How to Spend the Perfect Two Days in London

Only have two days in London? Here’s how to make the most of it.

We recently spent two days in London, and even though it felt short, we were surprised by how much we were able to see and experience. This was my second time visiting London (the first time I visited, I was twelve), and exploring the city as an adult felt totally different and, honestly, even more exciting.

There’s no doubt that London is huge, and there are so many things to do, it’s easy to feel lost when planning a trip. But hopefully with this guide, spending two days in London can feel full, meaningful, and totally manageable instead of overwhelming.

Because London is such a large city, the key to planning the perfect itinerary is to group attractions by area so you’re not constantly hopping back and forth across the city. The perfect itinerary also depends on what your interests are! If you’re more into trying local dishes, maybe swap out some of these landmarks with local markets, for example.

This is the guide we used for maximizing our two days in London, focusing on iconic landmarks and downtime.

Short on Time

If you only have two days in London, focus on the city’s most iconic landmarks and neighborhoods. Prioritize Westminster, the Tower of London, and the South Bank on day one, then mix culture, food, and green spaces on day two.

Guided tours are extremely helpful in London, especially like this tour, where you can hit major tourist spots like Westminster Abbey and the Tower of London (and you also get to cruise along the Thames River as an added bonus!) There’s a lot of history to take to London, and it’s easy to miss without proper context. 

Another great way to soak up London culture is with a food market tour, especially one that takes you to the incredible Borough Market, home to spots that are Michelin Guide recommended, and places that have perfected a singular dish like paella or chocolate-covered strawberries!

You’ll feel like a local and get to sample different dishes with this tour, which also lets you eat well without spending a lot of money trying different dishes!

Where to Stay in London

When choosing where to stay in London, I highly recommend booking a hotel close to the main attractions you plan to visit. London is very walkable, but distances add up quickly, and staying central will save you a lot of time and energy. These options are all well-located and work well depending on your budget and travel style.

• Budget: Charlotte Guest House – This offers guest rooms and studios spread across five buildings in the quiet residential area of West Hampstead. The neighborhood feels calm and local, but you’re still just a five-minute walk from the Tube, Overground, and Thameslink stations, which makes getting around incredibly easy. It’s comfortable, affordable, and a great choice if you plan to spend most of your time out exploring the city. Book your stay.
• Midrange: DoubleTree by Hilton Hyde Park – We stayed here and had a great experience. This is a solid mid-range option with a calm, polished feel, located right next to Kensington Palace and green space. The rooms were clean and comfortable, the service was reliable, and the location made it easy to balance busy sightseeing days with some downtime. It was the perfect place to come back to and unwind after long days of walking. Book your stay.
• Luxury: Claridge – This is iconic, elegant, and honestly feels like stepping into a movie. This legendary hotel has hosted celebrities, world leaders, and members of the royal family, and everything from the service to the rooms feels impeccable. If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime London stay and don’t mind splurging, Claridge’s is the place to do it. Book your stay.

Day 1: Westminster, Tower & South Bank

Day one is all about hitting classic London landmarks and getting oriented with the city. You’ll see some of the most famous sights in the UK, many of them clustered together, which makes this day pretty efficient.

Expect a lot of walking (we were averaging about 25k steps/day on both days), but you can also make things a little faster with the Tube (which costs us about 7 pounds per person for a one-way single ticket).

If you’re visiting London for the first time, this is how to make the most out of your first day.

Big Ben & Houses of Parliament

Seeing Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament in person feels like a “wow, I’m really in London” moment. The architecture is incredibly detailed, and it’s one of those spots that looks just as impressive in real life as it does in photos. I recommend coming here early in the morning when it’s less crowded and easier to take photos.

This area is great for just walking around. You don’t have to spend long here (we took a few photos and then made our way to our next stop!). 

Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is one of the most historically important buildings in London, and it’s absolutely worth going inside. This is where British monarchs are crowned and where many famous figures are buried, which adds so much meaning to the visit. The architecture is stunning, with soaring ceilings and intricate details everywhere you look.

A Westminster Abbey guided tour really enhances the experience here, especially if it’s your first visit. Without context, it’s easy to miss just how significant certain areas of the Abbey are.

