3 Perfect Days in London: Complete Itinerary

Welcome to London, the buzzing capital of England. From the iconic Buckingham Palace to the captivating National Museum and the stunning London Bridge, this 3-day itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors or a long weekend getaway with friends. It will show you all the unique things to do and walk you through everything you need to know to make the most of your English city break.

Whether you are into royal history and art or looking for a fun time with a stop at some of the best shops and pubs, London is the place for you! 

Home to many attractions and historic landmarks, the capital of England and the UK is one of the best cities to visit in Europe and offers a perfect blend of traditional and modern, making it the ideal place for a deeper insight into British culture.

Walk in the footsteps of royalty at Kensington Palace, enjoy a 360-degree panorama over the capital from the London Eye, watch the Change of the Guard at Buckingham Palace and stop by Covent Garden for a shopping spree. There is so much to do!

Are you excited? Keep reading this city guide to discover the perfect 3-day itinerary covering the top things to do and enjoy your vacation stress-free – and without rushing. You will also find practical eco-friendly tips for responsible travel at the end. Enjoy!

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Overview: how to see London in 3 days

Looking for an epic road trip to Edinburgh? Check out this article:
London to Edinburgh Drive: 20+ Best Stops

London 3-day itinerary – Map

Click on the top left of the map to display the list of stops and locations.

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Detailed itinerary: 3 days in London

This London guide covers all the best things to do and see in 3 days and is perfect for travelling with family, friends or as a couple, whether it is your first time in the city or you have been there before.

On the other hand, remember that this itinerary is only a guide with recommendations. You can spend more days in the English capital or add other stops to your trip.

READ MORE: 10 Eco-Friendly & Fun Things to Do in London

Fancy some time in nature and the outdoors? Check out this article:
The 15 UK National Parks: Complete Guide

Day 1 – Westminster

1- Palace of Westminster & Big Ben

Your 3-day London getaway begins with the Palace of Westminster and the well-known Big Ben, the most famous clock in the world and an iconic tourist attraction you should not miss! 

Also known as the Houses of Parliament, you will find the Palace of Westminster on the north bank of the River Thames in the City of Westminster. It is the perfect place for a first insight into British culture and history. 

Start by walking over Westminster Bridge and the banks of the Thames for fantastic views of the clock and buildings, and do not forget your camera. 

You can then join a guided or private tour to visit the Palace of Westminster (including the House of Commons and the House of Lords) for a better overview of British democracy. With the help of your local guide, you will learn about the history of the building (and the country) and walk in the footsteps of historical figures such as Winston Churchill.

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2- Westminster Abbey

Not far from the Palace of Westminster, you will find another emblematic and unmissable landmark: Westminster Abbey. This Royal church offers daily services for all and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to the most significant collection of giant sculptures in Britain.

Since 1066, this stunning Abbey has hosted the coronations of every British Monarch, including Queen Victoria and Elizabeth II. It is also the resting place of many great monarchs, artists, scientists and politicians.

Whether or not you are a history buff or a fan of British royal heritage, this iconic church is worth the visit. 

Step through its doors to explore over a thousand years of history, marvel at the breathtaking Gothic architecture and discover the Coronation Chair, the oldest piece of furniture in the country still in use for its original purpose. 

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How long does a visit to Westminster Abbey take?
Visiting Westminster Abbey takes around 2 to 3 hours as there is so much history and heritage to discover. Of course, you can spend less time there if you wish.

Can I go to a service?
Yes, Westminster Abbey is an active place of worship where all are welcome to attend the daily services for free. There are also a few particular services throughout the year, but you might need to book your tickets in advance.

3- St. James’s Park

You continue your discovery of London with a peaceful stroll through St. James’s Park, the oldest Royal Park at the heart of the capital offering 57 acres of green space and home to The Mall and Horse Guards Parade.

Lined with renowned landmarks such as Buckingham Palace and Clarence House, the park provides a quiet space amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. 

Enjoy fantastic views over the lake from the Blue Bridge, admire the beautiful Tiffany Fountain and stop at St James’s Café for a well-deserved break. 

