London is a treasure trove for budget travelers with so much to do without spending a single pound. On my last few visits to the British capital, I challenged myself to build the ultimate budget-friendly London itinerary – one that hit the major sights, sprinkled in a few hidden gems and kept spending low without sacrificing my experience. After all, I studied abroad in London and know just how expensive the city can be. But that’s not to say it’s impossible to visit London on a budget.

If you’re wondering about free things to do in London, sipping cocktails with a view or picking up some fun souvenirs, this 3-day guide will have you booking that flight to London pronto.  

Day 1: Iconic London Landmarks & Free Museums

Let’s start with some classic free attractions in London.

First up: the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. Yes, it’s touristy, but it’s iconic—and totally free. Walk across the street's circle to grab the perfect picture of Buckingham Palace including the beautifully landscaped gardens with lush seasonal flowers. A short stroll takes you through the adjoining St. James’s Park, filled with locals sunbathing on the few nice days a year in London.

From there, wander through Trafalgar Square and head into the National Gallery. When I was a student, I would grab a cheap sandwich at Pret a Manger and people watch in the square. Entry to the National Gallery is free so be sure to stop at Van Gogh’s Sunflowers. Stunning.

After the National Gallery, head to my favorite discovery in London: the London Mithraeum Bloomberg SPACE. This hidden Roman temple lies beneath Bloomberg’s HQ—fully immersive, eerie, and packed with ancient artifacts. If you’re into hidden gems in London, this is a must. Entry is free, but timed tickets are encouraged.

Bonus Museum: If you have some more day in the day, you can pop over to Russell Square on the Tube and visit the British Museum. Home to the Rosetta Stone and some Egyptian mummies, this is a top pick for free things to do in London with kids.

For sunset, make your way to the Sky Garden. It’s like a jungle that meets a skyscraper—with panoramic city views, and best of all, it’s free if you book ahead. I'd cap the evening with drinks at the Coppa Club, sipping by the Thames with Tower Bridge as your backdrop. Drinks with a view in London? Check.

Day 2: Covent Garden Culture & Creative Corners of London

Day two begins with a warm croissant and velvety coffee (or milky tea) at Garden at Drury Lane, a cozy breakfast spot tucked near the theatres. It’s a local gem for early risers looking for budget-friendly eats in Covent Garden.

From there, head straight into Covent Garden itself. Street performers, boutique shops, and that lively London buzz—it’s a must-do for cheap things to do in Central London. You can snag a few quirky souvenirs at Jubilee Market, which offers everything from handmade soaps to classic British trinkets.

If you are looking for a budget-friendly lunch stop, head to Nando’s in Covent Garden. We first discovered this chicken chain while living near Russell Square and would come often for the peri-peri sauce and all-you-can-eat frozen yogurt. The restaurant brand has had a face lift, but the food is still consistently tasty and relatively light on your wallet.

Bonus Stop: A quick detour leads to Neal’s Yard, a kaleidoscope of color tucked just around the corner. Instagram heaven.

Later, wander to Leake Street Tunnel, London’s only legal graffiti wall. The talent here is outrageous. Finish the day at The Scoop, where you can enjoy a free outdoor theatre show with Tower Bridge twinkling behind the stage.

Splurge: If you have a few (hundred) pounds, splurge on a West End show. From Hamilton to The Devil Wears Prada and even The Lion King, there is something for everyone. You can grab last minute tickets in Leicester Square at the TKTS Booth, run by the Society of London Theatre. Some venues offer standing room tickets for a fraction of the price.   

Day 3: Global Flavors & Local Escapes

Day three should be all about slowing down and soaking in London like a local.

Kicked it off with a stroll through Hyde Park—serene, spacious, and one of the best free green spaces in London. Did you know you can paddleboat in the park? This was one of our favorite parks while studying at uni for a picnic or casual stroll.

In the afternoon, head into Chinatown London, where the aroma of dumplings and sweet buns fill the streets. Pop into Chinatown Bakery for a flaky, warm egg tart or savory BBQ pork bun. Cheap and oh so flavorful. If you’re hunting for cheap eats in London’s Chinatown, this is the place. Chinatown is a wonderful microcosm in the city, often celebrating a festival or filled with street artists. Stroll along Gerrard Street to see the grand Wardour Street gate and stone lions.  

You can continue along the Strand to St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Tate Modern. The Millennium Bridge is a modern pedestrian bridge linking the church to the museum. If you haven't already, enjoy a traditional British meal at a local pub.

Finish your last day with a climb to the Royal Observatory Hill. It’s the perfect finale with a free panoramic view of London’s skyline that rivals any paid experience.

Bonus Spot: I have a soft spot for Hugh Grant and Notting Hill, so I love to wander through Portobello Road Market. It’s a little northwest of the city’s tourist hub, but if you visit, stop at Hummingbird Bakery for a red velvet cupcake. The market is filled with beautiful antiques and is open every day.

London doesn’t have to be expensive to be unforgettable. From secret temples and colorful courtyards to cheap breakfasts and skyline sips, this London budget itinerary lets you see the city in a fresh, authentic way. If you want to experience the best free things to do in London, I hope this helps you map out something magical.

Have a few more days? Take a train to Brighton and explore our favorite things there!

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