3 Days in London: The Essential Itinerary
London is a city that effortlessly blends centuries of royal history with cutting-edge culture, incredible food, and world-class museums — most of which are free. In three days, you can explore iconic landmarks, wander through vibrant markets, and discover why London remains one of the world's most exciting cities.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
1Westminster & South Bank
Westminster Abbey & Big Ben
Start at the heart of British history. Marvel at Westminster Abbey's Gothic architecture and walk along the Thames to see Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.
South Bank & Tate Modern
Cross Westminster Bridge to the vibrant South Bank. Walk along the Thames past street performers, the London Eye, and visit the free Tate Modern gallery in the converted Bankside Power Station.
Borough Market
End your day at London's oldest food market. Sample artisan cheeses, fresh oysters, gourmet burgers, and craft beers from independent vendors.
Lunch: Street food at South Bank
International €
Dinner: Borough Market vendors
British & international €€
2British Museum & Camden
British Museum
Explore one of the world's greatest museums — for free. See the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies, the Parthenon Marbles, and treasures spanning 2 million years of human history.
Camden Town & Market
Head to colorful Camden for its legendary markets, street food from every cuisine imaginable, vintage fashion, and quirky independent shops along the canal.
Regent's Park & Primrose Hill
Walk through Regent's Park and climb Primrose Hill for one of London's best sunset viewpoints overlooking the entire skyline.
Lunch: Camden Market street food
International €
Dinner: Gastropub in Primrose Hill
British €€
3Tower of London & East End
Tower of London
Explore the 1000-year-old fortress. See the Crown Jewels, hear tales from the Beefeaters, and walk the walls where kings and queens were imprisoned.
Tower Bridge & Shoreditch
Walk across iconic Tower Bridge, then head to the trendy East End. Shoreditch is London's creative hub with incredible street art, independent galleries, and craft coffee shops.
Sky Garden
End your trip with free panoramic views from the Sky Garden at 20 Fenchurch Street. Book ahead for this stunning rooftop garden with 360-degree views of London.
Lunch: Café in Shoreditch
Brunch/International €€
Dinner: Restaurant in the City
Modern British €€
Interactive Map
Practical Info
Getting Around
London's Tube (Underground) is the fastest way to get around. Get an Oyster card or use contactless payment — daily caps apply automatically. Single Zone 1 fare is £2.80. Buses are £1.75 flat fare. Walking is great in central London — many attractions are closer than you'd think.
Where to Stay
South Kensington and Covent Garden are central and walkable. Shoreditch is trendy with great nightlife. King's Cross is well-connected and affordable. Avoid staying too far outside Zone 2 unless you're on a tight budget.
Money Tips
London is expensive but many top attractions are free (British Museum, Natural History Museum, Tate Modern, National Gallery). Cards and contactless are accepted everywhere. Tipping 10-12.5% at restaurants is standard.
Safety
London is very safe for tourists. Be aware of pickpockets on the Tube and at major tourist spots. Avoid unlicensed minicabs — use black cabs or Uber. Emergency number: 999.
SIM & WiFi
Buy a UK SIM from Three, EE, or Vodafone for £10-15 with generous data. Free WiFi is available on the Tube (some stations), in cafés, and most public buildings.
Frequently Asked Questions
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