Visiting London in 3 Days

Are you planning a getaway to visit London in 3 days and looking for some practical information? You're in the right place! If you're wondering what to do in London, know that this iconic city offers an unparalleled cultural, historical, and artistic diversity, and even though 3 days aren't enough to see everything, you'll still catch quite a bit!

Stroll through the alleyways of Covent Garden, discover Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and the Parliament along the Thames, and admire London at night from the heights of the London Eye! London in 3 days is a whirlwind of urban and cultural adventures that I invite you to explore right now in this practical guide

Let me tell you upfront, 3 days in London is a bit short to see all the city's must-sees. The ideal duration for a proper visit can vary depending on your availability and budget, but I recommend spending at least 4 to 5 days in the city for a more in-depth exploration

In 3 days in London, you will still have enough time to visit iconic attractions such as the British Museum, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, visit Big Ben and Tower Bridge, as well as wander through iconic neighborhoods like Soho, Covent Garden, and Notting Hill.

By dedicating a few extra days, you can also explore lesser-known places, visit local markets, enjoy restaurants, and take the time to immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of certain neighborhoods! London is a vibrant city with a considerable cultural richness, so more time allows for a more complete and less rushed experience!

Your 3 days in London will fly by quickly, so here are some tips and tricks to avoid wasting time unnecessarily during your stay <-️

For popular attractions like the Tower of London, the London Eye, or the British Museum, buy your tickets in advance to avoid long lines. Although the ticket price is a bit higher for skip-the-line access, you'll save a lot of time. Don't hesitate to get a London Pass to save some money

To visit London in 3 days, I suggest the Go City All-Inclusive Pass. In my opinion, this is the best option suitable for the itineraries I propose in this guide. For a 3-day trip, this card will cost you about €149 and give you access to over 110 popular attractions in London

By getting this pass, or another Go City pass, you can visit London's museums, royal palaces, historical monuments, and many must-see sites <-️

What I mean by >, is a period when tourist density is relatively moderate and the weather remains pleasant ☀️ There really aren't any calm periods to visit London since the city attracts visitors every year, but for a short stay, it's still important to target a time when there are fewer people. This period generally extends from January to May.

However, it's essential to mention that the amount of sunlight from January to March is very limited! Night falls quickly and rainfall is relatively abundant ️ That's why I rather recommend the months of April and May for visiting London in 3 days, preferably during the week. One last important point: be sure to check when Easter and the spring school holidays occur to avoid the crowds!

Without any hesitation, I strongly recommend opting for well-located accommodation, ideally in the city center, to minimize travel time between tourist sites. If you don't want to dive into lengthy searches since you plan to visit London in just 3 days, you can use a comparison website like Booking. Otherwise, here are 3 top suggestions right here and a more exhaustive list at the end of the article

The London Underground network is efficient and will allow you to move quickly between different neighborhoods. Also use the double-decker buses for a tourist experience while commuting You can also take a hop-on hop-off bus tour for about €48 per person to quickly see other areas, in addition to enjoying audio commentary!

One piece of advice I always give is to take advantage of breakfast at the hotel. If there's a hearty and comprehensive buffet, eat well to allow yourself to delay the next meal

To save money, enjoy the diversity of London's cuisine by opting for quick meals in local markets like Camden Market. It's an effective way to discover the city's culinary culture!

Sorry for the late risers, but you'll have to make an effort! Maximize your time by starting your days early, especially for popular attractions. This will help you avoid the crowds and fully enjoy your stay. Considering the pace of the days ahead during your visit to London in 3 days, you won't last long in the evenings!

The unmissable Big Ben, officially called the Elizabeth Tower, is the emblem of London. This neo-Gothic clock tower majestically rises above the Palace of Westminster, housing the British Parliament. Built in 1859, its name refers to the 13.5-ton bell that resonates inside

Visitors can admire its architecture from Parliament Square. Around it, the Palace of Westminster, the London Eye, Westminster Abbey, and Buckingham Palace are must-see attractions!

The Westminster Abbey is an iconic Gothic church built in the 13th century that has been the venue for the coronation of British monarchs since William the Conqueror in 1066. The famous Abbey Cloister features stunning Gothic architecture and offers a peaceful contemplation space which I invite you to visit if you're spending 3 days in London ☺️

Its interior houses Poets' Corner, where many illustrious writers and poets such as Charles Dickens and Geoffrey Chaucer rest. The north wing of the abbey showcases a collection of statutes of British monarchs in addition to the abbey museum with exhibits about its history. For entrance to Westminster Abbey, expect to pay about €35 per person.

Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarchy in London, is a major historical and cultural emblem. Built in 1703, it is the residence of King Charles III. Visitors can witness the Changing of the Guard, a spectacular daily tradition. A must-see attraction, even if you're only visiting London in 3 days ‍♀️

Nearby, St James's Park offers a peaceful retreat. The Mall, an iconic avenue, leads to Trafalgar Square, where the National Gallery stands. Art lovers can explore the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Royal Albert Hall nearby, so if you have some free time, enjoy it!

Useful information: it is possible to visit the State Rooms of Buckingham Palace when the King is away, from mid-July to mid-September. For the rest of the year, you can only witness the Changing of the Guard, which takes place every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday at 11 AM (be early!).

Trafalgar Square is an iconic square named after the Battle of Trafalgar, home to Nelson's Column. After strolling around this area, feel free to visit the National Gallery, which charges an entrance fee of €23

The National Gallery was founded in 1824 and houses a vast collection of European art from the 13th to the 19th century. Among its notable works are > by Holbein and > by Leonardo da Vinci. If you have time, go explore the surrounding neighborhoods, including Leicester Square, Covent Garden, and the West End, which are filled with theaters, restaurants, and shops ️

Once the sun sets, it's the perfect time to enjoy the London Eye! It's also known as the Millennium Wheel, a large observation wheel located on the south bank of the Thames in London

Inaugurated in 2000, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. At 135 meters tall, it is one of the largest observation wheels in the world. The rotating capsules provide an immersive 30-minute experience for about €36 per person. Treat yourself to this moment to wrap up your day of sightseeing

We are on the second day of our London visit! The day before, you got to discover some of the iconic locations in the British capital. For this new day, I've got even more suggestions for you to make the most of your 3 days in London, so let's go!

Start the day by visiting Camden Town, located in North London. Known for its eclectic and alternative vibe that attracts music, art, and fashion lovers, the Camden Market, one of the largest markets in London, is a must-see, even for a quick trip visiting London in 3 days.

It offers a variety of items, from vintage clothing to handmade goods. The famous Camden Lock is also home to international food stalls

There's also the Roundhouse, an iconic concert hall hosting a diverse array of live performances. Stables Market and Electric Ballroom are also popular spots! If you want to shop, Camden High Street has plenty of trendy boutiques

Before visiting the first museum of the day, pass by Regent's Park, one of the largest royal parks in London, established in the early 19th century. It offers a green oasis of 166 acres

The Queen Mary's Garden, the park's oldest segment, delights with its neatly tended flowerbeds. The Boating Lake provides water activities, while Regent's University London offers a student setting ‍

Don't miss the London Zoo, which is integrated into the park, attracting animal lovers. The Queen Mary's Gardens are famous for their roses, and Primrose Hill offers a panoramic view of the city!

My next suggestion for your visit to London in 3 days is: why not visit the British Museum? It is one of the largest museums in the world! Founded in 1753, it houses a diverse collection of over eight million objects spanning from Prehistory to the present.

Among its treasures are the Rosetta Stone, the Parthenon sculptures, and Egyptian mummies. The galleries showcase world history, with sections dedicated to Asia, Africa, America, and Europe. You will also enjoy the Great Court, impressive in its size

Admission to the British Museum is free, but access to galleries and exhibitions requires a fixed time reservation for guaranteed entry. A donation of £5 is suggested. However, access to temporary exhibitions and certain events may incur a fee, so feel free to check out the official site! You can also book a guided tour for the British Museum for about €58 if you want to learn more.

After your lunch break, head for a walk towards the Tower of London! Count on about a 20-minute walk, you'll also pass near the Sky Garden ️

The Tower of London was erected in the 11th century by William the Conqueror, a historic symbol of the city. This medieval fortress served as a prison, royal palace, and treasury. Inside, discover the Crown Jewels of Great Britain, including the Cullinan, the largest cut emerald in the world

For this historical monument of the British Monarchy, make sure to carry a ticket for the Tower of London and the Crown Jewels for €42 per person, as it tends to get extremely crowded!

