3 Days in London: The Ultimate Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
Leicester Square Station. Photo by Tom Wheatley from Unsplash
Planning 3 days in London? Brilliant choice. This city is electric — part history book, part foodie paradise, part modern metropolis. But here’s the thing: London can feel overwhelming the first time around. Where do you even start?
That’s where I come in. I’ve lived here long enough to know which tourist spots are worth your time, where to sneak off for local vibes, and even which side of the Tube escalator to stand on (hint: always the right).
Here’s my local’s guide to the ultimate 3-day London itinerary — fun, exciting, and with insider tips that will make you feel like you belong here.
Day 1 – The London Icons & Riverside Magic
☀️ Morning – Kick Off with the Classics
Start your trip in Westminster — because yes, even us locals stop and stare when Big Ben chimes.
The Houses of Parliament look even more majestic up close, and Westminster Abbey is as grand inside as it is outside.
Then walk down Whitehall (past the mounted horse guards you can snap a selfie with) until you hit Trafalgar Square.
I still remember climbing on the lion statues here as a kid, and it never loses that buzz (although I don’t think you can do that anymore, soz).
Then Pop into the National Gallery — it’s free, quiet in the mornings, and yes, Van Gogh’s Sunflowers is right there.
Red Buses on Westminster Bridge. Photo by Klajdi Cena from Pexels
🍽 Lunch – Covent Garden
Covent Garden has a certain energy — street performers juggling fire, opera singers belting arias, and a piazza that’s always alive.
Grab lunch at Dishoom (the black daal and naan combo = heaven). Pro tip: go early or book ahead, locals know the queue is real.
Or you can also try Seven Dials Market. If you can’t decide what you’re craving, this food hall has tacos, ramen, bao buns, pizza—you name it. One of my favourite spots in the area!
Covent Garden. Photo by Adrien Olichon from Pexels
🌉 Afternoon – South Bank Stroll
Then cross the Thames to Southbank. It’s one of my favourite walks in the city — you’ll pass the London Eye, skateboarders under the bridge, and food stalls pumping out the smell of churros and coffee.
Head into the Tate Modern (free) and ride the lift to the top floor for panoramic city views most tourists miss.
If you’ve got the time, make a quick stop at Millennium Bridge on your way to Tower Bridge—it’s the perfect spot for that iconic photo of St. Paul’s Cathedral.
View of St Pauls Cathedral from Millennium Bridge. Photo by Ion Ceban from Pexels
🍸 Evening – Tower Bridge then Pub
As the sun goes down, make your way toward Tower Bridge.
At night, with the lights reflecting on the Thames, it’s pure London magic.
End the day with dinner and pints at The Anchor Bankside — an old pub that’s seen Shakespearean actors, sailors, and now, you.
Tower Bridge. Photo by Fabian Kühne from Unsplash
👉 Wanna see the Tower of London?
If you want to actually go inside the Tower of London (and see the Crown Jewels up close!), I’d recommend flipping this day’s itinerary a bit.
Start your morning at the Tower—it’s so much better before the tour groups and school kids pile in. You’ll have space to wander the old fortress, soak up the history, and really take it all in.
From there, you can stroll along the South Bank, continue to Westminster in the afternoon, and end your evening with dinner in Covent Garden.
It’s a smoother route, and seeing the Tower in the calm of the morning feels like stepping straight back into history—without the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds.
Day 2 – Royals, Markets & Soho Nights
👑 Morning – Royal London
You can’t skip the royals. Head to Buckingham Palace, and if you’re lucky, catch the Changing of the Guard.
Locals may not stop here daily, but the pomp still gives you chills.
Stroll through St. James’s Park after — the pelicans (a gift from Russia in 1664!) are a quirky London secret.
King’s Guards Outside Buckingham Palace
🛍 Late Morning – Borough Market
This is where I always take visiting friends. The smell of sizzling chorizo, fresh bread, and curry all at once — it’s intoxicating.
Grab a salt beef sandwich or fresh oysters, and wander the stalls. My tip: go around 11 AM before the lunchtime crush.
Salt Beef Sandwich in Borough Market
Paella Stall in Borough Market
🎨 Afternoon – Shoreditch Vibes
Hop east to Shoreditch. It’s gritty, creative, and loud in the best way.
Think massive Banksy murals, record shops, and indie cafés that roast their own beans. Boxpark (a pop-up mall in shipping containers) is where London’s cool kids hang.
Or, if you’re feeling more alt, head up to Camden.
This is London’s rock ’n’ roll heart — leather jackets, vintage stalls, and a market that never seems to end.
Amy Winehouse called it home, and you’ll still find murals, tributes, and stories of her everywhere.
Camden’s venues are legendary too — from sticky-floored pubs where punk exploded to the Electric Ballroom where new bands still blow the roof off.
Grab street food by the lock, wander through the chaos, and let the music drag you in.
Camden Town
🍷 Evening – Soho Night Out
Back to central London — Soho is buzzing every night.
Narrow streets packed with pubs, jazz bars, and restaurants that feel alive even on a Tuesday.
Dinner at Barrafina (sit at the bar and watch tapas magic happen), then head underground to Cahoots, a WWII-themed bar in a disused Tube station.
You’ll drink cocktails from teacups and forget you’re in the 21st century.
If Soho isn’t your vibe (it’s not mine either), head over to Mayfair or Bond Street.
Mayfair, one of London’s most elegant and expensive neighbourhoods, is famous for its luxury shops, fine dining, and grand architecture.
