The London Must Do's: From an Ex Study Abroad Student

London baby! Welcome to your first weekend in London, a city comparable in size to New York. With tons to do and no idea where to start, here is your ultimate guide as a first time tourist in this big, beautiful city when you only have three days to spend.

Traveling to London

Take an early flight in! There is lots to see in the city and it is important to make the most of your time. If you have to wake up a bit early to get from your host city to London, I promise it is worth it.

Welcome to Westminster

Westminster is the area of London that is home to the majority of the most well known tourist destinations. Here, you'll be able to walk to the London Eye, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and Trafalgar Square, all in a few hours. This is the best way to ensure you see all of the tourist destinations you want to see. Start at the eye and make your way to Big Ben, the Abbey, Buckingham, then end with Trafalgar, which will lead you to your next destination

Seven Dials and Covent Garden and Dinner

Right above Trafalgar Square is Seven Dials and Covent Garden, an area of London filled with shops. Walk around! Shop til you drop! But save your money for later on! While you're there, grab some dinner at Punjab, one of the best Indian restaurants. With ooey gooey cheese naan and affordable prices, Punjab is one of the best dinner options in Covent Garden. You could always wait out the line for Dishoom, another of the most well known Indian restaurants in London. If you want traditional Indian food, go Punjab, if you want some unique flavors, wait in the line for Dishoom.

See a Show in the West End

The West End is known for plays. London is one of the most booming cities for on stage acting. So go spend a bit of money and see a play. Oftentimes actors you know and love will be on stage in these shows as well. See what's playing, check reviews and buy a ticket! End your night with some drinks at The Alchemist and go to bed to prepare for your busy Saturday.

Saturday

The Tower of London

One of London's most notable tourist spots is the Tower of London. Book a tour and go look inside. The original structure still stands and the area is rich in history and culture. Take a peak at the Crown Jewels and see where some of Henry the VIII's wives were sent to die. This place is definitely worth a tour if you like history.

Borough Market

One of TikTok's favorite spots in London is just a short walk away from the Tower. With every kind of food you could possibly imagine and chocolate covered strawberries that I feel are worth every penny, Borough Market has it all. Take a walk through and try new things. You cannot leave the market hungry.

South Bank and The Tate

After your belly is stuffed, walk it off along the South Bank. With stunning views of the city, a look at Shakespeare's Globe, and the Thames River, you are sure to enjoy the walk. When you reach the big building off the path, you've hit your destination. Welcome to the Tate Modern, one of London's many art museums. With modern works that will leave you intrigued, it is the perfect way to explore some of the art culture of London.

Millennium Bridge, St. Paul, Dinner, and Drinks

End your day walking across the Millennium Bridge, featured in many on screen films. The bridge leads you right up to St. Paul's Cathedral, one of the most beautiful and notable areas of London. After, find a great spot for dinner and drinks and maybe try out a bar or club. London Nightlife can be super fun and exciting, join in!

Sunday

A Morning In Notting Hill

Start your morning right! With bakeries all around and the aesthetic Notting Hill Shopping Bag in your arm, grab a scone and shop at Portobello Market. With jewelry and art for sale on the streets, there is truly something for everyone. And don't forget to stop by the travel book store, which is 100% more crowded than Hugh Grant's was when Julia Roberts walked in.

Primrose Hill

For beautiful panoramic views of the city, make your way to Primrose Hill, an upscale area with a perfect view of the London Skyline. With shops and potential celeb sightings, you are sure to fall in love with this beautiful area.

Camden Market

For one last stop before you head to your flight, walk around Camden Market. Once an old tube station, the market is now the go to place for shopping. With a bit of an edgier and more vintage feel than Portobello, you are sure to find something here if you couldn't in Notting Hill. Camden is also full of food. A similar style to Borough Market, there is something for everyone. Feed yourself and head to the airport for a late night flight back to your host city.

Conclusion

That wraps up your perfect weekend in London. With some food recommendations and more activities than you can imagine, feel free to swap any of these with some options we have on our website. London is a beautiful city with something for everyone.