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Short on time and trying to see the best of London? Things to see in London in 2 days might feel like a tall order, but with a smart plan, it’s totally doable.
This isn’t about cramming in every tourist spot. It’s about seeing what matters most and still enjoying the ride.
Two days isn’t long, but it’s enough to leave with solid memories and some great photos.
In this post, you’ll get a no-fuss plan for spending 48 hours in the city without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
Getting from the Airport to Central London
Your London adventure begins the moment you land.
The city is served by several airports, with Heathrow and Gatwick handling most international arrivals.
From Heathrow Airport:
- Heathrow Express: Reaches Paddington Station in just 15 minutes. Book early for fares as low as £10.
- Elizabeth Line: Takes about 30 minutes to Paddington with a few stops along the way, often cheaper than the Express.
From Gatwick Airport:
- Gatwick Express: Direct service to Victoria Station in approximately 30 minutes.
- Southern Railway: Makes several stops but costs less than the Express service.
Money-saving tip: Regular train services like the Piccadilly Line from Heathrow can save you money while still getting you into central London efficiently.
Where to Stay for Maximum Exploration
Choosing the right accommodation location can make or break your short London visit. For a two-day trip, staying central is key to maximizing your sightseeing time.
Consider these neighborhoods for your home base:
- Westminster
- Victoria
- Soho
- Covent Garden
- Marylebone
Look for places within walking distance of a Tube station to ensure easy access to London’s excellent public transportation system.
Options range from budget hostels to mid-range hotels and luxury accommodations.
For budget accommodations, check Hostelworld.
Mid-range options can be found on Booking.com, while luxury seekers might prefer Mr & Mrs Smith.
Navigating London Like a Local
London’s transportation system is comprehensive and user-friendly, making it perfect if you are planning a solo trip for the first time.
Key transport options:
- The Tube (London Underground): Fast and efficient for longer distances
- Red Double-Decker Buses: Scenic way to travel, especially from the top deck
- Walking: Many central attractions are surprisingly close together
- Payment: Use an Oyster Card or contactless payment card to tap in and out
Pro tip: Check Google Maps or the Citymapper app before setting out to find the fastest route to your next destination.
Day 1: Iconic Landmarks and Riverside Wonders
Morning: Historical Splendor
8:30 AM – St. Paul’s Cathedral Begin your day at St. Paul’s Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece with over 1,400 years of history.
Climb to the top of the dome for breathtaking views across London. Adult tickets cost around £20.50.
Budget alternative: Attend the free 5:00 PM Evensong service to experience the cathedral’s majestic interior without the entrance fee.
From St. Paul’s, walk toward the bustling heart of London’s entertainment district.
10:30 AM – Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square Wander through the bright lights of Piccadilly Circus, London’s answer to Times Square.
Continue to Leicester Square, home to major movie premieres and theaters.
11:15 AM – Covent Garden Stroll through Covent Garden, with its covered Apple Market filled with unique shops, street performers, and cafés.
This pedestrianized area is perfect for solo travelers to explore at their own pace.
Early Afternoon
12:30 PM – Trafalgar Square and National Gallery Head to Trafalgar Square to see the famous lion statues and Nelson’s Column.
Step inside the National Gallery to view masterpieces by Van Gogh, Monet, and da Vinci – and best of all, general admission is free!
2:00 PM – Big Ben and Houses of Parliament Walk toward the Thames to see two of London’s most iconic landmarks: Big Ben (officially the Elizabeth Tower) and the Houses of Parliament.
Cross Westminster Bridge for perfect photo opportunities.
Late Afternoon
3:00 PM – Tower of London Take the Tube to Tower Hill station to visit the Tower of London, a UNESCO World Heritage site with nearly a thousand years of history.
See the Crown Jewels and hear tales of intrigue from the Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters). Adult tickets cost around £33.60.
Evening:
6:00 PM – Borough Market Cross Tower Bridge and walk to Borough Market for dinner among London’s best food stalls. Try British classics or international cuisine from the many vendors.
7:30 PM – London Eye End your first day with a ride on the London Eye, especially magical as the sun sets and the city lights begin to twinkle. Book your tickets online in advance to avoid long lines.
9:00 PM – Traditional Pub Experience Find a classic British pub near your accommodation for a nightcap and reflect on your first day in London.
Check CAMRA’s WhatPub to find authentic pubs in your area.
