London Eye, London (must see)

This enormous Ferris wheel, towering above London and situated across from Big Ben, ranks among the world's tallest observation wheels and serves as London's equivalent to the Eiffel Tower; a captivating sight, whether you choose to take a ride or simply admire from afar. Its design resembles that of a colossal bicycle wheel and represents a collaborative effort from across Europe, featuring British steel and Dutch engineering, along with mechanical components from German, French, Czech and Italian sources. Remarkably eco-friendly, it operates with exceptional efficiency and near-silence.

Each of its 32 air-conditioned capsules, representing London's boroughs, accommodates up to 28 people for a 30-minute rotation (one full circuit). From the pinnacle of this 443-foot-high wheel—the city's second-highest public vantage point—even Big Ben appears small.

Originally constructed to celebrate the new millennium, the London Eye has since become a permanent fixture on the city's skyline, inspiring numerous other cities to construct their own observation wheels.

Why You Should Visit:
Excellent means to gain a broader perspective of the city, particularly if it's your first visit. You'll revel in great vistas, with the Shard and London Bridge on one side, and Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster on the other, and you can choose to either stand or sit.

Tip:
The same company operates the other two attractions within the same complex, Madame Tussauds Waxworks and the London Dungeon. If you anticipate visiting more than one of these, consider purchasing a combo-ticket to save money. Booking online in advance is always more cost-effective—and it saves you time by allowing you to skip the regular line and proceed directly to the ticket holders' line.