Situated on the banks of the River Thames, this giant Ferris wheel was the tallest in the world, in 1999 when it was erected. It was surpassed in 2006 by the Star of Nanchang from China and by the Singapore Flyer in 2008.

The project of the London Eye entered a competition for a landmark for the new millennium. None of the submitted projects won, but still, the architects of the wheel didn't give up and finally got the support of British Airways, who sponsored the project. It's construction lasted about a year and a half, and 1700 tones of steel, 3000 tones of concrete were used only for the foundation.

The structure is 135 meter (443feet) high, has 32 capsules, each one accommodating up to 25 passengers. It has become one of London's most popular attractions, carrying 10,000 visitors every day and over 3.5 million people a year.

On a clear day, you can see up to a distance of 40 kilometers, in all directions. A complete turn lasts about 30 minutes and tourists are advised to buy tickets in advance and avoid the lines.