Your 2-Day London Itinerary: From Landmarks to Local Hotspots

London is a city where you rarely feel like you have enough time. From stunning parks, legendary landmarks and skyline views to quirky bars, eclectic neighbourhoods, iconic film sets and everything in between.

If you only have two days in London here is our 2 day London itinerary packed with must-see places and underrated spots. We’ve hit the streets and explored our home city to find you the best-rated spots to eat and of course, the most luxurious spots to stay in during your two days in London. 

If you are planning to visit London for 2 days then let’s dive into our complete guide for 2 days in London England.

2 day London itinerary

The beauty of two days in London is that it offers just enough time to savour the essence of the UK’s vibrant capital and allows you enough time to explore the various areas that London has. Whether you’re popping over for a weekend away or a mid-week getaway, the city brims with possibilities.

Tick off those must-see landmarks, dive into iconic attractions, indulge in the finest dining, sip cocktails at stylish bars or shop until your heart’s content, all whilst immersing yourself in London’s rich history. Whatever your passion, this city never disappoints. Let’s dive into planning your trip to London for 2 days.

Day 1 in London

Morning

We’re usually advocates for lazing in bed on a Saturday morning, but, if there was ever anywhere worth jumping out of bed for, it’s London.

If you usually wake up hungry, then you’re in the right place. London doesn’t mess around when it comes to brunch and every appetite is catered for, be that a coffee and a pastry, an Australian-inspired brunch or a greasy fry-up, you’ll find somewhere to please your tastebuds, you won’t go hungry during your two days in London.

We recommend starting your day off with a jolt of caffeine at one of London’s many coffee shops. We suggest Watch House, which has coffee shops across the city. Grab a pastry if you’re feeling hungry and get ready to start your 2-day London itinerary.

Once you’ve had your caffeine fix, head to Westminster for a taste of iconic London. Take in the views of Big Ben, The River Thames and The London Eye. If you’re interested in visiting Westminster Abbey and taking a tour of the interior you can purchase tickets beforehand online, an adult ticket costs £30. You can also visit inside the iconic Big Ben, tickets for this are released a few times a year and sell out quickly, you can check availability and purchase your tickets here.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon perusing the shops along Oxford Street and Regents Street, whether you opt for a full shopping trip or more of a window browse, there’ll be plenty to keep you occupied. Make your way into Mayfair and along Marylebone High Street, where there are plenty of independent shops and cafes here to indulge in, treat yourself to an afternoon caffeine fix or some nibbles and a glass of pre-dinner Champagne.

Don’t miss the charmingly old-school Burlington Arcade, a 200-year-old shopping gallery. The arcade is there to be marvelled at. But, if you’re looking at doing some shopping then you’re also in luck with the insides packed full of independent and luxury boutiques. You’ll find Scottish cashmere at Begg x Co, vintage Omega watches at Somlo London and covetable luggage at Globe-Trotter.

Evening

Once your way to Covent Garden for dinner, there are plenty of choices of restaurants here. If you’re looking for a romantic evening then Clos Maggiore is unmatched. For a more relaxed approach, but, equally as flavoursome, Dishoom is always a good idea, packed full of innovative dishes. But, without the ability to book a table, be prepared to wait for one. 

Once your stomach is full, spend the rest of your evening at the theatre in the West End. If you have your heart set on a specific show then be sure to book tickets in advance. If you’re willing to chance it then head to Leicester Square and finish your day with a last-minute offering.

London for 2 days – Day 2 in London

Morning

Start your second day of your 2-day London itinerary off with a trip to Portobello Market with its colourful houses and antique shops. The iconic Portobello Road Market runs every day and sells a selection of antiques, vintage fashion, and bric-a-brack. It is the perfect way to spend a morning. If you are spending two days in London over the weekend then we recommend visiting here either on Friday or Saturday as Portobello Road is at its busiest then.

Portobello is just around the corner from the beautiful white houses of Notting Hill.

Notting Hill, really is just idyllic, spend some time exploring and admiring the Victorian architecture that the area has on offer. Beyond Portobello Road, you’ll find Lancaster Road, Elgin Crescent, St Luke’s Mews and Farm Place among the most photogenic streets.

