If you’re only in London for 2 days, it can feel like a whirlwind, but don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! Having lived in the city for a while as a flight attendant for American Airlines, I’ve navigated this incredible British capital inside and out. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or someone taking a quick weekend trip, there’s a packed itinerary you can follow to make the most of your short time.
In just 2 days, you’ll experience iconic sights, stroll through lush parks, and take in the stunning skyline. Be prepared to witness centuries of world history while visiting historic churches and thousand-year-old castles. From theatre shows to museums, you’ll get a taste of London’s amazing culture and fine dining. Trust me, with a little guidance, even a short trip can pack in so many activities, you’ll feel like a local by the end.
You might be thinking, “What should I really do in 2 days?” Well, this itinerary has been personally vetted, tested, and approved by someone who’s spent years living in central London and returning multiple times.
You’ll explore all the best things to do, from wandering along London’s most famous streets to indulging in some street food or fine dining at a boutique hotel. Every moment will be tailored to maximize your time, with each day packed with must-see landmarks that define the essence of London life.
Although there are plenty of hidden gems to explore, this guide is all about hitting the highlights—those iconic sights you’ve seen in postcards and films. A mix of touristy attractions and a couple of curveballs, you’ll have an unforgettable experience while staying walkable and accessible. This 2-day itinerary covers it all, ensuring you get the best out of your short trip in the urban metropolis.
Does 2-Day London Itinerary-The Answer
This guide explains how to see London’s must-see highlights in just 48 hours with a tightly planned, walkable itinerary. It focuses on iconic landmarks, royal history, museums, skyline views, food, transport, budgeting, and practical tips to help first-time or short-stay visitors maximize a 2-day trip without missing the essence of London.
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London Itinerary: Day 1
Tower of London
When you visit the Tower of London, you’re stepping into a place full of royal history and historical events. Home to the famous English Crown Jewels, the Tower has witnessed many significant moments in time, including executions that marked key points in British history. The White Castle, at the center of the keep, is an iconic landmark, and exploring this historical site is a must-do during your visit.
To avoid the crowds, it’s best to arrive as soon as the Tower opens at 9 am, giving you a head start to explore the Crown Jewels without the rush.
Plan to spend at least 1 hour, if not 2 hours, at the Tower of London. You’ll want time to explore the historical significance of the place, photograph the stunning jewels, and soak in the royal history.
It’s a place where you can stand on the same grounds where history was made, all while surrounded by the stunning architecture of the keep. Don’t miss the chance to snap some pictures of the monarch’s crown and other priceless treasures.
From its bloody past to its role as a royal attraction, the Tower of London is a memorable visit for any traveler. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking to explore one of London’s most iconic landmarks, this sightseeing activity will be one of the highlights of your 2-day itinerary.
Tower Bridge Exhibition
After exploring the Tower of London, head over to Tower Bridge, one of the most iconic London bridges. If you’re looking for more than just a few classic photos, the Tower Bridge Exhibition is the place to go. You’ll learn about the history of the bridge, how it was built, and how the lifting mechanism works to allow ships to pass through. The exhibition is a great way to dive into this historic bridge and understand its importance in London’s history.
For an exciting experience, don’t miss the glass floor walkway, located 42 meters high. Walking on this breathtaking platform is sure to test any fear of heights and offers a unique view of the bridge and the surrounding area.
It’s a fun and memorable experience that makes the entry price worth it. The scenic view from this architectural landmark is perfect for a photoshoot or just to take in the stunning elevated view. It’s a must-see on your London sightseeing adventure.
HMS Belfast
After crossing Tower Bridge, make your way to HMS Belfast, a warship moored along the Thames on the south bank. This historical ship is now operated by the Imperial War Museums and is a must-see for anyone interested in military history or boats.
Launched just before World War 2, the Royal Navy Light Cruiser played a significant role in both World War 2 and the Korean War before being decommissioned in 1963. Since then, it has been a popular London tourist attraction, drawing visitors with its unique history and educational experience.
When you visit HMS Belfast, you can explore the operational life of a warship, learning all about the history of the ship and its missions. The warship tour is an exciting opportunity to dive into military history and gain a deeper understanding of Royal Navy operations.
Whether you’re a military history buff or just curious about maritime history, this historical attraction is well worth your time and adds an unforgettable educational experience to your London sightseeing adventure.
The Shard
For an unforgettable view of London, make sure to visit the Shard, the tallest building in the city. Standing at 95 stories, this skyscraper opened in 2012, with its viewing deck welcoming visitors in 2013. From the top, you’ll have incredible views of the majority of London, stretching up and down the Thames.
It’s one of the best photo spots in the city, offering panoramic views that capture the beauty of the London skyline and beyond.