Explore the White Tower, housing an exhibition of royal armor, and the Bloody Tower, associated with the mysterious disappearances of princes... The adjacent Tower Bridge offers a panoramic view of London

Just a 5-minute walk away, you'll come across the Tower Bridge, an iconic emblem of the 19th century! Built between 1886 and 1894, this imposing structure of steel and granite crosses the Thames, linking the districts of Tower Hamlets and Southwark.

Its unique design, with its two neo-Gothic towers, allows for raising to let ships pass. Inside, the Tower Bridge Exhibition offers an immersive experience of its history, featuring interactive exhibits and panoramic views from the glass walkways

Let yourself be convinced by the Victorian architecture and engineering of the engine room. And of course, take your time to enjoy the sensational views of London from its glass floors. For entry, expect to pay €19 per person.

End your day beautifully with a powerful viewpoint from The Shard, also known as Shard of Glass, an iconic skyscraper located in Southwark, on the south bank of the Thames, opposite the City of London ️

Standing at 310 meters, it has dominated the city skyline since 2012. Designed by architect Renzo Piano, it houses offices, restaurants, hotels, and luxury apartments ️

Visitors can access the viewing platform > on the 72nd floor, which offers a panoramic view of London. The entrance ticket costs about €33. Inside, the interactive experience provides information on the city's landmarks and restaurants like Aqua Shard for a culinary experience with a spectacular view.

Here we are, the last day of this itinerary to visit London in 3 days. After two intense days of tours, today will be more focused on strolling and discovering the capital You'll have the chance to visit iconic neighborhoods and even do some shopping if you wish ️

You start your day in Notting Hill, an iconic neighborhood known for its distinctive charm. Its colorful market, the Portobello Road Market, attracts crowds with its vintage stalls and exotic products. Holland Park provides a green escape, while the famous blue house of Notting Hill, immortalized in the eponymous film, attracts movie lovers

Don't miss the chance to admire St. John's Church, an architectural treasure adorned with beautiful stained glass. I also recommend visiting the Leighton House Museum, a former residence of a Victorian artist, which offers a delightful dive into the artistic aesthetic of the time

You can continue your stroll by heading to Hyde Park, one of the largest royal parks in the city, covering no less than 142 acres. Established in the 16th century, it offers a green getaway in the heart of London's hustle and bustle

In an itinerary for visiting London in 3 days, a walk in a park may not seem productive, but think again, Hyde Park has more than one highlight. Indeed, the park's strengths include the Serpentine Lake, perfect for boating, and the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain. Notable statues include that of Albert, Prince Consort. Inside, Kensington Palace, the former residence of Princess Diana, will attract your attention. Speakers' Corner, sites for public debates, and Marble Arch are also must-sees in Hyde Park.

Continue your visit of London in 3 days towards Soho, a neighborhood known for its cultural vitality and eclectic mix. The cobblestone streets are home to trendy boutiques, art galleries, and a variety of restaurants ️

Art enthusiasts can explore the White Cube Gallery, while music lovers can grab a drink at Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club. Theaters like Soho Theatre and Prince Edward Theatre host varied shows. For shopping, head to Carnaby Street, famous for its trendy shops

You'll need less than 10 minutes' walk to reach Piccadilly Circus, one of the most iconic and impressive places in London! Surrounded by skyscrapers and bright billboards, it is the convergence point of several major thoroughfares. At the center stands the statue of Eros, the anti-cyclone.

Attractions include the Piccadilly Lights, a suite of electronic billboards. Nearby is Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain. Renowned theaters like the Criterion Theatre and Piccadilly Theatre are accessible from the square, along with various shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues!

Finish your day by heading to Covent Garden, a lively and iconic neighborhood. Known for its historic market, it hosts a variety of shops, restaurants, and theaters

The Royal Opera House at the center offers world-class performances. Nearby, Covent Garden Market offers a variety of clothing and handmade products of all kinds, the perfect place to pick up some souvenirs from your vacation. Inside the market, explore the Apple Market for vintage products, while the Jubilee Market offers contemporary crafts.

By choosing to stay in Westminster, you'll be in the heart of London in an iconic neighborhood steeped in political and architectural history. Dominated by the majestic Big Ben and the Parliament, it offers an unparalleled backdrop along with Westminster Abbey, the coronation site of monarchs

The riverside of the Thames allows for picturesque walks with views of the London Eye. The green spaces of St James's Park offer a peaceful getaway. Between grand monuments and symbolic institutions, Westminster is a must if you want to be close to everything!

