The modern city with a traditional soul, London is one of the most fascinating - and best-value - destinations. As with the other top-ranking European cities, there is a heady mix of old and new. The ancient Tower of London, Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace and other royal residences stand beside modern edifices such as City Hall, the Gherkin and Shard London Bridge. Add in the capital's parks and masterpiece-stuffed museums and galleries (most of which are free to visit) and it's little wonder why millions of tourists book flights to London each year.
In 2011 all eyes were on London for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's nuptials. The oohs, aahs and rousing renditions of "God Save the Queen" kicked off what is set to be an exciting couple of years for the capital.
This year, London will host the Olympic Games, we'll mark Charles Dickens's 200th birthday and we'll rejoice in Queen Elizabeth's Diamond Jubilee with a 1,000-boat flotilla on the Thames, jolly street parties and an extra bank holiday.
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