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With its history, art and architecture, and all things royal, plus Harry Potter, the city of London is teeming with fun things to do on vacation.

The challenge can be narrowing down all that good stuff to a manageable list of absolute must-sees — whether you’re visiting on your own, as a couple, or with friends or family.

You could have a brilliant time just focusing on bucket-list basics, like Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey. Or you could take in the sights while strolling the city’s famous streets (or meandering off the beaten path).

Why not do a little bit of everything? Thanks to loads of intel from seasoned travelers about the best things to do in London, here is a list of can’t-miss adventures. You’ll also learn tips and tricks for making your vacation as smooth and affordable as possible.

Best Times to Go to London

The weather can be unpredictable in London — just as it is in the U.S. — but the summer months, June to August, are typically the warmest and sunniest. If you’re opting for summer travel, though, it can also be the most crowded time to visit, with kids out of school and lots of sporting events, festivals, and concerts scheduled. That also usually means that prices may be higher.

Spring and fall are trickier weatherwise, but less crowded. And though it’s colder and wetter in the winter months, visiting London at Christmas time could be a dream-come-true for Dickens fans. Just be aware that many attractions are closed around the major holidays.

Bad Times to Go to London

January and February can be gloomy and gray in London, there are fewer events, and the city is a bit quieter at this time of year. If you dream of shopping for antique treasures at Portobello Road in T-shirt weather, this is not going to be ideal for you.

But lodging prices may be lower, so this can be a good way to save on hotels. Also, lines at popular attractions will likely be shorter, and there’s still plenty to see.

Average Cost of a London Vacation

The cost of a London vacation can vary significantly, depending on how long you stay, when and where you stay, and other factors. But travel sites generally put the average cost of a weeklong trip at about $1,000 to $2,500 for an individual and $1,700 to $4,000 for a couple, not including airfare. (If you’re bringing your kids or traveling with pets, the cost could be significantly more.)

Here are just a few of the costs you may want to consider when you’re budgeting for your trip (and when you’re figuring out how to make the most of your credit card rewards):

Getting There

Roundtrip airfare to London can average from about $600 to $1,200, based on where you’re flying from and when you’re traveling. (Don’t forget to look at how credit card travel insurance works, just in case your flight is canceled, your luggage gets lost, or some other mishap occurs.)

Accommodations

If you’re willing to stay at a budget hotel or a hotel outside the city, you may be able to save some serious money in this category. Otherwise, you can expect to pay about $150 to $250 (or more) per night for a mid-range to luxury hotel in London.

Dining

The average spend per person for food in London can range from $25 to $45 per day. But your tab may go up or down (just like at home) based on how often you dine out, the pubs and restaurants you choose, and if, say, you like a nice bottle of wine with your dinner. A pub meal, for example, can cost less than $15, while a three-course meal in a nice restaurant might be $50 or more per person.

Sightseeing

There are many free things to do in London, including many of the top museums and attractions. Tickets for other attractions typically cost $35 or less for an adult.

Transportation

Depending on where your hotel is, you may be able to walk to many attractions in London. If your destination is farther out, you can get one of London’s famous black cabs, or take the Tube (the subway), or a bus. Black cabs are metered, and the minimum fare is $3.93. Fares may be higher for rides to and from Heathrow, and on Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve.

Bus fares vary based on the rider’s age: An adult “hopper fare” allows passengers to make as many changes as they want in an hour for $2.15; the daily cap is $6.45 and the weekly cap is $30.33. The cost of a ride on the Tube will depend on where you’re going. Taking public transportation can be an affordable way to get from one neighborhood to another and can also make you feel like a real Londoner.

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10 Fun Must-Dos in London

It would be impossible to squeeze all of the best things to do in London into a single visit. That said, regardless of how long you have to spend in the city, there are amazing attractions that will make incredible memories.

To help get you started, consider these 10 fun things to do in London, culled from dozens of travel sites, blogs, and “best of” lists.

1. Explore the Tower of London

Starting your vacation with the Tower of London can help you get a real feel for London’s grand history. Inside, you’ll find the Crown Jewels, an extensive armory, and amazing architecture. And, of course, you’ll want to check out the Tower Green, where several members of the upper class were executed, including three former queens. You can learn their stories and more with a self-guided tour. Don’t forget to look for the resident ravens. HRP.org.uk/tower-of-london/visit/#gs.t79gau

2. Catch the Changing the Guard Ceremony at Buckingham Palace

The iconic Changing the Guard ceremony takes place at 10:45am every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday outside Buckingham Palace, and lasts about 45 minutes. It’s very popular, so you’ll want to arrive early. It’s also free, so it’s a good way that families can afford to travel and see amazing things without breaking the bank.

