London is one of the most popular cities in the world, so here’s our tried and tested 2 Day London Itinerary to help you plan your route.
How To Get Around London
Getting around London couldn’t be easier. There are generally 3 options:
London Underground
With the London Underground being the easiest way to jump on and off between tourist spots, we highly recommend using the tube system to get around.
Zones 1-2 contain all the central London districts, and most of the major tourist attractions. The daily cap for travelling in Zones 1-2 is £8.10 when using a contactless bank card.
If you don’t have a contactless card that works in London, the best option is to purchase a 1-Day Unlimited Travel Card.
These can be used on the tubes, buses, trams and Docklands Light Railway.
Most of the gaps between destinations are walkable, depending on how much ground you wish to cover and how much time you have.
Hop On Hop Off Bus
Standard buses are available within your daily travel card.
However, there is also of course the famous Big Bus Open-Top Hop-on, Hop-off Sightseeing Tour.
This is always popular among tourists and a is great way to see many famous landmarks around the capital at ease.
All whilst travelling around on a traditional big red London bus!
Tour
Some of the best days out we’ve had in London have been on private tours.
So for those short on time, or those that prefer everything to be organised for them, there are some awesome tours on Get Your Guide available to book in advance.
From food tours, to canal rides and pub crawls, there’s plenty to keep you busy in the UK’s capital!
Also, for all tourists visiting London, I recommend purchasing a Go City London Pass.
These are a great way of saving money when visiting multiple tourist attractions during your stay in London.
Best Time To Visit London
London is an all year round destination. However, if you prefer the warmer weather, then spring through to Autumn (April – September) is warmer, if somewhat unpredictable!
Don’t write off winter though, as there is still plenty to do in the city. In addition, the Christmas lights are spectacular and the seasonal vibe is contagious.
London is always pretty busy but during the school summer holidays, end of July to beginning of September, is when you usually get the most visitors.
So, if you prefer it a little less crowded, avoid these weeks if possible.
Remember, this is just a guide, so you may want to mix it up and add/subtract different attractions.
What To Pack
2 Days In London Itinerary
Day 1
Borough Market
For the perfect start to the first day of your 2 Day London Itinerary, I recommend heading to the famous Borough Market.
Located in the heart of London, Borough Market is easy to get to on public transport or by foot. The Market is open all day from Tuesday to Sunday.
Sitting under beautiful old railway arches, this market hall in Southwark is one of the largest and oldest food markets in London.
With over 100 stalls, you will find lots of fresh, locally produced artisan products. Including everything from pastries and bread to fresh coffee. As well meat, fish, various street foods and much more.
Loved by locals and tourists, the smells and colours will delight your senses before you even try any delicious food stuffs.
Visiting this vibrant, bustling market and trying some of the delicacies on offer is a great start to the day!
Tower Bridge
Now you are fuelled-up and ready to explore, the next stop is less than a mile away. Just a stroll along the banks of the River Thames will get you to Tower Bridge in around 15 minutes.
The picturesque and world famous Tower Bridge has become an iconic symbol of London. As well as one of the most photographed landmarks around the globe.
Built between 1886 and 1894, Tower Bridge is a stunning, combined bascule and suspension bridge that connects Southwark to Tower Hamlets.
Tower Bridge is sometimes confused with, the not quite as grand, London Bridge. London Bridge is just half a mile along the river, close to Borough Market.
If you want to get a close view of the bridge from the River Thames the Westminster to Greenwich River Thames Cruise is a great option.
Alternatively, if you prefer everything to be organised for you, then the Tower of London and Tower Bridge Early-Access Tour is highly recommended.
Tower Of London
You can’t visit Tower Bridge without stopping at the Tower of London. This historic castle, situated on the north side of the bridge, has played a prominent role in English history.
It’s possible to wander around the outside of this majestic building and get some great photos. However, if you are really interested in the history, and maybe want a peek at the Crown Jewels, you need to get inside.
Open daily from 10am – 5.30pm (with last admissions at 5pm) tickets are not cheap starting at £24.70 per adult.
Tickets are best booked in advance via the Tower of London and Crown Jewels Exhibition Ticket.
Alternatively the Tower of London and Tower Bridge Early-Access Tour is highly recommended.
Sky Garden
Now you have crossed over the River Thames, the Sky Garden is just a 10 minute walk away. Located at the top of one of Londons newest skyscrapers, it is literally a garden in the sky.
Affectionately known as the Walkie-Talkie, due its shape, this impressive skyscraper sits on the north bank of the River Thames at 20 Fenchurch Street.
Occupying the top three floors of this 160 metre skyscraper, Sky Garden, with its floor to ceiling glass windows, offers fantastic 360° views across London.
From here can see many of London’s famous landmarks including, The Shard, The Gherkin, Tower Bridge, The Tower of London, St Paul’s Cathedral and more.
As well as the great views, there is a lush, foliage-filled garden area to enjoy. Plus two restaurants, three bars and an open-air terrace looking out across the River Thames.
Open 7 days a week, it’s free to visit. However, tickets are limited, so it’s best to book in advance so you don’t miss it off your 2 Day London Itinerary.
