12 day itinerary
London
Itinerary
London in winter can be chilly, but it’s also a magical time to visit with festive lights and cozy pubs. However, if you're looking for a warm place that’s budget-friendly, I’d suggest considering a few day trips to nearby warmer destinations or even some indoor activities in London. Here’s a fun 12-day itinerary that balances exploring London with some warmth and budget-friendly options!
Day 1: Arrival in London
- Morning: Arrive in London and check into your accommodation. If you’re looking for budget options, consider hostels or budget hotels in areas like Kensington or .
- Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll around the . Enjoy views of the Thames, the , and maybe grab a hot chocolate from a nearby café.
- Evening: Head to for dinner. It’s a foodie paradise with plenty of affordable options!
Day 2: Classic London
- Morning: Visit the . It’s a must-see, and you can learn about the history of the Crown Jewels.
- Afternoon: Walk across and explore the Southbank area. Stop by the (free entry!) for some contemporary art.
- Evening: Enjoy a traditional pub dinner in the area. Try fish and chips!
Day 3: Royal London
- Morning: Visit and watch the Changing of the Guard (check the schedule as it doesn’t happen every day).
- Afternoon: Stroll through and then head to . It’s a bit pricey, but the history is worth it.
- Evening: Take a walk along the Thames and enjoy the views of the Houses of Parliament lit up at night.
Day 4: Day Trip to Brighton
- Morning: Take a train to Brighton (about an hour). It’s usually milder than London in winter.
- Afternoon: Explore the , the , and the quirky shops in the Lanes.
- Evening: Enjoy some fish and chips by the sea before heading back to London.
Day 5: Museums and Culture
- Morning: Visit the (free entry!). Don’t miss the Rosetta Stone and the Egyptian mummies.
- Afternoon: Head to the . It’s not only educational but also stunning!
- Evening: Grab dinner in South Kensington. There are plenty of affordable eateries.
Day 6: Markets and Shopping
- Morning: Explore . It’s vibrant and full of unique shops and food stalls.
- Afternoon: Head to for some shopping and street performances.
- Evening: Catch a show! Look for last-minute tickets for budget options.
Day 7: Day Trip to Bath
- Morning: Take a train to Bath (about 1.5 hours). The city is known for its Roman baths and Georgian architecture.
- Afternoon: Visit the and take a stroll around the beautiful streets.
- Evening: Enjoy a cozy dinner in one of Bath’s charming restaurants before heading back to London.
Day 8: Parks and Palaces
- Morning: Visit and explore the gardens.
- Afternoon: Take a leisurely walk through . If it’s cold, grab a hot drink from a café nearby.
- Evening: Head to for dinner. It’s a lovely area with plenty of affordable dining options.
Day 9: Art and History
- Morning: Visit the in Trafalgar Square (free entry!). Marvel at the masterpieces.
- Afternoon: Explore the nearby and .
- Evening: Enjoy dinner in , where you can find delicious and budget-friendly meals.
Day 10: Day Trip to Oxford
- Morning: Take a train to Oxford (about an hour). Explore the historic university city.
- Afternoon: Visit the (free entry) and take a walking tour of the colleges.
- Evening: Have dinner in one of Oxford’s cozy pubs before returning to London.
Day 11: Explore East London
- Morning: Visit the trendy area. Check out the street art and quirky shops.
- Afternoon: Head to for some delicious curry or bagels.
- Evening: Explore the nightlife in or catch a live music show.
Day 12: Departure
- Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a café. Maybe do some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
- Afternoon: Depending on your flight time, you could visit the for stunning views of the city (free entry, but book in advance).
- Evening: Head to the airport and say goodbye to London!
Tips for Staying Warm and Budget-Friendly:
- Layer your clothing! It’s all about staying warm while looking stylish.
- Use an Oyster card or contactless payment for cheaper travel on public transport.
- Look for free or low-cost attractions and events happening during your visit.
I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic time in London while keeping things warm and budget-friendly! Enjoy your trip! 🌍✈️
