Do you want to spend 2 days in London? Only have time for a quick trip, maybe a weekend? This 2-day London itinerary is for you! Find out how to make the most of your trip.
London is the capital of the United Kingdom and one of the most exciting cities in Europe. It is famous for its rich history, cultural diversity, and iconic landmarks. Some of the city’s top attractions include the London Eye, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and Tower Bridge.
In London, there is always something to do. The city offers endless activities, events, and entertainment, including theater shows, concerts, exhibitions, shopping, and dining.
Ready to travel to London?
Here are my quick tips on what to book for your London trip:
Best places to stay in London:
Best things to do in London:
However, not everyone has unlimited time to explore the city. Whether you’re visiting London as part of a European tour or just for a weekend getaway, this guide is perfect for those with limited time.
So in this article, you will find a 2-day itinerary for London. You’ll discover the best things to see and do in London in two days, helping you make the most of your short trip.
Overview of the 2-day London itinerary
Here’s a quick and simple overview of a 2-day trip to London:
Day 1:
- Morning: Start with the London Eye for great views of the city.
- Midday: Visit Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Abbey. You can take a guided tour of the Parliament.
- Afternoon: Head to Buckingham Palace to see the Changing of the Guard.
- Evening: Take a relaxing walk along the River Thames to enjoy the beautiful sights.
Day 2:
- Morning: Explore the Tower of London and Tower Bridge.
- Midday: Visit the Sky Garden for amazing views of London.
- Afternoon: Spend time at the British Museum, which has many fascinating exhibits.
- Evening: End your day in Covent Garden.
With these highlights, you’ll experience the best of London in just 2 days!
First, we’ll look at some general questions about traveling to London. Then, in the second part of the article, you’ll find the 2-day London itinerary.
General questions for a 2-day trip to London
Some general information you may need to plan a trip to London:
Is 2 days in London enough?
Two days may only allow you to see the city’s main attractions, but with careful planning and helpful travel tips, you can still have a fulfilling and memorable experience.
However, if you want to explore the city more deeply, it’s better to plan for 4-5 days.
Best time to visit London
As with most European city visits, I recommend spring and fall for your trip to London. During these seasons, you can expect pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and more affordable prices.
From late November to the end of December, the city hosts festive Christmas markets, which are a great reason to visit in winter if you enjoy the holiday atmosphere.
While summer in the UK is not typically marked by extreme heat, the high number of tourists and large crowds make it less ideal for visiting.
Overall, the best months to visit London are April, May, September, and October.
Where to stay in London
If you’re looking for a hotel in London, it’s a good idea to stay in the city center, as close as possible to the main attractions. Since the city is huge, getting around can be difficult, and you can easily waste valuable time if you choose the wrong location. This could be a real problem if you only have two days in London.
So, here are the best hotels I recommend, located close to the main attractions:
- Shangri-La The Shard, London: One of the best five-star luxury hotels in London, located in one of the most impressive buildings in the city, near the Tower of London. It’s not cheap, but a great choice if you can afford it.
- Page8, Page Hotels: A four-star hotel near Trafalgar Square. It has good reviews and stylish modern interiors.
- NOX Waterloo: An affordable, four-star hotel close to Westminster Bridge. Its central location and price make it a great choice.
How to get around London
It depends on whether you’re willing to drive on the left side. If it’s not an issue, renting a car can be a good option. We had no trouble exploring the city by car. We used parking garages since street parking is limited in the city center. However, if you rent a car, be sure to consider London’s emission regulations.
Another good option is to buy a hop-on hop-off bus ticket. These buses are the easiest way to get around, but you can also buy tickets for regular city buses. However, both bus options are quite time-consuming.
Taxis can also be a good choice. Although not cheap, they are undoubtedly the fastest way to get from one place to another.
Alternatively, you can hire an electric bike or scooter to get around the city, but I would recommend these less because of the heavy traffic.
Is there a combined ticket option in London?
Yes, there is a combined ticket option in London! It’s called the London Pass, which gives you even more discounts on the price of tickets. When you buy tickets online, they often allow you to combine tickets for multiple attractions, helping you save money.
After the general information, let’s see what you can fit into 48 hours in London.
