Have you ever dreamt of walking beside Big Ben, strolling through vibrant markets, or feeling the history in the Tower of London? London isn’t just a city; it’s an experience.
Let’s get straight to it, in this guide, we’ll help you explore everything that makes a 3-day London itinerary truly unforgettable!
Photo by Benjamin Davies on Unsplash
What You Should Know Before Planning a Vacation to London
Planning a trip to London doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are some essentials you should know for your journey.
What is the Best Time to Visit London for Good Weather?
The best time for sunshine in London is from June to August when it’s typically sunny. But be prepared because these months can get busy and popular spots might have longer lines. If you want to avoid crowds and like moderate temperatures, try spring (April-May) or fall (September-October).
How to Get Around London?
The best way to get around London is by the Underground (the “Tube”). Buses are another good option and a good chance to take in the sights. If you like to travel your own way you might also like to bike or take a stroll and absorb the ambience.
Photo by Tomas Anton Escobar on Unsplash
How Many Days Should You Spend in London?
To really see all of London’s cool landmarks and have a relaxed time, a 3-day London itinerary works just fine.
Where to stay in London for 3 days?
There’s no shortage of choices, from fancy and luxurious areas to energetic parts. Here are a few districts that are popular for short stays:
- The West End: Perfect if you’re keen on theater, shopping, or buzzing nightlife. Great spots such as Piccadilly Circus and Oxford Street are very convenient.
- South Bank: Great place if you’re into museums, galleries, and iconic London sights.
Is London Expensive for Travelers?
Yes, London can be quite pricey, but it’s totally doable without breaking the bank. There’s good news because you don’t have to buy everything; plenty of attractions are free to view and walk around such as many great parks, and other sightseeing.
How Long Will It Take to Explore London Fully?
You could honestly spend a whole year exploring London and there’d always be more to discover. But, if you are looking to see the top attractions and get a proper feel for the city, it takes a good few days like, three to five days to do so.
How to Stay Connected with Mobile Data in London?
Stay connected effortlessly in London with Yoho Mobile, your reliable mobile data partner for exploring London without limits!
- Instant setup—no physical SIM needed.
- Flexible data plans—local, regional, and global.
- Competitive pricing—best GB rates.
- 24/7 support—help anytime you need it.
- Avoid roaming fees—pay only for what you use.
- Trusted by travelers worldwide
Exclusive Offer for Our Readers!Enjoy a 12% discount on your orders with Yoho Mobile. Use the code YOHOREADERSAVE at checkout. Stay connected and save more on your trips with our eSIM. Don’t miss out—start saving today! |
What to See and Do in London in Three Days?
If you only have three days in London, explore landmarks like the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and Big Ben. Visit the British Museum, take a stroll in Hyde Park, and enjoy the views from the London Eye. Explore neighborhoods like Covent Garden and Camden, and enjoy the West End theatre scene.
What to Pack for 3 Days in London?
It’s crucial to pack smart for London’s weather which can change rapidly throughout the day, make sure you include an umbrella and a light jacket. Don’t forget your camera to capture everything. It’s also great to pack a light backpack so you can carry some snacks and water with you!
The Best of London in Three Days:
Day 1 in London
Kick off your 3 days London itinerary in the heart of London at Westminster. Here, the world-famous Big Ben (officially known as Elizabeth Tower, but shh! We won’t tell!) and the Houses of Parliament stand tall.
Start your exploration right at Westminster Station, where you’ll be instantly greeted by these majestic structures. For a truly unforgettable photo opportunity, head to Westminster Bridge at sunrise; the lighting is incredible and the crowds are usually smaller at that time. Alternatively, a Thames River cruise can offer an amazing unique perspective of these landmarks. Afterwards make your way towards Westminster Abbey, a true Gothic masterpiece that has been the location of many royal coronations and weddings. Inside you can discover so much fascinating British history through the amazing architecture.
Image by Squirrel_photos from Pixabay
Next, you should move to Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the Monarch, to see the Changing of the Guard ceremony which is truly an iconic British experience. Usually scheduled at 11:00 am, the times may vary so it’s worth a quick check ahead of the day.
For the best viewing, try arriving around 45 minutes early and securing a spot near the Victoria Memorial, directly facing the palace gates. Once you have been through these monuments, find yourself a quieter moment with a stroll at Hyde Park, which provides a real breather in this urban space.
Tip: To help your journey from Buckingham Palace to Covent Garden run even smoother why not look up a detailed walking route? It can truly help to enhance your experience. By knowing all of the options available you’re less likely to miss out on anything along the way!
