3-Day London Itinerary: How To Spend 3 Days in London

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London, one of the most magnificent destinations in the world, keeps calling. We have visited London dozens of times – with stays ranging from a single day to more than a month. We are in awe at how London manages to be simultaneously historic and modern, posh and edgy, quintessentially British and iconically international.

Yet, when questioned recently how we would devise a perfect 3-Day London Itinerary, we were momentarily perplexed. In our opinion, 3 days in London is not long enough for a first-time visit. The sprawling city is packed with world-famous sights, marvelous museums, grand palaces and picturesque parks. The landscape is also laden with cool neighborhoods, quirky attractions and age-old pubs.

Visiting London in 3 days only allows travelers enough time to scratch the surface. Fortunately, even the surface of London is sensational! We managed to create a London 3-Day Itinerary that includes must-see attractions and exciting adventures. In our typical budget-conscious travel style, our Three-Day London Trip Plan features plenty of free sights and cost-saving tips.

3 Days in London on a Budget

For this 3-Day Itinerary in London, we showcase the best of the city at a budget price. Our plan for what to see in London in 3 days highlights inexpensive activities and low-cost experiences. We encourage travelers to explore via self-guided walking tours and to take advantage of the many free London sights.

That said, top ticketed London attractions don’t necessarily need to be skipped. Money-saving combo tickets – like the London Pass – are golden for those who want to enter multiple sights. We share more honest cost-saving advice in our Travel Tips for London.

While we designed our perfect London Itinerary with budget travelers in mind, anyone going to London for 3 days can use our guide. Although we feature free attractions (and who doesn’t like free?), our plan details all the top spots. So, whether you are traveling to England on a bare bones budget or want to splash out, you can use our 3 Days in London Travel Itinerary to plan your trip.

Top Tip: Not sure where to begin? Get started with our Free Vacation Budget Planner!

About our London 3 Day Itinerary

Our goal is to help make planning your trip as simple as possible! Our 3 Days Itinerary in London features an optimized day-by-day format that is easy to follow. Sightseeing is organized by district, and we offer helpful tips and alternate ideas throughout.

Additionally, we share top recommendations for where to eat without overspending. For more suggestions, read our guide to Famous London Food.

It is possible to complete each day as outlined, because we’ve literally done it! However, timing will vary based on your walking pace, how long each sight holds your interest and if you decide to enter attractions. Be aware of opening hours and daily events (like Changing of the Guard) and adjust according to your schedule and preference.

At the end of this article, we provide a complete Sightseeing Map of London. As mentioned, we do include ticketed sights in our 3 Days London Itinerary. If there is a charge, we indicate that.

Organizing your London Travel Plan

In addition to our day-by-day outlined 3 Day London Trip Itinerary, we discuss how to get there and where to stay. When you start booking your travels, staying on top of the details is essential. We recommend using our Travel Planning Printables to keep your vacation to London organized!

3-Day Itinerary for London on a Budget

We have packed our 3 Days in London Itinerary to the brim – including top budget tips. So, lace up your best travel shoes and let’s get started!

DAY ONE: WESTMINSTER & WEST END

Kick off your 3-Day Itinerary of London in the best-known borough, Westminster. Spend the day enjoying the most iconic sights, like Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben and Trafalgar Square. In the evening, wander into the West End. Dine in Chinatown before easing into SOHO after dark.

Morning: Breakfast and Westminster Sightseeing

For an entire day of sightseeing, you will need some fuel – and in London, that means a Full English Breakfast. The meal consists of eggs, sausage, bacon, baked beans, fried potatoes, grilled tomatoes and toast. While there are endless restaurants that serve up the classic breakfast, budget-friendly Regency Café is a London favorite.

Once satiated, spend the rest of the morning touring Westminster on foot. The district is a must-see on your Three-Day London Itinerary. Set your sights on Buckingham Palace, home to the British Royal Family since 1837. Wander through St. James’s Park in search of the resident pelicans. See world-famous places – like Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, UK Parliament and Trafalgar Square.

