Two Days in London Itinerary

After over 10 years of living in London, I know how to maximize your time during a brief stay. And now, as a Virtuoso travel advisor, I can really make your trip seamless for you and add my VIP perks and amenities. If you need help organizing your London trip, please book a complimentary vacation consultation. Just click the orange button below and submit your details and I will be in touch.

Day 1: Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and the South Bank

On Day 1 of your two days in London itinerary, you’ll explore the Tower of London along with many of the sites along the South Bank. All of these sites are clustered close to the River Thames. On a tube map, you’ll be exploring between Tower HIll tube station in the east and Westminster tube in the west. Let’s get started…

Tower of London and Beefeater Tour

Start your two days in London itinerary at the Tower of London, one of the city's most iconic landmarks. Arrive early to beat the crowds — I mean this very seriously — and join a guided tour led by a Beefeater, the ceremonial guardians of the tower. Their stories bring to life the history of this fortress, prison, and former royal palace. End your tour by riding the moving walkway past the crown jewels! (I’m not kidding…they really automate you through the room.)

Boat Ride on the Thames

The River Thames is next on the agenda. Take a boat ride from the pier right at the Tower of London. The ride provides views of London’s riverside landmarks, including Tower Bridge, City Hall, London Bridge, Shakespeare’s Globe, and the Tate Modern. The boat ride not only offers a relaxing break but also gives you a different perspective of the city’s skyline. Many boats provide entertaining commentary along the way. Pay attention as you are going along the Thames as you will walk back towards London Bridge later after riding the London Eye.

Westminster Abbey

After landing at Westminster Pier, walk over to Westminster Abbey. This magnificent church is steeped in over a thousand years of British history—it's the site of royal coronations and burials. Spend some time exploring the amazing architecture and the many memorials inside. Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, Geoffrey Chaucer, Charles Dickens, Lord Alfred Tennyson, and Winston Churchill are all buried here! (This is also where Kate and WIlliam got married!) The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben are here as well so it’s a great spot for some photo opportunities!

The London Eye

A short walk across the bridge from the Abbey, the London Eye awaits. This giant observation wheel provides fantastic views of the City, the Shard, and beyond. It’s a great place to capture photos and enjoy the panoramic views of the capital. The lines here can get long, so I recommend purchasing a ticket in advance. One spin around takes exactly 30 minutes.

South Bank Walk, Tate Modern, and Shakespeare's Globe

After your ride around the London Eye, walk east along the South Bank. Walking along the Thames is seriously one of my favorite things to do in London. As you stroll, you’ll pass by the Tate Modern, an art museum housed in a former power station. It’s free!! Although visiting the galleries is optional, the building itself is worth a look. Also, the gift shop inside is a great stop for souvenirs. Next, enjoy a look at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre—if time permits, a tour may pique your interest.

Borough Market

Stop by Borough Market, one of London’s most famous food markets. It’s located right under London Bridge. Here, you can pick from a variety of street food options, from gourmet sandwiches to fresh seafood, and all different types of international cuisines. Grab some food to eat at the market or find a nearby restaurant for a sit-down meal. Note that Borough Market is liveliest on the weekends but there is still a lot to enjoy during the week.

Evening Activity: Jack the Ripper Tour

Conclude your first day of this two days in London itinerary with an atmospheric Jack the Ripper tour of London’s East End. This guided walk takes you through the streets of Whitechapel, sharing eerie stories of the infamous murders that took place in the late 1800s. I really love this part of London — it is constantly changing — and this tour is such a fun way to experience it.

Day 2: Changing of The Guard and Kensington Palace

Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

Start your second day of your two days in London itinerary with a visit to Buckingham Palace for the Changing of the Guard ceremony. I recommend joining a guided tour so you can definitely get to all the best viewing points and learn about the pageantry. You’ll witness the soldiers in their distinctive uniforms with their bearskin hats!

Fortnum & Mason

After the ceremony, walk over to Fortnum & Mason. This historic department store offers a delightful food hall where you can enjoy a classic English breakfast or indulge in afternoon tea, depending on your preference. Explore the luxury goods and gourmet treats while you're there. This is definitely a great stop for some souvenirs! Definitely pick up some tea for your friends and family back home.

