London is full of history, architecture, museums, landmarks, and adventure and is a bucket list item for many travelers. Unfortunately, we often don’t have the time to visit and explore such a fascinating city to its fullest. If you only have a few days to visit, making the most of your time is important. Here is an easy and short sample three-day itinerary that can help you make the most of a short visit to London.
Day One:
In the early morning, visit the Tower of London to learn about the secrets and scandals of the court. Be sure to visit first thing to beat the crowds. Who wouldn’t want to see that famous execution block first thing!
Next head to the Tower Bridge. The Tower Bridge, often mistaken for London Bridge, was erected in 1954 and is one of the most popular attractions and landmarks in London. You will learn about the Victorian bascules and have some of the most impressive views over the River Thames.
A visit to London will not be complete without a tour at the official residence of Her Majesty the Queen. Take a peek of the grandiose palace state rooms, the Queen’s gallery and the tranquil gardens. Combine your Buckingham Palace tickets with the changing of guards to make the best of your time.
Shakespeare’s Globe is a reconstructed Elizabethan theater of one of the greatest playwrights — the Bard. You will see Shakespeare’s heritage and history and can take a behind the scenes tour of this open air theatre.
In the evening, take a scenic River Cruise down the Thames. You will be able to hop on and off at various points of interest along the river, or stay on for a full round trip. A stunning and beautiful sunset over the Thames shouldn’t be missed. You will pass by iconic buildings and monuments including Big Ben, the House of Parliament, the London Eye, and the Tower Bridge.
Day Two:
Spend the morning taking a bus tour of London. You will be able to jump on and off the bus tour when something catches your fancy! It’s an ideal way to explore the city and see many sites like Trafalgar Square and Westminster Abbey. There are over 60 stops and three routes around London that will let you see as much or as little as you like.
Mid-day, visit the secret headquarters and underground offices of Winston Churchill at the Churchill War Rooms. Visit his old bunker where you will learn first hand what life was like during World War II.
Spend the late afternoon at the London Bridge Experience. The scariest attraction in London offers an interactive way to learn about London’s grim and gruesome history. You will visit beneath the bridge and venture into the tombs below!
On your second evening, board one of the last remaining fighter ships, the HMS Belfast. Visit below deck to see what life was like for the navy during World War II and the Korean War. It’s a great way to learn about industrial engineering too.
Day Three:
Spend your last morning at Westminster Abbey. This Gothic church has been the coronation church of the royal family for over 900 years. It is also the burial ground of some of the world’s most renowned and famous writers and poets. Spend the morning walking around the gardens; have a sit in one of the old wooden pews and then stop to see the tomb of Sir Isaac Newton.
Mid-day, head to Kensington Palace, the childhood home of Queen Victoria, home to the late Princess Diana, and now home to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. Kensington Palace is without any doubt one of London’s most popular royal residences. It makes for a beautiful walk around the grounds and a perfect spot for afternoon tea.
Finish day three with a visit to the London Zoo. Over 12,000 animals and enclosures that include Tiger Territory, Butterfly Paradise, Penguin Beach, and Meet the Monkeys will make for the ideal way to end your London stay.
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