London, the capital of England, is a city that has something for everyone. From its rich history and cultural landmarks to its vibrant nightlife and diverse culinary scene, there's no shortage of things to see and do in this great city. But, if you only have 36 hours to spend in London, you'll need to prioritize. Here's a guide to help you make the most of your time in this amazing city.
Getting There
Before we dive into the fun stuff, let's talk about getting to London. London is well-connected to the rest of the world, with five international airports: Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and City Airport. Heathrow is the busiest and most convenient, with direct flights from many major cities. From the airport, you can take the Tube (London's subway system) or a taxi to get to your hotel.
Accommodation
London has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels, you'll find something that fits your needs. If you're looking for a central location, consider staying in Covent Garden, Soho, or the West End. These areas are close to many of London's main attractions and have a lively atmosphere.
Day One: Morning
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a traditional English café or bakery. Try a full English breakfast, which typically includes bacon, eggs, sausages, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, and toast. Wash it down with a strong cup of tea or a freshly squeezed orange juice. Click here to get the ideal knowledge about the 36 hours in london.
After breakfast, head to Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch. Watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which takes place daily at 11:30 am from April to July and on alternate days the rest of the year. Take a stroll through St. James's Park, which offers beautiful views of the palace and the city.
Next, visit the British Museum, one of the world's greatest museums. With a collection of over 8 million objects, you could easily spend days exploring the museum's many galleries. Be sure to see the Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles, and the mummies in the Ancient Egypt gallery.
Day One: Afternoon
After lunch, head to the Tower of London, a historic fortress that has served as a palace, prison, armory, and even a zoo over the centuries. See the Crown Jewels, the Yeoman Warders (also known as Beefeaters), and the famous ravens that live on the premises. Don't forget to take a walk along the Tower's walls, which offer stunning views of the city.
In the afternoon, take a walk along the South Bank of the Thames, which offers great views of the river and the city. Stop by the National Theatre, the British Film Institute, and the Hayward Gallery, which are all located along the South Bank.
Day One: Evening
In the evening, head to Covent Garden, a historic square that's now a popular spot for shopping, dining, and entertainment. See a show at the Royal Opera House, which is home to the Royal Ballet and the Royal Opera. Alternatively, catch a comedy show or live music performance at one of the many bars and clubs in the area.
For dinner, try a traditional English pub, such as the Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem or the Spaniards Inn. These pubs offer a range of classic dishes, including fish and chips, bangers and mash, and shepherd's pie. Wash it down with a pint of real ale or a glass of wine.
Day Two: Morning
Start your second day in London with a visit to the iconic Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. Take a guided tour of the parliament building, which offers a glimpse into British politics and history. Be sure to see the famous clock tower, which is officially known as the Elizabeth Tower.
Next, head to Westminster Abbey, a beautiful Gothic church that's been the site of coronations, royal weddings, and state funerals for centuries. Take a tour of the abbey, which includes the graves of many famous Britons, including Charles Dickens and Jane Austen.
Day Two: Afternoon
In the afternoon, visit the Tate Modern, a museum of modern and contemporary art that's located in a former power station. The museum has an impressive collection of works by artists such as Picasso, Warhol, and Rothko. Be sure to see the Turbine Hall, which has hosted many large-scale installations over the years.
After the museum, take a stroll along the Thames to the Tower Bridge, which offers great views of the city. Stop by the Borough Market, a bustling food market that's located near the bridge. Try some street food or buy some artisanal goods to take back to your hotel.
Day Two: Evening
In the evening, head to Soho, a vibrant neighborhood that's known for its nightlife. See a show at the Soho Theatre, which hosts a range of performances, including comedy, drama, and music. Alternatively, catch a live music performance at one of the many bars and clubs in the area.
For dinner, try a restaurant in the area, such as the famous Simpson's-in-the-Strand or the more affordable Busaba Eathai. These restaurants offer a range of international cuisines, from traditional British fare to Asian and Mediterranean dishes.
Conclusion
London is a city that has something for everyone, from its rich history and cultural landmarks to its vibrant nightlife and diverse culinary scene. With only 36 hours to spend in the city, you'll need to prioritize, but with this guide, you'll be able to see the best of London. From Buckingham Palace to the Tower of London, and from the British Museum to the Tate Modern, you'll experience the city's many wonders. So, grab a cup of tea, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to explore one of the world's greatest cities.
