London, the capital of the UK, has attracted tourists from all over the world. The city is known as a metropolitan city with a mixed culture of something old and new. In London, must-visit spots are everywhere in a large city. You can reach all of them by well equipped public transportation such as Underground (Tube) or bus. It might be key to well consider the route and plan for a trip without regret.
For traveling in London, it is necessary at least three days. Or if you want to visit many museums or royal palaces, you will need one week. To fully enjoy London, we will provide below an ideal three-day itinerary for London.
The National Gallery is located in Trafalgar Square which is in the heart of London. It houses the UK’s national collection of 2,000 paintings. The National Gallery is specialized in European paintings. There are masterpieces that are the most comprehensive for art history. Leonardo Da Vinci's The Virgin of the Rock, Vermeer's A Young Woman Standing at a Virginal, Monet’s Waterlily, and Van Gogh's Sunflowers are also not to be missed! You can also bring back the artistic spirit by getting a small gift from souvenir shops.
The National Gallery is not as big as the British Museum. 2 hours might be enough to see around. To avoid the long waiting time, we recommend visiting there at 10:00 or after 16:00.
Address: Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN
Transportation: Underground Southeastern line Charing Cross station /Northern line or Picadilly line Leicester Square station
Opening hours: Mon-Sun 10:00-18:00 / Friday until 21:00 / Closed on 1st January, 24th-26th December
Admission fee: Free (Some exhibitions are charged)
Trafalgar Square is one of the most vibrant places in London. It is surrounded by museums, galleries, historical buildings, and so on. In 1812, architect John Nash began to develop this place to transform it into a cultural site open to the public. In 1830, it was named "Trafalgar Square" to commemorate the battle of Trafalgar. Currently, Trafalgar Square is a place to chill by having a sit around the fountains for local people and tourists. Nelson's Column and bronze lions statues are iconic.
While walking from Trafalgar Square to the Whitehall (Avenue), you can find a splendid view of traditional architecture with Big Ben. Do not forget to take a picture there!
Transportation: Underground Bakerloo line or Northern line, Charing Cross station
Bustronome London is perfect for the first day of a trip to London. Bustronome is a classy and luxurious restaurant on wheels and serves lunch and dinner service. You can have a look at famous tourist spots from the bus without worries about the weather. More detail about Bustronome London from here.
This splendid experience should make your heart flutter to start a trip in a marvelous city that you saw from the bus. You can board Bustronome only with a reservation. With O’bon Paris’ promo code, you can get a 10% discount when you make a reservation on the BUSTRONOME website.
Address: Coach Bay 40B Victoria Embankment, London, WC2N 6PB
Transportation: Underground Bakerloo line, Circle line, District line, or Northern line, Embankment station
Opening hours: Lunch - daily 12:15 (1hour 45 minutes) / Dinner - daily 19:15, 19:30 (2h 45minutes) / Need to arrive 15 minutes prior to the tour's departure / Opening hours may vary
The Tower of London, located right next to the Thames river is one of the most popular tourist spots in London. It was built in the 11th century and recognized as a world heritage site by UNESCO in 1988. The tower is not a simple citadel, but a place full of history of the UK’s monarchy of 1000 years. The tower was used as a palace of the Royal family and also a prison. Because of history, there are some horror stories about crows and about ghosts. Also, many displays of royal pieces such as crowns or armors are interesting. The Tower of London is quite big and there are some narrow pathways, so it is better to visit in comfortable sneakers.
Address: The Tower of London, London, EC3N 4AB
Transportation: Underground Circle line or District line, Tower Hill station
Opening hours: Wed-Sun 10:00-18:00. Last admission: 16:30 (16:00 timeslot), buildings within the Tower close at 17:30 / Half term hours (From 24 October to Sunday 1 November) 9:00-17:00. Last admission: 15:30 (15:00 timeslot), buildings within the Tower close at 16:30.
Admission fee: Same day ticket Adult - £25.00 / Children (aged 5-15) - £12.50 / Age over 65 or Student - £20.00
On the Thames river, there are a lot of bridges. Among them, the most gorgeous one is Tower Bridge with two towers in the center, two arches, and blue lines. Because of its beautiful architecture like a Medieval castle, it is often confused with London Bridge. This bridge is a drawbridge that was built between 1886 and 1894 and opens the center when a big ship passes through. You can check the next bridge lift time on Tower Bridge’s official website. The aisles between two towers are opened to the public as an exhibition. From there you can enjoy the Thames view from 42m high. It is one of the main attractions in London.
You can book tickets in advance. When you book it online, you can get a discount on the standard price.
