London, being one of the topmost tourist destinations in the world, always attracts visitors regardless of any season. Though the best time to visit this city is late spring (and summer), from May to August, London is always crowded with tourists year-round. But why? It’s a major global city that boasts a rich history (dating back to 43 AD), vibrant culture and iconic landmarks, ranging from historic walls to the modern marvel. Given its diverse range of attractions, the question arises: what to see, what to do during your stay in London and what's the convenient way to visit the attractions? To help you with that, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 places in the city you can visit in just three days with the help of London hop-on hop-off bus tours. So, without further ado, here’s your London 3 day itinerary!
Day 1: Historic London & Royal Sites
Morning: Buckingham Palace, Big Ben & Houses of Parliament
8:30 AM - 11:00 AM: Buckingham Palace
If you want to plan a perfect London 3 day itinerary, Buckingham Palace should be on your list for the first day. This should be the first place to go in the morning, as one of the things to do in London is to witness the Changing the Guard ceremony that takes place outside the palace on certain days. Apart from this event, you can have a tour of the magnificent rooms of the palace, decorated by the Royal Collection, including paintings by renowned artists. One of the few working royal palaces, Buckingham Palace also houses two more parts, such as the Royal Mews and the King’s Gallery, which can be visited separately.
Travel Tips:
- Complement your London City tour with an entry pass to this place and skip any line.
- The Changing Guard free event starts at 10:45 AM, and the actual handover takes place at 11:00 AM.
- Arrive early and secure your spot with a good view.
- Check the official website for other information.
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11:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Big Ben & Houses of Parliament
Commonly known as Big Ben, it is an iconic clock tower, and no London travel itinerary can be concluded without visiting this landmark. Standing at the north end of the Palace of Westminster, which is commonly known as the Houses of Parliament. This British cultural icon showcases Gothic detailing all over, and you can see its inner workings through guided tours.
Another prominent landmark, the Houses of Parliament is famous for its stunning architecture and historical significance. Constructed in the 11th century as a royal palace, it was the primary residence for the kings of England until 1512. Visit this place to witness British democracy in action. If you take guided tours, you can even observe debates in both the House of Commons and the House of Lords.
Travel Tips:
- For interior tours in the Houses of Parliament you have to book a ticket in advance.
Afternoon: Westminster Abbey & St. James's Park
12:30 PM - 2:30 PM: Lunch at St. James's Park
St. James’s Park is around seven minutes walking distance from the Houses of Parliament in London. It’s the oldest royal park where you can feel nature and history together. It’s also the home of ceremonial events like royal weddings, state celebrations, military parades and more. The best way to spend time here is to have a picnic amidst the greenery. Moreover, you can also visit a cafe and watch the panoramic views of the lake and fountain from its window. Watching wildlife like pelicans and other birds is a bonus experience while visiting the park.
Travel Tips:
- Check the park’s official website for information on opening hours, seasonal events and special attractions.
2:30 PM - 4:30 PM: Westminster Abbey
Your 3 days in London itinerary must include this important Gothic masterpiece. Formally called the Collegiate Church of Saint Peter, founded around 960 AD, this place has been the place of coronations for the most significant people in Britain’s history. A UNESCO World Heritage Site with thousands of years of history, Westminster Abbey is one of the top attractions in London to be discovered.
Travel Tips:
- The opening hours: Monday - Friday: 9.30am - 3.30pm (last entry), Saturday: 9.00am - 3.00pm (last entry), Sunday: Closed for general sightseeing
- Purchase tickets online in advance and visit it early in the morning to beat the crowds.
Evening: London Eye & South Bank
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM: London Eye
Have you ever seen any London itinerary without mentioning the London Eye? That’s the speciality of this attraction. Along the Thames River, this iconic observation wheel will let you experience the unobstructed views of the city. Moreover, on a clear day, you can even see Windsor Castle, 40 kilometres away. The 360-degree views from 135 metres height are something you’ll remember for years. The world’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel, which was built to celebrate the millennium in 2000, the London Eye has 32 glass pods and completes a round in around 30 minutes.
Travel Tips:
- Book a sunset time slot for magical views as the city lights begin to sparkle.
- Purchase skip-the-line tickets to avoid waiting time.
