3-day budget-friendly London itinerary

London is one of the world’s most vibrant and exciting cities, but it can also be expensive. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy this incredible city on a budget! With this 3-day itinerary, you can explore London’s iconic sights, discover hidden gems, and even visit locations made famous by popular movies and series. From free museums and parks to budget-friendly eateries and accommodations, this London itinerary is perfect for anyone looking to experience the best of this city without blowing their budget.

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3-day budget-friendly London itinerary

DAY 1

After leaving your luggage at the hotel, get in the underground and get off at Westminster Station. From there you can access Big Ben, The London Eye, and Westminster Abbey.

Then walk over to Buckingham Palace, through St. James’s Park. If you arrive at Buckingham Palace by 11:00 am, you can watch the daily changing of the guards!

After Buckingham Palace, walk The Mall, toward Trafalgar Square. Here you’ll find the famous lion pillars, The National Gallery, and plenty of other landmarks.

From there, head north and explore Leicester Square, Piccadilly Circus, and Chinatown.

Don’t forget to grab a bite at a pub. No London trip is complete without some fish and chips and a pint.

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DAY 2

Start the day at London Bridge Station, and check out The Shard, just a few minutes away.

Then walk towards London Bridge, and cross it to the Tower of London. If you’re feeling like taking a tour of the Tower of London, be sure to book it in advance. (Alternatively, take London Bridge to get a view of the Tower Bridge).

From the Tower of London, take a short walk to Leadenhall Market, where you can explore a Victorian-era marketplace with stores, restaurants, and bars.

Then spend the afternoon fangirling around London. Have a movie or series that was filmed in London? How about a book or song that is based in London? Look up places you can visit that relate to that movie/series /book/etc! Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• For Harry Potter fans- There are PLENTY of places to see, but you should at least visit Platform 9 3/4 in King’s Cross and St. Pancras Station.

• For Sherlock Holmes fans – visit The Sherlock Holmes Museum. If you’re on a budget or don’t have time to see the museum, you can check out the store for free.

• For Beatles fans – Head to Abbey Road for an iconic photoshoot. Be sure to check out The Abbey Road Shop for a cool souvenir.

• For Paddington fans – Take a trip to Paddington Station and find the Paddington Bear Statue and store.

• For fans of history and ghosts – check out the Jack the Ripper Museum and/or take a ghost walking tour. The ghost walking tour I took was super cool and we learned about a lot of spooky things that have happened in London. It even included a boat ride through the River Thames. Check the tour out HERE.

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DAY 3

Spend the day at museums. London has a lot of free museums you can enjoy! You can check out the National History Museum, the British Museum, the Science Museum, and so many more.

OR

Book a day tour. You can find day tours to Stonehenge, Oxford, Downtown Abbey filming locations, and other nearby locations. Are you a Harry Potter fan? Drive or take a train to Leavesden and go on the Warner Bros Studio Tour!

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Where to stay in London

If you’re planning a trip on a budget and looking for affordable accommodation, you may want to consider staying in a hostel or Airbnb. Hostels are a great option for budget travelers as they offer shared or private rooms at a lower cost than hotels.

On the other hand, Airbnb offers a variety of options ranging from private rooms to entire apartments or houses, providing a more homely experience.

However, if you prefer a hotel, the area near Paddington Station is a good option for budget-friendly accommodation. You can find small but decent hotel rooms at an affordable price, making it a great choice for those who want a comfortable stay without breaking the bank. Additionally, the area is well-connected to other parts of the city, making it convenient for travelers to explore London.

So, whether you choose a hostel, Airbnb, or hotel, there are plenty of affordable options available in London.

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Bonus Tips:

• Purchase an Oyster card for discounted travel on London’s public transport system.

• Pack a water bottle and snacks to save money on food.

• Check museum websites for free entry days or evenings.

• Take advantage of London’s many free walking tours and cultural events.

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Like always, this itinerary is just a starting point – feel free to adapt it to your interests and budget. With a little planning and creativity, you can experience the best of London without breaking the bank! Have a magical and budget-friendly time in London!