The Shard (The View) is a real time commitment — fit it in only if it's a priority.
Allow 1–1.5 hrs.
The highest public view in the city, with a 360° panorama and an open-air upper deck. On a clear day it's spectacular. Catch: it's the priciest viewpoint in town, and you can get a comparable City view for free at the nearby Sky Garden if you plan ahead.