Is the UK worth visiting, Is it easy or difficult to travel to the UK on your own? Do you need a visa to go to the UK? How much does it cost to travel to the UK? Let’s read The ULTIMATE travel guide to the UK: Top attractions, Costs, Tips & MORE in this article.
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The foggy land, the UK, always has a special attraction for all travel enthusiasts. When mentioning this country, people often think of the wonderful blend of modern urban areas, magnificent palaces and castles and the idyllic beauty of ancient villages. With a huge cultural history, diverse natural landscapes and a unique culture, the UK has been attracting millions of tourists from all over the world.
Let’s start the journey with us to discover the legendary beauty and timeless charm of this country!
Travel guide to the UK: About the UK
The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the UK, is a country located in Northwestern Europe. This country includes the lands: England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. As the 9th largest island nation and 22nd most populous in the world, the UK was once the center of a vast empire, with profound influence on the globe. Today, the UK remains a power with a unique blend of ancient beauty and modernity.
Eurail Global Pass – 33 European Countries
The UK boasts enchanting natural beauty. It is famous for its poetic lakes, along with rolling hills and ancient villages in Wales. Meanwhile, Scotland stands out with the wild beauty of vast plateaus and spectacular fjords. It is the blend of scenic beauty and natural wonders that has turned the UK into an attractive destination for tourists from all over the world.
How to Apply for a UK Tourist Visa
Thames River Sightseeing and Dining Cruises London
To apply for a UK tourist visa, Vietnamese citizens need to prepare complete documents, follow the correct procedures and understand the regulations on time limits. Here are some general tips to help you prepare best.
Visa Types and Validity Period
See London By Night Evening Sightseeing Tour
The UK Standard Visitor Visa for Vietnamese people is usually valid for 6 months and allows multiple entries. However, if you have a good travel history and frequent travel needs, you can apply for a long-term visa of 2 years, 5 years or 10 years.
Regardless of the visa duration, you are only allowed to stay for a maximum of 6 months each time you enter the country. You need to comply with this stay period and return to Vietnam on time, otherwise it will affect your next entries and future visa applications.
Prepare Visa Application Documents
Warwick Castle, Shakespeare’s England, Oxford, and The Cotswolds Tour
A strong application is the key factor to increase the visa approval rate. Required documents include:
- Personal records: Original passport (valid for at least 6 months), CCCD, household registration book, birth certificate, marriage certificate (if any).
- Work records: Labor contract, leave application, salary statement (for employees); business license, tax report (for business owners); student/student certificate (if studying).
- Financial records: Savings book (minimum 200 million VND) and balance confirmation, personal bank account statement for the last 3-6 months. Other documents proving assets such as pink book, vehicle registration… should also be added.
- Travel itinerary: Round-trip air ticket, hotel reservation confirmation and detailed travel itinerary. All documents not in English must be notarized.
Visa Application Process
After preparing all documents, you will follow these steps:
- Fill out the application online: Visit the official website of the British Government, fill out the visa application form in English.
- Payment and appointment: Pay the visa fee online and make an appointment to submit the application, take biometrics at the VFS Global Application Center in Hanoi, Da Nang or Ho Chi Minh City.
- Submit the application: Go to VFS Global on time to submit the prepared documents, take photos and fingerprints.
- Wait for the result: The visa processing time is usually about 3 weeks. You will receive your passport and results by post or pick them up in person.
Afternoon Tea with Panoramic Bus Tour of London
Note: To increase the chance of being granted a visa, you need to demonstrate a clear purpose of your trip, have sufficient financial capacity and strong ties in Vietnam to convince the consular officer that you will return after the trip. In addition, a history of traveling to developed countries such as the US, Europe, Japan, and Korea is also a big plus in your profile.
Famous UK Tourist Attractions You Shouldn’t Miss
Immerse yourself in the glorious history and ancient beauty, the UK offers countless famous tourist destinations that you cannot miss.
Buckingham Palace, London
Notable for its stunning architecture and central London location, Buckingham Palace is the official residence and working office of the Monarch. Although not open all year round, visitors can still visit some areas such as the State Rooms in the summer. In addition, you should not miss the Changing of the Guard ceremony, an impressive traditional ceremony that takes place in front of the palace gates. Nearby St. James’s Park is also an ideal place for you to take a walk after your visit.
Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London
Royal Observatory Greenwich, London
Royal Observatory Greenwich Ticket
The Royal Observatory Greenwich is the location of the prime meridian (0 degrees longitude), the starting point of the GMT international standard time system and the boundary dividing the Earth into the Eastern and Western hemispheres. Today, the observatory has become an important museum and cultural center, displaying historical artifacts of astronomy and navigation. You can admire John Harrison’s marine chronometers, the inventions that helped determine longitude at sea.
Big Ben, London
St. Paul’s Cathedral and Tower of London Tour with Cruise
Located at the northern end of the Westminster Houses of Parliament, the Elizabeth Tower is one of the most famous symbols of the United Kingdom. Often referred to as Big Ben, a nickname originally given to the large bell inside the tower, the structure stands 96 metres high. Admiring the exquisite Gothic architecture and hearing the chimes of Big Ben is sure to be a memorable experience on your London exploration.
