Perfect 3 Day London Christmas Itinerary

Visiting London during Christmas? and looking for a 3 day London Christmas Itinerary? You’re at the right place! Read everything you need to know to plan your Christmas in London trip.

London feels extra special during the Christmas time! At this time of the year, city comes alive with iconic Christmas lights, festive markets, ice skating rinks, and beautiful decorations throughout the city! And top of that Christmas themed afternoon tea, and pubs and restaurants decorated for the holidays, December is a magical time to visit London.

I always dreamt about visiting London during the Christmas to see all the festive lights! But then I got chance to move here and now London is my second home! I visit the city very often and I must say, you can visit London at any time of the year! But during Christmas time, the whole city sparkles, and honestly you’ll have an absolute best time in London during December.

Planning a trip to London at Christmas can be overwhelming, as there is so much to do in the city! I’m creating this detailed 3 day London Christmas Itinerary to plan your seamless London Christmas trip, so you can enjoy your time in London at this time of the year.

When I moved, I’ve spent so much time in planning the best things to do in London for Christmas, so this London Christmas Itinerary perfectly combines iconic London attractions as well as stunning light displays, and showing you the best of London in December!

You’ll visit iconic London landmarks like Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square, and enjoy views from the Sky Garden, and stroll along the River Thames. And at night, you’ll also walk through the beautiful street lights, Christmas markets, and have afternoon tea, or drinks at rooftop bar in the most festive settings!

Please note: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you purchase by clicking a link on this post. This will be at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links help me keep this website up and running. Thanks for your support!

things to know for your London Christmas Trip

Overview of your 3 day london Christmas Itinerary

This London Christmas Itinerary spans over 3 days, I’ll try you see the best of London landmarks and Christmas lights in 3 days! If this is your first trip to London, I recommend to visit all the historic landmarks of London like Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and St Paul’s cathedral etc.

If you have already covered those places, you can skip it? Instead, you can add a visit to British Museum, V&A Museum or visit the neighborhoods of London like Camden, Richmond, or Hampstead Heath! London has so much to offer after all! With this London Christmas Itinerary, you’ll have all the information you need to plan your own festive trip!

• Day 1: Westminster, Trafalgar Square, Christmas Lights walking loop
• Day 2: Tower Bridge, Borough Market, and Sky Garden
• Day 3: Belgravia, and Covent Garden

How to Get to London

So, now as you’ve decided to spend 3 days in London for Christmas, then let’s plan on how to get to the city very easily! And the best news – it’s very accessible from any part of the world! Whether you’re flying, taking the train, or driving from Europe!

✈️ Flying to London

If you’re flying from North America or Europe, Heathrow International Airport, serving hundreds of world destinations with so many airline options! It’s biggest airport of UK, and located 14 miles west from Central London.

If Heathrow doesn’t fit into your plans, there are other four main airports to choose from:

• Gatwick (LGW): 30 miles south of Central London; serves many international flights.
• Stansted (STN): 40 miles northeast of Central London; mostly serves low cost carriers mainly for Europe!
• Luton (LTN): 34 miles north of Central London; serves low cost airlines for Europe!
• London City Airport (LCY): 8 miles east of Central London, near Canary Wharf; serves short-haul flights for major airlines, including international routes.

Getting to London from the Airport

Depending where you fly into, here are your options to get into the London City Center to start your Christmas London Itinerary. 

• From Heathrow: Take the Heathrow Express train to Paddington (expensive option) or the London Underground (Piccadilly Line) to Central London.
• From Gatwick: Take the Gatwick Express that goes straight to Victoria Station(expensive option) or Southern/Thames link services for cheaper option to reach Central London.
• From Stansted: The Stansted Express takes you directly to Liverpool Street Station in about 45 minutes.
• From Luton: Take a shuttle bus to Luton Airport Parkway, where you can catch a train to St Pancras (30-40 minutes), and from there take a tube to your hotel.
• From London City Airport: It’s well-connected via the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) to central London.

Taking the Train to London 

If you’re already in Europe, consider taking the train! It’s very efficient way to travel to London from nearby European countries. Major train stations include Paddington, King’s Cross/St. Pancras (serving Eurostar), and Liverpool Street.

Eurostar is the best option to reach London especially if you’re in Paris, Belgium etc. It’s pretty expensive compared to other trains, so make sure to book in advance to get the cheaper rates. You can get from Paris to London in 2.5 hours!

How to Get Around for your London Christmas Itinerary

Getting around London is very easy as the city has very extensive network of Public Transport system including underground/overground trains, buses, and neighborhoods are also very walkable! It’s just as good as the subway in New York City.

🚇 London Underground (The Tube)

The Tube is London’s Underground rail network, and it’s a great way to travel around London. And you’ll mostly rely on tube during your London Christmas trip. It’s divided into Zone 1-9, covering 11 lines!

But mostly, you’ll explore zone 1 during your time in the city. The Public transport of London uses a contactless system, so just use tap and go with your phone or card! But make sure to use the same phone/card throughout the day to get the benefits of max fare cap for the day!

Insider Tip: Avoid Peak hours (7:30–9:30 AM and 5:00–7:00 PM) if possible because the fare will be higher and trains will be crowded! Holidays and weekends are exempted from Peak hour charges! Download the CITY MAPPER to know the tube routes and timings! Getting around London is fairly easy!

🚌 By Bus

Another extensive mode of transport in London is it’s red double decor buses! It’s great way to see the city from above! And for this Christmas Lights Itinerary, it’s great way to see the festive lights! You can easily use City mapper/google maps to find the routes of buses!

And good news is that they have flat fare regardless of the distance! Make sure to go on a double decker at least once – it’s a classic London experience!

