My London in 2 days adventure started right after my 10-day Northern Europe cruise, which ended in the British capital. I had never been here before, so I decided to spend at least three days in the city: one exploring the Cotswolds, and the other two following my own little London travel guide through the heart of the city.
London turned out to be a lot more chaotic than I expected, but in the best possible way: modern, loud, and full of surprises. You can walk from a royal palace to a noisy pub in minutes, with massive green parks surrounded by a concrete jungle that never stops buzzing.
What surprised me most was how incredibly diverse it is. People from every corner of the world bring their own stories, energy, and accents, turning London into a mix of cultures that feels more like a country than just one city. The good news is that most landmarks are packed around the center, which makes planning your own London in 2 days itinerary much easier than you’d think.
A few important facts about London
- The River Thames cuts the city in two and has shaped its history, trade, and skyline for centuries. Almost every major landmark sits close to it, and it’s the perfect backdrop for your own 2 days in London adventure.
- London has been destroyed and rebuilt several times: by fire, war, and time itself, yet it somehow keeps its charm untouched.
- It’s home to over 9 million people and more than 300 languages are spoken here. Basically, you can travel the world without leaving the city.
- There are more green spaces in London than in most European capitals, which makes it one of the rare megacities where you can spot squirrels in the middle of chaos.
- Despite its size, central London is surprisingly walkable, perfect for those (like me) who love exploring on foot and somehow always end up with 20,000 steps. That’s one of the best things to do in London if you ask me.
Where to stay in London
I stayed near King’s Cross and it was a great choice. The neighborhood is quite central, easy to get to by the Underground, and great if you just have a few days to see most of the sights. It’s also close to St. Pancras Station, which makes it great for people traveling by train or going to the airport.
Some other fantastic places to stay in London are:
- Westminster is great if you want to wake up close to Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and all the royal aura.
- Soho or Covent Garden are both full of life, restaurants, theaters, and that cool London vitality that never sleeps.
- Kensington is classy, quiet, and close to museums and Hyde Park.
- Notting Hill is vibrant and lovely, especially if you like pastel buildings and weekend markets.
If you’re planning how to visit London in 2 days as a first timer, choose accommodation close to the city center, so you waste no time commuting. Now, here’s how you can choose your stay based on your budget:
- low-budget: The Resident Victoria – a modern hotel just steps from Buckingham Palace, featuring stylish rooms with mini-kitchens, free Wi-Fi, and easy access to London’s top attractions.
- mid-range: Milestone Hotel Kensington– a luxurious 5-star boutique hotel overlooking Kensington Palace, offering elegant rooms, fine dining, a spa, and easy access to London’s top attractions and shopping.
- luxury: The Peninsula London. – a 5-star luxury hotel in the city centre, featuring elegant rooms, world-class dining, a spa, and a prime location near Buckingham Palace and Harrods.
How to visit London in 2 days as a first timer
Day 1 – exploring the royal and iconic side of the city
On my first day in London, I focused on the must-see attractions, the ones that define the city and happen to be close to where I was staying. If it’s your first time here, this is exactly where you should start.
Start your London trip with a view to the London Eye and Big Ben from Westminster Bridge
This was the very first place I went to in London; obviously, I was too curious to finally see those landmarks I had seen in every English textbook at school. Westminster Bridge is the perfect spot to start your trip, because here you get that picture-perfect view with Big Ben on one side and the London Eye spinning slowly on the other.
It’s a lot more crowded than I expected, with street sellers, food stalls, and performers popping up out of nowhere. The vibe feels almost like a street fair, chaotic but charming at the same time. Still, the view is beautiful, especially when the sun hits the Thames and everything looks golden for a few minutes.
The London Eye, originally called the Millennium Wheel, stands 135 meters tall and takes about 30 minutes for one full rotation. From the top, you get panoramic views over the entire city, and if you’re feeling fancy, this is the moment to book a river cruise from the nearby Westminster Pier.
Right across the bridge stands Big Ben, officially known as the Elizabeth Tower. Built in 1859, it’s 96 meters high and is the third tallest clock tower in the world, after the ones in Mecca and Philadelphia.
Step inside history at Westminster Abbey
Just a few steps away from Big Ben you’ll find two of London’s biggest stars: Westminster Abbey and the Palace of Westminster. Even if you don’t go inside (I didn’t either), they’re totally worth a stop. The Gothic details are so over the top it feels like the buildings are showing off a bit, and honestly, they have every reason to. Westminster Abbey has seen it all: royal weddings, coronations, even funerals; basically, it’s the VIP lounge of British history.