I always stop by Mercato Mayfair, a stunning old church transformed into a vibrant food hall.
Soho during Christmas. Photo by Marcel Heil from Unsplash
The atmosphere is incredible, and the food here is among the most reasonably priced you’ll find in Mayfair — making it a rare gem in such a high-end area.
Alternatively, you can explore nearby spots, from cozy pubs to upscale restaurants, depending on what you’re in the mood for.
Day 3 – An Easy Day: Notting Hill Photos & Harrods Indulgence
After two packed days of sightseeing, day 3 is all about slowing down and enjoying London at a gentler pace. Think lazy photo walks, casual market food, and ending with one of the city’s most indulgent rituals - Harrods.
📸 Late Morning – Notting Hill Stroll
Sleep in a little, then wander through the pastel-coloured streets of Notting Hill. This is London at its prettiest — candy-colored houses, quiet mews, and leafy corners that feel like a film set. It’s the perfect backdrop for those last-day photos.
Colourful Houses in Nottinghill. Photo by Anthony Bressy on Pexels
🍴 Lunch – Portobello Road Market
While you’re here, head to Portobello Road Market. Grab a casual lunch from the street food stalls — paella, falafel wraps, or a classic fish & chips — while browsing antiques, vintage fashion, and quirky curiosities.
Portobello Market. Photo by Photo by Sıla Deniz Göktaş from Pexels
🛍 Afternoon – Harrods Shopping & Afternoon Tea
From boho to luxury, shift gears with a trip to Harrods. Even if you’re just window-shopping, the Food Halls, Egyptian Escalator, and dazzling displays make it a must-visit.
When you’re ready to rest, treat yourself to a proper Harrods Afternoon Tea — delicate sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream, and elegant pastries.
It’s best to book a reservation in advance, especially on weekends, as tables fill up quickly.
Harrods also has a smart-casual dress code, so it’s worth dressing up a little for the occasion.
After two busy days, this is the most civilised way to slow down and toast your London adventure.
Harrods. Photo by Dushawn Jovic from Pexels
🏨 Evening – Back to Hotel then Dinner
After tea, head back to your hotel to rest and freshen up. For dinner, keep it easy: enjoy a cozy local spot nearby, or if you’ve still got energy, one last wander through Central London for a farewell meal in the heart of the city.
Here are four excellent options depending on your vibe:
Pub Classic – The Devonshire (Soho)
A beautifully restored pub that’s become a new Soho favorite. Expect perfectly pulled pints, hearty British plates, and a proper London pub buzz.Hidden Gem – Mercato Mayfair (Mayfair)
A stunning food hall set inside a deconsecrated church. You can wander the stalls for global eats, sip wine in the crypt, or sit down in the nave surrounded by stained glass — unforgettable atmosphere.Insta-Worthy – Sketch (Mayfair)
Michelin-starred dining meets playful, art-filled interiors. The pink gallery dining room and futuristic pod bathrooms are legendary for Instagram, but the food and cocktails live up to the hype too. Reservation is a must.Dinner with a View – Duck & Waffle (City of London)
Perched on the 40th floor, it’s open late and delivers jaw-dropping skyline views. Their namesake dish — crispy duck leg and a fried egg over a waffle with maple syrup — is as indulgent as the views. Reservation is a must.
The Churchill Arms, Kensington
✨ Final Sip
3 days in London will fly by, but you’ll get the best of both worlds — the iconic landmarks, the local gems, and just enough indulgence. The real trick is not to rush it. London isn’t a city you conquer; it’s one you soak up.
And trust me, whether it’s laughing at a street performer in Covent Garden, sipping a pint riverside, or enjoying tea at Harrods, you’ll leave already planning your next trip.
3 Days in London Summary
Day 1 – The Icons & Riverside Magic
Morning:
Big Ben, Houses of Parliament & Westminster Abbey
Walk Whitehall → Trafalgar Square → National Gallery (Van Gogh’s Sunflowers)
Lunch:
Covent Garden (Dishoom or Seven Dials Market for variety)
Afternoon:
South Bank stroll (London Eye, Tate Modern rooftop, Millennium Bridge views of St. Paul’s)
Evening:
Tower Bridge lit up over the Thames
Dinner at a classic riverside pub
👉 Alt route: Start at the Tower of London early to see the Crown Jewels, then follow the South Bank toward Westminster.
Day 2 – Royals, Markets & Soho Nights
Morning:
Buckingham Palace & Changing of the Guard
St. James’s Park stroll (spot the pelicans)
Late Morning:
Borough Market → salt beef sandwiches, oysters, or global street food
Afternoon:
Shoreditch (Banksy murals, Boxpark, indie cafés) or Camden (vintage stalls, rock ’n’ roll vibe, Amy Winehouse tributes)
Evening:
Soho buzz: tapas at Barrafina + cocktails at Cahoots (WWII-themed bar)
Day 3 – An Easy Day: Photos & Indulgence
Late Morning:
Notting Hill pastel streets & mews (perfect for photos)
Lunch:
Portobello Road Market street food (paella, falafel, fish & chips)
Afternoon:
Harrods → shop, explore Food Halls & Egyptian Escalator
Treat yourself to Harrods Afternoon Tea (scones, clotted cream, pastries)
Evening (choose your finale):
Pub Classic – The Devonshire (Soho)
Hidden Gem – Mercato Mayfair (food hall in a converted church)
Insta-Worthy – Sketch (Mayfair; pink dining room & iconic bathrooms)
Dinner with a View – Duck & Waffle (40th floor skyline views)
