London 2-Day Itinerary: The Best Attractions for First-Timers + Downloadable Map
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With over 3,000 years of history packed into one incredible city, deciding where to start (and what to skip) can feel impossible when you have only 48 hours in London.
As someone who’s spent nearly two months exploring London across six visits (as recently as 2025), I’ve learned which “must-see” attractions actually live up to the hype (the Crown Jewels), which free hidden gems most tourists miss (Sky Garden’s panoramic views), and where to find unforgettable experiences that won’t break the bank—like a £5 Shakespeare performance that rivals expensive West End shows.
I’m also a massive Anglophile obsessed with British media from Shakespeare to Sherlock Holmes, so this 2 day London itinerary is perfect for fellow nerds who want iconic landmarks and literary connections peppered throughout.
Whether it’s your first visit or a quick London stopover, this guide covers the essential attractions, public transportation tips, and money-saving strategies to help you experience the best of London without the overwhelm—all in just two days.
Is it Worth Going to London for 2 Days?
Two days in London let you see the main attractions, but you’ll need to prioritize, since you can’t see everything in that time. First-timers should stick to iconic sites like the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and the London Eye. I’ve personally completed variations of this itinerary (solo and with a companion) on six visits since 2006, and the pace is fast but entirely achievable on foot and by tube.
For a more comprehensive experience with time to wander neighborhoods like Notting Hill, explore the British Museum properly, or add a day trip to Hampton Court Palace, a stay of 4 to 7 days is more realistic.
How Many Days Do You Need in London?
2 Days vs. 3 Days in London
Two days work if you’re disciplined about pacing and stick to iconic sites.
It’s tight, but doable on foot and by tube, and I’ve completed variations of it across six visits.
Three days gives you breathing room to add a neighborhood like Notting Hill, spend real time in the British Museum instead of rushing it, or fold in a day trip to Hampton Court Palace without cutting anything from the core itinerary.
If your schedule allows it, three days is the more comfortable version of this same trip rather than a fundamentally different one.
How Much Does 2 Days in London Cost?
A 2-day trip to London can vary widely, depending on your travel style and the season you visit.
Expenses will be lower if you enjoy free activities like museums and walking tours, but higher if you opt for pricier dining, attractions, or visit in peak season.
The cost estimate for my 2-day itinerary is:
- Accommodation (2 nights):
- $40-65 (~£30-50) in a shared hostel dorm
- $250-350 (~£190-266) in a mid-range hotel
- Transportation: $13.81 (£10.50) for bus rides
- Food: $68-92 (£60-70) per day including meals and drinks
- Attractions: $217-256 (£165-195) for both days
- Total: $406.81 – $803.81 per person (less if splitting hotel costs)
I know those numbers don’t look like much of a budget itinerary compared to some other destinations, but as London is a top destination, it’s not super cheap.
However, you can adjust this two days in London itinerary to make it cheaper, particularly by choosing to do free things like viewing St Paul’s Cathedral from the exterior, skipping the London Eye in favor of the free Sky Garden, and eating more affordable meals from grocery shops.
Just by doing those three changes, you could easily knock off a hundred dollars.
**Prices last verified February 2026
An Action-Packed London 2 Day Itinerary
For many of these attractions, particularly in the latter part of Day 1, walking is often the best way to get around.
It’ll also let you soak up the city’s atmosphere and take in its beautiful architecture.
Otherwise, the London Underground (aka the tube) and the bus system are your friends and really affordable!
No matter which public transport option you choose, download CityMapper, as it’ll give you all the up-to-date info you need!
Also, stay in Central London, which includes neighborhoods like Westminster, Covent Garden, and Soho, as this is where the majority of this 2 day London itinerary is based, so you’ll cut down on transport time.
| Day | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Kensington Palace, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden |
| Day 2 | Sky Garden/The Shard, St Paul’s Cathedral, Tower of London, Tower Bridge, London Eye, Shakespeare’s Globe |
Day 1: Visiting the West Side of Central London
Best Breakfast in London: Dishoom
Do not sleep on this meal! I repeat—DO NOT SLEEP ON DISHOOM!
I got this recommendation from the same friend who recommended Citymapper (she’s got great recs).
