Victoria and Albert Museum

The palatial Victoria & Albert Museum, named in honor of the 19th century royal couple, is known more commonly in its shortened form—the V&A. Located in South Kensington, this free museum is a compendium of applied art across a number of genres, disciplines, and time periods. The collections are arranged by categories, such as architecture, textiles, furniture, drawings, jewelry, and so on, making it slightly easier to navigate this mammoth museum. Among the permanent collections, the V&A also offers diverse temporary exhibitions and free guided tours, along with free weekly public lectures. Keep in mind, special exhibits require ticket purchase.

Recent travelers praise the variety and sheer enormity of the art offered here. One TripAdvisor user says, "The musem is huge—you'd never get round it in a day!" If you've only set aside a few hours to tour the museum, consider printing off a building map (available online) before you go, or buy one at the information desk upon arrival. Recent travelers attest a map will help you plan a route of the collections you'd like to see and maximize your visit. The V&A is open Saturday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 5:45 p.m., and on Fridays from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. The museum is a five-minute walk from the South Kensington Tube stop.