So you just have ONE Day in the exciting city of London and are confused about how to make the most of your day? I have got some great tips for you, to help you spend the perfect day in London...so read on to know more!!
This Post is based on the assumption that your day begins at a typical hotel check-in time of 2 pm and the next day's check-out time at 12 pm. You can add /replace or omit things as per your preference.
Decadent Diaries Travel Tips
The Subway System or as it's fondly known the Tube is your friend, it will help you make the most of your short stay in London to get from place to place fast and efficiently. Get an Oyster card from any nearby underground station and top up as you go, it can be used on all forms of public transport in London. Do not forget to tap in and tap out the card after every journey!
Download the TFL Go app on your phone, this is to help you chart out the best routes from point A to B using the public transport in London - Tube, Bus etc.
Carry a Credit or Debit Card with you, as many restaurants have gone cashless since Covid.
Chose a hotel nearby a Tube station to make traveling around London easier.
Carry an umbrella, London is rainy!
1. BOROUGH MARKET
Perhaps one of the most famous food markets in London, Borough Market has something to satisfy even the pickiest eater. Do not miss out the stuffed donuts at Bread Ahead bakery and the newest viral sensation Humble Crumble. Borough Market is a daytime market that closes by 5 pm, so it is best to head there during lunchtime to be able to see the market at its most vibrant.
Time Spent: 3 pm to 4:30 pm (leave hotel room by 2:30 after check-in and proceed by Tube to Borough Market)
2. TOWER BRIDGE/SKY GARDEN
Close to the Borough Market is the Famous Tower Bridge, where almost everyone likes to get the ideal Instagram-able picture! However, an even better way to not only see Tower Bridge but all the bridges and glimpses of many other famous sights of London with stunning views is the Sky Garden. Head to the nearest station Monument by Tube and do not forget to take a prior reservation on the Sky Garden website well in advance before your trip, the reservations till 5 pm are free.
Time Spent: 5 pm to 6:30 pm
3.COVENT GARDEN
Head over to the famous Covent Garden Area, which is filled with the top brands to shop and endless options for you to choose from for dinner. This is the hub of excellent restaurants so do not miss out! Do a simple google map search of nearby restaurants which are top-rated and suit the cuisine you wish to try out. If you are looking to try a specific highly rated restaurant, please do not forget to take prior reservation days or weeks in advance to get the time of your choice as this area is really popular with locals and tourists alike, simply click on reserve from google maps on the restaurant's google listing.
Time Spent: 7 pm to 9:30 pm (counting shopping and dinner)
My recommendations: Wahaca for Mexican, Din Tai Fung for Asian, Cote for French, Bancone for Italian, Clos Maggiore for European and Fatt Pundit For Indian Fusion.
4. PICCADILLY CIRCUS
To end this day, take a 10-minute walk from Covent Garden to Piccadilly Circus, while crossing Leicester Square as well on your route (covering another famous point). Piccadilly Circus is London's equivalent of New York's Time Square. At night you will get the best shots with the entire place lit up ending your day here with some wonderful memories.
Take a Tube from Piccadilly Circus Station back to your hotel once you are done!
5.BIG BEN, WESTMINSTER AND BUCKINGHAM PALACE
The next morning after an early breakfast, head by Tube to Westminster Station and from there you can explore the Iconic Westminster Abbey. Head to Westminster Bridge and get some cool views of the Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster, the seat of the UK Government. If you have some time take a walk through the scenic St. James Park to reach Buckingham Palace. You may not be able to explore it from inside considering the time constraints of just a day, but you can enjoy the beauty of this palace from outside as well. You can also take the tube from Westminster to St James Park station if you do not wish to walk.
Time Spent: 8:30 am to 11 am
So there you have it! Just a day, some iconic spots, some great food and a wonderful glimpse into this great city. If you have more days in London, do read my other posts for other ideas to make the most of your trip.
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