Trafalgar Square City Info

Things to do

Trafalgar Sq, London » City Info » Travel Tips

Trafalgar Square is a popular tourist hotspot and over 15 million tourists visit this public square every year. It is among the ten most visited tourist attractions in London and is an epicentre for various festivities.

Trafalgar Square's central position makes it easily accessible by car, tube or bus. Charing Cross (Bakerloo and Northern lines) is the closest tube station to Trafalgar Square, with an entrance-and-exit on Trafalgar Square. Other stations like Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly lines), Piccadilly Circus (Bakerloo and Piccadilly lines) and Embankment (Bakerloo, Northern, district and Circle lines) are within a few minutes of walking distance. Taking the bus or mainline rail station are alternative options.

When to Travel

When to Travel

What makes Trafalgar Square truly special is that it hosts various events, performances and celebrations throughout the year. The best time to visit the square would be around Christmas. You'd love the massive 20-metre Norway spruce at the square in the backdrop of carolling and Christmas festivities. The annual firework event for New Year's Eve at the square is yet another not-to-be-missed event. There are numerous events like St. Patrick's Day and the Pride in London Parade, making the square a lively place to visit.

Photo Credit: Theworldgymnast1/CC BY-SA 4.0

Safety

The city is relatively safe; however, some areas, especially tourist hotspots, can be unsafe. Here are some simple precautions that can ensure a safe stay:

  • Keep your belongings always out of sight at bars and restaurants and in taxis/cars.
  • Avoid accepting food or drinks from strangers.
  • Avoid leaving your belongings unattended.
  • Avoid carrying too much cash.
  • Only use taxis or registered minicabs.
  • Avoid walking alone at night.
  • Stay alert on crowded Tube (subway) or buses.

Tipping

It is customary to leave around 10% of the bill as a tip when eating out. Some restaurants add on service charges (around 12.5%) in a bill, so check the bill and then decide. Many cafes have a tip jar on the counter, where you can give a tip if you wish to.

In London, people often tip porters, tour guides. It is polite to round up your taxi fare to the nearest pound.