London is a city packed with history, culture, and unforgettable experiences. But with so much to see, how do you plan the perfect visit if you only have three days?

This guide offers a day-by-day itinerary for first-time visitors. It combines world-famous attractions with guided tours, family-friendly options, and even a day trip outside the city. If you’ve already explored our 1 Day in London Itinerary, this 3-day plan is the perfect next step to dive deeper into the capital.

Day 1: Classic London Icons

Your first day is all about ticking off London’s most famous landmarks — the postcard-perfect sights that define the city.

Morning:

• Start at Westminster to see Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Abbey.
• Walk down The Mall to watch the Changing of the Guard outside Buckingham Palace.

Afternoon:

• Visit the Tower of London to see the Crown Jewels and hear the Beefeaters’ stories.
• Cross Tower Bridge for one of London’s most photographed views.

Evening:

• Enjoy a Thames River Cruise for illuminated views of London at night.
• Dine in Covent Garden or catch a West End show.

Tour suggestion: The London in One Day Tour with Changing of the Guard covers many of these highlights with an expert guide.

Day 2: Harry Potter, Culture, and Covent Garden

Your second day blends London’s magical side with its cultural treasures.

Morning:

• Travel to Watford for the Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter. Step inside Diagon Alley, Dumbledore’s Office, and the Great Hall.

Afternoon:

• Return to central London for the Harry Potter Film Locations Walking Tour. Visit King’s Cross Station (Platform 9¾), Leadenhall Market, and Millennium Bridge.

Evening:

• Explore Covent Garden — street performers, boutique shops, and buzzing restaurants.
• If you prefer theatre, catch a musical in the West End.

Alternative options: If you’re not a Harry Potter fan, swap the day for cultural highlights like the British Museum, the National Gallery, or a themed walking tour such as All the World’s a Stage – Theatreland and Covent Garden.

Day 3: Day Trip Beyond London

On your final day, escape the city for a taste of England’s countryside and history.

Option 1: Stonehenge Express

• A quick half-day trip to the world’s most famous prehistoric monument.
• Tour: Stonehenge Express.

Option 2: Windsor Castle & Bath

• Visit the Queen’s weekend residence at Windsor Castle, then continue to Bath to admire its Roman Baths and Georgian architecture.
• Tour: Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Bath.

Option 3: Oxford or Stratford

• Explore Oxford’s ancient colleges or Shakespeare’s birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon.
• Tour: Warwick Castle, Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Oxford and the Cotswolds.

Evening:
Return to London for a farewell dinner along the South Bank with views of St Paul’s Cathedral and the Shard.

Family-Friendly & Travel Tips

• Transfers: Use car transfers or hotel e-shuttle to save time with luggage and kids.
• Connectivity: Stay connected with a UK SIM card for maps, e-tickets, and communication.
• Passes: If you’re visiting multiple attractions, consider the London Explorer Pass for better value.
• Pacing: Three days fly by quickly. Prioritise what matters most to your group (Harry Potter for fans, museums for culture lovers, or day trips for history buffs).

Conclusion

With three days in London, you can experience the best of both worlds — the iconic landmarks of Day 1, the magical and cultural highlights of Day 2, and a taste of England’s countryside on Day 3.

This 3-day itinerary is designed to give first-time visitors the perfect balance of history, culture, and fun. If you’re short on time, start with our 1 Day in London Itinerary. But if you have 72 hours, this plan will make your London trip unforgettable.