You got a chance to spend one day in London but don’t know how to plan it? Don’t worry, you will be fine in this vibrant, one of the third largest cities in Europe. To make your day trip easier and better, here’s a guide curated for someone special like you. 

London is a city where history meets modernity. It has many things to offer if you only have one day to spare. Every corner of this city has something to attract visitors. Because the city is filled with iconic landmarks and hidden gems. But with so much to see, planning your itinerary wisely is key. Let’s take you through a perfectly curated day trip to make the most of your 24 hours in London.

One Day in London: What To Do?

While staying only a day in London, you can start your day with a sip of coffee or tea, early in the morning by 7:00 AM. Once you get your coffee, start walking through historical places and iconic sights. 

1. Start with the Tower of London

If you are in London and you get to visit only one place, the Tower of London has to be the one. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site full of history. 

The earlier you reach there, the better. If possible, stand in a queue and take a glance at the Crown Jewels. But make sure you purchase the ticket first. To roam around this treasure house, will require at least 1.5 hours of your time.   

2. Walk Across Tower Bridge

While leaving the tower of London, you can take a quick stroll around the stunning Tower Bridge. You can capture a breathtaking view of the River Thames and the city skyline.

You can also visit the Tower Bridge Exhibition. It would be fun if you visited there with friends and family. If you are lucky enough you may see the bridge lifting process. As per the schedule, the Tower Bridge is lifted yearly 800 times.

3. Breakfast at Borough Market

Just a short walk away, Borough Market can be your savior for a hearty breakfast. You can find multiple cafes in the market and spend a 30-minute 

while enjoying an artisanal coffee and freshly baked pastries or a classic English breakfast. The market’s vibrant energy can set your mood for the rest of the day.

4. Visit The Shard – Skyscraper 

After breakfast, take a walk toward the tallest structure in Western Europe. The Shard is one of the highest structures in Europe and one of the top 100 tallest structures worldwide. You can enjoy some of the best 360° views of London by visiting the Skydeck.

From the top of the building, you can see the entire city below beside the River Thames. The building stays open till late evening, so it can be your last destination for the day. Whenever you visit the place, the view is even spectacular around sunset. It never lets you down.

5. London Eye

 On the 5th in our list, we have added the London Eye. It is one of the most well-known attractions. A journey on this observation wheel can offer some of London’s greatest vistas. You can view all of central London from the top. You will surely get a decent perspective of the city and several of its well-known landmarks from it.

No matter your age, London Eye has something for everyone to offer. You can taste Champagne to avoid the long queue. If the forecast is less cloudy, you may get a glance at Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace, and even Windsor Castle. 

6. Westminster Bridge and Big Ben

Now just a few minutes of walking will take you to the Westminster Bridge. The view of the bridge with the beautiful gothic buildings of Westminster Palace is among the most recognizable images from London. This is the heart of the city that you really shouldn’t miss, no matter how long or short your visit is.

Continue your journey toward the Houses of Parliament and the famous Big Ben. Originally built in the 11th century as a royal palace, you may know this building as something else today—the Houses of Parliament. 

Take some time to admire the stunning Gothic architecture and snap some photos. The grandeur of the Parliament buildings is awe-inspiring, and the iconic clock tower is a symbol of London. If time permits, consider a guided tour of the Parliament to learn about its history and significance. The nearby Westminster Bridge offers another fantastic spot for picturesque views of the river and the city.

7. Westminster Abbey

If you cross the bridge and walk just a bit further past Big Ben, you will soon see the famous Westminster Abbey.

Westminster Abbey is the site of many of Britain’s most important events. Every British monarch has been crowned here since the 11th century, many royal weddings and funerals take place here, etc. The Abbey is also the burial site of countless famous British historical figures, such as Charles Darwin and Isaac Newton, just to name a few.

This Gothic building is remarkably beautiful and you can visit it inside. If you decide to do this, be sure to book the timed-entry tickets in advance! Keep in mind that you will need at least an hour to quickly visit the Abbey. More realistically, you should count at least 1.5-2 hours for a visit.

8. Buckingham Palace and The Mall

Here comes the palace, the center of your one day in London trip. You can peer through the railings to watch the changing of the guard and wonder as to how the other half live, and wave frantically at the windows on the off chance that someone waves back. 

You can also visit and actually go inside Buckingham Palace with its very narrow windows of opening during the summer. Tickets for that experience are available here. We’ve done this tour and can definitely recommend it.

Of course, whilst you’re at Buckingham Palace, you should probably take a moment to explore some of the other local attractions.

A quick stroll down the Mall will take you past the pretty St James’s Park, home to several pelicans. Then you can head out onto Trafalgar Square, where you can enjoy seeing the lions, Nelson’s famous column, and sate your art appetite at the excellent, and free, National Gallery.

Note if art and museums are more your thing, you might want to schedule a visit to the British Museum in this itinerary. From Trafalgar Square, it’s a 20-minute walk or a 12-minute tube ride to one of London’s most famous (and free) museums.

