Here's an itinerary for three days in London! Perfect for a long weekend. London is a massive city, and there is so much to see but this itinerary covers the city's most famous attractions as well as a few more local ones.
There are so many options for where to stay in London and it's hard to go wrong! My main suggestion is that you stay in or near the heart of the city. For the purpose of this itinerary I'm providing a luxury, mid-level, and budget option that are accessible to all parts of the itinerary.
Luxury - Brown's Hotel
As London's first hotel, Brown's opened its doors in 1837 and has played host to many famous individuals since. Brown's offers a uniquely personal experience that is hard to match elsewhere. I highly recommend for individuals looking for a luxury experience.
As London's first hotel, Brown's opened its doors in 1837 and has played host to many famous individuals since. Brown's offers a uniquely personal experience that is hard to match elsewhere. I highly recommend for individuals looking for a luxury experience.
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Mid-Range
The Ruby Lucy is located in the adorable street of Lower Marsh. It's central location offers great access to all of London via foot and transport. The closest tube station is Waterloo and Lambeth North.
The Ruby Lucy is located in the adorable street of Lower Marsh. It's central location offers great access to all of London via foot and transport. The closest tube stations are Waterloo and Lambeth North.
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Budget
The Corner London City is located within the City of London making it a perfect location for accessing all of London's highlights. It's a five minute walk from Aldgate East and Aldgate Tube stations. The hotel has a pod concept.
The Corner London City is located within the City of London making it a perfect location for accessing all of London's highlights. It's a five minute walk from Aldgate East and Aldgate Tube stations. The hotel has a pod concept.
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If you're nervous about navigating London's public transportation system or getting to/from the airport, consider reading my guide to London's transport system.
The City of Westminster is the city's political centre and actually its own city within London! Here you'll find some of London's most iconic buildings. Today's route is easily walkable, and that is what I would suggest.
Parliament Square & Houses of Parliament
You can start your journey at Parliament Square. It is next to Westminster Tube Station and houses statues of numerous famous people. Some of the most iconic statues include Abraham Lincoln, Millicent Garrett Fawcett, Winston Churchill, and Gandhi.
Parliament Square is a historic and vibrant public space located in the heart of London, directly in front of the Houses of Parliament. Known for its iconic landmarks, it features statues of prominent British figures such as Winston Churchill and Nelson Mandela. The square offers stunning views of Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster, making it a focal point for both tourists and locals. It’s also a popular spot for political demonstrations and public gatherings, reflecting its significance in British civic life. Surrounding the square are notable buildings, including Westminster Abbey and the Supreme Court, adding to its rich historical and cultural tapestry.
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Other famous buildings like Westminster Abbey, St. Margaret's Church, the UK Supreme Court, and the Palace of Westminster surround this square.
Palace of Westminster
Across the road, towards the Thames, is the Palace of Westminster. This building is better known as the Houses of Parliament and is even more famous for Big Ben and the Elizabeth Tower.
This is the location of the Houses of Parliament. You can tour this facility by booking online through the UK Parliament. There are a few types of tours including a multimedia guided tour, English guided tour, State Apartments of Speaker's House tour, and Big Ben tour. All of these tours need to be booked in advanced.
If you're from the UK then these tour will be free but if you're not than the cost will depend on the type of tour and your age.
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You can take great pictures of Big Ben from Westminster Bridge.
Westminster Bridge is a historic and iconic crossing over the River Thames in London, linking Westminster on the north bank to Lambeth on the south. Completed in 1862, this striking bridge is renowned for its beautiful Gothic design, featuring intricate detailing and a vibrant green color that complements the nearby Houses of Parliament. It offers panoramic views of the Thames, Big Ben, and the London Eye, making it a popular spot for tourists and photographers. The bridge plays a vital role in London’s transport network, while also serving as a symbol of the city's rich architectural heritage.
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The government building is named after the medieval palace of the same name. A few sections of Westminster still remain, including the 14th-century Jewel Tower, which you can visit. A visit to the Jewel Tower costs GBP 6.50.
This museum is one of the only surviving parts of the old Palace of Westminster and is dedicated to the history of Parliament and the history of the tower itself. A visit costs £8.50 or is free for English Heritage Members.
