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London is one of my favourite cities and while I may have explored most of it after living there for 3 years, it never gets boring. If you’re wondering how to spend just one day in the city, whether you’re on a layover, a packed Euro trip or just a day trip, I’ve got you covered.
This itinerary is designed for first-time visitors who want to see the best of London in just one day, from Tower Bridge to Buckingham Palace, with time for food markets, parks and even a theatre show. I've also included tube routes so you don't waste any time!
Morning: Westminster
Start your day in London in the Westminster area, a historic part of London with plenty of iconic sights.
If you’re arriving by Tube, get off at Waterloo (by the London Eye) or Westminster Station (by Big Ben).
The London Eye
One of London's most known attractions is the London Eye, which you'll spot straight away once you're in the area. If you’re keen to ride it, it’s best to book ahead and aim for one of the first time slots to avoid long queues.
Otherwise, just enjoy the views from below, the riverside path here is lovely in the morning.
Big Ben & the Houses of Parliament
The next spot on your mini London tour is Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster, both iconic landmarks of London.
From the South Bank, you'll have incredible views of the landmarks across the river, so head here to take some photos. After, walk across Westminster Bridge to see them up close and head towards the next spot.
Westminster Abbey
Just a few minutes’ walk from Big Ben, this 700-year-old masterpiece is where royal coronations, weddings and burials have taken place for centuries.
If you’re a history or architecture lover, it’s worth going inside (allow 45-60 minutes). If not, the exterior alone is pretty impressive!
Mid-morning: Buckingham Palace
After exploring Westminster, walk 15–20 minutes through St James’s Park, one of the prettiest parks in central London. This will lead you right to Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the King.
Stop here for some iconic photos at the gates, watch the guards in their classic red uniforms and admire the beauty of the grand palace. If you're lucky, you might even time it right with the Changing of the Guard!
This famous ceremony usually takes place around 11:00 am at Buckingham Palace (on select days, check the official schedule). If you're keen to see it, make sure you time your arrival at the palace for around 10:30 AM to get a good viewing spot.
If you're visiting in the summer, you can even take a tour of the State Rooms!
Afternoon: Borough Market & City of London
After exploring London's Royal spots, it's time to head east to explore London's medieval side, with castles, towers and some great food.
Take the tube from St James’s Park Station to Monument Station (about 15 minutes). From there, it’s a short walk across London Bridge and down to the riverside to reach Borough Market.
Lunch at Borough Market
By now you'll be hungry for lunch and Borough Market is the perfect spot. The famous market is full of international street food, british classics, artisan cheeses, coffee and so much more.
Check our London map & travel guide for more of the best hidden gems, photo spots & things to do 👇
Tower Bridge
After lunch, take a 15 minute walk along the river to reach Tower Bridge, another one of London's most famous landmarks.
This Victorian-era bridge is an absolute must-see in London and was always one of my favourite places to photograph!
Walk across the bridge for gorgeous river and city views, or buy a ticket to visit the Tower Bridge Exhibition and its glass-floor walkways for a unique view of the bridge.
Tower of London
After walking over the bridge you'll immediately spot the Tower of London, a historic castle with over 1,000 years of royal (and sometimes grim) history.
If you want to go inside and see the Crown Jewels or take a tour, allow at least 1.5-2 hours, but if you’re short on time, just admire it from the outside.
💸 Money saving tip - The best way to save on London attractions like these is with a Go City Pass - offering up to 50% off the best things to see and do. Plus, if you don't save money, they'll refund the difference!
Evening: Covent Garden & a West End Show
After a big afternoon exploring London’s oldest landmarks, it’s time to head to London's theatre district for dinner and a theatre show to end your day.
From the Tower of London, take the tube from Tower Hill Station to Embankment Station, from there it's a 10 minute walk to Covent Garden.
Dinner in Covent Garden
Covent Garden is a lively square in central London, especially in the evenings. It's full of restaurants, wine bars and cosy pubs, so it's the perfect spot to grab a pre-show dinner. We recommend Seven Dials Market, an indoor food hall with everything from bao buns and pasta to burgers and cocktails.
Or, if you prefer a restaurant setting, Dishoom has some great food (Indian small plates, hugely popular - book ahead!). Aim to eat by 6:00-6:30 pm so you’ve got time to get to the theatre without rushing.
Watch a Theatre Show
London’s West End is world-famous for its theatre and it’s the perfect way to end your one-day adventure. Shows typically start at 7:30 pm, and most theatres are based around Covent Garden and Leicester Square.
If you haven’t booked in advance, check apps like TodayTix or head to the TKTS booth in Leicester Square for last-minute deals.
We highly recommend seeing The Book of Mormon or Stranger Things, which are both brilliant.
Where should I stay if I only have one day in London?
Stay in central areas like Covent Garden or the South Bank, which will put you close to famous spots and tube lines. For a detailed guide on the best areas and hotels, see our post about where to stay in London!
Chloe Butcher
Can you really see London in one day?
You won’t be able to see everything, but yes, you can see some of the highlights in one day. You'll be able to tick off some of the big sights like Big Ben, Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace and even squeeze in a show. This itinerary is fast-paced but definitely doable.
Is it better to walk or use the Tube for one day in London?
A mix of both! London is very walkable in the central areas (especially around Westminster and Covent Garden), but the Tube is your perfect for longer jumps, like between Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London.
Chloe Butcher
👋 We hope that you found this guide helpful! Before you go - don't forget to read our other UK travel guides for more tips, suggestions & advice.
Want to make the most of your trip? Remember to check out our interactive London Map - packed with hidden gems, exclusive tips and photo spots you won’t find in every blog post 👀