She told my traveling companion and me about their breakfast, and at first, I was like Indian food is great and all, but for breakfast?!?
Boy, was I wrong!
We loved it so much that we went back three times during one trip!
I’ve since returned on my own an additional three times (once for lunch).
The Dishoom naan rolls are the best, especially with the tomato-chilli jam! 😋
You can visit for lunch and dinner, though you’ll need reservations as there’s often a line out the door in the evening! Plus, breakfast here is my fav, lunch was good but not as good as those rolls!
There are multiple locations across London, but the Kensington location is walkable to our next destination!
Kensington Palace
More recently known as the home of the young royals, Kensington Palace has been the residence of many royal family members.
If you’re a fan of the Victoria series on PBS (one of the best historical TV series set in Europe), you’ll know it as the birthplace and childhood home of Queen Victoria.
Located in Hyde Park (where you’ll find the Peter Pan statue), Kensington has played host to royalty for over 300 years.
There’s the King’s State Apartments, the beautiful Queen’s Apartments, and the famous Sunken Garden to discover.
There’s an incredible exhibit called Diana: Her Fashion Story, which wowed me on my first visit to London.
At her former London home, you can see the evolution of Diana, Princess of Wales’s sense of style. This exhibit features several pieces from Diana’s wardrobe, original sketches created for her during the design process, Diana’s handwritten comments, and more.
If you’re a Princess Diana fan, it’s a must-add to your weekend trip in London!
The next destination is quite a walking distance, so you’d best hop on the tube and head to the Victoria Underground Station or take a bus.
⏳ Duration: 2-3 hours
🏰 Book online in advance, as this is a super popular attraction due to the association with Diana! 🎟️
Buckingham Palace
Of the many times I’ve visited London, the Queen (and now the King) was always in residence, so I couldn’t take a Buckingham Palace tour to visit the monarch’s home. Maybe you’re luckier than I am!
Ten weeks each summer, the magnificent State Rooms are open to visitors.
If you aren’t visiting during the summer, no worries!
You can still see the outside and the Changing of the Guard.
The Changing of the Guard is when the King’s Guard hands over responsibility for protecting Buckingham Palace and St. James’s Palace to the New Guard—an iconic tradition of the guards accompanied by music.
The King’s Guard changes in front of Buckingham Palace at 10:45 a.m. and lasts about 45 minutes. This event is free to watch.
If you’re interested in the Guards, check out the Horse Guards Parade. The Life Guard change takes place at 11:00 a.m. daily and 10:00 a.m. on Sundays in St. James’s Park.
After taking pics or watching (this 2 day London itinerary doesn’t really accommodate long tours), walk 15 minutes to Westminster Abbey.
⏳ Duration: 15 minutes for photos, 45 minutes for Guards, 1.5-4.5 hours (depending on tour)
💂 I’ve never visited when the State Rooms are open—the Queen (now King) has always been in residence. If your trip lands in one of the ten summer weeks when they’re open, don’t wait to book 🎟️
Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey is likely a place you’ve seen on TV during royal weddings or the Queen or King’s coronation.
It has existed since 960 A.D. and began its life as a coronation church in 1066.
From William the Conqueror to His Majesty King Charles III, all but two monarchs have been crowned in the Abbey.
It is also the resting place of more than 3,000 great Britons, including kings, queens, poets, musicians, scientists, and politicians.
Some notable names are Sir Isaac Newton, Elizabeth I, Charles Dickens, Mary, Queen of Scots (highly recommend her castle in Scotland, called Stirling Castle), and Charles Darwin.
Westminster Abbey is open most days, but Sundays are for services.
Our next stop is a walkable 5 minutes away!
If you’re fond of Abbeys, check into a day trip to Bath, where the lovely Abbey Church of Saint Peter is located!
⏳ Duration: 1-2 hours
⛪ A multimedia guide is included in the admission price; however, additional fees may be incurred for special exhibits 🎟️
The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben
I couldn’t leave out Big Ben, right?!? It’s arguably one of the MOST iconic London sights!
Every time I see it, I get shivers and want to fly past it to the second star on the right.
In June 2012, the House of Commons announced that it would be renamed the Elizabeth Tower in honor of Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee.