Address: Tower Bridge Rd, London SE1 2UP
Transportation: Underground Circle line or District line, Tower Hill station
Opening hours: April-September 10:00-17:30 / October-March 9:30-17:00 / Closed on 24th, 25th, 26th December / Opened from 10:00 on 1st January
Admission fee: Same day ticket Adult - £10.60 / Child (aged 5-15) £5.30 / Student - £7.90 / Free for under 5 years old / Other discounts for family or group are available
Why not have dinner with a view of the Thames River and Tower Bridge in a romantic atmosphere? Coppa Club Tower Bridge is a stylish restaurant located right next to the Tower of London. You can enjoy European food from small tapas to grilled mains, sourdough pizzas, and healthy salad. The bar serves carefully-chosen wines, beers, and cocktails. If you visit there during winter, you can have dinner in the delightful dome. To get a dome seat, it is necessary to book online in advance. If you want to have a special time in London, Coppa Club Tower Bridge is perfect for you.
Address: 3 Three Quays Walk, Lower Thames St, Tower, London EC3R 6AH
Transportation: Underground Circle line or District line, Tower Hill station
Opening hours: Mon-Thur 7:30-23:00 / Fri 7:30-24:00 / Sat 9:00-24:00 / Sun 9:00-22:30
Reservation: Click here
One of the landmarks of London, the Shard is the tallest building in London. From this tower made with glass, you can see the magnificent 360° panorama view. The twilight time is especially breathtaking. The Observatory is on the 69th floor (inside) and the 72nd floor (outside). On the Westside, you can see the Tower Bridge crossing the Thames river and the Canary Wharf with high buildings. In the East, you can find London’s typical view with the London Eye and Big Ben.
On weekends, the observatory will be crowded, and tickets will be quickly sold out. It is better to book your ticket in advance. In London it is often cloudy, so we recommend visiting there for a night view with numerous warm lights.
Address: 32 London Bridge St, London, SE1 9SG
Transportation: Underground Jubilee line or Northern line, London Bridge station
Opening hours: Mon-Sun 10:00-22:00 (Last admission 21:00)*
Admission fee: Same day ticket - £27.20 / Pre-ticket - £19.95*
*Opening times and the ticket price may vary by season.
Fortnum and Mason are a traditional luxury department store that is the purveyor to the Royal Household. They have 4 branches in the UK, and one of these is in the Picadilly area. It is a perfect place to find high-quality souvenirs such as English tea, fresh food, tableware, and so on. The elegant interior decoration and staffs in formal wear make a noble atmosphere. In Fortnum and Mason, there are five restaurants and tea rooms where you can try the brand's tea before choosing a souvenir. One of them, The Parlour, is a casual one, and there were local women who enjoyed tea time by themselves. In another restaurant, The Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon, you can try an authentic afternoon tea menu with a reservation.
Address: 181 Piccadilly, St. James's, London W1A 1ER
Transportation: Underground Piccadilly line or Bakerloo line, Piccadilly Circus station
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 10:00-20:00 / Sun 12:00-18:00
The British Museum is one of the biggest museums in the world. You can discover 2 million years of human history and culture through its precious collection such as Egyptian mummies, a Moai statue from Easter Island, or the famous Rosetta stone, and so on. You cannot miss the souvenir store. Cute and stylish stationaries are nice as a souvenir.
Just a 1-minute walk from the British Museum, there is a London Review Bookshop. Its tote bag is recommendable as a gift.
Address: The British Museum, Great Russell St, Bloomsbury, London WC1B 3DG
Transportation: Underground Northern line or Central line, Tottenham Court Road
Opening hours: Mon-Sun 10:00–17:00 (last entry at 15.30) / Closed 24–26 December
Admission fee: Free (Some exhibitions are charged)
Borough Market is one of the most popular food markets loved by local people. It is near London Bridge. There are a bunch of stands that sell delicious food not only from the UK but also from all of Europe. These days you can easily find organic meals in this market. It is great to grab some light meals like raclette, hotdog, or get souvenirs such as cheese, truffle oil. The price is cheap, and it is a rare gourmet spot in London.
Do not forget to bring cash, and watch out for pickpocket!
Address: 8 Southwark St, London SE1 1TL, London
Transportation: Underground Northern line or Jubilee line, London Bridge station
Opening hours: Mon-Thur 10:00-17:00 / Fri 10:00-18:00 / Sat 8:00-17:00 / Closed on Sunday
The huge white building with a dome is one of the landmarks of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral. It is one of the Church of England and an important building as a historical site. The former building was destroyed because of the Great Fire of London in 1666. The current architecture was formally completed in 1711 by Christopher Wren, an architect. In London, most churches are built with brick. Yet, St. Paul’s Cathedral is in the Italian Renaissance style which makes a gorgeous atmosphere. The highlight is the magnificent dome ceiling painting. There is a gallery at the dome. You can climb up to the dome from the right side of the altar. A guided tour would be nice to know better about the cathedral’s history.