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Tours of the Palace of Westminster can be booked but only during certain times of the year. Tours take visitors through Westminster Hall, St. Stephens Hall, Commons Chamber, and the Lords Chamber. You can book these tickets online when available.
The Anglican cathedral dates back to 1245 and was primarily built in the Gothic style. The abbey has been used for all English and British coronations since William the Conquerer in 1066 and is a site for numerous royal weddings, including Prince William and Catherine Middleton. Additionally, it holds tombs and memorials to many of the most famous British people from the past 1,000 years.
A visit to Westminster Abbey costs GBP 27 and includes an audio guide. Entry to the abbey can have a long queue if you don't book in advance so, to save time, I'd recommend buying your tickets online.
There are a few ways to see the abbey including:
- Audio guide, included in your ticket.
- Vespers guided tour cost an additional £10 and must be booked at the abbey. They run Mon - Sat at 10.30am, 11am, 11.30am, 2pm.
- Evensong service, free to attend. You'll be able to hear the choral music and get a glimpse inside the abbey while enjoying the prayer and readings. These take place daily, except Wednesday, at 5pm.
After visiting the abbey walk around the corner and visit Dean's Yard. This yard is a quiet corner of the busy City of Westminster and gives you a glimpse at the Westminster School. It's open unreliably but worth a visit if you can.
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If you can, I recommend booking a verger-guided tour. These need to be booked in advance and cost an additional GBP 10.
You're now going to walk to the Horse Guards Parade to watch the changing of the guard. On your way there, look for 10 Downing Street - The Prime Minister's Residency.
10 Downing Street is the official residence and executive office of the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, located in the heart of London. This iconic black door building has been the residence of the British Prime Minister since 1735 and is a symbol of the British government. The property is situated on Downing Street, a short walk from the Houses of Parliament, and serves as a key venue for political meetings and press conferences. Its distinctive appearance and historical significance make it one of the most recognized addresses in British politics.
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The Horse Guards Parade is a ceremonial parade ground in St. James Park. Here you'll see the King's Guard on horseback. Changing of The King's Life Guard occurs daily (Monday to Friday) at 11:00. If you can time your visit for the changing of the guard, I highly recommend it! If not, no worries; the Horse Guards Parade is still worth a walk-through.
The Horse Guards Parade is a ceremonial parade ground in St. James Park. Here you'll see the King's Guard on horseback. Changing of The King's Life Guard occurs daily (Monday to Friday) at 11:00. If you can time your visit for the changing of the guard, I highly recommend it! If not, no worries; the Horse Guards Parade is still worth a walk-through.
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Horse & Guardsman
By now, you're probably ready for lunch - a great lunch spot next to the Horse Guards Parade is the Horse & Guardsman in Trafalgar Square. It's a great place to order classic fish and chips.
This restaurant continues the themes from your visit to the Horse Guards Parade. It's located near Trafalgar Square and likely to be quiet during the lunch hour mid-week. It's frequently visited by locals during the week after work to watch sports matches. They have good pub grub!
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Trafalgar Square
From the pub, walk towards Trafalgar Square. This iconic square is dedicated to the Battle of Trafalgar. This battle significantly established British naval supremacy over 100 years and was fought against Napoleon.
Trafalgar Square is a bustling public square in central London, renowned for its historical and cultural significance. Named to commemorate the British naval victory at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, it features the towering Nelson’s Column, flanked by four grand lion statues. The square is a popular gathering place for both locals and tourists, and it hosts various events, from public demonstrations to festive celebrations. Surrounded by notable landmarks such as the National Gallery and the Church of St. Martin-in-the-Fields, Trafalgar Square serves as a vibrant hub of activity and a focal point of London’s civic life.
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If you're an art lover, this is an excellent opportunity to stop and visit the National Gallery or National Portrait Gallery. Both are free museums and are located right on the square. They're easy to step into and stay for as long or as little as you have time for.
This free museum features famous art pieces from across the world. In the busy season, there can often be a large queue so to skip the line book a timed ticket in advance.
This free museum features portraits from the 1500s to modern day. It has special exhibits that cost extra but are currently on a "pay what you can" program. The basement former coal storage has been turned into a trendy cafe called "Larry's" that I recommend. The cocktails at Larry's are all themed after different portraits in the gallery.
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St. James Park
From here, walk through St. James Park and past St. James Palace to see Buckingham Palace.
