Some cities never lose their charm, no matter how many times you visit and for me, London is exactly that kind of place. This spring marked my sixth trip to the British capital, and honestly, I don’t think I’ll ever get tired of it. Somehow, every time I return, I find new places to explore and experiences to enjoy, making each visit feel special in its own way – even if you only have 72 hours.

As always, the first thing I do when I arrive in London is sort out transport. The easiest way to get around is by public transport, especially the so-called Tube – the world’s oldest underground railway system. I usually directly tapp my credit card at the gates, but grabbing an Oyster Card at the station works just as well. If you’re planning to visit several attractions, it’s worth checking out the London City Pass for discounted access to major sights.

Day I

One of my favorite ways to spend time in London is simply wandering the city’s streets. Start at Westminster and visit Big Ben – which, fun fact, is actually the nickname for the bell inside Elizabeth Tower – and Westminster Abbey. Continue your walk along the Thames until you reach Millennium Bridge, from where you can take a detour either to St. Paul’s Cathedral on one side or Tate Modern on the other.

For lunch, stop at Borough Market, one of the best-known produce and street food markets around and the perfect spot for grabbing a savoury bite and a sweet treat. After fueling up – and if you’re still not tired of walking – head to Tower Bridge and cross it to reach the Tower of London. Spend your afternoon exploring these two iconic landmarks or visit nearby hidden gems such as the historic Victorian Leadenhall Market or St Dunstan in the East Church Garden, a lesser-known spot in the city.

As the day winds down, catch the sunset from one of London’s free observation decks. Whether you visit The Lookout, The Garden at 120, or Sky Garden, all offer stunning views, but be sure to book your time slot online in advance. End your day in Clapham with dinner at Megan’s, followed by a drink and some live music at Venn Street Records.

Day II

Start your second day at a more relaxed pace and explore London’s iconic neighborhood, Notting Hill. Begin with brunch at Granger & Co., an Aussie-inspired restaurant and one of my favorites in the city, then take a leisurely stroll through the area. With its colorful Victorian townhouses, charming streets, and cozy coffee shops, Notting Hill is easily one of the most photogenic spots in London. A bit farther north, the Grand Union Canal offers a peaceful, green escape, perfect for a scenic walk on a sunny day.

Later, make your way to Hyde Park for a leisurely stroll or even a picnic in the park if the weather allows it. It’s also a great jumping-off point to visit Buckingham Palace or catch the Changing of the Guard (on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 11:00). From there, walk along The Mall toward Trafalgar Square and continue to Piccadilly Circus to see the famous neon lights. Spend your afternoon browsing Covent Garden and grabbing a bite at Seven Dials Market, or head to Soho for some more shopping along Oxford Street, Regent Street, or Carnaby Street, passing through nearby Chinatown along the way.

For sunset, head to Primrose Hill near Regent’s Park. It’s a bit of a climb, but the panoramic view over the city skyline is more than worth it. Afterwards, spend your evening in Shoreditch, which is packed with great restaurants and buzzing nightlife. Grab dinner at Rochelle Canteen and end the night with a drink at Simmons Bar on Old Street.

Day III

Start your morning with coffee and pastries at Fortitude Bakehouse before heading to the British Museum or the Wiener Holocaust Library for your daily dose of history, culture, and art. Next, make your way to King’s Cross Station for the classic Platform 9¾ photo op and pop over to nearby Coal Drops Yard to browse its indie shops, design stores, and riverside cafés. Spend the afternoon exploring Camden and its iconic Camden Market, strolling along Regent’s Canal on your way there.

Still feel like you’ve missed some of London’s most iconic sights? Hop on the Northern Line back to central London and catch bus no. 11 from Charing Cross Station toward Fulham Broadway for a scenic westbound ride passing Downing Street, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and Chelsea. Alternatively, take bus no. 15 toward Tower Hill for an eastbound sightseeing route that includes St. Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge, and the Tower of London. Make sure to grab a front-row seat on the upper deck for the ultimate double-decker bus experience.

As your time in London comes to an end, wrap up your trip with a meal at one of the city’s oldest chippies, Rock & Sole Plaice, followed by a pint at one of the many classic pubs around town such as The Carpenter’s Arms or The White Lion.

Got more time? Take a day trip to Brighton. Just a short 30-minute train ride from Gatwick Airport or around an hour from central London, this seaside town offers the perfect break from the city’s hustle and bustle. Stroll along the iconic Brighton Pier or relax on the pebble beach with some classic fish & chips. Don’t miss the stunning Royal Pavilion Gardens with its exotic, palace-like architecture, then spend the afternoon browsing independent boutiques, vintage shops, and cozy cafés in The Lanes.

72 hours are definitely not enough to cover everything London has to offer. But if you’re looking for some more off-the-beaten-path activities, why not book a bottomless bingo brunch at Hijingo Bingo or head to Fairgame at Canary Wharf for a fun night of fairground-inspired games and cocktails? Because beyond its iconic landmarks and classic itineraries, London is packed with unexpected adventures and hidden gems. No wonder that, no matter how many times you visit, there’s always something new waiting to be discovered.