Afternoon

London’s parks are as iconic as its streets so spend your second afternoon in London’s largest and potentially most famous; Hyde Park. Opt for a hot drink and meander through the large open spaces or hire a bike and cycle through the park. It is very easy to hire a bike, just simply download the company’s app (e.g. Lime), scan the QR code, and you’re good to go! The rental costs will automatically be charged to your bank account depending on how long you spend on the bike. 

Evening

London has an abundance of restaurants to sample for dinner so you’ll be spoilt for choice, stay around Hyde Park and head to somewhere such as The Aubrey, Sette or The Italian Greyhound, all of which serve delicious dishes and ambient settings.

Opt for an after-dinner nightcap in a hidden bar. For a truly decadent spot make your way to the Beaufort bar at the Savoy and enjoy a perfectly poured Old Fashioned. For a French twist on your sundowner opt for Bar des Prés at The Lounge, expect French Hollywood energy at this underground lounge, the perfect end to your 2-day London itinerary.

Where to stay in London

London is brimming with spots to stay to suit every pallet. With an array of boutique hotels, chic hideaways, and luxurious retreats spread across the city, there’s a wealth of options to suit every taste. Whether you’re seeking the elegance of Mayfair, the artistic flair of Shoreditch, or the historic charm of Westminster, a corner of London is ready to welcome you for your weekend getaway.

With the size of London, we recommend basing yourself in a central location with good public transport options to make the most of your two days in London.

We’ve narrowed down London’s best hotels, including those with telescopic city views, quaint surroundings and some of the most luxurious interiors found in peak positions.

The Marylebone

Overlooking one of London’s most iconic high streets, The Marylebone offers unrivalled suites complete with private terraces to sit and indulge in a glass of Champagne. With direct access to a Third Space Gym an 18m swimming pool and a cocktail bar and Brasserie you’ll never want to leave the hotel.

The Marylebone Hotel coming soon.

South Place Hotel

Just off Liverpool Street, one of London’s best-connected transport hubs, South Place Hotel offers some of the largest rooms and suites in London. With a spa and gym plus, multiple restaurants including the iconic Secret Garden hidden outdoor terrace

Book South Place Hotel here.

The BoTree

The BoTree, on Marylebone Lane, epitomises conscious luxury. Sandwiched between 3 of London’s most iconic destinations The BoTree is located in the perfect position for spending two days in London and exploring some of its most popular spots. With an array of luxurious facilities within the hotel and all around it, it’s a perfect option for a weekend in London.

Book The BoTree here.

Getting To London

London, as you would expect from the capital, is a very well-connected city, regionally and from overseas. If travelling from within The UK, the most convenient way is to travel via train into Waterloo or Kings Cross St Pancras depending on where you are travelling from within the country. No matter where in the country you are travelling from you can easily access London via train. If you are travelling outside of the UK, then you can access London from Europe via train as well using the Eurostar.  Beyond that, the most common way to London internationally is by flying into one of the four main airports (Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, and Luton).

Travelling Around London

London has one of the best underground systems in the world. Similar to The Metro in Paris, you can travel just about anywhere in London via the tube, owing to London’s traffic the tube can be a far quicker and more convenient way of travelling from one side of London to the other compared to a black cab or Uber.

If you’re not used to the tube networks, they can be confusing. We recommend using Google Maps or City Mapper to discover the best route for you. You can pay for the tube with either an Oyster Card, your bank card or even Apple Pay. Simply tap on and off at the start and end of your journey.

The buses in London are also incredibly convenient and easy to use, they also offer a far better way to see sights across London and are almost as quick as the Tube. Double Decker busses in London can offer an incredible way to see London whilst also travelling to your destination.

Finally, London Black Cabs are a convenient, on-demand way of travelling across London during your two days in London. They are of course more expensive than public transport, but, they mean you can conveniently travel from one spot to another whenever you want.

When is the best time to visit London?

Owing to its huge mixture of things to see and do, 2 days in London, England is always a good idea no matter the time of year. However, shoulder seasons are a wonderful time to opt to visit London comprising of mid-September through November and March through April. London is less crowded during these times and whilst the weather is never guaranteed in the capital March through April often offer early sunny days and less rainfall than October and November.

Christmas time in London is also a magical time to visit and see the lights of Oxford Street and the displays of Harrods and Selfridges.