If you’re wondering what to do in London for a day, this carefully crafted itinerary is designed to make the most of your short visit. From iconic landmarks like the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and Big Ben to a relaxing cruise along the River Thames, this guide covers all the must-see attractions and unique experiences. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a culture seeker, or simply want to capture the best of London, follow this one-day itinerary to immerse yourself in the heart of the city.
If you’re exploring more of Europe after your time in London, don’t miss our recommendations for the Best Places to Visit in Europe to plan your next adventure.
Morning: Start with the Tower of London and Tower Bridge
Tower of London (9:00 AM – 11:00 AM)
Begin your day at the historic Tower of London, one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. This ancient fortress, built in 1066 by William the Conqueror, is home to the dazzling Crown Jewels and steeped in nearly 1,000 years of British history. Here are the key highlights:
- The Crown Jewels: Marvel at over 23,000 precious stones that are part of the British Royal Regalia.
- The White Tower: Discover an impressive collection of historic armor and weapons inside the oldest part of the complex.
- Yeoman Warder (Beefeater) Tours: Don’t miss the chance to join a free tour led by the famous Beefeaters for fascinating stories about the Tower’s darker history.
- The Ravens: Keep an eye out for the resident ravens, protectors of the Crown according to legend.
Insider Tips: Arrive early to beat the crowds, and make the Crown Jewels your first stop. Also, explore the outer perimeter for some of the best views of the Tower and Tower Bridge.
Tower Bridge (11:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
Just a short walk from the Tower of London, Tower Bridge is a marvel of Victorian engineering. Take a tour to see the working engine rooms and walk along the famous glass walkway for stunning views over the River Thames.
- Glass Walkway: Suspended 42 meters above the river, the glass floor offers a thrilling perspective of the city.
- Tower Bridge Lift: Time your visit to see the bridge’s bascules raise to let ships pass through—a true spectacle.
Midday: Westminster and Big Ben (12:30 PM – 2:30 PM)
Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, and Westminster: Must-See in One Day
Next, head to Westminster to see Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, two of London’s most recognizable landmarks. Snap some photos from the nearby Westminster Bridge, where you’ll capture the full grandeur of the Elizabeth Tower that houses Big Ben.
Tour of Westminster Abbey
After soaking in the views, walk over to Westminster Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the coronation church of British monarchs. Founded in 960 AD, it’s filled with fascinating history:
- The Coronation Chair: The throne used for royal coronations since 1308.
- Poets’ Corner: Memorials to some of the greatest writers in English history, including Geoffrey Chaucer and Charles Dickens.
- Royal Tombs: Visit the resting place of 30 kings and queens, including Elizabeth I and Mary, Queen of Scots.
Insider Tip: Take a guided tour to access areas not open to general visitors, such as the Shrine of Edward the Confessor.
Plan your visit to Westminster Abbey with details available on their official website.
Afternoon: Visit Buckingham Palace and Enjoy a Thames River Cruise in a Day (3:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
Buckingham Palace
No visit to London is complete without seeing Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch. If your trip falls between July and September, take the rare opportunity to tour the State Rooms, showcasing some of the finest treasures from the Royal Collection.
If you’re planning to stay the night, check out our guide to the Best Hotels in London for luxury and budget options near iconic landmarks.
- Changing of the Guard: If you’re lucky, catch the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony in the palace forecourt. Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
Explore Buckingham Palace during the summer months by booking tickets via the Royal Collection Trust.
Thames River Cruise
Cap off your day with a Thames River Cruise, a relaxing way to see London’s skyline from a unique perspective. Glide past famous landmarks, including the London Eye, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, and Tower Bridge.
- Hop-On, Hop-Off Cruises: For flexibility, opt for a hop-on, hop-off ticket and explore landmarks at your own pace.
- Guided Tours: Many cruises provide live or audio commentary, offering insights into the history of the city as you sail.
For a scenic Thames River Cruise, book tickets with City Cruises.
Evening: Unwind in a Traditional English Pub After a Day in London (5:30 PM – 7:00 PM)
After a day of sightseeing, unwind in one of London’s historic pubs. The Prospect of Whitby or The George Inn are perfect spots to enjoy classic pub fare and a pint. Sample traditional dishes like fish and chips, bangers and mash, or a hearty Sunday roast. These atmospheric pubs offer a true taste of local life and are the perfect way to end your day in London.
Sample Itinerary Recap:
- 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Explore the Tower of London and Crown Jewels.
- 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Walk Tower Bridge and enjoy the views.
- 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM: Visit Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Abbey.
- 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Stroll around Buckingham Palace, see the Changing of the Guard.
- 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM: Cruise the River Thames.
- 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM: Relax in a traditional English pub.
FAQs
What are the top places to visit if I only have one day in London?
For a short visit, the top must-see attractions include the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and a Thames River cruise.
How do I make the most of one day in London?
Start your day early at the Tower of London, then head to Tower Bridge, Westminster Abbey, and Buckingham Palace. End with a relaxing cruise on the River Thames and a visit to a traditional pub.
Is one day enough to explore London?
While you can’t see everything in one day, this itinerary covers the city’s most iconic landmarks, giving you a memorable experience in a limited time.
