My Ultimate 2 Days in London Itinerary – What I Loved & What I’d Do Next Time (2025)

Last Updated on March 29, 2025 by Oliver

I know this might be a bit controversial, but London is probably my favorite major city in Europe. Maybe not to live in full-time, but as a tourist? Absolutely.

I’ve been quite a few times now, and at least once a year, I get the urge to go back. I see pictures of cozy London pubs, classic pub food, and all the cool sights and activities, and suddenly, I’m checking flights again.

That said, I know London isn’t exactly a budget-friendly destination. It can get expensive fast, which is why I usually recommend visiting for just a weekend and making the most of it. Pack your days with sightseeing—otherwise, you’ll just be spending a fortune without seeing much.

Since so many people have asked me for a 2 days in London itinerary, I’ve put together this guide with my favorite things to do. Just a heads-up: this itinerary is packed. It’s definitely doable (I’ve done it myself), but there won’t be a ton of downtime. Of course, if something doesn’t interest you, feel free to swap it out for a slower-paced day. Take what you need, skip what you don’t, and enjoy London your way!

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2 Days in London Itinerary: Day 1

Before we jump into the first activity, let me just say—I have no idea where you’re staying in London. So, starting at Buckingham Palace might not make sense for you at all. But this is where I usually kick things off, and I highly recommend staying somewhere in Central London so you can easily walk or hop on the Tube (their metro) to get around. If you need more details on transportation, I’ve got a whole section on that later in the guide.

Now, before we get started, let’s talk breakfast (I’ve also got a full section on where to eat in London further down). When I’m sightseeing, I like to keep things easy and grab something to go—especially on a short 2-day trip where time is money. My go-to? Greggs. It’s a bakery chain in England that does sausage rolls, pies, and other super tasty (and cheap) snacks. If you want something a little nicer, I’d recommend Nostos Coffee in Westminster. Great coffee, delicious pastries, and just a few minutes’ walk from our first stop: Buckingham Palace.

Backpacking or traveling through Europe? Amsterdam might be your next stop! Check out my full four days in Amsterdam itinerary.

Buckingham Palace & St. James’s Park

We’re starting in Westminster and walking over to Buckingham Palace—it’s just a few minutes away, and you’ll see the iconic Buckingham Palace, home of the British royal family. The goal is to catch the Changing of the Guard, which happens every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday between 10:30 AM and 10:45 AM. This is when the royal guards (yep, the guys in red uniforms with the big black hats) march in front of Buckingham Palace. It’s a pretty cool sight to see.

If you want more than just snapping a few photos from the outside, you can also book a guided tour of Buckingham Palace. Just a heads-up—spots are super limited, so book as early as possible.

After Buckingham Palace, I always take a stroll through St. James’s Park, the massive park right in front of it. On the edges, you’ll see rows of classic British townhouses—super cute, but also some of the most expensive real estate in the country, easily worth millions.

My Ultimate 2 Days in London Itinerary – What I Loved & What I’d Do Next Time (2025)
Family Picture in front of the Buckingham Palace!!

Westminster Abbey

Once you’ve wandered all the way through St. James’s Park from Buckingham Palace down The Mall, you’ll end up near Westminster Abbey. You’ve probably heard the name before—this is where all the big royal weddings happen. Elizabeth and Philip, William and Kate, even Diana and Charles. It’s easily the most famous church in the country, nearly 1,000 years old, and absolutely worth seeing, even if it’s just from the outside.

I did a tour of Westminster Abbey before, and it was actually really interesting. You’ll learn a lot about the royal weddings, the history of London, and how the church was built. But it’s not cheap—expect to pay around £30 for the tour. That said, Westminster Abbey is still just a regular church, so it’s open for individual prayer, and you can enter for free if you’re actually there to pray. Not saying to fake it just to get in, but if you do want a quiet moment inside, that’s an option. I’m not super religious, so I just went for the tour.

Big Ben (Elizabeth Tower)

By now, you can probably tell how insanely walkable London is. You’re just strolling around, and boom—another iconic sight pops up. That’s one of the coolest things about this city.

