CITY. Although it's said to occupy one of the world's ugliest buildings, this gallery hosts a variety of exhibitions dealing with historic and modern art. At times, it has caused a stir for opening such exhibits as the "Art of Star Wars," a fun, somewhat irreverent display that looked at the art associated with the groundbreaking films. The gallery presents a wide range of exhibits that concentrate on individual artists, genres, themes, and the like. Past shows have focused on Oscar Wilde and the influence of rock and roll in fashion. TUBE: Barbican

BLOOMSBURY. One of London's top tourist attractions, this museum seeks to cover all areas of human knowledge under one roof ­ and it succeeds on all counts. What began as a "cabinet of curiosities" in 1753 now includes galleries dedicated to ethnography, Egyptian monuments, and the arts of Africa, the Americas, and the Pacific. The Great Court, completed in 2000, incorporated additional gallery space, along with cafés and shops. Although it's impossible to cover the museum in one day, a 90-minute guided tour provides a brief glimpse of the museum's many treasures and can help you decide what to examine more closely when you return. TUBE: Holborn or Russell Square

ST. JAMES'S. Buckingham Palace is a sightseeing must. Queen Victoria moved into the vast mansion in 1837; since then, generations of royals have made the palace their home. Although wandering the grounds and taking photos of the elaborate exterior are always popular, the interior (some of which is open only during summer months) is a treasure trove of art, furniture, sculpture and decorative goods. Walk around the corner to the Royal Mews to see the queen's coaches and horses. Admission is by timed ticket, available by phoning 20-7766-7300 or e-mailing bookinginfo@royalcollection.org.uk. TUBE: Victoria or Green Park or St. James's Park

SOUTH BANK. Boasting more than 500 works, this permanent exhibition beautifully captures the curious, creative genius of the world-famous Spanish surrealist. Individual pieces are set up within a maze-like space, and as you browse, TVs and surround sound broadcast Dalí's movies as background ambience. Among the media you'll discover are sculpture, drawings, glass, watercolors, and even furniture. County Hall is next to the London Eye. It's also just across Westminster Bridge from the Houses of Parliament. TUBE: Westminster

SHOREDITCH. British domestic history and interior design are laid out in a series of rooms at this intriguing museum. Intended to recreate living quarters from the 17th to 21st centuries, the Geffrye ably illustrates the aesthetics and creature comforts associated with each era. Furnishings, architectural details, decorative items, textiles, and artwork all contribute to the total effect. Outside of the 18th-century almshouses, which hold the vignettes, are period gardens that echo the rooms inside. Also available are a restaurant and gift shop. A library and archive is accessible via special request. TUBE: Liverpool Street and then bus or Old Street, followed by a somewhat lengthy walk