London's electric atmosphere is unlike anywhere else in the world. It's bursting with history, is a cultural melting pot and has countless fun things to do making it an ideal trip for a couple of days. But, of course, London is known for its sprawling size, so if you are limited with your time on your weekend in London, our blog will help you plan ahead and make sure you don't miss any of the highlights. So don't be put off booking your flight if you've only got 2 days because our London guide is here to help.
- The most asked questions about spending 2 days in London
- What to do on day 1 in London
- What to do on day 2 in London
2 Days in London: What People Ask
Is London good to visit?
Absolutely! While London can be bustling, that’s part of its charm. The city is a cultural melting pot, offering something for everyone—from world-class museums and historic landmarks to great nightlife and tranquil parks. Whether you're snapping selfies at Big Ben or watching Wicked on the West End, or wandering through quirky markets, London’s magic is undeniable.
Are two days in London enough?
Two days is enough to see the highlights, but don’t expect to cover everything! With good planning, you can visit top spots like:
- Buckingham Palace
- The British Museum
- Tower Bridge
- The London Eye
Leave some time for hidden gems, a bit of shopping, and an obligatory afternoon tea at Claridge's.
What's the weather like in London?
Unpredictable! London’s weather is famous for its mood swings, so pack layers and bring a brolly. That said, it’s rarely extreme—winters are mild, and summers aren’t scorching. A drizzle or two is par for the course, but Londoners don’t let it slow them down, and neither should you!
Is London good for the weekend?
Definitely! London is amazing for a weekend. You can pack in iconic sights during the day, enjoy a fantastic dinner in one of its many Michelin-starred restaurants, and finish the evening with live music, a West End show, or a cheeky drink in Soho.
Is London a walkable city?
Yes, central London is very walkable, with many landmarks just a short stroll apart. However, the city is vast, so you’ll want to hop on the Underground, buses, or even hire a bike for longer distances. The Tube is an experience in itself—just remember to “mind the gap!”
When’s the best time to visit London?
London shines all year round, but for mild weather and fewer crowds, visit in spring (April to June) or early autumn (September to October). Key events during the year include:
- London Fashion Week in February and September for fashionistas
- The Chelsea Flower Show in May for garden lovers
- Notting Hill Carnival in August for a riot of colour and music
- Christmas in London, from November to December, when the city transforms with some of the country's best Christmas lights, markets, and ice skating rinks
What are the best museums in London?
London’s museums are world-renowned, and the best part? Many are completely free making them one of the best things to do if you're spending 2 days in London on a budget! Here are a few favourites to add to your list:
- The British Museum: Home to treasures from every corner of the globe, including the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies. It’s an absolute must.
- The Natural History Museum: A hit with families, this iconic London museum is famous for its dinosaur skeletons, interactive exhibits, and stunning architecture.
- The V&A (Victoria and Albert Museum): Perfect for design lovers, showcasing everything from fashion to furniture and photography.
- The Science Museum: Interactive and exciting, this is one for curious minds of all ages.
- The Museum of London Docklands: Explore the fascinating history of London’s docks, from trade and slavery to the regeneration of Canary Wharf.
- The Imperial War Museum: A thought-provoking look at conflict, featuring incredible exhibits on World War history and beyond.
Convinced to spend 2 days in London yet? Let’s dive into what to do over two days in London England.
What to do on Day 1 in London
Morning: Have a Fry Up at Terry's
158 Great Suffolk St, London SE1 0DT
There's no better way to kick off your 2 days in London than with a hearty English breakfast at a local eatery like Terry's Cafe London. At Terry's, you can choose from a range of classic English fry-ups like:
- The Works
- The Hamlet
- The Vegan
- The Blowout
Although English fry-ups usually contain sausages, bacon, black pudding and many other meats, vegans and vegetarians will also be spoiled for delicious meat-free breakfasts at Terry's, making it a great choice if you're visiting London with your friends or family and have lots of different tastes to appease.
Explore Kyoto Gardens in Holland Park
Holland Park, Holland Park Ave, London W11 4UA
Hop on the Tube and make your way to Kyoto Gardens, an idyllic Japanese garden tucked away in Holland Park. This peaceful oasis, complete with koi ponds and tiered waterfalls, is a lovely escape from the city buzz.
Afternoon: Discover Westminster and the Thames
Next up is Westminster, where you'll find some of London's most iconic landmarks. Start with a visit to the historic Westminster Abbey, where numerous royal ceremonies have taken place like the marriage of Harry and Meghan and Kate and Wills. Then, walk along the Thames, taking in the views of the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben (now officially known as the Elizabeth Tower).
Cross the River to the South Bank
Cross the river using the Westminster Bridge or the Golden Jubilee Bridge to reach the South Bank. Here, you can explore the Southbank Centre which hosts art exhibitions and live performances year-round. When you're in the area, take a ride on the famous London Eye for panoramic views of the city if time permits.
Have Lunch at Borough Market
London SE1 9AL
By now, you've surely worked up an appetite. A surefire win for places to eat is the Borough Market for lunch, a foodie's paradise offering a diverse range of food from around the world. Thanks to the abundance of choice, you can easily try out a bunch of different food spanning:
- Gourmet sandwiches
- Fresh seafood wraps
- Handmade cakes and pastries
- Cured meats
Visiting this bustling London food market is an amazing choice when travelling in a group as there's something for everyone - even the picky eaters in the group.
Visit The British Museum
After lunch, head to the British Museum houses an incredible collection of art and artefacts from across the globe, including the Rosetta Stone.