St Paul’s Cathedral
Next, the historical landmark that tops many peoples London bucket list, St Paul’s Cathedral. Less than 20 minutes away on foot, once you reach nearby Cannon Street, just follow it all the way.
One of the most well known and recognisable sights of London, St Paul’s Cathedral is famous for its intricate dome. However, you really have to step inside and and see the interior to fully appreciate this amazing building.
Apart from walking in the footsteps of royalty, you can also ascend the dome for spectacular views, head down to the fascinating crypt and plenty more.
Standing at 111 metres high, St Paul’s was once the tallest building in London. Interestingly, the dome remains among the highest in the world.
The second largest church in the UK, it’s an important landmark in the city of London and has to be on the 2 Day London Itinerary.
We recommend booking your St Paul’s Cathedral Entry Ticket in advance to explore this beautiful cathedral.
London Eye
Located on the south bank of the River Thames, the London Eye is about a mile and a half from St Paul’s Cathedral, it will take just over 30 minutes to walk.
Alternatively, Waterloo is the closest underground station to the London Eye. So if you want rest your legs just jump on the tube.
Standing at roughly 135 metres in height, the London Eye gives you the opportunity to relax and enjoy some amazing views as you complete a full circle in your glass pod.
The London Eye actually receives more visitors per year than the Taj Mahal and the Great Pyramids of Giza combined!
With a variety of tickets and experiences available, the most simple being The London Eye: Standard or Fast-Track Entry Ticket it’s best to book in advance.
You can also find combo’s such as the London Eye and Madame Tussauds Combo Ticket. Or the Madame Tussauds, London Eye & SEA LIFE Combo Ticket.
Big Ben & Westminster
Less that half a mile from the London Eye, across Westminster Bridge, is the iconic British clock tower Big Ben. Found at the north end of Westminster, Big Ben is actually the nick-name for the largest of the towers five bells.
Listen out for the chimes of Big Ben ringing out at each quarter of the hour and then the big one on the hour! You can’t visit London and not have ‘hearing Big Ben chime’ on your 2 Day Itinerary.
If you prefer to take a tour to all the main tourist attractions, including a stop at Big Ben timed to hear the bells, the London’s Top Sights: Walking Tour with Local Guide is a good option.
Westminster is the bustling government area – so where to start?
Westminster Abbey, The Houses Of Parliament and Parliament Square are all popular destinations in this area that top people’s London bucket list!
Also, it’s an ideal spot for some real touristy photos, with red phone boxes and the city backdrop viewed from the bridge.
One of the most popular tours of this area is the Guided Tour of Houses of Parliament & Westminster which also includes Westminster Abbey.
The Shard
The final stop on the first day of your 2 Day London Itinerary has to be The Shard. Sometimes called ‘the vertical city’, this spectacular spire shaped building houses, offices, flats, restaurants and bars.
Also home to the highest and best viewpoint in the city, it has panoramic 360° views stretching for 40 miles in every direction!
The Shard is located on the south bank of the River Thames, close to London Bridge Railway and Underground Station. (Not far from Borough Market where you started this morning!)
Access to the 244m high observatories on floors 68, 69 and 72 will cost you around £32 per adult. Make sure you book your The Shard Entry Ticket in advance though, because it’s a pretty popular spot!
However, if you want to make an evening of it and literally finish your day on a high, you could try one of their restaurants and bars.
With seven to choose from, offering various cuisine, you are sure to find something you like.
What better way to finish the day, than enjoying a nice meal whilst looking out across the magical night sky of the city of London.
Day 2
Covent Garden
For a great start to the second day of your 2 Day London Itinerary, just jump on the underground and get off at wonderful Covent Garden.
Located on the edge of the West End, it was once home to a world-famous fruit and vegetable market.
Now home to fashion stores, local craft stalls, upmarket restaurants, cafes, theatres and of course the famous Royal Opera House.
This vibrant shopping and entertainment hub attracts thousands of visitors daily.
Covent Garden is a great place to shop, grab something to eat, see a show or just relax and enjoy the many talented street entertainers found in this area. Also, the perfect place to pick up some unique souvenirs.
National Gallery
Just an 8 minute walk from Covent Garden, standing majestically in Trafalgar Square, is the renowned National Gallery art museum.
Founded in 1824, and located in Trafalgar Square since 1838, the National Gallery has over 2,300 paintings dating from the mid-13th century to 1900.
On display you can see many famous masterpieces by artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Vincent van Gogh, Rembrandt, Botticelli and many more.
So, whether you’re into art or not, the National Gallery is a great choice for your 2 Day London Itinerary. Open daily from 10am to 6pm, it’s also FREE to visit!
If you would prefer a tour to get all the info, the Official National Gallery Highlights Guided Tour is recommended.
Trafalgar Square
Exploring spectacular Trafalgar Square, one of the most iconic sites in London, follows on nicely from visiting the National Gallery.
Trafalgar Square was built to commemorate Lord Horatio Nelson’s victory against Napoleon’s navy at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. Hence, at its centre is the towering Nelson’s Column, with four large bronze lions sitting at its base.
