London in One Day Itinerary: The Best Things To Do, See & Eat For First Time Visitors

Best London in One Day 

How to visit London in a Day: Best Highlights + Exploration

Breakfast in London

For the perfect way to start a day in London, eat a delicious breakfast of your choice to start with lots of energy before exploring the city!

Even though I don’t normally eat breakfast back home or on vacation, when I’m traveling with my loved ones, I choose to and make time for it as a way to spend quality time with them.

I also don’t typically eat breakfast when I’m solo traveling. However, when I do, it’s because I’ve heard the breakfast is a must-try, as there’s something new I may not have tried before, like when the hotels have their own themed traditional or local breakfast and serve fresh local fruits or desserts that I probably can’t have back home.

Of course, I like new experiences, so I’d have breakfast then!

London Travel Tips

• If you only have one day in London, I recommend grabbing a quick breakfast to help maximize your time!
• If your hotel offers free breakfast, wake up a little early or ask if they can pack something to-go. Otherwise, there are usually plenty of cute cafés near hotels depending on where you stay.

Big Ben

If you have less than 24 hours in London, I recommend heading to Big Ben first, especially if it’s your first time in London.

Enjoy the scenery when walking across the Westminster bridge!

Planning to take the train? Hop on the London Underground to Westminster Station. As soon as you exit, you’ll be right next to this beautiful landmark ~ Big Ben!

London Travel Tips | Must-Know

• Westminster Station is the closest underground station to Big Ben.
• Tap in and out with contactless Apple Pay on your phone to pay to enter and exit the train station. Use the same card.

Hire a photographer in London

Looking for a private photographer in London? Want quality London vacation photos taken?

I highly recommend a kind friend I met while solo traveling in Morocco. She’s based in London. She took these high-quality photos! Please reach out to her here to inquire.

Westminster Abbey Church

If you’re at the Westminster Bridge, you can see Big Ben and the London Eye.  A nearby attraction you can see and photograph (if you have time), just 5-7 minutes away, is Westminster Abbey, a historic site in London.

It’s on the Parliament Square side, just a short walk from the bridge.

Even if you’re spending one day in London and have no time to book a timed ticket early, you can make a quick stop and snap a photo outside.

Then, if you want to go to the London Eye from here, do NOT take the train/tube. Walk toward Westminster Bridge. Once again, stop on the bridge for photos of more Big Ben and Parliament if you’d like, then continue along the South Bank to the London Eye.

Prefer a Guided Tour of London Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Buckingham? Book in advance.

London Eye

From Big Ben scenery, you can cross the bridge, go to the other side, and take photos of the London Eye.

You can see two London landmarks in this area as you explore and walk along the Westminster Bridge.

London Travel Tips

• Go down the stairs under the bridge by the river near Big Ben; you’ll find plenty of photo opportunities there. Expect to see people lining up for photos!
• Then, if you head toward the London Eye, consider taking the scenic walking route from the London Eye to Gabriel’s Wharf, Ernie’s Beach, Shakespeare’s Globe, Tate Modern, Millennium Bridge and St Paul’s Cathedral.

River cruise along the River Thames

Looking for a relaxed route and scenic views while listening to the guide describing London’s landmarks and tourist spots?

Consider a London river cruise for an introduction to the panoramic scenery of London’s landmarks with a live tour guide.

If you’re staying more than one day in London, or even if you’re short on time but would like to sightsee London on the water, this is a great choice for you ~ River Thames sightseeing tour from Westminster Pier.

Want to ride on the London Eye?

Enjoy unparalleled 360-degree views of the city, including Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and St Paul’s Cathedral from 135 meters high!

Book in advance: The London Eye Entry Ticket. I heard online tickets are cheaper than walk-up tickets.

Walk along the South Bank of the River Thames

Take a scenic walk from the London Eye as you wander along the River Thames to sightsee Gabriel’s Wharf, Ernie’s Beach, Shakespeare’s Globe, Tate Modern, Millennium Bridge and St Paul’s Cathedral.

I recommend going early, especially in the summer, as it can get really hot, or you can also bring an umbrella or a mini portable travel fan if you prefer.

This was the area around here that I found worth seeing.

