London Travel Guide: What To Visit In A Weekend Getaway
London, the vibrant capital of England, offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and modernity. Once you visit London, it will be hard to never come back!
With its iconic landmarks, world-class museums, bustling markets, and diverse culinary scene, a weekend in London promises an unforgettable experience. And as someone who has spent several months living there I’m here to deliver your ultimate travel guide for making the most of your two days in this captivating city.
Day 1: Exploring London's Icons
Morning:
1. Buckingham Palace: Start your day with a visit to Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch. Witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony at 11:00 AM (subject to schedule that you can always check here), a quintessential London experience.
2. St. James's Park: Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque St. James's Park, located just opposite Buckingham Palace. Enjoy the serene ambiance, lush greenery, and charming wildlife, including pelicans and ducks.
Afternoon:
3. Westminster Abbey: Head to Westminster Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its stunning Gothic architecture and rich history. Explore the final resting place of many monarchs, poets, and statesmen as well as the altar that saw so many monarchs get their coronation such as Queen Victoria, Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles.
Westminster Abbey Tickets Here (from £29)
4. Houses of Parliament & Big Ben: Nearby, marvel at the iconic Houses of Parliament and the iconic clock tower, Big Ben.
Westminster bridge & London Eye: and as you are in Westminster, make sure to take some time to cross Westminster Bridge while admiring the views, including the iconic London Eye.
Book Your London Eye Tickets Here (from £30)
Evening:
6. Thames River Cruise With Uber Boat: Experience London from a different perspective with a scenic Thames River cruise. Enjoy breathtaking views of the city's skyline, passing by landmarks such as the Tower Bridge, Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, and the Shard.
Check all information and tickets here (from £10)
7. Southbank: After the cruise, wander along the Southbank promenade, bustling with street performers, food stalls, and cultural venues. Catch a performance at the Royal Festival Hall or simply unwind with panoramic views of the Thames.
Night:
8. West End Theatre: End your day with a dazzling performance at one of London's world-famous West End theatres. From timeless classics to cutting-edge productions, there's something for every theatre enthusiast.
Check shows and tickets here | For last minute discounted tickets check here
Day 2: Cultural Immersion & Culinary Delights
Morning:
1. British Museum: Begin your day at the British Museum, home to a vast collection of art and artifacts spanning centuries and civilizations. Highlights include the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies, and the Parthenon sculptures.
Entrance: free
2. Covent Garden: After the museum, wander through Covent Garden, a bustling district renowned for its vibrant street performers, boutique shops, and quaint cafes. Don't miss the historic market hall, filled with artisanal stalls offering a variety of crafts and gourmet treats.
Afternoon:
3. Tower of London: Dive into the city's medieval past with a visit to the Tower of London. Explore the fortress's dark dungeons, admire the Crown Jewels, and learn about its fascinating history, including tales of royal intrigue and execution.
Information and Tickets (from £17.40)
4. Borough Market: Indulge your senses at Borough Market, London's oldest food market, brimming with tantalizing aromas and flavors from around the world. Sample gourmet delights, artisanal cheeses, fresh produce, and street food specialties.
Evening:
5. The Shard: Head to The Shard, Western Europe's tallest skyscraper, for panoramic views of London at sunset. The viewing platform on the 72nd floor offers unparalleled vistas of the cityscape, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.
Information and Tickets (from £28.50)
6. Dinner in Soho: Conclude your weekend with a culinary adventure in Soho, London's eclectic dining hub. From Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy gastropubs and trendy eateries, Soho offers a diverse range of dining options to suit every palate and budget.
Night:
7. Nightlife in Shoreditch: Experience London's vibrant nightlife in Shoreditch, known for its hip bars, quirky clubs, and live music venues. Join the locals for cocktails, craft beers, and cutting-edge beats, and immerse yourself in the city's dynamic after-dark scene. It won´t be hard for you to find a place in Shoreditch that is your vibe as there are choices for all tastes.
And while in Shoreditch, do not miss the best bagels in town (vegan options available) at Beiger Bake Brick Lane Bakery, open 24 hours!
Additional Tips:
Transportation: Use London's efficient public transportation system, including the Tube, buses, and iconic black cabs, to navigate the city conveniently.
Tickets: Consider purchasing attraction tickets in advance to skip the queues and maximize your time exploring.
Weather: Pack accordingly, as London weather can be unpredictable. Bring layers and an umbrella to prepare for any changes in weather.
Book a photo walk: Say goodbye to awkward selfies that look all the same and make the most out of your time in the city by booking your London photo walk experience with me. I’ll make sure to capture your best moments and show you some hidden gems worth visiting so you can bring home a one of a kind souvenir!
Congratulations, you're now ready to embark on a memorable weekend adventure in London, filled with cultural discoveries, culinary delights, and unforgettable experiences. Enjoy your stay in this vibrant metropolis!
Safe travels ♡
Patricia