St. James's Park, located in the heart of London, is a picturesque green space offering stunning views of Buckingham Palace and the iconic London Eye. The park features beautifully landscaped gardens, tranquil lakes, and a variety of wildlife, including pelicans and swans that are a highlight for many visitors. Strolling along the park's tree-lined paths or relaxing by the lake provides a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. The park is easily accessible from central London and is a short walk from popular landmarks such as Buckingham Palace and Westminster. It is open daily and free to enter, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely walk or a scenic picnic.
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Buckingham Palace
After wandering through St. James Park, you'll arrive at Buckingham Palace. If your visit coincides with the annual opening, usually during July and August, tour the palace. You'll get a chance to see the state rooms and gardens. You can book tickets here:
Buckingham Palace can be seen from the outside year-round. Tours of the interior are available in the summer months - usually only July and August.
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If you want to enjoy more royal activities in the area, consider visiting the Royal Mews to see the royal horses, carriages, and coaches. You can also visit the Queen's Gallery next door. You'll find excellent art exhibitions from the royal collection, which regularly rotate.
Piccadilly Circus
This well-known road function is famous for its neon signs and advertising. I don't advise spending a lot of time here, but it is a good landmark to see on your way to the next site.
Piccadilly Circus is a lively and iconic intersection in the West End of London, renowned for its bright, bustling atmosphere and vibrant neon signs. Often compared to Times Square in New York, it’s a major commercial and entertainment hub, surrounded by famous landmarks such as the Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain and the London Pavilion. The area is a gateway to several major streets, including Regent Street and Leicester Square, and is known for its diverse array of shops, theaters, and restaurants. Piccadilly Circus is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, offering a dynamic blend of history, culture, and modernity.
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Covent Garden
By now, night is falling, and you'll be ready for dinner. Head towards Covent Garden - a local favourite - and wander around the fun atmosphere before finding a spot for dinner. If you're looking for a spot for drinks, consider going to the rooftop of the Royal Opera House. It offers great views of London and the square below.
Covent Garden is a vibrant district in London's West End, renowned for its lively market, street performers, and historic charm. Originally a fruit and vegetable market, the area has transformed into a popular cultural and shopping destination, featuring a mix of boutique shops, restaurants, and artisanal food stalls. The iconic Covent Garden Market, housed in a beautiful 19th-century building, is a focal point, offering a variety of unique goods and local crafts. The district is also home to the Royal Opera House and a range of theaters, making it a hub for arts and entertainment. With its bustling atmosphere and rich heritage, Covent Garden remains a beloved spot for both visitors and locals.
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If you enjoy theatre, you're in the right area to see one of the many musicals, plays, comedy shows, operas, ballets, or gigs in the West End. This would be a great way to finish your first day in London!
For more information on visiting the West End, visit my guide below. This guide discusses
Today, you'll explore two neighbourhoods - the City of London and Southbank. The City of London is another city within London, home to most of London's financial and banking services. It is also the oldest part of the city and holds several Roman ruins from when London was "Londinium."
Across the River Thames, you'll find the Southbank. This neighbourhood was historically factories but extensively rebuilt after World War II into the trendier, modern area you'll find today.
St. Paul's Cathedral
Start your journey at one of London's most famous landmarks. The cathedral was rebuilt after the London Fire of 1666 by Sir Christopher Wren. A visit to the site costs GBP 23 for a walk-up, while online rates are GBP 20.50. Admission includes a multimedia guide and provides access to the Cathedral Floor, Crypt, and Dome Galleries. A walk up the Dome involves climbing 528 steps and provides a gloriourious look over London.
It costs GBP 23 to buy your tickets if you walk up but costs GBP 20.50 if you buy your tickets in advance. St Paul's will give you an audio guide but you can also take a guided tour by one of their staff members. These are really well done and I recommend! The other key activity is to climb the 528 steps of St Paul's Cathedral and see amazing views of London. There are several places to stop so you don't have to climb them all at once.
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Millennium Bridge
You'll walk across Millennium Bridge into the Southbank neighbourhood from the cathedral. You experienced a small taste of this by the London Eye yesterday, but you'll experience more today.
The Millennium Bridge is one of London's pedestrian bridges. It opened in 2000 and achieved worldwide fame during its cameo in 'Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince,' as Voldemort's Death Eaters turn the bridge topsy turvy.