More attractions in the area include the Horse Guards Parade, 10 Downing Street, and the Thames Riverside Promenade.

We think Westminster is one of the best districts in London to explore because there is simply so much to see! Use our Free Self-Guided Walking Tour for detailed information and directions to the sights in Westminster. Alternatively, join a guided tour (like this one) for in-depth information and a local’s perspective.

Lunch: London Afternoon Tea

High Tea in London is tradition that many visitors will want to include in their 3 Day London Itinerary. Experiencing the afternoon meal of finger sandwiches, scones and cakes – along with tea, and often Champagne – is characteristically British.

London High Tea can be a luxurious experience – and, therefore, quite expensive. To keep your budget in check, skip the glamourous Afternoon Tea at The Ritz and instead dine in Westminster’s English Rose Café. The cozy tea shop offers an affordable Afternoon Tea menu and inexpensive a la carte options.

Afternoon: Visit a Westminster Attraction

While touring Westminster on foot is a fine way to get the lay of the land, we recommend visitors go inside at least one of the top spots. Of the free places to visit in Westminster, our favorites are the trio in Trafalgar Square: The National Gallery, The National Portrait Gallery and St. Martin in the Fields Church.

The National Gallery features masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci and Vincent Van Gogh. The National Portrait Gallery displays portraits of famous British figures, such as Sir Isaac Newton and Anne Boleyn. St. Martin in the Fields Church is a historic space where they provide free musical concerts (plus it has an inexpensive café in the crypt).

Other free sights in Westminster are the Tate Britain Museum, St. Margaret’s Church and Westminster Cathedral.

Another top pick for a ticketed attraction in the area is Westminster Abbey, which is one of the London UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Tickets should be purchased in advance – and entry is included with the London Pass. Note also that it is free to enter Westminster Abbey for a service.

Buckingham Palace is open to the public for a few months each year and tickets are purchased directly from the Royal Collection Trust. A very popular activity in the vicinity of Westminster is the London Eye Ferris Wheel. While it’s often touted as a must-do in London, we believe the admission price is too spendy for the experience.

Evening: West End

On the first evening of your Three-Day London Trip, spend time exploring the vibrant West End. Characterized by dazzling theaters, high-end stores and a riveting nightlife, the London West End is a top traveler destination.

Swing through Leicester Square, the epicenter of London’s famous Theater District. If you plan on catching a show, check for last-minute, discount tickets at the TKTS booth.

Next, work your way into colorful Chinatown. Decorated with atmospheric red lanterns and crowded with tempting eateries, it’s where we recommend having dinner. Bun House and Good Friend Chicken offer cheap eats, but the Dim Sum at mainstay Lido is fairly affordable, too.

If Asian fare is not your cup of tea, perhaps it’s time to feast on a London classic: Fish and Chips. We suggest Poppies Fish & Chips, located just north of Chinatown.

After dinner, explore the famous streets of Soho. Walk under the bright lights of Piccadilly Circus, go window shopping along Regent Street and stroll the length of Carnaby Street. If it’s in your budget, cap off the first day of your London Itinerary for 3 days with a cocktail at a Soho club.

While drinking in London is never cheap, several bars in Soho offer exceptional drink deals. O’Neill’s, Salsa and Thirst all have fantastic specials that are a bit easier on the wallet.

DAY 2: SOUTH BANK, MARKETS AND CITY OF LONDON

Start Day 2 on the South Bank of the River Thames. Marvel at the views and take in the scene along the route, then join the feeding frenzy at Borough Market.

In the afternoon, delve into the City of London to see some of London’s most recognizable landmarks. If time allows, go to the British Museum, then end the day in Covent Garden.

Morning: South Bank and Borough Market

Grab a quick bite to eat from a popular chain bakery for breakfast on Day 2. Gail’s offers low-priced breakfast options, but for a truly cheap start to the day, order a warm and savory pastry from Greggs. Then, set off to discover South Bank.

