10 Tips for Seeing London in a Day

Last Updated on 22 October 2025

Do you only have one day to explore the City of London? Don’t worry, it is possible to see many of the city’s highlights in just 24 hours with the right plan. London is a city packed with history, culture, and iconic sites, and while a single day won’t cover everything, you can still experience an unforgettable slice of what the city has to offer.

Before you hit the ground running, be sure to drop off any bags or heavy things using a service like London Luggage Storage. Carrying bags around London is not only exhausting but also very inconvenient and slows you down, especially if you’re relying on public transport or planning to do a lot of walking. Now that you’ve dropped your luggage, let’s take a look at how you can make the most of your day in London.

Image source: Pexels

1. Start early at Westminster. To get the most out of your day, begin as early as you can. There’s no better starting point than Westminster. This area houses some of London’s most iconic landmarks within walking distance of one another. Visit Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. If you get there early enough, you’ll beat the crowds and have a chance to take great photos in the morning light. The Abbey opens at 9:30 in the morning, so try to time your arrival accordingly. 
2. Walk along the South Bank. From Westminster across Westminster Bridge and head along the South Bank of the river, this pedestrian friendly pathway offers fantastic views of the London Eye. And if you’re not afraid of heights and have a little time to spare, a 30 minute ride gives you the stunning panoramic views of the city. Keep walking to pass street performers, food stalls and iconic venues.
3. Snap a photo at Tower Bridge. Continue along the Thames to one of London’s most recognisable structures, Tower Bridge. It’s a bit of a walk from the South Bank, around 30 to 40 minutes depending on your pace, but it’s scenic and it’s well worth it. If time allows, you can tour the engine rooms or walk the glass walkway, but even just snapping photos from the outside is memorable. You’ll also spot the Tower of London nearby historic fortress that’s home to the Crown Jewels. 
4. Grab a quick lunch at Borough Market. Not far from Tower Bridge is Borough Market, one of the best food markets in the city. Whether you’re after classic fish and chips, street food or a vegan falafel wrap, there’s something for everybody. It’s a quick and delicious way to refuel before the next leg of your adventure.
5. Hop on the tube to Trafalgar Square. To save time, take the London Underground, AKA the Tube, to Charing Cross or Embankment and walk to Trafalgar. This historic Plaza is a bustling spot with street performance, though towering Nelson’s Column and the famous National Gallery. If you’re an art fan, you may want to duck inside. Admission is free, and the collection includes works by Van Gogh, Monet and Da Vinci.

Image source: Pexels

6. Go for a wander through Covent Garden. Just a short walk from Trafalgar Square is Covent Garden, and it’s a charming neighborhood filled with shops, cafes and live performances. It’s a great place to grab a coffee, watch the people around you or browse the stalls. The historic covered market adds a lovely backdrop for your stroll, and if you time it right, you might catch a string quartet or a theatrical street act.
7. Visit Buckingham Palace. No trip to London is complete without seeing Buckingham Palace, the residents of the British monarch. You can reach it via a pleasant 15 minute walk through St. James’s Park from Trafalgar Square or Covent Garden. If you’re lucky, you might catch the changing of the guard, but even without it, the palace’s facade and the surrounding gardens are iconic.
8. Hit Piccadilly Circus and Soho for the evening. As the sunsets make your way to Piccadilly Circus, London’s answer to Times Square. It’s bright, bustling and surrounded by restaurants, theatres and nightlife. Nearby Soho offers a huge range of food options, from Michelin star cuisine to casual street food. It’s the perfect area to enjoy some dinner and soak up the London atmosphere.
9. Catch a show. If you’re into theatre and have a bit more energy or time, grab a ticket to a West End show. London’s theatre scene is world renowned and even catching a shorter performance can be a wonderful way to wrap up your day. Be sure to check for same day tickets at discount booths like TKTS in Leicester Square if you haven’t booked in advance.
10. End with a view at the Sky Garden or The Shard. For a memorable finale, head to one of London’s best viewpoints. The Sky Garden offers free access with an advanced booking to rooftop garden and sweeping views of the city skyline. Alternatively, The Shard offers a more upscale but breathtaking experience with one of the highest observation decks in Europe. Both are excellent options to toast your one day adventure with a drink in a view.

Bonus tips to make your day perfect.

• Use Contactless Payment: The easiest way to pay for public transport in London is using a contactless card or phone. No need to buy an Oyster card for a one-day visit.
• Plan Your Route: Use apps like Citymapper or Google Maps to navigate efficiently. London is large, but the Underground can get you almost anywhere fast.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking – even with the Tube – so comfort is key.
• Book Tickets in Advance: If you’re sure you want to visit specific attractions like the London Eye or West End shows, booking in advance can save time and money.

It’s ambitious to want to see London in a day, but it is doable. All you need is a little bit of planning and a good pair of walking shoes. From historic landmarks and Riverside walks to delicious food and world class entertainment, London offers something for every traveller.