It is recommendable to pre-book your sightseeing admission tickets for the best prices and easiest experience.
Address: St. Paul’s Churchyard, London EC4M 8AD
Transportation: Underground Central line, St. Paul's station
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 8:30-16:30 (Last admission 16:00) / Closed on Sunday
Admission fee: Same day ticket Adults - £20 / Students - £17.50 / Children (aged 6-17) - £8.50 / Family tickets are available
One of London’s landmarks, the Tate Modern is the UK’s top tourist attraction. The Tate Modern is a gallery that specializes in international modern and contemporary art from post-impressionism to installation art. On the 10th floor of Switch House (North building), there is an observation space. Do not miss the stunning night view of London from there. The souvenir shop is also known for stylish gifts such as T-shirts, bags, postcards, magazines, and so on.
Address: Tate Modern, Bankside, London SE1 9TG
Transportation: Underground Circle line or District line Blackfriars station
Opening hours: Sun-Thur 10:00-18:00 / Fri-Sat until 22:00
Admission fee: Free (Some exhibitions are charged)
Maison Bertaux is one of the oldest tea salons In London and loved by local people. There you can enjoy artisan pastries freshly made. The charming blue sign and colorful pastries welcome you. Once you step into the store, you will be amazed by the warm delightful decoration. After ordering your drink and pastry or bread, you will wait at your table. Tea comes in a pot with a carafe of hot water to refill. You can feel free to enjoy plenty of tea as long as you want. The big scone’s outside is crispy, and the freshly baked smell appetites you. The clotted cream and jam melting with a warm scone is just irresistible.
Address: 28 Greek St, Soho, London W1D 5DQ
Transportation: Underground Northern line or Picadilly line, Leicester square station
Opening hours: Mon-Tue 08:30 - 20:30 / Wed-Sat 08:30 - 22:00 / Sun 09:00 - 20:00
Covent Garden is a place full of beautiful things located in the center of London. In this area, there is the Apple Market where you can get antique jewelry, handmade accessories, and artworks that are all unique and you will never find anywhere else. The Apple Market is opened every day, so it’s easy to come here and buy some original souvenirs. Furthermore, shops around the market are also chic and nice. At Petersham Nurseries Shop and Florist, you can find sophisticated interior goods, candles, vases, etc. Also, the restaurant in the shop offers you a great time surrounded by a romantic decoration. It is a must-visit place to get pretty souvenirs for your friend or family.
Apple Market :
Address: The Apple Market, Convent Garden, London WC2E 8RD
Transportation: Underground Piccadilly line, Covent Garden station
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 10:00-18:00 / Sun 12:00-18:00
Petersham Nurseries Shop and Florist :
Address: 31 King St. Covent Garden, London WC2E 8JD
Transportation: Underground Piccadilly line, Covent Garden station
Opening hours: Wed-Sat 11:30-18:30 / Sun 12:00-18:00 / Closed on Monday and Tuesday
English Pubs are one of the UK's cultures. It is a must-try during the trip. In London, local people casually have a meal or drink in pubs. The Garrick Arms, 2 minutes walk from Leicester Square station, in a pub loved by local people for a cozy space. Their reasonable meals such as fish and chips, hamburgers, or desserts are all good. In this pub, there are an Afternoon tea set menu and a Kids menu too, so it suits any occasion such as tea break or lunch with children. It’s good to remember!
Address: 8-10 Charing Cross Rd. London WC2H0HG
Transportation: Underground Picadilly or Northern line, Leicester Square station
Opening hours: Mon-Thur, Sun 11:00-23:00 / Sat, Fri 11:00-24:00
A cup of fluffy flat white and a croissant is a perfect start for a brand new day. Kioskafe is a cozy café, and another part is a kiosk where they sell magazines and books. It is located near Underground Paddington station and you can go to Hyde Park on foot from there. It might make you feel as if you are one of the local citizens in London that you can have breakfast time while watching sophisticated London people passing on the street.
Address: 31 Norfolk Pl, London W2 1QH
Transportation: Underground Bakerloo line, Circle line, District line, Hammersmith&City line, Paddington station
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 7:00-19:00 / Sat-Sun 8:00-17:00
A 10-minute walk from Kioskafe, you will arrive at Hyde Park. It is the biggest oasis in the heart of London. In summer, the parc holds some events such as a summer music festival or mini-marathon. During winter, the Christmas market will be opened there. So Hyde Park is loved by local people. You can find a vast glass place, people jogging or reading a book, and swans on the lake. It is a perfect place to have a little walk in the morning like London people.
