Londonis known for its incredible diversity - from bustling markets to stylish department stores, fine restaurants to affordable world cuisine, state-of-the-art concert venues to intimate basement gigs, and that's not mentioning the world-class sights that should be on every visitor's hitlist or the myriad parks and green spaces that are never far away.

The city is loosely divided into a series of areas or villages. From The City to the east, across to Notting Hill Gate in the west, roughly defines Central London. Each area has its own distinct atmosphere. As you explore the capital, take the time to savour and contrast this diversity (...)

Londonis known for its incredible diversity - from bustling markets to stylish department stores, fine restaurants to affordable world cuisine, state-of-the-art concert venues to intimate basement gigs, and that's not mentioning the world-class sights that should be on every visitor's hitlist or the myriad parks and green spaces that are never far away.

The city is loosely divided into a series of areas or villages. From The City to the east, across to Notting Hill Gate in the west, roughly defines Central London. Each area has its own distinct atmosphere. As you explore the capital, take the time to savour and contrast this diversity - the hectic clamour of downtown Soho, the buzz and delicious aromas of Chinatown, the crowds and culture of Covent Garden, the grand shopping destination of the West End, the grandeur of the mainly residential Belgravia, the bustle of Waterloo, the aura of political power in Westminster, the calm streets of chic Marylebone, the industry of the City and the sophistication of Mayfair.

Top 10 sights:

ST PAUL'SCATHEDRAL

Sir Christopher Wren's masterpiece still dominates the Londonskyline and is an unmissable historical landmark.

MadameTussauds

The internationally renowned waxwork collection continues to draw the crowds. It's not just the tourists who can enjoy it, but also the eminent and

the celebrities keen to be immortalised. Book online to avoid queueing.

WESTMINSTER ABBEY

This old church on Parliament Square has been the site for almost every coronation and royal burial since the time of William the Conqueror.

CHANGING OFTHE GUARD

Catch the Household Cavalry at the Horse Guards building on Whitehall (the guard changes: Mon-Sat 11am, Sun 10am); and the foot guards at Buckingham Palace (May-August 11.30am daily, September-April alternate days). The ceremony doesn't go ahead in rain.

Victoria and Albert Museum

This magnificent Victorian building is home to one of the best collections of applied arts in the world. It ranges from Indian art to Constables, to high fashion dresses to sculpture. There is something for everyone, and even the children can follow the "Trails for Kids".

British Museum

A Neo-Classical building built in the 1840s. There is so much to see: the Egyptian mummies, the Elgin marbles and the glassroofed Great Court.

National Gallery

One of the great collections of the world, with the best in Western European art. Plan two visits at least to take in such a wealth of masterpieces.

HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT

The splendid Victorian building, home to Big Ben, is where politicians debate big issues. To watch, join the queue outside and go through security (Mon-Thur, some Fridays).

Tower of London

The Tower is 900 years old. Enjoy the Crown Jewels and Beefeaters, and thrill the kids with stories of beheadings.

London Eye

The London Eye, the world's largest ferris wheel, offers breathtaking views of Londonwhatever the weather, night or day. All the variety and activity of Londonlies beneath you as you take in the