Are you planning a trip to London and wondering how to make the most of your time in this vibrant city? Look no further! We have curated the perfect London itinerary for 3 days that will ensure you experience the best of what London has to offer. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this itinerary is designed to cater to your interests and preferences. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, this itinerary covers it all.
London, the capital of England, is a city steeped in history and culture. With its world-famous landmarks, bustling markets, and charming neighborhoods, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Our London itinerary will take you on a journey through the city’s rich past and vibrant present.
Over the course of three days, you will have the opportunity to explore iconic attractions such as Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey. You will also have the chance to discover hidden gems like Notting Hill, Kensington Gardens, and Borough Market.
Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, a foodie, or simply someone who loves to explore new cities, London has something to offer everyone. So pack your bags, put on your walking shoes, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the United Kingdom.
Stay tuned as we dive into the details of each day in this London itinerary for 3 days. Let’s get started!
Day 1: London Icons
Start your adventure in London by visiting its most famous spots. Begin at Buckingham Palace, the Queen’s home. If you’re lucky, check out the State Rooms. There, you might see how the royals live.
Next, enjoy a stroll to St. James Park for a picnic. Or, head to the Victoria and Albert Museum. It’s known for its amazing art and design. Both places are perfect for a lunch break.
Don’t forget to look at Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. They are must-see landmarks. Parliament Square Garden is a great place for photos. It’s a true London experience.
End your day in the lively Leicester Square and Trafalgar Square. These areas are full of fun and great places to eat. You can also see an amazing theater show. It’s the perfect end to your day.
Discover the Majesty of Buckingham Palace
Visiting Buckingham Palace is a London must. This grand palace shows the royal life. Don’t miss the State Rooms and the famous Changing of the Guard.
Day 2: Outdoor Sights
Day 2 is all about the outdoor fun in London. Begin in Notting Hill, a lively area. Walk down the famous Portobello Road Market. It’s full of old shops, cool stores, and yummy food. Don’t forget to see the pretty houses painted in soft pastel colors.
Next, head to Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park for some peaceful time. These green areas are perfect for a calm walk. See beautiful gardens and enjoy the quiet. Also, visit Kensington Palace to see where royals lived in the past. The palace is very old and tells a lot about London’s history.
A Taste of British Tradition
Inside Kensington Gardens, a stop at the Orangery for a British high tea is a must. Try their great scones, tiny sandwiches, and different teas. It’s a super British thing to do and it’s a lot of fun.
Then, keep moving by walking down Oxford Street. It’s a mecca for shopping with many stores. You will find anything from designer clothes to casual fashion. For those interested in culture, visit the British Museum. It has fabulous ancient items and art from all over.
As night falls, go to Carnaby, known for its chic shops and fun bars. Have a great meal at one of the top food spots. Or maybe see a play at the West End if you’re in the theater mood.
Finish your day in a lively London spot. Think about the beautiful places you saw today.
Day 3: Around the Thames
On the last day in London, explore along the River Thames. Start at the Tower of London. Here, you can see the amazing Crown Jewels and learn their stories.
Then, walk across the Tower Bridge. It has stunning views of the city and the river. Don’t forget to take some great photos.
Go to St. Paul’s Cathedral next. It’s a major part of London’s skyline and very beautiful. Walk on the Millennium Bridge for more lovely views and to see London’s mix of old and new.
After seeing the sights, go back to the city center. Covent Garden is a fun place to be. There are street performers, small shops, and cute cafes everywhere.
End your day at Gordon’s Wine Bar. It’s London’s oldest. Enjoy a glass of wine in its cozy setting and think about your amazing 3-day trip in London.
Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey is a standout spot in London. It features beautiful Gothic architecture. You can dive into its long history.
Notice the detailed design outside and the grand rooms inside. Many famous people are buried here. They include kings, poets, and scientists.
Check when Westminster Abbey is open before you go. You might like to attend a service. This is a good way to feel the abbey’s special spirit.
A tour can also give you fun facts about the abbey. After visiting, head to the British Museum. It has art and items from cultures worldwide.
Explore the museum and learn more about our global past. Then, visit Buckingham Palace. Here, see the Changing of the Guard show. It’s a royal event not to be missed.
Borough Market
Borough Market is famous in London for its amazing food. It has a wide variety of meals and special foods. These will make your mouth water. As you walk around, you’ll smell fresh fruits, fancy sweets, and tasty dishes from all over the world.
Step into this lively place and enjoy its energy. You’ll see rare spices and handcrafted cheeses everywhere. This market is perfect for food-lovers or anyone looking for a great meal.
