London 3 Day Itinerary

3-Day London Itinerary

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Generator London (hostel), The Z Hotel Piccadilly
  • Mid-Range: Premier Inn County Hall, The Hoxton Shoreditch
  • Luxury: The Savoy, The Dorchester

Transportation:

  • Oyster Card: Essential for navigating the Underground and buses. Purchase at any Tube station or online.
  • Walking: London is surprisingly walkable, especially within central zones.
  • Black Cabs: Iconic but expensive. Use ride-hailing apps like Uber for cheaper alternatives.

Things to Know:

  • Currency: British Pounds (£)
  • Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated (around 10-15%). Service charges are often included in restaurant bills.
  • Weather: Be prepared for unpredictable weather year-round, pack layers!

Day 1: Royal London and Theatrical Delights

Morning:

  • Buckingham Palace: Witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony (check times online).
  • St James’s Park: Stroll through this beautiful park with stunning views of Buckingham Palace.
  • Westminster Abbey: Explore this historic abbey, coronation church of British monarchs.

Afternoon:

  • Houses of Parliament & Big Ben: Admire these iconic landmarks from across the Thames.
  • Lunch: Grab a bite at The Red Lion Pub (traditional pub fare) or Dishoom Carnaby (delicious Indian food).

Evening:

  • West End Show: Experience London’s vibrant theatre scene. Book tickets in advance for popular shows.
  • Dinner: Enjoy a pre-theatre meal at Joe Allen (American cuisine) or The Ivy (classic British dishes).

Day 2: History, Art, and Markets

Morning:

  • Tower of London: Explore the historic fortress, see the Crown Jewels, and hear tales of its past.
  • Tower Bridge: Walk across this iconic bridge for stunning views of the city.

Afternoon:

  • Tate Modern: Immerse yourself in modern and contemporary art at this world-renowned gallery.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a casual lunch at Tate Modern’s café or explore Borough Market (a foodie paradise) nearby.

Evening:

  • Shakespeare’s Globe: Catch a performance at this reconstructed Elizabethan theatre.
  • Dinner: Dine in Southbank with riverside views, try The Anchor Bankside (traditional pub) or Hawksmoor Seven Dials (steakhouse).

Day 3: Quirky Charms and Park Life

Morning:

  • British Museum: Explore ancient history and artifacts from around the world.
  • Covent Garden Market: Wander through this lively market with street performers, shops, and restaurants.
  • Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a Covent Garden restaurant like Balthazar (French bistro) or The Ivy Market Grill (modern British).

Afternoon:

  • Hyde Park: Relax in London’s largest Royal park, rent a boat on the Serpentine Lake, or visit Kensington Palace.

Evening:

  • Camden Town: Explore this vibrant and alternative neighborhood with its eclectic markets, street art, and live music venues.
  • Dinner: Enjoy a diverse range of cuisines in Camden Town, from Thai food at The Hawley Arms to vegan fare at Mildreds.

Tips for Travelers:

  • Purchase a London Pass for discounted entry to attractions.
  • Book accommodation and flights in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Pack comfortable shoes for walking.
  • Download offline maps and transportation apps.
  • Learn a few basic British phrases.