Whether you’re into photography or just want to enjoy the breathtaking scenery, the Shard is a must-see location for any London sightseeing adventure. With two floors dedicated to viewing, it’s a perfect place for pictures and to get a true sense of the city’s impressive architecture. A visit here is one of the top highlights of exploring London and provides the best city view you can find in the city.
Houses of Parliament
After visiting The Shard, you can head to Westminster either by the Jubilee line from London Bridge Tube station or take a lovely walk along the south bank of the Thames. If you’re up for a unique experience, a riverboat ride offers a scenic, though expensive, way to travel.
As you make your way to the Houses of Parliament, also known as the Palace of Westminster, you’ll be walking towards the seat of government in England. It’s home to both the House of Commons and the House of Lords, where all of England’s politics take place.
While you can take a tour inside, I recommend taking a few photos from the outside, especially of the stunning Elizabeth Tower, which houses Big Ben. This iconic building is one of London’s most famous landmarks, and a perfect stop for a photoshoot.
Whether you’re snapping pictures or just soaking in the architecture, the Houses of Parliament are a must-see landmark and a perfect way to wrap up your time exploring London’s political hub.
Westminster Abbey
When exploring Westminster Abbey, you’re stepping into one of the most impressive churches in the UK. This gorgeous gothic style building is not just a religious site but a historical landmark. It’s here where key events like Royal Weddings and Coronations have taken place, with 17 Royal Weddings and the majority of British rulers since 1066 crowned inside.
The Abbey is also a famous burial site, home to many prominent figures from British history, including Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, Chaucer, and several royals and prime ministers.
Even if you’re not interested in the Royal family or the buried dead, the architecture and history are sure to leave you in awe. You’ll want to plan at least an hour or two here to fully appreciate the historical sites and famous burial sites.
Expect to wait in line at the entrance, but it’s well worth it to experience this memorial to the history of Britain. Westminster Abbey is a must-see for any visitor to London looking for a deep dive into royal history, English history, and stunning architectural beauty.
Churchill War Rooms
If you’re looking to add one more stop to your 2-day itinerary, make sure to visit the Churchill War Rooms. Located deep beneath the heart of London’s government buildings, this underground bunker was where Winston Churchill directed much of the war effort during World War 2.
The maze of rooms, now a fascinating tourist attraction, offers a glimpse into the secretive lives of those who worked tirelessly beneath London during the war years. Here, you’ll not only learn about Churchill’s life but also gain insight into the significance of these rooms during the Blitz.
The Churchill War Rooms are a great place to explore, and you can easily spend a couple of hours soaking in the history. An excellent audio guide is included with the tour, making it easy to follow along and fully appreciate the history of this iconic site. Because the rooms are such a popular attraction, we recommend booking your tickets in advance to avoid long lines.
After your visit, you can take a stroll around St. James Park or visit No. 10 Downing Street before wrapping up your day at Trafalgar Square for an evening of shows in the West End.
For those particularly interested in Winston Churchill and the London Blitz, we recommend the “London Churchill War Room” tour by Context Travel.
This three-hour tour not only includes a visit to the Churchill War Rooms, but also takes you to other significant London Blitz sites. Whether you choose a private tour or join a small group, this experience offers an in-depth exploration of Churchill’s legacy in London.
London Itinerary: Day 2
Kensington Palace
On your second day in London, head west to explore Kensington Palace, a historic Royal Residence deeply tied to Queen Victoria, who was born here. The palace has been a royal home since the 17th century and is currently occupied by Prince William and his family.
Although the private Royal Residence is not open to the public, the State Rooms are available for a royal tour. These rooms have been accessible to visitors since 1899, a tradition started by Queen Victoria, and are among the most popular of the Royal Palaces.
During your visit, you can explore four themed routes, each focusing on different aspects of the palace’s history. These routes are a great way to understand the royal history of the palace and its significance in the lives of the royal family.
After your exploration, take a break at the café, where you can enjoy a hot drink and a sandwich before continuing your adventures around London. Kensington Palace offers an in-depth experience of royal landmarks and is definitely worth doing during your time in the city.
This historic building is one of the most iconic palaces in London and a top tourist attraction. The palace tour provides a fascinating royal history experience, giving you insight into the royal family and the English monarchy.
The public access to these State Rooms allows visitors to dive into royal architecture, making it an essential stop for anyone interested in royal tradition and palace exploration.
Royal Albert Hall
From Kensington Palace, take a lovely walk through Kensington Gardens to the Royal Albert Hall, a place with a deep royal connection. Opened by Queen Victoria in 1871 in memory of her husband, Albert, the hall is now one of London’s most famous cultural landmarks.
It’s well-known for hosting the annual Proms, a series of classical music concerts lasting eight weeks each year. The hall also hosts a variety of other events, from film screenings to tennis, ensuring there’s always something happening.
