Thrifty London: A Day Trip Guide on a Budget

Explore London without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A trip to London on a limited budget can still offer plenty of sights and experiences. Tour the city's famous landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and Big Ben. Take advantage of free activities such as exploring the many parks and markets throughout the city.

Day trip plan

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Day

London on a budget

  • Start the day off at Borough Market for breakfast. Try the famous bacon sandwich from Roast or grab a pastry from Bread Ahead.
  • Take a stroll along Southbank and admire the views of the London Eye and Big Ben.
  • Visit the British Museum admission is free! See the Rosetta Stone or the Egyptian mummies.
  • For lunch, head to Brick Lane and try some delicious Indian street food. OR head to Brixton for a taste of the Caribbean try a jerk chicken wrap from Fish, Wings & Tings.
  • Spend the afternoon shopping at Camden Market. There's something for everyone, from vintage threads to quirky souvenirs.
  • End the day with a pint at a local pub. The Salisbury or The Ship are great options. Cheers!

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 on a Budget: A 3-Day Adventure

London is an exciting city to visit on a limited budget. Some tips include using public transportation instead of taxis, visiting free museums and parks, and finding affordable food options such as street vendors and local markets. Despite the cost-saving measures, travelers can still experience iconic sights like Big Ben, the Tower of London, and the British Museum.

Romantic London in One Day

Explore the charming streets of London with your sweetheart, visiting iconic landmarks such as Big Ben, the London Eye, and the Tower Bridge. Take a romantic stroll through Hyde Park as the leaves turn colors while sipping on hot chocolate from a nearby cafe. End your adventure with a fancy dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant before returning to your cozy accommodations for the night.

London in Love: A 2-Day Romantic Getaway

A romantic trip to London, United Kingdom would be an unforgettable experience for any couple. The trip would be full of romantic walks along the Thames, visiting iconic landmarks such as Big Ben and the Tower Bridge, and indulging in the city's charming cuisine and vibrant nightlife. With its beautiful parks and elegant architecture, London sets the perfect scene for a romantic getaway.

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.