Curator’s statement
London holds a special place in my heart—I’ve visited four times, and each trip only deepens my love for this wonderful city. London is a perfect blend of rich history and vibrant modern life, where every corner reveals stunning architecture and centuries-old stories. As an American, it’s awe-inspiring to walk through streets and buildings older than our entire country. And as a tea lover, experiencing a traditional afternoon tea in London was a dream come true—one I’ll never stop recommending. With its endless museums, layered history, diverse food scene, and lively pub culture, London truly has something for everyone.
The Fora Difference
Book with Bria to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay
Unlock perks by contacting Bria to book your trip.
Day 1: Royals, landmarks & London icons
Buckingham Palace with flowers blooming in the Queen's Garden
Begin your trip with a royal welcome. This walkable route takes you from the gates of Buckingham Palace through leafy parks, past Parliament, and ends at one of London’s most lively squares. It’s the perfect way to kick off your time in the city with all the iconic must-see sights.
Buckingham Palace
Start your morning here to catch the Changing of the Guard (usually at 11 am, but arrive 15–30 minutes early for a good spot—and check the schedule ahead of time!). Even if there’s no ceremony, the grandeur of the palace gates makes for a memorable first stop.
St. James’s Park
Walk through London’s oldest royal park, known for its swan-filled lake, flower beds, and postcard-perfect views of the palace and London Eye. It’s a lovely, peaceful transition toward central Westminster.
Westminster Abbey
A short walk away, this Gothic cathedral has hosted royal weddings, coronations, and funerals for centuries. It’s as breathtaking inside as out—go in if you have time.
Big Ben and Houses of Parliament
Just around the corner, stop for classic views of Big Ben and the ornate Parliament buildings along the Thames. Best photo angle? From across Westminster Bridge.
Trafalgar Square
Wrap up your day in this bustling square, home to fountains, statues, and the National Gallery. A great spot for people-watching, photos, or a relaxed drink nearby.
From here, you’re perfectly positioned to continue into the West End for dinner, drinks, or a show. If you’re up for it, catch a play or musical at one of the nearby theaters, or stroll over to vibrant Chinatown for a post-dinner treat.
Where to eat:
Lunch near Westminster: Cellarium Café (hidden gem at Westminster Abbey) or St. Stephen’s Tavern for a pint and pub fare
Dinner and drinks near Trafalgar Square: Try The Chandos for a cozy pub vibe or Dishoom Covent Garden for an upscale, buzzy dinner.
Insider tip: If you’re jet-lagged, this scenic walk helps you stay outdoors and moving—perfect for adjusting to the time zone.
Day 2: Time travel, treasures & afternoon tea
A classic English afternoon tea
Today is all about uncovering the layers of London’s past—from ancient relics to royal secrets—with a few indulgent bites in between. This itinerary blends world-class museums, landmark architecture, and traditional British fare, ending at one of the city’s most iconic castles.
The British Museum
Start your morning immersed in history at this massive (and free!) museum, home to legendary artifacts like the Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles, and ancient Egyptian mummies. Arrive early to beat the crowds and focus on the highlights—it’s easy to spend hours here.
Afternoon tea
After the museum, take a short stroll to enjoy a quintessentially British afternoon tea. Go classic at Fortnum & Mason, with its refined Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon, or opt for something playful and design-forward at Sketch in Mayfair. Either way, it’s a delicious and very photogenic break, and my personal favorite London activity. (Despite its name, you can have afternoon tea as early as 11 am.)
St. Paul’s Cathedral
Hop on the Tube or grab a taxi to this stunning domed cathedral, a masterpiece by Sir Christopher Wren. Don’t miss the chance to climb to the Whispering Gallery—or higher—for panoramic views across the city.
Borough Market
Head south of the river to wander one of London’s most beloved food markets. Even if you’re still full from tea, the atmosphere is worth it—plus, there’s always room for a snack or a glass of wine.
Tower of London
End your day at this riverside fortress, home to the Crown Jewels, and a thousand years of British history. Take a guided tour with a Beefeater (a ceremonial guardian of the Tower of London) to hear the tales of royal intrigue, imprisonment, and execution. Arrive by 4 pm to allow plenty of time to explore before closing.
