If you only have 72 hours to conquer London, strategy is everything. This itinerary prioritizes clustering the most famous, must-see landmarks geographically, ensuring you maximize sightseeing time and minimize travel. Get ready for three packed days covering history, culture, and entertainment!
Day 1: Royal History & Westminster Icons
This day focuses entirely on the heart of political and royal London, where the most iconic landmarks are all within walking distance of each other.
| Time | Activity | Location & Vibe | Tip & Transport |
| Morning | Westminster Abbey | Visit the coronation church of British monarchs and the burial site of kings and poets. The architecture alone is worth the early start. | MUST book tickets online in advance. Arrive 15 minutes before opening to beat the overwhelming crowds. |
| Late Morning | Houses of Parliament & Big Ben | Step outside the Abbey to view the famous clock tower (Elizabeth Tower) and the seat of the UK government. | Walk across Westminster Bridge to the South Bank for the perfect, classic photo op. |
| Lunch | Trafalgar Square | Walk through St. James’s Park to Trafalgar Square. Grab a quick meal deal from a nearby supermarket (Pret a Manger, etc.) or a casual café. | |
| Afternoon | The National Gallery & Buckingham Palace | Spend 1-2 hours at the National Gallery (FREE entry!) to see masterpieces (Van Gogh, Monet). Then walk down The Mall to the gates of Buckingham Palace. | Check the schedule for the Changing of the Guard ceremony if you wish to see the military precision. |
| Evening | Dinner & West End Show | Enjoy dinner in Covent Garden or Soho, followed by an essential West End theatre show (a musical or play). | Budget Tip: Check the TKTS booth in Leicester Square for same-day discounted theatre tickets. |
Day 2: Medieval Intrigue & City Views
Today focuses on the East, covering medieval history, the City of London’s financial hub, and panoramic modern views.
| Time | Activity | Location & Vibe | Tip & Transport |
| Morning | Tower of London | Explore the historic fortress where the Crown Jewels are kept. This is London’s most essential historical visit. | Arrive exactly at opening (9:00 AM) and head straight to the Crown Jewels exhibit—the queue gets long immediately. |
| Late Morning | Tower Bridge Experience | Walk onto the iconic bridge. Book the Tower Bridge Experience to walk the glass floor walkway high above the Thames. | This provides the best view of the Tower of London and the City skyline. |
| Lunch | Borough Market | Walk across London Bridge to Borough Market—London’s oldest and most famous food market. | Check operating days (best on Thursday–Saturday). Arrive hungry and graze on the incredible street food (Chorizo roll, fresh oysters). |
| Afternoon | St Paul’s Cathedral | Explore Sir Christopher Wren’s massive dome. | Climb the dome! The views from the exterior Golden Gallery are exceptional, but note the climb is strenuous. |
| Evening | Sky Garden | Enjoy FREE access to London’s highest public garden for sunset and evening views. | MUST book a free time slot online several weeks in advance! If you miss out, the Garden at 120 is a free, lesser-known alternative nearby. |
Day 3: Museums, Markets & Local Charm
Day 3 balances major cultural sites (free!) with the charming, unique atmospheres of London’s favourite neighbourhoods.
| Time | Activity | Location & Vibe | Tip & Transport |
| Morning | The British Museum | Start your day with world-class artifacts: the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian Mummies, and the Parthenon Sculptures. (FREE entry) | Focus your visit on the Great Court and the two or three most famous galleries to avoid fatigue. |
| Late Morning | South Kensington Museums | Head south to the Natural History Museum and the V&A (Victoria & Albert Museum). These are right next to each other. (FREE entry) | Marvel at the Hintze Hall (the Blue Whale) in the Natural History Museum—it’s worth the Tube ride alone. |
| Lunch | South Kensington | Grab a quick, affordable lunch at one of the cafés near the museums or a supermarket meal deal. | |
| Afternoon | Notting Hill & Portobello Road | Take the Tube to Notting Hill Gate. Wander the streets of pastel-coloured houses and browse the famous Portobello Road Market. | Best day for antiques is Saturday. On weekdays, it’s quieter but still great for photos. |
| Evening | Farewell Dinner & London Eye | Enjoy a final dinner near your hotel or in the South Bank area. End your trip with a ride on the London Eye for a stunning night view. | Book your London Eye tickets online for the evening slot (around 7 PM) to see the city lights sparkle. |
This packed itinerary ensures you hit all the major highlights. If you had to swap one museum for a different experience (e.g., The British Museum for the Harry Potter Studio Tour), which would you choose?