Stretching from Westminster Bridge to Blackfriars Bridge, South Bank is an entertainment destination – including high-priced attractions like the London Eye, Sea Life Aquarium and the National Theater.

However, what we love about South Bank is the Queen’s Walk. The pedestrian promenade offers grand views of the River Thames and City of London skyline. As you stroll east, make a stop at the Tate Modern. Entry into the contemporary art museum is free.

See Millennium Bridge, gaze at the massive St. Paul’s Cathedral and take a peek at the thatched roof at Shakespeare’s Globe (a replica of the original Globe Theatre that was built in 1599). Step inside the impressive Southwark Cathedral – it’s free to visit.

At lunchtime, make your way into Borough Market. The bustling bazaar dates to the 12th century and features some of the best food vendors in London.

Savory sandwiches, oysters on the half shell, pungent cheese and classic British fare – like Sausage Rolls and Scotch Eggs – are just a few of the items on offer. Better yet, there are loads of options that cost less than 10 GBP – making it a great place for a budget London lunch.

Afternoon: Tower of London and City of London

After your midday meal, cross the double-decker Tower Bridge – which ranks as the most beautiful of all the bridges that straddle the River Thames. It’s free to walk across the lower level, but a ticket or London Pass is required to ascend to the second story.

At the north end of the bridge stands the mighty Tower of London, which was built in the year 1078. Housing the sparkling royal Crown Jewels that are protected by the Beefeater guards, it is one of the top places to visit.

A ticket is required to enter, but is included with the London Pass. Filled with history and royal opulence, we found the Tower of London to be fascinating and easily spent 2 hours exploring the exhibitions. Budget travelers can get a good glimpse of the fortress exterior and, instead, seek out alternative free things to do in London.

The historic City of London is a city within the city – and a must-see on your Three-Day Itinerary of London. Evidence of settlements in the enclave stretches back more than 2000 years to when it was a Roman fort called Londinium. Today, dubbed The Square Mile, it is layered in sights, from ancient ruins to modern marvels.

Top free things to see in City of London are All Hallows by the Tower Church, the St. Dunstan in the East Church Gardens, Leadenhall Market (familiar as Diagon Alley for Harry Potter fans) and the Guildhall (with exposed Roman ruins).

However, our absolute favorite free thing to do in the district is to take in the view from a soaring skyscraper. While the famous Shard charges an exorbitant fee to go to the top, it is absolutely free to take in the elevated views from the Sky Garden (just be sure to reserve your timeslot far in advance).

Late Afternoon: London Pub or Free Museum

Depending on your pace (and whether or not you entered the Tower of London), there could be room for a couple more experiences, like visiting a pub or touring a free museum.

If all this sightseeing has left your thirsty, seek out one of the historic pubs in the City of London. The Blackfriar and Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese are two of our personal favorites. We share more options in our reviews of The Best Pubs on the Thames.

Just be aware that eating and drinking at the pubs in London can be pricey. To keep your budget in check – but still partake in the essential experience – order a half pint and savor the cozy atmosphere.

On the other hand, there are plenty of fun and free museums to see in City of London. The Bank of England Museum (with gold bars on display), the Museum of London (currently closed) and Sir John Soane’s Museum (a collection of curiosities) are our top picks.

If the renowned and free British Museum is a must-visit on your 3 day trip to London, you can make a beeline for it. It closes at 5pm, except on Fridays when it stays open until 8:30pm. The walk from City of London takes about 30 minutes, but buses or the Tube could possibly get you there faster.

Evening: Covent Garden

Once orchards and a produce market, the Covent Garden District still maintains its roots as a top London shopping destination, but it has also become an entertainment hub. Peruse the stores, watch the street performers and then sit down for a meal.

The main Market Building houses numerous interesting spaces – including the Apple Market (homemade crafts, not phones), the East Colonnade Market (unique goods) and the Jubilee Market (antiques). The shops typically stay open until about 6pm.

