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London in 2 days: Itineraries for every type of visitor

London is a city where history meets modernity, with landmarks like the iconic Big Ben and the majestic Buckingham Palace. Explore its bustling streets and discover a blend of royal grandeur and contemporary charm.

Travel Logistics: The Simplified Way to Travel

  • Hop-on hop-off buses offer unlimited stops, letting you explore at your own pace.
  • Pre-planned routes ensure you don’t miss any must-see attractions.
  • Affordable compared to taxis and more convenient than public transport.
  • Choose from various ticket types, like the 48-hour pass, for flexibility.

Family Fun Seekers

Traveling with kids? London offers a treasure trove of family-friendly activities. From exploring the interactive exhibits at the Natural History Museum to a thrilling ride on the London Eye, your family adventure awaits.

Day 1

Hop-on Hop-off Dublin Phoenix Park

Morning (7am–11am)

Breakfast Spot: Kickstart your day at The Breakfast Club in Soho. This lively spot serves up hearty pancakes and fresh smoothies that the kids will love.

Attraction: Natural History Museum

Description: Discover the wonders of the natural world, from dinosaur skeletons to the shimmering minerals gallery.

Highlights:

  • Marvel at the iconic dinosaur skeletons in the grand entrance hall.
  • Explore the interactive science exhibits perfect for curious minds.
  • Visit the wildlife garden for a glimpse of nature in the city.

Pro Tip: Check out the museum's schedule for kid-friendly workshops and activities.

Suggested Time to Spend: 2 hours

Delicious Mexican burritos served during a food tasting tour in Dublin

Noon (12pm – 3pm)

Lunch Spot: Enjoy a family lunch at Pizza Express, where kids can create their own pizzas in a fun and friendly atmosphere.

Attraction: London Eye

Get a bird’s-eye view of London from this iconic Ferris wheel along the River Thames.

Highlights:

  • Enjoy panoramic views of London's skyline from the top.
  • Capture the perfect family photo with Big Ben in the background.
  • Experience a 4D cinema before your ride for added fun.

Pro Tip: Book tickets online to skip the queue and enjoy more time exploring.

Suggested Time to Spend: 1 hour

Dublinia during evening illuminated with lights

Evening (4pm – 7pm)

Attraction: Tower Bridge

Explore the iconic drawbridge with its glass-floored walkways and stunning views.

Highlights:

  • Walk on the glass floor and see the Thames below.
  • Visit the Victorian engine rooms to learn about the bridge's history.
  • Catch the bridge lifting for passing ships—a sight to behold.

Pro Tip: Try to time your visit to see the bridge lift for passing ships.

Suggested Time to Spend: 1 hour

Day 2

Raspberry Cheescake pastry being served in breakfast

Morning (7am – 11am)

Breakfast Spot: Start your day at Gail’s Bakery in South Kensington. The freshly baked pastries and coffee will fuel your morning adventures.

Attraction: Hyde Park

Description: Enjoy a leisurely stroll or rent a paddle boat on the Serpentine in this vast green oasis.

Highlights:

  • Rent a pedal boat on the Serpentine lake.
  • Visit the Diana Memorial Playground for a pirate ship adventure.
  • Relax with a picnic in one of the park's many serene spots.

Pro Tip: Bring a frisbee or ball for some fun family games on the open lawns.

Suggested Time to Spend: 2 hours

Inside National History of Natural Museum

Noon (12pm – 3pm)

Lunch Spot: Head to Borough Market for a vibrant lunch experience with diverse food stalls offering everything from gourmet burgers to exotic dishes.

Attraction: Tate Modern

Description: Explore contemporary art at this world-renowned museum housed in a former power station.

Highlights:

  • Discover modern masterpieces and thought-provoking installations.
  • Enjoy stunning views of the Thames from the top floor.
  • Participate in family workshops and interactive exhibits.

Pro Tip: Check the museum's website for free family tours and events.

Suggested Time to Spend: 2 hours

Pork Pizza with beer

Evening (4pm – 7pm)

Attraction: St. Paul's Cathedral

Description: Admire the stunning architecture and climb to the top for breathtaking city views.

