London in 48 hours
London rewards curiosity more than a checklist. Its big landmarks are worth seeing, but the city's character lives in its small museums, its parks, its markets and the pubs on quiet side streets.
Best time to visit. Late spring and summer, when evenings stay light until late; December, for lights, carols and markets. The weather changes often in any season.
Where to base yourself
- Mayfair. Georgian squares, art dealers and Bond Street, a short walk from Hyde Park and Green Park.
- Marylebone. A village-like high street, independent shops and the Wallace Collection.
- Bloomsbury. Leafy garden squares, the British Museum and quiet bookshops.
- Bankside. Tate Modern, Shakespeare's Globe and the food stalls of Borough Market.
- Hampstead. A hill village with the open grass and ponds of Hampstead Heath.
Two perfect days
Day one · West End
- Morning
- The National Gallery and Trafalgar Square early, before the crowds
- Afternoon
- Lunch in Marylebone and the Wallace Collection
- Evening
- An evening at the theater, then a late supper
Day two · Across the river
- Morning
- Sir John Soane's Museum, a house crammed with curiosities
- Afternoon
- Borough Market for lunch and a walk to Tate Modern
- Evening
- A river boat east to Greenwich or back west at dusk
Getting around
On the Underground, the Elizabeth line and London's red buses, paying by contactless card or phone is simplest, and daily caps keep costs down. River boats are a scenic alternative. From Heathrow, the Heathrow Express to Paddington takes about 15 minutes.
Local tips
- Walk between neighboring Tube stations; it is often quicker
- Many national museums charge nothing for the main collections
- Check whether service is already on the bill before tipping
- Sunday lunch in a pub is worth booking