7:30 PM onwards: South Bank Dinner & Evening Stroll
After watching a magical sunset from one of the pods on the London Eye, have a stroll along the Thames River and soak in the night views of the city. Head towards any restaurant along the river and enjoy a nice dinner. Choose your menu from a range of classic British dishes like a Sunday roast or fish and chips. You can also choose fusion dishes and others; no worries, London is a food lover’s paradise. After your dinner, end your first day with a British dessert like sticky toffee pudding or Eton mess.
Travel Tips:
- If you find the weather nice, then book a terrace table for the river views.
- The riverside restaurants are very popular. Book your seat way in advance.
Day 2: Culture and Museums
Morning: British Museum
9:30 AM - 12:30 PM: The British Museum
It’s day two, and you should explore the cultural side of London this day! Start with the British Museum in the morning, as it will take time to be discovered. One of the world’s greatest museums, it houses around eight million objects dedicated to human history, art and culture. You must experience the exhibits, like the Rosetta Stone, Parthenon sculptures, Egyptian mummies, and the Lewis Chessmen, and gain insights into various civilisations and cultures closely. However, you’ll also be mesmerised by the museum’s architectural beauty and historical significance.
Travel Tips:
- Join free guided tours to gain deeper insights into the major collections.
Afternoon: Lunch at Covent Garden & National Gallery
12:30 PM - 2:00 PM: Lunch at Covent Garden
A 14-minute walk through Museum Street of London will take you to your lunch stop for the day—the Covent Garden. It sounds like a garden but seems to be an experience in itself. A vibrant district, located in the heart of London’s West End, Covent Garden offers a mix of historic charm, live entertainment and world-class dining. You’ll see here the street performers showcasing their talent in the piazza, the beauty of the market building’s architectural details and a crowd that truly sets the iconic London setting. Whenever you feel hungry, you can grab an alfresco meal or go for a gourmet meal or some quick bites from artisanal food vendors—Covent Garden meets every taste and budget.
Travel Tips:
- Try some local food like steak, ale pie and a traditional cream tea afterwards.
- Search for restaurants that offer fixed lunch menus on weekdays to keep within a budget.
- Explore Apple Market and Jubilee Market, where you’ll find antiques, handmade arts and local art.
2:30 PM - 5:00 PM: National Gallery
Located in the centre of Trafalgar Square, just a 9-minute walking distance from Covent Garden, the National Gallery houses some of the world’s renowned art. If you’re interested in discovering Western European art, you must include this place in your 3 days in London itinerary. The gallery houses more than 2,300 masterpieces from the 13th to 19th century. You should find some iconic works inside, such as Van Gogh’s "Sunflowers", Turner’s "The Fighting Temeraire", and Leonardo da Vinci’s "The Virgin of the Rocks", and take part in the guided tours to know about these artworks in detail.
Travel Tips:
- Admission is free, but some exhibitions may require paid tickets. Check the official website for further information.
- Get a gallery map when you enter into the building to find out the major highlights. You can also use their app.
Evening: West End Show
7:00 PM - 10:00 PM: West End Theatre Experience
To extend your cultural exploration in London, we suggest you spend an evening in the world-famous theatre district, the West End. Witness the magic of London’s culture at historic venues, electrifying performances and dazzling productions here. Find out about shows like “The Phantom of the Opera”, “Les Misérables”, “Hamilton”, “Mamma Mia!” or “The Lion King” and end your second day of your London trip in an exceptional way. Moreover, explore the architecture of some theatres, like the Lyceum, Apollo Victoria, or Her Majesty’s Theatre, and step into the history of London through its culture.
Travel Tips:
- Book tickets in advance and arrive early to get the best seats.
- If you’re sitting on a balcony or upper circle, then bring or rent a pair of opera glasses to watch the show properly.
Day 3: Tower of London & Modern London
Morning: Tower of London & Tower Bridge
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Tower of London
Start your third day morning with this iconic landmark, the Tower of London, located on the north bank of the River Thames. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a glimpse into around 1,000 years of British history, and you’ll love to hear about it. It has served as a royal palace, armoury, prison and even a zoo. The two most important things to do in London are to explore the mediaeval White Tower and see the legendary Crown Jewels in the Tower of London.
