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You can spend months in London and still not even scratch the surface of the awesome things there are to do here. It’s one of my favorite cities, and as a Brit who has been here more times than I can count, I have my favorite spots. But if you only have limited time, here are the best ways to see London in a day.
Can you really see London in a day?
Honestly, you can still see a lot of London in a day. I definitely encourage more time – three or four days minimum. But if you’re tight on time or on a long layover there are still some great ways to enjoy it.
The trick with London is to group activities together not only by walking distance, but by how easy it is to reach by public transport. London is a classic “it doesn’t look that far on the map” city. So you don’t want to waste your precious time simply getting from one place to another.
Be strategic, and you might have to compromise on activities if they are on opposite sides of the city.
Getting around London
Depending on the activities you choose and the attractions that are “must do” for you, there are a couple of ways to get around. The first, if you’re lucky, is to be able to walk from place to place. If you’re not too picky about what you see, choose an area of London, and plan your day around it.
My advice is to make good use of the London Underground or buses. If you’re staying centrally you shouldn’t need to really leave Zones 1 and 2. Taking the Tube is the best way to see as much of London in a day as possible.
For that reason you can either pay as you go and there will be a daily cap limit of around £8 which includes zones 1 and 2, or purchase a day travel card with access to zones 1-4 for around £15.
Buses are slightly cheaper per ride – you can still make use of the pre-paid credit on your Oyster Card if you purchased one. Personally I prefer the Tube (underground train). It’s quicker, and typically more consistent.
The last option is to rent a bike. All around London you’ll see Santander bike stands. These bicycles are available to rent for up to 30 minute rides and for less than £2. Simply use the machine (or the app if you have it) and check out a bike. Return it to any other bicycle stand around the city within that time. Great for short distances.
How much will one day in London cost?
London is not known for being a cheap city. Another reason to balance high priced tourist attractions with free and budget options. There are dozens of free museums in London – some of the best in the country too. So if you want a really cheap one day in London, this is the way to go.
Other than the free museums, most tourist attractions will average out at around £20 per person for a ticket – but prices vary depending on popularity, and sometimes time of year.
Food can vary. Pubs are often the most reasonable for the amount of food you get, with most main meals around £10-15. All service café-style restaurants are a great way to save money for breakfast or lunch around £5-8.
You’ll see Pret a Manger almost everywhere – they have a good selection of sandwiches, hot foods and baked goods. And there’s the notorious “greasy spoon” cafes all around London serving fried Full English breakfast and cheap sandwiches.
TOP TIP: For really cheap food on the go, you can’t go wrong with the inner-city supermarkets. Tesco Express and Sainsbury’s are on most main streets and have cheap sandwiches, salads and snacks.
Planning London in a day
Trying to narrow down what you might want to do could be the hardest part of trying to see London in a day. Not to worry, I’m here to help. Grouping the activities into various categories you can find plenty of ideas here.
And to make it even easier, each activity with the same number can be combined to create your own “London in a day” itinerary. Summaries of each itinerary towards the end of this post. For example: All the number 3s can be combined to make one full day itinerary.
I’ve grouped together things that are either walkable, or easily reached by short transit journeys giving you a morning to evening full day of exploring this fabulous city.
MUSEUMS
1 – British Museum – COST: Free
You could spend all day in this museum alone if you had endless time in London. But likely if you’re reading this, you don’t. Still, the museum is a good place to spend a morning. Check out some of the historical artifacts from Egypt, China, Greece and other far away places as well as Roman Britain and other European treasures.
2 – The Clink Prison Museum – COST: £8
Torture, medieval history and true (but gruesome) stories. What more could you want in a museum? This is one of the oldest prisons in the country, dating back to the mid-12th Century. Guided tours are available if you want an even deeper look into the grisly history. Please note: Due to the historic nature of the building, The Clink is not accessible for those with mobility issues.
3 – Natural History Museum – COST: Free
One of my favorites since I was a kid – mostly because of the dinosaurs. This is a kids dream of a museum, and packs a punch for adults too. The building is impressively beautiful before you even start wandering through the endless rooms of specimens. Animals, plants, human evolution and the vastness of space are all things you can learn about here.
4 – Tate Modern – COST: Free
Many museums in London are focused on history. Which is why the Tate Modern art gallery is a breath of fresh air. Located on the South Bank, on the other side of the Millennium Bridge, Tate Modern features plenty of art that makes you go “Huh?”. From famous artists to ones you haven’t heard of, Tate Modern is an adventure.
