Ultimate 3-Day London Itinerary: Iconic Sights, Markets, Street Art, and Afternoon Tea
Having traveled across Europe for nearly three months this year and lived in London for years, I can confidently say it remains my favorite European city. No other destination rivals its unparalleled culture, food, nightlife, markets, shopping, green spaces, activities, theater, and urban exploration opportunities. Recently, I guided a first-time visitor through the city, drawing on my extensive experience as a former resident. Here's my expert-recommended 3-day itinerary for an unforgettable weekend in London.
3 Days in London: A Curated Itinerary
This itinerary covers must-see landmarks, afternoon tea, top museums, street art, scenic walks, green spaces, delectable food, and evening entertainment.
Day 1: Royal London and Iconic Sights
Begin at Victoria Station and walk to St Paul’s Cathedral, or extend into the City of London for views from the Monument and a pint at Leadenhall Market.
Follow signs to Buckingham Palace. Royal enthusiasts can tour in summer (tickets from £20.50). Most enjoy photos of the guards. Catch the Changing of the Guard at 11:30am (daily April-July, alternate days otherwise)—a free spectacle.
From the palace, stroll through Green Park to the Horse Guards, then down Whitehall past Downing Street to Big Ben and Houses of Parliament opposite Westminster Abbey. Cross Westminster Bridge, turn left onto the South Bank’s Queen’s Walk.
Opt for the London Eye (£19.35) or walk over a mile to Millennium Bridge. Visit Tate Modern’s exhibitions in a former power station—one of the world’s best contemporary art museums. The café offers stunning views.
Cross to St Paul’s Cathedral (full entry £18.00 or peek inside). Continue to the Monument (202 ft tall, £4 views after 311 steps—no lift, but earn a certificate).
Reward yourself with a pint at Leadenhall Market (14th-century covered market, Diagon Alley from Harry Potter). Enjoy British pub fare at Lamb Tavern.
Day 2: Notting Hill and Central London
Start with breakfast on Portobello Road amid antique shops and charming Georgian, Edwardian, Victorian architecture. On Saturdays, visit the bustling Portobello Road Antiques Market early.
Top spots: Electric Diner, Egg Slut, Lowry & Baker (coffee too), or Granger & Co. Stroll Westbourne Grove, Garway Road to Kensington Gardens (Hyde Park extension). See free exhibitions at Serpentine Gallery, then head to Marble Arch.
Afternoon Tea in London
Indulge in afternoon tea—a London essential. Try innovative Street Food Afternoon Tea with mini burgers, risotto balls, skewers, quesadillas, eclairs, macarons, and teas. Favorites: Mad Hatter at Sanderson, Prêt-à-Portea at The Berkeley, or traditional Fortnum & Mason. See Conde Nast Traveler’s guide.
Post-tea, shop Oxford Street, then escape to Carnaby Street via Argyll Street for indie shops and bites. End in vibrant Soho: theater via CompareTheatreTickets.com, or dine at Franco Manca (pizza), Oka (sushi), Bao (Taiwanese), Fernandez & Wells (tapas), Princi (Italian), Busaba Eathai (Thai), Yalla Yalla (Lebanese). Drinks: French House (beer), Lyric Tavern (pub), Mark’s Bar (cocktails), Experimental Cocktail Club (speakeasy), Milk & Honey (reservations).
Day 3: East London Markets and Street Art
On Sunday, explore Columbia Road Flower Market or Brick Lane flea market at Old Truman Brewery (artsy shops). Enjoy Brick Lane’s renowned Indian/Bangladeshi curries—check Tripadvisor or ratings. Nearby, Petticoat Lane Market for fashion bargains.
Street Art in East London
Discover graffiti by Banksy, ROA, Stik via free walking tour (tip-based, 2pm weekdays, book online) or self-guided route.
Visit Camden Markets around Regent’s Canal—food stalls shine. Walk to Primrose Hill for panoramic views.
Budget and Time-Saving Tips
Read my guide to visiting London on a budget. Get an Oyster Card—day travel £6.50 vs. £12.10 cash. For attractions, consider London Pass (£75/2 days, £89/3). Use sightseeing buses 11 or 24 (£4.50 with Oyster). Rainy days: Free museums like British Museum, National Gallery, V&A, Natural History.
