London is one of the most iconic and historic cities in the world. With a rich history and vibrant culture, it’s no surprise that millions of tourists visit the city every year. If you’re planning a trip to London and wondering how to make the most of your time, this guide is for you. In this article, we’ll provide you with travel tips, routes, and must-see places for a three-day trip to London.
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or entertainment, London has something for everyone. From museums and galleries to world-famous landmarks, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. So, without further ado, let’s get started!
Day 1
Route: Central London
- Buckingham Palace: Start your day at Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the Queen. You can watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony that takes place every day at 11 am.
- The British Museum: This world-renowned museum has a vast collection of artifacts from all over the world, including the Rosetta Stone and the Parthenon sculptures.
- Covent Garden: Head to Covent Garden for some lunch and shopping. This lively area has a variety of shops, restaurants, and street performers.
- The National Gallery: This art museum has a collection of over 2,300 paintings, including works by Van Gogh, da Vinci, and Monet.
- The West End: End your day in the West End, London’s famous theater district. Catch a show at one of the many theaters or enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants.
Day 2
Route: East London
- Tower of London: Start your day at the Tower of London, a historic fortress and royal palace. Be sure to see the Crown Jewels and the famous Beefeaters.
- Tower Bridge: After the Tower of London, cross Tower Bridge and enjoy the views of the River Thames.
- The Shard: Head to The Shard, London’s tallest building. Take the elevator to the top for panoramic views of the city.
- Borough Market: This food market is a great place to have lunch and try some of London’s best street food.
- Brick Lane: Brick Lane is a vibrant and multicultural area with street art, vintage shops, and great Indian food.
- Shoreditch: End your day in Shoreditch, an artistic and trendy neighborhood with a variety of restaurants, bars, and nightlife.
Day 3
Route: West London
- Kensington Palace: Start your day at Kensington Palace, the former residence of Princess Diana. The palace has beautiful gardens and exhibits about the royal family.
- The Natural History Museum: This museum has a collection of over 80 million specimens, including the famous dinosaur skeletons.
- Hyde Park: Take a stroll through Hyde Park, one of London’s largest parks. You can rent a boat or bike or enjoy a picnic.
- Harrods: Harrods is a world-famous department store with luxury goods and a food hall with delicious treats.
- Notting Hill: Notting Hill is a colorful and charming neighborhood with antique shops, cafes, and the famous Portobello Road Market.
Where to Sleep in London
London has a variety of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some recommendations:
- YHA London St Pancras: This budget-friendly hostel is located near King’s Cross Station and has private and dormitory rooms.
- The Ritz London: This luxurious hotel is located in the heart of London and has a spa, a restaurant, and elegant rooms and suites.
- citizenM London Shoreditch: This trendy hotel is located in Shoreditch and has colorful and modern rooms, a rooftop bar, and free movies.
Where to Eat in London
London is a foodie’s paradise, with a variety of cuisines and price ranges. Here are some recommendations:
- Dishoom: This popular Indian restaurant has several locations in London and serves delicious dishes like biryani and butter chicken.
- Bao: This Taiwanese restaurant in Soho has steamed buns, rice bowls, and creative cocktails.
- Flat Iron: This steakhouse has several locations in London and serves affordable and delicious steaks.
- The Ivy: This iconic restaurant in Covent Garden has elegant decor and serves classic British dishes like fish and chips and shepherd’s pie.
Free Tours in London
London has several free walking tours that are a great way to explore the city and learn about its history and culture. Here are some options:
- The Royal London Tour: This tour covers Buckingham Palace, St James’s Palace, and the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
- The City of London Tour: This tour covers the financial district, St Paul’s Cathedral, and the Tower of London.
- The Street Art Tour: This tour covers the vibrant street art scene in East London, including the works of Banksy and other famous artists.
- The Harry Potter Tour: This tour covers the filming locations of the Harry Potter movies, including Platform 9 3/4 and Diagon Alley.
FAQs
What is the best time of year to visit London?
The best time to visit London is from March to May or from September to November, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.
Do I need a visa to visit London?
It depends on your nationality. Visitors from many countries, including the US and Canada, do not need a visa for short stays. Check the UK government’s website for more information.
How do I get around in London?
London has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, the underground, and trains. You can buy a Visitor Oyster Card or use a contactless debit or credit card to pay for fares.
What should I pack for my trip to London?
Be sure to pack comfortable shoes, a waterproof jacket, and an umbrella, as the weather can be unpredictable. You may also want to bring a travel adapter for your electronic devices.