So technically, Big Ben is the name given to the massive bell inside the clock tower, which weighs more than 13 tons (13,760 kg).
During a tour of Big Ben, you’ll discover the intricate mechanics of the clock, get close to the renowned bell when it tolls the hour, and venture behind the massive dials.
After you visit the Elizabeth Tower, you can explore the historic Westminster Hall.
You can also take a separate tour of the Palace of Westminster, either self-guided or guided.
Of the two, I recommend the Tower over the Palace, just a more unique thing to do if you’ve got the time.
📸 Photo tip: Hop on the famous Westminster Bridge for a shot of you in front of Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster. Just be wary of vehicles and foot traffic, as it gets really busy here.
Walk less than 15 minutes to lunch! I’m sure you’ve worked up an appetite!
⏳ Duration: 15 minutes (quick photo stop/outside only) or 1.5 hour tour
🕰️ Best booked in advance as tours are typically only on Saturdays, but occasionally on other days of the week, especially in summer 🎟️
Lunch at Sherlock’s Pub
Is it a little touristy? Yes.
Were there tons of locals drinking outside on my last visit? Also yes.
Is it good food for a decent price? Yes to that as well.
Hope that solves all your Sherlock Holmes Pub questions!
The place is decorated with all sorts of decor inspired by the detective, so it’s a must if you’re a fan! Or just looking for something that’s not takeaway in this busy London area.
I really struggled to find something before one of the West End shows and found myself heading back here after trying and failing to get into some busy pubs before showtime. I don’t love takeaway if I can do sit down, so this themed eatery was just the ticket!
Now that you’re stuft, walk only 3 minutes to the next destination!
Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery
Trafalgar Square commemorates the Battle of Trafalgar, a British naval victory in the Napoleonic Wars over France and Spain.
The National Gallery is an art museum in Trafalgar Square. Founded in 1824, it houses a collection of over 2,300 paintings dating from the mid-13th century to 1900, notably including Van Gogh’s Sunflowers and Rembrandt portraits.
It is among the most visited art museums in the world, after the Louvre, the British Museum, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
I’m not a HUGE art museum person, so if you’re not either, skip it on your 2 day London itinerary. However, it is free to enter, so step in and see a few highlights if you have the time.
Just a couple blocks away to our next stop!
⏳ Duration: 15 minutes for photos, 2-3 hours for museum tour
🖼️ Entry to the main collection is FREE; special exhibits may charge a fee 🎟️
☕ Looking for a place to have afternoon tea? Try Sketch or this Tea Guide for all Budgets
Piccadilly Circus
If you’ve seen the opening credits of the BBC Sherlock series, or just basically anything filmed in London, you’ll likely recognize Piccadilly Circus.
It’s kinda like a small Times Square, but 100% less overwhelming.
A lot of people come here to shop, watch street performers, or go to theater performances.
I don’t tend to hang around here long unless I’m heading to a show, or it’s decorated for Christmas, as I’m not a big shopper, but if you are, you’ll love it!
Otherwise, just pass through on the way to dinner!
⏳ Duration: 15 minutes to wander, longer to shop
🇬🇧 Combine your London trip with an excursion to the English countryside. Avebury Stone Circle and Shakespeare’s hometown, Stratford-upon-Avon (I recommend Stratford Town Walks), are both conveniently accessible by train from London!
Dinner in Covent Garden
Covent Garden is an excellent place to people watch, shop, and grab a drink (or a bite).
Centrally located, it’s one of London’s most popular shopping and entertainment hubs.
If you’ve seen the film Last Christmas, then you’ve seen Covent Garden.
There are so many great places to check out here, but I’ll recommend the bar, Punch & Judy, across from St. Paul’s Church.
It overlooks the street performers you can watch throughout the day in that area. My travel buddy and I drank while watching a few short shows.
For dinner, I recommend Flat Iron, though you’ll definitely need reservations!
If you’re looking for something a little more hidden gem, tucked away near Covent Garden, you’ll find a colorful courtyard known for its vibrant buildings, indie boutiques, and creative cafes, named Neal’s Yard.
Fun Things to Do in London at Night
Go on a Jack the Ripper Tour
Something I did on my first trip to London that I loved was a Jack the Ripper tour.
