If you're flying to London for a cruise, there are many things you can see besides the stereotypical and crowded places.
The first time I went to London, I got caught in crowds trying to see Parliament, Big Ben, and Buckingham Palace. I took my photos and then came back home tired and with photos of strangers in my shot.
On my next trip to London before I took a cruise, I was determined not to make the same mistake. I asked friends that moved to England what they think is worth seeing that is special and not as well known.
Here are the 6 things you should see in London that aren't so obvious.
Covent Garden
You can walk to Covent Garden neighborhood from Piccadilly-Circus station, and it's a very pretty place to explore. It's best known for their Piazza.
There's lots of shopping among the colorful buildings, such as crafts, jewelry and more. I found the vendors were locals, and not mega brands that you would find in Soho.
It feels like it's in the hub of the West End.
I also stopped to see street performers while walking around. It varies, but there are jugglers and classical music players. You should expect to tip them if you stop to watch, but they are excellent and it's fun.
I think Convent Garden has a lot of charm. Unlike the usual tourist areas, I like the mix of street performers, restaurants, and boutique shops. Plus, it's a very lively area.
See a game at London Stadium
You could see a football match, concert, or special event in London Stadium, and it's a good break from walking around.
The stadium was built for the 2012 Olympic Games.
West Ham United plays football (soccer) between the months of March to November, and it's what everyone does when there's a match.
Check the schedule a few months before your visit to book it.
Sky Garden
The Sky Garden is something else very different, and I want to go back on my next visit.
It's a domed ceiling greenhouse that has bars, a brasserie and a restaurant. You can see 360-degree views of London’s business district, and it's the best way to see London without wasting time at the London Eye.
It's free to visit Sky Garden, but you need a ticket to enter. You can book admission online, but it does sell out quickly.
London's Little Venice
The canal waterway and broad tree-lined streets of Little Venice is such a cute area.
You can find it in the residential neighborhood of Maida Vale. The canal is filled with boats and is one of the few parts of London that wasn't destroyed in World War 2, so the Georgian buildings remain.
This is a really nice, calm, and beautiful spots in London. It's a good place to take photos, and then stop by one of the restaurants or theaters.
The best part of going here is it's an escape from the busy city. Unlike the Tower of London or Buckingham Palace, Little Venice has a peaceful atmosphere, which is perfect for a peaceful boat ride or walk.
Borough Market
I love to try foods when I travel, and there are a lot of choices in Borough Market.
This is London's oldest food exchanges where you will find food from around the world, such as cheese, fish, bread, fruits, and vegetables. The market here began in the 12th century.
I think it's a waste to come to a city like London and eat at touristy restaurants. Borough Market has so much produce and international foods to try.
The Victorian railway arches are pretty and the whole area feels more authentic than the more commercialized areas of London.
The market is open everyday except for Sunday.
Shopping in Camden Passage
If you want to shop, I recommend going to Camden Passage where you will find many independent stores.
Hidden in the Islington area, this street has market stalls you can shop at. It really feels like a quaint village, and a place where I feel like I am in the real London.
It's best known for antiques and vintage clothing. But you'll also find many new items for sale, including clothes.