King Charles and Queen Consort Camilla currently reside at Clarence House, a short walk away, but the palace remains the center of operations, so keep an eye out if you hope to spot a royal. Want to go inside? Parts of the palace are open to the public on select dates in winter and spring and for several weeks during the summer.
RCT.uk/visit/buckingham-palace

3. Tour the Harry Potter Movie Sets

If you’re a die-hard Harry Potter fan, “The Making of Harry Potter” tour at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London will likely be a worthwhile stop on your itinerary. You’ll get to visit the sets, see the props and costumes, and learn more about how the movies were made. The tour is in Leavesden, England, which is about 20 miles from central London, so you may want to rent a car or travel by bus, the Tube, or taxi. (To be sure you can get tickets, book in advance.) WBStudiotour.co.uk/

4. Visit the Churchill War Rooms

Another of the top things to do in London: Visit the Churchill War Rooms. World War II buffs and anyone interested in history can get an up-close look at the underground nerve center where British leaders met to plan an Allied victory. Then it’s on to the extensive and interactive Churchill Museum for more exhibits and information about the intriguing Prime Minister himself. IWM.org.uk/visits/churchill-war-rooms

5. Sip Afternoon Tea at Sketch London

If your goal is to enjoy afternoon tea, why not do it in style in The Gallery at Sketch? It’s a quirky yet elegant venue located in an old Georgetown townhouse in London’s chic Mayfair district. Afternoon tea is a splurge (75 pounds for adults), but you’ll feast on finger sandwiches, scones, passionfruit and mango tarts, and have the opportunity to pick your pot from a dozen or more tea varieties. Afterward, you can do some shopping, or wander down the road to people-watch at the historic Piccadilly Circus. Sketch.london/the-gallery/

6. See the Sights from the London Eye

For a truly unique view of the city, you can climb into one of the glass pods of the London Eye (like a gigantic enclosed ferris wheel) and rise 443 feet above the Thames River. The ride lasts 30 minutes, so you’ll have plenty of time to spot Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and other landmarks. Time it right, and you could see the sunset or the lights of the city at night. This can be a fun and memorable thing to do in London with kids. LondonEye.com/tickets-and-prices/

7. Take a Day Trip to Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle, the historic home of the British monarchy, is open to the public from Thursday to Sunday year-round, so visitors can see its magnificent rooms and royal treasures. While you’re there, you may also want to visit St. George’s Chapel, which has been the site of several royal weddings, including the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, aka Harry and Meghan. (The tombs of 11 monarchs are also located there.) You could also wander over to the nearby pub at The George Inn for a pint and a bite to eat. The castle is about a 22-mile trip from the city. RCT.uk/visit/windsor-castle

8. Step Back in Time at Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey has been the monarchy’s coronation church since 1066, and in May 2023, was the site of the coronation of King Charles III. It was also the site of the wedding of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Phillip in 1947. The public is welcome to tour the famous abbey every day except Sunday and when it’s closed for special events. You can attend most religious services there free of charge.

When you’re done with your guided or self-guided tour — and you’ve seen the Coronation Chair, visited the garden, and learned about all the famous people buried at the Abbey — you can take a short walk to see Big Ben. The iconic clock tower has been going through a yearslong renovation, but Big Ben is now ringing again. (Access to the inside of Big Ben is limited, however.) Westminster-Abbey.org/visit-us

9. Museum Hop

The British Museum is known around the world for its vast collection of ancient artifacts. Must-sees like the Rosetta Stone, the Parthenon sculptures, and Egyptian mummies have made it the most-visited attraction in England. To make your visit more manageable, the museum offers three different “Object Trails” that highlight the most popular objects on display. BritishMuseum.org/visit

Ready for something a little more contemporary? At the Tate Modern, visitors can shake off the traditional and gaze upon amazing modern and contemporary works by artists like Picasso and Cezanne. And the museum’s location, on the Thames River, is breathtaking. You can see the permanent collection for free, and if you bring children, there are creative activities just for them. Tate.org.uk/visit/tate-modern

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10. See a Show

Whether you want to see Shakespeare, a musical, a comedy, or something avant garde, see what’s available at the West End theaters and elsewhere. You might see anyone from Oscar-winner Mark Rylance to singer-songwriter-actor Lily Allen on stage.

Another option: Take a backstage tour of the National Theatre to gain a bit of context about the London stage scene. NationalTheatre.org.uk/your-visit/things-to-do/theatre-tours/

Insider Tips

While researching the top things to do in London, we picked up a few insider tips that could improve your trip, including:

Choose Your Home Base

To help make your London trip more manageable, you may want to keep your sightseeing goals in mind when choosing your accommodations. The Southbank neighborhood may be your best bet, for example, if you want to be close to popular tourist attractions, including the London Eye and Tate Modern. The West End is another popular area for tourists looking to stay in the city center, and it’s known for its shopping and nightlife. And the Mayfair area, near Hyde Park, is a posh yet welcoming place to explore.

