Only 48 Hours in London? Here's Exactly What We'd Do
Navigate London's South Bank, find underground espresso bars, and master the tube network in exactly two days.
48-HOUR ITINERARY
London is one of those cities that can easily fill a week, but if you only have 48 hours, you'll be surprised by how much you can experience. Whether you're visiting for business, a weekend getaway, or extending a work trip, this itinerary lets you explore London's iconic landmarks, charming neighborhoods, and diverse food scene without feeling rushed.
During our stay, we chose Holiday Inn London Kensington High Street, a convenient base just a few minutes' walk from High Street Kensington Underground Station. With excellent transport connections, most attractions were less than 30 minutes away by Tube, making it an ideal location for independent travelers.
Day 1 - London's Iconic Landmarks
08:00 – Breakfast Near the Hotel: Start the day with breakfast at The Ivy Kensington Brasserie or PAUL Bakery near High Street Kensington. Budget: £12–18
09:00 – Kensington Gardens & Hyde Park: Walk from the hotel to Kensington Gardens and enjoy one of London's most beautiful parks before the crowds arrive. Visit the Albert Memorial and stroll toward Hyde Park. Walking time: 15 minutes Cost: Free
10:30 – Buckingham Palace: Take the District Line from High Street Kensington to St. James's Park Station. Spend time around Buckingham Palace and, if timing allows, watch the Changing of the Guard (typically around 11:00 AM on selected days). Tube: 15 minutes. Cost: £2.80–3
12:00 – St James's Park: Instead of rushing to the next attraction, walk through St James's Park, one of London's most picturesque green spaces.
13:00 – Lunch at Covent Garden: Walk about 20 minutes to Covent Garden, famous for its street performers, boutique shops, and lively atmosphere. Recommended: Fish &Chips. Budget: £20–30
15:00 – Leicester Square & Piccadilly Circus: Continue walking to Leicester Square, then Piccadilly Circus, soaking in London's vibrant city life. Don't forget to stop by Fortnum & Mason or Ladurée if you're in the mood for tea or macarons.
16:30 – Trafalgar Square: Walk to Trafalgar Square and admire the National Gallery from the outside.
18:00 – Dinner in Chinatown: London's Chinatown is one of the best places for authentic Chinese cuisine. Recommended restaurants: Wong Kei. Budget: £20–30
20:00 – Big Ben at Night: Take the Tube to Westminster Station and admire Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye beautifully illuminated after sunset. Return to the hotel by Tube.
Day 1 Budget:
Breakfast: £15
Lunch: £25
Dinner: £25
Tube: £8
Attractions: Free
Estimated Total: £70–75
Day 2 - The Historic East End
08:30 – Breakfast Near the Hotel: Grab coffee and pastries before heading out. Budget: £10–15
09:30 – Tower of London: Take the Circle Line directly to Tower Hill Station. Explore the historic fortress from the outside, or enter if you'd like to see the Crown Jewels. Entry (optional): approximately £35
11:00 – Tower Bridge: Walk across London's most famous bridge and enjoy spectacular views of the River Thames.
12:30 – Borough Market: Cross the Thames to Borough Market, one of London's oldest food markets. Must try: beef wellington, salt beef sandwich, fresh oysters, and coffee. Budget: £15–25
14:30 – St Paul's Cathedral: Walk across the Millennium Bridge to St Paul's Cathedral. Admire the architecture or simply relax on the cathedral steps.
16:00 – Covent Garden or Oxford Street: Strolling at Oxford Street, Covent Garden, and Explore Seven Dials
18:30 – Dinner: Enjoy a relaxed dinner before returning to Kensington. Recommended: Honest Burger., Dishoom Indian Cuisine. Budget: £25–35
20:00 – Return to Holiday Inn Kensington: Finish your London adventure with a leisurely evening walk around Kensington High Street before packing for your next destination.
Day 2 Budget:
Breakfast: £15
Lunch: £25
Dinner: £35
Tube: £8
Tower of London: £35
Estimated Total: £118
