Few cities combine tradition and modernity as well as London. Its diversity, enormous size, and endless cultural destinations make it impossible to define. It would take many days to get close to seeing all of London’s museums, but we recommend starting with the classics. For contemporary art, head to the Barbican Centre and the Tate Modern. For more history, the Victoria and Albert and the British Museum cannot be missed. London’s restaurant scene demonstrates the city’s fusion of cultures. Delight in the old school at Soho’s Andrew Edmunds, a romantic gastropub. Have a speedy round of tapas at Barrafina. Delight in the 1950s sports club decor at Gymkhana, a Michelin-starred Indian restaurant in Mayfair. We find the city to be most enjoyable when reserving a good dose of leisure time. Visit bookstores like John Sandoe and Judd Books, get lost in any one of the city’s countless parks, and stroll through markets like Spitalfields and Portobello Road. Our favorite hotels also add to London’s charm—consider Covent Garden and the Portobello Hotel if you prefer a smaller size, or Claridge’s for something more grand.