3 Days in London Itinerary: The Complete Local’s Guide

Planning a trip to London and wondering how to make the most of your time? This 3 days in London itinerary covers all the must-see sights and local favourites to help you experience the best of the city.

There’s no denying it—London is one of the world’s great cities, and it rarely fails to leave a lasting impression. It’s a place that exhilarates and entertains, where adventure lingers around every corner. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, you’ll never run out of things to see, do, and experience.

Of course, London has its iconic sights and bucket-list landmarks—but what I love most, after living here for 25 years, is how easy it is to step beyond them. It’s a city where you can veer off the tourist trail and experience the London locals know—the hidden markets, neighbourhood cafes, and under-the-radar gems that make the city truly special.

What sets London apart is its variety. The people, the food, the culture, the shopping—it’s as though the entire world packed up and moved in. Nearly every culture finds its expression here, from street food stalls to community festivals. And yet, British history and tradition quietly anchor the city; you’ll feel it in the old pubs, the stately architecture, and the winding streets that still whisper of the past.

In this 3 days in London itinerary, I’m sharing a mix of unmissable sights and personal favourites—the best of both worlds—so you can experience the city like a traveller, but with the knowledge of a local. Ready to explore? Let’s dive in.

*This ‘London bucket list guide’ post contains affiliate links meaning I might make a small profit if you choose to book at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with top quality content for free.

My Top London Travel Tips

A few insider tips can make all the difference when exploring London. From the best ways to get around to the ideal times to visit, here are some practical pointers to help you navigate this 3 day London itinerary and make your trip as smooth—and enjoyable—as possible.

General Tips

↠ For each day of your London travel itinerary, choose an area and explore that area instead of trying to see various sights across the city in a day. London is huge, and if you try to see various sights that are located across the city, you’ll lose a lot of time travelling from one place to the next. Focusing on a neighbourhood each day will also save you a lot of money on public transport. This 3 days in London itinerary takes that into account.

↠ While this guide focuses on the top London bucket list experiences and is designed more for first-time visitors to the city, try to get out of the tourist areas and explore more local spots. Check out my guide to the Non-Touristy Things to Do in London to read more. Here you’ll find a list of amazing non-touristy activities you can do in London.

↠ Most establishments in London only take pounds, so don’t try to pay in Euros or US Dollars. Almost everywhere will take credit and debit cards, and nowadays this is the preferred way to pay so to be honest, you don’t need to have much cash with you at all. Many businesses don’t accept cash.

↠ Book popular attractions ahead of time. If you’re planning to visit major sights like London Eye, it’s a smart move to book your tickets ahead of time. Not only can popular attractions sell out, but pre-booking often saves you from wasting time in long queues. Where possible, lock in your date—and sometimes even your entry time—for a smoother experience.

Getting Around London

↠ Use the London tube (metro) to get around. Get an Oyster Card or use your contactless debit or credit card. Do not buy individual tickets from the ticket machines at stations, as it will cost you much, much more.

↠ Central London is very walkable- you don’t need to take the tube from Piccadilly Circus to Covent Garden, for example.

↠ Don’t rent a car in London or use taxis or Uber during rush hour. Traffic is horrendous, and fares are high. It’s much faster and cheaper to use the tube.

↠ London technically has five airports you might encounter when booking—especially for short-haul or European flights. Most long-haul, international flights land at either London Heathrow or London Gatwick. Heathrow and London City Airport are by far the most convenient, with quick, straightforward links into central London.

If possible, I’d avoid flying via Stansted or Luton—they’re located well north of the city, and getting into town from either takes well over two hours sometimes – but this will be unavoidable when using low-cost airlines like Ryanair and Easyjet.

The Ultimate 3 Days in London Itinerary

There’s no shortage of things to do in London, but for first-time visitors, certain experiences really shouldn’t be missed. From iconic landmarks like Big Ben and Tower Bridge to modern, pop-culture-filled experiences, this city delivers endless ways to fill your days.

With its energy, diversity, and ever-changing vibe, London has a way of capturing hearts fast. And with just three days to explore, it’s all about striking the perfect balance between must-see sights and authentic local moments.

Day One – West- Central London

Your 3 Day London itinerary starts in Westminster with London’s more iconic sights.

While it feels like there’s a lot on the schedule for this day, many of these monuments are located fairly close to one another (you can easily walk between them) and many of them you can only really admire from the outside (Big Ben for example), so it won’t take you long to experience them.

Big Ben & The Houses of Parliament

Arguably London’s most iconic landmark, Big Ben is the crown jewel of any first-time visit—and it’s almost impossible to miss. Whether you’re strolling along the Thames or crossing Westminster Bridge, that unmistakable clock tower will catch your eye sooner or later.

