National Gallery, London (must see)

If you’ve ever even squinted at a painting and thought, “Huh, that’s nice,” then the National Gallery deserves a prime spot on your London to-do list. It’s not just any gallery—it’s a global heavyweight, housing over 2,300 works from the who’s who of art history: Michelangelo, Leonardo, Turner, Monet, van Gogh, Picasso... you get the idea. Step through its stately portico overlooking Trafalgar Square, and you’ll tumble straight into centuries of artistic genius.

Now, if you hang a sharp left at the entrance, you’ll find the Sainsbury Wing. It’s modern, it’s moody, and it’s medieval—perfect for lovers of halos, tempera, and crowds that don’t jostle quite as much.

Don’t be surprised if a “quick pop-in” turns into an all-day affair. Must-sees include Holbein’s The Ambassadors, complete with a gloriously skewed skull (visible only if you stand just right and maybe squint like you mean it). Make sure not to miss van Eyck’s Arnolfini Portrait, where a couple holds hands while a mysterious mirror photobombs from the background, or da Vinci’s Virgin of the Rocks, dripping with drama and Renaissance elegance. And of course, in Turner’s Rain, Steam, and Speed, check out the train, which is not the only thing speeding—you’ll need sharp eyes to spot a hare bolting for dear life.

The Gallery also hosts special exhibitions that are buzzy enough to make even the Mona Lisa smirk. These usually require a ticket and advance booking, but the permanent collection is gloriously free, always. You can join a guided tour, listen to a curator wax lyrical, or just wander with your own thoughts and an audio guide.

Tip:
If at some point, your stomach starts growling louder than the gallery’s whisper policy allows, head to the in-house restaurant. They serve Colchester native oysters and artful sandwiches, not to mention themed afternoon teas with more traditional choices like cakes that change with the exhibits. As for the scones, they are a permanent fixture. Afternoon tea is served daily, no reservation needed—just bring your appetite and maybe a friend who knows the difference between Impressionism and Expressionism.

Long story short: go for the art, stay for the scones.