Wellington Hotel by Blue Orchid is a 4-star hotel located in the heart of London, at Vincent Square. You will be less than a 15-minute walk from Westminster Abbey and St James's Park. The rooms offered by the establishment are comfortable, quiet, and elegantly decorated. The hotel also has a gym, restaurant, and bar. Expect to pay from €183 per night for a room in this hotel.

The Westminster London is an excellent choice if you have a comfortable budget. Located in the heart of Westminster, the rooms in this award-winning establishment are stylish and comfortable. It has a gym, two restaurants, and a bar. You'll be a 15-minute walk from Buckingham Palace and a 20-minute walk from Victoria train and bus stations. Rates start from €176 per night for two people.

Famous for its vibrant nightlife, theaters, international restaurants, and trendy bars, Soho attracts with its artistic history and bohemian atmosphere. You can stroll through the cobbled streets and do some shopping or window shopping in the array of independent boutiques that dot the area. For culture lovers, you'll find joy in the art galleries. Finally, if you need a little break, Soho is not short of trendy cafés to sit down in. In short, the neighborhood is an excellent option if you're still wondering where to stay in London!

Close to Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus, Soho allows easy access to all the entertainment London has to offer. Despite its former reputation linked to illegal activities and prostitution, Soho is now one of the trendiest and most charming neighborhoods in London with a variety of accommodations available.

Montcalm Piccadilly Townhouse is a 5-star hotel located 300 meters from Leicester Square and a 5-minute walk from Piccadilly Circus. The rooms offered are spacious, well-equipped, comfortable, and decorated in a modern and elegant style. The hotel has a gym, a restaurant, and a bar. For a stay in this hotel, prepare a budget starting from €218 per night!

The Z Hotel Tottenham is in the heart of Soho, 200 meters from Carnaby Street. The rooms feature neat and simple decorations and are available from €103 per night for a double room. Close to everything, you'll easily enjoy shops, bars, and restaurants!

By staying in Covent Garden, you'll enjoy a lively atmosphere with a variety of shops, restaurants, and theaters. The Royal Opera House stands in the center, offering beautiful performances.

Covent Garden Market, with its artisanal products, clothing, and souvenirs - not to mention the Apple Market and Jubilee Market offers contemporary handmade creations. I think this neighborhood will appeal to those who want to shop and discover a maximum of new flavors

The Z Hotel Trafalgar has its own bar as well as very comfortable, modern, and well-decorated rooms. You'll be near various popular attractions such as the National Gallery as well as the Lyceum and Arts Theatre. Trafalgar Square is just 400 meters away. To spend a night in this establishment, count on starting from €100 per night for a double room.

NoMad London enjoys a perfect location in Covent Garden. The rooms are very spacious and elegant, featuring wooden floors and refined furniture. For a night in this high-end establishment, you'll need to spend at least €585 per night. On-site, you can enjoy 3 restaurants, a gym, and a bar.

At the heart of the action, Piccadilly Circus lights up with its iconic billboards and constant hustle. The square is surrounded by theaters, restaurants, and shops, great if the hustle doesn't bother you.

The street of the same name, Piccadilly, houses prestigious brands, while the proximity to Leicester Square offers easy access to cinemas and nighttime attractions. Furthermore, this neighborhood is one of the most expensive in London, so prepare your budget well. Rarely will you find nights for less than €250-300

The Dilly is a 5-star hotel located between Piccadilly Circus and Regent's Street. You'll be 10 minutes on foot from Oxford Street, Leicester Square, and Covent Garden, and 5 minutes from Piccadilly. The rooms in this hotel are elegantly furnished, quiet, and spacious. The property has a beautiful indoor swimming pool, a spa with hammam, a gym, a restaurant, and a bar. For a night in this hotel, expect to pay starting from €278.

The Cavendish London is a superb establishment located just a 10-minute walk from Buckingham Palace and Trafalgar Square. You will stay in an elegant setting, with comfortable and tastefully decorated rooms. Expect rates starting from €283 per night for two people.

And there you have it, the end of this article on how to visit the English capital for a long weekend. Thank you for taking the time to read, I hope my itinerary helps you prepare well for your next trip and that you're ready to visit London in 3 days! If you're unsure when to visit the capital, you can check out my guides on London in June or London in December for some information