While you’re there, take time to admire the adjacent Houses of Parliament, one of the most beautiful pieces of Gothic architecture in the city. Just note that access inside is limited, with tight security and advance booking required for tours.

After a major restoration completed in early 2022, Big Ben now gleams in all its freshly cleaned glory—so you’re seeing this London icon at its absolute best.

Westminster Abbey

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, a tremendous Gothic Church and one of the most important spots in London. It’s the Coronation site of Queen Elizabeth II and most recently the place Prince William and Kate got married.

It’s one of the best examples of Northern European Gothic Architecture in England, along with Canterbury and York. Apart from the Abbey itself, you can also visit the Chapter House, the great Dormitory and the Monk’s gardens and cloisters- the abbey was home to Benedictine Monks until the 1500s.

While the Abbey is pretty impressive on the outside, it’s even more impressive on the inside. As one of the must sees in London, I highly recommend going in.

The London Eye

The London Eye is another top attraction that’s simply unmissable from the London skyline, and a snapshot of the River Thames would be completely naked without it. It’s an absolute London must-see for first-timers in the city

It rotates ever so slowly, giving you a chance to hop off and on as well as fill you camera SD cards on the way around.

Personally, I’d skip the London Eye—unless it’s a must-do on your personal bucket list. The queues can be painfully long, especially on weekends, and in my opinion, your time in London is better spent elsewhere.

If you’re set on riding it, I highly recommend splurging on a fast-track ticket to avoid wasting hours in line. Otherwise, admire it from the riverside and keep moving.

Trafalgar Square

When it comes to the top 10 must see in London, Trafalgar Square is up there. Trafalgar Square is one of London’s biggest public squares and was originally built to commemorate the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.

Here you’ll also find the memorial of Lord Nelson, his statue can be seen at the top of the Corinthian column, which is guarded by the famous four lions.

There isn’t much to do here but take a seat by one of the large fountains and admire the stunning architecture, the views down Whitehall and transport yourself to times bygone and watch any street performers outside the National Gallery.

Here you can also pop into the National Gallery for an hour or two to see London’s most famous paintings. Inside you’ll find works by Leonardo da Vinci, Van Gogh, Rembrandt, Rubens, Monet, and Cezanne amongst others. You could easily spend half a day in the National Gallery looking at all the treasures.

Buckingham Palace

Another must on any London itinerary is to see Buckingham Palace. The residence of Her Majesty the Queen in London and one of the most famous palaces in the world. A look through the fence is highly worth it just to admire the neoclassical architecture.

Tours of the State Rooms of the Palace are open in the summer months and can be booked by signing up for this tour that takes you to the Buckingham Palace State Rooms and includes the Changing of the Guard. There’s no other way to get into the palace.

The Changing of the Guard

The Changing of the Guard is one of the most famous royal ceremonies there is in connection with Buckingham Palace. Watch the guards change over as a new one takes the tired guard’s post.

The changing of the Guard happens almost every day at 11.00 am at Horse Guards Parade, but check the Buckingham Palace website for the exact dates and times.

To not have to worry about organisation and timing sign up for this changing of the Guard Guided Tour at Buckingham Palace.

Hyde Park

No trip to London is complete without a stroll through Hyde Park, the city’s most famous green space. Whether you’re renting a bike, taking a lazy walk around the Serpentine, or simply people-watching from a shady bench, Hyde Park offers a peaceful escape from the city’s buzz.

It’s where locals come to jog, picnic, or just soak up a rare bit of London sunshine.

Covent Garden

Covent Garden has always felt like a bit of a second home to me—I spent years wandering its streets when I was at university just around the corner. It’s one of those places that perfectly blends old-world charm with modern energy. Once a bustling farmers’ market, the grand neo-classical building now houses boutiques, restaurants, and theatres, all under that iconic glass ceiling.

It’s the kind of spot that’s perfect for a slow wander—browse the shops, linger over a coffee, and catch the street performers that bring the piazza to life. Don’t miss Neal’s Yard, a hidden little courtyard just minutes away, known for its colourful facades, indie shops, and some of London’s narrowest alleyways. It’s a total hidden gem.

While you’re in the area, pop into the Royal Opera House. Just around the corner from Covent Garden’s main piazza, it’s one of London’s most beautiful theatres. Even if you’re not catching a show, the cafe inside is open to the public—ideal for a quiet coffee and a peek at the stunning interiors.