It’s a great way to spend an evening walking around London and learning about one of the most notorious sprees of murders in history that remains unsolved!
It’s less like a ghost tour and more historical, as a lot of respect is paid to the woman who tragically passed.
However, if you’re a bit squeamish, this likely isn’t the tour for you.
Book Recommendation
Read Stalking Jack the Ripper—I listened to the audiobook and was enthralled by Wadsworth, who investigates these gruesome crimes despite society’s expectations of women in Victorian times.
I get my audiobooks from Libro.fm—they split the profits with an independent bookstore of your choice.
Cocktail with a View
If Ripper tours aren’t your thing, try one of London’s bars!
I stayed at the Assembly Covent Garden Hotel on one of my most recent trips, so of course, I had to try out their rooftop bar!
Miradora Rooftop Restaurant Tequileria was not crowded—a bit of a hidden gem—and the drinks were tasty.
I’d give this place a shot if you want a drink with a view of the London Eye and Big Ben without battling out for a seat or having to reserve in advance.
Also, hotel guests get a discount!
Mr Fogg’s Society of Exploration
Maybe the rooftop bars aren’t your thing, but themed ones are?
Try Mr Fogg’s Society of Exploration, owned by Phileas Fogg (the protagonist of Jules Verne’s 1872 novel, Around the World in Eighty Days).
This establishment is a Victorian-style tavern that invites explorers, scientists, and like-minded individuals to join the Society of Exploration in a united pursuit of revolutionary innovation.
Rhum Tavern
Or for my fellow pirates, board the Rhum Tavern.
Here you’ll find a cocktail bar celebrating the diversity and expressions of Rum. Styled in the form of a ship’s hull, from the golden age of Piracy.
It’s been bestowed a TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice award.
Day 2: Visiting the East Side of Central London
The Shard OR the Sky Garden?
Did you know London’s highest view is at the top of The Shard?
At almost twice the height of any other viewing platform in London, it offers a 360-degree view for up to 40 miles.
I bought tickets to The Shard to see this fantastic view of London. However, on this trip, I was hit with a hard dose of jet lag and napped when I arrived at my hostel.
By the time I woke up, took a tube, and found my way over there, I had missed my scheduled time to go in.
It was unfortunate that I paid for a ticket I didn’t use.
However, recently, I found out (from that local friend) that the Sky Garden offers a FREE panoramic view of London.
I went on a recent trip and booked my ticket a month in advance.
Because they are free, they go fast!
I arrived a little early and found a long line. Don’t let this discourage you! It moved quickly. They were speedy at security.
| The Shard | Sky Garden | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Paid | Free |
| Height/View | Higher (360°, up to 40 miles) | Lower, still panoramic |
| Booking | Timed entry, book ahead | Free, but books out fast — reserve ~1 month ahead |
| Best For | Best possible view, willing to pay | Budget travelers, early risers |
My pick? I’m a budget traveler, so the Sky Garden, of course! It also opens earlier on most days.
Here are a ton of other free things to do in London!
Take a 5 or 15-minute bus (depends on which you picked) to our next stop.
⏳ Duration: 30 minutes-1 hour
📸 The Sky Garden is FREE, but you must book in advance as tickets sell out fast! Access to the Shard is available for a fee; best booked in advance as well 🎟️
St Paul’s Cathedral
St Paul’s Cathedral is probably familiar to those who have seen the Capitol building in Washington, D.C. The DC building was influenced by St Paul’s.
Or, if you’re a total film tourism nerd like me, you start singing “Feed the Birds” like you’re in Mary Poppins.
At 365 feet (111 m) high, it was the tallest building in London from 1710 to 1967. However, the dome is still among the highest in the world.
You can climb the dome to try out the Whispering Gallery and see some spectacular views of London during your trip, including the Millennium Bridge.
Or go to the crypt below, where many national heroes are buried, including Sir Christopher Wren, Horatio Nelson, and the Duke of Wellington.
If you’re running short on time, of the two churches on this list, Westminster Abbey and St Paul’s, I’d pick Westminster Abbey as I much more enjoyed seeing all the famous tombs.
Take a 15-minute bus ride to our next stop.