It’s easy to pair Westminster Abbey with nearby landmarks, and to make the most out of your day, combine a visit to Westminster, Thames, and the Tower of London with this all in one tour! The guides are super polite and knowledgeable, and doing a tour like this one will save you time and you’ll get to hit all of the major tourist spots.

But if you want to skip the tour, head to Westminster early in the day to beat the crowds and hit other major tourist attractions, as listed below. 

➡️ Click here to book your Westminster Abbey tour!

Buckingham Palace (Changing of the Guard)

Buckingham Palace was a must-see on our trip to London, even though we only saw it from the outside and late at night. The area around the palace feels grand, and it was fun looking through the gate and thinking about who might be inside. 

For the best experience, I recommend seeing Buckingham Palace as part of a guided experience where you get to witness The Changing of the Guard.

This way, you don’t have to worry about timing or positioning, and you’ll actually understand what you’re watching instead of just standing in a crowd and trying to Google the meaning of what you’re looking at.

➡️ Book your Buckingham Palace guided tour here!

Thames Sightseeing Cruise

After a busy morning of walking, a Thames sightseeing cruise is the perfect way to reset and rest your feet. You get a completely different view of the city via a sightseeing cruise, and you’ll pass landmarks like St. Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge, and the London Eye. It’s relaxing, scenic, and informative.

You’re still sightseeing, just in a much more comfortable way, and you get to learn a lot as you go! A lot of tours combine a cruise along the Thames with seeing major attractions, but this is the best bang for your buck.

➡️ Reserve your spot on a Thames sightseeing cruise!

Tower of London

The Tower of London was one of the highlights of our entire trip. The history here is intense and fascinating, with stories of royal prisoners, executions, and centuries of political power. I loved walking through the grounds and exploring the different exhibits, learning about the history that happened in the Tower. 

The Crown Jewels exhibition was also a very cool exhibit. Seeing the crowns and ceremonial objects up close was really awe-inspiring, as well as reading about the origins of different diamonds and crystals on the crown jewels.

If you’re in the Tower of London, consider doing a free Beefeater-led tour that adds a lot of personality and humor to the experience. Unfortunately, the tours were canceled when we were visiting because of the cold, rainy January weather, so keep that in mind when you’re visiting.

➡️ Click here to book your Tower of London tour!

Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge is even better when you walk across it instead of just photographing it from afar. The glass walkways are slightly terrifying if you’re afraid of heights, but looking down at the Thames is a cool experience. It’s a quick stop that still feels memorable.

The exhibition inside explains how the bridge was built and how it still operates today. Since it’s right next to the Tower of London, it’s easy to combine the two without adding extra travel time. Book your entry tickets in advance!

➡️ Get your Tower Bridge tickets here!

South Bank

The South Bank is one of the more lively areas of London, especially later in the afternoon as the city starts to wind down. You’ll pass street performers, book stalls, cafés, and nonstop views of landmarks like St. Paul’s Cathedral and the London Eye. 

We didn’t follow a strict plan here, just wandered around before our London Eye experience. It’s a great place to grab a drink, stop for a casual bite, and just people-watch. 

London Eye

Ending our first day on the London Eye felt like the perfect way to wrap things up. The ride itself is slow and smooth, giving you plenty of time to take in the views and rest your legs. On a clear day, you can spot so many of the landmarks you visited earlier, which really puts the scale of the city into perspective.

If you’re visiting during peak season or later in the day, fast-track tickets are absolutely worth it. Seeing London light up in the evening from above is honestly magical, and it’s a great way to end a full sightseeing day.

➡️ Grab your London Eye tickets here!

Day 2: Iconic London & West End

Day two was more chill, enjoying London at a more relaxed pace with food markets and unique restaurants. After a packed first day of major landmarks, this day is more about the culture, food, and green spaces of London, so you get a sense of what it’s like to live in the city.

You do still see some iconic sights in Day 2, but there’s more room to wander, sit, and really take in the city. It’s a nice contrast to day one and makes the trip feel more well-rounded.

St. Paul’s Cathedral

If you didn’t get a chance to explore St. Paul’s Cathedral the day before, today is your chance to really check it out. The interior is very grand and peaceful, with soaring ceilings and beautiful details throughout. If you’re up for the climb, heading to the top of the dome is absolutely worth it for the views looking out over the city.