No matter where you stay, it’s a good idea to make sure you have easy access to London’s public transportation system, so you can get where you need to go quickly and inexpensively.

Avoid the Long Lines at Attractions

The lines can be long at London attractions, but there may be ways to get around them. If you can, avoid peak hours and dates when visiting popular attractions. And look for “skip-the-line” entrance tickets you can purchase in advance on many attraction websites.

Have a Plan for How You’ll Pay

It can be a good idea to bring some cash, your debit card, and a couple of credit cards to pay for various things when you’re in London. (VISA and Mastercard may be more widely accepted than other cards.)

You also may want to bring at least one travel credit card so you can get rewarded for qualifying purchases while you’re abroad. And if you can, bring a credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees.

It can be wise to budget for the amount of money you’ll bring with you as well as how you will pay for some larger expenses. Those can earn you rewards that, whether you opt for cash back vs. miles, can help you afford your next trip.

The Takeaway

London is full of historic delights, whether that means watching the Changing of the Guard ceremony, touring the Tower of London, or taking in a show in the West End. Because there’s so much to do in London, planning your trip can be a little daunting. Deciding which experiences are on your personal list of top things to do, however, can be a good place to start. Having a “must” list can help you decide where to stay, how much you’ll need to budget, and how you’ll pay for it all. That way, you can be sure that whatever activity you daydream about most (from high tea to seeing where Harry Potter was filmed) can be accommodated.

Whether you want to travel more or get a better ROI for your travel dollar, SoFi can help. SoFi Travel is a new service exclusively for SoFi members that lets you budget, plan, and book your next trip in a convenient one-stop shop. SoFi takes the guessing game out of how much you can afford for that honeymoon, family vacation, or quick getaway — and we help you save too.

FAQ

Where can you see art in London?

You can see great art in museums all over London or simply by strolling through the city and keeping an eye out for street art. Look for some amazing (and ever-changing) art in the Leake Street Tunnel in Central London, in the Shoreditch area of East London, and on the Millennium Bridge, which pedestrians use to cross the Thames.

What’s the nightlife like in London?

Like any major city, there’s a wide variety of clubs, bars, pubs, and other activities for night owls to enjoy in London. You can ask your hotel concierge for suggestions or research your options online.

What are some off-the-beaten-path things to do in London?

For unusual things to do in London, you might visit one of the quirky historic homes/museums in the city, like Leighton House or Sir John Soane’s Museum. You might also take a colorfully painted London “waterbus,” a picturesque ride down a canal linking Camden Market and Little Venice neighborhoods.

Photo credit: iStock/TomasSereda

**Terms, and conditions apply: The SoFi Travel Portal is operated by Expedia. To learn more about Expedia, click https://www.expediagroup.com/home/default.aspx.

When you use your SoFi Credit Card to make a purchase on the SoFi Travel Portal, you will earn a number of SoFi Member Rewards points equal to 3% of the total amount you spend on the SoFi Travel Portal. Members can save up to 10% or more on eligible bookings.

Planning a trip to Paris is exciting, bien sûr (that’s French for “of course”). There’s so much to do and see, from the grand boulevards and gorgeous architecture to the renowned museums and boutiques to the fun of hitting flea markets or just sitting at a café and people-watching.

It can be tough to whittle down all the amazing things to experience in the City of Light to a short list of absolute “must-dos.” Should you stick with tried-and-true bucket-list items, like visiting the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre? Or should you wander a bit outside those boundaries and book a bicycle tour or train trip?

The best answer may be to do a little of everything. Here, you’ll learn seasoned travelers’ tips and picks for fun things to do in Paris so you can create your own list of adventures.

Best Times to Go to Paris

Although many say there is no wrong time to go to Paris, you may want to choose your travel dates based on when the weather is at its best (based on your personal preference), how well you can deal with crowds, and the celebrations and festivals that might be occurring during your visit.

For example, if you want to attend the Carnaval de Paris, with its colorful Mardi Gras-like parade, you’ll want to time your trip so you’re there in the late winter. Or if you’re into fashion, you may wish to visit in the fall, during Paris Fashion Week, to soak up the excitement (just be warned, hotel rooms may be scarce and pricier than usual).

Frequent travelers tend to prefer Paris in the late spring and summer, when the skies are mostly clear and the weather is warm. But if you don’t mind the cold, the city also sparkles in the winter, especially during the holidays.