Just around the corner from Westminster Abbey is Elizabeth Tower. And yes, I am that person who’s going to tell you that the famous clock tower everyone calls Big Ben is actually called Elizabeth Tower. Big Ben is just the massive bell inside. But hey, I guess the bell stole the show.

Now, I really hope that when you turn that corner and get your first glimpse of Big Ben, you actually get to see it in all its glory. Because every single time I’ve visited, it’s been covered in scaffolding. I’ve never properly seen it, which is honestly tragic. So fingers crossed for you.

They do offer tours where you can walk up the tower and see the real Big Ben bell, which is pretty cool. But getting a ticket is harder than scoring seats to Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour. Tickets drop on the second Wednesday of every month at 10:00 AM, and if you’re not already sitting at your laptop, card in hand, you’ve got no chance.

My Ultimate 2 Days in London Itinerary – What I Loved & What I’d Do Next Time (2025)

Palace of Westminster

From Big Ben, you’ll cross Westminster Bridge, and the views here are next-level. The entire Palace of Westminster is laid out in front of you, easily one of the most impressive buildings in London. This is where the UK Parliament meets, basically the British version of the Capitol in DC or the Reichstag in Berlin. And yes, you can actually tour it.

If you’re not planning on doing every single tour possible, this one is the best pick. Seeing the grand halls, the debating chambers, and all that history up close is absolutely worth it. If you’re choosing between Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and this, Westminster Palace wins.

Also, I’m not gonna point it out every time you’re at a Harry Potter filming location because this isn’t a Harry Potter tour of London, but just so you know—this is where they fly their brooms in the opening scene of Order of the Phoenix. Yes, I’m a Potterhead.

London Eye

Now that you’ve made it to the other side of the Thames, you can wander along south bank for a while, and it’s actually a pretty great walk. You’ll pass loads of pubs, little shops, restaurants, and street performers doing their thing. The first big sight you’ll come across is the London Eye.

Alright, let’s be real. I’ve been on the London Eye, and if you’re short on time or money, this is the first thing I’d skip. It’s fun, and if you’re visiting with family or kids, they’ll probably love it. But if you’re here for the best views in London, there are way better (and often cheaper) options. So yeah, solid experience, but definitely skippable.

My Ultimate 2 Days in London Itinerary – What I Loved & What I’d Do Next Time (2025)

Borough Market (Lunch Stop)

Right from the London Eye, you can just walk along the Thames all the way to Borough Market. It’s almost impossible to miss if you just keep following the river past the Millennium Bridge—cough also a Harry Potter filming location cough.

Alright, I’ll be honest—Borough Market is probably one of the most overpriced and touristy food spots in London. But do I still love it? Obviously. The whole place just has a vibe. The old ironwork, the hanging signs, the sheer amount of incredible food—there’s just something about it that makes it worth stopping by.

If you’re just grabbing a quick bite, I’d go for a classic sausage roll or one of the insane cheese toasties from Kappacasein—gooey, crispy, and absolutely worth the hype. If you’re in the mood for something different, there are also amazing curries, fresh seafood, and all sorts of international street food. Just be warned: it gets crazy busy, especially around lunchtime, so expect a bit of a wait.

Once you’ve eaten, take a few minutes to wander around the market—it’s actually a great spot for some photos, and if you’re a foodie, you’ll probably find yourself tempted to buy a bunch of snacks for later. But don’t linger too long because next up, we’re heading to one of the most historic spots in London: the Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge

From Borough Market, it’s just a short walk along the Thames to Tower Bridge—probably the most famous bridge in London and, let’s be honest, one of the most photogenic in the world. If you’ve ever seen a picture of London with a giant, castle-like bridge, this is it. A lot of people confuse it with London Bridge, but London Bridge is actually just a pretty basic-looking bridge.

You can walk across Tower Bridge for free, and I definitely recommend it. The views of the Thames, the Tower of London, and the city skyline are incredible. If you want to go all out, you can visit the Tower Bridge Exhibition, where you can walk across the glass-floored walkway and see the original Victorian engine rooms that used to lift the bridge. It costs around £12, but it’s a pretty cool experience if you have the time.