5 – Sherlock Holmes Museum – COST: £16
Elementary indeed. For those who are familiar with British literature (or Benedict Cumberbatch’s IMDB profile) you’ll enjoy this quirky museum. Housed in Holmes’ infamous 221b Baker Street address, the museum is set up like the home of the fictional detective is described in the books. Read about his cases and see items from the 1800s era he was from.
HISTORICAL SITES
1 – Tower of London – COST: £30
An easily accessible castle even if you’re seeing London in a day. For almost 1000-years the Tower of London has stood in this spot. Wander through the prison cells, see the torture devices, meet the Beefeaters who look after the Ravens, and gawp at the priceless Crown Jewels.
2 – St Paul’s Cathedral – COST: £18-21
One of the most recognizable buildings in the city, St Paul’s Cathedral is as stunning as it is enormous. The site of the famous wedding of then Prince Charles and Diana in 1980, it has a history of almost 400 years. The Whispering Gallery is ornate and with impeccable views of the inside of the cathedral – check for opening before you arrive as it has been closed during Covid. TOP TIP: While it costs to enter most of the time, it is free if you’re attending a service and don’t want to take photos
3 – Kensington Palace – COST: £20; Afternoon tea £38 per person
The former home of Princess Diana, Kensington Palace is one of the top royal palaces you can visit in the city. Now home to the Prince and Princess of Wales, parts of it are open to the public on certain days. Learn about the childhood of Queen Victoria who was born here and finish off your visit with a royal Afternoon Tea in the Pavilion.
4 – Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre – COST: £19 for guided tours
While in London you can see a Shakespeare play in a reconstruction of his famous 1600s theater. But even if you’re on limited time the Globe Theatre cannot be missed. Guided tours are available and take about an hour. Otherwise you can go in and visit the Bard-themed gift shop on the second level. TOP TIP: While it costs for a guided tour, it is free to explore outside/non-theater interior
5 – Big Ben to Trafalgar Square – COST: Free
Some of London’s most infamous sights can be seen within a few city blocks. That will allow you to check off a few of your top picks in the space of an hour. From Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament you can see Westminster Abbey then head up along St James’ Park towards Buckingham Palace. Detour for a quick peek along Downing Street then walk down The Mall ending at Trafalgar Square where you will find the giant lions and Nelson’s Column. ADDITIONAL COSTS: Entry to Buckingham Palace state rooms, Westminster Abbey and Palace of Westminster all around £30 each.
SHOPPING
1 – Camden Town
Shopping in Camden is a fun experience. There are so many markets around here, including outdoor clothing stalls with affordable options, boutique shops at the Camden Lock and trend-setting stores mixed in with regular high street favorites. TOP TIP: Be on the lookout for some amazing Camden street art.
2 – Borough Market
One of the oldest markets in London is also one of the best in my opinion. Bustling, full of fabulous flavors and produce, it’s exactly what you expect when you hear market. While the majority of the shopping here is food related, there are some great local products and the venue itself if just spectacular.
3 – Portobello Road
Vintage clothing and antiques are the big ticket items along Portobello Road. The quaint independent stores are brought even more to life on Saturdays as the busiest street market day. Leave with more than you bargained for from this world famous market.
4 – Carnaby Street
Carnaby Street is the epitome of cool. Fashion, music, unique boutique stores and all minutes away from the best West End theaters. Pretty things come with pretty prices here, but you can find deals if you look hard enough. The visually appealing street is wonderful to visit even if you just end up window shopping.
5 – Oxford Street
London’s busiest high street, Oxford Street is a busy and bustling crowded place filled with all the popular stores. From British staple Mark’s & Spencer to cheap and cheerful Primark, Oxford Street has it all. There are market stalls dotted around selling souvenirs, and the street comes alive and bright at Christmas.
UNIQUE ACTIVITIES
1 – Jack The Ripper Walking Tour – COST: Around £15 per person
The Brits love a gruesome tale or two. Which is probably why the unsolved case of Jack The Ripper intrigues us. Follow a guide around the sites of the 6 murders from the late 1800s. Find out who his victims were and some possible theories on a suspect. Tours typically leave from Aldgate or Tower Hill Tube Stations. I recommend purchasing in advance, though some you can walk up and join.
2 – Harry Potter tour of London – COST: £15-20 per muggle
If you’re planning London in a day you likely won’t have time to make it to the Warner Bros Studio Tour of Harry Potter. Don’t be disappointed though. One of the best things for wannabe wizards in London is a Harry Potter walking tour. Meet your guide at Leadenhall Market and tour sites mentioned in the book and filming locations from the movies.
3 – Pretty houses of Notting Hill – COST: Free
I can’t guarantee you’ll run into Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts, but you’ll leave a little more in love with Notting Hill. This fanciful area of London is known for its vibrant and colorful buildings. St Luke’s Mews is one of the most popular streets, but I also recommend just taking a wander up and down the streets off Portobello Road and you can’t go wrong. Just remember to be respectful taking photos as these are people’s houses.