London in the Summer

During the scenic walk, it depends on when you go, but based on our experiences, it’s very lively.

We saw plenty of street performances, food trucks, colorful little shops, cafés, and restaurants.

It’s a pleasant riverside atmosphere.

Don’t forget to try fresh smoothies or frozen yogurt if you happen to visit in the summer!

I think it’s worth the walk to enjoy the views of the city with an entertaining ambiance.

Millennium Bridge

The main highlight of the walk is the picturesque Millennium Bridge. Admire the scenery and a straight-on view of St Paul’s Cathedral as you cross toward the north side!

This is one of the most Instagrammable and best photo spots in London! So, I think it’s worth adding to your London in one day itinerary!

Want to see the cathedral become larger as you approach? Walk toward St Paul’s from the Tate Modern side!

Expect many people walking on the bridge unless you come early, but it’s still worth seeing!

St. Paul’s Cathedral

From the Millennium Bridge, walk for about ~10 minutes to reach St. Paul’s Cathedral. Enjoy the pleasant walk with the view! It’s worth adding to your London 1 day itinerary map if this aligns with what you want to see!

St. Paul’s Cathedral is worth visiting and adding to a London in a day tour! The dome, exterior, and interior were beautiful!

I always enjoy visiting cathedrals/churches whenever I travel to a new city or country!

There’s always something unique to see and appreciate. It’s also a great way to have a peaceful space to pray and express gratitude when traveling!

London Travel Tips | Must Know

• Wear comfortable shoes in case you want to climb to the Whispering Gallery, Stone Gallery, and Golden Gallery for scenic views of London.
• Check updated opening times before planning your visit.
• Don’t forget to take photos of the red telephone booth near the cathedral.

Regent Street (Saint James’s) and Waterloo Place

If you’re hungry and want to have an early lunch, there are sit-down restaurants and quick places to eat directly across  St. Paul’s Cathedral church. You can have your lunch here if you’d like.

Alternative:

Big Bus London Tour

Want a relaxed way to see more of London without needing to walk further and spend more money?

Are you visiting London for the first time, but feeling exhausted and jet-lagged on your first day?

Consider taking a BIG BUS tour to explore London’s main attractions and landmarks! It’s the perfect way to tour London in a day!

I highly recommend it, especially if you only have one day in London or less than 24 hours to see more of the city while getting a great introduction to London!

Honest Solo Travel Experiences

Big Bus tour is my favorite way to explore and SEE MORE of a new city, but walk and spend LESS. I’ve taken plenty of BIG BUS Tours from my solo travels around the world!

In fact, in December during my solo travels in London, I took and experienced an evening Big Bus London Christmas Lights Tour! It’s so magical, a perfect way to experience the Christmas spirit, so I highly recommend it if you’re traveling to London in the winter!  Enjoy the festive and colorful lights!

However, I’ll be honest, based on my experience, I enjoyed the BIG BUS New York night tour more! Perhaps because my New York solo travel experience was my first-ever BIG BUS evening lights tour, so it’s more memorable!

London Travel Tips

• Book a BIGBUS tour to see the main highlights. Sit on the open-top upper deck to see the best view of London.
• Don’t forget to check the weather first and bring a hooded raincoat or travel poncho.

Afternoon in London

Tower Bridge in London

On my first trip to London, we took an Uber to get to Tower Bridge. It’s too hot to walk since it’s summer in England!

However, if you want to save money, it takes 30 minutes to walk from St. Paul’s Cathedral to Tower Bridge. The walking route offers great views along the way to famous Tower Bridge.

Based on research, you can also take a direct bus from St. Paul’s to Tower Bridge Road for around £2. Considering the waiting and walking time, it may take 20+ minutes. So, I think it’s better to walk if it’s not too hot.

A trip to London is incomplete without seeing and snapping photos of Tower Bridge and Big Ben!

Remember, the world-famous iconic bridge with grand towers is the Tower Bridge! It’s the one that can be opened in the middle to let ships pass.

 Avoid this mistake | Must-Know Before You Go

• Let your Uber/taxi driver know that you’d like to go to Tower Bridge, NOT the London Bridge! It’s even better if you show pictures of where you want to go!