While on the bridge, be sure to turn back and take pictures of St. Paul's!
The Millennium Bridge is one of London's pedestrian bridges. It opened in 2000 and achieved worldwide fame during its cameo in 'Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince,' as Voldemort's Death Eaters turn the bridge topsy turvy.
While on the bridge, be sure to turn back and take pictures of St. Paul's!
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Tate Modern
Across Millenium Bridge sits Tate Modern, a free modern art museum. It has a good cafe inside and spending as much or as little time inside as you want is easy.
This free modern art museum is located in London's Southbank. It hosts rotating exhibits that usually cost additional, but the standing display is free.
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Shakespeare's Globe
From here, you're going to take a walk along the Southbank to your lunch stop at Borough Market. On your way, you'll spot a recreated Shakespeare's Globe. If you're a fan it is worth taking a tour of the theater or going for a performance.
The best way to see the Globe is by going to one of the performances. If this isn't your thing but you love Shakespeare and just want to know as much as you can, then taking a tour of the Globe is a great idea. I recommend booking the tour in advance. They run pretty frequently so if you choose to do a walk in tour, you probably won't have to wait very long. The tour talks about the rebuild of the globe, the design, Shakespeare's history, and the relationship to London.
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Borough Market
Borough Market is one of the city's best spots to grab lunch! It's a local classic. There are stalls selling everything from burgers to baked goods and beyond.
London Bridge, an iconic and historic structure spanning the River Thames, has a rich history that includes several iterations. It's in the approximate location of the original Roman bridge, built around 50 AD. It was a crucial crossing point and played a significant role in London's early development. It was a wooden structure that was eventually replaced by a stone bridge in the 12th century.
The current London Bridge, opened in 1973, is a modern engineering marvel and provides a crucial crossing between the City of London and Southwark. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Thames and the surrounding cityscape from the bridge, and explore nearby attractions such as Borough Market and Tower Bridge. The area around London Bridge is vibrant, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and cultural sites, making it a bustling destination for both tourists and locals. The bridge is well-served by public transport, including the London Underground and several bus routes, making it easily accessible for visitors.
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Tower of London
You can walk down the north bank towards the Tower of London. You can visit the Tower of London for GBP 33.60. A visit to the medieval castle includes entry to see the crown jewels, exhibits on the ravens, the white tower, line of kings exhibit, tower green, bloody tower, and the battlements.
A visit to the Tower of London costs GBP 33.60. Here I recommend prioritizing the Crown Jewels, the Beauchamp Tower to see the prison graffiti, and the chapel royal to see where several royals are buried . Additionally, if you can, attend the Ceremony of the Keys. This ancient ceremony occurs at sunset when the tower is locked for the evening.
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Tower Bridge
From here, cross Tower Bridge - London's most iconic bridge. If you have time and a desire, you can walk across the top of Tower Bridge. The Museum of Tower Bridge provides the history of how the bridge was built and how it functions today and offers excellent views of London and the bridge. Entry to the tower bridge costs GBP 12.30.
It costs GBP 12.30 to visit the top of Tower Bridge. You can walk over the glass floor and see the busy bridge below. If you're lucky, the bridge will open while you're on it! In addition, you can visit the engine rooms and see a history of how the bridge was built.
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Bermondsey Street
When you're ready for drinks and dinner, I recommend visiting the Bermondsey Street neighbourhood. This area is popular with locals for its fun pubs and excellent restaurants. If you want something unique, consider walking along the Bermondsey Beer Mile for a craft beer experience.
If you prefer lovely views to trendy neighbourhoods, I recommend going to the Sky Gardens for a drink after visiting Tower Bridge. The Sky Garden is a public garden that can be visited for free but must be booked in advance. Tickets can usually be booked up to two weeks in advance.
London's highest public garden the Sky Garden is a free to access space. It does require booking in advance and it's so popular that you should look into tickets when they come out. They have a cafe with reasonably priced drinks to enjoy with the view.
It can become crowded so the best way to view is by buying one of their sunrise tickets. The tickets cost GBP 9.50 and include a hot drink and a pastry. You are able to visit the garden an hour before opening so you'll have the sky garden mostly to yourself.