Restaurants are in abundance in Covent Garden – offering everything from street food to fine dining. For a low-cost meal while visiting London in three days, we recommend eating at one of the popular UK chains, like Franco Manco (wood-fired pizza), Honest Burgers (gourmet burgers), Le Bab (tasty kebabs) or Flat Iron (affordable steaks). For somewhere historic and truly British, make a reservation at The Lamb and Flag, a pub that dates to 1623.

DAY 3: GREENWICH, CANARY WHARF AND EAST END

Wrap up your London vacation by wandering through Chelsea, then hop a boat to Greenwich. Next, head north to Canary Wharf and finish the day in London’s vibrant East End for a delicious meal.

Morning: Doughnuts, Chelsea and Thames Riverboat Ride

Get an early start and enjoy a walk through affluent Chelsea. Pick up some sugary doughnuts from Bread Ahead Bakery on Pavilion Road and then make your way to the riverside and sail away to Greenwich.

In our opinion, a 3 Day Itinerary in London wouldn’t be complete without riding a boat on the River Thames. While there are numerous companies that offer Thames River boat cruises, the most affordable method of travel on the water is via the Thames Clipper (now in partnership with Uber).

Fares can be paid with an Oyster Card or contactless credit card, but booking via the Uber app saves a bit of money. That said, traveling to Greenwich by Tube or bus are cheaper options than the Thames Clipper.

Note that from Chelsea, the Cadogan Pier can be used for weekday trips. Otherwise, cross over Chelsea Bridge to the Battersea Power Station Pier for daily service. The ride takes about 1 hour.

Midday: Greenwich and Pie and Mash Lunch

The Royal Borough of Greenwich is an East London neighborhood that is teeming with sights. Known around the world as the location of the Prime Meridian, Greenwich has strong ties to sea navigation and astronomy.

Top free places to see include the Greenwich Market, Maritime Museum, the Queen’s House and the Royal Observatory (some exhibits free). The most interesting paid attractions include the Cutty Sark Ship, the Planetarium at the Royal Observatory and the Painted Hall at the Old Royal Navy College.

Visitors can easily spend an entire day in Greenwich. We share specific details in our article: Best Things To Do in Greenwich. However, for your London in 3 Days Itinerary, we recommend only staying for a few hours and seeing one or two of the top attractions.

Before leaving the area, eat a traditional Pie and Mash meal for lunch at Goddards. The family-run restaurant is an institution and has been serving the classic London dish at budget prices since 1890.

Alternatively (because gravy and jellied eels isn’t to everyone’s taste), pick up a cheap Meal Deal (sandwich, chips and a drink for a single low price) from a local supermarket, like Tesco Express and eat it picnic-style at Greenwich Park.

Afternoon: Canary Wharf

Once historic and now ultra-modern, Canary Wharf is one of the intriguing places to visit in London on a 3-day trip. Previously one of the world’s busiest ports, today London’s second financial district is marked by soaring skyscrapers, upscale eateries and unusual green spaces.

To get from Greenwich to Canary Wharf, travelers can walk under the river via the Foot Tunnel or take the convenient DLR train.

Our favorite place to visit in Canary Wharf is the engaging (and free) Museum of London Docklands that details the area’s past as a trading hub. The Crossrail Place Roof Garden and Mudchute Park and Farm are two unique (and free!) outdoor spaces.

Evening: East End and Shoreditch

The East End is an outstanding place to wrap up your perfect London Three Day Itinerary. Well known as a creative enclave, the district retains an edgy vibe despite it’s popularity. It features cool street art, incredible markets and foodie haunts that are hailed supreme by locals and visitors alike.

The quickest way to get to the East End from Canary Wharf is via the Elizabeth Line. Exit at Liverpool Street Station and get right to sightseeing. The multicultural district is ideal for wandering, but there are a few London East End places worth specifically seeking out.