We made a mistake when we thought the famous Tower Bridge was the London Bridge when visiting London for the first time!

So when we took an Uber/taxi, we were surprised to be dropped off at the ordinary gray concrete bridge without towers. It’s not what we were intending to visit, so avoid this mistake when traveling to London!

•  Want to walk over the glass and the engine room of the Tower Bridge? Discover the highlights of this Tower Bridge Entry Ticket. Admire the views of St. Paul’s, The Shard, the Tower of London, and more, from 138 feet above the river.

Lunch in London with a View

 

Have the best lunch in London with a view of Tower Bridge! This dining area is at/near Gaucho Tower Bridge.

We enjoyed an outdoor dining along the River Thames in London with views of Tower Bridge and City Hall. Please note, it’s a bit more expensive, but worth it because the food was delicious with great views!

Based on research, a newer riverside dining spot with a beautiful view of Tower Bridge is Coppa Club London Bridge. That’s another nice restaurant you may want to add to your London in a day itinerary!

London Travel Tips

Want a quick grab-and-go lunch or another great option? Go to Borough Market, a nearby attraction from Tower Bridge.

I heard these are the top-rated spots for lunch in and around Borough Market:

• The Black Pig
• BAO
• Mallow Borough Market
• Arabica Borough Market

Southwark Cathedral, The Shard +/- Borough Market

After a delicious late lunch, consider exploring nearby attractions like the Southwark Cathedral, The Shard, and Borough Market.

They’re all very close together and within walking distance. If you decide to eat at the Borough Market and wander around the stalls, start there for food. Then, just 2 minutes from the market, you’ll reach the Southwark Cathedral.

If you want to head up to the viewing platform of THE SHARD, it’s a 5-minute walk from the cathedral. Enjoy an exciting 360-degree view of London from 800 feet above!

Did you know The Shard is considered the tallest building in the United Kingdom? Admire this modern, famous skyscraper in London towering behind the church.

Want to experience a memorable afternoon tea in London? While you’re around this area, it’s worth adding to a London in one day itinerary! Reserve early for the window seat and enjoy an afternoon tea with unobstructed views of London’s skyline!

+/-(optional)

Afternoon Tea in London

Looking for luxurious things to do in London? Enjoy a classic afternoon tea.

For me, it’s one of my favorite things to do in London. It’s absolutely worth it, so I highly recommend it, especially if it aligns with what you WANT to experience.

It is totally optional (your choice) to have afternoon tea at the Shard since it’s nearby if you follow this London in one day itinerary, or depending on where you stay, what works out, and what you prefer! Please remember to reserve in advance!

My honest afternoon tea experience in London

During my 2nd trip to London in December, I had my afternoon tea at JW Marriott Grosvenor House as a solo female traveler. What an amazing experience! I loved it so much that I hope to come back and experience it with my loved ones one day.

Even though this wasn’t my first afternoon tea experience, this one was truly the most memorable for me, not only because it’s in London, but because I truly enjoyed the entire time I was eating alone and experiencing the kind of solitude and serenity I wished and wanted to have. I appreciate how the staff accommodated my request to have this kind of experience.

The peaceful, elegant ambiance, delicious treats, and unique tea flavors made the whole experience extra special. The staff I encountered were so kind and accommodating.

I honestly felt like a princess being pampered the whole time!

Even though I don’t drink alcohol, the non-alcoholic champagne added an extra touch of elegance and made the experience feel even more fancy. The teas had distinctive and fragrant aromas. They smelled incredible and perfectly set the stage for a truly wonderful tasting experience!

My favorite part?

The freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam. So delicious! Of course, even the too-pretty desserts to eat! The main highlight was the charming chocolate tree, topped with the soft green apple cotton candy, with a little cloud of smoke when it was presented to me, which made it feel like a magical moment in a fairytale land!

I truly enjoyed my beautiful and enchanting experience filled with delicious flavors, lovely details, and a little bit of magic. If you visit London in one day, I highly recommend adding an afternoon tea to your London itinerary!

Alternative

Prefer an afternoon tea experience while sightseeing around London by bus?

It’s similar to the “Tea Around Town” experience I had in Austin, Texas.