Bad Times to Go to Paris

Because many Parisian families take their vacations in August, you may run into more restaurant and shop closures during that month. That doesn’t necessarily make it a bad time to go — but you may want to check ahead to be sure you’ll still be able to see and do what you want while you’re in the city.

Also, of course, the summer travel season is when the city tends to welcome the most visitors. If you’d like to avoid the crowds, you might prefer to plan your Parisian vacation for spring or fall.

Average Cost of a Paris Vacation

The cost of a Paris trip can vary significantly, depending on how long you stay, when and where you stay, and other factors. For instance, are you happy grabbing inexpensive fare on the go, or are you the type who wants to dine at Paris’s most exclusive eateries?

Travel sites put the average cost of a weeklong Paris trip at about $1,550 for an individual and $2,600 for a couple. This represents daily costs of lodging (two people to a room), plus local transportation and basic food costs. (If you’re traveling with your kids or traveling with pets, the cost can be significantly more.)

Here are just a few of the costs you may want to consider when you’re budgeting for your trip:

Getting There

Roundtrip airfare to Paris can range widely, based on where you’re flying from, when you’re traveling, how many stops you’re willing to make, and the class of service you choose. A search in April 2023 found that an economy flight with one stop from Chicago to Paris cost $1,167 or more round-trip for flights in May. Want to fly nonstop? That will cost about $1,500 round-trip. (Don’t forget to look at how credit card travel insurance works, just in case your flight is canceled, your luggage gets lost, or some other mishap occurs.)

Accommodations

If you’re willing to stay at a hostel or a budget hotel, you may be able to save money on hotels, possibly a significant amount. Otherwise, you can expect to pay from $150 to $600 per night for a mid-range to luxury hotel in the city, though prices can certainly vary depending on the time of year and how far in advance you book.

If there are several people in your group, you might look into renting an apartment for a true “live like a Parisian” experience and lower price tag. This can also be how families can afford to travel.

Dining

The average spend per person for food in Paris is about $45 per day. But your tab may go up or down (just like at home) based on how often you dine out, the restaurants you choose, and of course, how many cocktails you consume.

If you opt for fast food or a simple ham sandwich eaten on a park bench, you will obviously spend less than if you are having an exquisite lobster dish at a top-notch bistro.

Tip: Are you splurging on luxurious meals? You may want to consider how to charge those expenses to make the most of your credit card rewards.

Sightseeing

You can wander the beautiful streets of Paris for free, but the museums and other tourist attractions typically cost $15 or $20 per person. The famed Louvre Museum, for instance, typically charges about $18; at the Musée d’Orsay, the cost is similar. However, you may luck out here and there: The Petit Palais’ incredible permanent collection is free.

If you hire a guide or buy souvenirs, it could be more. But you also can save by purchasing a multi-day Paris Pass or Paris Museum Pass to gain entry to various top attractions. (A pass also may get you past the long lines at some attractions.)

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10 Fun Must-Dos in Paris

No matter how fast a walker and how high-energy you may be, there is no way to see everything when you go to Paris. There’s just so much, it would be impossible to squeeze it all into a week, or two, or 10. But if you go in with a plan — and some word-of-mouth recs from friends and frequent travelers to France — you can up the chances that you’ll hit your fair share of Paris highlights.

Here, culled from dozens of travel sites, blogs, and “best of” lists, plus frequent visitors’ advice, is a lineup of the top things to do around the city.

1. Take in, Then Dine in, the Eiffel Tower

Of course, you can’t miss the Eiffel Tower! You can see it during the day, from a tour boat, from the street, or by climbing the tower stairs (or taking an elevator) with or without a guide. Or you can take your experience to a whole other level and book a table at the Michelin-starred Jules Verne restaurant on the second level of the tower. The Jules Verne is open for lunch and dinner every day except July 14 (Bastille Day). Restaurants-TourEiffel.com/en/jules-verne-restaurant.html#b9

2. Visit the Louvre Museum

The Musée du Louvre makes every Paris “must” list, and here’s why: Leonardo da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa” is there along with other amazing works by da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Rembrandt. In fact, there are tens of thousands of works of art at the museum and some amazing artifacts. (Let’s face it, the architecture alone is worth a visit.) Worried you’ll be overwhelmed? You can always sign up for a theme-based tour or take a break in the museum’s gardens. Louvre.fr/en/

3. Walk Like a Parisian

The Rive Gauche, or Left Bank, is home to many of Paris’s memorable attractions, including the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, and Notre-Dame Cathedral (see also below). But if you want to get a taste of what life is really like for a Parisian, you also may want to plan a leisurely stroll through this part of the city.