⏳ Duration: .5 – 2 hours (dependent on tour)
⛪ Buy online in advance, then take a free guided tour 🎟️
The Tower of London
Head east, and you’ll find yourself at the Tower of London, where you can see the crown jewels.
Note that you can’t take pictures of the jewels. Don’t be a pain like the girl in line in front of me who tried to argue with a guard for it. Be respectful!
Tower Hill is where Anne Boleyn’s coronation parade started and where she was also beheaded. Talk about having your happiest day and worst day at the same location.
Let’s hope your time seeing London won’t be THAT bad!
I loved the Tower’s audio guide. It’s a very detailed and entertaining way to learn about the Tower’s history. It creatively presents a lot of information through music and storytelling.
One of the most remarkable things about the Tower is that several of the carvings made by prisoners housed in the Tower are still here. Many famous prisoners were housed here until their execution.
There’s a whole exhibit on torture and what it was like to be held at the Tower.
Today, the Tower no longer holds prisoners. Instead, it houses the Beefeaters. You’ve probably seen them on that bottle of gin you have somewhere.
It’s an honor to be a Beefeater. They love their jobs and are some of the most helpful people.
I’ve visited the Tower of London twice. It is one of the best things you can do during two days in London.
Tour the grounds and see the crown jewels while here, but if you have the time, I recommend a Beefeater guided tour or at least an audioguide!
Walk 15 minutes across London Bridge to lunch!
⏳ Duration: 2-3 hours
🎧 Audio guide: Available to purchase with your ticket
🏰 Between the storied history and the crown jewels, this was worth the trip both times I’ve been. Book ahead—it’s one of London’s most popular attractions, and slots fill up. 🎟️
Lunch at Borough Market
If you’re in the mood for a vibrant and diverse dining experience, don’t miss out on London’s street food scene.
Popular street food markets like Borough Market (just a short walk from our next destination) and Camden Market offer a variety of cuisines and are perfect for quick, convenient meals.
Street food is a great alternative to traditional sit-down meals if you’re running out of time!
Do note that it is closed on Mondays.
If you do want a seat and plenty to pick from, head to George!
My friend took me here; it’s a bit tucked away, definitely a local spot, and boasts good food, nice pints, and plenty of seating.
Walk less than 10 minutes to our next a photo spot!
Tower Bridge
Often confused with London Bridge, Tower Bridge is a must!
You can take the Tower Bridge walkway for a better view through its Glass Floor.
However, as someone afraid of falling, I’ve avoided this excursion, but I’d be remiss not to mention it if you are braver than I!
You can also visit its magnificent Victorian Engine Rooms and learn the history of Tower Bridge, so it’s not all death-defying activities at stake!
📸 Photo tip: If you want the perfect spot for a picture, I’d recommend walking down the Thames around the HMW Belfast. From there, you’ll be able to get the shot I have above.
Take a 20-minute bus ride to our next stop.
⏳ Duration: 15 minutes for photos, 1 hour for a tour
🌉 Buy online in advance if you dare to strut across the glass catwalk above London’s traffic 🎟️
The London Eye
Just a stone’s throw across the South Bank, and you’ll head south to find the London Eye.
Oh, London Eye, how I was SO terrified of you!
If you’ve taken a moment to check out my 3-day Paris itinerary post, you’ll know I’m no fan of heights—more specifically, falling. I know there’s no way I can fall out of the London Eye, but tell that to my nerves!
Despite being rather scared, I have gone on the iconic London Eye twice!
The London Eye is Europe’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel and the most popular paid tourist attraction in the United Kingdom, with over 3.75 million visitors annually.
If you have a serious fear of heights, this attraction may not be for you as you are in a glass capsule, the Shard or Sky Garden may be better picks as they are experiences inside buildings.
⏳ Duration: 30 Minutes (note that you’ll likely have to wait in line, so the 30-minute duration only reflects the time on the London Eye.)
🎡 I’d book the London Eye through Headout because their cancellation policy is flexible and they offer the lowest price among online retailers when booked in advance 🎟️
See a London Performance
Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre
Lastly, head west for a show at Shakespeare’s Globe Theater!
This was my favorite thing I did in London in 2013, which is why I visited Shakespeare’s Birthplace in 2015.
At only five British pounds for the standing room, it’s a steal!