Across the street, the Palace of Westminster stands tall and dramatic, home to the UK Parliament since the 19th century rebuild after that famous fire. If you’re planning 2 days in London and wondering what to see in London in two days, this spot is a must on any London itinerary or London travel guide. You simply can’t talk about how to visit London in two days without passing by this royal power duo.
Walk through King Charles Street Arch towards St James’s Park
Passing through the elegant King Charles Street Arch, you suddenly swap stone for nature and end up in the lovely St James’s Park. It’s one of the royal parks of London, not huge, but full of charm. I loved how alive it felt: squirrels everywhere, ducks and swans gliding on the lake.
It’s the kind of spot where you grab a coffee, sit on a bench, and forget you’re in one of the busiest capitals in the world. The view toward the London Eye from here is surprisingly pretty. I honestly didn’t expect to see it, but there it was, perfectly framed by trees. Cozy, peaceful, and simply beautiful.
Stroll through St James’s Park to Buckingham Palace
You simply can’t visit London without ending up in front of Buckingham Palace, it’s one of those places you’ve seen in pictures a thousand times, but it still gives you chills when you’re actually there.
This is where the Changing of the Guard takes place, one of London’s most famous traditions. It usually happens on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, starting at 10:45 AM and wrapping up around 11:30. Totally worth watching at least once.
I loved the area more than I expected. The Queen Victoria Memorial right in front of the palace is absolutely stunning. I actually walked around it a few times because it’s that impressive. The palace itself is surrounded by green spaces on all sides, and no matter where you stand, there’s always someone taking photos, filming TikToks, or just staring in awe.
Buckingham Palace is the official residence of the British monarch and can be visited during specific periods of the year. Even if you only admire it from the gates, it’s one of those must-see spots that make your 2 days in London feel complete.
Get lost in the green heart of Hyde Park
Just a 15-minute walk from Buckingham Palace, you’ll find Hyde Park, often called London’s answer to Central Park in NYC – though a bit smaller. It’s one of the city’s biggest and most beautiful green spaces, full of monuments, lakes, and countless swans. There’s even a Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial, hidden between trees and flower gardens.
When I visited, the grass was a bit dry from the lack of rain, but usually it’s lush and perfectly green, a true escape from London’s concrete chaos. The park often hosts big events like British Summer Time concerts and the magical Winter Wonderland around Christmas. Some corners look so natural you’d swear you’ve left the city behind.
If you’re searching for things to do in London that help you unwind between landmarks, Hyde Park is exactly what you need.
Get lost between Oxford Street and Soho
After so many royal palaces and calm gardens, I needed a dose of chaos, so I headed straight to Oxford Street and Soho. I walked for hours here and honestly loved every minute of it. The atmosphere is electric, full of music, street lights, and that “London never sleeps” kind of energy.
Oxford Street is basically a paradise for shopaholics, with over 300 stores lined up one after another. Even if you’re not into shopping, it’s fun just to watch the crowds and the crazy mix of styles. Then comes Soho, with its colorful pubs, vintage shops, and that artsy-meets-edgy vibe. I tried some interesting food here, it’s the kind of place where you can grab sushi, tacos, and fish & chips all on the same street.
Both are totally different by day and night, so try to see them twice. Daytime is all about fashion and people-watching; nighttime brings lights, music, and that slightly wild side of London that everyone talks about.
End your evening wandering through Chinatown’s colorful streets
Since Chinatown is right next to Soho, it’s impossible not to pass through, and honestly, it’s worth a quick stop. The streets are filled with bright red lanterns, Chinese restaurants, and the smell of noodles in the air. Still, if you’ve seen Chinatowns in places like New York or San Francisco, this one might feel a bit smaller and less impressive.
It’s nice for an evening walk though, especially with all the lights on. Grab a quick bite, snap a few photos, and keep exploring – this is one of those things to do in London that make the city’s diversity stand out.
Admire the elegant St Martin-in-the-Fields and wrap up the day at Trafalgar Square
Before ending the day, I stopped at Trafalgar Square. Street performers, people taking selfies, kids chasing pigeons; total chaos, but the good kind. Right next to it is St Martin-in-the-Fields, a lovely old church that somehow manages to feel calm in the middle of all that noise.