Also, fun fact—back in 1952, a double-decker bus actually jumped across the bridge when it started opening unexpectedly. The driver just hit the gas and made it to the other side. Absolutely wild.

My Ultimate 2 Days in London Itinerary – What I Loved & What I’d Do Next Time (2025)
Carae in front of the Tower Bridge, NOT the London Bridge!

Tower of London

And again, from Tower Bridge, it’s only a super short walk over to the Tower of London. I actually only visited for the first time a few years ago, which is ridiculous—I should have done it way earlier because it’s one of the best historical sites in London. With so many attractions in the city, I know it’s tough deciding what’s worth paying for, but trust me, this one is. If you’re only picking a few paid experiences, put this high on your list.

As you walk over from Tower Bridge, you’ll already see the Tower of London—or at least, you kind of will. It’s surrounded by a massive stone wall, so from the outside, you can only get a limited view. There’s a walkway leading around it where you can catch a glimpse and snap a decent photo, but if you’re here, you might as well go all in. I’d 100% recommend booking a tour, paying the £35, and getting to experience it properly.

Quick history rundown—the Tower of London was originally built as a fortress by the monarchy to show off their power, but over the centuries, it’s been used as a royal palace, a prison, an execution site, and even a secure vault for the Crown Jewels. And yes, those legendary jewels are still inside. The tour takes you up close to them, including the King’s crown, the scepter, and a bunch of other insane artifacts. Apparently, they’re valued somewhere between £1 and £6 billion, but obviously, with all that history, they’re completely priceless.

Sky Garden (Sunset Spot)

I have to say, I’m kind of proud of how well this London itinerary flows. You’ve been walking all day, and that’s exactly how I think a city should be explored. My dad always said the best way to see a city is on foot, and I fully stand by that. So keeping with that theme, it’s only about a 10-minute walk from the Tower of London to our final stop for day one—the Sky Garden.

Now, this isn’t some hidden gem. It has like 60,000 reviews on Google. But somehow, not enough people actually take advantage of it, which is wild because it’s one of the few free attractions in London. Yes, FREE. That alone makes it a must-do. Sky Garden is an observation deck set across three floors at the top of the Walkie Talkie building, with panoramic views, bars, restaurants, and a bunch of greenery inside, making it feel like a mini indoor jungle.

It’s also one of the best spots to catch the sunset in London. They close around 6 p.m. on weekdays and 9 p.m. on weekends, so if you time it right, you can watch the city light up as the sun goes down. But here’s the important part—you have to book a free ticket online in advance through their official website. You can’t just show up.

If you’re after something fancier, you could opt for The Shard instead, which offers a more exclusive (and pricey) experience. But honestly, Sky Garden is such a great free option that I’ve never felt the need to splurge.

My Ultimate 2 Days in London Itinerary – What I Loved & What I’d Do Next Time (2025)
View from the Sky Garden

Pub Dinner in Covent Garden

I know English food gets a lot of hate, especially from Americans, and I kind of get it. But there’s no way anyone can hate on a proper English pub, especially not a pub dinner in Covent Garden. Now, I’m not here to give you the most authentic, locals-only spot where Neil from accounting grabs a pint on a Thursday night. I’m here as a tourist, and I want the most beautiful, classic-looking pubs—the kind that make you stop for a photo, even if they’re a bit overpriced and packed with other tourists.

My go-tos in Covent Garden, which is one of the best areas in central London for a pub stop, are Crown & Anchor and The Harp. Both have that old-school, cozy British pub charm, serve up great beers, and offer all the classic pub food—fish and chips, pies, mushy peas, full English breakfasts, the whole lot.

That being said, these places can get really busy, and prices aren’t exactly budget-friendly. If you want a cheaper but still very British pub experience, Wetherspoons is always an option. It’s a chain of traditional pubs where everything is way more affordable. Some locations can be a bit hit-or-miss, but in London, The Crosse Keys and Hamilton Hall are solid choices. Great atmosphere, cheap pints, and a full English or pub dinner that won’t drain your wallet.

