The Short Answer
Yes, you can see a lot of London in two days. But it will be a busy two days and you might have to prioritize your itinerary.
Day 1
Start your first day by visiting the iconic Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. Take a tour inside and learn about the history of British democracy. After that, head to Westminster Abbey, where many famous people have been buried including kings and queens, politicians, scientists, and poets.
Next up is Buckingham Palace, the residence of Queen Elizabeth II. If you’re lucky, you might even see the Changing of the Guard ceremony. From there, walk down The Mall towards Trafalgar Square where you can find the National Gallery – home to some of the world’s most famous paintings including works by Van Gogh, Monet, and Botticelli.
In the afternoon, head to Covent Garden for lunch. This area is known for its street performers and unique shopping experiences. After lunch, take a stroll across Waterloo Bridge for stunning views over the Thames River towards St Paul’s Cathedral – another iconic London landmark.
Day 1 Itinerary:
- Houses of Parliament
- Westminster Abbey
- Buckingham Palace
- National Gallery
- Covent Garden
- Waterloo Bridge
- St Paul’s Cathedral
Day 2
Your second day starts with a visit to Tower Bridge – one of London’s most famous bridges with its distinctive towers and suspension cables. You can even take a tour of the bridge’s engine rooms to see how it operates.
From there, head to the Tower of London where you can see the Crown Jewels, explore the White Tower and learn about the history of this famous fortress. If you’re feeling brave, take a tour with one of the Yeoman Warders – commonly known as ‘Beefeaters’ – who will regale you with tales of torture, execution and imprisonment.
After lunch, head to the West End for some shopping on Oxford Street or Regent Street. Alternatively, visit Camden Market for a unique shopping experience and some tasty street food. Finish your day by taking in a show at one of London’s famous theatres such as The Globe or The West End.
Day 2 Itinerary:
- Tower Bridge
- Tower of London
- Oxford Street/Regent Street or Camden Market
- Theatre Show
The Bottom Line
While it’s possible to see a lot of London in two days, it will be a busy itinerary and you may miss out on some attractions. However, if you’re short on time but want to experience as much as possible, this itinerary will give you a taste of what London has to offer.