I recommend booking your ticket in advance to avoid waiting in long lines, especially during busy seasons. Even if you skip the climb, the cathedral’s interior is still well worth visiting and makes for a good first stop for your second day. 

➡️ Click here to get your St. Paul’s Cathedral tickets!

Covent Garden

After a visit to the cathedral, head to Covent Garden. It’s one of the most enjoyable areas in London to wander without a plan. The streets are always buzzing with energy, thanks to street performers, historic buildings, shops, and endless cafés.

This area is home to some great food markets, and for the best experience (and for the most bang for your buck), visit with a food tour like this one! It’ll take you through some of the most popular food trucks and local favorites, and you only pay for what you take a large portion of. The experience is super fun and lively! 

➡️ Book your Covent Garden food tour here!

Churchill War Rooms

Later in the day, it’s time to soak up some history. Visit the Churchill War Rooms, which are preserved underground bunkers. The exhibit gives you a real sense of what daily life was like during World War II. Everything feels incredibly immersive, from the narrow hallways to the original rooms where critical decisions were made. 

This isn’t a light or casual stop, but if you’re interested in history, this museum adds so much depth to your understanding of London and Britain’s past. If you really love learning about history, this tour is a fascinating way to explore the war rooms and also learn more about what London was like during WW2! 

➡️ Click here to book your Churchill War Rooms tour!

Hyde Park

After the war rooms, go and explore Hyde Park. It’s the perfect place to slow down after a couple of busy sightseeing days. We really loved staying so close to the park at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hyde Park, and it felt like you weren’t staying in a busy city.

The park is open and lively, and it’s a great spot for a walk, a coffee break, or just sitting on a bench and resting your feet. It’s also well-connected to nearby neighborhoods and tourist attractions like Kensington Palace, so it’s easy to fit into your itinerary.

Spending a bit of time here really helps balance out the intensity of sightseeing! 

Kensington Gardens

Spending the afternoon in Kensington Gardens is an elegant way to enjoy London. The palace itself is fascinating to walk through, and the exhibits are touching as you learn about past British monarchs.

It’s more elegant and polished than Hyde Park, and it’s one of my favorite green spaces in London. Walking past Kensington Palace, with wide paths and open lawns, honestly feels like something out of an episode of The Crown.

The area is calm and beautifully maintained, and if you have a second, I highly recommend enjoying afternoon tea in Kensington Gardens. 

I still remember the experience from when I was twelve, and it was one of my favorite parts of our trip. It’s a lovely way to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing. The setting is beautiful, and the sandwiches and pastries are delicious! 

➡️ Book your Kensington Gardens afternoon tea here!

West End Theatre Show

End your day with a West End show, one of the best ways to spend an evening in London. The performances are consistently world-class, and there’s always something exciting on, with shows rotating regularly.

I wish we had more time to see a performance, but it’s very cool that they have classical performances like Les Miserables and Phantom of the Opera, as well as some more modern musicals and shows playing in the theater.

If you can, book your tickets in advance for better seat options and pricing. Ending the day at the theatre feels special and very “London,” and it’s such a fun way to experience the city.

Alternative Things to Do in London

If you have more than two days in London, or you want to swap out a few stops, there’s no shortage of things to do. London is the kind of city where you could visit multiple times and still feel like you just scratched the surface. These options are great if you want to tailor your trip based on your interests (like food, views, museums, or pop culture).

Notting Hill

Notting Hill is bright, charming, and surprisingly quiet, especially earlier in the day. The pastel-colored houses and the calm streets make it feel almost storybook-like, and it’s one of the prettiest neighborhoods to wander through in London.

For the best experience, I recommend exploring Notting Hill on a small-group walking tour. You’ll see the famous blue door from the Notting Hill film, stroll through Portobello Road Market, and learn more about the area’s history.

The tour also takes you past recording studios once frequented by Bob Marley and other well-known artists, which adds an unexpected layer to the neighborhood.

➡️ Book your spot on the Notting Hill tour here!

Portobello Road Market

Portobello Road Market is iconic. The antiques and vintage stalls really stand out, and browsing here feels like stepping back in time. Saturdays are the busiest, so make sure you arrive early.