You could start with coffee at Café de Flore (CafedeFlore.fr/?lang=en), for example, one of the city’s most famous cafés. Then maybe stop to shop at the oldest department store in Paris, Le Bon Marché (LeBonMarche.com/en/store-2), known for its architecture and fantastic fashions. You won’t want to miss the macarons at Ladurée on Rue Bonaparte (Laduree.fr/en/). And from there you can take a 10-minute walk to Le Jardin du Luxembourg (Luxembourg Gardens; ParisInfo.com/ paris-museum-monument/71393/Jardin-du-Luxembourg), one of the best free things to do in Paris. It’s a beautiful park with sculptures, fantastic flowers, and a pond where kids and adults sail their toy boats.

4. Watch the Sunset at Montmartre

Paris’ Montmartre neighborhood is a favorite among travelers, who love its quirky bohemian vibe and breathtaking sunsets from the steps of the beautiful Basilique du Sacré-Cœur basilica (Sacre-Coeur-Montmartre.com/english), with its iconic domed silhouette. During the day or at dusk, you’ll get a panoramic view of Paris, and if you hang around long enough, you’ll also see the city’s lights start to twinkle.

5. Check out the World Famous Churches

With its magnificent Gothic architecture and its amazing history, Notre-Dame de Paris (NotreDameCathedralParis.com/) is, for many travelers, a bucket-list destination. Though the iconic structure was nearly destroyed in a 2019 fire, its restoration is well underway, and a full reopening is scheduled for 2024. Along with Notre-Dame and Basilique du Sacré-Cœur (mentioned above), there are many beautiful churches worth visiting in Paris, including La Sainte-Chapelle (Sainte-Chapelle.fr/en) and Église Saint-Eustache (Saint-Eustache.org/).

6. Whip Up Some Fun at Chateau de Chantilly

Looking for fun things to do in Paris with kids? At the Château de Chantilly, there are horses, history, and even whipped cream workshops! The castle is actually about 40 kilometers (24 miles) outside Paris, but you can easily get there if you’re renting a car or take the train. (Take a taxi or bus from Chantilly Station). ChateaudeChantilly.fr/en/access/

7. Make Time for the Musée d’Orsay

The Musée d’Orsay is the second-largest museum in Paris and a must-see if you’re a fan of Impressionist art. You’ll find works by Claude Monet, Edward Degas, Vincent Van Gogh, and Paul Gauguin, as well as sculptures, photography, and more. And the building that houses the museum, the former Orsay railway station, is an architectural gem. Another plus: The crowds tend to be a bit more manageable than at the Louvre. The museum is closed on Mondays, however, so plan accordingly. Musee-Orsay.fr/en/visit

8. Get Chills at the Arc de Triomphe

The exterior of the iconic Arc de Triomphe is in and of itself something to admire, with its four massive bas-reliefs depicting important events in French history: The Entry of Napoleon, The Departure of the Volunteers (also known as La Marseillaise), The Conquest of Alexandria, and The Battle of Austerlitz. But the monument also has a viewing platform with a sweeping view of Paris, and it will likely be less crowded than the Eiffel Tower. fr/en/paris/article/arc-de-triomphe

9. Tour the Père Lachaise Cemetery

You may have heard of the Cimetière du Père Lachaise, France’s largest and most famous graveyard. Many actors, singers, writers, musicians, and other personalities are buried there, including Jim Morrison, Edith Piaf, Oscar Wilde, Frederic Chopin, and Gertrude Stein. It’s also a lovely, lush green space, filled with remarkable sculptured tombs. You can take a guided tour to get the history and locations of some of the hardest-to-locate gravesites, or you can scan a QR code just inside the entrance to get a map. Pere-Lachaise.com/

10. Take a Cruise Down the Seine

If you want to kick back and relax a bit while you see the sights, you may want to consider a river cruise down the Seine. Cruises range from one-hour sightseeing tours to hop-on-hop-off day trips, to weeklong voyages that can take you from Paris to the Normandy beaches and beyond. You’ll get a different perspective on the city, and a close-up look at its beautiful bridges, including the Pont Neuf, believed to be the oldest stone bridge in Paris, and the Pont Alexandre III, with its ornate sculptures.

Insider Tips

Follow these tips to enhance your time exploring the best things to do in Paris:

Location, Location, Location

Paris consists of 20 districts (the French call them arrondissements), and each is a little different. Some have lovely streets to stroll, while others may be closer to famous attractions or have better shopping. Keeping your sightseeing goals in mind when you choose your accommodations can make your time in Paris even more enjoyable.

