The Ultimate 3-Day London Itinerary: Must-See Attractions & Hidden Gems
- Shruti Lal
- Oct 28, 2024
- 7 min read
Updated: Jan 11
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Are you planning a trip to London and want to make the most of your time in this iconic city? From historic palaces to modern marvels, London has something for every traveler. In this 3-day itinerary, I’ll guide you through some of London’s top sights and share tips for exploring like a local. So grab your camera, wear comfortable shoes, and let’s dive into London’s best!
Plan your Activities:
I recommend making plans for each day. I have provided the itinerary I made. You can take this itinerary as a starting point and make yours. Use the following websites to book tours and buy tickets to the museums, monuments, parks, etc.
Day 1: A Royal Introduction to London
Buckingham Palace
Begin your London journey with a visit to Buckingham Palace. It has been the official London residence of the British monarchy since Queen Victoria's reign in 1837. Built in 1703 for the Duke of Buckingham, it was acquired by King George III in 1761 and has since evolved into a symbol of the British royal family.
Changing of the Guard Ceremony
Be sure to arrive early to catch the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony, where the Queen’s Guard marches in their classic red tunics and bearskin hats. It's a true slice of British tradition. This tradition dates back to the 17th century and is rooted in the military duty of protecting the monarch. The ceremony involves the Old Guard handing over responsibility to the New Guard in a display of British pageantry and precision.
Palace Gardens
Stroll through the nearby Palace Gardens and enjoy the beautiful landscaping. This serene area offers a chance to relax and take in the scenery, with well-maintained lawns, seasonal blooms, and maybe even a glimpse of royal grounds from a distance. Originally designed as a private garden for the royal family, the Palace Gardens cover 39 acres and are known for their diverse flora, including a 200-year-old mulberry tree. This tranquil retreat contrasts with the hustle of central London and is rarely open to the public.
British Museum
Next, dive into one of the world’s most famous museums, the British Museum. Its vast collection spans thousands of years, showcasing artifacts like the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies. Best of all, entry is free. Founded in 1753, the British Museum was the first public national museum in the world. Its collection spans over two million years of history and includes notable artifacts like the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles.
Tower of London
No London visit is complete without exploring the Tower of London. This historic fortress dates back over 1,000 years and has a storied, sometimes dark history as a royal residence, prison, and execution site. Don’t miss the Crown Jewels, housed within the White Tower. Built in 1078 by William the Conqueror, the Tower of London has served as a royal residence, fortress, prison, and treasury. It’s also famously known as the site of several executions and houses the Crown Jewels.
St. Paul’s Cathedral
Head to St. Paul’s Cathedral to see one of London’s most breathtaking domes. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city, or simply marvel at the stunning architecture and its role in British ceremonies, including royal weddings and funerals. Designed by Sir Christopher Wren after the Great Fire of London in 1666, St. Paul’s Cathedral features one of the largest domes in the world. It has hosted numerous important events, including the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana in 1981.
The Shard
End the day at The Shard, where you can enjoy a bird’s eye view of London. Completed in 2012, The Shard is the tallest building in the UK at 1,016 feet. Whether you choose to enjoy a meal or just take in the skyline, it's a memorable way to end your first day. Its glass exterior was designed to reflect the sky and London’s river, and it offers stunning views of the city skyline.
The National Gallery
If you have extra time, stop by The National Gallery in Trafalgar Square. Founded in 1824, the National Gallery houses over 2,300 paintings dating from the mid-13th century to the early 20th century. Its collections include masterpieces from artists like Van Gogh, da Vinci, and Monet, it’s a must-see for art lovers.
Day 2: Modern & Classic London
Tower Bridge/London Bridge
Kick off Day 2 by walking across the iconic Tower Bridge. This Victorian-era bridge is a marvel of engineering, and you can take a tour to see its inner workings or simply enjoy views from the pedestrian walkway. Built between 1886 and 1894, Tower Bridge was designed as a bascule (drawbridge) to accommodate the increase in Thames River traffic. The Victorian Gothic-style bridge remains one of London’s most recognized landmarks.
The London Eye
Get a true bird’s-eye view from The London Eye. This giant Ferris wheel offers a 30-minute rotation with sweeping views of London landmarks like Big Ben, St. Paul’s, and the River Thames. Pro tip: Book tickets in advance to skip the lines. Unveiled in 2000, the London Eye was originally intended as a temporary installation for the millennium celebration. Standing at 443 feet, it was the world’s tallest Ferris wheel and provides sweeping views of the London skyline.