Pairing this market with a Notting Hill stroll works perfectly. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s a fun place to explore.

Columbia Road Flower Market

Columbia Road Flower Market is bursting with color, with flowers lining the street in every direction. The market is only open on Sundays and gets very crowded, so arriving early makes a huge difference.

Even if you don’t plan on buying anything, walking through the market is an experience on its own. It’s incredibly photogenic and such a fun way to start the day.

With so many markets in London, it can be hard to choose just one, so exploring with a local guide can be a great option. A Londoner can show you where to shop, what to skip, and how to get the best deals! 

➡️ Click here to book your London Sunday markets tour!

Camden Town & Camden Market

Camden Market is loud and bold. It’s one of the best spots in London for street food and vintage shopping, and there’s a strong music culture that gives the area its edgy vibe. As you browse the stalls, you’ll see plenty of alternative fashion and creative finds.

It can feel chaotic, especially on weekends, but that energy is part of what makes Camden so fun. It’s definitely worth visiting if you want to see a different, more unconventional side of London.

O2 Arena & Up at The O2

The O2 is one of London’s biggest entertainment hubs, and climbing Up at The O2 is a really unique way to see the city from above. The experience involves walking across the dome, and the views from the top are absolutely worth it.

I recommend going around sunset if you can to make the experience even more memorable.

Jack the Ripper Tour

The Jack the Ripper tour is eerie but extremely well done. It dives into the historical context surrounding one of London’s most infamous criminal cases, as you follow your guide through the streets of East London. The storytelling and detail make the experience both informative and chilling.

Walking through Whitechapel at night adds an extra layer to the tour and really brings Victorian London to life. For the spookiest experience, I recommend doing this tour in the evening to see a darker, lesser-known side of the city. But disclaimer, it might be hard to fall asleep that night from the adrenaline! 

➡️ Reserve your spot on the Jack the Ripper tour here!

Sky Garden / Horizon 22

Sky Garden and Horizon 22 both offer incredible city views completely for free. Advance reservations are required, especially for sunset time slots, but the views are absolutely worth the planning.

Horizon 22 is London’s tallest free viewing platform, while Sky Garden feels more polished and relaxed, with greenery throughout the space. It really depends on what kind of experience you’re after, but I personally preferred Sky Garden for its interior and atmosphere.

Both do accept walk-ins, but availability is limited, so booking ahead is the safest option.

The British Museum

The British Museum is one of those places that instantly shows just how far-reaching London’s history really is. Walking through the galleries feels like traveling across continents and centuries in only a few hours. Seeing highlights like the Rosetta Stone and the Egyptian mummies in person is even more impressive than expected.

Because the museum is massive, it can feel overwhelming without a plan. I found that a small-group guided tour helped narrow the focus to the most important exhibits while adding helpful context. It made the visit feel much more intentional and less rushed.

➡️ Book your The British Museum tour here!

Tate Modern

Tate Modern has a cool, edgy atmosphere and focuses on contemporary art. The exhibitions change often, which keeps the museum feeling fresh and interesting.

Some of the artwork can feel abstract or hard to understand, but that’s part of what makes Tate Modern fun. Visiting with a guide helps explain the themes behind the art and makes the experience more approachable. Even if modern art isn’t usually your thing, Tate Modern is still worth checking out.

➡️ Click here to book your Tate Modern tour!

The National Gallery

The National Gallery is a must-visit if you love classic art. There are famous works by Van Gogh, Monet, and da Vinci, and the museum’s location makes it easy to fit into your sightseeing day.

The gallery’s collection can feel a bit overwhelming if you’re trying to explore on your own.

This tour covers all of the highlights and explains more history about the pieces, and you can ask questions about how the museum was able to curate these pieces (which is also super interesting!) It’s a smaller, shorter tour, and it allows you to focus on the most iconic pieces.

➡️ Reserve your spot on The National Gallery tour here!

Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum is massive and immediately reminded me of the Natural History Museum in DC. The dinosaur skeletons are one of the most popular exhibits, and the museum as a whole is very family-friendly.

