London is an incredible city, and while it may be the capital of England, it is a very well-known city across the whole world. There are so many things you can do as a couple in this exciting location. As a result, it can often feel overwhelming if you only have a limited time on your honeymoon. Here are activities to maximize your 48 hours in London.
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With exclusive hotels, incredible cars, and scrumptious restaurants, you simply are spoilt for choice. The city is iconic, and home to the Royal Family. Two days may seem tight. However, that still gives you plenty of time to experience as much as you can on your honeymoon. Whether you choose a hop on/off tour bus or take the tube, here is what you should do if you only have 48 hours in London.
48 Hours in London, England
Things to Do During the Day in London
First of all, you may want to fill your days with sightseeing. London has many incredible attractions, unique buildings, and experiences to have. So here are some of the highlights that you may want to get booked in. Here’s what to do in 48 hours in London during the daytime.
Tower Of London
If you are a couple fascinated by history, the Tower of London is one place to head. This location is full of British history waiting for you to discover. It is considered London’s castle and fortress and has had many different uses over the years — including as a prison.
Today, it is home to the crown jewels, which are proudly on display. There are over 1,000 years of history here. As a result, the Tower of London is a great location to wander around and take it all in.
Tower Bridge
One of the most recognizable landmarks in London is Tower Bridge. So it has to be on your list, even if you just walk over it and take a few pictures.
However, within the towers, you will find a museum that showcases different exhibits dedicated to architecture and structure. It gives you a chance to learn about the history of Tower Bridge.
The British Museum
Another location that is perfect for any history lovers is The British Museum. There are so many incredible exhibits that you can walk around. Even if your interests are slightly different, the museum should have you covered.
There are a plethora of subjects, including human history and culture, as well as Egyptian mummies and artifacts, such as the Rosetta Stone. It is well worth a visit and would be memorable. Therefore, it’s a great afternoon excursion or one if the weather isn’t all that great.
The View from The Shard
The View from The Shard is known as one of the highest viewing platforms. Standing at around 800ft above the ground, it is remarkable. Plus, it is one of the only places that gives you views across the whole city. During your visit to The Shard, you could get yourself a drink and something to eat.
However, one of the main reasons to visit is to head to either the indoor viewing area, which is on level 60, or the outdoor open-air viewing platform on level 72. It is a romantic spot and perfect for couples to enjoy some time together in a beautiful setting.
Camden Market
Looking for something a little different to do in the morning? Then Camden Market is a fabulous location to include in your 48 hours in London. Plus, it’s especially perfect for any couple who loves their food.
Here you will find an amazing selection of eateries and street food vendors. No day is ever the same here, and there are so many stalls to look at and things to find. You will be fascinated by the atmosphere, and it’s the perfect place to start your day.
River Cruise along the Thames
Looking for something a little more romantic for early evening, perhaps? Then a great way to see London from a different perspective is from the River Thames. It is the perfect way to learn about a different kind of history that the capital has.
Additionally, the cruise is very enjoyable. There are many different companies that offer tours. Some include food. Others may have a guide on board to help you learn different things. You can decide what is right for you as a couple, but it is a lovely option to consider at sunset.
Buckingham Palace
No visit to London would be complete without heading to the Queen’s residence in the capital. The famous Buckingham Palace is an iconic monument in London. With plenty of history, gardens to explore, and rooms inside to breathe in the culture, it is a fascinating place to visit.
Things to Do at Night in London
With only a limited time, you may want to make the most of the evenings. London is a bustling city with vibrancy and plenty to do. Here are a few highlights to help you be inspired.
Sky Garden
This is the enlarged glass down that you will find on Fenchurch Street. It has three stories dedicated to gardens, and it truly has the wow factor. But within it, you have the Darwin Brasserie, the Fenchurch seafood bar and grill, and don’t forget the Sky Pod bar. It’s an ideal place for an evening out.
The West End
The West End is famous for the shows they put on each afternoon and evening. The selection of theatres hosts an array of shows from classics to modern interpretations. There will always be a show that will take your fancy.
Gourmet Restaurants
There are so many restaurants in London that it would be difficult to name just a few. But one thing is for sure: You will find a collection of restaurants that have been opened and are owned by some of the world-famous chefs.
Many of them are British, too. Think Gordan Ramsay, Tom Kerridge, Gino Di Campo, Micahel Roux Jr, and Heston Blumenthal. You are almost guaranteed to have a good meal.
48 hours may not seem long enough, but if you plan your stay right, you will be able to fit in a lot. Hopefully, these suggestions have offered up inspiration for some of the ways you could spend two days in London.
What to Do in London in 48 Hours
If you’re interested in finding out more about how to spend your 48 hours in London, click on the links below. There’s plenty to do that we didn’t even cover!
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Photos: Hugo Sousa, Max van den Oetelaar, Angela Compagnone, Samuel Wolfl, Frankie Lu, Sabrina Mazzeo
SherianneThis is the first I have heard about Sky
Garden and it sounds like a place I would love. I have been to London several
times and saw the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace but did not visit the palace, I will
for sure do that next time.
Ami BhatI did a few and yet missed so much. But then, that is London. The one thing that I truly regret is the Tower Bridge museum to see the crown jewels. We got late for the slot and hence, had to ditch it but then, we got to see the amazing British museum instead. Wish I had read your post earlier and then maybe, I could have planned my 48 hours better.
JamieAs a Londoner I appreciate the distillation of what to see in a short period of time; it’s often difficult for travelers to try and prioritize the “must sees”. I love the inclusion of West End for a honeymoon, as the shows can be fantastic. I think you’ve captured the highlights well, a true whistle-stop tour of an amazing city.
PaulaI agree with everything you said here. London is amazing and huge, but you can totally manage to see a lot withing 48 hours. It is so easy to get around there and there is something to see at every corner. Perfect destination for honeymoon.
Linda (LD Holland)London is a gateway into Europe for us so often we plan short visits and pick a few things to see and do. So a 48 hour guide was perfect. For our next visit we must plan to see the Sky Garden and book a live show. Or maybe re-visit some favourites.
AgnesI love London, and I think that 48 Hours in London on Honeymoon is a great idea. The city offers so many activities for couples, and it’s quite a romantic place. For sure worth visiting Tower Of London, Tower Bridge, Camden Market. The perfect idea for a romantic evening is River Cruise along the Thames.
UmikoI’ve never been to London, but this guide seems right for couples trip. Sounds like it won’t rush you from one place to another place. And you put watching a show and eating at one of the gourmet restaurants. That’s really wonderful!
TamiGreat synopsis of the best of London! And whether it’s for a honeymoon or any other kind of travel, London is a great spot to visit. We were there a few years ago for three days and still didn’t feel like we got to see everything.
Subhashish RoyWow this is a lovely trip down memory lane. London is one of my top favorite city and have spend some memorable time during our two visits there. The beautiful photographs made me nostalgic. Thanks for sharing.