4 – See a West End show – COST: As low as £20 per person
The West End is to London as Broadway is to New York City. Serious play or side-splitting comedy, long running musical or quirky cabaret. Whatever your taste there’s something for everyone in the West End. If you’re picky as to what you want to see I suggest booking well in advance. If not, leave it up to fate and visit one of the ticket booths around Piccadilly/Leicester Square and you might get a good last minute deal.
5 – London Eye – COST: From £33 per person
This ain’t no ordinary ferris wheel. The London Eye is an experience that will give you a birdseye view of the city as far as you can see. Travel over 400 feet in the air in one of their custom pods on a 30-minute ride. Advance reservations are better for discounts and less waiting time.
FOOD AND DRINK IDEAS
1 – Darwin Brasserie at Sky Garden
This place is everything your Instagram feed needs and more. A top notch place to eat and incredible views over London from more than 30 floors up. Reserve free tickets for Sky Garden online in advance (they often sell out) but you won’t need one with a dining reservation.
2 – Borough Market
My absolute favorite place in London – always a must stop. I already mentioned it under shopping, but the food is actually the real star. Food stalls pack the market with lots of delicious food options. Go as a group, try different things and find a spot to sit and share. Don’t forget to grab some yummy baked goods to take home.
3 – Evans & Peel Detective Agency
Not as it seems, this is actually one of the best Speakeasy bars in the city. Make a reservation online, and you’ll get instructions for your visit. You might have to answer a couple of questions, but this US Prohibition-era style bar is worth the cloak and dagger to get in. Drinks are named after famous bootleggers and there’s often live music.
4 – Chinatown
Eat where you heart (and nose) lead you as there are so many options. London’s Chinatown is busy, but it’s a great place for some eastern cuisine. Visit a bakery or two for after dinner treats and the grocery stores have some unique imported snacks.
5 – A proper English pub
You can’t walk more than a few feet without finding a proper pub. It’s the best place to find a pie and mash, a good curry and some classic fish & chips all under one roof. And a pint in a pub should be on your list even if you’re trying to see London in a day. Whether you eat there or not, this is a must do.
London In A Day Itineraries
Read more on each idea above but here’s the quick and dirty on how to organize your day. Whatever you choose to see and do in London, it’s a great city and one with endless places to explore – both old and new. Grab a London Underground Map before you arrive to make it easier to get around.
London in a day – Itinerary 1
Head to the British Museum for opening time (10am). Spend the morning exploring the treasures on display before getting on the Northern Line (BLACK route) at Goodge Street.
Get off at Camden Town and walk Camden High street in search of good art and better shopping deals. Mid afternoon get back on the Northern Line (BLACK route) changing at Moorgate to the Circle Line.
Exit at Tower Hill for an afternoon of bloody history at the Tower of London. The Sky Garden is a short walk away and a great place for an early dinner before heading back to Tower Hill or Aldgate for your Jack The Ripper Tour.
London in a day – Itinerary 2
Start your day at St Paul’s Cathedral where you can see one of London’s greatest buildings. It’s about a 15 minute walk to Leadenhall market where your Tour For Muggles Harry Potter tour will begin – I would suggest the 11am tour. This will end you nicely at Borough Market for a late lunch.
At the market you can shop for amazing produce and goodies while sampling all the delicious food. It’s just another few minute walk to The Clink Prison Museum where you can end your afternoon before looking for dinner (if you have space after the market).
London in a day – Itinerary 3
I recommend arriving at the Natural History Museum at opening time of 10am (don’t worry the line moves quite quickly). You can find it just off South Kensington tube station. Spend a morning learning all about the natural world before getting back on the London Underground Circle & District Line (GREEN/YELLOW route) at the same place.
Take the train to Notting Hill Gate just a few stops away. Portobello Road is just a couple minutes walk away. Discover fun fashions and amazing antiques as well as pretty houses on the smaller streets.
Kensington Palace is 15 minutes walk away – explore the gardens, palace and enjoy a nice afternoon tea. For your evening drinks you’ll find Evans & Peel Detective Agency a couple minutes from Earl’s Court Tube station.
London in a day – Itinerary 4
Join a mid-morning guided tour of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, about 15-minutes walk from either Southwark or London Bridge Underground station. If you get off at London Bridge, you can walk through Borough Market on the way to find some breakfast.
After The Globe, it’s just a couple minutes to Tate Modern. Find lunch on the way and spend a couple of hours enjoying the unique art on display. Board the Bakerloo Line (BROWN route) at Waterloo Station, and get off at Oxford Circus.