My Ultimate 2 Days in London Itinerary – What I Loved & What I’d Do Next Time (2025)
Fish n Chips at a London Pub

2 Days in London Itinerary: Day 2

Day one of this London itinerary was all about walking—hitting the biggest must-sees in central London, one after the other. Could you squeeze in even more, like the British Museum or the National Gallery? Sure. But let’s be real, we’ve only got two days, and this isn’t a speedrun. I’ll throw in some extra options at the end in case you want to swap things around.

Now, for day two, we’re venturing a little further out. Less walking, more hopping on the Tube to explore some of London’s best neighborhoods. And we’re kicking things off in one of the most iconic—Notting Hill.

Notting Hill & Portobello Market (Morning Stroll)

Notting Hill is hands down one of my favorite neighborhoods in London. There’s just something about the pastel-colored townhouses, cute cafés, and mix of posh and quirky that makes it such a fun place to wander. If you’ve ever seen the movie Notting Hill (or just spent too much time on Instagram), you already know what I mean. But beyond the picture-perfect streets, the real highlight here is Portobello Market—one of the most famous street markets in the world.

If you’re here on a Saturday, you’ll get the full experience. The market stretches for what feels like miles, packed with vintage clothes, antiques, fresh produce, and some really good street food. It’s chaotic, but in the best way. Even if you’re not planning to buy anything, just walking through it is an experience in itself. On weekdays, it’s much quieter, with fewer stalls open, but the antique shops and cafés along the road are still worth a look.

As we’re here in the morning, of course I’d be getting a coffee, and my go-to in the area is Butter Bakery. They make a really good flat white and have a cozy atmosphere as well. Definitely a great spot for colder days in London.

My Ultimate 2 Days in London Itinerary – What I Loved & What I’d Do Next Time (2025)
The Houses in Nottingham are so pretty!

Hyde Park & Kensington Palace

From Notting Hill, it’s just a short walk over to Hyde Park, and if there’s one park you should visit in London, this is it. It’s massive—one of the largest green spaces in the city—and I love how no matter the season, there’s always something going on. In summer, you’ll see people picnicking and sunbathing. In winter, there’s Winter Wonderland with Christmas markets and an ice rink. And all year round, you’ll find runners, cyclists, and locals just out for a stroll.

On the west side of the park is Kensington Palace, which is still an actual royal residence. Prince William and Kate live here, though obviously, you won’t be bumping into them in the hallways. You can, however, visit the public parts of the palace, including the King’s State Apartments and the Queen’s Gallery. I’ve been before, and while it’s not the most jaw-dropping palace ever, the history is really interesting—especially if you’re into the whole British monarchy thing.

If you’re not keen on paying for the tour, just walking through Kensington Gardens around the palace is still really nice. Plus, there’s a statue of Princess Diana, which was unveiled in 2021. Either way, it’s a great little break before heading into more of the city.

My Ultimate 2 Days in London Itinerary – What I Loved & What I’d Do Next Time (2025)

Natural History Museum

Alright, so one of the biggest reasons I always end up in this part of London—Kensington, Notting Hill—isn’t actually Kensington Palace or the markets. Don’t get me wrong, they’re great, but my number one highlight here is the Natural History Museum.

It’s on Exhibition Road, right next to the Science Museum and the Victoria & Albert Museum, and just around the corner from the Royal Albert Hall, where all the big-name artists perform. But let’s be real—the Natural History Museum is where it’s at. And the best part? It’s free.

You just walk in and get lost in rooms full of ancient fossils, giant skeletons, and all sorts of cool exhibits. If you’re traveling with kids, they’ll love it. But honestly, even if you’re not, it’s still a great way to kill a few hours.

Only catch—just like the Sky Garden, it’s free, but you have to book a ticket online in advance. It’s an extra step, but trust me, totally worth it.

My Ultimate 2 Days in London Itinerary – What I Loved & What I’d Do Next Time (2025)

Camden Town & Camden Market

Alright, Camden is a bit out of the way from where you are now, but I still think it’s worth it. It’s only about 30 minutes on the Tube, and honestly, I never skip it when I’m in London. It’s got such a unique energy—grungy, a little chaotic, but in the best way.

Camden Market is the main reason to visit. It’s super unique, with some of the best street food in London. I’m talking about every cuisine you can imagine—bao buns, pad thai, burgers, falafel, fish and chips, the works. It’s also great for shopping if you’re into vintage clothes, vinyl, or just quirky, random finds.