Piccadilly Circus & Soho

Located at the edge of Soho, Piccadilly Circus, London’s liveliest traffic junction is London’s equivalent of New York‘s Times Square. Bright lights and flashing billboards fill your eyes with today’s hottest products.

Mingle with the crowds, meet up with friends or simply take photos at this iconic spot. From here you can also visit Lilywhite’s London iconic sports store, the Criterion Theatre for its unique Art Noveau architecture, or just sit down on Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain and people watch.

From here you can head up Shaftesbury Avenue to Soho or down Coventry Street to Leicester Square and Chinatown. In less than 30 minutes you’ll get to experience many of the amazing things to see in London.

Oxford Street, Regent’s Street and Carnaby Street

Located just off one another these three streets make up London’s hottest shopping area. Head to Oxford Street for UK fashion brand Topshop’s flagship store, Niketown as well as all your other major fashion brands.

At the top of Carnaby Street, you’ll also find Liberty’s of London, one of the coolest and most unique department stores in London. Head to Carnaby Street for a pedestrianised, more boutique fashion experience as well as a plethora of pubs and restaurants to choose from when you’re ready to drop.

These areas get extremely busy, especially at the weekends. I highly recommend starting early to not only make the most of your day but to beat the crowds. Most stores open at 10 am on weekdays and at midday on Sundays.

If you’re visiting London for Christmas, come here to see the spectacular Christmas lights, hung each year in December.

Have an English High Tea

There’s nothing more quintessentially English than indulging in a proper afternoon tea—it’s easily one of the most iconic experiences you can have in London. But forget the idea of just tea and a biscuit.

A true afternoon tea is a lavish affair: expect a towering stand of freshly baked scones served with clotted cream and jam, delicate finger sandwiches, decadent pastries, and, of course, endless pots of perfectly brewed tea.

For a classic, ultra-glamorous experience, head to The Palm Court at The Ritz—an icon in its own right and one of London’s most elegant settings for afternoon tea.

Alternatively, for something a little less formal but just as refined, book a table at the Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon at Fortnum & Mason or the legendary Savoy. Both offer a timeless take on this beloved tradition, perfect for a slow, indulgent afternoon in the heart of the city.

Day Two- City of London

Day Two of this London three day itinerary takes you into the heart of the City of London—the historic core where ancient streets meet modern skyscrapers. From iconic landmarks like St. Paul’s Cathedral to hidden alleyways and riverside views, today is all about exploring London’s past and present side by side.

Lace up your walking shoes—this is where the city’s layers really start to reveal themselves.

Tower Bridge

Famous around the world, Tower Bridge is probably already on your London, England itinerary. Adjacent to the Tower of London is the iconic Tower Bridge. (It’s often mistakenly called London Bridge, but London Bridge is further upriver and really not very exciting).

Marvel at this great feat of suspension bridge engineering and design and don’t forget to visit inside the Towers, the Victorian Engine room at the upper walkways that connect the towers together.

Tower of London

Thinking about what to see in London? The Tower of London is one of the most famous prisons in the world. It was built in 1078 and used as a prison for 850 years. It’s something you can only do in London and is unique to British history.

However, it has also been home to the Royal Mint, the Treasury, Armoury and of course the famous Crown Jewels of England. Take a tour of the Tower of London to learn about its gruesome history and the tales and fables of the Crown Jewels. Of course, here you’ll also be able to see the Crown Jewels themselves.

Alternatively make sure to book your tickets in advance as queues here are very long.

Sky Garden

London has a truly iconic skyline that can’t be missed and there are various places you can view it from.

Sky Garden at 20 Fenchurch Street is one of the newest places for an incredible view of the city. Not only is the view amazing, but it’s also the highest indoor garden in London and there are many cafes, bars and restaurants for you to relax and take in the view.

Entrance is free, just reserve your ticket ahead of time. The best time to go is sunset but it’s also the most crowded.

Top tip: The Sky Garden is one of the best things to do in London. It’s really popular so make sure to reserve your ticket weeks in advance to avoid disappointment.

Leadenhall Market

Located in the heart of the City of London Leadenhall Market dates back to the 14th Century as a place of public commerce. Not only is the architecture stunning, inside you’ll also find some modern and boutique shops, fine-dining restaurants, pubs, cafes and more.

Leadenhall Market was also one of the filming locations used in the first Harry Potter movie. It’s one of the best things London has to offer, especially to Harry Potter fans.

Borough Market

For all things food, head to Borough Market just on the south side of London Bridge. If you’re a foodie, a visit to Borough Market is one of the best London activities.

Eat your way through traditional British pies, pasties and fish and chips as well as the highest quality fresh fruit juices and smoothies, breads, cheeses, cakes, pastries and many more delicious, local products. 