2-day London itinerary: How to spend 2 days in London
Here’s what you can explore during a short two-day visit to London:
Day 1: London Eye, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace
Morning: London Eye
Start your first day in London by visiting the London Eye, one of the most popular attractions in the city. This giant Ferris wheel is easy to spot from both sides of the River Thames.
You can buy tickets in advance online or at the ticket machines when you get there. But, be ready for long lines, as it’s a very busy place. Once you’re on the London Eye, you’ll get an amazing view of the city from the top. You can see many famous landmarks clearly, so if you enjoy beautiful views, it’s definitely worth the ride.
If you prefer not to go on the London Eye, you can take some great photos from the square next to it, from nearby bridges, or from the riverside.
It’s worth coming back in the evening because the Ferris wheel is lit up at night, and it looks even more beautiful in the dark.
During the day: Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Abbey
During the day, book a tour for the Westminster Palace, where you can explore the world-famous Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. Make sure to book your tickets weeks or even months in advance because they sell out quickly!
Things you can see during the tour:
- Big Ben: Big Ben is the famous bell in the Elizabeth Tower, not the whole tower. On the tour, you will climb 334 steps to the Belfry, where Big Ben hangs, and enjoy beautiful views of the city.
- Houses of Parliament: Also called the Palace of Westminster, this is where the UK Parliament meets. You will learn about British politics and history during the tour.
The guided tour lasts about 1 hour and 45 minutes, so plan enough time for the visit.
After the Westminster Palace, take a short walk to nearby Westminster Abbey, another important landmark in the city. Westminster Abbey is a famous church that has hosted royal weddings, coronations, and many historic events.
After the tour, if you want to have lunch nearby, the Cellarium Café and Terrace is the closest option. Alternatively, you can find several fast food places (such as Starbucks) along Victoria Street.
Afternoon: Buckingham Palace
In the afternoon, continue your journey towards Buckingham Palace. It’s quite close to Westminster Abbey, just a 15-minute walk, so it’s worth considering walking there.
Buckingham Palace is one of the official residences of the British monarch. It is a venue for important state occasions, royal events, and a popular tourist destination. The palace is especially known for the Changing of the Guard, which takes place in the square in front of the palace. It’s a great opportunity to see this iconic ceremony and take photos.
During the summer months, Buckingham Palace is open to visitors. You can explore The State Rooms, which are used by the royal family for official events and receptions. Tickets can be bought online in advance or at the ticket booth, but expect large crowds.
If you visit during other times of the year, not in summer, it’s still worth seeing the palace from the outside, so don’t miss it.
Optional activities if you have more time in the area:
- Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens
- Madame Tussauds London
- The Regent’s Park
- The Sherlock Holmes Museum
Evening: Walking tour along the Thames
Since the first day in London was quite busy, it’s a good idea to plan something more relaxed for the evening.
A great option is to take a walk along the River Thames, especially around the London Eye and Westminster Pier, where you’ll get some stunning views.
Another good idea is to sit down in a local restaurant, relax after the tiring day, and get ready for the activities of the next day.
Day 2: Tower of London and Tower Bridge, Sky Garden, British Museum, Covent Garden
The second day of the London itinerary focuses on a slightly different part of central London, which is also full of exciting places and things to do.
Morning: Tower of London and Tower Bridge
The Tower of London is a collection of medieval fortified buildings located along the Thames in central London, which has had various functions throughout history. You can explore it from the inside with a ticket.
For Tower Bridge, you’ll need a separate ticket. The bridge itself is a stunning landmark and another top attraction in London.
The best spot for photos is from the promenade beside the bridge, where you can capture both the bridge and the river from a side view. Be prepared for crowds, so it’s best to visit in the morning.
During the day: Sky Garden
The Sky Garden is a popular viewing spot in London, located in a skyscraper known as the Walkie-Talkie, offering amazing views of the city.
The entry ticket is free for one hour if you’re just visiting for the view, but be prepared for large crowds and long lines. Be sure to book your ticket online in advance!
If you arrive around lunchtime, it might be a good idea to reserve a spot at one of the restaurants, as the venue has two restaurants and two bars. While they aren’t cheap, it will allow you to enjoy your time there more comfortably.
Afternoon: British Museum
In the afternoon, continue your day in another part of London, starting with a visit to the famous British Museum.
