“Discover the How I Spent an 48 Hours in London , money-saving tips, and must-see attractions. Explore London like a pro with our tried-and-tested guide!”
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I’ll never forget my first time stepping off the Tube into the heart of London. The energy hit me like a wave – people rushing everywhere, red buses zooming past, and that incredible mix of old-meets-new architecture that makes London unlike anywhere else. After countless trips and many mistakes (like that time I stood on the left side of the escalator and got death stares from every Londoner), I’ve finally cracked the code to the perfect weekend in this incredible city How I Spent an 48 Hours in London.
First Things First: Getting Around
Look, I learned this one the hard way – don’t waste your money on taxis! My first trip to London, I nearly emptied my wallet on black cabs before a friendly bartender let me in on the local secret: get an Oyster Card. It’s this magical little blue card that lets you ride all the buses and trains for about $15 a day. Trust me, it’s a lifesaver when your feet are killing you after walking through Westminster.
Where to Rest Your Head How I Spent an 48 Hours in London
I’ve tried staying all over London, but here’s the real deal – fork out a bit extra to stay in Covent Garden if you can. Yes, it’s pricier ($100-250 per night), but being able to stumble home after a West End show or roll out of bed right into the action? Priceless. Though if you’re more into street art and hipster coffee shops (guilty as charged), Shoreditch is your spot. The hostels there are actually pretty awesome too How I Spent an 48 Hours in London !
Morning Adventures
Picture this: You’re standing in front of Big Ben as the morning sun hits those golden clock faces. Magical, right? I still get goosebumps every time. Fun story – I once waited two hours to get the perfect photo here, only to have a pigeon photobomb me. Classic London!
Westminster Abbey next door is something else. The first time I walked in, I literally gasped – you’re walking where kings and queens have walked for centuries! Skip the guided tours and grab an audio guide instead. You can go at your own pace, and honestly, some of those stories are wild.
Breakfast Break
Oh my god, you HAVE to try the Regency Café. It’s not fancy, but it’s so perfectly London it hurts. The ladies behind the counter shout orders in thick London accents, the tea comes strong enough to stand a spoon in, and the full English breakfast? Heaven on a plate. Budget about $15, and prepare for the best breakfast of your life How I Spent an 48 Hours in London .
Palace Vibes
Here’s a mistake I made so you don’t have to – don’t show up at Buckingham Palace at noon expecting to see the Changing of the Guard. Get there by 10:30 AM or you’ll end up watching the back of someone’s head instead of the ceremony. I like to grab a spot near the Victoria Memorial – you can see everything from there How I Spent an 48 Hours in London.
Afternoon Culture Fix
Listen, the National Gallery saved my life during a sudden London downpour, and I ended up spending three hours there! It’s completely free (I know, wild right?), and they’ve got actual Van Goghs just hanging there like it’s no big deal. The best part? The view from the steps outside – watching street performers while eating a snack from Pret is peak London living How I Spent an 48 Hours in London .
Evening Magic How I Spent an 48 Hours in London
Okay, controversial opinion time – the London Eye is actually worth it. I used to think it was a tourist trap until I rode it at sunset. The whole city turns golden, and you can see for miles. Pro tip from someone who learned the hard way: book the “fast track” ticket online. The regular line can be longer than a British queue for tea (that’s really long, trust me).
Day Two: Time-Traveling Through London
The Tower of London blew my mind. I’m not usually into guided tours, but the Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters) are hilarious. My guide, Steve, had us all crying with laughter while telling us about beheadings – only in London! The Crown Jewels are cool, but the ravens steal the show. Did you know they have their own caretaker and menu? Talk about living the high life!
Don’t even think about skipping Tower Bridge. Yes, everyone takes photos of it, but walking across the glass floor at the top? Terrifying and awesome! I may or may not have crawled across on my first visit (no judging) How I Spent an 48 Hours in London.
When to Visit (AKA When I Messed Up)
Learn from my mistakes – I first visited in August and literally melted. Spring or fall is where it’s at. The weather’s decent(ish), the parks are gorgeous, and you won’t have to battle summer tourists for photos. Plus, have you seen London in autumn? Those parks with their golden leaves are straight out of a movie.
Real Talk About Money
London can eat your money faster than I can demolish a plate of fish and chips. Here’s how I survive:
- Markets are your best friend for lunch (Borough Market = food heaven)
- Most museums are FREE (still can’t believe this)
- Walking between nearby sites saves you Tube fare (and helps burn off those pub dinners)
- Pubs often have great dinner deals before 7 PM
Secret London Spots I Love
The Sky Garden is my favorite hidden gem. It’s this amazing garden at the top of a skyscraper with incredible views, and unlike The Shard, it’s FREE! You just need to book online in advance. I love grabbing a coffee up there and watching the sunset over the city.
What’s In My London Bag
After forgetting essentials more times than I’d like to admit:
- Comfy shoes (your feet will thank me later)
- That rain jacket you think you won’t need (you will)
- Power bank (phone batteries hate sightseeing as much as we do)
- Water bottle (London tap water is actually great)
The Real Deal How I Spent an 48 Hours in London
Look, London can be overwhelming – I get it. My first trip, I tried to see everything and ended up exhausted and cranky. Don’t be like past me! Pick your must-sees and enjoy them properly. Chat with locals (yes, even on the Tube – sometimes they surprise you), get lost in the little streets, and soak it all in.
Remember, London’s been there for thousands of years – it’s not going anywhere. Whatever you don’t see this time is just an excuse to come back! And trust me, you’ll want to come back. There’s something about this city that gets under your skin in the best possible way.
Now get out there and make some London memories of your own! And if you see someone standing on the left of the escalator… kindly point them to this article.
Is 2 days enough to explore London?
Two days in London allows you to visit major attractions like Big Ben, Tower of London, and Buckingham Palace. While you can’t see everything, you can experience the city’s highlights with proper planning How I Spent an 48 Hours in London .
What are the must-see attractions in London in 2 days?
Essential London attractions for a 2-day visit include Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, Tower of London, London Eye, and Tower Bridge. Most of these are centrally located and easily accessible.
What’s the best area to stay in London for a weekend?
Covent Garden and Shoreditch are ideal areas for a weekend stay in London. Covent Garden offers central location near attractions, while Shoreditch provides a trendy atmosphere with better value accommodation.
What’s the best time to visit London?
Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are the best times to visit London. These seasons offer mild weather, fewer tourists, and beautiful scenery in London’s parks.