St. Paul’s Cathedral

The iconic London church is unmissable from the London skyline and from any London 3 Day itinerary. Pop in and gaze at the grandest dome in the city and one of the largest in the world. The impressive neoclassical architecture is something to marvel at both inside and out.

Day Three – Kensington, Museums and Notting Hill or East London

For Day Three of your London three day itinerary, you’ve got options—because how you explore this city really depends on your style. If you’re after classic London, start your day in elegant Kensington with a visit to one of the museums (the V&A and Natural History Museum are top picks), then head over to Notting Hill—one of London’s coolest and most photogenic neighbourhoods, perfect for a wander and a long lunch.

More of a creative soul? Skip west London entirely and head east. Brick Lane, Spitalfields, and Dalston make up the hipster, design-forward heart of East London. You won’t find traditional “sights” here, but what you will find is street art, vintage markets, independent shops, and some of the best dining in the city.

That said, it’s absolutely possible to mix and match—start your morning in Kensington or Notting Hill, then spend your afternoon soaking up East London’s edgier vibe.

Kensington

Elegant and quintessentially London, Kensington is where grand Victorian townhouses meet some of the city’s top cultural landmarks. Start your morning at Kensington Palace, home to British royalty, before wandering through the beautiful Kensington Gardens. Nearby, the iconic Royal Albert Hall is worth a visit—even if just to admire its impressive exterior.

For a dose of culture, head to the V&A Museum or the Natural History Museum—both free to enter and packed with treasures. Finally, stroll down Kensington High Street for boutique shopping, local cafes, and a taste of classic London charm.

During a 3 days in London itinerary shopping is a must. London’s most iconic department store is Harrod’s, located in Kensington and a must for any first-time visitor. I head straight for the food hall which has some amazingly delicious temptations on offer.

Even if you aren’t interested in shopping come just to check out the building. If you don’t get to Harrods, Fortnum & Mason or Selfridges in Picadilly and Oxford Street make great alternatives.

Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum is worth visiting for its stunning Victorian architecture alone, but step inside and it’s a wonderland for anyone curious about the natural world. From towering dinosaur skeletons to fascinating exhibits on the solar system, there’s something to spark curiosity in visitors of all ages.

If you’re travelling with kids, this is easily one of London’s top must-dos. Expect wide eyes and plenty of “wow” moments.

Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A)

London is a city for museum lovers, and the V&A as it’s known locally is another testament to that. For museum and culture lovers, this is another must do in London.

Located in South Kensington, right next to the National History Museum, the V&A features collections from East and South East Asia, Africa and Europe. Some of the most famous sculptures and their replicas are housed in this museum. For those into fashion, the V&A is also heavy on textiles and the history of fashion exhibits.

Notting Hill & Portobello Road Market

While open any day of the week, Saturday is the best time to visit this sprawling market in West London. Browse some of the most unique antiques and shop for the best gifts from London in the numerous stalls that line the streets of Portobello Road.

Antiques don’t tickle your fancy? Don’t worry there are plenty of other stalls on Portobello Road selling all kinds of bric-n-brac. When you’re done, take a walk around the Notting Hill neighbourhood to see all the now social-famous colourful houses.

If you’re looking for the top things to do in London that aren’t so touristy, coming to Notting Hill is a must do in London.

Read more: The Complete Neighborhood Guide to Notting Hill

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Brick Lane

Brick Lane is East London at its most eclectic. Known for its gritty, creative energy, this street is a haven for vintage lovers—packed with thrift shops, vintage markets, and indie boutiques where you can hunt for one-of-a-kind fashion finds. Street art covers almost every inch of the surrounding walls, making it one of the best areas in London for spotting murals and graffiti from both local and international artists.

And then there’s the food. Brick Lane is famous for its curry houses, but no visit is complete without grabbing one of the legendary salt beef bagels from Beigel Bake, a local institution that’s been serving them up since the 1970s.

Whether you’re shopping, eating, or just soaking up the creative atmosphere, Brick Lane is essential East London.

Spitalfields and Spitalfields Market

Just a short walk from Liverpool Street Station, Spitalfields Market is one of London’s best modern markets. Under its covered Victorian-style roof, you’ll find a lively mix of independent clothing stalls, vintage treasures, artisan crafts, and unique homeware. It’s also a great spot to graze your way through lunch—there are plenty of street food vendors, cafes, and stylish restaurants dotted throughout the market.

But Spitalfields isn’t just about the market. The surrounding neighbourhood is packed with cool things to do. Explore the independent boutiques and concept stores along Brushfield Street, or grab a drink in one of the area’s trendy cocktail bars.