The building itself feels like a grand cathedral, and there’s so much to explore and learn. If you’re visiting with family or want a deeper understanding of the exhibits, a guided tour is a great option. Even if you don’t normally love museums, this one is absolutely worth your time.

➡️ Click here to book your spot on this Natural History Museum tour!

Victoria and Albert Museum

The Victoria and Albert Museum focuses on art, fashion, and design, and it feels very different from more traditional history museums. The exhibits range from fashion and decorative arts to sculptures and portraits, making it a great stop for creatives or anyone interested in design.

If you want a deeper dive into the museum, a private tour is a great option. You’ll learn about civilizations from around the world and see standout pieces like Da Vinci’s notebooks and the world’s oldest Persian carpet. The tour also includes time to enjoy the museum’s beautiful Victorian-era café, which is an experience in itself.

➡️ Book your private Victoria and Albert Museum tour here!

Kew Gardens

Kew Gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful green spaces in London. The gardens are carefully curated, with impressive glasshouses showcasing plants from around the world.

It’s a great spot if you love nature or want a slower-paced afternoon after visiting major landmarks. The gardens can get crowded, especially on weekends, so buying tickets in advance is a good idea. A self-guided audio tour adds extra context and helps you appreciate what you’re seeing.

➡️ Book your Kew Gardens tour here!

Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studio Tour

Visiting the Warner Bros. Studio was such a fun experience and really does make you feel like you’ve stepped into the movies. You can see original props, try Butterbeer, and take photos on Hagrid’s motorbike, which is a highlight for any fan.

Tours that include transportation make everything easy and stress-free. If you’re a true Potterhead, this experience is absolutely worth the time commitment, even if you don’t visit any other Harry Potter-related spots in London.

➡️ Reserve your spot on the Harry Potter Studio tour!

King’s Cross Station – Platform 9¾ & Harry Potter Shop

Platform 9¾ is a quick but fun stop, especially if you’re a Harry Potter fan. You can take a photo with the trolley disappearing into the wall, and the attached shop is great for browsing themed souvenirs.

Even when it’s busy, the line moves fairly quickly, making it an easy stop while passing through King’s Cross Station. If you want to see more filming locations, a Harry Potter walking tour is a great way to cover Platform 9¾ while also visiting other spots tied to the films.

➡️ Click here to book the Harry Potter walking tour!

Neal’s Yard & Colorful Alleys

Neal’s Yard is a colorful hidden gem tucked away in central London. Bright buildings surround a small courtyard filled with cafés and shops, and it’s one of the most photogenic spots in the city.

I recommend visiting in the morning when it’s quieter. It’s the perfect place to grab a coffee and take a short break from the busy streets nearby. It’s a small stop, but a really memorable one.

Places to Eat & Drink in London

London’s food scene is diverse, exciting, and honestly a little bit expensive. It reminded me of Northern VA/DC area prices, but the quality is definitely there. You can eat incredibly well, and of course, if you’re on a budget, I’d stick to street food stalls.

These were some of my favorite spots we ate in London, and spots I’ve heard great things about from locals! 

Hjem Coffee

Hjem Coffee is very cozy and Scandinavian-inspired. They have two locations, and the one near Kensington Gardens is the best one. They have great spots to catch up on some remote work, and their pastries are absolutely delicious. I tried their turmeric latte, and I really enjoyed it!

The coffee quality really stands out, and it’s a great spot for a slower morning. 

Afternoon Tea

Afternoon tea is a very British experience and worth doing at least once. I recommend spending an afternoon at Kensington Palace to feel like real British royalty! Expect scones, finger sandwiches, pastries, and an elegant atmosphere (I would dress at least business casual).

Be sure to make reservations in advance, especially if you’re considering a popular spot like Kensington Palace.

➡️ Reserve your spot on an afternoon tea here!

The Victoria Pub, London

We stumbled across The Victoria Pub, and had an amazing time! It’s a classic spot for traditional British food. I had their steak and onion pie, and my partner had the fish and chips, and both were cooked to perfection. The interior is really cozy, historic, and quirky, and it’s always a busy spot.

Their pub dishes are hearty and comforting, highly recommend it!

YiQi

Located in Chinatown, YiQi is a Michelin Guide-recommended spot that offers flavorful Chinese and Malaysian dishes in a modern setting. The food is absolutely incredible.