From here, you can easily walk back toward Westminster Bridge and see the London Eye glowing across the river. It’s the same view you started the day with, only now it’s dressed in lights and reflections.
Honestly, it’s the perfect way to end the first day of your 2 days in London. If you’re still wondering what to see in London in two days, this walk wraps everything up perfectly: history, energy, and those postcard views that make you fall a bit in love with the city.
After a full first day exploring London’s royal side, markets and bridges await for day two.
DAY 2- Waking up to London’s colorful side
My second day in London was all about colors: in the streets, in the buildings, and even in the sunset waiting at the end of the day. Everything felt brighter and somehow more alive. This was the moment I finally fell in love with the city. The first day left me curious, but this one… this one made me a believer.
Begin your next day with pastel streets in Notting Hill
If there’s one place that completely stole my heart, it’s Notting Hill. The vibe here is just different: calm, colorful, and a little dreamy. The pastel houses line the streets like something out of a movie (and honestly, many movies were filmed here). Some corners are so pretty you’ll want to move in on the spot.
This area is also home to the Notting Hill Carnival, one of Europe’s biggest street festivals, where music, food, and colors take over the neighborhood every August.
But even without the carnival, it’s the kind of place where you just want to wander with your camera, admire the charm, and soak up the atmosphere. Just remember, people actually live in those picture-perfect homes, so keep the photo sessions short and respectful.
For anyone planning two days in London or looking for ideas in a London travel guide, this spot is a must on any London itinerary. It’s impossible not to fall in love with this neighborhood once you see it, I know I did. For anyone searching things to do in London that feel more local and less touristy, Notting Hill is a must on your itinerary.
Hunt vintage treasures at Portobello Market
A few minutes away from Notting Hill’s pastel streets, you’ll find Portobello Market, a colorful mix of vintage shops, street stalls, and food stands that stretch for blocks. The whole place feels alive, noisy, and full of little surprises. I loved those iconic tote bags with Nothing Hill printed on them. So cute!
If you have time, grab a coffee and sit at one of the terraces to watch the chaos unfold. It’s that perfect mix of tourists, locals, and street performers that gives the area its energy. Then go treasure hunting, from antiques to handmade jewelry, you never know what unique souvenir you might find here. The best days to visit are Friday and Saturday, when the market is in full swing.
For anyone wondering what to see in London in two days, this is a must-stop on your London itinerary: a little vintage, a little chaotic, and a lot of fun.
Step back in time at the Tower of London
I’ll be honest, I didn’t know much about the Tower of London before seeing it, but it instantly caught my eye. The contrast between this medieval fortress and the modern skyscrapers around it is wild. One minute you’re looking at glass towers, the next you’re staring at thick stone walls built almost a thousand years ago.
The Tower of London is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites and was built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century. It’s been everything from a royal palace to a prison and now guards the Crown Jewels, talk about a dramatic résumé.
If you’re planning how to visit London in 2 days as a first timer, the Tower of London is one of those stops that truly helps you understand the city’s past.
Watch the sunset from the iconic Tower Bridge
This was the moment I fell in love with London. It felt like the city was saying, “You weren’t sure about me? Let me show you this sunset.” Standing on Tower Bridge, watching the sky turn pink and gold over the Thames, was honestly one of the most beautiful sunsets of my life.
We also walked along The Queen’s Walk, a riverside promenade lined with cafés, viewpoints, and street performers. The whole area has that relaxed yet cinematic feel that makes you want to stay just a bit longer. You can also go inside Tower Bridge and walk across the glass floor, we didn’t have time, but I like to think that’s London’s way of saying, you’ll be back.
If you’re wondering how to visit London in two days, make sure this moment is part of your London itinerary. For me, this sunset sealed the deal; it was pure magic, and easily my favorite memory from the trip.
Hop on a red double-decker bus and ride through the city
You can’t say you’ve been to London without hopping on one of those famous red double-decker buses. It’s one of the easiest and most authentic ways to get around the city, and honestly, it’s a lot of fun. Just… don’t try to walk down the stairs while the bus is moving. I did, and let’s just say gravity won that round.
Google Maps works perfectly here, so you’ll know exactly which route to take and where to get off. You don’t even need a ticket in advance, just tap your card when you get on. A ride costs £1.75, and it’s the perfect way to see London from above without joining a tour.
Definitely something to tick off your two days in London bucket list, and a must in any London travel guide or London itinerary.
