The short version: Three days is a great first taste of London. Day one for royal Westminster and the South Bank, day two for the Tower and the East End, day three for world-class museums and a park or Greenwich. Here is the plan.
Day 1: Westminster and the South Bank
See Westminster Abbey and Big Ben, catch the Changing of the Guard, then cross the river for the London Eye and a South Bank stroll to Tate Modern.
Day 2: The Tower and the East End
Tour the Tower of London and Tower Bridge, graze Borough Market, and rise up The Shard. Spend the afternoon in Shoreditch and at Spitalfields, then curry-house dinner at Dishoom.
Day 3: Museums, Soho and Greenwich
Start at the British Museum, lunch in Soho at Barrafina or Kiln, then take an Uber Boat by Thames Clippers down to Greenwich.
Got a 4th day?
Potter fans should book the Warner Bros Studio Tour; garden lovers, the glasshouses of Kew.
Frequently asked questions
Is 3 days enough for London?
Three days covers London’s icons: Westminster, the Tower, a great museum and a market or two. London is vast, so you will only scratch the surface, but three days is a strong first visit.
How do you get around London?
The Tube (and buses) reach everywhere; pay with a contactless card or phone. Central London is also very walkable and the river boats are a scenic way to travel.
What is the best time to visit London?
May to September brings the warmest, longest days and parks in full bloom. London is a year-round city, atmospheric even in the grey months.
Is London expensive?
London is one of Europe’s pricier capitals, but many world-class museums are free, and markets and pubs keep eating affordable.
See where to eat, stay and explore in the full London guide.
Plan your trip to London
Compare places to stay and book tours and experiences, all in one map.