• London Afternoon Tea Bus with Panoramic Tour

Sunset in London

Don’t just see the Tower Bridge! Walk across it before/at sunset!

Remember to stay on/around the south side and watch the sunset. Then, before it gets completely dark, walk along the Thames toward HMS Belfast and then visit Girl with a Dolphin.

Don’t forget to arrive 30 minutes before the exact sunset time. Take photos before, during, and after sunset when the bridge lights come on.

This is even better because you get two different looks at Tower Bridge: golden-hour bridge views and then the bridge illuminated after dark.

Evening in London

Girl with a Dolphin

Want a scenic view of the Tower Bridge? Head to the “Girl with a Dolphin” fountain on the north bank of the River Thames.

It’s a famous bronze fountain sculpture right next to Tower Bridge, near St Katharine Pier, showing a diving girl dancing and reaching down toward a dolphin.

The photos above were taken on my first trip to London in the summer.

The scenery at the Girl with a Dolphin fountain is absolutely picturesque and makes for a perfect photo opportunity when visiting London for the first time! It’s definitely one of the best photo spots in London to capture beautiful travel memories and one you won’t want to miss!

This was the 2nd location where I had my London professional photography taken!

Christmas Markets in London

Visit the charming Christmas market near Girl with a Dolphin fountain. Enjoy the Christmas spirit and the view!

Want quality London vacation photos taken? Consider hiring a private photographer!

I highly recommend this wonderful friend I met while solo traveling in Morocco. She’s based in London and captured these high-quality photos!

Feel free to reach out to her here if you’d like to learn more!

Alternative

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

A large festive Christmas market in London is Hyde Park Winter Wonderland.

If you’re visiting London in December and only have one day to explore, it’s one of the best must-see attractions to experience the Christmas spirit in London!

There are plenty of attractions to enjoy at the park! It’s a great option, particularly if you’re staying near this area in London.

London Travel Tips

• Reserve your entry tickets in advance here.
• Christmas Lights Tours

Covent Garden

If you have more time in your one day in London, visit Covent Garden, especially if you’re traveling to London in December! See the festive holiday decorations inside the market building!

Enjoy wandering through the charming streets, historic markets, shopping, hidden courtyards, unique architecture, and watching street performers!

Admire the illuminated Christmas displays and experience the lively winter atmosphere here!

London Travel Tips | Must-Know 

• Explore many of the highlights for free! The Piazza, market, street entertainment, Neal’s Yard, and Seven Dials!
• Neal’s Yard and Seven Dials are famous for some of London’s best photo spots.
• Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Covent Garden Piazza and Market Building!
• Expect higher prices for restaurants, shopping, and theatre shows.
• Try to visit on a weekday. It was crowded when I went, but it’s very lively!
• Wear comfortable shoes!

Dinner in London at Iconic British Pubs

Experience a historic pub serving classic pub food!

If you’re looking for a great place to eat in Covent Garden, I definitely recommend considering adding The White Lion to your London one-day itinerary!

My honest experiences eating at historic British Pubs

While we were in Covent Garden, we decided to eat at The White Lion, and we’re so glad we did! The food and drinks were absolutely delicious, and we really enjoyed the overall experience.

Expect some traditional pubs are small and cozy, but that didn’t take away from enjoying our meal.

Remember to try the classic fish and chips with mushy peas, especially if it’s your first time visiting London!

I’ve ordered and tried fish and chips in Australia, Ireland, Canada, and the United States, and I can honestly say the one I tried in London was the best I’ve had so far in this pub!

My exact order was the Nicholson’s Fish & Chips (Hand-battered haddock in Nicholson’s Pale Ale, chunky chips, mushy peas, and tartare sauce) and their signature non-alcoholic drink (Elderflower, lime, and mint).

Alternative (s)

UK Parliament at Night

One of the best alternative things to do in London in one day at night is to see the UK Parliament, Big Ben, and the London Eye!

I think it’s best enjoyed when illuminated in the evening! So even if you only have one day in London, it’s worth stopping to snap some photos!

London Eye at Night

Enjoy the vibrant riverside atmosphere and illuminated landmarks when you walk across Westminster Bridge!

Admire the colorful riverwalk, the Houses of Parliament, and Big Ben lit up. Then, capture photos of the London Eye glowing in changing lights at night.

