London in 3 Days: Where to Stay, What to See, and How to Do It Right

Welcome to London — Let’s Do It Right

If you’ve got just three days to explore London, this guide will help you do it in style — balancing the must-see landmarks with local gems and effortless comfort. It’s designed for first-time visitors who want to experience the best of the city while staying somewhere that feels like home.

At 20Property Stays, we specialise in staff accommodation, short-term and medium-term lets for professionals and contractors, and designer-inspired homes perfect for relocations or city getaways. Whether you’re here for business, leisure, or a little of both, our London property management team ensures your stay is seamless — from tenant sourcing and maintenance to Airbnb and HMO management that keeps every detail polished behind the scenes.

So unpack, settle in, and let’s make the most of your 72 hours in London — done right.

Day 1: Royal & Political Heart of London

Morning — Buckingham Palace & Westminster

Begin with a hearty English breakfast (think eggs, bacon, beans, and toast) at a café near your accommodation — you’ll want fuel for what’s ahead. Then head to Buckingham Palace for the Changing of the Guard — check the official schedule, as it doesn’t happen daily.

From there, stroll through St. James’s Park toward Westminster, where you’ll find:

• Westminster Abbey

• Houses of Parliament & Elizabeth Tower (Big Ben)

• Whitehall and Downing Street

• Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery

A guided walking tour is great for first-timers, but if you prefer to explore freely, the area is easily walkable.

Lunch — On the Move, but Smart

Grab a “Meal Deal” from Tesco or Boots (main + snack + drink) for under £5 — a British staple! Enjoy it riverside along the Thames or while relaxing in a park.

Afternoon — Culture & Iconic Experiences

Choose one or two attractions to focus on:

• Westminster Abbey (book ahead to skip queues)

• Houses of Parliament tour

• Buckingham Palace State Rooms (summer only)

• Thames River Cruise from Westminster to Tower Bridge

• Tate Britain or the London Transport Museum

If you’re not up for tours, simply enjoy a scenic walk along the Thames — there’s no shortage of photo ops.

Evening — Soho & Covent Garden

As night falls, head to Covent Garden for lively street performances, boutique shops, and vibrant energy. Nearby Soho and Chinatown are perfect for dinner — from gastropubs to Asian fusion spots. End your night with a cocktail at a hidden speakeasy or catch a West End show.

Day 2: The City, the Bridge, the Market

Morning — Sky-High Start

Wake up early and see London from above:

• Sky Garden (free but book in advance)

• The Garden at 120 (no booking needed)

• Duck & Waffle (24/7 restaurant with breathtaking views)

Mid-Morning — Riverside Walk

Take a relaxed stroll from Tower Bridge to Millennium Bridge, passing by:

• Tower of London

• Shakespeare’s Globe

• Tate Modern

• St. Paul’s Cathedral

Lunch — Borough Market

Indulge in world-class street food at Borough Market, London’s ultimate food haven. From artisan sandwiches to global dishes, this is a must for foodies.

Afternoon — Choose Your Vibe

Cultural route:

• Tower of London or Tower Bridge Exhibition

• St. Paul’s Cathedral interior

• Shakespeare’s Globe tour

Creative route:

• Explore Camden Market for vintage finds and canal walks

• Visit Shoreditch for art murals and trendy coffee spots

Evening — Local Energy

• Camden: live music, market strolls, canal bars

• Shoreditch: restaurants, rooftop cocktails, quirky experiences

• Or head back to the West End for a second show or night walk

Day 3: Elegant West London & Final Highlights

Morning — Notting Hill & Kensington

Start your day in Notting Hill — pastel homes, cozy cafés, and Portobello Road Market (especially vibrant on weekends). Then make your way to South Kensington, home to:

• The V&A Museum

• Natural History Museum

• Science Museum

• Kensington Palace

• Royal Albert Hall

Enjoy brunch or lunch in Holland Park or a nearby townhouse-style café.

Afternoon — Explore or Escape

Stay local for more museums, or venture out to:

• Kew Gardens

• Hampton Court Palace

• Warner Bros. Studio Tour (Harry Potter)

• Windsor Castle

Just plan travel time carefully so your evening remains stress-free.

Evening — The Perfect Goodbye

End your London trip your way:

• A final West End show

• A sunset dinner cruise on the Thames

• Drinks by Little Venice or Battersea

• Or a quiet stroll by the illuminated bridges of the Thames

Whatever you choose, raise a glass to 3 days well spent in one of the world’s most unforgettable cities.

Quick Tips for First-Timers

• Book in advance: Especially Sky Garden, Westminster Abbey, and Parliament.

• Use contactless cards: For Tube, buses, and trains.

• Plan smart: One to two key attractions per area.

• Enjoy free museums: National Gallery, Tate Modern, Natural History Museum.

• Mind closing hours: Many sites close earlier than expected.

Stay with 20Property Stays

As you explore London, your home base should be more than just a room — it should feel like a retreat managed with care.

At 20Property Stays, we provide:

• Staff accommodation and flexible short-term lets for contractors and professionals

• Stylish, fully equipped homes perfect for relocations or business travel

• Complete property management in London — from Airbnb hosting to HMO management and tenant sourcing

If you’re a landlord seeking stress-free management or a traveller looking for a home that blends comfort, design, and convenience — we’ve got you covered.

Let’s make your London experience not just memorable — but managed perfectly.