London-Weekend Wonders: 48 Hours to Explore the Best of London

London has a very special place in my heart. Not only do I travel there often for my 9-5, London was my first time across the pond that made me fall in love with international travel, I owe a lot to London.

This guide is your perfect companion for a fast and furious 48 hour tour, from the historical treasures of Buckingham Palace to the cutting-edge vibes of Borough Market. We’ll explore cultural landmarks, indulge in delicious eats, and even find time for a tranquil stroll along the Thames. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat adventurer like myself, London is always ready to unfold new surprises. Pack layers, wear comfortable shoes, and prepare to capture the vibrant spirit of London in a weekend you won’t soon forget!

Day 1

Like I mentioned, I’ve been to London multiple times. There is always something to see, something new to explore. Every time you visit won’t be like the last but there are some MUST see MUST do things. Let’s jump right into your first day in London!

Hotel: In terms of hotels I have a couple that I have stayed in that I would recommend

• Budget Friendly: The Wellington is where I stayed my first time to London. It is a boutique hotel above a pub that serves free English breakfast that is great for the price and location.
• Luxury: The Ritz London if you’re looking for a luxury experience at this beautiful hotel
• Outside main area: For work, I often stay in Kings Cross which is a little further out from the main tourist areas but easily accessible by bus and tube. The Standard hotel is my favorite in this area.

Food

• Dishoom: renowned for its vibrant, Bombay-inspired décor and delicious Indian street food, making it a popular dining destination across the city with multiple locations.
• Honest Burger: famous for its juicy, handcrafted burgers made with high-quality British beef, paired with rosemary-salted chips, and served in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. AMAZING burgers
• Alexander the Great: Known for its authentic Mediterranean and Greek cuisine, this restaurant offers a delightful dining experience with a cute interior.

Activities

• Big Bus: If you’ve come across one of my blog posts before, I alwayssss recommend getting on a Big Bus or something similar when having a short visit. It takes you and drops you off in all the hot spots and gives you commentary along the way. Perfect way to get around London.
• Buckingham Palace: Visiting Buckingham Palace in London offers a glimpse into the British royal heritage, featuring the stunning State Rooms, the Changing of the Guard ceremony, and the beautiful palace gardens.
• Big Ben: Visiting Big Ben in London offers an iconic experience, allowing you to marvel at the grandeur of this historic clock tower and its intricate Gothic architecture, situated at the heart of the city beside the Houses of Parliament.
• London Eye: A ferris wheel with a beautiful view of London. Buy tickets in advance in summer season and be prepared for long wait times.

Day 2

On day 2 we continued our way through the hottest spots in London. Having the Big Bus ticket is definitely so helpful when getting around the city. Get ready for another day of adventure 🙂

Food

• Panella: Known for its authentic dishes and seasonal menu that changes daily, Panella offers a delightful selection of Sicilian street food, antipasti, pasta, and desserts, all crafted with traditional recipes and fresh ingredients.
• Zeret Kitchen: If you’re looking for something different and delicious try out Zeret. Specializing in Ethiopian cuisine, offering a delightful array of traditional dishes in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere​, this spot is perfect for dinner.
• BlackLock Soho: renowned for its exceptional steaks and relaxed atmosphere, holding a 4.7 rating. It’s a great spot for meat lovers seeking a top-notch dining experience​

Activities

• Borough Market: A must when visiting London. Go with an appetite because there are so many amazing eats in Borough Market. The viral chocolate covered strawberries are viral for a reason.. totally worth the hype.
• Harrods: Walk through Harrods for some shopping (or window shopping like me haha) it is a beautiful department store with luxury stores.
• Afternoon Tea: Having afternoon tea is a perfect way to spend an afternoon. Some places I would recommend are Cafe Royal, Candella Tea Room and the Savoy.

Conclusion

it’s clear that this city’s charm is as endless as its history. We’ve journeyed through centuries at the British Museum, savored global flavors at Borough Market, and captured panoramic views from the Shard. This itinerary barely scratches the surface, showcasing why London remains a top destination for travelers. Whether you came for the historical landmarks, the lush parks, or the vibrant nightlife, London promises a memorable experience with every visit.

Keep this guide handy for your next London adventure, as there’s always more to explore in this dynamic city. Until next time, keep the spirit of London alive and start planning your return to discover even more! If you liked this blog post, check out my 48 hours in Edinburgh Scotland, just a train ride away from London!