Walking a few minutes you’ll reach Carnaby Street for some good shopping opportunities. It’s easiest to walk to Chinatown, maybe buying a cheap West End show ticket on the way for after dinner.
London in a day – Itinerary 5
Start the morning at The Sherlock Holmes Museum. It opens at 9:30am and is a couple minutes walk from Baker Street Tube Station on the Bakerloo Line (BROWN route). Walk towards Oxford Street for a little shopping and some lunch.
Embark the London Underground at Oxford Circus and take the Bakerloo Line (BROWN route) south to Waterloo Station. Here you’re just a couple minutes from The London Eye. Take a ride to see the sights up London from above.
Cross Westminster Bridge towards Big Ben and The Houses of Parliament. Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace and Downing Street are all within walking distance. End your day with a well deserved pub dinner and a pint of beer or two on nearby Whitehall.
Is it worth seeing London in a day?
One day is not a lot of time in a city this big, with so many fun places to visit. It can be done, but you will feel a little rushed, I’m not going to lie.
If you have a longer layover, or you’re using London as a transit city to other places in the UK, you will get to experience some of this incredible city. Perhaps seeing London in a day will encourage you to come back another time.
I never tire of visiting London, and can always find something new to do alongside my obligatory visit to the Borough Market. My best advice is try not to cram too much in if you only have one day. Pick an area and stick to it, or find places that can easily link to others via transportation. Whatever you choose to do, I’m sure you’ll have a blast.
If you’ve enjoyed this post leave a comment or share using the social media buttons below. What would do first if you had to see London in a day?
Great list!
I was meant to visit London in 2020, but I think we all know what happened!! 🙁
Saving this post for when I finally make it to London!
London has so much to do! We had just a taste on a long layover!
Perfect post for people visiting London.
I am always looking for the new thing to do instead of repeating old tours in London. Great ideas (as always)!
I whole-heartedly agree with you – there is so much to see and do in London. I lived there for 15 years and still didn’t get round to seeing some parts (my laziness mainly though!). As you say, plan your time as a map can be deceptive on how huge the city is.
I love your curated itineraries; they combine museums and a mixture of types of sites that give a real insight into that part of London and history in general. I’m defo using these lists for my next trip to London
I had forgotten that several of the big museums are free to enter (note to self to get there sometime soon!) and that just strolling the streets and markets is a visionary delight in itself, (something I adore doing).
Great tips on how to eat inexpensively and using the takeaway section of supermarkets is a great idea.
Wow, this article makes me miss London so much! And what a great idea to provide several specific itineraries for one day. This would be great for anyone with a long layover or on a business trip.
I’ve always wanted to walk the streets of Notting Hill (huge Julia Roberts fan!) I love that you lay out the options above in more detail to mix and match if you want. But since I’ve never seen anything in itinerary 4 that sounds perfect! Haha It’s crazy how much there is to do in London
Wow. Certainly there are so many fantastic things to London, that you can’t even begin to scratch the surface in a day! (But you can try..)
I miss London! there are so many things to see and do! I love the options you provided so anyone can find their own perfect itinerary.
What a fab guide! Deffo need more time than just a day but I love all the places you mention! I’ll be pinning this for when I visit the city again.
You’re right…with all of these places to see 1 day definitely isn’t enough. But if I only had a day I’d pick itinerary #3. Knotting Hill would be fun to see the colored buildings and tea at Kensington Palace would be a fun thing to do. Great guide with lots of helpful information
I’ll take itineraries 3 and 4, please 🙋♀️
I love London! Love the free museums, love the colourful street art, love the diverse population and neighbourhoods. One of my favourite cities and now I want to go back 🙂
I agree with you, one of the biggest advantages of exploring London is its walkable areas and the distances become manageable. It’s a huge city but luckily it can be broken up into smaller areas for exploring that often provide interesting and numerous points of interests along the way. One of my favourite day outs is a trip to Greenwich from Bank via Island Gardens, then do the walk under the tunnel and enjoy a picnic at the park on the other end. The ride back on the DLR to Bank through the Canary Wharf area is stunning.
Carolin
Having just left London, I used your guide and followed some of your best tips- about how to get around the city and the museums. especially which ones were free and not. It came at the most perfect time.
It is always good to read about London and discover in other people’s articles new places to visit. The city and its surroundings have so much to offer! Thanks for sharing
Loved the mini individualized London itineraries! London is amazing and even with studying abroad there for 4 months, and going back there for 8 days earlier this year, there’s still so much to see and do. There’s something new to explore and do, so the more time you have here, the better!