3 days in London

written by INSIDR Team October 13, 2022

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3 days in London is going to be special. But with relatively little time when you visit London, you are going to need to plan to perfection! Each year London welcomes around 20 million visitors from all around the globe. With so many things to see and do, it’s easy to see why it’s so popular with tourists. And it’s also why just 3 days in London will probably require another visit, but let’s do our best to get as much in as possible! If you’re looking for an itinerary for 3 days in London, you’ve come to the right place. Here, we’ll guide you on what to do across 3 days in London.

There’s the famous pristine London that everybody knows and loves, which you’ll find towards the west. If you head a little north, you’ll discover a grungier London that’s deeply embedded in Britain’s music history. Or head east and discover London’s creative side, overflowing with trendy bars, restaurants and independent stores. For the mathematicians among you, that’s three directions for 3 days in London 😉

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3 Days in London: West London’s Biggest Attractions

Inner West London is London’s most pristine neighbourhood. The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, for example, is where you’ll find those gorgeous white houses with big terraces, black and white tiling and colourful front doors. It’s also one of the wealthiest areas of London. Therefore it’s no surprise that you’ll also find Buckingham Palace, Kensington Palace and several Royal Gardens in the area. Take the day to explore the best of what West London has offer.

3 Days in London: North London’s shopping and parks

Found in inner-North London, Camden has an alternative vibe and is also famous for its buzzing markets, canal-side bars, popular gig venues and street performers. Camden has a reputation as the grunge and punk capital of London and tourists flock to the area every year to discover this alternative side of London. A little further north you’ll find the beautiful area of Hampstead. As soon as you arrive you’ll be instantly transported to what feels like a quaint English countryside village.

3 Days in London: London’s trendy East End

As well as being close to some of London’s biggest attractions like London and Tower Bridge, East London is also home to the trendiest parts of the city. Shoreditch, Dalston and Hackney have all become the home of London’s creative class. It’s where you’ll find the coolest bars and restaurants, and the best coffee and brunches in London.

3 Days in London: Day One Recommendations

Start your first of 3 days in London at Buckingham Palace where every other day, you’ll be able to see the Changing the Guard. It starts at 10:45am and lasts for about 45 minutes. Afterwards, head next door to St James’s Park – one of London’s Royal Parks. If the sun is out then pull up a deck chair (£1.80 p/hr), watch the squirrels run around and enjoy the beautiful and relaxing scenery.

Then make your way towards the river to see the famous Big Ben and Houses of Parliament. Here you can either take a tour inside or simply admire the view from out front. Be sure to stop at Westminster Abbey too to add a holy touch to your 3 days in London. This 700 year-old church is steeped in some of London’s greatest history and it’s absolutely stunning inside.

In the evening it’s time to head over to London’s West End, famous for its many theatres. There are hundreds of restaurants to choose from in and around Leicester Square. It would probably take more than your entire 3 days in London to try them all, but you can always try! Be sure to also stop into London’s oldest wine bar – Gordon’s Wine Bar – before the calling it a night. Found in an underground cave, this historic wine bar also serves some delicious cheese boards and snacks.

Where to stay for your first night

What to eat on your first day

Recommended tours & activities for your first day

3 Days in London: Day Two Recommendations

Start the second of your 3 days in London at Kings Cross – an area going through a huge regeneration. See the beautiful St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel, do some shopping and enjoy a nice brunch at Granary Square. Harry Potter fans will be excited to find the secret entrance to platform 9 and 3/4, along with a little Harry Potter shop on the first floor of Kings Cross station.

From Kings Cross and Granary Square, walk along the canal until you get to London’s biggest market – Camden Market. Open 7 days a week, there are over 1,000 stalls to explore. It’s a must-visit at some point across your 3 days in London. Fashion, music and food are at the core of this alternative area of London. If you get hungry, enjoy a bite to eat from one of the many delicious street food vendors.

To see another side of north London, head towards Hampstead. Here you’ll find a relaxing village vibe in the heart of London. Stroll the hilly streets for a spot of shopping or relax with tea and scone, and watch the world go by. To escape the city, go to Hampstead Heath park where you can even swim in some of the ponds! Then finish the evening with dinner and a film at Everyman Cinema before preparing yourself for the final of your 3 days in London.

Where to stay for your second night

What to eat on your second day

Recommended tours & activities for your second day

Day three in London

3 days in London: Day 3 Recommendations

London Bridge is a perfect starting point for the final of your 3 days in London. The bridge serves as good starting point for a scenic southbank river walk to see some of London’s most popular tourist spots. Tower Bridge, the Tower of London and the Shard can be found to the east. Walk west to discover the Tate Modern museum, Shakespeare’s Globe and the charming streets of Southwark. Be sure to pop into the world-famous Borough Market for a morning coffee or some lunch too!

In the afternoon, cross the river and head into what Londoners call ‘the City’ – London’s finance district. Here you’ll find a relatively new building nicknamed the ‘Walkie Talkie’, owing to its shape. On the 43rd floor there’s a Sky Garden – three floors of public garden space with 360 degree views of London. The best part is that it’s free! Just remember to book online beforehand. This would be a nice way to round off your 3 days in London.

In the evening, walk over to the creative hub of London in Shoreditch. It’s home to more trendy restaurants and bars than you could possibly count. Brick Lane is also famous for its curry houses that line the busy street. Be sure to barter with the waiter outside to get a discount or a free bottle of wine before agreeing to a table. It’s all a part of 3 days in London experience when you hit up Brick Lane!