Travel guide to the UK: London Eye, London
Prominently located on the banks of the River Thames, the London Eye is a 135-metre-high Ferris wheel with 32 cabins, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of London. From here, you can admire many famous icons such as Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. At night, the wheel is lit up with brilliant LED lights, making it a romantic and impressive symbol of the city.
Warwick Castle, Warwickshire
Warwick Castle, built in 1068, is an architectural and historical icon of England. Once a strong fortress and home to a powerful aristocratic family, the castle has gone through many historical events. Today, visitors can tour the magnificent rooms, admire the collection of precious paintings and antiques, and watch historical reenactments, helping to clearly visualize the lavish life of the British aristocracy in the past.
Leeds Castle, Kent
Leeds Castle, Canterbury, Dover, & Greenwich River Day Tour and Boat Ride from London
Leeds Castle is located in the peaceful countryside of Kent, not far from Maidstone village. With a unique location on an island in the middle of a lake, the castle not only possesses magnificent architecture but also carries within it a glorious history, having been the residence of many kings and queens of England. Today, visitors coming here can not only admire the ancient beauty of the castle but also participate in activities such as hiking trails and rowing on the lake.
Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh
Edinburgh Castle Ticket with Guide
Edinburgh Castle is one of Scotland’s most iconic architectural landmarks. Situated atop Castle Rock, an extinct volcano, the castle is not only strategically located but has also witnessed many important events in Scotland’s history, from the Wars of Independence to the royal era. The castle is home to national treasures such as the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny.
Cotswolds Village, Gloucestershire
Villages of The Cotswolds Small Group Tour from London
Nestled in the countryside of the Cotswolds, the small villages here have a fairytale beauty, where time seems to stand still. Characterized by honey-colored limestone houses, built from local stone, villages such as Bourton-on-the-Water, Bibury or Stow-on-the-Wold attract visitors with their rustic and peaceful beauty. The space here is ideal for you to enjoy the fresh air of the English countryside.
Loch Ness, Scotland
Loch Ness & The Scottish Highlands Explorer Day Tour from Edinburgh
To experience Scotland, you cannot miss a tour of the mysterious Loch Ness. This is Scotland’s largest freshwater lake by volume, famous for the legend of the “Loch Ness monster”. You can take a boat to explore the lake, or stroll along the lake to admire the natural landscape. Besides, do not forget to visit the ruins of Urquhart Castle located on the shore of the lake, an important historical site and one of the largest castles in Scotland.
Canterbury Cathedral, Kent
Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, & Dover Tour from London
Canterbury Cathedral is an important architectural and religious heritage of England. Although the foundations date back to the 6th century, the current magnificent Gothic architecture was mainly built in the 12th century. Inside the church is an artistic space with stained glass windows and exquisite sculptures. This is not only a church but also a place where you can admire precious relics and ancient paintings, feel the sacredness of a building that has existed for centuries.
St. Paul’s Cathedral, London
St. Paul’s Cathedral Ticket in London
St. Paul’s Cathedral, located on Ludgate Hill, is an architectural and religious icon of London. The current structure was built in the late 17th century after the Great Fire of London in 1666. The church stands out with its impressive Baroque dome. Not only is it a tourist destination, St. Paul’s Cathedral is also the site of many important events in British history. This is truly a unique work of art, attracting visitors with its beauty and great historical significance.
Westminster Abbey, London
Westminster Abbey Ticket in London
You will enter a world of history and splendid architecture when you visit Westminster Abbey. This great Gothic structure has witnessed the coronation of kings and queens for nearly a millennium, and is also the final resting place of many outstanding British figures. Inside the abbey, you will be overwhelmed by the soaring ceilings and brilliant stained glass windows. You can fully feel the majesty and cultural heritage of the United Kingdom.
Melrose Abbey, Scotland
Located in the Scottish Borders, Melrose Abbey was built in 1136, with bold Gothic architecture, featuring intricately carved stone walls and intricate decorative details. This is where the heart of King Robert the Bruce, a national hero of Scotland, is said to be buried. You can admire the ancient beauty of the remaining ruins, stroll around the peaceful campus and learn about the tumultuous history of the abbey.
Emirates Stadium, London
Arsenal FC Emirates Stadium Tour
Famous as the home ground of Arsenal Football Club, Emirates Stadium is not only a sports facility but also a cultural icon. You can join behind-the-scenes tours, explore the dressing rooms, the tunnel to the pitch, and visit the Arsenal Museum to learn about the history of the club. Whether you’re an Arsenal fan or not, a visit to the Emirates Stadium is sure to be a memorable experience of the world of top football.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, Hertfordshire
If you’re a Harry Potter fan, you can’t miss the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London in Hertfordshire. This tour takes you behind the scenes of the series, where you’ll get to see classic sets like Hogwarts Great Hall and Diagon Alley. You’ll also get to explore props, costumes, and try the famous Butterbeer. This is a magical journey that will give you a better understanding of how magic is created on screen.
