Rick Steves' London 2012

You can count on Rick Steves to tell you what you really need to know when traveling in London.

With the self-guided tours in this book, you’ll explore historic Big Ben, bustling Trafalgar Square, and the Tower of London—home of the crown jewels. Learn how to save time and money on the Tube, and how to avoid the mobs at the Changing of the Guard. Investigate London’s world-class museums, where you can trace Western civilization from the Magna Carta and Shakespeare to Van Gogh and Picasso. Venture into Soho’s theater district for a glitzy musical or a delicious Indian dinner. End a great day at a neighborhood pub, sharing a pint and a chat with a friendly local.

Rick’s candid, humorous advice will guide you to good-value hotels and restaurants in delightful London neighborhoods. You’ll learn how to get around by bus and on the Tube, and which sights are worth your time and money. More than just reviews and directions, a Rick Steves guidebook is a tour guide in your pocket.

 (11 customer reviews)

I just returned from a trip to London, and this book was extremely helpful. I started reading it more than a month before traveling. Of course it discusses parts of the city to visit, and specific restaurants and hotels - and it does that very well, and very thoroughly. But it also is an excellent resource in terms of educating about cultural issues - differences in habits (e.g., how the Brits drink their beer) and glossary of terms that Brits use that are different from how Americans use them. It also gave extremely helpful information about traveling, such as how to use cash, issues with credit cards, using the Tube, getting around and from the airport, etc. It was an extremely helpful resource.

Rick Steve's travel books are worth every penny! His books seem very well-researched and are very easy to navigate -- this London edition is no exception. Chock full of information without being overwhelming. I appreciate his reviews of places to eat and stay the most -- he even goes so far to say "speak with so and so at this location for great service" or "this person at this place is an English speaking owner", even sometimes giving a few word history on why/how the establishment was opened. Very personable. Food suggestions at restaurants/eateries and very honest details/tips on the sleeping arrangements at lodging establishments. I really enjoy his detailed "walks". He has a starting point and directs you exactly which direction to walk/turn, giving a very detailed history of the sites as you go. Also really helpful hints on when the best time to visit high traffic locations.

I have used the Rick Steve's guides before and this one has the same great updated information on visiting the many London sights. I really liked the information on understanding tipping and other local cultural knowledge. This information will streamline my stay in London and surrounding areas, help me save money, and have less stress. Thanks Rick.