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Day 3: Notting Hill & Kensington
Notting Hill
The next morning, you'll begin your day in Notting Hill. This west London neighbourhood was made iconic by the 1999 film. Beyond that, it's one of the most gorgeous areas to be in. You'll find darling Georgian townhomes, shops, markets, and mews.
Notting Hill is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood in West London, renowned for its charming streets, colorful houses, and bustling markets. A highlight for visitors is the Portobello Road Market, which is famous for its antiques, fresh produce, and diverse food stalls. The area also boasts a lively cultural scene with boutique shops, trendy cafes, and a variety of restaurants offering international cuisine. Notting Hill is also known for its annual Notting Hill Carnival, one of the largest street festivals in Europe, celebrating Caribbean culture and music. Additionally, the neighborhood gained global fame as the setting for the 1999 romantic comedy film Notting Hill, starring Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant, which has contributed to its enduring popularity among tourists. Easily accessible by public transport, including the London Underground, Notting Hill offers a unique and picturesque experience for those exploring London.
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Portobello Road Market
If you can, time your visit to a Saturday in order to visit Portobello Road Market. This market contains food, antiques, and other goods. It is still worth heading towards the market if it's not a Saturday. Some form of the market takes place here nearly every day.
This market is most active on Saturday but busy everyday of the week. It’s most famous for antiques which are in the street stalls, brick and mortar shops, and stalls in the shops along the street. I recommend grabbing a drink at Portobello Gin Company which stills their own gin on site! There’s plenty to do here and it can easily be an all day activity.
Shops do close up early and set up late.
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I recommend having lunch in Notting Hill either at the Portobello Road Market or, if you want a pub lunch, at the Churchill Arms.
After having lunch, make your way to Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park.
Kensington Palace
You can start your visit to Hyde Park at Kensington Palace. A ticket to the palace costs GBP 25.40 and includes an audio guide. The palace served as the Georgian royal court and the birthplace of Queen Victoria. The tour takes you through Queen Victoria's childhood, William and Mary's early years, and more.
This palace covers the history of William and Mary, Queen Victoria, and more! It is also a current royal palace and members of the royal family actively use it. I recommend using the audio guide throughout your visit but don't miss talking to the staff since they're so knowledgable.
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Hyde Park
After enjoying Kensington Palace, take a stroll through Hyde Park. Hyde Park is one of the eight royal parks in London. It's a great place to take a walk and see some views. A few park highlights are the Serpentine Lake and the Serpentine Galleries if you want to spend some time there.
This massive park can occupy your whole day! A few highlights to look for:
- Marble Arch and Wellington Arch
- Speaker's Corner
- Serpentine Lake for a boat ride or people watching
- Apsley House
- Watch the horses on Rotten Row
- Serpentine Galleries
- Rose Galleries
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If you have more time, visit the area of Knightsbridge to see the Harrods and Harvey Nichols department stores or South Kensington to see some of London's free museums.
Marylebone High Street
I recommend visiting Marylebone High Street for dinner. The high street has excellent options for pubs, fine dining, boutiques, and more. It is one of my favourite areas to visit in London and makes for a great dinner spot!
Marylebone is a charming and upscale neighborhood in central London, known for its elegant Georgian architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can explore the picturesque streets lined with boutique shops, chic cafes, and a variety of dining options. Key attractions include the impressive Marylebone High Street, renowned for its independent stores and lively atmosphere, as well as the nearby Baker Street, famous for the Sherlock Holmes Museum. The area also features the beautiful Regent’s Park, which offers expansive green spaces and the lovely Open Air Theatre. Marylebone is well-connected by public transport, with its own London Underground station, making it a convenient and appealing destination for those seeking a blend of history, culture, and sophistication.
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If you want more information or help planning a trip to London specific to you, consider booking a 30-minute consultation appointment. I'd love to help!
Drawing from my rich experiences exploring over forty countries across the globe, I offer unparalleled insights and invaluable advice to fellow travelers seeking unforgettable adventures. Whether you're planning a leisurely getaway, an off-the-beaten path expedition, or a cultural immersion, my diverse expertise ensures personalized recommendations tailored to your preferences. From hidden gems to iconic landmarks, let me and my guides, assist you on your journeys and provide you with adventures filled with discovery, authenticity, and unforgettable moments.