Once rejuvenated, walk towards Buckingham Palace along The Mall, a processional route that witnessed many historic parades over the years.

4- Buckingham Palace

It is time to discover the most iconic attraction in Britain (and arguably in the world): Buckingham Palace. The official royal residence and administrative headquarters of the Monarch is a must-see for any traveller visiting London. 

Spend time admiring this stunning monument and join a guided tour to get a deeper insight into the life of the Royal Family and learn more about the history of the palace and its traditions.

Once inside, you will have the chance to explore the 19 State Rooms and discover sumptuous apartments and splendid ornaments. You will also uncover some of the most outstanding jewels of the Royal Collection, including paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens and Canaletto. 

In addition, do not miss the Changing of the Gard, a popular free event taking place outside Buckingham Palace on specific days from 10:45, lasting around 45 minutes. So make sure to plan your visit accordingly and arrive early to secure a good spot! 

How long does it take to tour Buckingham Palace?
A tour of Buckingham Palace takes between 2h and 2h30. Of course, guided tour times may be different, so check beforehand with your provider.

UNFORGETTABLE TOURS I RECOMMEND

5- Piccadilly Circus

It is time to head to Piccadilly Circus, a famous road junction and public space built in 1819, where many locals and tourists choose to meet due to its privileged central location close to important leisure and shopping areas.

This square is one of the liveliest areas in London and one of the main places to go out partying with many bars and clubs – perfect for any traveller enjoying the nightlife.

In addition, Piccadilly Circus offers a variety of cinemas, theatres, shops and restaurants, including famous traditional English pubs.

And, of course, do not forget to sit by the notable statue of Eros and take photos in front of the iconic advertising screens!

6- Trafalgar Square & The National Gallery

Continue your walk toward the east to arrive at Trafalgar Square, a public square showcasing some of the top attractions in London, from renowned galleries and historic buildings to statues and monuments.

Once in the square, admire Nelson’s Column, take a photo with one of the famous lion statues, relax by the two stunning fountains, find the four pedestals in the corners of the square and do not miss the police box.

And, of course, one of the must-do activities in Trafalgar Square is the National Gallery, an art museum housing a remarkable collection of over 2,300 paintings from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.

The best way to explore this fascinating museum is by joining a guided tour to uncover famous artworks and learn more about the European art world.

UNFORGETTABLE TOURS I RECOMMEND

7- London Eye

You end your first day in London with the London Eye, the tallest Ferris wheel in Europe and one of the most popular tourist attractions in the UK, offering panoramic views from 135 meters above the Thames.

Hop in one of its glass pods and enjoy a stunning 360-degree panorama where you can spot the most iconic landmarks and top highlights, including Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and St Paul’s Cathedral. 

The wheel offers an ideal opportunity to slow down and watch life unfolding beneath you. It is also a perfect place to watch a beautiful sunset over the capital and admire the twinkling lights after dark. 

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How long does it take to go around the London Eye?
A rotation in one of its capsules takes around 30 minutes and gives you a unique perspective of London. If you are in a hurry or do not want to wait, buy a fast-track entry ticket to skip the queues.

Day 2 – The City of London

1- Tower Bridge

You start your second day in London with one of the most famous and recognisable landmarks in the capital: Tower Bridge.

This spectacular bridge is a must-visit on your 3-day itinerary, especially if you love taking photos, and a unique attraction with plenty to do, including walking over the glass walkway and exploring the Victorian Engine Rooms.

Enjoy scenic city views from the glass floors and high-level walkways 42 metres above the River Thames. You can also try to plan your visit with the Bridge Lift to see the roadway rise beneath your feet.

Another highlight of the site is the Victorian Engine Rooms, where you can learn more about the lives of people who operated the bridge, with a permanent exhibition showcasing their stories.

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How long is the visit to the Tower Bridge?
Visiting the Tower Bridge takes approximately 1 hour, giving you plenty of time to explore the Bridge’s Towers, Walkways and Engine Rooms.