Cultural Landmarks and Scenic Walks

Explore Shakespeare’s Globe

Walk along the South Bank to Shakespeare’s Globe, a faithful reconstruction of the Elizabethan theater. Take a quick tour to learn about the Bard’s work and its cultural significance.

Hop on a River Cruise

Board a Thames River Cruise to admire landmarks like St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Shard, and the Millennium Bridge from the water. It’s a relaxing way to take in the city while covering significant ground.

St. James’s Park 

Wander through St. James’s Park, London’s oldest royal park. Relax on a bench, feed the ducks, or snap pictures with Buckingham Palace as the backdrop.

Serenity at Regent’s Canal

Stroll along Regent’s Canal, a serene waterway offering a stark contrast to London’s bustling streets. For an extra adventure, consider renting a canal boat.

One Day in London: Where to Stay?

Budget-Friendly

For budget-friendly accommodations, consider YHA London St Pancras, a hostel that offers clean and comfortable dormitory-style rooms. The Generator is another popular hostel in the heart of London, providing a lively atmosphere and various amenities. Airbnb options are also available, offering affordable stays in local neighborhoods.

Mid-Range

In the mid-range category, The Z Hotel in Soho provides modern rooms at reasonable prices, close to many attractions. The Hoxton in Shoreditch is another excellent choice, known for its stylish design and vibrant atmosphere. Premier Inn hotels are widely available across the city, offering comfortable stays at competitive rates.

Luxury

For a luxurious stay, consider The Ritz London, an iconic hotel known for its opulence and impeccable service. The Savoy is another top choice, offering stunning views of the Thames and a rich history. For a unique experience, The Shard features the Shangri-La Hotel, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city from your room.

One Day in London: Best Places to Eat

Budget-Friendly

For budget-conscious travelers, Dishoom offers a delightful Indian breakfast and lunch menu in a vibrant setting. Another great option is Leon, which serves healthy fast food with a focus on fresh ingredients. Pret a Manger is perfect for quick sandwiches and coffee on the go, providing a variety of options at affordable prices.

Mid-Range

If you’re looking for something in the mid-range category, The Ivy in Covent Garden is a classic choice, known for its elegant atmosphere and diverse menu. Flat Iron is a must-visit for steak lovers, offering quality cuts at reasonable prices. Dishoom is also a great mid-range option, providing a unique dining experience with its flavorful dishes.

Luxury

For a luxurious dining experience, consider Sketch, known for its stunning decor and innovative cuisine. Gordon Ramsay’s Savoy Grill offers a fine dining experience with British and French influences. Another excellent choice is Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, where you can enjoy dishes inspired by historical British recipes in a contemporary setting.

A Day in London – How to Get Around? 

Navigating London is convenient due to its extensive public transportation system. The London Underground, commonly known as the Tube, is one of the fastest ways to travel across the city. With 11 lines covering 270 stations, it connects major attractions efficiently. Purchase an Oyster card or use contactless payment for seamless travel.

Buses are another excellent option, offering a scenic way to see the city. The iconic red double-decker buses provide an affordable means of transportation and a unique perspective of London’s streets. For shorter distances, consider walking or renting a Boris bike from the cycle hire scheme.

Additional Tips For Your Day Trip to London

1. While you are on a day trip to london, remember that the Electricity there is of the 220v standard. Additionally, everywhere around London, you may not find the three-pin plug. Travelers from the US are requested to carry three pin adapters.

If you are from the US, you might need to check if your equipment supports the 220v standard – it will be written clearly on the power adapter.

2. If you follow this post exactly as it is suggested here, you will be walking a lot, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes. This itinerary focuses on the main landmarks, many of which are located too close to each other to take a metro every time, but far enough to give you a good exercise. You’ll only take a boat to get from Westminster to Tower Bridge.

3. Use a metro to get to the starting point of this itinerary and back to your hotel at the end of the day. It’s the fastest way to cover big distances in London.

4. Make sure, you always pre-book the tickets for any of the attractions that you want to visit. Otherwise, forget it and just enjoy the sights from the outside. With just one day in London, you really don’t want to waste time queuing at one or the other attraction for an hour or two before you can even get inside. Plus, in some places, walk-ins are not guaranteed at all.

5. You must explore the Harry Potter Trail. At King’s Cross Station you can take a Harry Potter walking tour. It’s a must-do-activity for bookworms.

6. London is predominantly a tourist friendly city, as any large city you will need to be aware and take steps to look after yourself. In case of emergencies (Police, Fire, Emergency services) dial 999. Non-urgent stuff: the police are 101 If you are travelling alone, tell a friend or family member about your plan. Staying alert, planning and acting with common sense will ensure that you have a safe and fun trip full of amazing experiences.

Conclusion

A day in London can be packed with unforgettable experiences if planned wisely. From historic landmarks to vibrant markets and captivating shows, this city has something for everyone. With this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to make the most of your one-day adventure in London. Happy travels!