Seats are more, of course. It is about three hours long, with an intermission, but it’s completely worth it.
I saw The Tempest on one trip, and it was phenomenal!
On another, I saw As You Like It, which was marvelous!
My aunt, who doesn’t know much about Shakespeare, even enjoyed it.
This isn’t your local production of Shakespeare. Many of these actors have won notable awards and appeared on the silver screen, including Dame Judi Dench, Sir Laurence Olivier, Stephen Fry, David Tennant, Ralph Fiennes, Jude Law, and Gemma Arterton.
What’s truly amazing about this is that they use minimal props and set dressing while still clearly getting their story across.
I promise you won’t be disappointed, as a show here is one of the best things you can do in London.
When visiting, you can also tour the theater if you do not wish to or have enough time to see a performance.
Theater Performances
⏳ Duration: Approx. 3 hours
🎟️ Tickets: Buy online in advance, as shows often sell out. They go for as cheap as £5!
Shakespeare’s Globe Story & Tour
⏳ Duration: 2 hours
🎟️ Tickets: Buy online in advance
London’s West End
Maybe Shakespeare isn’t your vibe?
Don’t worry, he’s not everyone’s! So instead, head over to London’s West End.
My friend went and saw Moulin Rouge and loved it!
Later in my journey, I checked out Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, which, as a massive Potterhead, was truly a treat.
I’ve also seen Titaníque the Musical, Back To The Future The Musical, and Stranger Things: The First Shadow, which were all truly enjoyable!
And none of these shows speaks to you, there are SO many theaters in the West End; there is truly a show for everyone!
Get the TodayTix app to search what’s available. I nabbed some cheap last-minute seats on there!
Or try Viator, which lists some shows.
Head to Baaria During Intermission
I had the BEST pischacio crossant here at Baaria!
Legit, I still think about it.
I spotted it when I was on my way to the Cursed Child play, and let me tell you, I went back after the play to try another delectable dessert!
I’ve even returned since on subsequent trips!
It’s a great spot to grab a quick bite before, at intermission, or after a West End play.
Walk Along the Thames River
No matter which you choose, whether Shakespeare, the West End, or neither if you aren’t a theater fan, one of the best things you can do in London is to go for a walk at night to see the River Thames all lit up.
And let me tell you, it’s gorgeous!
It’s a must-add to your 2-day London itinerary.
It can be cold, so bring a coat; this way, you don’t have to brave the cold like I did.
As a solo female traveler, the nice thing about walking the Thames River is that there are people there all the time, so I never felt unsafe while walking alone, even at night.
Additional Things to Do in London
Since I’ve been to London many times now, here are some of the favorite things I would suggest as swaps in case one of the above 2 day London itinerary items doesn’t speak to you:
- Sherlock Holmes Museum – For fans of the famous detective, it’s a must!
- Harry Potter Studio Tour – Potterheads can’t go wrong with a tour to the film sets; however, it will take up about half a day since it’s outside London
- Hampton Court Palace – Best for those who adore Tudor history, this gorgeous palace is well worth half a day and only a short train ride from London
- The British Museum – This free museum (reserve your ticket) is filled with ancient artifacts across human history. I went on my first trip, and I still remember the feeling I had before the Rosetta Stone
- Notting Hill – If you’ve seen the film and are dying to see the cute streets and pastel colored houses, they are nice for a leisurely wander and some boutique shopping
- Charles Dickens Museum – A lovely hidden gem of a museum, this museum is best for literary lovers. They had a great audio tour, enthralling you in the famous author’s life
- Victoria and Albert Museum – While I missed out on some special exhibits by not booking in advance, I still loved wandering the free part of the museum for sculptures and jewelry exhibits
- Somerset House – Former home turned museum is a prime filming location, which is what originally caught my eye. Everything from The Duchess to X-Men has been shot here, and they even have a special tour about it. Or you can wander the grounds for free, as I did
- Chinatown – Great place for some Asian food, can be found on my free Sherlock walking tour
- Take a Walking Tour – On my first trip to London, I took a Beatles walking tour that took us to Abbey Road, Apple Studios, and other sites notable for the band. However, there are tons of themed tours you can take, such as Rock and Roll Music and Harry Potter walking tours! They are a great way to learn about the city while wandering around it. They also take the work out of navigating since you’re just following the guide!
