Tate Modern

World's most visited modern art museum housed in a converted 1950s power station. Five floors showcase works by Picasso, Hockney, and contemporary installations, plus free views across the Thames from the 10th-floor viewing level. It sits in London's Borough, close to the other main sights. It ranks among London's most visited sights, and for good reason - most itineraries include it on day one. Tickets cost Free, special exhibitions £18-22 and 2-3 hours is enough to see everything without rushing.

Priority: High - do not skip Time needed: 2-3 hours Best for: free access to world Skip if: You dislike contemporary art, prefer traditional museums, or have limited time Cost: Free, special exhibitions £18-22

Walk through the vast industrial Turbine Hall with installations filling the space where generators once hummed, study Rothko's color field paintings in dedicated rooms, and look across the Thames to St Paul's Cathedral from the 10th-floor panoramic windows.

Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible with lifts to all floors, mobility equipment available at information desk

Free access to strong modern art plus one of London's best free viewpoints. That puts it near the top of any London visit, and it deserves the spot. Combine it with Tower of London and Borough Market - they are close enough to walk between and together make the strongest half-day in London. Afternoon tends to work best here.

Skip if: You dislike contemporary art, prefer traditional museums, or have limited time

• Free 45-minute highlights tours daily at 11:00, 14:00, 15:00.
• Level 10 viewing gallery offers free panoramic views.
• Turbine Hall installations change every 6 months.

Insider tip: The Blavatnik Building's upper floors are often empty while everyone crowds the main Turbine Hall

Turbine Hall allows photography, most galleries permit non-flash photos, Thames views striking at golden hour