Dive into the London Underground
Of course, at some point during your two days in London, you’ll end up taking the London Underground, or, as locals call it, The Tube. The red circle logo with the blue stripe is impossible to miss, and stations are literally everywhere. It’s fast, convenient, and… not exactly my favorite.
It’s usually hot, crowded, and yes, a bit pricey compared to the buses. We even got stuck twice in just two days, which felt like a lot. Still, it’s worth trying at least once or when you’re in a hurry and want to get across the city quickly (as long as you’re not the unlucky one stuck mid-tunnel). It’s part of the real London travel guide experience, not glamorous, but 100% authentic.
Catch the city lights in Covent Garden and Piccadilly Circus
When the sun goes down, Covent Garden is one of those places where you just want to hang around. There’s live music, people laughing over dinner, and that cozy glow from all the little lights under the glass roof. It’s a bit touristy, sure, but it has such a nice energy you don’t even care.
A few minutes away you’ll find Piccadilly Circus, where the city feels alive 24/7. Giant screens, red buses, crowds, and a chaos that somehow works perfectly. It’s loud, bright, and very London.
If you’re putting together your own London itinerary or figuring out what to see in London in two days, this is the kind of place you just have to experience once, preferably with your camera ready and zero expectations.
Take a break in lively Leicester Square
Leicester Square wasn’t really on my list, but somehow I ended up there, and I’m glad I did. It’s one of those places where London shows its wild side: lights flashing, music everywhere, and crowds that never seem to slow down. I grabbed something to drink and just stood there, watching everything move around me.
It’s chaotic, loud, and a little too much at times, but that’s what makes it fun. If you’re exploring London in two days, stop here for a few minutes. You’ll probably leave with a smile… and maybe a photo or two you didn’t plan to take.
Stop for a photo at the impressive Bush House on Aldwych
Bush House is one of those buildings that instantly make you stop and stare. It’s massive, elegant, and the columns give it that old London charm that feels straight out of a movie. For years, it was home to BBC World Service, and it still has that grand, slightly mysterious vibe.
You don’t need more than a few minutes here, but it’s totally worth a quick stop and a photo. If you’re exploring London in two days, this spot fits perfectly into your walk around the city center.
Where to eat in London
I’m definitely not a London food expert; I didn’t have much time to explore restaurants, so I mostly went for quick bites between sightseeing stops. Still, I found a few places I’d totally go back to.
Donutelier has insanely good doughnuts with all kinds of flavors, and if you’re into Korean street food, don’t miss Bunsik – they make the most popular Korean corn dogs in the UK. Try the Potato Mozzarella or Chicken Corn Dog; trust me, you’ll thank me later.
I also had a burger from Fat Hippo in Soho, which I’d rate a solid 8 out of 10. Pret a Manger cafés are literally everywhere, and I think they’ve become even more popular than Starbucks, perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
As always, I recommend checking TripAdvisor or Google Maps for nearby restaurants because London’s food scene changes fast. Oh, and a small note, I tried some Indian food here, but let’s just say it wasn’t exactly authentic. Stick to pizza instead; at least that one didn’t disappoint.
Things to know before visiting London
How to get to London
Getting to London is pretty easy; this city has so many connections with the rest of the world that it almost feels like all roads lead here. There are several airports, and most low-cost flights land at Stansted or Luton, while Heathrow and Gatwick handle most international routes. London City Airport is the closest to the center, but also the smallest and priciest.
If you’re already in Europe, you can also arrive by train. The Eurostar connects London to Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam, and it’s actually one of the most comfortable ways to travel; plus, you don’t have to deal with airport chaos. The train arrives at St. Pancras International, right next to King’s Cross, which makes it super convenient if you’re staying in central London.
How to get around London
Getting around London is easy and surprisingly fun if you pick the right transport. The Tube is the quickest way to move around, but it gets busy and warm, so not exactly my favorite. I loved the Double Decker buses instead – cheap, easy, and you get a mini sightseeing tour from the top floor. Just tap your card and enjoy the view.
If you’re not in a rush, walking is great in the central area, that’s how you’ll find London’s hidden gems. You can also try a Thames River cruise, which takes you between major sights and shows the city from a completely different angle. Honestly, buses, walking, and a bit of cruising are the perfect mix to explore London in two days without stress.
How many days do you need in London
One day in London? Forget it. You need at least two full days just to see the essentials, and even that feels like running a marathon between landmarks. This city is huge, and every corner hides something new.