The British Museum is one of the largest museums of human history and culture in the world, with a collection of around 8 million objects covering all fields of knowledge. In addition, the museum regularly hosts special exhibitions and events.
Like all other state museums and art galleries in Britain, admission is free, but be sure to book your ticket online in advance!
When booking, or even at the museum itself, you can decide whether you’d like to grab something to eat inside, or enjoy a relaxing afternoon tea at the Great Court Restaurant, which is a lovely spot for a break. If the weather is nice, you can also enjoy outdoor dining at the museum.
Evening: Covent Garden
I’ve left the second half of the afternoon and the evening for a more relaxed activity: visiting Covent Garden.
Covent Garden is a vibrant area in the heart of London, known for its lively atmosphere, street performers, boutique shops, and excellent restaurants.
It’s a popular spot to wander around and enjoy the bustling vibe of the area.
Whether you’re looking to explore unique shops, enjoy live performances, or just grab a bite to eat, Covent Garden offers a great way to spend your time.
And with the evening of the second day, the 2-day London adventure comes to an end. I hope you enjoyed the itinerary and found it helpful for exploring London in a short time.
If you have more time in the city, London has so much more to offer, with many other sights and activities waiting for you.
Here are a few more recommendations:
Other things to see and do in London for a longer trip
National Gallery and Trafalgar Square
The National Gallery is one of the most famous art museums in London, located in Trafalgar Square. It houses an impressive collection of Western European paintings from the 13th to the 19th centuries, featuring works by renowned artists like Van Gogh, Da Vinci, and Rembrandt. Trafalgar Square itself is a lively public space, often hosting events, protests, or celebrations, and is home to the iconic Nelson’s Column.
Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens
Hyde Park is one of London’s largest and most famous parks, offering a peaceful escape in the heart of the city. You can enjoy activities like boating on the Serpentine, visiting the Diana Memorial Fountain, or simply relaxing in the vast green spaces. Kensington Gardens, adjacent to Hyde Park, is home to Kensington Palace, the former residence of Princess Diana, and beautiful landscapes perfect for a stroll.
Piccadilly Circus
Piccadilly Circus is a bustling public square in the West End of London, known for its large, bright advertising screens and the Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain. It’s a popular tourist destination, surrounded by theaters, shops, and restaurants. It’s also a great spot to start exploring the nearby areas, such as Leicester Square and Soho.
Madame Tussauds London
Madame Tussauds is a world-famous wax museum where you can see life-like sculptures of celebrities, historical figures, and fictional characters. The museum allows visitors to take photos with these famous figures, which makes it a popular activity for tourists. Be sure to buy your tickets online in advance, as the museum is often very crowded, especially during peak times.
Boat tour on the Thames
A boat tour on the Thames is a wonderful way to see London from a different perspective. These tours take you along the river, passing famous landmarks like the Tower Bridge, the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye. You can choose from various types of boat tours, including sightseeing trips, dinner cruises, or even private charters, making it a fun and relaxing way to explore the city.
Top attractions outside London
If you’re curious about the British countryside, just a short drive from London, there are many great attractions to visit:
- Near London, visit Windsor Castle, one of the oldest castles in the world. If you’re a fan of lush gardens and stunning architecture, don’t miss the Kew Gardens and Hampton Court Palace.
- History enthusiasts can take a day trip to the world-famous Stonehenge.
- Another great day trip destination from London is Dover. It’s a famous port town that offers some interesting sights.
- Castle Combe is also a charming place to visit, often considered one of the most beautiful villages in England.
I hope this itinerary has given you the insights and inspiration needed to create the perfect two-day trip to London. By exploring central London, you’ll not only get to admire stunning historic buildings and riverside views, but you’ll also encounter iconic British sights like the red telephone booths and double-decker buses.
Be sure to enjoy the famous British breakfasts in the morning, indulge in afternoon tea while strolling around, and marvel at the city’s lights in the evening. It’s worth taking your time to explore the city, making the most of the two days you have, and enjoying everything London has to offer.
Whether you’re wandering through its vibrant streets, admiring the historic landmarks, or relaxing in one of its many parks, London is a city that caters to all tastes and interests.
If you’re feeling inspired for a London trip, book your flight and accommodation now, and head to London!