Opening hours: 05:00-24:00
Notting Hill is an area that became famous because of the romantic film “Notting Hill'' starring Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant. You can find the blue bookshop that appeared in the movie Notting Hill. It’s good to take a picture or get some postcards and books from the store. But, Notting Hill has another attractive place. It is the Portobello Road Market which sells antique products. From the Notting Hill Gate station, you can find a lot of vintage shops and select shops open every day. However, we recommend visiting there on Saturday, because many other antique merchants gather and display their beautiful products outside along the Portobello road (about 2 km long) only on Saturday. Enjoy shopping British traditional tableware such as Wedgwood, Royal Doulton, or Spode for a lower price than usual. To avoid trouble, please check well if the plates are not broken before buying them.
The Notting Hill Bookshop
Address: 13 Blenheim Cres, Notting Hill, London W11 2EE
Transportation: Underground Circle line or Hammers & City line, Ladbroke Grove station
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 11:00-18:00 / Sat, Sun 10:00-18:00
Portobello Road Market
Address: Portobello Rd, Notting Hill, London W11 2QB
Transportation: Underground Circle line, District line, or Central line, Notting Hill Gate station
Opening hours: Mon-Wed 9:00-18:00 / Thur 9:00-13:00 / Fri, Sat 9:00-19:00 / Closed on Sunday (Opening hours vary by seasons or weather).
When you think about British food, one of the first things that pop up in your mind might be fish and chips. Poppies Fish and Chips have three branches in London, and one of them is in Camden Town. The unique decoration transports you back to 1940’s lively London. Freshly fried fish of the finest quality and chips are not greasy but light. The crunchy texture of fries is so pleasant that you cannot stop your hand until the last chip. It goes perfectly with beer.
Adresse: 30 Hawley Cres, London NW1 8NP, UK
Transportation: Underground Northern line, Camden Town station
Opening hours: Everyday 11:00-22.00
If you want an original cloth or a designer’s craft, Camden Town is perfect for you. Camden Town is an area where there are different markets such as Stables Market, Camden Lock Village Market, Buck Street Market, and so on. There are a lot of small stands of unique accessories, vintage cloth, leather goods, paper-cut postcards. Some stands are managed directly by creators, so you can enjoy a chat with them.
Address: Camden Market, Camden Lock Place, London, NW1 8AF
Transportation: Underground Northern line, Camden Town station
Opening hours: Mon-Sun 10:00-18:00 (Closing hours may vary for each shop)
The legendary movie, Harry Potter is one of the UK’s emblematic things. You might remember the scene when Harry and his friends take a train for Hogwarts from 9 3/4 platform in the first film. In the concourse of King’s Cross station, there is a photo shooting spot on the brick wall with a trolley embedded in it. Usually, you have to queue to take a photo, but taking a photo with the trolley and a scarf is for free. Let’s choose a scarf in your favorite house color! You can also find the Harry Potter souvenir shop right next to the wall. From the first step to the shop, you will suddenly dive into a magical world with special decorations and exactly the same goods that you watched in the movies such as wands, time turners, as well as Hogwarts school jumpers in house colors.
Address: KingsCross station, London N1 9AP
Transportation: National Rail or Underground Cercle line, Metropolitan line, Picadilly line, Northern line, Victoria line, or Hammersmith & City line, Kings Cross station
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 8:00-22:00 / Sun 9:00-21:00
Flat Iron is a famous budget steak restaurant in London, and they have some branches in London. One is cloth to Saint Pancras station, so it is perfect to have a proper meal before leaving by Eurostar from St Pancras station. Usually, steak is 20£ in London, yet Flat Iron's basic steak is 11£. Plus you can add side dishes and sauce. The meat is perfectly cooked, tender, and delicious. The interior is nicely decorated in vintage style, and the meal and drinks are all finest quality. It is definitely a must-visit restaurant.
Flat Iron doesn’t accept reservations. In some branches, you have to wait in a queue during peak time. However, the one close to the station is not as crowded as the others.
Address: 47-51 Caledonian Rd, Islington, London
Transportation: National Rail or Underground Cercle line, Metropolitan line, Picadilly line, Northern line, Victoria line, Hammersmith&City line, Kings Cross station
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 12:00-23:00 / Sun 12:00-22:30
For some places like the royal palace, they open for the public visit for a very short term. For example, Buckingham Place is open for public visits for only ten weeks from the end of July to the end of September. If you want to visit there, be careful to choose the date of your trip.
If you often use Underground, it is recommendable to use an Oyster card. When you spend 7£ per day, you won’t be charged anymore on the same day. When you buy the card, you have to pay 5£ as a deposit, but you can get a full refund. Do not forget to pass a quick refund process via the ticket machine. Be careful, the refund will be available after 48 hours after purchase.
In several sites or monuments in London, it is prohibited to enter with large luggage. It’s better to put your suitcases in your hotel before discovering the town.
Author - Yuka
Photographs - Fan & Yuka
Drawings by Fangfang