2- Tower of London

Just next to Tower Bridge, you will find the timeless Tower of London, a historic castle and famous fortress on the north bank of the River Thames filled with culture and heritage.

Plan your visit to this iconic UNESCO World Heritage site to discover unique tales and stories and uncover over 1,000 years of its history as a royal palace, armoury and prison. 

You will also have the chance to meet the Yeoman Warders (also known as Beefeaters), spot one of the ravens (guardians of the Tower) and marvel at the Crown Jewels, a priceless symbol of the British Monarchy containing the most significant collection of crown jewels.

You guessed it, the Tower of London is a fantastic place to learn more about British history. 

UNFORGETTABLE TOURS I RECOMMEND

3- St. Paul’s Cathedral

Take time to wander along the River Thames and stop at St. Paul’s Cathedral on your journey, a 17th-century Anglican cathedral with its iconic dome, one of the largest in the world.

The cathedral is still an active place of worship today and is also one of the top sightseeing attractions in London, as an architectural masterpiece. 

So, if you have time, join a guided tour to learn more about the cathedral and its art, history and religious significance.

You will step inside its doors to explore its floor filled with paintings and mosaics, venture into the Crypt to view the tombs and memorials of world-famous figures and climb its three galleries to enjoy panoramic views from the top of the dome.

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Can I go to a service?
Yes, St. Paul’s Cathedral welcomes all to attend the daily services for free. There are also a few particular services throughout the year, but you might need to book your tickets in advance.

4- Tate Modern

Head south and cross the River Thames to explore the Tate Modern, a free art gallery home to the national collection of international modern and contemporary art.

This inspiring art museum is housed in the former Bankside Power Station on the banks of the Thames, where Turbine Hall runs the length of the entire building. 

And since the museum is free, why not add it to your bucket list? You will uncover paintings, sculptures and more made by famous artists from all over the world. Plus, it is a great thing to do on a rainy day! 

Plan a visit by yourself or join a guided tour and take the time to admire fascinating artworks by renowned artists such as Cézanne, Matisse, Picasso, Dali and Warhol.

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5- Shakespeare’s Globe

Not far from the Tate Modern, on the south bank of the River Thames, you will find the Shakespeare’s Globe, a world-renowned performing art venue and a reconstruction of the Globe Theatre, an Elizabethan playhouse for which William Shakespeare wrote his plays.

Join a guided tour of the Globe Theatre auditorium to step back into 400 years of history, where your guide will bring tales to life and illustrate how the site remains a significant venue today.

The tour runs each day and throughout the year – but check out the website beforehand to make sure it is not closed for rehearsals and performances. I also recommend you book your ticket online. 

6- Borough Market

You continue your stroll along the Thames to arrive at the Borough Market, a historic market hall and one of the largest and oldest food markets in London, dating back to at least the 12th century.

This buzzing market is a haven for foodie lovers! It features high-quality food and sustainable products and is the perfect place to connect with locals. 

From British specialities to international delights such as artisanal chocolate truffles, Indian street food and raclette, there is something for every tastebud.

And if the Borough Market is a fantastic place to buy sustainably, it is also an ideal place to eat responsibly! You will find plenty of delicious restaurants, from fresh pasta to Middle Eastern cuisine and cosy Sunday lunch.

FOOD TOURS I RECOMMEND

7- The Shard

Here you are, your last stop of the day! Cross the road to access the Shard, an impressive skyscraper designed by the Italian architect Renzo Piano and a must-do activity for its incredible views! 

The View from The Shard allows you to reach the viewing platforms at levels 68 and 69 and experience a unique 360-degree panorama over London. 

If you feel adventurous, you can also head up to the Skydeck on level 72, an open-air platform providing breathtaking views.

From the top of this iconic vertical building, you will be able to spot some of the top landmarks, such as Tower Bridge, Big Ben, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and St Paul’s Cathedral.

And for a memorable experience, try to visit the viewing platform at sunset. It is a great thing to do if you are a couple looking for a romantic evening – that is what I did with my partner. We also had a glass of champagne with our ticket. 

