Greater London, which is made up of 32 boroughs, covers an area of 609 square miles (1,579 kilometers square). The city was founded on the north bank of the Thames and there was only one bridge, London Bridge, for many centuries. As such, the main focus of the city was on the north side of the Thames. Today, London can be divided into five major areas: West London, Central London, East London, North London, and South London. West London is most attractive to tourists, due to its popular shopping and entertainment. Trafalgar Square, one of the most outstanding landmarks, and Oxford Street, one of the best known shopping streets in the world, are located here.
In Central London, you will find Westminster, home to world famous royal castles and parks. Also found here are the areas of Soho and Covent Garden, some of the trendiest parts of the city.
Most of London famous markets are located in East London, including the Columbia Road Flower Market, Spitalfields Market, Brick Lane Market and Petticoat Lane Market. The area is considered the most cosmopolitan area of the city, which include the central business district of Canary Wharf.
Crossing the River Thames to North London is not a barrier but an invitation. The newly built Millennium Bridge and Tate Modern are here, as well as Southwark, one of London's darkest secrets.
You most likely won't be staying in South London, but it is home to internationally known arts and performance venues and museums.
