National Gallery

The National Gallery, set on Trafalgar Square, houses one of the world’s finest collections of Western European painting, free to enter. Highlights span from medieval altarpieces to masterpieces by Van Eyck, Botticelli, Turner, Velázquez, Monet, and Van Gogh. Clear thematic rooms, regular temporary exhibitions, and insightful labels make it easy to navigate, even for first-time visitors. Its compact layout allows both quick highlights and deeper exploration. Come for the art, stay for the views over the square and the well-run amenities, including a bookshop and cafés. Ideal for art lovers and curious newcomers alike.