London, England: The Ultimate 2-day TRAVEL ITINERARY
London, with a history spanning two millennia, is one of the most famous cities in the world and a popular travel destination for all. The contrast between the plethora of historic landmarks, the pace of a big city, and the thriving cultural and food scene makes London one of my all-time favorite cities to visit. Wander through St. James park, visit Westminster Abbey, explore the streets of Shoreditch, and take a ride up the River Thames. London's incredible shopping, endless sights, friendly locals, and vibrant nightlife offer something for every kind of traveler. Here are my ultimate London travel tips and 48-hour itinerary for planning your trip to England!
BEFORE THE TRIP:
Trip Planning: There is so much to see and do in London alone that you could spend weeks or months exploring the city and surrounding areas. Whether it be a weekend trip or a few days, there is plenty to fill the time. Think about the types of things you want to see and do and then go from there (want to do the Harry Potter Studio Tour? Dedicate an entire day!) - but keep in mind that London is geographically a BIG city, and it can take a while to get from place to place. Below you’ll find my tried and true 48-Hours in London itinerary, but know that it’s a pretty jam-packed schedule! If you want to take it easy, best give yourself a few extra days to spread things out.
Where to Stay: London is a big city with a variety of neighborhoods to choose from, each with its own unique atmosphere and hotels. Some popular options include:
West End: Known for its theaters, shopping, and nightlife, the West End is a bustling area perfect for those who want to be in the heart of the action.
South Kensington: This upscale neighborhood is known for its museums, including the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Greenwich: This historic neighborhood is located on the banks of the River Thames and is home to the Royal Observatory, the Cutty Sark, and the Maritime Museum.
Shoreditch: Located in East London, Shoreditch is a trendy neighborhood with a vibrant arts and cultural scene, as well as an abundance of street art and boutique shops.
Covent Garden: This central neighborhood is known for its historic market and street performers, as well as its shopping and dining options.
Pre-booking Tours, Tickets, and Dining Reservations: If you know your travel dates, I highly recommend pre-booking everything you can! London gets busy, and knowing that you won’t have to wait to do your activity or have a meal will help you maximize your time efficiently. Below I’ll link some of my favorite tours, activities, and restaurants.
Tickets:
Tours:
Restaurants:
Afternoon Tea at sketch or Fortnum & Mason
DURING THE TRIP:
Getting Around: London is a large city, but it is well connected by public transportation and has a comprehensive network of trains, buses, and boats to help you get around. Here are some of the best options for getting around the city:
London Underground (the "Tube"): This is London's famous subway system and is a fast, convenient, and cost-effective way to get around the city. It operates from 5 am until midnight and serves most of central London and some suburbs.
Buses: London has a comprehensive bus network that covers much of the city. Buses are a great option if you are traveling during the day and want to take in the sights of the city. They accept contactless payment, and you can purchase a single-ride ticket or an Oyster card for multiple rides.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services: London's black cabs are a classic way to get around the city, and they are widely available. Uber, Grab, and other ride-sharing services are also popular in London and are a convenient way to get around.
Santander Cycles: During the warmer months, London operates a bike-share program called Santander Cycles. It is a fun and eco-friendly way to get around the city and is a great option for shorter journeys.
Walking: London is a great city for walking, and many of the city's sights are within walking distance of each other. Walking is a good option if you want to see the city at a slower pace and get a feel for its different neighborhoods.
How to Pay: London is a highly developed and modern city, and as such, the preferred payment method for most transactions is by credit or debit card. Most places in London accept contactless payment, which allows you to pay for purchases with a simple tap of your card on a terminal. Contactless is a quick, convenient, and secure way to pay for items in London. You can also use your card for cash withdrawals at ATMs throughout the city. If you are traveling from outside the UK, it is a good idea to inform your bank in advance so that they don't flag any unusual activity on your account. Additionally, it is a good idea to carry some cash with you, especially for smaller purchases or tipping in restaurants.
Historical Landmarks: Start your journey with a visit to Buckingham Palace and watch the Changing of the Guard, then move on to Big Ben and Westminster Abbey, which has served as the setting for every coronation since 1066 and is the final resting place for many famous Britons. Don’t miss out on the Tower of London, the historic castle-turned-prison, and the iconic St. Paul’s Cathedral, which has been the center of religious life in the city for over 1,400 years.
Art and Culture: The British Museum is a must-visit for its vast collection of art and artifacts from all over the world. The National Gallery is a popular spot for art lovers, with over 2,000 paintings from the middle ages to the 19th century. Check out the Tate Modern, a modern and contemporary art museum, and the Royal Opera House, which showcases world-class ballet and opera performances.
Food and Drink: London is renowned for its diverse food scene, with cuisine from all over the world, ranging from classic British dishes to exotic street food. Don’t miss out on a traditional afternoon tea, where you can sample finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a selection of teas. For a unique dining experience, visit one of London’s trendy food halls, such as Borough Market or Camden Market.
GENERAL LONDON TRAVEL TIPS:
London is a large city, and it can take a while to get from place to place. Give yourself extra time to get around and explore.
Tipping is expected in some service industries in London, including restaurants. A typical tip is 10-15% of the total bill.