To get there, take the Circle or District Line to Embankment, then switch to the Northern Line up to Camden. Super easy. Once you’re there, just wander. The high street is packed with colorful shopfronts, there are plenty of cool little pubs, and if the weather’s good, grab your food and eat by Regent’s Canal. It’s the perfect way to spend an afternoon and one of the best things to do in London on the weekend.

Sabines Rooftop Bar at St. Paul’s Cathedral

Sabine’s Rooftop Bar is one of my favorite places to end a day in London. It’s right by St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the view of the dome from up here is ridiculous—in the best way. You know how some rooftop bars are all about the view but have overpriced, mediocre drinks? Not the case here. The cocktails are actually good, and while it’s not cheap, it’s not outrageously expensive either.

I came here on my last trip, and honestly, sitting outside with a drink in hand, looking at St. Paul’s all lit up, felt like one of those perfect “Wow, I’m really in London” moments. If you can, time it for sunset. The whole city starts glowing, and it’s just the best way to close out an epic two days in London.

West End Show or Piccadilly Circus Nightlife (If You’ve Got the Energy—I Usually Don’t)

If you still have the energy after a full day of exploring, you’ve got two solid options to wrap up the night—a West End show or checking out the nightlife around Piccadilly Circus.

Now, personally, I usually don’t. By the time I’ve made it to Sabine’s rooftop bar, I’m pretty much done. But if you’re still up for more, catching a show in London’s West End is an amazing way to end the trip. It’s like Broadway’s cooler British cousin, and you can usually find last-minute tickets at a decent price. If you’re into musicals, Les Misérables and The Lion King are classics, but there are always new productions to check out.

If a night out sounds better than sitting in a theater, Piccadilly Circus and Soho are where you want to be. It’s loud, it’s chaotic, and there are endless bars and pubs to hop between. Honestly, even if you just wander through and soak up the energy, it’s a fun way to see London at night. But if you’re like me and feel your feet giving up by this point, no shame in calling it a night after that rooftop cocktail.

My Ultimate 2 Days in London Itinerary – What I Loved & What I’d Do Next Time (2025)

Other Cool Things to do in on Your London 2 Day Itinerary

Of course, you can’t fit everything into just two days, and there’s so much more worth seeing. If you’ve got extra time (or just want to swap something out), here are some other awesome things to do in London.

  • Harry Potter Studio Tour – I was obsessed with this. If you even remotely like Harry Potter, it’s a must. You get to walk through the Great Hall, see all the sets, and even drink butterbeer. It’s outside of London in Watford, but absolutely worth the trip. Book your tickets early because they sell out fast.
  • Victoria & Albert Museum – This one always flies under the radar, but it’s hands down one of my favorite museums in London. It’s got everything from fashion and photography to sculptures and random historic artifacts. And like most museums in London, it’s free.
  • Thames River Cruise – If you want to give your legs a break but still do some sightseeing, hop on a Thames cruise. There are basic ferries (which are cheaper) or guided tours (which are a bit pricier). Either way, it’s a fun way to see the city from the water.
  • National Gallery & Trafalgar Square – The National Gallery is one of the best art museums in the world, and even if you’re not big on art, it’s free and has some incredible paintings. Trafalgar Square, right outside, is always buzzing, and it’s a great spot to just sit and people-watch. And while you’re there, you might as well head over to Leicester Square and maybe do some shopping.
  • British Museum – One of the most famous museums in London, and for good reason. It’s packed with artifacts from all over the world, including the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies. You could spend hours here (or just pop in to see the highlights). And yes, it’s also free.
My Ultimate 2 Days in London Itinerary – What I Loved & What I’d Do Next Time (2025)
I loved the Harry Potter Experience in London!

Get the London Pass for Your London in 2 Days Itinerary

I’ve mentioned it a few times already, but London is not a cheap city when it comes to sightseeing. Touring Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge—it all adds up fast. If you’re paying for everything individually, you’ll be dropping hundreds of dollars, which is honestly ridiculous.