If you’re into street art, take a wander toward Shoreditch—you’ll spot some of London’s most famous murals along the way.

Shop at Columbia Road Flower Market

If you’re visiting East London on a Sunday, make sure to add Columbia Road Flower Market to your itinerary. One of London’s most beloved markets, it runs every Sunday from 8 am to 3 pm, transforming Columbia Road into a riot of colour and fragrance.

While the fresh flowers and plants are the main draw, the area’s charm doesn’t stop there—you’ll also find plenty of independent boutiques, vintage shops, art galleries, and cosy cafes tucked along the side streets.

It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed Sunday morning stroll—coffee in hand, flowers under your arm, and a slice of East London life all around you – this spot is very local and much less touristy than other spots.

If You Have More Time

Realistically, with 3 days in London, you only scratch the surface of what’s to offer. If you can stay longer, or extend your trip, do so as there’s a lot more to see. Here are some more suggestions for how to extend your 3 Day London itinerary.

North London – Hamstead, Primrose Hill, Camden and Little Venice

For a slower-paced, village-like vibe in London, head north. Hampstead is one of the city’s most charming neighbourhoods, with cobbled lanes, cosy pubs, and Hampstead Heath—a vast expanse of wild parkland offering some of the best views over London from Parliament Hill.

Not far away, Primrose Hill offers its own iconic city views, plus colourful streets and indie cafes that make it perfect for a morning wander.

A little further south, you’ll find Camden, known for its alternative vibe, bustling markets, and canal-side street food stalls. It’s grittier and livelier than its neighbours but packed with character.

Finally, take a walk or canal boat ride to Little Venice, where narrowboats bob along tranquil waterways and waterside cafes invite you to slow down and soak up a quieter side of London life. Together, these four spots showcase the relaxed, local side of North London.

Chelsea

If you’ve got extra time after exploring Kensington, I highly recommend extending your visit south to Chelsea—though full disclosure, I might be a little biased as this is where I grew up. That said, Chelsea really is one of London’s most iconic neighbourhoods, effortlessly blending classic elegance with a laid-back local vibe.

Start on King’s Road, once the epicentre of London’s swinging ‘60s scene and now lined with boutiques, cafes, and galleries. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll and a bit of window shopping. From there, wander over to Duke of York Square, a stylish open-air shopping and dining spot, or check out the Saatchi Gallery for contemporary art without the crowds.

Don’t miss a walk along the Thames near Chelsea Embankment, or head to one of the area’s many cosy pubs for a quintessential London lunch. Chelsea might not have the blockbuster sights, but it’s fundamental to the city’s DNA—and an ideal spot to experience a more local, everyday side of London life.

Richmond & Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

Central London can feel a bit cramped, especially after a few days of navigating crowded streets and packed tube stations. If you’re craving space and a slower pace, head west to Kew and Richmond—two of London’s greenest escapes.

In Kew, the star attraction is undoubtedly the Royal Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through glasshouses filled with exotic plants, climb the treetop walkway for views over the gardens, and soak up the peaceful atmosphere that feels worlds away from the city centre.

From Kew, it’s an easy hop to Richmond, a quintessentially English town where the Thames winds past pubs, riverside paths, and deer-filled Richmond Park. Whether you’re cycling through the park, enjoying a riverside brunch, or simply lazing in the grass, Richmond offers the perfect antidote to London’s urban buzz.

If you’ve got an extra day—or even just an afternoon—it’s well worth the detour.

West End, Chinatown & British Museum

No 3 Days in London itinerary is complete without a trip to the West End, the city’s iconic theatre district. If you’re in the mood for a show—whether it’s a long-running musical like Les Misérables or something fresh and offbeat—this is the place to soak up London’s legendary performing arts scene.

Book in advance for the big productions or try your luck at last-minute tickets for something unexpected.

Just around the corner, Chinatown adds a burst of colour and flavour. Wander through its lantern-lined streets, browse Asian supermarkets, and stop for dim sum or bubble tea at one of its many lively restaurants. It’s a fun spot for a casual meal or a quick snack between sightseeing.

Finally, don’t miss a visit to the British Museum, one of the world’s most famous museums—and it’s completely free to enter. From the Rosetta Stone to the Elgin Marbles, the museum’s vast collection spans continents and millennia. Whether you explore for an hour or an afternoon, it’s a must for history lovers and curious minds alike.

Read more: 22 Non-Touristy Things to Do in London by a Local

Looking for more great things to do in London during your itinerary? Check out the tours below:

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So, which of these will you be doing during your 3 Days in London itinerary? Let me know below!

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