Kensington Palace

Hop in a taxi or take the tube to Kensington Palace, the official residence of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. (And the former residence of Princess Diana.) The palace features beautiful gardens and exhibits detailing the history of the royal family, showcasing their lives and belongings. Spend a few hours exploring the grounds and the rooms within the palace. Visit the iconic gates where thousands of Londoners left flowers after Princess Diana’s death.

Shopping Stop: Harrods

Hop back o the tube for a trip to Harrods, known for its luxury goods and impressive food hall. Even if shopping isn't on your agenda, the sheer scale and grandeur of Harrods make it a sight worth seeing. Enjoy wandering through the many departments and perhaps pick up some souvenirs or gourmet snacks. Honestly, I can spend hours in the food hall, going from one counter to the next. The people watching at Harrods is pretty amazing too!

Evening: Dinner and West End Show

As the day turns to evening, it’s time for dinner. Consider dining at Brasserie Zedel, close to the West End. I love this restaurant because it has food for all budgets and the service is fantastic. The ambiance here is lively and perfect for pre-show dining. (Yes the restaurant is downstairs. It may feel weird walking in but don’t let this put you off.)

After dinner, walk over to the West End for a theater performance. Check the current listings and choose a show that interests you. Consider asking your concierge for assistance with tickets.

Enjoy your last night in London and head into Soho for a nightcap after the theatre!

Where to Stay During Your Two Days in London Itinerary

If you only have two days in London, I really strongly recommend that you stay in a very centrally located property. Central in my definition means between Marble Arch in the west and St. Paul’s Cathedral in the east. Here are some of my favorite centrally located options, along with my VIP amenities. To book one of these properties through me, please book a complimentary vacation consultation here.

Kimpton Fitzroy: The Kimpton Fitzroy London in the heart of Bloomsbury, a vibrant and historic area known for its beautiful gardens and proximity to cultural landmarks. Overlooking the bustling Russell Square, the hotel is conveniently located just a short walk from the British Museum and the West End, making it an ideal base for exploring London. I am an IHG Luxury & Lifestyle advisor, which means I can VIP your stay. (And yes, you can still earn IHG points!)

Antidote Travel VIP Perks at the Kimpton Fitzroy

• Guaranteed 2:00 pm late check-out

• Breakfast included daily for two at hotel restaurant

• $100 USD value-added amenity

• Upgrade to next room category (subject to availability)

• Bottled water and fresh fruit / snacks in room upon arrival

Rosewood London: Located a short walk from Holborn tube station, Rosewood London offers an unparalleled location that provides easy access to the British Museum and Covent Garden. This is one of my favorite properties in all of London. I am a Rosewood Elite advisor, which means I can VIP your stay at this property, along with any other Rosewood property.

Antidote Travel VIP Perks at the Rosewood London

• Guaranteed upgrade at time of booking (based on availability)

• Daily Full American breakfast for up to two people per bedroom available via in-room dining or in the restaurant

• £85 food & beverage credit or spa credit

• Welcome note and amenity

Marriott County Hall: This hotel offers an unparalleled location along the vibrant South Bank of the River Thames, minutes away from iconic attractions such as the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and the London Eye. Guests can enjoy picturesque riverside strolls while soaking in the views of the city's historic architecture. Note I am a Marriott Preferred Partner and can VIP your stay. You can earn Bonvoy points while still taking advantage of my amenities.

Antidote Travel VIP Perks at the Marriott County Hall

• Welcome amenity

• Breakfast included daily for two at hotel restaurant

• $100 USD hotel credit

• Early Check-in/late Check-out, based on availability

• Priority for complimentary room upgrade (based on availability upon arrival)

Summary of Your Two Days in London Itinerary

So there you go…your perfect two days in London itinerary, hitting all the major highlights. Not sure this itinerary works for you? Book a complimentary vacation consultation and I will help you put together the best possible London stay. After living in London for over ten years, I know all the best tours, hotels, and restaurants. Check out my other London blog posts for more inspiration.

About Krista

I’m a Notre Dame grad and a Chicago Booth MBA based in Palm Beach, Florida. But I spent over 11 years living and working in London, England, selling financial data. My career and personal travel have taken me all over the world. To date, I’ve been to 78 countries. Now I bring the joy of travel to others at a Virtuoso travel advisor. Let me make your next vacation seamless for you.

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