South Bank
Afterward, explore the South Bank for an eclectic mix of street performers, food markets, and arts venues. This riverside stretch is perfect for a leisurely walk and discovering unique cafes and pop-up shops. The South Bank area was revitalized post-WWII and has since become a cultural hub with theaters, galleries, and cafes. Highlights include the Royal Festival Hall and the Tate Modern, which draw locals and tourists alike.
Tate Modern
Art lovers should stop by Tate Modern opened in 2000, a contemporary art museum housed in a former power station. With constantly changing exhibitions and impressive installations, this museum showcases contemporary and modern art from famous artists like Picasso, Warhol, and Hockney.
Big Ben
Close out the day with a view of Big Ben. Though tours inside aren’t available to everyone, seeing this iconic clock tower up close is a London essential. Big Ben is actually the nickname for the Great Bell inside the Elizabeth Tower, which was completed in 1859. The clock tower is an enduring symbol of London and is part of the Palace of Westminster.
Day 3: Historical & Cultural Highlights
Westminster Abbey
Start your final day with Westminster Abbey, the stunning Gothic cathedral known for royal coronations and ceremonies, including the wedding of Prince William and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge. Be sure to stop by Poet’s Corner, where legends like Chaucer and Dickens are memorialized. Founded in 960 AD, Westminster Abbey has been the coronation church since 1066 and houses the tombs of many British royals and notable figures including Newton, Darwin and Hawking. Poet’s Corner, established in the 14th century, commemorates famous writers like Chaucer, Dickens, and Hardy.
Hyde Park
Spend some time in Hyde Park, one of London’s largest green spaces. Relax at Serpentine Lake or pay your respects at the Diana Memorial Fountain, a tribute to the beloved Princess of Wales. Serpentine Lake, created in 1730, is a popular boating spot in Hyde Park. Nearby, the Diana Memorial Fountain was built in 2004 to honor Princess Diana, featuring a unique design symbolizing her inclusiveness and generosity. Once a private hunting ground for Henry VIII, Hyde Park opened to the public in 1637. Today, it’s a beloved green space where locals and visitors relax, attend concerts, and enjoy outdoor activities.
Kensington Palace & Albert Memorial
Head over to Kensington Palace, the home of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. Walk through the beautiful palace gardens, then take a short stroll to the Ornate Albert Memorial, a grand tribute to Queen Victoria’s husband. Kensington Palace has served as a royal residence since the 17th century and is currently home to the Prince and Princess of Wales. Across from the palace stands the Albert Memorial, a grand monument built by Queen Victoria in memory of her husband, Prince Albert.
West End Theater District & Leicester Square
No visit to London would be complete without exploring the West End Theater District. Whether you catch a show or simply take in the atmosphere, this area buzzes with life and offers plenty of entertainment, dining, and shopping options. Stop by Leicester Square for movie premieres or Piccadilly Circus for the city’s version of Times Square. London’s West End theater district dates back to the late 17th century and is home to famous theaters like the Royal Opera House. Nearby Leicester Square is a hotspot for entertainment, dining, and cinema premieres.
Piccadilly Circus
Piccadilly Circus, established in 1819, is famous for its large, neon billboards and its central location at the heart of London’s entertainment and shopping areas.
Oxford Street
For shopping lovers, Oxford Street is a paradise of stores and boutiques. From designer outlets to flagship stores, this shopping street has something for everyone. With origins tracing back to Roman times, Oxford Street is now Europe’s busiest shopping street, boasting over 300 shops and flagship stores.
Portobello Road Market & Notting Hill
Wrap up your London adventure with a visit to Portobello Road Market in the charming area of Notting Hill. Known for its colorful houses and vintage shops, this market offers unique finds, from antiques to one-of-a-kind souvenirs. Dating back to the 19th century, Portobello Road Market in Notting Hill is famous for its antiques, fashion, and food stalls. The area’s vibrant, pastel-colored homes make it a favorite among photographers and tourists.
Final Thoughts
London is a city with layers of history, charm, and excitement. Whether you’re captivated by its royal heritage, artistic treasures, or bustling neighborhoods, this itinerary ensures you’ll experience the best of what London has to offer. Make sure to check out the video for more footage and insights, and happy travels!
Here are a few of the travel accessories I personally use:
5. Hydro flask
8. Backpack
11. FlipBelt
12. Lock
16. Apple AirTag
18. Portable Charger
Book your flight or hotel :
Book tours and buy tickets to the museums, monuments, parks, etc.
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