Madame Tussauds, London
When in London, don’t miss the chance to visit Madame Tussauds, where you can meet “celebrities” from all over the world. This wax museum is famous for its lifelike wax figures, from movie stars, singers, politicians to historical figures. This interactive entertainment experience offers a unique opportunity to step into the world of celebrities and create unforgettable memories.
SEA LIFE Aquarium, London
Sea Life London Aquarium Ticket
Located right next to the famous London Eye, SEA LIFE Aquarium London is home to over 500 marine species, from ferocious sharks, giant sea turtles, to tiny seahorses. You will walk through a glass tunnel under the ocean to see the underwater world in the most realistic way. The aquarium also has many interactive areas and feeding shows, providing a fun and educational experience for all ages.
Isle of Skye, Scotland
The Isle of Skye, the largest island in the Inner Hebrides, is famous for its majestic mountain scenery, impressive cliffs and lush valleys. You can explore the Old Man of Storr – a giant stone pillar standing tall in the sky, or stroll on winding trails to admire The Quiraing with its unique terrain. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Fairy Pools, crystal clear lakes and beautiful waterfalls.
Rosslyn Chapel, Edinburgh
Rosslyn Chapel, Borders & Glenkinchie Distillery Tour from Edinburgh
Rosslyn Chapel in Edinburgh, a mysterious architectural work from the 15th century, is famous for its extremely sophisticated sculptural details. This place attracts visitors by its mysterious beauty and legendary stories, especially about the “Apprentice’s Column”. After appearing in the novel “The Da Vinci Code”, Rosslyn Chapel has become even more famous and is a must-see destination for those who love to explore history and unsolved mysteries.
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, London
Royal Botanic Gardens Ticket in Kew Gardens
The world’s most famous botanical garden, London’s Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to over 50,000 species of plants, displayed in impressive glasshouses such as the Palm House and the Princess of Wales Glasshouse. Visitors can walk on the Treetop Walkway to get a bird’s-eye view of the garden, enjoy the green space and explore the diversity of the plant world.
Travel Tips for Travelling to the UK
The UK has a well-developed public transport system, allowing visitors to easily travel between major cities and the countryside. Whether you choose modern means such as trains or traditional options such as buses, you can explore everywhere conveniently. For a smooth independent travel, it is extremely important to understand the means of transport and how to use them.
Main Means of Transport
Trains: This is the fastest and most efficient way to travel between major cities. National Rail’s rail network connects the whole country. To save money, you can buy a UK Rail Pass or book tickets online in advance to get the best price.
Buses: Buses are an economical option for travelling within the city and to smaller towns and villages. You can use national bus companies such as National Express or local companies.
Underground: The underground system (also known as the Tube) is the most popular way to travel within London and some other major cities. This is a quick way to travel, avoiding traffic jams.
London Car Rental with Driver: Stonehenge/Bath/Oxford/Cambridge
Taxi: Suitable for short trips, especially at night or when carrying a lot of luggage. You can easily call a taxi on the street or by phone.
Self-driving car: Self-driving car offers great flexibility, helping you explore the countryside as you wish. However, remember that the British drive on the left side of the road.
Getting around London
To use public transport in London, you need to buy a card/ticket. Popular types of tickets include:
Single ticket: Suitable for those who travel less, only use a few times a day.
Oyster card: Debit card, can be used for many means of transport and can be topped up as needed. Oyster Card offers many benefits such as discounted fares compared to single tickets, unlimited travel within a day or a week for a certain fee.
London Pass: A travel card that integrates travel tickets and tickets to visit many famous tourist attractions in the city. The London Pass helps you save money and travel time, especially suitable for those who want to explore many places in a short time.
In addition, some places also accept direct payment by Visa or Mastercard.
What to buy in the UK?
We have released a detailed article on what to buy in England and the UK, you can read it here: What to buy in England? — Top 25+ souvenirs & best things to buy in England.
Traveling to the UK is not just a destination, but also a true adventure in history, culture and nature. From the historic streets of London, from ancient castles to bustling modern cities, the foggy island always brings you unique and memorable experiences.
For a cost-effective and convenient trip to the UK, you can book Klook services in advance. This is one of the online booking platforms that offers a wide range of activities, attractions, train tickets and other services in hundreds of destinations around the world, including the UK.
Love the UK? Travel to the UK right now!
Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to London you can refer to
- Shared London Airports (LHR, LGW, STN, LTN, LCY) Transfers to/from Central London
- Private London Heathrow Airport (LHR) Transfers for London
- Tower of London Ticket
- London Pass with 1 Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
- London Eye Ticket
- Madame Tussauds London Ticket
- Westminster Abbey Ticket
- London Visitor Oyster Card
- London Travelcard
- London Explorer Pass
- London Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tours (Open-Top)
Are you looking for more top things to do in London: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here. And Where should I go in London? — 21 top famous places to go, see & best places to visit in London.