Travel Tips:
- Arrive early, if possible at the time of opening hours, 9:00 AM, to enjoy a quieter atmosphere.
- Book your ticket in advance to skip the line.
- Don’t miss the Yeoman Warders’ Tour if you’re interested to know about the place in depth.
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Tower Bridge
Now, head towards the Tower Bridge, another prominent landmark to cover on your trip to London in 3 days. Some people mistake it for “London Bridge”, but this bridge is not just made for crossing the river—it’s something you must experience. Enter inside the Tower Bridge Exhibition and walk across the glass-floor walkway. Watch the boat pass beneath you and click some spectacular pictures of those moments. If you plan it accordingly, you can also witness the historic ‘lift in action’ which occurs several times a week. The Victorian engineering of this neo-Gothic marvel is to be remembered for life.
Travel Tips:
- Get a combo ticket for this attraction with your London City Hop-on Hop-off bus tour and save both your time and money.
Afternoon: St. Paul's Cathedral & Tate Modern
1:30 PM - 3:00 PM: Lunch & St. Paul's Cathedral
After your riverside exploration, grab lunch at a nearby cafe or restaurant before visiting St. Paul’s Cathedral. You can try Gordon Ramsay Street Pizza or The Happenstance for good food with a good view.
Once you enter the cathedral (ticketed entry), you’ll be stunned by its massive dome, intricate mosaics and its other detailing. You have to explore the Whisper Gallery, where a whisper carries across the dome, and the Golden Gallery, where you have to climb up for a breathtaking view of London’s skyline. Overall, this place isn’t just an architectural marvel; it’s a place where historic events like the funeral of Sir Winston Churchill, royal jubilees and wedding ceremonies took place. Continue your afternoon with its cultural significance and serene reflection.
Travel Tips:
- The best way to get here is to take a London Bar Bus tour and hop off at this landmark.
3:30 PM - 5:30 PM: Tate Modern
Your next stop on your London travel itinerary is Tate Modern, the UK’s leading contemporary art gallery. To reach here, you have to walk across the Millennium Bridge, a modern pedestrian bridge.
Speaking of Tate Modern, it’s situated in a former power station, and admission here is free. Even if you’re not a modern art enthusiast, we suggest you visit this place to experience its sheer scale and utmost creativity. Explore works by world-famous artists like Picasso, Warhol, Rothko, Hockney, and Yayoi Kusama. Visit the vast Turbine Hall that hosts immersive installations that keep changing throughout the year. Climb to the viewing level of the Blavatnik Building to get another panoramic view of the city.
Travel Tips:
- Join a free guided tour to learn about the gallery and the works.
- Book tickets in advance to attend special exhibitions.
Evening: Notting Hill or Hyde Park
6:00 PM onwards: Notting Hill & Dinner
To end your London trip for three days, we suggest you have a relaxed walk through the charming and colourful neighbourhood of Notting Hill. It offers an eclectic vibe with its pastel-painted houses and its iconic Portobello Road Market. The area also houses some of the best restaurants where you can have your dinner for the night.
Some of our recommended restaurants are:
- The Ledbury (Michelin-starred, refined cuisine)
- Farm Girl Café (healthy, Instagrammable dishes)
- Gold Notting Hill (modern European with rustic charm)
- The Churchill Arms (a historic pub with floral décor and great Thai food)
Alternative Option: Evening Stroll in Hyde Park
If you want to conclude your London 3 day itinerary with a nature spot, then head to wind down in Hyde Park. Enjoy a short walk by the Serpentine, watch the sunset over Kensington Garden, and find a relaxed spot for a picnic dinner if the weather permits.
Travel Tips:
- For an alternative option against these two above-mentioned suggestions, you can also choose a fascinating London Night Tour for an immersive experience.
Final Thoughts
These are our suggested attractions in London for the London 3 day itinerary. However, it’s up to you to add or eliminate any places, as it totally depends on your choices. However, remember, to know the city and its history, culture, and other aspects in depth, London in 3 days is a very small time. To get a different perspective of the city, we suggest you have a hop-on hop-off bus tour and make your own itinerary without following any rigid schedule.