That’s where the London Pass comes in. It’s a total game changer. A 2-day pass costs £104 (kids pay £54) and covers almost all the major attractions. You can also get it for just one day or stretch it up to ten days. It might sound pricey at first, but when you break it down—one flat fee for nearly all your activities—it’s actually a steal.

There’s even an option to upgrade to the London Pass Plus, which includes Madame Tussauds and the London Eye. But honestly, I never bother with those, so I stick with the regular pass.

If you’re planning to hit most of the big sights I’ve mentioned in this itinerary, getting the London Pass is a no-brainer.

How to Get Around in London

London’s public transport is insanely good. The Underground (aka the Tube) will get you pretty much anywhere, buses run constantly, and if all else fails, there’s always Uber or black cabs (though they’re pricey). But let’s break it down a bit.

The Tube – This is the fastest and easiest way to get around. Get yourself an Oyster card or just use contactless payment with your credit card—it works the same way. The daily fare cap means you’ll never spend more than a set amount, which is great because single tickets add up fast.

Buses – Slower than the Tube but great for short distances or if you want to sightsee while you ride. Bonus: they run all night, which the Tube doesn’t.

Walking – Central London is actually very walkable, and honestly, I prefer exploring on foot when possible. It’s the best way to soak up the city.

The Tube is also the best way to get from London Heathrow Airport to central London!

My Ultimate 2 Days in London Itinerary – What I Loved & What I’d Do Next Time (2025)
I know not many people agree but I am a sucker for a full english breakfast!

What to Pack for 2 Days in London

Packing for London is all about expecting the unexpected—especially when it comes to the weather. I never travel here without a light waterproof jacket because, no matter what the forecast says, there’s always a chance of rain. I don’t even bother with an umbrella most of the time; a good jacket does the job without the hassle.

Shoes are another big one. I’ve made the mistake of wearing cute but uncomfortable shoes in London before, and let’s just say, by midday, I was deeply regretting my life choices. Comfy sneakers or boots are the way to go because you’ll be walking a lot.

Since I’m out all day exploring, I always carry a good backpack—something comfortable and weather-resistant with plenty of space for essentials. I wrote a full backpack review recently, and honestly, having the right bag makes such a difference. It’s where I stash my power bank (an absolute must when using Google Maps and taking photos all day), a reusable water bottle (plenty of refill stations in the city), and my Oyster card or contactless credit card for easy transport.

Other than that, I keep it simple. A couple of easy-to-layer outfits, sunglasses if I’m feeling optimistic, and that’s about it. Worst case? London has a shop on every corner if I forget something.

Where to Stay in London for Your Two Day London Itinerary

London has every kind of accommodation you could think of—from ultra-luxury 5-star hotels that cost thousands per night to budget-friendly hostels perfect for backpackers. To make things easier, I’ve picked four options at different price points so you can find the perfect place to stay for your 2-day London trip.

💎 The Savoy (Luxury – $$$$)

If you’re going all out, The Savoy is the place to stay. This legendary 5-star hotel on the Strand has been hosting royalty, celebrities, and fancy people since 1889. Think afternoon tea, world-class service, and a prime location just minutes from Covent Garden. It’s not cheap, but if you want to do London in ultimate style, this is it.

My Ultimate 2 Days in London Itinerary – What I Loved & What I’d Do Next Time (2025)

✨ The Landmark London (High-End – $$$)

A slightly more “affordable” luxury option, The Landmark London in Marylebone is a stunning 5-star hotel with an incredible glass-roofed atrium. The rooms are huge (which is rare for London), and it’s close to Baker Street and Regent’s Park. If you want classic British elegance without the Savoy price tag, this is a great pick.

My Ultimate 2 Days in London Itinerary – What I Loved & What I’d Do Next Time (2025)

💰 Sidney Hotel London Victoria (Mid-Range – $$)

For something more budget-friendly but still comfortable, Sidney Hotel London Victoria is a solid choice. It’s a no-frills but clean and well-located hotel near Victoria Station, which makes getting around super easy. Rooms are small, but if you just need a place to sleep while exploring the city, it does the job well.

