Two days in London would feel like a whirlwind, however with some clever planning you can experience a great combination of the past, culture, food and local flavor. The itinerary is written in simple and friendly language and is designed in a manner that makes you feel like you are having a conversation with a travel savvy friend and not a guide. You can start and finish your visit without haste and you will be equipped with some valuable memories and a true sense of the city.
Day One: Classic Landmarks & Riverside Scenes
On the morning of the first day, come to London in a refreshed state and immerse into the most recognizable beginning of the city. Go directly to the Westminster district and sightsee sites like the Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament. These sites assist in putting into perspective the protracted narrative of London and its kingship, politics and the people. This is one of the best attractions according to the official visitor guide that can kick start your 48-hour journey.
At noon, turn around and head to the Thames River to have a lunch or light lunch by the intertribal river. Walk the South Bank with a glimpse of the river, bridges and modern buildings. Head to Tower Bridge and Tower of London. The spots blend tradition with a stretch of riverside in London that is most photogenic.
Take an elevator of views several times a day in the afternoon: look out, high up, either on a tower or an observation deck. Towards the evening, as the day turns, you will want to have a point of view on the city as the lights turn on. Then go to eat in the neighborhood, maybe in a contemporary restaurant overlooking the city.
To spend your evening, venture into the West End full of theatres or go on a leisurely stroll in the back towards the river with a snack or a glass of wine as the city glitters. The combination of landmark sightseeing, the river, and city life is gentle and has given your first day breadth and depth.
Day Two: Neighbourhood Charm & Local Flavours
Wake up early (well kind of) the second day and move slightly off tourist radar to have more local taste. Start with an interesting neighbourhood like Shoreditch or Camden where there is plenty of street art, markets, cafes and character. This London provides you with the contrast to the grand sceneries of Day One.
In the mid morning, think of going to a large gallery or museum. There is an abundance of free entry in many institutions in London and thus you will not have to worry about spending time in London. Then have lunch in one of the food venues of the city, maybe in a busy marketplace or a local cafe in an old neighborhood.
During the afternoon, go back to central London, and visit a royal park or a quiet green area, and rest your body and spend some time on your thoughts. Then, choose a shopping street, or an adorable boulevard to visit, have a tea or break in coffee and enjoy the sense of it all.
In the evening, choose a place to have dinner which seems a bit different, maybe a local treasure with personality. Then top off the night with something unique: a drink on the rooftop, a live music bar or just a walk through a well-lit neighbourhood and feel the vibrations of the city.
Practical Tips to Make the Most of Your Two Days
Select a place to stay near a large Tube or rail terminal. The central position saves on travelling time and provides more breathing room. Control your expectations: there is no way you can get all this in two days, but you can get quality and not quantity should you be selective. Take an Oyster-card or contactless payment to make life easier on the transport. Get a map or transport application to ensure that you are not scared of travelling around. Reserve a book in advance when you can particularly when you wish to go to a popular place or see a show. Light packing is a good idea, you will get around, switch places and probably walk more than you think.
In Conclusion
It does not mean that your 48 hours of stay in London have to be frantic. The city has the perfect blend of grandeur and neighbourhood in the streets and with careful planning you can experience the same. Start with the great symbols, palace, parliament, bridges, river and then turn into the life of the city: parks, markets, local cafes, side streets. So that when on such a brief visit you are not left behind with only pictures, but with memories of a city that embraced you into its beat. London is large, outspoken and rife with tales. You can only scratch the surface within two days, but you can scratch it in an interesting way. Savor the process, take a drink and look, you are in one of the world capitals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is two days in London enough?
Yes and no. Two days will offer you a good taste of what London has to offer as far as its high points and local character are concerned. You will not see it all but you will be able to walk away with the feeling that you have been able to experience something worthwhile instead of simply checking it off the list.
Which attractions should I prioritise?
Target presence of iconic experiences and spaces that connect these experiences. Monuments such as the Westminster, Tower Bridge, a museum, a beautiful neighbourhood and a good dinner go a long way. There is no better way to experience it than to balance up landmark hits with slow strolling, like the official guide implies.
When is the best time to explore?
Start early both mornings. The most desirable areas in London are less congested in the initial stages hence the smoother experience. Evenings: just choose one special place, instead of attempting to do it all.
How should I get around?
Take the Tube and buses in case you are comfortable and understand your stop. Sometimes walking through places of close view can be more revealing than transportation. A walk by the riverside or even a swift boat ride can be scenic.
What if I have just one day instead of two?
Focus on one half of the city: perhaps the traditional Westminster-South Bank-Tower. Stop at fewer places but spend time in every one of them instead of hurrying it all.
