3 Days in London: Suggested Itineraries

Written by Viator, August 2010

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If you want big, you’ll go no bigger than London. The world’s tenacious financial center, London is known for its chaotic walkways, historic relics plundered from afar, ancient pubs, regal palaces, myriad accents, and endless nightlife. Whatever your tastes are, you can satisfy them here, in London.

Day 1: See London

Want to attempt the impossible and see London in a day? You'll definitely need a guide. Trust in London’s famous black cab drivers; these super-cabbies are licensed by the city and given an exhaustive test to assure intimate knowledge with London’s labyrinthine lanes. Or just choose your own highlights on a hop-on hop-off tour. Whichever method you choose, don't miss St Paul's Cathedral, Big Ben, the South Bank, Westminster Abbey, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and a traditional English Tea Time.

Day 2: London Shopping and Touring

London doesn’t acquire the title of World’s Financial Centre and playground for the fashonista elite for nothing. Harrod’s, Oxford Circus, and Piccadilly Circus are all postcard London, with all the glamour and price-tags there involved, but if you’re looking for something with a more local flavor, try one of the many exciting markets. Among them are Portobello Road, famous for antiques and quirky odds 'n' ends (Saturdays); Borough Market, a Saturday must-do for foodies; and Camden Markets, open every day, with alternative fashions and hand-made crafts.

London has some of the world's best museums and galleries. Don't miss the Tate Modern, the British Museum, the National Gallery, or the Victoria and Albert Museum. And if it's a nice day, go for stroll along the Southbank of the Thames, or in one of London's wonderful parks: Hyde Park, Regent's Park, or Hampstead Heath.

Day 3: Day Trips Beyond

London could keep you occupied for weeks, but there are plenty of things to see and do beyond the city limits. Head from London to Windsor Castle (continuously occupied for nearly 1,000 years - a record), mysterious Stonehenge, and the Roman spas of genteel Bath. Or make a pilgrimage to Canterbury, Dover, and Leeds Castle. Stratford, birthplace of Shakespeare, has annual festivals and performances of the Bard's work nearly year-round. Or visit the famous universities at Oxford and Cambridge. Go even further afield: try haggis in Edinburgh or snails in Paris.

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Reply by Diane H, May 2012

Doing what: Small-Group Day Trip to Stonehenge, Bath and Windsor from London

My husband and I visited London with another couple this past week. I was in charge of making up an itinerary for us so I thought it would be fun to do a day trip. We chose the Stonehenge, Bath and Windsor tour in a small group coach (15 people plus the guide)
Our tour guide was Tony and he had us laughing immediately. This guy had a world of knowledge and it was very interesting hearing some of the back stories you don't always read about in the history books.(not to mention his knowledge of cars which was the subject of much conversation with the men!)
We visited Stonehenge first thing in the morning, which was perfect because the crowds had not yet arrived... You are given a hand held tour recording to listen to while you circle around the site but we never even turned ours on because Tony led us around and gave us his own tour. It made it so much more interesting!
Next... we went to Bath. We toured the ancient pools and tried to imagine what it was like in it's days of splendor! Afterwards, a few of us met up with Tony for a walking tour of the city. He led us around and pointed out some amazing historical sites with a full commentary of what we were seeing. It was a much more personal experience rather than being herded around like cattle.
Last but not least, we headed to Windsor Castle. The Queen had a luncheon for her diamond Jubilee celebration so the castle was closed to the public... There were a lot of great shops for finding some UK treasures though!
All in all, it was a wonderful day... I would HIGHLY recommend this company!

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Reply by cook31100, May 2012

Doing what: The Original London Sightseeing Tour: Hop-on Hop-off

Perfect. had a young man Paul was our guide the tour instead of the audio on the yellow line He was outstanding, Informative We also
did the red and blue line as well.

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Reply by Jeremy O, May 2012

Doing what: The Original London Sightseeing Tour: Hop-on Hop-off

Using the hop-on hop-off buses were a breeze, and our tour guide/driver were awesome as well! Definitely would do this again the next time we're in London!