As much as we love Amsterdam, sometimes a change of scenery is exactly what you need to break up the routine. No-one looks forward to airport chaos – so why not start your trip as you mean to go on, and enjoy a stress-free journey on the Eurostar? In just four hours, you can travel from Amsterdam Centraal into the heart of London. What’s more, once you arrive you can enjoy 2 FOR 1 entry at selected exhibitions across some of the city’s most iconic museums .
If your city break is a spontaneous one, there could be even more savings on the cards. Eurostar Snap offers up to 50% off on last-minute tickets, meaning it’s possible to head to London as soon as this week. Simply choose your travel dates and a time window, and Eurostar assigns your exact departure 48 hours before travel – with savings of up to 50%* while maintaining the full on board experience. To save you even more time and money, we’ve rounded up the best budget friendly things to do in London once you’ve hopped off the Eurostar!
Book your Eurostar trip now and explore these London activities.
1. Immerse Yourself in World Class Art and Culture
London is a dream destination for museum lovers. With a Eurostar ticket, you can access 2 FOR 1 entry to selected exhibitions at some of the city’s most iconic museums. Visit the home of modern art at the Tate Modern, explore contemporary works at the Moco Museum, admire masterpieces at the National Gallery, or dive into innovation at the Science Museum. There truly is something for everyone.
2. Eat your way through the food markets
There’s no shortage of great food spots in London – but finding the best food on a budget can be tough – that’s why food markets are a great way to explore a city’s culinary scene for less. Borough Market, located in Southwark is one of the city’s largest and oldest food markets, hosting traders from across Britain and around the world. If you like your food markets in a unique setting, other options include Mercato Mayfair, housed inside a beautifully restored church. Or for a buzzy weekend vibe, head to Broadway Market in East London on a Saturday when the street comes alive with delicious street food and artisan stalls.
3. Discover Vintage Treasures on Brick Lane
If you’re looking to score a bargain, shop sustainably, and get one of a kind finds, Brick Lane is London’s hub for second-hand fashion. Browse iconic vintage stores such as Rokit London, as well as newer favourites sprinkled along the road including Attagirl, Crabi, Serotonin and more. On weekends, the street transforms into a bustling market – a perfect place to hunt for unique souvenirs.
4. Spot Street Art in East London
Shoreditch is London’s street art hotspot, where simply walking the neighbourhood feels like stepping into a free, open-air gallery. Walls and alleyways are covered in huge murals or quick tags, with new pieces appearing all the time. For a glimpse of something truly iconic, head to Rivington Street, where you can still spot a genuine Banksy.
5. Admire London from above
One of the best ways to experience London’s iconic skyline is from above, and the city’s not short on great rooftop options. Sky Garden, London’s highest public garden offering 360 views of the city skyline – and tickets are free if you book before you get there. You can also see the views from the tallest building in the City of London at Horizon 22’s free public viewing gallery. If you’re in town on a day when the weather is nice, watch the sun set over the skyline from a slightly lower vantage point at the top of Primrose Hill.
6. Embrace nature at London’s Iconic Parks
London might be a major city, but that doesn’t mean it’s short on green space. One of the city’s greatest free luxuries is its parks. You can take a wander through Hyde Park or rent a deck chair at the Serpentine and watch the pedalos go by. If you want to really feel at one with nature, head to Richmond Park, where you might spot a few deer wandering around. Need an option for South East London? Try out Greenwich Park, it’s one of the largest single green spaces in the city.
7. Explore the famous West End
If you’re a theatre enthusiast, a trip to the West End is a must. Even though show tickets can be pricey, you can find great deals at the Official London Theatre ticket booth in Leicester Square, which offers last minute discounts on some of the biggest productions. Even if you don’t get a show ticket, the area is still worth exploring. Wander through Soho’s lively streets, browse the shops of Oxford Street, visit Covent Gardens markets and performers or sample the incredible food in Chinatown.
*Time slots are before or after 13:00 if you are travelling from London or from 14:00 from any other station (excluding German stations)
**Get up to 50% discount off the public price of a Standard ticket 7 days before departure.
