3 days in London - an itinerary for first-time visitors

London has seen many changes in its long history as England’s capital, from the Roman city of Londinium in AD 43, to the devastation of the Great Fire, to its height as the centre of the British Empire.

Today it’s a bustling metropolis filled with towering skyscrapers, international cuisine, and a multitude of cultural attractions.

Even if you’ve never visited, you probably know a few things about the city already. There’s a lot more to London than red phone boxes, black cabs and Harry Potter filming locations.

London is home to some of the world’s best free museums, vast royal parks, and delicious street food – you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy three days in London.

 

Planning a trip to London? Here are our top picks…

Stay: citizenM London Victoria Station

Walking tour: Palaces and Parliament Tour

Discount pass: London Pass

Food tour: London food walking tour

Day trip: Lunch in the Cotswolds

London is home to some of the world’s best free museums, vast royal parks, and delicious street food – you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy three days in London.

In this guide, we will take a look at some of the best things to do in London for first time visitors, as well as some trendy spots and places to eat that only locals know about.

How many days do you really need in London?

While there are enough things to do in London to keep you busy for a lifetime, three days is enough to get a really good overview of the city. Focus on specific areas to avoid spending too long getting around, and make use of pre-booking and skip-the-line tickets to maximise your time.

Grab a London Pass to get free entry into over 80 of London’s top attractions, including the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Windsor Castle, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Shard.

Getting around Central London is relatively easy and affordable; much of the city is walkable, but there’s a lot of it! Taking public transport will help to ease the strain.

Unless you want to keep it as a souvenir, you don’t really need an Oyster Card anymore. The underground ‘Tube’ or bus networks will take any contactless bank card, just tap and go.

Black cabs are another affordable option for getting around and, if it’s a short distance, are often easier than taking the Tube as cabbies will drop you off to the exact place you want to go.

Day 1: Classic London Landmarks

Start your trip by visiting London’s most famous sights:

  • Westminster Abbey – A stunning Gothic church with centuries of royal history.

  • Big Ben & The Houses of Parliament – Iconic symbols of London’s political heritage.

  • The London Eye – Enjoy panoramic views of the city from this giant Ferris wheel.

  • Trafalgar Square & The National Gallery – Admire world-class art and soak in the lively atmosphere.

  • Covent Garden – Explore boutique shops, street performances, and cozy cafés.

  • Dinner in Soho – A vibrant area with fantastic restaurants and nightlife.

Day 2: Museums, Markets & Royal Attractions

Dive into London’s rich history and culture:

  • Buckingham Palace – Watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony.

  • Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens – A peaceful escape in the heart of the city.

  • The British Museum – Home to treasures like the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies.

  • Borough Market – Sample delicious street food and fresh produce.

  • Tower of London – Discover the Crown Jewels and medieval history.

  • Tower Bridge – Walk across this iconic bridge and enjoy stunning river views.

Day 3: Hidden Gems & Local Experiences

Explore London’s unique neighborhoods and lesser-known spots:

  • Notting Hill & Portobello Road Market – Colorful streets, antiques, and vintage finds.

  • Camden Town – Alternative culture, live music, and quirky markets.

  • Little Venice – Stroll along picturesque canals and enjoy a boat ride.

  • Shoreditch & Brick Lane – Trendy cafés, street art, and incredible Indian food.

  • West End Show – End your trip with a world-class theater performance.

London is a city that blends history, modernity, and vibrant energy—this itinerary ensures you experience its best highlights and hidden gems.