London is one of the most exciting cities in the world—but it’s no secret that it can be expensive. The good news are: you don’t need a royal budget to enjoy it! With free museums, interesting markets, and ✨hidden gems✨, you can experience the best of London without spending a fortune.
I personally wasn’t looking for a holiday in England – even in June, when I went, it was raining and the dress code included a jacket. It is also definitely not a good place for digital nomads. But it was the most convenient destination for me to fly at the time – so, why not?
Let’s check everything London has to offer for an unforgettable 3-day trip, even if you are a peasant!
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Day 1: Classic London (Without the Price Tag)
Morning: Iconic Sights & Free Views
Start your day with a stroll across Westminster Bridge for that classic postcard view of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. Snap some pics, then head to St. James’s Park—one of London’s prettiest (and free!) green spaces.
Next, walk to Trafalgar Square, home to the National Gallery. This world-class museum is completely free and houses masterpieces by Van Gogh, Da Vinci, and Turner. Even if you’re not an art buff, the building itself is stunning.
If you are more of a literature nerd then a museum one, consider joining the Charles Dickens Walking Tour (~£17) to explore the neighborhood.
Budget Tip: to save and escape typical touristy things, skip the London Eye (£30+ per ticket!) and get a free panoramic view from the Horizon 22 viewing gallery later (free!).
Afternoon: Eats & Hidden Streets
For lunch, head to Borough Market (open daily, but best on weekends). Yes, it’s touristy, but you can grab budget-friendly bites like a £5 scotch egg or a £6 falafel wrap. Wonder around the market and it will be an experience on itself!
After lunch, wander through Leadenhall Market, a gorgeous covered market. Nearby, check out the Old Roman London Wall ruins—history without the ticket price.
Evening: Sunset & Free Entertainment
Walk along the South Bank at golden hour—street performers, book stalls, and riverside views make it magical.
Day 2: Art, Culture & Notting Hill Charm
Morning: Tate Modern & Riverside Stroll
Start your day at the Tate Modern (free entry!), one of the world’s best contemporary art museums. Even if modern art isn’t your thing, the view from the 10th-floor balcony (also free!) is worth the visit.
Walk along the Thames Path towards Millennium Bridge. Stop by Blackfriars Bridge to see the old railway arches—great for photos!
Afternoon: Notting Hill Wanderings
Hop on the Tube to Notting Hill (Central Line to Ladbroke Grove). Maybe you are too young to understand the appeal: this is the neighborhood that gives name to the Julia Robert and Hugh Grant movie (“A Place Called Notting Hill”). This colorful neighborhood is perfect for some pics! The pastel houses on Lancaster Road & St. Luke’s Mews are a classic. You can also look for The Notting Hill Bookshop, which was inspiration for the movie (I didn’t find it, neither a Hugh Grant-ish book seller, so keep your expectations low).
The central fuzz happens at the Portobello Road Market (best on Saturdays but lively all week). Take your time to treasure hunt and have lunch!
Evening: Victoria & Albert Museum (Free & Fancy!)
Before dinner, visit the V&A Museum (open until 10 PM on Fridays!). This place is a treasure trove of fashion, sculpture, and design—plus, the courtyard café is stunning.
Day 3: Camden’s Alternative Vibes & More Museums
Morning: Camden Market & Canal Walk
Camden is the place for street food, vintage shopping, and punk vibes. It has enough for many hours of exploration and people watching. Start at:
- Camden Market (try vegan eats, £5-8 dishes)
- Stables Market (quirky antiques & Amy Winehouse statue)
- Regent’s Canal Walk (peaceful & free)
Pro Tip: Go early (before 11 AM) to avoid crowds, or join an affordable tour to learn about the stories behind the region!
Afternoon: Free Museums & Quirky Spots
London is packed with free museums, and the British Museum needs to be on your list. You can see the Rosetta Stone, mummies, and ancient treasures—all for £0. Yes, nothing there is really British (besides colonization being one of the most British things on earth), but it is still an impressive collection.
If you prefer to skip it, take a look a these more out-of-the-beaten-path alternatives:
- British Library (free! See original Beatles lyrics & ancient manuscripts)
- Wellcome Collection (medical artifacts connected with art, also free)
- Sir John Soane’s Museum (free, packed with odd artifacts)
If instead you want to immerse deeper into London’s punk roots, take a Sex Pistols and Punk Music Walking Tour and explore the Soho region.
Evening: Sunset at Primrose Hill or Pub Grub
Head to Primrose Hill to watch the sunset, then go grab a drink at The Hawley Arms – Amy Winehouse’s old haunt.
Bonus Budget Tips
✅ Transport: Walk or use an Oyster Card (way cheaper than single tickets).
✅ Free Walking Tours: Try Sandemans (pay-what-you-can tour) to cover the basics of London, especially if it is your first time.
✅ Theatre Tickets: if you want to watch a musical or concert, TodayTix app sells last-minute cheap seats.
✅ Water: Refill your bottle—London tap water is safe!
London on a budget? Absolutely! This city has actually so much to offer, you can enjoy it just by walking around. I hope these 3 days where a good start!
Which day sounds best to you? Let me know in the comments! 🚇💷✨