Attractions to Skip in London
- Natural History Museum – Didn’t love this museum as I’m just not a big animal or environmental history person, but it is family-friendly and FREE! Booking a timed-entry ticket online in advance is recommended otherwise you may wind up waiting in line
- Imperial War Museum – If you’re interested in the World Wars, this museum, the Churchill War Rooms, and HMS Belfast are for you, otherwise, it’s not worth the time
- Camden Market – Interesting place to wander around, but it’s gotten pretty popular, so I prefer the smaller, hidden gem markets like the small local ones near Angel tube station
- Royal Observatory Greenwich – Was cool to straddle the Prime Meridian, but otherwise not super memorable
If you’re a Wizarding World fan, I recommend you check out these Harry Potter things to do and see in London!
Alternative 2-Day London Itineraries
- London for history lovers: Swap in more time at the Tower of London, take a full Buckingham Palace tour, and visit the inside of the Houses of Parliament. Skip Covent Garden, the Sky Garden, and the West End.
- London for solo female travelers: Find group tours at your hostel to get some community time. I found ones to attractions such as the Shard. Also, check out my guide on how to meet people while traveling for some more in-depth tips.
- London on a tighter budget: Visit the Sky Garden over Shard/London Eye for panoramic views, check out free museums such as the British Museum (book ahead), grab some grocery-store meals.
- London for theater/Anglophile fans: Spend some more time in the West End, visit the Sherlock Holmes or Charles Dickens Museum, grab a bit at the Sherlock Pub, and book tickets to the Globe Theater.
What to Do in London if It Rains
London’s famously unpredictable weather means it’s worth having an indoor backup plan.
The British Museum, National Gallery, Victoria and Albert Museum, and Sherlock Holmes Museum are all fully indoor and easy substitutes for outdoor time on Day 1 or 2.
The Tower of London and Westminster Abbey are also largely indoor once you’re through the gates.
If you were planning a Thames walk or Trafalgar Square wander, swap it for Borough Market or Covent Garden, both of which have substantial covered areas.
Things to Book in Advance for London
Several of the busiest attractions on this London 2 day itinerary require advance booking, especially in peak season.
Book these before you go:
| Attraction | Booking Note |
|---|---|
| Kensington Palace | Popular due to the Diana exhibit; book online ahead |
| Buckingham Palace State Rooms | Only open ~10 weeks each summer; book ASAP if visiting then |
| Westminster Abbey / Big Ben tours | Big Ben tours typically Saturdays only; book in advance |
| Sky Garden | Free but books out fast; reserve ~1 month ahead |
| The Shard | Timed entry; book ahead |
| Tower of London | One of the most popular attractions; buy online in advance |
| The London Eye | Book through Headout for flexible cancellation + lowest price |
| Shakespeare’s Globe | Shows and tours sell out; book online, especially £5 standing tickets |
2 Days in London Itinerary Map
🗺️ How to Use This Map: Get more info about each point of interest by clicking the icons on the map. To save my interactive map, click 2 Day London itinerary list, then hit ‘Save.’ It’ll then be accessible via desktop under ‘Saved’ and the Google Maps app under ‘You.’ Sort by ‘Distance’ to quickly see what’s open and nearby while traveling.
Best Time to Visit London
I prefer shoulder season (spring and fall) for this itinerary.
Temperatures are mild enough for a full day of walking between Westminster and the South Bank without melting, tourist crowds are manageable at sites like the Tower of London, and accommodation prices drop significantly compared to summer.
Museums aren’t overrun with school groups either, so you can actually get a table for afternoon tea.
I’ve visited England twice in early June and found it pleasant, though it can be a bit rainy (it is London after all), but not sweltering or overly crowded.
On two other trips in July and August, it was broiling, and I got a sunburn; most UK hotels don’t have A/C, so be forewarned if you’re visiting in peak summer.
Late November through New Year’s is beautiful but expensive and crowded.
If you want the festive atmosphere without the chaos, aim for the first two weeks of December or just before New Year’s Eve. I visited just after Christmas one year, and while pricing was still high, the crowds had mostly died down.