London is an incredibly safe city, but it's still important to take care of your belongings and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
The public transportation system in London is excellent and easy to use, but it can also get busy during peak hours. Consider using alternative modes of transportation, such as walking or cycling, to avoid crowds.
London is a multicultural city, and you'll find a diverse range of cuisine to suit every taste. From traditional British pubs to world-class restaurants to cozy coffee shops, there's something for everyone.
48-Hour Itinerary:
As someone who has not only visited London countless times but also planned others’ trips to London, here is a guide jam-packed and heavily curated guide with all of my favorite things to do, as well as some things I love to do with my friends who come with me!
London will always have a special place in my heart and a city that has something for every type of traveler. Enjoy this guide and all that this incredible city has to offer!
FAQ
What are the must-see places in London?
London is an amazing city with a whole host of attractions, museums, parks, and more for visitors to explore. From Buckingham Palace to the Tower of London, there are a multitude of must-see places in London. Here are some of the top attractions to give you some ideas of what not to miss:
Buckingham Palace: The official London residence of the British Monarch, this is an iconic symbol of the monarchy and a must-see attraction. Don’t forget to take a picture of the Changing of the Guard.
Tower of London: This ancient fortress has a long and bloody history, and it’s now home to the Crown Jewels. Take a guided tour with a Beefeater and learn the secrets of the Tower.
The London Eye: This giant Ferris wheel is a great way to get a birds-eye view of the city from 135 meters above the River Thames.
British Museum: This museum is one of the world’s largest, and it houses some of the world’s most famous pieces of art, including the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles.
Westminster Abbey: This gothic masterpiece is a stunning piece of architecture, and it’s a great place to learn about the royal family and their history.
St. Paul's Cathedral: A masterpiece of British architecture and a symbol of London, St. Paul's Cathedral has been the center of religious life in the city for over 1,400 years.
What are the best free attractions in London?
London is full of free attractions for visitors to enjoy. From iconic landmarks such as Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace to its world-famous parks, the city has something for everyone. Some of the best free attractions in London include:
Hyde Park – Enjoy stunning views of leafy green meadows, stroll around the lake, or take in one of the live events held in this beautiful park.
Changing of The Guard – A ceremonial tradition at Buckingham Palace where the Queen's Guard hand over responsibility for protecting the palace to a new set of guards.
British Museum – The British Museum is home to over 8 million works of art and artifacts, including the Rosetta Stone and Parthenon sculptures.
National History Museum – This museum offers a range of interactive exhibits, activities, and talks that explore the history of the world.
Victoria and Albert Museum – A world-renowned museum of art and design, showcasing over 2.3 million objects from cultures around the world, including fashion, textiles, ceramics, and more.
Are there any budget-friendly places to stay in London?
Absolutely! London is a great city for travelers looking for budget-friendly accommodation. From hostels to Airbnbs to student residences, there are plenty of options for those looking for reasonable prices without sacrificing quality. Hostels are a popular option for budget-minded visitors, providing comfortable beds in dorm-style rooms at low cost. Airbnb also offers plenty of affordable options, from single rooms to entire apartments available for rent in London. Finally, student residences are another great choice for budget-friendly stays, offering competitively priced rooms, usually in central locations with easy access to transport links to keep costs low. No matter your budget, you’ll find there’s something for you in London!
Where can I find the best restaurants in London?
If you're looking for the best restaurants in London, you're in luck! London is known for its amazing food and there are plenty of places to choose from to have a delicious meal. If you're looking for traditional British dishes, you can't go wrong with The Ivy, Rules, The Wolseley, and The Dorchester. For something more exotic, there are restaurants such as The Palomar, Dishoom, and Gymkhana that serve up delicious Middle Eastern, Indian, and Southeast Asian cuisine. If you're in the mood for something a bit more casual, try one of the many gastropubs throughout the city, visit one of the many ramen or noodle bars, or explore one of the many food markets. There's something for everyone in London's incredible dining scene!
How can I get around London on a tight budget?
If you're looking to explore London on a budget, there are plenty of ways to get around the city without breaking the bank. Taking public transit is usually the most cost-effective option, with London's vast network of buses, trains, and the Underground. A good way to save money is by purchasing an Oyster Card, which can be used for all public transport and offers discounted fares. You can also take advantage of the city's extensive walking paths and take in the sites while taking in some exercise. Cycling is another great way to get around, and there are lots of rental companies that will let you rent a bike on a day-by-day basis. Finally, if you're looking to get around at night, you can take advantage of London's Night Bus network, which runs all night and is significantly cheaper than its daytime counterparts. With a bit of planning, getting around London doesn't have to be expensive.
What are the top tourist attractions?
Oxford Street: A bustling shopping street in the heart of the city, home to many popular high street and luxury brands.
Camden Market: A vibrant market selling everything from vintage clothing to street food.
Covent Garden: A charming historic square in the heart of the city, home to street performers, restaurants, and shops.
Big Ben & the Houses of Parliament: The iconic clock tower and the home of the UK's government.
The London Eye: A giant Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of the city.
Hyde Park: A large public park in the heart of the city, perfect for picnics and relaxing.