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Avoid the Long Lines at Attractions

The lines are notoriously long at Paris attractions, but there are ways to get around them. If you meet up with a guide, for example, you typically can bypass the lines and go right inside. Many attractions also offer skip-the-line entrance tickets you can purchase in advance on the website. Or you can buy a Paris Museum Pass or Paris Pass to avoid the wait at popular venues. (You’ll still have to go through security lines, however.)

Get Yourself Some Wheels

If just the idea of walking everywhere in Paris is giving you foot cramps, you may want to consider renting a bicycle or a motorized bike for a day or two. You can go your own way at your own pace or take a guided bike tour of the city.

Of course, the city’s metro (or subway) system also stands at the ready and can be a fast way to zip around, albeit underground.

Have a Plan for How You’ll Pay

Even if you are planning a “book now, pay later” vacation, it’s wise to develop a budget and follow it.

When you actually head to the airport, it can be a good idea to bring some cash, your debit card, and a couple of credit cards to pay for various things in Paris. (VISA and Mastercard may be more widely accepted than other cards.) You also may want to bring at least one travel credit card so you can get rewarded for qualifying purchases while you’re abroad. And, if you can, bring a credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees.

When it comes to money and plastic, remember that big, crowded cities anywhere have their share of pickpockets, so pay attention and keep your wallet and bag secure.

The Takeaway

Because there’s so much to do, traveling to France can be a little daunting. So plan ahead and decide which experiences are on your personal list of top things to do in Paris. Having a “must” list can help you decide where to stay, what you’ll need to bring, how much you’ll need to budget, and how you’ll pay for it all. Then you’ll be set to visit the city’s world-famous landmarks, stroll through its wonderful neighborhoods, and feast on French food. You’re bound to have a magical, memorable time.

SoFi Travel is a new service exclusively for SoFi members. Through a partnership with Expedia, we make it easy to find the lowest rates and book your reservations — for flights, hotel rooms, car rentals, and more — all in one place. Earn 2x rewards when booking with your SoFi Mastercard or debit card. And when you redeem your SoFi rewards for travel, you get a 25% bonus: $100 of reward points are worth $125.

FAQ

How much French do I need to know to visit Paris?

You don’t have to take a language course, but you may want to keep a few basic French phrases at the ready, such as bonjour (hello), merci (thank you), pardon (sorry/excuse me), and “Parlez-vous anglais?” (Do you speak English?).

What are things you cannot miss when visiting Paris?

Many people feel that a visit to the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and Notre Dame cathedral (currently under restoration) are must-see locations in Paris. Also, sitting outside at a café and watching the world go by is a pleasure.

What are some non-touristy things to do in Paris?

If you long to get away from other tourists but still do fun things in Paris, France, you could visit Paris’s largest open-air food market, Marché Président Wilson, in the 16th arrondissement. You can join shoppers from the neighborhood and beyond buying vegetables, flowers, wine, and pastries. You might also visit one of Paris’ wonderful but lesser known parks, like Parc des Buttes Chaumont in the 19th district.

Photo credit: iStock/Eloi_Omella

**Terms, and conditions apply: The SoFi Travel Portal is operated by Expedia. To learn more about Expedia, click https://www.expediagroup.com/home/default.aspx.

When you use your SoFi Credit Card to make a purchase on the SoFi Travel Portal, you will earn a number of SoFi Member Rewards points equal to 3% of the total amount you spend on the SoFi Travel Portal. Members can save up to 10% or more on eligible bookings.

If you’re wondering what those digits across the bottom of a check mean, the first one you see at the lower left is the routing number. Those three sets of numbers have different meanings and uses; they help financial transactions get processed swiftly and efficiently. They move funds from one place to another with precision.

Going from left to right, your checks are typically printed with the routing number, account number, and check number. It can be helpful to understand what a routing number represents in more detail. Those digits are useful when writing checks, signing up for direct deposit, and doing other banking activities.

Read on to learn about this important number and more, including:

•   What is a routing number?

•   Which number is the routing number on a check?

•   How is a routing number different from your bank account number?

•   When do you need to use a routing number?

What Is a Routing Number?

A routing number is a 9-digit identification number that’s been assigned to your bank or credit union by the American Bankers Association (ABA). It’s often referred to as an ABA number or a routing transit number (RTN). According to the ABA, a routing number can only be issued to a federal or state-chartered institution deemed to be eligible for a master account with the Federal Reserve.

The purpose of a routing number is to indicate which financial institution is responsible for processing a payment and to ensure the funds go to the correct place. Each bank has its own unique routing number to distinguish it from all of the other banks. This helps to avoid any confusion, mix-ups, or mistakes. For example, if your bank has a similar name to another one, it’s still distinguishable because of the financial institutions’ different routing numbers.