Highlights:

  • Climb to the Whispering Gallery for an acoustic marvel.
  • Explore the crypt where famous figures are buried.
  • Enjoy panoramic views from the Golden Gallery.

Pro Tip: Visit in the late afternoon for fewer crowds and beautiful lighting.

Suggested Time to Spend: 1.5 hours

History Buffs

For those who love delving into the past, London is a treasure trove of history. From ancient Roman walls to the grandeur of the British Museum, there's plenty to explore and learn.

Day 1

National Gallery of Ireland exterior with Dublin Big Bus tour in foreground.

Morning (7am – 11am)

Breakfast Spot: Start your historical journey at The Wolseley, an iconic London café with a rich history and delicious breakfast options.

Attraction: British Museum

Description: Explore millennia of history and culture with treasures from around the world, including the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies.

Highlights:

  • Marvel at the Rosetta Stone, key to deciphering Egyptian hieroglyphs.
  • Explore the ancient Egyptian mummies and artifacts.
  • Discover the Parthenon sculptures from Ancient Greece.

Pro Tip: Join a guided tour for deeper insights into the museum's vast collection.

Suggested Time to Spend: 2 hours

Traditional Irish Stew

Noon (12pm – 3pm)

Lunch Spot: Dine at The Crypt Café, located in the atmospheric St Martin-in-the-Fields church, offering a unique historical setting.

Attraction: Tower of London

Description: Discover the history of this iconic fortress, once a royal palace and prison, now home to the Crown Jewels.

Highlights:

  • See the dazzling Crown Jewels up close.
  • Learn about the Tower's history as a royal palace and prison.
  • Join a Beefeater tour for intriguing tales and secrets.

Pro Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy a leisurely visit.

Suggested Time to Spend: 2 hours

The Hugh Lane Dublin City Gallery of Modern Art

Evening (4pm – 7pm)

Attraction: Westminster Abbey

Description: Visit the historic church where British monarchs are crowned and many notable figures are buried.

Highlights:

  • Admire the stunning Gothic architecture and stained glass windows.
  • Explore the tombs of famous figures like Isaac Newton and Charles Darwin.
  • Attend an Evensong service for a unique experience.

Pro Tip: Check the service schedule for a chance to hear the choir perform.

Suggested Time to Spend: 1.5 hours

Day 2

Merrion Square Park Dublin hop-on hop-off bus tour with view of historic Georgian buildings.

Morning (7am – 11am)

Breakfast Spot: Start your day at Regency Café, known for its classic English breakfast and retro vibe.

Attraction: Churchill War Rooms

Description: Explore the underground bunker where Winston Churchill directed WWII operations.

Highlights:

  • Walk through the secret corridors of Britain's wartime headquarters.
  • Discover Churchill's life and legacy through interactive exhibits.
  • See the original map rooms and war planning artifacts.

Pro Tip: Download the museum's app for an enhanced audio tour experience.

Suggested Time to Spend: 1.5 hours

Beef stew with seasonal irish vegetables

Noon (12pm – 3pm)

Lunch Spot: Enjoy lunch at the Café in the Crypt, offering a unique dining experience beneath St. Martin-in-the-Fields.

Attraction: Houses of Parliament

Description: Tour the iconic seat of the UK government, featuring the famous Big Ben clock tower.

Highlights:

  • Take a guided tour to learn about the UK's political history.
  • Admire the Gothic architecture and iconic clock tower.
  • Attend a debate or committee session for a unique experience.
  • Pro Tip: Book tickets in advance to secure a spot on a guided tour.

Suggested Time to Spend: 2 hours

Trinity college in Dublin at night

Evening (4pm – 7pm)

Attraction: The British Library

Description: Explore one of the world's largest libraries with treasures like the Magna Carta and Shakespeare's First Folio.

Highlights:

  • View the Magna Carta, a cornerstone of British law.
  • Explore the library's vast collection of historic manuscripts.
  • Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the reading rooms.

Pro Tip: Check the library's schedule for special exhibitions and events.

Suggested Time to Spend: 1.5 hours

Art and Culture Enthusiasts

Immerse yourself in London's vibrant art scene, from world-class galleries to cutting-edge street art. Discover the city's cultural treasures and be inspired at every turn.