Start at Spitalfields Market to peruse the collection of vintage goods and tempting fare. Then, make your way up Brick Lane and into Shoreditch to seek out the phenomenal public murals (you can use this free map to find some of the prime ones).

Dinner and Drinks: East End Restaurants

Ease into the final evening of your 3-day trip in London by getting a taste of the cracking cocktail scene. Make reservations for happy hour at The Cocktail Club or Old Street Records. For simple sips, enjoy a local beer at Commercial Tavern (it’s one of our favorite spots!).

For the last meal of your London 3-day trip, dine at an East End eatery for a taste of the city’s beloved Indian cuisine. Try one of the curry houses on Brick Lane – like Aladin or Sheba (book online at either restaurant to score a discount).

For Indian food in an eclectic atmosphere, go to mega-popular Dishoom in Shoreditch. Expect a line, as it’s first come first serve after 5:45pm for parties of 5 or less.

Alternatively, travelers can get in on the debate about who makes the best beigel salt beef sandwiches – Beigel Bake or Beigel Shop. The modestly-priced, take-away sandwiches are filling and delicious. A legendary late-night snack of area revelers, it’s a fantastic farewell meal in the Big Smoke!

Sightseeing in London Map

Use this Map to find the sights listed in our 3-Day London Itinerary. Day 1 is Blue; Day 2 Green; Day 3 Purple.

3 Day Itinerary: London Budget Travel

We have outlined an ideal plan for how to visit London in 3 days without draining your bank account. Now, we will breakdown our top money-saving advice.

How Much Does 3 Days in London Cost?

Aside from airfare, how much you spend on your 3 day London vacation will depend on what paid sights you choose to include, where you stay and what you eat and drink.

Realistically, a solo traveler could plan a trip that costs about $650 (not including flights). This estimate includes a small-but-tidy hotel room, cheap meals out, minimal drinks and some public transit – but no paid entry into sights.

Where To Stay in London for 3 Days

Finding a nice and cheap place to stay for a 3-day trip to London is a task. Hotels are notoriously expensive in the city center, regardless of the poor to average reviews. Yet, with so little time, you need to be centrally located and close to a major transit line.

One place that has worked for us is EasyHotel in Victoria, where it typically cost about $135 per night. Although the rooms are ridiculously small, the price is a bargain for the location. Read our tips for Finding Hotels for Cheap for more advice.

While there are many benefits to booking vacation apartments – like Airbnb – we believe it is too much of a hassle for short trips to London. When extra space and a kitchen are a must for us, we stay at Locke at Broken Wharf.

3 Days in London: Budget Food

Throughout our Three Days in London Itinerary, we feature cheap eats and budget drinks. We recommend budgeting about $40 a day per person for food if you are trying to stick to a budget.

Getting Around London

The most cost-effective way to get around London is on your own two feet. The city is flat and very walkable. We organized our Must-See in London 3 Days Itinerary by neighborhood to cut down on the need for transportation.

When you need to catch a ride, consider the bus first. London bus fares are at a flat-rate (£1.75) and the routes are extensive. The Tube, DLR and Overground are rail options – all of which will be cheaper than getting an Uber or hopping into a London Black Cab.

London Tourist Cards

We have showcased many free places, proving that it is possible to spend 72 hours in London and not pay for any sights. That said, travelers who want to visit ticketed attractions can save money using a London sightseeing pass. The London Pass tourist card can save visitors money, but only with a good plan.

By rearranging our outlined schedule of what to do in London in 3 days, visitors could save money using the One Day London Pass (which costs about $135). To get top value, plan to see the following ticketed attractions in a single day: Westminster Abbey, London Eye, Tower Bridge, Tower of London and St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Plus, the pass includes a Hop On Hop Off Bus. By organizing your sightseeing to include ticketed sights in a single day, it is possible to save about $50.

Planning an Itinerary for London in 3 Days

There is no doubt that planning a trip to London is a big task – especially if you only have three days! We are sharing our proven London travel tips to help you plan your vacation to England.