We had their fried rice with chicken, fish in curry sauce, and quail, and everything was cooked to perfection with bold flavors. I also recommend their taro milk tea, which is absolutely beautiful.

It’s a very Instagrammable spot, popular with locals, and is a nice break from traditional pub food if you want something different.

Curry House

Eating curry in London is essential, especially on Brick Lane. Be sure to check out the curry houses on Brick Lane for bold, comforting flavors. I recommend doing some research and reading reviews to find a good spot, but honestly, you can’t go wrong with any of the Curry Houses on Brick Lane. 

Sunday Roast

Sunday roast is another very British tradition, and a lot of pubs and restaurants offer special dishes, specifically on Sundays. Expect to find crispy potatoes, paired with meat and rich gravy. It’s a cozy way to experience British food culture, and the meal will leave you super full and satisfied. 

How to Get to London

London is extremely well-connected and easy to reach from almost anywhere. Major airports include Heathrow, Gatwick, and Stansted, and international trains arrive at St. Pancras Station via Eurostar.

You can buy tickets online from sites like Trainline, and they will take you from Heathrow or Stansted airport to London. From there, you can take the tube to get to your hotel! 

We took the train from Stansted to Sheffield, and then, Sheffield to London without any problem. It’s a convenient way to get around the UK. 

How to Get Around London

Getting around London is surprisingly straightforward once you get the hang of the transport system. The city is huge, but it’s incredibly well-connected, which makes moving between neighborhoods much easier than you might expect.

• Tube: The Tube is fast, efficient, and the easiest way to get around for most visitors. You can tap in and out with a contactless credit card or Apple Pay, so there’s no need to buy tickets in advance. Trains run frequently, and Google Maps works perfectly for navigating routes. I recommend downloading a map of London via offline maps, and sharing your location so you can see where you are if you don’t have any data in London! 
• Buses: London buses are cheaper than the Tube and a great option if you want to actually see the city as you travel. They’re ideal for shorter distances and scenic routes, especially when you’re not in a rush. Sitting on the top level gives you a mini sightseeing experience while getting from point A to point B.
• Walking: London is an excellent city for walking, especially within central areas where attractions are clustered together. Walking allows you to really soak up the neighborhoods, stumble upon cafés, and notice smaller details you’d miss underground. We walked a lot (around 25k steps per day), but you don’t have to with other transportation options like the Tube.
• Thames Boat Services: Boat services along the Thames, like Uber Boat by Thames Clippers, are a fun and scenic way to get around. River cruises are also a great option if you want to rest your feet while still sightseeing. It’s not always the fastest method, but it’s one of the most enjoyable.
• Cabs / Uber:  Taxis and Uber are helpful late at night, when you’re tired, or when routes get complicated. They’re more expensive than public transport, but worth it in certain situations, especially after a long day of sightseeing or when heading back from a show and the Tube has closed down. 

Is It Safe in London?

Overall, I felt very safe in London throughout our trip. I’ll note that I was traveling as a female with a guy, which definitely made walking around (especially at night) feel more comfortable. That said, even during the day and in busy areas, London felt well-policed and organized.

Like any large city, it’s still important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas where pickpocketing can happen. Stick to well-lit streets at night, keep an eye on your belongings, and use public transport or rideshares if you’re unsure about a route.

Personally, I still recommend carrying pepper spray or a personal safety alarm, just for peace of mind, especially if you’re traveling solo.

The Best Time to Visit London

Late spring through early fall is the best time to visit London. May, June, and September are especially ideal, with pleasant weather and slightly fewer crowds than peak summer. These months are perfect for walking, parks, and outdoor markets.

July and August are popular but can be very busy and more expensive. December is another great option if you don’t mind colder weather, as the city really shines with festive lights, holiday markets, and seasonal decorations. Just be prepared for crowds and shorter daylight hours!

Conclusion

Two days in London go by incredibly fast, but with some planning, it’s enough time to see the city’s highlights and get a real feel for it. Focus on neighborhoods that are close together, balance major landmarks with slower moments, and don’t try to do everything at once.

London is the kind of city that you really need to visit more than once to get a good feel of it. I hope you enjoy London as much as I did!

Happy travels!