London named 'best destination in Europe' in TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Awards 2024

London has retained its top spot as Europe’s top travel destination, according to Tripadvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Awards 2024.  

The capital has been praised for its energy and its historic sites in the newest list, beating out the likes of Rome and Paris for the first-place position.  

The locations on the list are places that received a high volume of "above-and-beyond scores" for their hotels, restaurants and things to do from Tripadvisor’s community over a 12-month period.  

The next UK destination on the list is Edinburgh at number 12, whilst other large UK cities like Manchester, Leeds and Birmingham have failed to crack the top 25. 

Naming London the winner, Tripadvisor said: “From Shoreditch’s swaggering style to Camden’s punky vibe and chic Portobello Road, London is many worlds in one. The city’s energy means that no two days are the same. 

“Explore royal or historic sites, tick off landmarks from your bucket list, eat and drink in exclusive Michelin-starred restaurants, enjoy a pint in a traditional pub, or get lost down winding cobbled streets and see what you stumble across – when it comes to London, the possibilities are endless. 

“Last year saw a resurgence of people taking holidays to all corners of the globe and Tripadvisor research indicates that travel is set to see sustained momentum in 2024. Tripadvisor data reveals more than half (62%) of Brits are planning one-two trips, and one third (31%) are planning three-four, with 83% of British holidaymakers planning to spend the same, if not more, on travel this year.”  

Sarah Firshein, head of Editorial at Tripadvisor, said: “With 90% of Brits planning to travel as much, if not more, than last year, enthusiasm is high and this year’s list of Travellers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best Destinations — totaling a whopping 221 destinations — really reflects that excitement.” 

London’s essential locations to visit listed on Tripadvisor’s website include the Tower of London, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and St Paul’s Cathedral.  

Cheaper locations are further added by Tripadvisor that are not designed to break the bank, including The National Gallery and the British Museum.