Routing numbers are only used in the U.S., but some large national and global banks may possess multiple routing numbers based on where the account is held or where you reside. A bank may also use more than one routing number for different transactions, such as one for wire transfers and another for processing checks.

Where to Find a Routing Number on a Check

Many of us, at one time or another, look at the digits on a check and wonder which one is the routing number. As previously mentioned, when you look at the bottom of a check, you’ll find three separate series of numbers. Typically, your routing number in the bottom left corner, your individual bank account number the second cluster of digits, and the check number can be found to the right of the account number. However, there are times when these numbers can appear in a different order, such as on an official bank check.

All of the numbers featured on the bottom of the check are printed with magnetic ink character recognition (MICR), an electric ink that makes the digits more machine-readable and helps banks process checks more quickly. The ink can’t be faked or copied, offering enhanced security for the account holder and the bank.

Routing Number vs. Bank Account Number

Now that you know which is the routing number on a check, consider that the routing and bank account numbers are two distinct things.

•   As noted earlier, the routing number identifies the financial institution responsible for the transaction and makes sure the money deposited or debited goes to the right place.

•   Your bank account number on the other hand, is a series of numbers used to pinpoint a specific savings, checking, or business account. It’s created especially for you and pertains only to your individual funds. If you have a checking and savings account with the same bank, each account will have its own separate number but the routing number for both will remain identical.

While routing numbers contain 9 digits, bank account numbers can have anywhere between 5 and 17 numbers. Generally though, account numbers are within the 8 to 12 digit range.

A routing number is safe to share and is available to the public. Your own bank account number is best to keep private whenever possible and only supplied to trusted sources. The combination of your personal account number with a bank’s routing number, can in some cases give someone direct access to your money.

What Are Routing Numbers Used For?

Routing numbers are necessary because in a financial transaction, these digits help banks identify each other. This is key in the event where you need to transfer money from one account to another. For example, if you send a loved one a check for their birthday, the routing number on the bottom of the check indicates the funds come from your particular bank and account.

You will find some instances when accessing your routing number will be necessary. Here’s some of those situations:

Setting Up Direct Deposit

Getting your earnings directly deposited into your bank account has pretty much made paper paychecks obsolete. In fact, one survey by the American Payroll Association found 93% of people use direct deposit as their method of getting paid.

If your employer gives you the option of receiving your pay via direct deposit, signing up should be pretty seamless. You’ll most likely fill out a form giving your company’s HR or payroll department your bank’s routing number along with your personal account number so they know exactly where to deposit your paycheck. Once you set up a direct deposit, come pay day, your money will automatically show up in your account. (Of course, make sure to use the digits for a current account vs. sending direct deposit to a closed account.)

Direct deposit isn’t only for paychecks. It can also be implemented for receiving Social Security and other government payments, annuities, travel and expense reimbursements, and 401(k) disbursements, among others.

Making a Wire Transfer

A wire transfer is a fast way of sending money electronically from one bank account to another. Some details to note:

•   These accounts can be domestic (between two U.S accounts) or between an international and a U.S. account. Wire transfers can be sent through your bank branch or online bank account. You can also choose to go with a wire service entity such as Western Union.

•   In order to send money via a wire transfer, you’ll need to provide the account you’re using to complete the transfer, the recipient’s bank name and routing number, plus their bank account number. Additionally, you may also need to provide your bank’s routing number and your individual bank account number.

•   Many banks charge a wire transfer fee for sending or even receiving one. An incoming fee may be around $15 and an outgoing one can trigger a charge of $25 on domestic transactions.

•   If it’s not an urgent matter, it will cost less to send money electronically through an Automated Clearing House (ACH) transfer. An ACH transaction uses an electronic network system that represents more than 10,000 financial institutions in the U.S. You may wonder what ACH transaction fees are like? They are typically free for bank clients, which is a nice benefit. The downside of an ACH is it can take a couple of days to process, whereas a wire transfer can be processed the same day .

Recommended: ACH vs. Check: What Are the Differences?

Paying a Bill Online

Making a bill payment online and scheduling automatic payments for your recurring monthly bills can make life a lot easier. In order to make online bill payments, whether you arrange for it to be automatically deducted or log on to the biller, such as a utility or credit card company, those bill payees will need both your financial institution’s routing number along with your individual account digits.

You can also pay businesses or people electronically directly from your bank account through apps such as Venmo and PayPal. When you sign up for these apps, you can choose where you want your payments to come from, or go to, if someone is sending you money. One choice is to link to your bank account, in which case, those apps will need your routing and account numbers.

Recommended: Changing the Due Dates of Your Bills: Is it Possible?

