London: A 2-Day Itinerary

If you arrive on an early flight, head straight to your hotel to drop off your luggage, freshen up, and get ready to start exploring. With only 48 hours to spend, planning your activities in advance is the best way to make the most of your time. We booked an afternoon tour of Kensington Palace, which lasted about an hour. Before the tour, we stopped at a nearby pub, Greene King Bag of Nails, to grab a bite to eat. We enjoyed a classic English lunch—fish and chips, a hearty meat pie, and an excellent pint of beer. To stay on schedule and save time, it’s a good idea to make dinner reservations before your trip.

Plan your day ahead of time and organize your activities by location—London is a large city, and figuring out logistics is key to making the most of your visit. Try to check off the sights in one area before moving on to the next to save time and energy. The Tube is a quick and convenient way to get around the city. If it’s your first visit to London, consider joining a group or private tour to get a great introduction to the city’s highlights.

If you feel like you’ve seen everything London has to offer and are craving a little escape, consider visiting one of the charming towns near the airport. We chose Richmond upon Thames, the picturesque town where Ted Lasso was filmed. It’s just a short ride from central London by taxi or train. Richmond is full of cozy pubs, unique shops, and beautiful green spaces. You can spend the afternoon exploring the town, renting a bike to ride along the river, or enjoying a picnic in the park. Our favorite moment, though, was relaxing at The White Cross Pub, watching the tide slowly rise all the way up to the steps—it was the perfect way to unwind after a busy day in the city.