Even if no event is taking place, it’s still worth a visit. The guided tours take you through the gorgeous auditorium, the King’s private suites, and provide an in-depth look at the hall’s architecture and the history of performances.
Over 150,000 performances have been held here since it opened, making this royal venue a must-see on your London tour. The iconic venue offers a chance to experience both music history and entertainment, making it a perfect addition to any visit to London.
V&A Museum
For your next stop, head to one of London’s favourite museums, the Victoria and Albert Museum (often called the V&A). It’s free to visit, although special exhibitions may charge a fee.
This museum is the world’s largest museum for decorative arts and design, showcasing over two million objects spanning 5,000 years of human existence. Whether you’re a fan of art or design history, there’s something here for everyone, from historical artefacts to stunning design artefacts.
You could easily spend multiple days exploring the vast museum collections, which include everything from decorative objects to significant historical objects. The V&A offers a true cultural experience, with its impressive collection of art and design, making it a top museum visit for anyone interested in world history and human history. It’s a cultural landmark and an essential stop on any London sightseeing tour.
Buckingham Palace
After you visit the V&A, head to Buckingham Palace, a must-see royal residence. Depending on the time of year you visit, you can either visit in the afternoon, which will give you a pleasant experience without the large crowds from the changing of the guard ceremony, or you can opt to witness the ceremony itself, which lasts about 45 minutes and happens around midday.
If you prefer to experience the changing ceremony, you may need to adjust your itinerary slightly to fit it in.
During the summer months, you can also take a tour of parts of Buckingham Palace. These tours last around two hours and typically run late into the evenings, making it an excellent way to end your day.
Whether you choose to visit during the busy ceremony time or enjoy a quieter afternoon at the palace, it’s a great addition to your royal experience in London.
London Transport Museum
After visiting Buckingham Palace, head to Covent Garden, one of London’s most well-known markets, where you can watch street performers or grab a bite to eat and a drink. While you’re there, don’t miss the London Transport Museum. It’s well worth visiting, especially for those interested in the history of transport.
You’ll find exhibits covering everything from horse-drawn carriages and trams to the evolution of the tube. It’s a popular place, perfect for visitors of all ages, and especially family-friendly.
The museum offers a deep dive into transport history, making it a great stop for London sightseeing. It’s included on the London Pass, or you can buy a ticket directly.
After your visit, you’re just a short walk away from the West End, where you can catch a show or take advantage of some early evening pre-dinner dining deals. Whether you’re enjoying a museum experience or dining in one of London’s famous areas, this part of your day will add a fun and cultural layer to your itinerary.
Hyde Park
After visiting Notting Hill, head to Hyde Park, one of London’s most famous and biggest parks in central London. If you’re in London during the summer or on a sunny day, you’ll find plenty of Londoners basking in the sun.
Even in winter, it remains a peaceful area, perfect for a relaxing walk around Kensington Palace and the Serpentine. Whether you’re enjoying a tranquil atmosphere or taking part in outdoor exploration, Hyde Park offers the ideal spot for nature lovers to unwind while soaking in the beauty of this historic park.
2 days in London on a budget
If you’re planning to explore London on a budget, a quick answer would be to budget around £105 (about $130 in US dollars) per day, per person. This should cover your daily expenses, including transport, food, and entertainment.
The cost of living and cost of transport can add up quickly, but with careful budgeting, you can make the most of your London trip while keeping your travel costs manageable. Keep in mind that this budget recommendation is just for the basics, so if you want to see more, you’ll need to adjust your daily budget accordingly.
2 days in London with family
If you’re traveling with family and only have 48 hours to see the city, you’ll need to make the most of your time in London. Our family faced the same challenge when we arrived on a Friday at 2 pm, with jet lag from our three-week European vacation. With only one full day to explore the city before heading off to Paris on Sunday at 2:20, we had to plan carefully.
Despite the short time, we managed to see a lot of London, and it turned out to be a wonderful time. Even with the time constraint, our packed itinerary allowed for great London sightseeing and a memorable travel experience.
Best time to visit London for your 2-day itinerary
The best time to visit London for your 2-day itinerary largely depends on what kind of experience you want. Having lived in and visited London every month of the year, I can tell you there’s never a bad time to go. However, spring and summer are often considered the best times, with temperatures around 50–70°F (10–25°C), making it perfect for strolling through green spaces like Hyde Park.
Plus, you get the added benefit of cheaper flight prices before the peak summer rush, and the sun is usually shining. Though London weather can be unpredictable, you can always expect breezy days without too many muggy tube rides.
If you’re visiting in the fall, especially late September, you might catch 3 weeks of perfect weather, but temperatures can be as low as 35–55°F (2–13°C), so be ready to layer up and enjoy the moody vibes. Winter in London is magical too, with Oxford Street decked out in lights and Hyde Park Winter Wonderland offering a carnival experience.
