3-day itinerary to explore London

London, a vibrant city full of history, offers travelers an unparalleled experience. From the majestic palaces to the bustling markets, every corner has something unique to offer.

Here we propose a 3-day itinerary to make the most of your visit, with additional suggestions for those who wish to extend their stay.

Day 1: Discovering the essentials

Tomorrow:

Begin your adventure at Buckingham Palace, where you can witness the changing of the guard (10:45 AM in summer, every other day in winter). Continue to nearby Green Park and head to the imposing Palace of Westminster to admire Big Ben (actually called the Elizabeth Tower) and Parliament.

Tip: Book in advance to visit the interior of Parliament and Westminster Abbey.

Afternoon:

Cross Westminster Bridge to the south bank of the Thames and visit the Tate Modern, a temple of contemporary art. Walk through the Southbank Center to the London Eye for panoramic views of the city.

Evening:

End the day with dinner at Borough Market, famous for its fresh produce and culinary variety. Then, take a night walk across Tower Bridge to see Tower Bridge illuminated.

Day 2: culture and tradition

Tomorrow:

Start the day at the British Museum, home to priceless historical treasures such as the Rosetta Stone and the Parthenon sculpture. Tour the collection in the morning to avoid the crowds.

Tip: Entry to the British Museum is free, but consider a voluntary donation. To save time in line, you can make a reservation at your page.

Afternoon:

Head to Covent Garden for lunch and street performances. Then, visit the Globe Theater for a unique theatrical experience or take a tour of Shakespeare’s Globe Exhibition.

Evening:

Explore the West End, famous for its musicals and plays. Book in advance to secure tickets to your favorite show.

Day 3: Nature and relaxation

Tomorrow:

Escape the urban bustle in Hyde Park. Stroll through the gardens and rent a boat on Serpentine Lake. Visit Kensington Palace and Kensington Gardens, residence of the British royal family.

Tip: Enjoy brunch at one of the cafes in the area or simply rest in the park.

Read also: The best viewpoints in London

Afternoon:

Exploring the Natural History Museum and the nearby Science Museum is an ideal experience for families and science buffs alike.

Both places offer fascinating exhibits ranging from the evolution of life on Earth to the most recent technological advances.

Evening:

For a memorable last dinner, head to vibrant Soho, known for its culinary diversity and nightlife.

If you have 4 days or more, what places can you add?

• Visit Hampton Court Palace, a magnificent historic palace with impressive gardens.
• Explore the Victoria and Albert Museum, dedicated to art and design.
• Take a day trip to Windsor to visit Windsor Castle and stroll through the charming city.
• Spend extra time exploring lesser-known neighborhoods like Notting Hill, with its Portobello Road market, or Camden Town, famous for its market and alternative scene.
• Visit the National Gallery, where you can admire a vast collection of artistic masterpieces, including Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Virgin of the Rocks” and Vincent van Gogh’s “Sunflowers.”

A magical touch: Harry Potter in London

For Harry Potter fans, you can’t miss the iconic sites related to the famous wizard:

• Visit Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross Station to take a photo as you pass over the wall to the Hogwarts Express.
• Tour the Warner Bros. studios in London, where you can explore the original sets, see props and enjoy behind-the-scenes magic.

• Enjoy a drink at Leadenhall Market, which served as the inspiration for Diagon Alley (or at least it is one of the theories).
• Visit House of MinaLima, the store-museum of the designers of the Harry Potter films