London, England 2 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Exploring Central London
Morning:
- Start your day with a hearty English breakfast at Dishoom Kensington or The Breakfast Club Spitalfields.
- Visit the iconic Buckingham Palace. Remember, you can only see the changing of the guard during the summer months (August to late November) and on alternate days. Check the schedule before planning your visit.
- Take a leisurely stroll along The Mall towards St. James’s Park, where you can spot various bird species and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Afternoon:
- Head towards Westminster Abbey. With over a thousand years of history, it’s one of the most important religious buildings in the country.
- Cross the River Thames using Westminster Bridge to reach the Houses of Parliament and the Big Ben. While Big Ben is currently under restoration until 2021, you can still admire the Houses of Parliament from a distance.
- Explore the vibrant area around Covent Garden, filled with street performers, shops, and cafes. Don’t forget to visit the Neal’s Yard for some Instagram-worthy moments!
- For an unforgettable experience, watch a play at the Globe Theatre. If there are no performances during your visit, you can still take a guided tour of the historic site.
Evening:
- Dine at Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen for some modern British cuisine.
- End your day with a nighttime cruise on the River Thames. The Thames River Cruise offers various routes, allowing you to see London’s most famous landmarks beautifully lit up at night.
Day 2: Discovering East London
Morning:
- Start your day with breakfast at Violet Cakes Bakery in Hackney.
- Explore Brick Lane, famous for its vibrant street art, vintage shops, and delicious curry houses. Visit the Rough Trade East record store and the Old Truman Brewery.
- Take a stroll around Shoreditch, known for its trendy vibe, independent boutiques, and quirky street art.
Afternoon:
- Head to the Tower of London to explore the history behind this historic fortress and marvel at the Crown Jewels.
- Cross the Tower Bridge (not to be confused with the iconic Tower of London) for stunning views of the city skyline.
- Visit the Imperial War Museum or the Design Museum if you’re interested in history and design.
Evening:
- Dine at Dishoom Shoreditch for a taste of Bombay café culture.
- End your evening with a visit to the Sky Garden, an urban oasis located high above the city. Book in advance as tickets can sell out quickly!
Things to Know:
- London’s public transport system is excellent, with the Tube being the most convenient way to get around. Remember to use contactless payment for a seamless experience.
- London can be quite expensive, so budget accordingly. Consider getting an Oyster card for unlimited travel within zones 1-6.
- Always check the opening hours and ticket prices before visiting attractions to avoid disappointment.
- Londoners are known for being polite, but also for keeping to themselves. Don’t be surprised if conversations aren’t as forthcoming as in other parts of the world!
- Enjoy your trip, and remember to take lots of photos!