Day 1

Visitors exploring interactive exhibits at Guinness Storehouse, Dublin, Ireland.

Morning (7am – 11am)

Breakfast Spot: Begin your cultural exploration at Sketch, an eclectic venue known for its quirky interiors and delightful breakfast options.

Attraction: Tate Britain

Description: Discover British art from 1500 to the present day, including works by Turner and Hockney.

Highlights:

  • Admire masterpieces by Turner and Constable.
  • Explore contemporary art exhibitions and installations.
  • Join a guided tour for insights into British art history.

Pro Tip: Check for temporary exhibitions showcasing emerging artists.

Suggested Time to Spend: 1.5 hours

Gourgeous Eggplant tower served in dish isolated on table top view of arabic breakfast

Noon (12pm – 3pm)

Lunch Spot: Dine at the Barbican Centre's restaurant, offering a modern menu in a unique cultural setting.

Attraction: Barbican Centre

Description: Explore this multi-arts venue, featuring exhibitions, concerts, and theatre performances.

Highlights:

  • Attend a live performance or concert in one of the UK's largest arts centres.
  • Explore the Barbican's art gallery and cinema.
  • Enjoy the tranquil Conservatory with its tropical plants.

Pro Tip: Check the schedule for free lunchtime concerts and events.

Suggested Time to Spend: 2 hours

Statue inside the Temple bar

Evening (4pm – 7pm)

National Gallery

Description: Discover masterpieces from the Renaissance to Impressionism in this world-renowned gallery.

Highlights:

  • Admire works by Van Gogh, Monet, and da Vinci.
  • Join a guided tour for expert insights into the collection.
  • Enjoy the stunning architecture and central location.

Pro Tip: Visit during the late opening on Fridays for a quieter experience.

Suggested Time to Spend: 1.5 hours

Day 2

Trinity College Campanile with tourists exploring the historic Dublin campus.

Morning (7am – 11am)

Breakfast Spot: Start your day at The Gallery Café, a charming spot with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.

Attraction: Victoria and Albert Museum

Description: Explore the world's largest museum of decorative arts and design, featuring over 2.3 million objects.

Highlights:

  • Discover fashion, furniture, and art from around the globe.
  • Visit the stunning Jewellery Gallery with its dazzling displays.
  • Participate in workshops and talks for a deeper understanding.

Pro Tip: Don't miss the exquisite Cast Courts and their impressive sculptures.

Suggested Time to Spend: 2 hours

Jameson Distillery Bow St. tour bus stop in Dublin, Ireland.

Noon (12pm – 3pm)

Lunch Spot: Enjoy lunch at the Serpentine Bar & Kitchen, offering lakeside views and a seasonal menu.

Attraction: Serpentine Galleries

Description: Explore contemporary art exhibitions in the heart of Hyde Park.

Highlights:

  • Discover cutting-edge art in the Serpentine's two galleries.
  • Enjoy the tranquil setting of Hyde Park while exploring art.
  • Attend artist talks and events for deeper insights.

Pro Tip: Check the gallery's schedule for free tours and special exhibitions.

Suggested Time to Spend: 1.5 hours

Howth Cliffs in Dublin with scenic coastal views and rugged landscape during sunset

Evening (4pm – 7pm)

Attraction: Saatchi Gallery

Description: Explore contemporary art in this renowned gallery, showcasing works by emerging artists.

Highlights:

  • Discover bold and innovative art in a modern setting.
  • Attend exhibitions featuring international artists.
  • Enjoy the gallery's location in the vibrant Chelsea area.

Pro Tip: Visit the gallery shop for unique art books and gifts.

Suggested Time to Spend: 1.5 hours

Alternate Stops to Customize Your Journey

  • Camden Market: Dive into eclectic stalls offering unique crafts, vintage finds, and global street food.
  • Kew Gardens: Explore the world's largest collection of living plants in this UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Hampton Court Palace: Step back in time at this magnificent Tudor palace with beautiful gardens and a maze.
  • Shoreditch Street Art: Discover vibrant street art in this trendy neighborhood, home to works by Banksy and more.
  • Greenwich Observatory: Stand on the Prime Meridian and explore the history of time and space at this iconic site.