Day 3 – Kensington

1- Kensington Palace

You begin your last day in London with Kensington Palace, a working Royal residence with great historical importance, shaped by generations of royal women from Queen Mary to Victoria and Diana, Princess of Wales.

Join a guided tour to explore the birthplace of Queen Victoria and the home to young royals for over 300 years, and walk in the footsteps of royalty as you discover the sumptuous state apartments such as the King’s State Apartments and Queen’s State Apartments, which will shine a light on the lives of its royal residents.

And if you are more of an art lover, enjoy the stunning work of architect and painter William Kent in the Cupola Room and King’s Grand Staircase, and admire the dazzling examples of 18th-century court dresses and artworks from the Royal Collection.

UNFORGETTABLE TOURS I RECOMMEND

2- The Natural History Museum

A 3-day London itinerary could not be complete without its Natural History Museum, a fascinating museum exhibiting a vast range of specimens from various segments of natural history, with over 80 million objects spanning 4.5 billion years. 

No better place to delve into the history and past of our beautiful planet Earth! And a must-do attraction for families with children, as you will find inside many activities and interactive exhibits. 

Some of the best things to see in the Natural History Museum are the giant blue whale skeleton in Hintze Hall, the fossils in the famous Dinosaurs gallery and meteorites from outer space.

And since the museum is home to over 20 galleries and 4 areas, it might be best to plan your visit in advance and choose one zone to focus on based on your preferences and interests.

Is the Natural History Museum free?
Yes, the Natural History Museum is free to visit, but some temporary exhibitions and events might require an admission fee, so check out the website in advance. It might also be best to book your ticket online to skip the queue, especially in busy seasons.

UNFORGETTABLE TOURS I RECOMMEND

3- Victoria and Albert Museum

Right next to the Natural History Museum, you will come across the Victoria and Albert Museum, the largest museum of applied arts, decorative arts and design, housing a permanent collection of over 2.27 million objects.

Founded in 1852 and named after Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, the V&A is a fascinating place to explore, where you will find worldwide examples of architecture, painting, sculpture, fashion, textiles, ceramics and jewellery.

The museum also hosts many exhibitions and shows about fashion designers and cultural trends, including displays celebrating Christian Dior, Tim Walker and Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.

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Is the Victoria and Albert Museum free?
Yes, the Victoria and Albert Museum is free to visit, but some temporary exhibitions and events might require an admission fee, so check out the website in advance.

4- Hyde Park

Head north to reach the renowned Hyde Park, a historic Royal park with a 350-acre stretch of green land home to a large lake, cafés and sports facilities.

The park is a fantastic place to wander, relax or enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature, away from the noise of the city! 

On your journey through the park, take time to admire the Diana Memorial Fountain and stop by the Speakers’ Corner, a historic site of public protest, speeches and debates.

And throughout the year, Hyde Park also hosts many significant festivals and events, including Winter Wonderland, a large annual Christmas event featuring a buzzing market, ice rink and giant observation wheel.

5- Oxford Street

Shopping enthusiasts, Oxford Street is the place for you! On your way to Covent Garden, walk through this iconic road, the busiest shopping street in Europe, and stop by your favourite boutiques. 

With over 90 stores, from fashion and beauty to technology and homewares, it offers 1.5 miles of non-stop shopping, making it the ultimate shopper paradise.

No matter your style and budget, you will find something for you – or your family! 

And if you are more of a foodie lover, enjoy a selection of over 500 restaurants all within walking distance, whatever the time of day. 

6- Covent Garden

It is time to discover one of my favourite areas in London, Covent Garden, a shopping and entertainment hub based on an elegant and car-free square renowned for its luxury fashion, beauty stores and award-winning restaurants and theatres.

This lively and must-see destination will appeal to all travellers, whether you are into shopping, nightlife, art, history or culture. Stop by the Royal Opera House, watch street performers outside the 17th-century St. Paul’s Church or visit the London Transport Museum home vintage vehicles.

