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If your usual holiday is out of your budget this year, or you’re looking for some much-needed stress relief, a day trip to London could be exactly what you are looking for.
However, with limited time on your hands, you should be sure to spend every minute wisely, which is where this guide comes in. Read on to discover how to spend the perfect day in London!
Arrive early and grab breakfast (or coffee). Try to arrive in the Big Smoke as early as you can, to spend as much time as possible in the city. Upon arrival, visit one of London’s many award-winning bakeries or coffee shops for a quick bite to eat. While you have plenty of options to choose from, Bar Italia in Soho is a particular favorite among Londoners. It’s known for its high-quality coffee and old-school charm, and has been open (and run by the same family) since 1949.
Before traveling, download Citymapper on your phone to figure out the quickest route from A to B.
Book a last-minute matinee. The West End is one of London’s finest contributions to the global culture scene. As such, you are definitely in for a treat if you manage to squeeze a matinee (afternoon show) into your day trip. Head to the TodayTix app at 10 am to secure last-minute tickets for the best possible prices (often starting at £25).
Head out on a tour of the city. Whether you are visiting London for the very first time or have stopped by in the past, a tour is the best way to get to know the city. This is because it’s the kind of place where history (and stories) lurk around every corner, no matter what topics you may be interested in. If you don’t want to spend hours on your feet, consider booking London Taxi Tours instead!
Grab some lunch. Once your tour is over, you’ll still have a little time to kill until your afternoon show starts. Fortunately, there are plenty of places to grab a quick bite to eat around the West End, including Chinatown. If you’d prefer a sit-down meal, use the Fork to take advantage of discounted dining offers.
Take a walk. After your show, start walking toward Trafalgar Square. From here, you can walk through Whitehall, taking in some of London’s most iconic sites. This includes Downing Street, Horse Guards Parade, the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. As such, it’s a great way to tick off some tourist hot spots, while also stretching your legs.
Finish your day in the South Bank. The Southbank is home to some of London’s best bars, restaurants, and views. If you are planning to stay a little later into the night, consider catching a screening or Q&A at the BFI (British Film Institute). Either way, it is the perfect place to wrap up your stay, with great transport links ensuring you can catch your train home easily.