Planning three days in London? Get ready for a whirlwind of history, culture, and some seriously good food. This city is like that friend who knows everyone and has stories for days. You could spend years exploring it, but here’s a perfect three-day itinerary to help you cover the highlights while still finding a few hidden gems. Pack your bags, grab your Oyster card, and let’s hit the streets!
Day 1: Culture and history overload
Morning: Start your adventure at the British Museum. Arrive right as it opens at 10 AM to avoid the crowds. Spend a couple of hours wandering through the vast collections. Check out the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles. You’ll feel both smart and cultured, and who doesn't love that?
- Opening hours: 10 AM - 5:30 PM
- Entry: Free (donations are appreciated)
Lunch: Head to Dishoom in Covent Garden for a taste of Bombay in London. The bacon naan roll is a must-try, and the chai will put you in a good mood. It can get busy, so consider making a reservation or arrive early to snag a table.
Afternoon: After lunch, stroll over to Covent Garden Market. Browse the quirky shops, watch street performers, and maybe pick up a souvenir or two. From there, make your way to St. Paul’s Cathedral. You can climb to the dome for stunning views of the city (the climb is worth it, trust me). Take at least an hour to soak it all in.
- St. Paul’s Cathedral entry: Around £20
- Opening hours: 8:30 AM - 4 PM
Evening: Dinner at Borough Market will be your next stop. This is a foodie paradise, so don’t be shy; sample everything from street food to artisanal cheeses. You could easily spend hours here, but aim to find a cozy spot for dinner around 7 PM. Try out the Padella for some mouth-watering pasta.
Day 2: Parks and quirky neighborhoods
Morning: Start your day with a stroll through Hyde Park. Grab a coffee from a nearby café and take in the fresh air. Don’t miss the Serpentine Lake and the Diana Memorial Fountain. This is a great spot to recharge your batteries before diving back into the chaos.
Midday: Head to Notting Hill. This colorful neighborhood is famous for its pastel-colored houses and the Portobello Road Market. Spend some time browsing the antiques and maybe even pick up a vintage treasure. For lunch, try Granger & Co for some classic brunch dishes.
- Portobello Road Market highlights: Antiques, street food, and quirky shops
Afternoon: After lunch, visit The Victoria and Albert Museum. This museum has everything from fashion to sculpture, and the entry is free. Plan to spend a couple of hours exploring, but don’t forget to check out the café for a quick break.
- V&A opening hours: 10 AM - 5:45 PM
Evening: Make your way to Shoreditch for dinner at Dishoom (yes, again, it’s that good). After dinner, immerse yourself in the nightlife. Check out some local pubs or grab a cocktail at one of the area’s trendy bars.
Day 3: Markets and the unexpected
Morning: Start your final day at Camden Market. Here, you can find everything from handmade crafts to delicious street food. Try the street food stalls for breakfast; the breakfast burrito will change your life. Plan to spend a couple of hours wandering.
- Camden Market opening hours: 10 AM - 6 PM
Lunch: For lunch, hop on the tube to Brick Lane, where you can experience the famous bagel shops. Don’t leave without trying a salt beef bagel. This is also a great spot for some quirky street art, so keep your camera ready.
Afternoon: Head to the Sky Garden for some of the best views of London. It’s free, but you need to book in advance. Spend some time soaking in the views and enjoying a drink at one of the bars up there.
- Sky Garden booking: Free, but reserve ahead of time
- Location: 20 Fenchurch St
Evening: End your trip with a trip to West End for a show. Book tickets to a musical or play that piques your interest. Grab dinner nearby at Pizza Pilgrims for some delicious pizza before the show.
This three-day itinerary gives you a taste of London’s culture, history, and food scene. You’ll walk away with stories to tell, a full belly, and maybe even a new favorite city. Who knew cramming so much into three days could be this much fun? So, lace up your walking shoes and let London work its magic on you!