Day 2: Parks, Palaces, and Culture
Morning: Royal Residences
9:00 AM – Hyde Park Stroll Begin your day with a peaceful walk through Hyde Park, one of London’s magnificent royal parks.
Rent a bike from Santander Cycles if you prefer to cover more ground.
10:30 AM – Kensington Palace Visit Kensington Palace, the current London residence of the Duke and Duchess of Wales.
Tour the State Rooms and learn about Queen Victoria, who was born here. Adult tickets cost approximately £25.40.
Summer alternative: If visiting between July and September, you might swap this for a tour of Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms, which are only open to the public during these months.
Afternoon
1:00 PM – Westminster Abbey Make your way to Westminster Abbey, the coronation church of British monarchs since 1066 and a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Adult tickets cost around £27.
Budget alternative: Attend the free 5:00 PM Evensong service instead.
3:00 PM – Choose Your Adventure
Pick one of these options based on your interests:
Option 1: Notting Hill and Portobello Road Explore the colorful houses and charming streets of Notting Hill, then browse the eclectic treasures at Portobello Road Market.
Option 2: Museum Trio in South Kensington Visit the free museums of South Kensington, including the Natural History Museum, Science Museum, and Victoria & Albert Museum.
Option 3: Shopping at Harrods Experience the luxury of Harrods, London’s most famous department store in Knightsbridge.
Evening: Entertainment
7:00 PM – West End Show: Cap off your London visit with a show in the famous West End theater district.
Book tickets in advance through London Theatre Direct or Today Tix for popular shows.
Alternative: Enjoy a dinner cruise on the Thames with City Cruises for views of London’s illuminated landmarks.
London Solo Trip Budget Breakdown
Here is a comprehensive table summarizing the estimated costs for a two-day London itinerary across different budget options:
| Expense Category | Budget Option | Mid-Range Option | Luxury Option |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (2 nights) | £6-£30 (hostel) | £134-£300 (3-star hotel) | £400+ (4-5 star hotel) |
| Transportation from Airport (round trip) | £6-£24 (public transport) | £50-£60 (express train) | £120-£160 (taxi) |
| Daily Public Transport (2 days) | £16.20 (daily cap zones 1-2) | £30 (including some zone 3-6) | £50+ (including taxis) |
| Major Attractions (average cost for 2 days) | £0 (free museums) | £40-£70 (paid attractions) | £100+ (with guided tours) |
| Meals (per day) | £20-£30 | £40-£60 | £80+ |
| Total Meals (2 days) | £40-£60 | £80-£120 | £160+ |
| Evening Entertainment (2 nights) | £0-£30 | £60-£120 (theater tickets) | £200+ (premium experiences) |
| Total Estimated Cost (2 days) | £62.20-£144.20 | £294-£510 | £810+ |
This table provides a detailed breakdown of costs for different aspects of your trip, helping you plan your budget more effectively.
Tips for Solo Travelers in London
- Safety First: London is generally safe for solo travelers, but always stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. The Metropolitan Police offers safety advice for visitors.
- Stay Connected: Get a local SIM card from providers like Giffgaff or Three or ensure your phone plan includes data for maps and emergency calls.
- Pack Smart: Bring comfortable walking shoes, a portable charger, and a lightweight rain jacket or umbrella regardless of the season. Check the Met Office for London weather forecasts.
- Mind the Rush Hour: Avoid using the Tube between 8:00-9:30 AM and 5:00-6:30 PM if possible, as it gets extremely crowded.
- Make Advance Bookings: For popular attractions like the London Eye and Tower of London, book timed entry tickets online to save time and sometimes money. Consider a London Pass if you plan to visit multiple paid attractions.
- Solo Dining: London has many counter-service restaurants and food markets that are perfect for solo diners. Apps like OpenTable and The Fork (formerly Bookatable) can help you find and book restaurants. Pubs also offer a welcoming atmosphere for those traveling alone.
Final Thoughts
London rewards the solo traveler with endless opportunities for discovery and personal adventure.
This two-day itinerary gives you a taste of the city’s highlights while allowing flexibility to follow your own interests.
The beauty of solo travel in London is that you can move at your own pace, change plans on a whim, and create a journey that’s uniquely yours.
Whether you’re captivated by royal history, world-class museums, urban parks, or culinary delights, London offers something special for every solo explorer.
And while two days can’t cover everything this magnificent city has to offer, it’s enough time to fall in love with London and start planning your return visit.
What will you discover on your London adventure?