Here are some top things to do & see in Covent Garden:

• Wander through the iconic Apple Market
• Uncover the little Neal’s Yard gem
• See a show at the Royal Opera House
• Visit the London Transport Museum 
• Eat at some of the best restaurants
• Walk around Jubilee Market 

7- The British Museum

Your 3-day London itinerary ends at the British Museum, a famous public museum dedicated to human history, art and culture, where you can travel from Ancient Greece and Egypt to Africa and China through over 60 free galleries.

Home to a collection covering 2 million years of history, this fascinating museum documents the story of human culture from its beginnings to the present day.

Step inside the largest and oldest museums in the UK and explore its cultural treasures, ancient and modern, including relics from Ancient Egypt, Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome, such as Egyptian mummies, the Rosetta Stone and Parthenon Sculptures.

And alongside the extensive permanent collection, you will find frequent exhibits focusing on people, places and stories from the past and critical themes of the present and future. Check out the website before you visit to see what is on! 

UNFORGETTABLE TOURS I RECOMMEND

If you have more time…

If you have more time or would like to personalise your 3-day itinerary, here are some other places and landmarks I recommend:

• Notting Hill
• Camden Town
• Windsor Castle
• Regent’s Park
• Shoreditch
• Tate Britain

Top day trips from London

How to get to London

The best way to get to London will depend on where you come from and your budget, but there are many options to reach the capital. 

One of the quickest ways to get to London is by plane. London has multiple international airports connected to the main cities in the world. Please, try to prioritise direct flights to reduce your carbon footprint – if flying is the only option. Once at the airport, you can easily take the bus, subway or taxi to reach the city centre. 

One of the most eco-friendly ways to get to London is by train. London benefits from an extensive railway hub linking to the major European cities, including the Eurostar, connecting you to Paris in no time. 

Finally, the most affordable option is to take the coach. It is a great way to get to London if you are exploring Europe on a budget, but it can take longer. You will also find different types of coaches depending on how they cross the sea – by ferry or Eurotunnel. 

Looking for more inspiration on your UK trip? Check out this article:
30 Best & Prettiest Places to Visit in The UK

How to get around London

Once in London, you will find many options for getting around the capital. 

The best way (eco-friendly too) to travel around London is on foot. The city is vast, so I suggest you focus on one area each day to have the main attractions within walking distance of each other. 

That is what I tried to do for this 3-day guide, so you can easily explore the capital on foot, even on a short day trip or weekend getaway. Plus, it is the perfect way to see the best sights whilst exercising!

Walking will allow you to soak up the wonderful local atmosphere and find hidden gems you might otherwise miss. 

The second best option to get around London is by public transport. The English capital has a reliable and efficient transportation network that will take you anywhere in no time. It is one of the quickest ways to travel around the city, but it can get quite expensive, so check out the passes available beforehand if you plan to use the subway and bus a lot.

The last and fun option is to travel around London by bike. It is a fantastic way to get around the city whilst reducing your carbon footprint! However, I recommend being careful of the cars and traffic if you are exploring the capital with children.

And, of course, London taxis are also an option if you would like a private ride to a specific location or from/to the airport – but not the most cost-efficient way to get around + do not forget to carry cash.

Fancy an epic road trip in Scotland? Check out this article:
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Shop the printable travel itinerary

Create your dream city break & live a unique experience in London!

Where to stay in London

Are you looking for the best place to stay in London for 3 days? Here is an overview of the top neighbourhoods in the English capital:

• Covent Garden: the best neighbourhood for first-timers due to its central location and access to the main attractions and landmarks, including Trafalgar Square, Big Ben and Buckingham Palace.

• South Bank: the best area to stay in London for families due to its excellent location near the city centre and all the child-friendly activities it offers, from London Eye to SEA LIFE.

• Camden: the best place to stay in London to soak up the bohemian and local vibes, known for its famous market and live music scene. It is also a great area to stay in for budget travellers! 

• Soho: the best district for nightlife, vibrant atmosphere and trendy shops. This energetic hub is perfect for living the best of the English capital and connecting with locals.

• Notting Hill: with its charming atmosphere and pastel buildings, it is the best area to stay in London for couples looking for a romantic getaway. The neighbourhood is also great for food lovers. 

