3-Day London Itinerary: The Plan That Covers It All

Three days in London is the sweet spot. You’ll get all the highlights without the rush, and enough time to dive deeper into the culture—whether that’s afternoon tea, boutique shopping, or watching the King’s Guard clack past in perfect unison. This 3-day London itinerary gives you structure without killing spontaneity. Walk through royal parks, explore ancient fortresses, sip cocktails with a skyline view, and still have time to wander. Let’s do this.

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All London Itineraries

✈️ Getting to London

London has six major airports, but Heathrow (LHR) and Gatwick (LGW) are the ones most international travelers use.

• Heathrow Express: Fastest train to central London (15 min)
• Elizabeth Line: Slower but cheaper and more connected
• Gatwick Express: Direct to Victoria Station

From Paris, just take the Eurostar. It’s faster and easier than flying.

Pro Tip: Tap your credit card or phone on the Tube—no ticket needed.

Day 1: Royals, Guards, and Classic London

☕️ 8:00 AM – Coffee at Redemption Roasters, Bloomsbury

📍84b Lamb’s Conduit St, London WC1N 3LR


A coffee shop with a purpose—staffed by ex-offenders who trained as baristas behind bars. More importantly? The espresso is excellent. Start your day with something strong before you hit the royal circuit.

📖 More recs → Where to Eat Near the British Museum & Russel Square

🕐 9:00 AM – Explore Westminster Abbey and Watch the Changing of the Guard

Start at Parliament Square, then head into Westminster Abbey to see the Coronation Chair, Poet’s Corner, and royal tombs.

Continue past Downing Street and through St. James’s Park before ending at Buckingham Palace in time for the Changing of the Guard.

INTERESSANTE FACT: The bearskin hats worn by the King’s Guard are made from Canadian black bear fur and stand nearly 18 inches tall.

🍽️ 12:30 PM – Lunch at Bancone, Golden Square

📍8-10 Lower James St, London W1F 9EL


Fresh pasta made daily in an open kitchen. Sit at the counter if you can. The cacio e pepe and silk handkerchief pasta with walnut butter are house favorites.

📖 More recs → Where to Eat in London

🕐 2:00 PM – National Gallery + Trafalgar Square

Walk off lunch with a visit to the National Gallery—home to works by Van Gogh, Turner, Monet, and da Vinci. Entry is free, and even an hour here gives you a cultural hit. Then step out into Trafalgar Square for a bit of people-watching.

🕐 4:00 PM – Window Shop in Covent Garden

Make your way to Covent Garden to browse boutiques, watch street performers, or grab a snack from a food stall. If you want something uniquely British, check out Penhaligon’s for classic colognes or Neal’s Yard for natural skincare.

📖 More recs → The Best London Shopping Itinerary

🍸 6:00 PM – Aperitivo at Les Mochis

📍100 Liverpool St, London EC2M 2AT


Sleek and modern, Les Mochis blends Japanese and Mexican flavors with standout cocktails like the yuzu margarita—perfect before dinner.

📖 More recs → Best Cocktail Bars in London

🍽️ 7:30 PM – Dinner at Som Saa

📍43A Commercial St, London E1 6BD


A laid-back Thai restaurant in Spitalfields known for its fiery curries, fried chicken, and lively atmosphere—perfect for ending your first day in London.

📖 More recs → Where to Eat in London

Day 2: Windsor, Stonehenge & Bath

☕️ 7:00 AM – Coffee at Rosslyn Coffee

📍78 Queen Victoria St, London EC4N 4SJ


Get an early start with a top-tier flat white from one of London’s best specialty coffee shops before your big day out.

🕐 7:45 AM – Day Trip to Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath

👉 Book the Small Group Day Tour to Bath, Windsor Castle, and Stonehenge


Spend the day exploring three of England’s most iconic sites with an expert guide and small group:

• Windsor Castle: Visit the world’s oldest working royal residence and St. George’s Chapel.
  
  
• Stonehenge: Walk the perimeter of this ancient, mysterious stone circle and hear the theories behind its purpose.
  