My Ultimate 2 Days in London Itinerary – What I Loved & What I’d Do Next Time (2025)

🎒 Wombat’s City Hostel (Budget – $)

If you’re on a serious budget or just love the hostel vibe, Wombat’s City Hostel is one of the best in London. It’s clean, has a great social atmosphere, and is in a prime location near Tower Bridge. Plus, the beds have privacy curtains, and there’s even a bar downstairs. Perfect for solo travelers or anyone looking to save money on accommodation and for a short weekend trip in London.

My Ultimate 2 Days in London Itinerary – What I Loved & What I’d Do Next Time (2025)

Where to Eat during Your 2 Day London Itinerary

London’s food scene is next level—right up there with New York in terms of variety, quality, and just sheer number of options. You’ve got everything from Michelin-starred fine dining to hole-in-the-wall spots serving some of the best food you’ll ever eat. But let’s be real, when you’re exploring a city for just two days, you’re not sitting down for a three-course meal three times a day. You need quick, solid options that don’t slow you down.

For something cheap and easy, Greggs is my go-to. A sausage roll, a cheese-and-bean melt—whatever you grab, it’s hot, satisfying, and costs next to nothing. If you’re after a classic English pub meal but don’t want to spend too much, Wetherspoons is always an option. Yeah, it’s a chain, but the food is solid, the beer is cheap, and the vibe depends on the location (some are really nice, some… not so much). Just Google “Wetherspoons near me,” and you’ll find one.

For a proper sit-down brunch, I always head to Kozzee in Soho. It’s cozy, the coffee is spot on (their flat whites are elite), and the food is exactly what you want from a brunch spot. I usually go for the avocado toast or eggs Benedict, but their full English is also top-tier.

If you want a more upscale but still authentically British experience, The Devonshire in Soho is the place. It’s classic pub food but leveled up—think perfectly cooked scallops, an unreal steak, and a proper cozy atmosphere. It’s pricey, and you will need to book in advance, but if you want a really nice dinner, this is it.

That said, I’ve packed this itinerary with markets and street food spots, so you’ll have plenty of chances to grab something on the go. Honestly, just eat whenever and wherever you can—it’s London, you won’t run out of options.

FAQs About my 2 Days in London Itinerary

Can I do 2 Days in London on a budget?

Absolutely. London has a reputation for being expensive, but you can see and do a lot without spending a fortune. So many of the best attractions—Sky Garden, British Museum, Natural History Museum, and most other major museums—are completely free. You can grab cheap eats from Greggs or Wetherspoons, and if you want to visit multiple paid attractions, the London Pass will save you a ton of money. Also, stick to the Tube and buses with an Oyster Card instead of taking taxis.

What are things to do in London on a weekend?

A weekend in London can be as jam-packed or as chill as you want. If it’s your first time, focus on the most iconic London sights—Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and a stroll along the Thames. If you’re into markets and cool neighborhoods, Camden Market, Notting Hill, and Covent Garden are fun to explore. If you’re a foodie, London’s street food and pub scene are next level. And if you have the energy, a West End show or a rooftop bar is the perfect way to end the day.

How to spend 2 Days in London with family?

With family, you’ll want to balance sight seeing with fun, interactive stuff. Museums like the Natural History Museum and the Science Museum are great for kids. The Harry Potter Studio Tour is a must if you have any Potterheads in the family (or even if you don’t, to be honest). For classic sightseeing, a Thames River Cruise is an easy way to see the city without too much walking. Stick to a mix of big landmarks, some fun activities, and plenty of breaks—London is a lot to take in.

Final Thoughts On My Weekend Trip to London

London in two days is intense, but totally doable. You won’t see everything, but you’ll hit the biggest highlights and get a feel for the city. I love how walkable it is, how every neighborhood has a different vibe, and how there’s always something happening. Whether you’re into history, food, shopping, or just wandering around, London delivers. And even after multiple London trips, I still keep finding new places to check out—so if you don’t fit it all in this time, that just means you have a reason to come back.

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We are Oliver and Carae, the faces behind Girl on a Zebra. We set out to create a blog that brings a little bit of wild and a whole lot of adventure to our readers. We are throwing out the traditional influencer mold and instead, showing you the real, raw, and exotic side of travel.