Want to experience a thrilling attraction with amusingly scary historical storytelling that’s nearby?

Reserve your London Dungeon tickets in advance!

It’s about a 2-minute walk from the London Eye! You can find both attractions at the riverside at County Hall on the South Bank of the River Thames.

National Theatre (Evening Show)

Interested in watching live stage productions?

End your day in London at the National Theatre and enjoy a live performance! Choose from classic works to modern productions.

Remember to check the schedule and reserve tickets early, especially for popular shows, to guarantee your seat!

Solo Travel in London | Unexpected but Meaningful Experiences 

Watching a live show at the National Theatre was not in my original itinerary. Unexpectedly and thankfully, I met Opal from Thailand while exploring Notting Hill when I kindly asked her to take my photo in front of the bookstore. We were both solo travelers in London, yet somehow, we instantly clicked.

She invited me to watch a live show of Nicola Coughlan, whom she absolutely loves from Bridgerton! I was so happy to share that experience with her.

If there’s one lesson my solo trip to London taught me, it’s that God still has a purpose for me ~ and I finally understood why I continue to solo travel the world.

Looking back on my December Europe trips, I realized that part of my purpose is to help and inspire other female solo travelers to create and experience unforgettable memories. If I hadn’t been traveling alone, I may never have met Opal and helped make one of her dreams come true.

Her words stayed with me: “Thank you so much for stopping me to take a picture at Notting Hill, or else I wouldn’t have had this much fun in London! Because of you, one of my dreams came true. I’m so happy and feel so lucky to have met you. You made my London experience so much more memorable.”

Honestly, hearing her say those words genuinely and almost tearfully made me realize that I don’t just solo travel to see the world, fulfill my dreams, or document my adventures. Maybe part of my journey is to help make someone else’s travel journey a little more meaningful, joyful, and worth remembering, too.

And to all the girls I’ve met through my previous solo travels ~ those I’ve shared laughter, adventures, and beautiful memories with, and those who visit my blog from time to time ~ if you’re reading this, please know how grateful I am for you. 🙂

I’m honestly getting teary-eyed as I write this because you are also part of the reason my solo travels have become so meaningful and memorable. Your kindness, trust, friendship, and the memories we’ve shared continue to remind me that I was never truly alone when I travel solo, as you all helped me discover and fulfill a deeper purpose in my travels.

Thank you for being part of the reason I continue to be brave and keep traveling even if solo. You have made my journeys more meaningful, inspiring me to keep going, keep exploring, and keep being brave ~ not only for myself, but also to be a source of encouragement and inspiration for other women who dream of doing the same.

May this post about London in one day help you plan your London trip to include the best things to do, must-see attractions, scenic views, where to eat, best photo spots and travel tips (First-Timer’s Guide)

I hope this London travel blog gives you the most memorable experience that aligns with what you’re looking to experience!

~ One Day Travel Posts ~ Read next:

• Paris in One Day: The Ultimate First-Timer’s Guide to 21 Best Things to Do
• Venice in One Day Itinerary: First Timer’s Planning Guide + Must-Know Tips
• Florence in One Day Itinerary: What to prioritize & experience for your first visit!
• Rome in One Day: Best Itinerary For First-Time Visitors (Must-Do, See & Eat)
• Innsbruck in One Day (Austria): 13 Best Highlights for First-Time Visitors ( + itinerary )
• Bruges in One Day: 16 Best Things To Do, See & Eat For Your First Visit
• Amsterdam in One Day Itinerary: Best Things to Do, See & Eat (First Timer’s Guide)
• Toronto in One Day: Best Itinerary for a Long Layover & First-Time Visitors
• Macau in One Day [Day Trip from Hong Kong] (Steps how to get there by bus + itinerary)
• Hong Kong in One Day: Easy Itinerary

Thank you for considering this London in one day itinerary created especially if you’re traveling to London for the first time! I hope I have sparked your London trip planning!

~ Safe travels, and enjoy visiting London, England ~

Other posts you may like …

• DON’T FORGET these 29 Travel Essentials for International Travel!
• 13 Best Vacation Ideas For Singles That You Have to Experience