Try some of the delicious foods and treats here. There is gourmet street food and classic English food. You can eat meals made with great care from vendors who love what they do.
Make sure to get lunch and find a quiet spot to eat. The atmosphere is friendly. You can enjoy your meal, talk to other food fans, and take in the lively mood.
Borough Market is more than a spot for great food. It’s a place to explore London’s food culture. Talk to the vendors, hear their stories, and learn about their unique foods.
Come with a hungry stomach and an open heart. Let the smells and sights lead you in a culinary adventure. You’ll find foodie treasures at every turn.
Explore Specialty Food Items
Borough Market stands out for its specialty foods. You can find local and imported goodies here. Look for spices, luxury chocolates, fresh bread, and more.
Feel the world’s flavors as you explore. Eat some fine cured meats, enjoy creamy cheeses, or try unusual fruits and veggies. You’ll find items to jazz up your cooking.
If you love sweets, you’re in for a treat at this market. Enjoy handmade chocolates, delicate pastries, and desserts. Pair them with a fresh coffee or hot tea.
For those on special diets, there’s plenty at Borough Market. Find gluten-free treats, vegan foods, and other specials just for you.
Explore the market slowly and let your nose guide you. The vendors are eager to help. They’ll guide you to perfect items for taking home or enjoying right there.
The Globe
Experience the magic of Shakespeare’s plays at The Globe. It’s a historic theater that brings his works to life. This iconic place is a dream for anyone who loves theater.
Take a guided tour and step back into history at The Globe. You’ll learn about Shakespeare’s life and why his plays are so important. The tour shows you how performances were done in his time, making you feel part of the action.
Try to see a play here for the full experience. As you watch, you’ll feel the true energy of Shakespeare’s writing. Whether it’s a love story like “Romeo and Juliet” or a fun play like “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”, you’re in for a treat.
The theater is outdoors, so you’re right in the middle of everything. The natural setting adds to the play’s drama. You can almost touch the history during each performance.
Visiting The Globe is a must when in London. It’s perfect for Shakespeare fans or those new to theater. This unique place lets you dive into the world of one of the best playwrights ever.
Tate Modern
In the heart of London, you’ll find Tate Modern, a museum of contemporary art. It has a stunning view of London’s famous skyline. The building’s design is special, fitting in perfectly with its surroundings.
Head to the 10th floor of the Blavatnik Building to see amazing views. You’ll see the Thames River and St. Paul’s Cathedral. Take a moment to soak in the beauty of the city.
After enjoying the breathtaking views, explore the museum’s art collection. It features both classic and modern pieces. This will surely spark your imagination and make you think deeply.
View installations that make you ponder, paintings that mesmerize, and sculptures that amaze. Anyone, from art-lovers to those new to art, will find delight at Tate Modern.
Columbia Road Flower Market
Want to visit a charming, colorful place? Go to the Columbia Road Flower Market. It’s famous for its lively flower stands. As you walk, you’ll see many beautiful flowers. Nearby, there are shops with special, local items. This is a perfect spot to enjoy and buy fresh flowers.
Include the Columbia Road Flower Market on your London trip for a joyous experience. It’s in the lively Hackney area, beloved by flower lovers and locals alike.
The market’s bright flower displays are hard to miss. You’ll see tulips, roses, orchids, and more. Whether you need home decorations or gifts, you’ll find great options.
Don’t just look at the flowers; visit the cool nearby shops. There are boutiques and antique stores. They sell unique, handmade, and vintage items. You can find special crafts, clothes, and home decorations there.
Soak Up the Atmosphere
The Columbia Road Flower Market is full of life and fragrance. It’s bustling with vendors and shoppers. The air smells sweet with fresh blooms.
Enjoy walking among the colorful market stalls. You can chat with sellers or learn more about flowers. They’ll gladly help you with their knowledge.
Support Local Businesses
Visiting this market supports local sellers and small businesses. It lets you be a part of the local economy. It’s a way to make a difference and connect with the local scene.
Buying from these places isn’t just shopping, it’s supporting the community. It’s a meaningful way to explore the city. You get to know the heart of the place this way.
Before you go, try a café or bakery in the area. They’re perfect for a break. These eateries are special spots where you can refresh and continue exploring London.
Conclusion
Congratulations on finishing your 3-day London trip! You’ve seen top spots, enjoyed the culture, and explored local markets. This guide has made your London visit memorable.
London always welcomes you with open arms for more exploration. Feel free to customize your next trip. Choose from history, art, or food scenes, as London caters to all.
Don’t miss digging into the city’s past and vibrant culture. London’s varied areas and many sights will surprise you. Have a safe journey on your next London visit!
