Itineraries / London
3 Days in London: A First-Timer's Itinerary
London is large, but its best-known sights cluster along the river. This three-day plan starts in the east with the Tower and works west along the Thames, spends day two on museums, a market square and Westminster, and takes the river out to Greenwich on day three.
A few of the biggest stops are free, which helps the budget. Add any stop, or a whole day, to your trip with one tap.
Day 1: The river and the Tower
Start at the Tower of London when it opens, then follow the south bank of the river west. The whole route is walkable.
Tower of London
A royal fortress that is nearly a thousand years old, with the Crown Jewels inside. Book online, go early, and consider a Yeoman Warder tour for the stories. It is bigger than it looks from outside.
Tower Bridge
The Victorian bridge that most people mistake for London Bridge. Walking across is free, and there is a paid walkway high up with a glass floor. Either way, it is right next to the Tower.
Borough Market
One of London's oldest food markets, under railway arches near London Bridge. Go with an appetite and graze between stalls. Check the opening days before you go, they vary through the week.
Tate Modern
A modern art museum in a former power station. General entry is free. The viewing terrace on the top of the newer building looks over the city and is worth the trip up.
Day 2: Museums and royal London
The second day is indoors and outdoors in equal parts, ending at the river again with the view of Parliament.
British Museum
A huge free museum covering thousands of years of world history, including the Rosetta Stone and the Parthenon sculptures. Pick a few galleries rather than trying to see everything.
Covent Garden
A market hall and pedestrian piazza with street performers, shops and plenty of places to sit down for lunch. It is a short walk from the museum and on the way to Westminster.
Westminster Abbey
The church where royal coronations and weddings have taken place for centuries, with the tombs of kings, queens and poets. It is a working church, so check the opening days before you go.
Big Ben and Westminster Bridge
The clock tower and the Houses of Parliament are best seen from the bridge, with the river below. It is an easy last stop, and it looks good as the lights come on.
Day 3: Greenwich by river
Greenwich is a short trip down the Thames by river boat or on the DLR. The day is more relaxed than the first two.
Greenwich Market
A covered market with food stalls, crafts and small shops, a short walk from the pier. It is a good place for a late breakfast or an early lunch.
Cutty Sark
A 19th-century tea clipper, preserved in dry dock right beside the river. You can walk beneath the hull as well as on board, and the ship is a good stop for kids.
Royal Observatory Greenwich
The home of the Prime Meridian line, on top of the hill in Greenwich Park. There is a charge to enter the courtyard with the line, but the park view over London is free. Check ticket details before you go.
Sky Garden
A garden and viewing gallery at the top of a City skyscraper. Entry is free, but you need to reserve a slot ahead of time. Go around sunset for the best light over the river.
Common questions about London
Is 3 days enough for London?
Three days covers the main landmarks and one neighborhood outside the center. A fourth day gives you room for a west-end show, Kew Gardens or a park.
Which London sights are free?
The British Museum and Tate Modern are free to enter for general admission, and walking across Tower Bridge and along the South Bank costs nothing. The Tower of London and Westminster Abbey charge admission.
How do I pay for the Tube?
Tap a contactless card or phone at the gate, and the fare is worked out for you. There is no need to buy a paper ticket for most trips.
Plan it with your group
Jornada keeps the ideas, the days, the map and the shared costs for everyone coming on the trip. Start with this itinerary and change whatever you like.
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