Just keep an umbrella handy, as you never know when London will surprise you with some rain. Whether it’s a spring, summer, or winter visit, there’s always something special about the London weather.
Best hotels & places to stay during your 2-day London itinerary
When choosing where to stay for your 2-day London itinerary, you’ll find that each neighborhood in London has its own vibe and quirks. For first-time visitors, Covent Garden is a great choice, offering easy access to the London underground and a bustling atmosphere with street performers and cozy cafes.
Some of the top hotel recommendations in Covent Garden include the Covent Garden Hotel, which is luxurious yet cozy, perfect for those wanting to stay near the theater, shopping, and restaurants. Another great option is NoMad London, a moody, elegant hotel in a former courthouse, offering a glass-ceilinged restaurant and a vibe of treat yourself.
If you prefer West London, Kensington is a posh, nice area that offers plenty of hotel options, like the Portobello Hotel in Notting Hill, which has eclectic décor and roll-top bathtubs. For a mid-range option, Kensington Prime Hotel offers a no-frills stay near museums and townhouses without the exorbitant prices.
If you’re looking for something unique, consider The Other House South Kensington, a private club offering apartment-style rooms and a members-only vibe. For a chic boutique hotel, The Ampersand Hotel near the museums offers Victorian charm with a modern twist, and afternoon tea to enjoy.
Best restaurants & places to eat during your 2-day London itinerary
When exploring London for 2 days, make sure to visit some of the best restaurants and places to eat that the city has to offer. One of my favorite places to eat is SUSHISAMBA, which is always my #1 go-to for a memorable meal. The panoramic views from the 39th floor at sunset are truly unforgettable, making it one of the best things to do in London.
Located inside Heron Tower at 110 Bishopsgate, this spot offers a perfect mix of Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian cuisine, featuring fresh sushi, ceviche, and robata-grilled bites. Even if you’re in a rush, grab an espresso martini and enjoy the lively, trendy atmosphere from the rooftop deck.
If you’re looking for more must-visit restaurants, Fallow London and Dishoom London are two amazing spots to try. Both offer a vibrant dining experience, perfect for city exploration and food journeys. Whether you’re indulging in an upscale experience or seeking out a casual meal, London dining is a great option for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in the city’s food experience.
FAQ
Is London worth visiting for 2 days?
London is definitely worth visiting for two days, especially for first-time visitors who want to experience key landmarks like Big Ben and Buckingham Palace. With a strategic itinerary, you can get a great taste of the city’s charm and culture without feeling rushed.
While two days isn’t enough to explore everything this massive city has to offer, it’s a solid starting point for a fulfilling trip. Focusing on must-see sights and organizing group activities by area will help you maximize time and make the most of your London visit.
How to plan a 2-day trip to London?
To plan a perfect 2-day trip to London, start by checking into a centrally located place like the Covent Garden Hotel. Begin your day with a delicious brunch at Dishoom, then head to iconic landmarks like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and the Winston Churchill War Rooms for some history.
Don’t miss out on the famous afternoon tea at Sketch London, followed by sunset drinks and dinner at SUSHISAMBA. End your night with some fun at Ballie Ballerson and relax at The Book Club Shoreditch. This itinerary includes a mix of sightseeing, royal attractions, dining, and night entertainment, ensuring a memorable London trip filled with amazing food experiences and evening activities.
Where to go for two days from London?
If you’re looking for a two-day trip from London, consider visiting Bath for its famous Roman baths and stunning Georgian architecture, or head to Oxford to explore its historic university and libraries.
If you prefer a seaside escape, Brighton offers a great mix of unique shops and beautiful views, while Canterbury is perfect for exploring a historic cathedral and medieval streets. Alternatively, you can opt for a short trip abroad to Paris or Amsterdam, both easily accessible by train. Each of these destinations offers a unique cultural and historical experience, making them perfect for a quick getaway from London.
What are the top 6 places to visit in London?
When visiting London for 2 days, make sure to check out the top 6 places to visit. Start with the Tower of London, a historic site known for its royal history and stunning views of the River Thames.
Then head to Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace to explore royal attractions and iconic buildings like Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. Don’t miss the London Eye for breathtaking city views and, if you have time, make a trip to St. Paul’s Cathedral for a taste of British history. Each of these historical landmarks offers a unique experience and is a must-see on your London sightseeing adventure.
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Conclusion
I hope this London 2-day itinerary helps you plan your two days in the city. Having lived in London for 9 years, I can say that there’s so much to love about this city. If you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments section, and I’d be happy to help. I want you to enjoy your London visit as much as I’ve enjoyed my time here. If you’ve been to London before, I’d love to hear about your experience and any London tips you have. Feel free to share your feedback and let me know how you found it!
