4 Days in London: Big Ben, Royals & Hipster Heaven

London on a budget: experience the magic without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Exploring London on a limited budget is entirely possible with proper planning and research. To save money, opt for budget-friendly accommodations like hostels or Airbnbs and take advantage of the city's excellent public transportation system, which will allow you to visit major attractions like the British Museum, Tower of London, and Westminster Abbey. Additionally, indulge in some street food and visit local markets for delicious and affordable meals.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Big Ben and Beers

  • Check into The Z Hotel Shoreditch, a modern and affordable hotel in the heart of East London.
  • Head to the iconic Big Ben and take selfies with the world's most famous clocktower.
  • Walk over the bridge to Southbank for a pint of ale at The Anchor, an old-fashioned English pub with a rich history.
  • Visit the Tate Modern gallery to admire some of contemporary art's finest works.
  • Finish the day with a curry at Tayyabs, a legendary Pakistani restaurant known for its delicious kebabs and naan bread.
Day 2

Royals and Retail Therapy

  • Take a walk around Buckingham Palace, the residence of the Queen of England.
  • Visit the National Gallery to see the works of artists like Van Gogh, Monet and da Vinci.
  • Stop by iconic department store Harrods for some window shopping and high-end retail therapy.
  • Take a break for afternoon tea at Fortnum & Mason, a posh tea room that has been serving royalty since the 18th century.
  • End the day with a nightcap in one of Covent Garden's trendy rooftop bars.
Day 3

Hipster Heaven in Shoreditch

  • Explore the bustling Brick Lane market, a colorful hub of street art, food and vintage fashion.
  • Check out the street art in Shoreditch, a mecca for hipsters and creatives.
  • Visit the Boxpark retail park, which features pop-up shops, street food and live music events.
  • Stop by the Rough Trade East record store and bar, where you can browse vinyl and CDs while sipping a beer.
  • For dinner, try Dishoom, a popular Indian restaurant that serves classic Bombay dishes with a twist.
Day 4

History and Harry Potter Magic

  • Visit the British Museum to see iconic artifacts like the Rosetta Stone and the Egyptian mummies.
  • Take a walking tour of Oxford Street, one of London's busiest shopping districts.
  • Head to King's Cross Station to snap a photo at Platform 9 3/4 and visit the Harry Potter Shop for souvenirs and memorabilia.
  • Finish the day with a pint and pub grub at the historic Lamb & Flag pub, which dates back to the 17th century.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to London by plane is to fly into London Heathrow Airport, which is one of the major airports in the city. Other good options include London Gatwick Airport and London City Airport.

Car

Driving to London is possible too, but you will need to consider the heavy traffic and parking issues in the city. The best way to get there by car is to take the M25 motorway, which circles around the city, and follow directions to the city center.

Train

If you prefer to travel by train, the best option is to take the Eurostar from Paris to London, which arrives at London St. Pancras International Station.

Boat

There are no direct boat services to London, but you can take a ferry or cruise to a nearby port and then take a train or bus to the city. Southampton port is the closest port to London that has good transport links.

Bus

To reach London by bus, you can take the National Express coach service, which operates from various cities throughout the UK and arrives at Victoria Coach Station in London.

More travel plans

London's Perfect 3-Day Cultural Getaway

London is a vibrant and bustling city, with a rich history and culture. Visitors can explore famous landmarks such as the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace, or marvel at the artwork on display at the Tate Modern. A trip to London is incomplete without trying famous British cuisine and experiencing the energetic nightlife.

London's Hidden Gems: Family Fun and Historic Treasures

A family friendly trip to London, United Kingdom offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and entertainment for all ages. Visit iconic landmarks like the Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace, and the British Museum to immerse your family in the city's rich history. Explore family-friendly attractions like the Warner Bros. Studio Tour, the London Zoo, and the Science Museum to spark the curiosity and excitement of your little ones.

The Ultimate 5-Day London Excursion

As a tourist visiting London, you can expect to explore some of the most iconic landmarks in the world, such as the Big Ben, the London Eye, and the Tower Bridge. You can also enjoy the colorful nightlife and indulge in delicious cuisine at some of the finest restaurants in the city. Be sure to visit the numerous museums and art galleries, such as the British Museum and the National Gallery, to immerse yourself in Britain's history and culture.

London's Ultimate Day Trip Guide

As a tourist, a trip to London, United Kingdom is an unforgettable journey into the heart of British culture, history, and innovation. From iconic landmarks like the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the London Eye to spectacular museums, galleries, and theaters, there's something for everyone in this diverse and vibrant city. With world-class shopping, dining, and nightlife, London is an experience not to be missed by any traveler.