  
• Bath: Stroll the elegant Georgian streets, visit the Roman Baths, and snap a photo of the Royal Crescent.

Lunch is on your own in Bath—there are plenty of traditional pubs and cafés around town.

INTERESTING FACT: Windsor Castle has been continuously inhabited for over 900 years—and it’s still the Queen’s weekend residence.

🍸 6:30 PM – Aperitivo at The American Bar, The Savoy

📍The Savoy, Strand, London WC2R 0EZ


An old-school, white-jacketed cocktail bar with some of the best martinis in London. Classy, classic, and close to the river.

📖 More recs → Best Rooftop Bars in London

🍽️ 8:00 PM – Dinner at Parsons

📍39 Endell St, London WC2H 9BA


A cozy seafood-focused spot in Covent Garden known for daily specials, hand-drawn menus, and simple dishes done perfectly.

Day 3: Towers, History & East London Flavor

☕️ 8:00 AM – Coffee at Ozone Coffee

📍10-12 Creechurch Ln, London EC3A 5AY


Tucked between the City and Aldgate, this minimalist café is known for strong espresso and quick service, perfect before a morning of history.

🕐 9:00 AM – Tower of London

👉 Book the London Tower Tour


Step into the 1,000-year-old fortress that once housed kings, traitors, and the most guarded jewels in Britain. With a guide, you’ll explore:

• The infamous Traitor’s Gate
• The White Tower
• The Crown Jewels exhibit
  

INTERESTING FACT: Legend has it that if the ravens ever leave the Tower, the kingdom will fall.

🍽️ 12:00 PM – Lunch at E. Pellicci

📍332 Bethnal Green Rd, London E2 0AG


A classic East End Italian café that’s been serving up fry-ups, pastas, and meat pies since 1900. Family-run and full of charm.

📖 More recs → Where to Eat Near the Tower of London

🕐 1:30 PM – Walk & Browse Shoreditch Street Art

After lunch, explore Shoreditch’s streets, galleries, and independent shops. Keep an eye out for famous works by Banksy and the district’s ever-changing murals.

📖 More recs → The Best London Shopping Itinerary

🍽️ 3:30 PM – Afternoon Tea at Fortnum & Mason

📍181 Piccadilly, London W1A 1ER


Few places do tea quite like Fortnum’s. Go all-in with scones, finger sandwiches, and pastries served on silver trays. It’s indulgent, but this is London—you’re allowed.

📖 More recs → Best Afternoon Tea in London

🍸 6:00 PM – Aperitivo at Boundary Rooftop Bar

📍2-4 Boundary St, London E2 7DD


A chilled-out rooftop with fairy lights, garden vibes, and a solid Negroni—great for golden hour in East London.

📖 More recs → Best Rooftop Bars in London

🍽️ 7:30 PM – Dinner at Smokestak

📍35 Sclater St, London E1 6LB


London’s best BBQ, hands down. Go for the brisket bun, grilled greens, and sticky toffee pudding to close out your trip right.

Best Time to Visit London

• Spring and fall are ideal for comfortable weather and lighter crowds.
  
  
• Summer is festive and full of energy.
  
  
• Winter offers cozy vibes and off-season pricing (just bring layers).

How Much Does a 3-Day London Itinerary Cost?

• Budget: £150–£250 (street food, public transport, free museums)
  
  
• Mid-range: £350–£600 (guided tours, quality meals, hotel)
  
  
• Luxury: £800+ (private guides, fine dining, boutique stays)

What You’ll Leave With

• Stories from castles, cathedrals, and curry houses
  
  
• A few new obsessions (like sticky toffee pudding or street art in Shoreditch)
  
  
• The urge to plan a return trip the second you board your flight

Final Thoughts: 3-Day London Itinerary

Three days in London gives you the space to see the essentials and the freedom to wander deeper. You’ll leave with royal landmarks, pub lunches, riverside sunsets, and centuries of stories still buzzing in your head.