London is big, bold, and packed with history. It’s also full of charm and character. You can explore ancient castles in the morning and dance to live music at night. A weekend in this city can be magical if you know how to plan it right.
Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, this guide will help you make the most of two full days in London. The perfect mix of landmarks, hidden gems, and local spots.
Start Your Saturday With a Hearty Breakfast
Your London weekend should begin with a strong breakfast. Head to The Breakfast Club in Soho. It’s popular for a reason. The pancakes are fluffy, the eggs are perfect, and the vibe is retro cool. Try to get there early. There’s often a queue.
If you prefer something lighter, grab a coffee and croissant from Gail’s Bakery. They have spots all over the city.
Eat well. You’re about to walk a lot.
Stroll Through Westminster
After breakfast, head to Westminster. This is where many of London’s famous sights sit close together. Take the Tube to Westminster station and come out to face Big Ben. It’s even more striking in person.
Walk across Westminster Bridge. From here, you’ll see the London Eye, the River Thames, and the Houses of Parliament. Take your time. Snap a few photos.
Next, head to Westminster Abbey. Even if you don’t go inside, stand outside and take in the gothic beauty. This church has seen royal weddings, coronations, and funerals for centuries.
Walk to Buckingham Palace
From Westminster, it’s a short and scenic walk to Buckingham Palace. Walk through St James’s Park along the way. The park is peaceful and full of swans and ducks. Sit on a bench for a few minutes and enjoy the view.
At Buckingham Palace, watch the Changing of the Guard if it’s happening. It’s touristy, yes, but fun to see once.
Lunch in Covent Garden
Now it’s time to eat again. Take a short Tube ride or walk to Covent Garden. This area is lively with street performers, little boutiques, and food spots.
Try Dishoom for a Bombay-style lunch. The black daal and house chai are amazing. Or go casual with Flat Iron for some of the best affordable steak in town.
After lunch, stroll around. Check out the Apple Market. Watch a magician or violinist perform. It’s a good mix of culture and fun.
Explore the British Museum
Your next stop is the British Museum. And guess what? It’s free. You could easily spend hours here. Don’t try to see everything. Pick a few highlights. The Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies, and the Parthenon sculptures are must-sees.
The museum is massive. After about 90 minutes, you’ll be ready for a break.
Evening Drinks and Dinner in Soho
As the sun sets, head to Soho. It’s full of energy at night. Start with a drink at Bar Termini if you like cocktails. Or try Cahoots, a fun 1940s-themed bar set in an old Tube station.
For dinner, you’ve got options. Go fancy with Bob Bob Ricard, where you press a button for champagne. Or keep it casual at Pizza Pilgrims for great Neapolitan-style pizza.
Walk around a bit after dinner. The neon signs and buzzing streets make Soho feel alive.
Sunday Morning in Notting Hill
Wake up and take it easy on Sunday. Make your way to Notting Hill. Start with breakfast at Farm Girl Café. It’s healthy, fresh, and totally Instagram-worthy.
After breakfast, wander along Portobello Road Market. Sundays are quieter than Saturdays, but many stalls still open. Look for vintage clothes, rare books, and cute antiques.
Don’t forget to take a picture of the pastel houses. This neighborhood is famous for them.
Walk Through Hyde Park
From Notting Hill, head to nearby Hyde Park. Walk, rent a bike, or take a pedal boat out on the Serpentine. It’s a calm, green space in the middle of the city.
Stop at the Serpentine Bar & Kitchen for a coffee or snack with a view.
If you’re interested in royalty, make a stop at Kensington Palace, right on the edge of the park. You can tour parts of it or just enjoy the gardens.
Lunch at Borough Market
After the park, hop on the Tube to London Bridge station and walk to Borough Market. This place is heaven for food lovers.
Grab a bite from one of the many street stalls. Try the grilled cheese from Kappacasein, a salt beef sandwich from Monty’s Deli, or fresh paella.
It gets busy, but the vibe is great. You’ll find locals and tourists enjoying every kind of food imaginable.
Walk Along the South Bank
After lunch, take a walk along the South Bank of the Thames. It’s one of the nicest walking routes in the city.
Start near Borough Market and head west. You’ll pass Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, Tate Modern, and Millennium Bridge. You’ll see views of St Paul’s Cathedral across the river.
Stop at Tate Modern if you like art. It’s also free. Even if you’re not an art fan, the building itself is worth a look.
Keep walking until you reach the London Eye again. It’s a full circle from the day before.
End the Weekend with a View
Wrap up your London weekend with a view. There are two great options.
You can go to Sky Garden near Monument Station. It’s free, but book ahead. You’ll get a panoramic view of the city with a drink in hand.
Or head to The Shard. It’s the tallest building in London. The Aqua Shard bar has beautiful views and solid drinks. It’s pricier, but worth it if you want to treat yourself.
As you watch the city lights flicker on, you’ll realize how much you packed into just two days.
London is one of those places where you can explore for weeks and still not see it all. But with a plan like this, your weekend will feel full, fun, and unforgettable.
