Visiting London for the first time? Here’s the perfect 2-3 day weekend in London itinerary.
London has been calling us (from their red phone booths) for some time now. So, we packed our bags to check out one UK’s oldest cities for a long weekend. From Big Ben to Westminster Abbey, London’s historical attractions are endless, and there is always something to see, do, and eat.
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Last Updated: June 2, 2023
11 Best Things to Do in London for Your First Visit
With the Go City London Pass, we had the opportunity to check out a few popular attractions, as well as some other points of interest that were recommended to us by the Go City team.
We organized our days based on area. Here are a few things you shouldn’t miss when visiting London.
weekend in London itinerary Day 1
For our 3 day weekend in London, we picked what to do each day based on what was nearby in each area.
1. Take a Picture with Big Ben
London SW1A 0AA, UK, map
Speaking of icons, everyone knows what Big Ben is, even if you’ve never been to London. Even though it’s currently closed for renovations and restorations, you can still stop by and snap a quick photo with Big Ben. The Houses of Parliament, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is attached to the clock tower. It is currently still open for tours.
It’s a 10-minute walk from Westminster Abbey if you want to knock out a couple of places simultaneously.
Local Tip: Best photo spot is under Westminster Bridge, which leads right up to Big Ben. Arrive before sunrise to avoid the crowds.
2. Westminster Abbey
Dean’s Yard, London SW1P 3PA, UK, map
Westminster Abbey was our favorite attraction, hands down. It is steeped in centuries of history and has significantly shaped the British monarchy, religion, and culture. It has been the site of numerous royal weddings, coronations, and burials, including that of British monarchs and other notable figures throughout history.
We enjoyed the self-guided audio tour, which provides visitors with detailed information about the site’s history, architecture, and notable features. Check out key areas, such as the Poets’ Corner, the Coronation Chair, and the Royal…