I returned in January and found both prices and crowds far more manageable.
Best Places to Stay in London
For this itinerary, stick to Central London—neighborhoods like Westminster, Covent Garden, and Soho—since that’s where most of these attractions are clustered, which cuts down significantly on transport time.
Here are some of my favorites I’ve stayed at over the years that are located in these areas:
- Astor Oxford Street Hostel (budget) — a solid hostel pick central enough to walk to several Day 1 stops (view my full review of Astor).
- YHA London Central Hostel (budget) — another well-located budget option in the same area.
- Assembly Covent Garden Hotel (mid-range) — where I stayed on one of my most recent trips in 2024; walkable to Covent Garden dinner spots and close to the West End.
Final Thoughts
Over my six visits since 2006, I’ve tested dozens of itinerary combinations, and these attractions consistently deliver.
Yes, this is a fast-paced itinerary, so it is not for the faint of heart, as you will be on the move!
However, it is entirely possible to see all these marvelous landmarks in 2 days in London!
If you’re even shorter on time—say, you only have 1 day in London—I’d recommend visiting:
- The Tower of London
- Choosing between Kensington Palace OR Westminster Abbey (you can walk by the latter rather than entering)
- Take a photo in front of Buckingham Palace
- Grab lunch at the Sherlock Holmes pub or another British pub
- Hop on the London Eye
- Catch a show at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre or London’s West End
Brighton is a great seaside destination if you’re looking for a London day trip!
Let me know if you have any questions in the comments below. Or feel free to email me!
FAQs
What’s the best area to stay in London for tourists?
Central London—specifically Westminster, Covent Garden, and Soho—is the best base for most tourists, since it puts you within walking distance or a short tube ride of nearly every major attraction.
I’ve stayed in this area across multiple trips, including at Assembly Covent Garden Hotel and both Astor Oxford Street and YHA London Central hostels, and the location cut down significantly on transport time between sights.
Is London walkable?
Yes, London is very walkable, especially within Central London where most major attractions are clustered.
On this London 2 day itinerary, several stops are only a 5-15 minute walk apart—Westminster Abbey to Big Ben, Trafalgar Square to Piccadilly Circus, Tower of London to Tower Bridge.
That said, the city is large, so you’ll still want the Underground or bus system for longer jumps between areas, like getting from Kensington to Westminster.
Is London expensive for tourists?
London is one of the more expensive European capitals to visit.
Based on my own cost breakdown for this itinerary, a 2-day trip runs roughly $407-$804 per person depending on accommodation choice, covering lodging, food, transport, and attractions.
You can reduce this significantly by choosing free activities like the Sky Garden over paid ones like the London Eye, eating from a grocery store instead of restaurants, and staying in a hostel rather than a hotel.
Is London Safe for Solo Travelers?
London is one of the safest major European cities for solo travelers.
In 2025, the United Kingdom ranked 30th globally on the Global Peace Index, maintaining its position as one of the safest countries worldwide.
I’ve visited six times since 2006, including multiple evenings walking alone after theater shows and late dinners, and have never experienced any trouble.
The city’s streets in central areas such as Westminster, the South Bank, Covent Garden, and the City of London are well-lit and busy until midnight most nights.
The primary safety consideration is petty theft: pickpocketing on the London Underground is the most commonly reported issue for tourists, so keep bags zipped (get an anti-theft purse for added safety) and phones stored when in crowded tube carriages.
However, it’s important to still use common sense, especially at night. Don’t walk down any dark alleys, don’t lose your wits with one too many drinks at the pub, etc.
Beyond that, London is exceptionally walkable and well-policed in tourist areas. I’ve never felt the need to change my plans or avoid any part of the itinerary because of safety concerns.
Related London Travel Guides
- Ultimate 2 Day London Itinerary: Top Sights for First-Timers
- See Inside Hampton Court Palace, How to Visit from London
- Is the Sherlock Holmes Museum in London Worth Visiting? Review from a Fan
- Sherlock Holmes London Tour: A Free Self-Guided Literary Walk + Map
- 11 Amazing London Day Trips You Can Easily Take by Train in 2 Hours or Less
- Need a Safe Hostel to Stay at in Soho, London? Book Astor Oxford Street
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