London United Kingdom 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Classic London Landmarks

Morning

  • Start at Trafalgar Square, a vibrant public space surrounded by iconic landmarks like the National Gallery and St Martin-in-the-Fields church.
  • Grab a coffee and pastry at Café in the Crypt, a unique spot located beneath the church.

Afternoon

  • Take a short walk to Whitehall and visit Horse Guards Parade, where you can watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony (daily at 11:30 am from April to July and on alternate days the rest of the year).
  • Continue to Big Ben (now officially known as the Elizabeth Tower) and take a stroll along the South Bank of the Thames, offering great views of the city.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Skylon, a modern British restaurant with stunning views of the river.
  • Catch a show or concert at the National Theatre or Southbank Centre.

Where to Stay

Consider staying in the Westminster or Lambeth areas, which offer easy access to many of London’s main attractions. Budget-friendly options include: + Hub by Premier Inn, a stylish and affordable hotel chain. + ** Meininger London**, a social hostel with dorms and private rooms.

Transportation

  • Use the efficient London Underground (Tube) network to get around the city. Buy a ** Visitor Oyster Card** for discounts and convenience.
  • Take advantage of contactless payment options, like credit cards or mobile devices, to pay for public transportation.

Tips and Insights

  • Be prepared for variable British weather and pack accordingly.
  • Take breaks from sightseeing to rest your feet and recharge at one of London’s many parks, such as St James’s Park or Green Park.

Day 2: Royal London

Morning

  • Visit Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch, and watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony (daily at 11:30 am from April to July and on alternate days the rest of the year).
  • Explore the nearby St James’s Park, a beautiful green space with great views of the palace.

Afternoon

  • Head to Kensington Palace, where you can explore the State Rooms, exhibitions, and gardens. Be sure to book tickets in advance.
  • Visit the adjacent Hyde Park, one of London’s largest parks, featuring the famous Diana Memorial Playground.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at The Delaunay, a grand café-restaurant serving European cuisine.
  • Take a stroll along Kensington High Street, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Where to Stay (Alternative)

If you prefer to stay in the Kensington area, consider: + The Rembrandt, a stylish hotel with a relaxing atmosphere. + Generator London, a trendy hostel with dorms and private rooms.

Things to Know

  • Be respectful of the royal family and their residences; avoid taking photos inside the palaces or disturbing the guards.
  • Take advantage of London’s many free museums and galleries, such as the Natural History Museum or V&A Museum.

Day 3: Cultural London

Morning

  • Visit the world-famous British Museum, home to over 8 million objects from around the globe. Highlights include the Rosetta Stone, mummies, and the Elgin Marbles.
  • Grab lunch at The Great Court Restaurant, offering international cuisine in a stunning setting.

Afternoon

  • Explore the vibrant Shoreditch neighborhood, known for its street art, independent shops, and trendy cafes.
  • Visit the Tate Modern, a museum of modern and contemporary art housed in a former power station. The Turbine Hall is a must-see.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Padella, a fresh pasta bar with delicious Italian dishes.
  • Catch a live music or comedy performance at The Old Blue Last or Village Underground.

Where to Stay (Alternative)

If you prefer to stay in the Shoreditch area, consider: + One Hundred Shoreditch, a stylish hotel with a rooftop bar. + Qbic Hotel London City, an eco-friendly hotel with compact rooms.

Tips and Insights

  • Take advantage of London’s many street food markets, like Borough Market or Street Feast, for a taste of international cuisine.
  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions; plan your itinerary accordingly.

Additional tips and insights:

  • Purchase a London Pass for free entry to over 80 top attractions and experiences.
  • Take a guided tour, such as the Jack the Ripper Tour, to delve deeper into London’s history and culture.
  • Don’t forget to try some classic British pub grub, like fish and chips or bangers and mash!