In addition, either side of this are the two large, world famous Trafalgar Square fountains. You may have seen them featured in New Year celebrations, when Trafalgar Square becomes packed with revellers.
The large square is surrounded by stunning architecture including, of course, the National Gallery. As well as St Martin-in-the-Fields Church, Admiralty Arch and the Mall, Whitehall and the Canadian Embassy.
Trafalgar Square is definitely high on everyones bucket list and has to be on your 2 Day London Itinerary.
If you fancy seeing Trafalgar Square in a different light, London by Night Sightseeing Open-Top Bus Tour will take you via this iconic spot when it’s beautifully lit up.
Buckingham Palace
Leading on nicely from Trafalgar Square, and less than a mile away, is Buckingham Palace. In fact, the walk from Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace via The Mall is one of the most iconic in the city.
Home to the royals, Buckingham Palace is the London residence and administrative headquarters of the monarch of the United Kingdom.
You can’t visit London and not have the world famous Buckingham Palace included on your 2 Day London Itinerary.
Tourists flock daily to take photos from the outside of the royal walls. Although, it is in fact possible to get inside Buckingham Palace for a couple of months each year.
Between July – September each year the State Rooms are opened to the public. You can book your Buckingham Palace: The State Rooms Entrance Tickets in advance.
Another great tour that includes Buckingham Palace is the Changing of the Guard Walking Tour.
Hyde Park
A short walk from Buckingham Palace is the stunning Hyde Park. Recognised around the world, this is London’s most famous park.
Covering a massive 350 acres, this beautiful Grade I listed urban park dates back to 1536 when King Henry VIII established it as a hunting ground.
It’s now home to a network of paths that link a variety of gardens, children’s playgrounds, fountains, sculptures and historic sites. As well as the large, recreational Serpentine Lake and plenty of sports facilities.
Hyde Park is a great place to take a walk or a picnic and catch your breath during your busy 2 Day London Itinerary.
Although, it’s not the only beautiful green space in the city! Regent’s Park, Finsbury Park and St. James’s Park are just a few of the others, if you have time to take a break whilst exploring London.
If you love parks AND cycling, you might enjoy the The Royal Parks and Palaces 3.5-Hour afternoon Bike Tour.
Natural History Museum
The best part about walking through Hyde Park is that it leads directly to the Natural History Museum on Exhibition Road in South Kensington.
This impressive building is home to a vast range of natural history collections. With some 80 million items that include animals, plants, fungi, palaeontology, geology, ecosystems and much more.
In fact, it will keep you engrossed for hours, so that’s why it’s the final destination on day 2 of your London Itinerary.
The Natural History Museum is free to visit and is open daily from 10am – 5.50pm. If you want more info as you go around, for just over £6 you might like the Natural History Museum Self-Guided Audio Tour (ENG) .
There are so many great museums in London to choose from, the British Museum, National History Museum and Science Museum are a few of our favourites. So, we’ll leave you to decide which to add to your 2 Day London Itinerary.
If you’re looking for a detailed guide, Visit London has a great article on the top 23 free museums in London.
Where To Stay In London
Luxury
The London EDITION is located in central London’s Fitzrovia district, with Oxford Street, Theatreland and Piccadilly Circus all within a 10-minute walk.
Inside, there is a Michelin star restaurant, 2 cocktail bars, a 24-hour front desk, free WiFi and free use of the on-site fitness centre for all guests.
With a view of the vibrant city, each en suite room come with a flat-screen TV and air-conditioning. An iPod docking station, bathrobes and a mini-bar are also provided.
Each evening, the restaurant offers a contemporary British menu using fresh, British produce.
Mid-Budget
Set within a 20-minute walk from and boasting a stylish, lounge , Corus Hotel Hyde Park features modern rooms with free WiFi.
The hotel is just a 10-minute walk from Paddington Station, offering a direct train link to Heathrow Airport.
The cosy, air-conditioned bedrooms at Corus Hotel have private en-suite bathrooms and satellite TVs with on-demand movies. Rooms also feature work desks, tea/coffee facilities, iron and ironing boards.
The conservatory brasserie serves a modern European menu using seasonal produce.
Olio Bar offers light snacks and beverages, and overlooks Hyde Park.
Budget
Featuring free WiFi, The Queens Hostel offers accommodation in London, just a 2-minute walk to Queens Park Rangers football stadium.
Guests can enjoy the on-site bar. Rooms come with a shared bathroom.
You can play tennis at this hostel, and the area is popular for golfing.
For more places to stay in London, you can check the latest prices on Booking.com.
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Jastin
Tuesday 24th of May 2022
Thank you so much for these information. We will spend our vacation in UK next month but there are some places that we are not familiar. Good thing I found this article. So excited to visit!
Charlie Pauly
Wednesday 25th of May 2022
Awesome, hope you have a great trip!
mylondonchauffeurs
Tuesday 12th of January 2021
There is literally so much to do in London. I feel like I could never get a chance to do it all even if I lived here!! :)
Charlie Pauly
Thursday 28th of January 2021
Couldn't agree more! What a place to call home!