Planning a 3-day trip to London? Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, this city never fails to impress. From centuries-old landmarks to buzzing markets and cozy pubs, London blends history, culture, and modern charm like no other city. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the perfect 3-day London itinerary that captures the best of the city — and includes tips only locals (or frequent visitors) would kno
Day 1: Classic London – Royals, Landmarks & River Walks
Morning: Buckingham Palace & Westminster Highlights
Start your first morning in St. James’s Park, one of the most picturesque parks in London. From here, walk to Buckingham Palace to catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony (usually around 11 AM.
From there, it’s a short stroll to:
Westminster Abbey (a UNESCO site and coronation church since 1066)
Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament
The London Eye (book tickets in advance here)
Lunch: Southbank Eats
Head across Westminster Bridge to the Southbank. Grab lunch at Gabriel’s Wharf or try street food from Southbank Centre Food Market (open Fri–Sun).
Afternoon: Thames River Walk
Enjoy a scenic walk along the Thames past:
The Tate Modern
Shakespeare’s Globe
Millennium Bridge
- Pop into the Tate if you’re into contemporary art — it’s free!
Evening: Borough Market & Views from The Shard
Dinner at Borough Market is a must. Try Padella for handmade pasta or Wright Brothers for fresh oysters. End your day with panoramic views from The Shard’s Skydeck (book here) — sunset is the best time.
Day 2: Museums, Shopping & West End Magic
Morning: Kensington Museums or Notting Hill
You have two great options:
Museum morning in South Kensington (all free): Natural History Museum, V&A, and Science Museum — all walking distance.
Or stroll through Notting Hill and visit Portobello Road Market (best on Saturdays).
Lunch: Local Favorites
Try Dishoom Kensington (a Bombay-style café with brunch options) or grab a sandwich from Gail’s Bakery if you’re on the move.
Afternoon: Covent Garden & Shopping
Spend your afternoon in Covent Garden exploring:
Street performers at the piazza
Unique shops and boutiques
Tea at Whittard of Chelsea or Mariage Frères
Want to shop more? Head to:
Oxford Street (Primark to Selfridges)
Regent Street for mid to high-end brands
Carnaby Street for indie labels and cool cafes
Evening: West End Show
No London visit is complete without a West End performance. Popular picks include:
Les Misérables (classic)
Hamilton (modern masterpiece)
Phantom of the Opera (hauntingly beautiful)
Book tickets via Official London Theatre.
Day 3: Hidden Gems & Iconic Farewell
Morning: Camden Town & Regent’s Canal
Explore Camden Market — a hub for vintage clothes, crafts, and global street food. Walk along Regent’s Canal to Little Venice — a peaceful, underrated part of the city.
Or hike up to Primrose Hill for panoramic skyline views (a local favorite sunrise/sunset spot).
Lunch: Alfresco & Laid-back
Camden has endless food stalls. Go for:
The Cheese Bar (yes, all things cheese)
Mildreds Camden (great veggie options)
Or grab a box of Halloumi fries and eat by the canal
Afternoon: British Museum or Sky Garden
If you have energy left, the British Museum (home to the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies) is an enriching last stop. It’s free, but you can book a timed entry for less waiting.
Alternatively, enjoy a drink at the Sky Garden – London’s highest public garden (book free tickets here).
Evening: Farewell Dinner in Soho
Wrap up your trip with dinner in Soho, London’s go-to for buzzing nightlife and fantastic food. Options:
Kiln (Thai BBQ)
Palomar (Jerusalem-style small plates)
Barrafina (no-reservation Spanish tapas)
Bonus Tips for Your 3-Day London Trip
Oyster Card or Contactless: Get an Oyster card or just tap your debit/credit card for Tube and bus travel — it’s fast and cheaper.
Download Citymapper: The best app for navigating London’s public transport in real time.
Wear comfy shoes: You’ll walk a lot — cobblestones and tube stairs are no joke.
Best times to visit: Late spring (May–June) or early autumn (September) offer pleasant weather without peak crowds.
FAQs – London 3-Day Itinerary
Is 3 days enough to see London?
Yes, 3 days is perfect for hitting major sights and discovering a few hidden gems if you plan well.
Do I need to book attractions in advance?
For popular spots like the London Eye, Shard, or West End shows, booking ahead is smart — especially in summer or holidays.
Can I use Uber or public transport?
Public transport is more reliable during peak hours. Taxis and Uber are better for late nights or airport runs.
Are museums really free?
Yes! Most of London’s world-class museums are free (British Museum, V&A, Tate Modern, etc.).
Final Thoughts
Three days in London is enough to fall in love — with its skyline, its secrets, and its character. Whether you’re wandering royal parks, sipping pints in historic pubs, or watching the lights of the West End come alive, London delivers an unforgettable experience.
Looking for more local tips and travel inspiration across the UK? Check out my full UK travel section for hidden gems, guides, and real-life travel insights.
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I am Sabiq Rasel is an Entrepreneur and broadcaster. I believe that every sip of coffee holds the potential for a moment of inspiration, creativity, and every cup tells a story.