As evening sets in, walk across Tower Bridge for a stunning sunset view—then head into nearby neighborhoods like Bermondsey or Shoreditch for drinks. Bermondsey is known for its intimate wine bars and hidden cocktail spots (try Nine Lives or The Hide Bar), while Shoreditch brings the buzz with creative pubs and rooftop lounges like Queen of Hoxton.
Where to eat:
Lunch: Consider skipping a full lunch and going straight from the British Museum to a hearty afternoon tea
Dinner near the Tower: Coppa Club with igloo-style seating and Thames views or Gunpowder Tower Bridge for bold Indian-inspired small plates
Insider tip: For a magical end to your day, grab a nightcap at Sky Garden, London’s free rooftop garden with sweeping skyline views. Entry is free but timed—book in advance to watch the city light up after dark.
Also, make sure you book your afternoon tea in advance!
Day 3: Parks, palaces & picture-perfect views
Views from the London Eye
Spend your final day soaking up some of London’s most beautiful neighborhoods—from royal palaces and peaceful parks to iconic shopping streets and a sunset ride on the London Eye. This final day is all about enjoying the best of London’s lifestyle: stylish, scenic, and full of charm.
Kensington Palace
Begin your morning at this elegant royal residence, once home to Princess Diana and now the official London residence of Prince William and Princess Kate. Stroll through the gardens before stepping inside to explore the palace’s exhibits and royal apartments.
Hyde Park
Walk east through Kensington Gardens into Hyde Park, one of the largest and most beloved green spaces in the city. Rent a bike, grab a coffee at the Serpentine Bar & Kitchen, or simply enjoy the people-watching as you pass Speaker’s Corner and the Serpentine Lake.
Oxford Street
Exit the park near Marble Arch and dive into London’s busiest shopping district. Whether you’re window shopping or hunting for souvenirs, this stretch offers everything from British department stores like Selfridges to high-street fashion and quirky London finds.
Piccadilly Circus
Just a short walk or quick Tube ride away, this buzzing square is often compared to Times Square—filled with big screens, energy, and nearby theaters. It’s a great spot to rest for a bit and take in the city’s pulse.
London Eye
Head down to the South Bank for a perfect finale to your trip. Hop on the London Eye around sunset for sweeping views across the Thames and the entire city—it’s touristy, yes, but for good reason. Time it right and you’ll watch the city glow as day turns to night.
After your ride, wander along the South Bank promenade where street performers, musicians, and river views bring the evening to life. Cap off your night with a cocktail at Lyaness, a chic, award-winning bar inside the Sea Containers hotel, or enjoy post-dinner drinks at OXO Tower Bar, both offering skyline views and a stylish sendoff.
Where to eat:
Lunch near Hyde Park: The Serpentine Bar & Kitchen, a casual lakeside café, or head to Aubaine at Selfridges for a stylish bite while shopping
Dinner near the South Bank: Gillray’s Steakhouse for river views and British classics, or Skylon inside the Royal Festival Hall for a modern, elegant dinner
Insider tip: The London Eye gets busy in the late afternoon, so book your tickets in advance—and aim for a time slot around golden hour for the best photos.
Need to know
London is a massive, fast-paced city with endless neighborhoods to explore, museums to wander, and restaurants to try. There’s no way to see it all in three days, but this itinerary hits many of the major highlights. That said, if there’s something you’re especially passionate about—like recreating the Beatles’ iconic album cover at the Abbey Road crossing or visiting the Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studio Tour—you can absolutely fit it in with a bit of planning (just be prepared for a few packed days!).
Getting around is easy thanks to London’s excellent public transportation. The Tube (underground metro) is safe, efficient, and well-connected—I highly recommend getting an Oyster card or using contactless payment via your credit card or phone for quick access. You’ll do plenty of walking too, so comfortable shoes are a must. And don’t forget to stand on the right of the escalator—it’s an unwritten rule that locals take very seriously!
A few more insider tips:
Many of London’s top museums, like the British Museum, Natural History Museum, and Tate Modern, are free, making it easy to pop in without feeling pressured.
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected. Round up at cafes or leave 10–12.5% at restaurants if service isn’t already included.
Weather is unpredictable year-round, so bring a compact umbrella or rain jacket just in case. I’ve been to London when it was sunny in October and rainy and cold in June, so you never know!
Travel Advisor
Bria Rosenberg
Get in touch with Bria
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can expect a response from Bria within 1–2 business days. You’ll also be subscribed to our traveler newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our London page.