Planning a hike to the Lake District? Check out this article:
10 Best Easy Walks & Hikes in The Lake District

Best time to visit London

The best time to visit London is in late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October) when the weather is nice and sunny, but the city is not overcrowded, perfect for sightseeing.

Summer and Christmas are the busiest seasons for tourists and the most expensive times to visit London, so keep that in mind. 

If you are travelling on a budget, January and February would be the best options, but be ready for the cold and rain. 

Are you more into camping and the outdoors? Check out this article:
10 Best Campsites in Snowdonia National Park

London Pass: what you need to know

The London Pass is a package of digital sightseeing credits giving you access to over 90 attractions, tours and museums.

Thanks to the pass, you will save money whilst enjoying the top things to do and see in the capital. Choose the duration, download it to your phone and scan it at the entrance to each attraction.

You will be able to access a selection of the best highlights and landmarks, including the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Windsor Castle, Kensington Palace and more.

👉🏻 BOOK YOUR PASS

Looking for a perfect Eindburgh guide? Check out this article:
3 Magical Days in Edinburgh: City Itinerary

Tips for reducing your eco-impact in London

Sustainable travel means exploring the world whilst being aware of your surroundings and having a positive social, environmental and economic impact on the places you visit.

Being a responsible traveller in London is possible! Here are some eco-friendly travel tips for reducing your carbon footprint:

• Use the train to reach the English capital. London is incredibly well-connected by train to the rest of the world, so prioritise travelling this way to lower your carbon impact.

• If you need to take the plane, book direct flights (which require less fuel than indirect flights) and offset your carbon footprint. But, do not use carbon offsetting as a complete solution. Combine it with other sustainable practices, like avoiding single-use plastic on the plane and mindfully packing your suitcase for your green city break. 

• Select an eco-friendly accommodation. It is not always easy to determine whether a hotel has eco-conscious practices, but try to look on their website for green credentials and ask questions. You can also use Bookdifferent or Ecobnb to help you decide.

• Once there, use public transport. London has an efficient public transport network that can take you anywhere easily and fast. Another way to get around sustainably is on foot. But if walking is too tiring, use the bike! The capital is ideal for cycling around at your own pace.

• Eat at local restaurants that use produce from the area and emphasise organic and sustainability. It will contribute to the local economy and reduce your carbon footprint by supporting restaurants where food does not come from long distances.

• Always respect the local heritage. Treat people and their surroundings with respect. Sustainable travel is not only about the environment but also about the local communities. So, always be respectful, smile and talk to the locals.

More inspiration for your green vacation:

• Best Travel Apps for Exploring Sustainably
• 15 Travel Books to Inspire Your Next Eco-Adventure
• Best Ecotourism Activities Around the World

Eco-friendly gear you might love:

• 10 Best Sustainable Backpacks for Travel & Hiking
• 10 Best Reusable & Eco-Friendly Travel Mugs
• 8 Best Filtered Water Bottles for Travel & Hiking

Check out this page for more inspiration on eco-friendly products & gear.

London travel planning guide

🚑 Should I buy travel insurance to travel to London?
Yes, buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Enjoy your city break in London stress-free with one of my favourite providers, Nomad Insurance.

💧 Can you drink the water in London?
Yes, tap water is safe to drink all over London. However, I also recommend travelling with the UltraPress Purifier Bottle, a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated.

🚗 Is it easy to rent a car in London?
Yes, renting a car in London is easy and is a great way to explore the English countryside freely. I recommend booking yours with Rentalcars.com – they offer a variety of operators for all budgets.

🏨 How to book accommodation in London?
The best way to book your accommodation in London is with Booking.com – my favourite platform to compare and reserve places to stay each night, from affordable guesthouses to luxury hotels.

✈️ What is the best site to buy a flight to London?
I recommend booking your plane with Skyscanner. It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering my carbon emissions.

3 days in London – FAQ

And you, have you ever visited London or would you like to go one day? 
Let me know in the comments below!

With love ♡
Lucie