Make the most of London

The message is loud and clear. The world may be in the grip of a terrorist crisis, but London is still vibrant and open for business. We talk to leaders of commerce and the arts about how to make the most of the capital.

Paul Hopper, managing director of the London Tourist Board

This is the perfect opportunity for Londoners to take a holiday in their own city, especially at a time when people are worried about travelling abroad. Some luxury hotels are offering large discounts. It's an ideal opportunity to spend a couple of nights in a grand room, pamper yourself with room service and just enjoy spending time in central London. If room service isn't your thing, why not jump in a black cab down to the West End. There are plenty of places to go, such as the cinemas in Leicester Square and the restaurants of Chinatown, which won't break the bank. The suggestions are endless.

Jo Valentine, chief operating officer, London First

There is a little-known gem called the Petrie Museum, near University College, full of amazing Egyptian treasures. It's my daughter's seventh birthday this weekend and I'm taking her and her friends there in a stretch limo - it's a fantastic way to see the capital. If Egyptian treasures aren't your thing, there are loads of exhibitions, markets, museums and galleries to visit - all within a short distance of each other. There's the National Gallery and the National Portrait Gallery in Trafalgar Square. The National Gallery has got a Masaccio exhibition at the moment which sounds fantastic.

Andre Ptaszynski, chief executive, Really Useful Theatres

Londoners should take advantage of being in one of the best cities in the world for theatre. It is one of the strongest seasons for drama, with Cat on a Hot Tin Roof and Blue/Orange continuing their successful runs. A drink at the Savoy's American Bar or a meal at the Amphitheatre restaurant at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden might start the night off perfectly. Both are within walking distance of theatreland.

Bob Cotton, chief executive, British Hospitality Association

My suggestion to tempt people into London is a day for the family at Somerset House. It is a magnificent building in a wonderful setting and the interior is as impressive as the exterior. There is a fine restaurant with views of the river and several galleries, including the Courtauld which is full of impressionist masterpieces. At the end of the day, make your way to the Waldorf or the Savoy and book a room for the night - both hotels are within easy walking distance.

Peter Bishop, chief executive, London Chamber of Commerce

Londoners should enjoy the parts of the city they don't normally get time to look at. It's too easy to take it for granted - we should think more like a tourist. I plan to spend this Saturday strolling around some of the squares and small parks such as Lincolns Inn Fields, taking in the architecture and stopping for a coffee somewhere. I am also keen to see the new French movie Am?lie with my family, which should finish off the day very nicely.

Norman Rosenthal, exhibitions secretary Royal Academy of Art

I would urge people to come to our Rembrandt and Auerbach exhibitions, which are fabulous collections with works from museums all over the world. If you are tempted into London to see some art, make the most of your day with a visit to the opera. I am going to see Jenufa at Covent Garden this weekend, directed by Bernard Haitink, which friends have told me is superb.

Michel Roux, chef at Le Gavroche

First and foremost I would recommend Le Gavroche because we are opening on a Saturday for the first time this weekend. Other than that, places where I really enjoy eating include a lot of oriental restaurants. Nobu, the Japanese restaurant in Park Lane, is wonderful. Fung Shing in Chinatown is also very good, but make sure you ask for the menu of chef's specials. It's much better than the regular menu.

Nick Raynsford, Minister for London

My ideal day would be to enjoy London in all its autumnal glory. I'd walk through Greenwich Park, take a boat up the Thames to Westminster, admiring the view from Westminster Bridge. After a walk along the South Bank I'd cross the river to marvel at St Paul's. I'd lunch in Covent Garden then board a number 11 bus to a riverside pub in Hammersmith for a pint of beer.

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