Honestly, the upper limit doesn’t exist, London could easily keep you busy for weeks. Just open GetYourGuide and you’ll see hundreds of tours, museums, and experiences waiting for you. If you want to visit comfortably and tick off the main highlights, I’d say a week is a good start. I only had two days, and it felt like I’d just scratched the surface, enough to know I definitely want to come back.
How expensive is London
London is definitely not cheap, but it’s not terrifyingly expensive either. Prices are pretty similar to other big European capitals, and if you plan a bit, you can visit without breaking the bank. You can find decent Airbnb options or budget hotels a bit farther from the center, just make sure they’re close to a Tube station so you don’t waste time or money getting around.
For food, there’s something for every budget, like street food or snacks from supermarket, or go for fast food if you’re on the go. Of course, fancy restaurants will cost more. I’d recommend sticking to public transport instead of ride-sharing apps, it’s cheaper and very efficient. London can be pricey, yes, but it doesn’t have to be if you’re smart about it.
When is the best time to visit London
Definitely spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit London. Temperatures are mild, the parks are full of color, and walking around the city feels easy and pleasant. Summer can also be a good option if you’re lucky with the weather; it rarely gets too hot, but you should expect some wind. When I visited, evenings were actually pretty chilly, and the wind was kind of a constant guest.
Winter has its own magic, especially around Christmas, when London turns into one of the most beautifully decorated cities in Europe. The lights, the shop windows, and the festive vibe make it feel like a real-life movie.
No matter the season, things to do in London are endless. Every month brings festivals, exhibitions, and open-air events, so you’ll never run out of plans.
Is London safe for tourists
How safe is London depends on how careful you are. It’s a huge city, and there are areas and situations you should avoid. I noticed quite a few homeless people, and while most keep to themselves, not everyone feels friendly.
Locals even warned us to watch our pockets, especially on public transport or in crowded spots, because pickpocketing happens. My advice? Don’t draw too much attention, avoid overly drunk areas at night, and stay aware of your surroundings.
What to pack for London
If you’re visiting in summer, packing is pretty easy, just keep it light and comfy. Still, bring a jacket for those unexpectedly chilly evenings (trust me, London weather loves surprises). In spring or autumn, layers are your best friend. A small umbrella or raincoat is a must, because rain can show up out of nowhere.
For winter, pack warm clothes and good shoes. From what I’ve heard it gets quite cold, especially with the wind. So, better to overpack a bit than to freeze while pretending you’re fine in your cute outfit.
Do you need cash in London?
In most places, you won’t need cash at all, London is super digital. You can pay almost everywhere with a card, even on buses or for a quick coffee. Still, it’s smart to keep a little cash in pounds sterling (not euros!) for markets and smaller stalls, like Portobello Market in Notting Hill.
Some vendors still prefer coins and notes, and it saves you from awkward “sorry, card only” moments. The city is super digital, so you’ll barely use physical money during your 2 days in London
Useful apps for visiting London
A few apps can make exploring London a lot smoother. For transport, London Bus, Tube Map, and CityMapper are must-haves, they show real-time routes, delays, and even which station exit to take. If you prefer biking, Santander Cycles lets you rent bikes all over the city with just a few taps.
For daily life stuff, Toilets for London is super practical, Time Out London helps you find the best events or places to eat, and Uber Boat gives you a cool ride on the Thames. Honestly, with these apps, getting lost in London becomes almost impossible (unless you actually want to).
What sockets are used in London?
In London, you’ll need Type G sockets, the ones with three rectangular pins. Most European plugs don’t fit, so make sure to bring an adapter. I actually recommend carrying a universal adapter wherever you travel, it saves you every single time. London runs on 230V, same as most of Europe, so you don’t need a voltage converter, just the plug.
Internet and SIM card tips
You’ll find Wi-Fi almost everywhere in London – cafés, hotels, even some buses. But if you don’t want to keep searching for a signal, I really recommend Airalo. It’s an eSIM app that gives you data right away, no shop visits, no plastic SIMs, no stress.
I’ve used it on multiple trips and it always worked perfectly. Plus, you can get $3 off your first plan with my code RALUCA2435
British etiquette and local culture
Londoners are polite but always in a hurry, a mix that’s funny once you get used to it. They might not start random conversations, but if you need help, just ask. People are usually super kind and will actually stop to explain or guide you.
One golden rule though: if you’re on an escalator, stand on the right side. The left lane is for people rushing to catch their train, and blocking it will earn you a few deadly stares.