Filing Your Taxes

Getting or expecting a refund this year? Direct deposit for your tax refund is the fastest and most reliable way to get your money. And, it’s also popular. According to the IRS, 80% of taxpayers choose direct deposit as the method in which they get their refund. If you choose this option, you’ll need to enter your bank name, routing number, and the bank account digits where you want to receive your refund.

Make sure you verify you’ve put in the correct routing and bank account numbers on your federal and, if applicable, state return before you sign and submit it. If not, the IRS will send you a paper check instead.

Looking Up a Bank

Nowadays with so many banks offering enticing reasons to open an account, such as a signup bonus , low-interest rates, and low-to-no monthly fees, it’s possible to have a checking account with one bank and a savings account with another. In this case, you’ll have a routing number for each bank. You’ll need to know both if you want to transfer money between accounts, for example.

Thanks to the internet, you may find the other bank’s routing number simply by going on their website. Some may list it on the home page or elsewhere, like the FAQ section. You can also use a search engine to type in the name of the bank and “What is their routing number?” to try to find out the information.

Finding a Routing Number Without a Check

Don’t have a check handy? No problem. There are definitely other ways you can easily get your routing number. Here’s how:

Monthly Bank Statement

Banks and credit unions make a monthly statement available to customers either online or on paper that’s sent through the mail. When you have your statement, you should find the bank’s routing number along with your account number on the top of the first page.

If you can’t locate it, try logging on to the bank’s website and do a search for your routing number or explore your account details to find those digits.

Checking your monthly bank statement frequently is a good way to keep on top of your transactions. Review your statement regularly to check for any bank errors or fraudulent activity such as incorrect debits from an altered check or a continued recurring charge from a long-ago canceled subscription. If you discover any type of errors, contact your bank right away.

Mobile Banking App

Having 24/7 online access to your bank account makes finding your routing number possible from your couch. Many banks have a mobile app these days. While these apps tend to differ in setup and layout depending on your bank, you should be able to find your routing number through the app by looking up your account details.

You can also access your bank statement through the app and as previously mentioned, generally find your routing number that way.

Your Local Bank Branch

If all else fails and you can’t easily find your bank’s routing number, visit your nearby branch in person to get the information. Sometimes the bank will have the routing number posted in the lobby area so you can simply jot it down or take a photo of it with your phone. Asking a teller or bank officer directly if it’s not displayed.

Can’t make it to the bank or have an account at an online vs. traditional bank? Call their customer service number. A representative can typically give you the bank’s routing number over the phone.

Look It up Through the ABA

The American Bankers Association has a routing number lookup tool called the ABA Routing Number Lookup. This mechanism allows you to locate the routing number for your bank or credit union. One thing to know when using the ABA Routing Number Lookup, users are limited to no more than two lookups a day and to 10 lookups a month. You’ll also have to agree to terms for access and use of the ABA’s tool.

The Takeaway

Your bank’s routing number can be found at the bottom of your personal checks on the far left-hand side. If you don’t have a check at your fingertips, you may need to find your bank’s routing number another way. You might call your bank, get it from your bank statement, or find it through the bank’s mobile app.

Interested in opening an online checking account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive APY, pay zero bank fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint network of 55,000-plus fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.

FAQ

Is the routing number always first on a check?

Typically, yes, the routing number is the first set of digits at the bottom left-hand area of a check. But in some cases, it can be switched up and appear after the account number, such as on a bank check.

Are routing numbers 8 or 9 digits?

Routing numbers are always 9 digits. Your individual bank account number typically falls between 8 and 12 digits, but it can be anywhere between 5 and 17 numbers, depending on your financial institution.

Which is the account number on a check?

The account number on a personal check is the group of numbers that appears on the bottom, normally sandwiched between the routing number on the left and the check number on the right.

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As an alternative to direct deposit, SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits can earn 4.20% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Qualifying Deposits means one or more deposits that, in the aggregate, are equal to or greater than $5,000 to an account holder’s SoFi Checking and Savings account (“Qualifying Deposits”) during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Qualifying Deposits only include those deposits from the following eligible sources: (i) ACH transfers, (ii) inbound wire transfers, (iii) peer-to-peer transfers (i.e., external transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc. and internal peer-to-peer transfers from a SoFi account belonging to another account holder), (iv) check deposits, (v) instant funding to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, (vi) push payments to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, and (vii) cash deposits. Qualifying Deposits do not include: (i) transfers between an account holder’s Checking account, Savings account, and/or Vaults; (ii) interest payments; (iii) bonuses issued by SoFi Bank or its affiliates; or (iv) credits, reversals, and refunds from SoFi Bank, N.A. (“SoFi Bank”) or from a merchant. SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits are not eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits.

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