Bargain Hunt at Portobello Road Market and Primrose Hill
Spend the afternoon wandering Portobello Road Market, famed for its antiques, vintage clothing, and delicious street food. From here, head over to Primrose Hill, where you can soak in sweeping views of the London skyline.
Stroll Through Hyde Park
After your jaunt around London's best museums, take a relaxing stroll through Hyde Park. This expansive green space is perfect for a leisurely walk, a boat ride on the Serpentine Lake, or simply enjoying a moment of tranquillity in the heart of the city. London is normally blessed with warm summers so time your trip accordingly if you want to really soak up London's park culture.
Evening: Enjoy Dinner in SOHO
By evening, you'll have surely worked up an appetite. For dinner, venture into Soho or Covent Garden, two lively London neighbourhoods with plenty of great places for dinner. Take your pick from:
- Cosy British pubs
- World-class international cuisine
- Innovative street food
Catch a West End Show
What better way to finish of the evening than by watching a show on London's famous West End?London's West End is renowned for its world-class shows like:
- Moulin Rouge
- Les Misérables
- The Book of Mormon
- MJ the Musical
- Abba Voyage
- Wicked
So whatever your taste in musicals, you'll be sure to find one that suits you and your group. Not into musicals? Why not watch a comedy show, hit the club or take a cruise up the Thames?
What to do on day 2 in London
Morning: Enjoy Breakfast (or Brunch) at a Quirky Café
Kickstart the second day of your 2 days in London with breakfast (or brunch, depending on how late you stayed up the night before) at one of London's quirky cafes. With so much competition, London cafés really go the extra mile to stand out from the crowd. Places like Antipodea near Kew Gardens serve Aussie-style breakfasts with fresh juices and amazing coffee. Make sure you book ahead though as this place is a real hit with locals and tourists alike.
Visit the Tower of London
London EC3N 4AB
After breakfast, make your way to the Tower of London. This historic fortress on the banks of the Thames has a fascinating history, including being a royal palace, a prison, and a treasury. Inside, you can see the breathtaking Crown Jewels and learn all about the legendary ravens.
Cross Tower Bridge
After your visit to the Tower of London, stroll across the iconic Tower Bridge to be rewarded with stunning views of the river and the city skyline and get some pics for the gram.
Refuel at Beigel, Shoreditch
159 Brick Ln, London E1 6SB
Now, it's time to see a different side of the city. Take the tube to Shoreditch and have a pick-me-up at Beigel where you can enjoy world-famous bagels at very affordable prices (and trust me, you're going to want to save your pennies for your dinner). It was Beigel that first brought rainbow bagels to the UK, so if you're somewhat of a bagel connoisseur, you'll have to pay a visit,
Afternoon: Explore Shoreditch
In the afternoon, we recommend heading to Shoreditch, where you can go vintage shopping, stroll around flea markets and try some great street food. Make sure to visit Brick Lane to see the ever-changing graffiti and murals. Shoreditch is also a hub for creativity, so there's a good chance you'll come across some interesting galleries showcasing contemporary art and design that are bound to excite any art lover.
Enjoy Afternoon Tea at Claridge’s
Brook St, London W1K 4HR
Now it's time to get your glad rags on and mind your Ps&Qs for a quintessentially British afternoon tea at Claridge’s. This five-star establishment in Mayfair offers an elegant setting where you can enjoy a selection of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream, and delicate pastries—all paired with premium teas or a glass of champagne for extra flair. It's the perfect way to relax and treat yourself during your London getaway.
Explore Dalston Kingsland
Once refreshed, hop on the Overground to Dalston Kingsland, a vibrant area in East London. Known for its eclectic vibe, you'll find quirky boutiques, independent coffee shops, and an unmistakable creative energy. Stroll through the Dalston Eastern Curve Garden, a peaceful green oasis amidst the urban buzz. If you're a fan of vintage shopping, Dalston won't disappoint, with stores offering unique finds and treasures.
Evening: Dinner at The Ritz
150 Piccadilly, London W1J 9BR
For your last dinner during your 2 days in London, splash out on fine dining at The Ritz, one of London's best luxury hotels. At the Ritz, you will be wined and dined like royalty during this Michelin-star experience served by the esteemed Executive Chef, John Williams MBE. If you've got a special occasion like a:
- Milestone birthday
- Graduation
- Engagement
There's really no better place to be! And you better be hungry, because you can choose from five to seven-course tasting menus.
Have Fun at the Friends Experience London
Excel London, Immerse LDN, London E16 1XL
As the evening sets in, make your way to The Friends Experience London, a must for fans of the iconic TV show. Pose on the orange couch at Central Perk, step into Monica’s apartment, and immerse yourself in the world of Ross, Rachel, and the gang.
Vibe Out at the Dalston Jazz Bar
4 Bradbury St, London N16 8JN
Later, finish your 2 days in London by heading back to Dalston for some live music at the Dalston Jazz Bar. This intimate London bar is perfect for unwinding with great seafood, cocktails, and soulful jazz. Make sure to check their website for information about special performances.
Extend Your Stay with a Day Trip
If you happen to have some time left over on your 2 days in London or fancy extending your stay, consider taking a day trip from London to places of interest nearby. In just an hour or so, you can get a different flavour of England by visiting:
- The historic city of Oxford
- Windsor and its famous castle
- Cambridge's famous university and canals
- The Making of Harry Potter, is a must if you're spending 2 days in London with family
Will You Spend 2 Days in London England?
We hope we've inspired you with our guide on the best things to do in 2 days in London England, that proves that you don't need ages to make the most of this incredible UK city. From viewing all the must-see London landmarks to trying the best local food, London is great for a quick weekend away. So, if you've been putting it off, take this as your sign to book your flight to London now.
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