When To Go to London

A destination for all seasons, we believe there isn’t a bad time to go to London. The reality is that the best time to go to London is whenever you can get there! That said, travelers planning a Budget 3 Day Itinerary London will want to carefully determine when to go – as prices change by season.

Summer

Weather-wise, summers are sensational. Highs are typically in the 70s and the days are long – which is great for our outlined free London itinerary. However, crowds and prices are also at their hilt.

Autumn

An ideal time for those looking for fewer crowds and lower prices, autumn can be a great time to visit London. That said, it is the rainiest season, so be prepared for gray skies and showers. Travelers not afraid of getting a little wet, however, can snag discounted hotels and airfare.

Winter

London during winter was once something to be avoided, but now it’s known as one of the Best European Christmas Cities to see. Visitors who travel to London for Christmas get to experience the full effect of twinkling lights and holiday merriment. The celebrations continue after Christmas and London is a Fantastic Place to Ring in the New Year!

Sure, the winter weather can be crisp and there is sometimes snow…and always rain. Plus, the days are incredibly short – which is good for holiday lights, but not so much for seeing sights!

As with summer, London in December can see a spike in prices. The festivities are a big draw – and both the tourist attractions and holiday sights will be quite crowded. However, after the jolliness of the season, the remaining winter months are ideal for budget travelers.

Spring

Springtime weather in London can fluctuate – from cold and dreary to sunny and warm – in the same day (or hour!). That said, it’s an absolutely beautiful time to visit London, as it is in full bloom. Plus, there are fewer tourists and generally more affordable accommodations than summer.

How Many Days to Spend in London

Determining how long to stay in London will depend on your interests, budget and overall timeframe. While we could spend an entire year in the city and not get bored, we are all too familiar with time and cost constraints.

If you are still on the fence about how long to stay, check out our alternate suggested itineraries for London. Those limited to a single day can use our 1-Day London Itinerary. With more time, read our tips on How To Spend a Week in London!

How To Get to London

London is incredibly accessible. Travelers coming from the United States will likely arrive at London Heathrow Airport (LHR). From the European continent, low-cost carriers utilize Gatwick (LGW), Stansted (STN) and Luton (LTN) airports. London City Airport (LCY) is very convenient, but typically has the highest fares.

The cost of a flight from the US will likely be the biggest expense of the trip. Use our budget tips for Finding Cheap Airfare.

What To Pack for London

Now that you are well on your way to planning your best London itinerary, it’s time to talk packing. We have a few specific tips for London, but you can find all our hacks on our dedicated Travel Packing Page. Need a checklist? Grab one for FREE!

Good Walking Shoes: Our 3-Day London tour covers some ground! Be sure to pack a pair of lightweight and comfortable travel shoes.

Weather Gear: While London has a reputation for being a rainy-weather city, there are actually only about 100 rainy days a year. However, your time in London may coincide with some rain, so we recommend carrying a travel umbrella or bringing a packable raincoat.

Refillable Water Bottle: A refillable bottle can save you from endlessly buying water while out sightseeing. We believe these collapsible water bottles are great for travelers (and the environment!).

Travel Camera: On your three perfect days in London, we are certain that you will be snapping tons of photos! We use a Canon Rebel, it is one of the best cameras for budget travelers.

Day Pack: Be sure to bring a personal bag for your everyday travel items and make sure it has zippered pockets to deter pickpockets. Read about our top picks for great day bags!

London Travel Insurance can cover costs for a myriad of misfortunes (lost luggage, cancelled flights, illness while away). If you haven’t already obtained coverage for your trip to London, consider traveling protected with World Nomads (we do!).

Other Helpful London Guides

Our detailed guides feature heaps of information on how to see London in 3 days or more!

More for the UK & Europe

For those who are visiting more of England, the United Kingdom or the region, read our first-hand knowledge for these great destinations.

Start planning your trip to the UK! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!

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