Photo by Patrick Robert Doyle on Unsplash
If you’re feeling up for it, why not rent a paddleboat on The Serpentine Lake and make the most of a little chill-out, enjoying a slower moment? This is the ideal moment for a small recharge in one of the largest of the Royal Parks that the city has.
Finally, it’s time to finish your exciting day at Covent Garden Market! Dive into this bustling area with its vast range of shops, street performances, and delicious food options. So, it’s definitely worth staying around until later in the evening. Why not give yourself an additional moment and perhaps enjoy a tasty dessert at Balthazar before completely calling it a night, after an incredible start to an equally incredible 3 days in London?
Day 2 in London
Day two of your 3 day London itinerary is when the adventure truly begins! Start your day at the Tower Bridge, you can walk across its amazing glass floor and get the most fantastic views over the River Thames and it’s absolutely an experience you have to try.
Then make sure you get a ticket to visit the Tower of London right next door, with a 1,000-year history. You can’t miss this must-see place where many kings and queens once lived, be sure to explore the Crown Jewels and look out for the famous black ravens! The Yeoman Warder Tour is also included in your ticket, make sure to not miss out as the Beefeater guide tells many tales of the tower’s rich and unique history.
Photo by Charles Postiaux on Unsplash
Visit the Sky Garden, located in the “Walkie Talkie” building, which gives a unique feel to enjoying high views of London! It’s really unique because it’s a green space that is high up. A fantastic recommendation would be to visit in the early morning or right before sunset.
Then immerse yourself in the famous Borough Market, definitely a must for foodies and you can really enjoy loads of amazing foods and drinks. You should check the many food stalls. Try a Scotch egg, duck confit wraps, or why not a fresh oyster or two! I suggest you get there by noon so you have the chance to explore the fresh products to their full potential.
Photo by Tom Fischer on Unsplash
This foodie adventure makes a perfect pairing to the sightseeing of your day and also maybe a day trip to other locations through companies such as GetYourGuide so that you may see what tours suit you best for the next day.
Finally, finish up the day with the vibrant lights of Piccadilly Circus and explore the nearby Soho’s nightlife space. Maybe see a show at one of its amazing theaters.
Additional Pro Tip: To travel through the city consider using an Oyster card, and contactless payment so you can quickly explore the buses and trains which saves so much time navigating around this wonderful space!
Day 3 in London
Day 3 of this incredible London itinerary will be no less exciting just because it is the last day. So, you can definitely get ready to go home and share all your stories with your family and friends about this great experience!
We can start our day by checking out the incredible Kensington Museums. See amazing pieces from the fashion, art, and design of the V&A, or go into a world of Earth’s wonders of all shapes and forms, at the Natural History Museum where you’ll see many unique exhibits. The most impressive part for most people in the Natural History Museum is the awe-inspiring blue whale skeleton in Hintze Hall, so it is one of the most must-see attractions! Best of all? Entry to both is completely free!
Photo by Gilley Aguilar on Unsplash
Then take a short walk or even take the Tube to Notting Hill. If you’re in London on a Friday or Saturday, Portobello Market is a must-visit, with many stalls offering an endless range of unique antiques and amazing street food. Take plenty of time for a good walk to find amazing treasures. The must-have things are usually at the paella and crepe stalls so you must get a great meal from one of the street foods on offer.
As for the perfect spot to make memories and photos? Head to the pastel-colored houses on Lancaster Road for truly unforgettable photos, and be sure to visit the blue door from the famous Notting Hill movie. These sights must not be missed, but they can get very busy, so ensure you make them part of the journey!
Lastly, for your grand finale for London, there’s nothing better than to enjoy a wonderful afternoon tea! You have so many amazing and special options such as The Ritz for an absolutely elegant and luxurious tea experience or head to Brown’s Hotel which mixes old historical with modern, innovative tea ideas.
All in all, don’t forget to explore the best of London, ending at an ideal cultural spot like these. On your way, use Citymapper or use the London tube map on Google Maps to find the best walking directions. Stay fully aware of what you’re navigating at all times for perfect transport options.
Is London Worth Visiting?
Absolutely, London is without a shadow of a doubt a definite MUST-see! You will make life-long memories as you witness historic sites, a vibrant culture, and all things awesome. This 3-day London itinerary provides just enough time for all types of people to be inspired and enjoy many unforgettable and varied experiences that you might have dreamed about but you have to experience it to fully realize the unique magic that this great capital has to offer!