Insider Tip: You can make unlimited bus changes within an hour in London for Single fare! You must use the same contactless card/ Phone to touch in on each journey! The cost for the first journey is £1.75, and all subsequent bus journeys within that one-hour period are free!

🚶‍♂️‍➡️Walking

London is very much walkable city, and for most of the time during this London Christmas Itinerary, you can easily walk to sightseeing attractions, festive lights etc. Meaning you’ll clock 20-25K steps a day easily, so make sure to wear comfortable boots during your Christmas in London.

🚖 Black Cabs, and Ride Shares

If you don’t want to walk or using tube, Black cabs and Uber works in London ! Traffic can be very heavy in the city so make sure to keep this in mind !

🚗 Renting a Car

I don’t recommend renting a car in London. The public transport is very good, and finding the Parking is difficult, and expensive! So AVOID it all cost!

Weather During Christmas in London

London in December can be Cold and damp, especially if you’re coming from tropical hot weather! Though it can be mild cold as compared to Europe! But definitely be prepared for Rain! During early December in London, it will be still bit warmer with sunlight but later in the month can be bit freezing sometimes! Snow is very uncommon in London at this time of the year!

According to me, the best time to visit for Christmas in London is late November to first week of December, when all the decorations and pop ups are up, and it’s not freezing cold yet and the massive crowds haven’t arrived. And whenever you visit, make sure to plan a mixture of inside and outside activities.

As Rain is very common at this time of the year, make sure to Pack a travel umbrella or waterproof warm Jacket for wandering through the markets and admiring the Christmas displays. Also, wear clothes in layers and be prepared for temp changes throughout when you plan your London Christmas Itinerary!

Where to Stay to celebrate Christmas in London

If you’re visiting London at Christmas, and following this itinerary, I highly recommend staying in the neighborhoods of Soho, Mayfair or Covent Garden.

These neighborhoods are located very close to all the actions, and near the best Christmas sights. You’ll be right in the heart of festivity! London is very huge in area, so it’s very important to book your accommodation strategically.

Expect everything to be pricey in London during Christmas time. From hotels, restaurants to experiences! So book early if you want to save some money or consider hotels further from the city center and taking the tube.

There are so many amazing hotels in London, here are my best recommendations for every budget to stay in London at Christmas!

• The Ritz Carlton London($$$): One of the most festive hotel in London, the Ritz goes The Ritz goes all out for Christmas with stunning decor and huge Christmas tree at the entrance, and their Christmas afternoon tea is extraordinary!
• Claridge’s ($$$$): Most stunning and classic stay in the heart of Mayfair. It’s famous for its luxurious Christmas decorations and festive afternoon teas!
• Treehouse Hotel ($$$): Located in the heart of Soho, the Treehouse hotel is most budget friendly hotel in London! With its cozy ambiance, rooftop views and trendy designs, this hotel is perfect to stay during Christmas in London.
• The Londoner ($$$): Located in Leicester Square, hotel features a stunning guest-only club, six concept restaurants and bars including a rooftop lounge, a spa with pool. The rooms are luxurious and that too at competitive price which is rare in London!
• The Tower Hotel ($$): If you want to stay away from the crowd, make your way towards South Bank! This hotel offers the best views of Tower Bridge and just 10 minutes from walk to nearby tube station. It’s absolutely value for the money.

Festive 3 Day London Christmas Itinerary

This London iItinerary assumes you have 3 full days in the London. Meaning you’ve arrived the day/night before, and are ready to start exploring the next morning. This London Christmas itinerary is packed with tons of festive activities, landmarks Visit and so much more. You can skip the few places if you feel Rush!

This Christmas London itinerary doesn’t include few landmarks of London, like Churchill War Rooms, Visit to Tower of London, London eye etc! There’s just too much to include in short time! This itinerary focuses more on London Christmas festivities and holiday themed activities! If you have one more extra day, these attractions are surely possible to visit!

You’ll need to make restaurant reservations well in advance – meaning if you think you can go for walk ins and if don’t get it, you’ll probably need to rearrange this Christmas in London Itinerary to make room for your new reservations.

You can always rearrange this Itinerary as you like but I’ve grouped neighborhoods by their proximity which you can walk easily in between! So let’s discover the perfect plan for your 3 day Christmas in London Itinerary for you!

London Christmas Itinerary Day 1: Westminster, SoHo, Mayfair

Westminster Abbey

Start your first day in London for Christmas by visiting one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and UNESCO World Heritage Site – Westminster Abbey. This stunning Gothic church has been important site for British monarchs for Royal ceremonies including coronations, and weddings.

It also serves as burial sites for kings, queens, writers, and scientists since centuries! So, Westminster Abbey is one of the most important places to visit in London. The architecture is very stunning with intricate details of the work!

During the holiday season, it is beautifully decorated with festive lights and a dazzling Christmas tree. You can even attend Christmas Service here! A visit here lasts between 1-1.5 hour! Make Since it’s a popular attraction, I would recommend booking your tickets online in advance here.

Book your tickets in advance for 9:30 AM. Get in line at 9:15 AM so you can be the first to enter the Westminster Abbey!

Big Ben & The House of Parliament

Just a short walk away, you can snap classic photos of the iconic clock tower, now known as the Elizabeth Tower(Big Ben) alongside the impressive Houses of Parliament. It’s most beautiful site when lit up at night.

Pass by by Buckingham Palace

After visiting Big Ben, walk along the Birdcage walk to Buckingham Palace – another iconic landmarks to visit in London! While you can’t enter the palace during Christmas (Palace tours available from June to September), but you can still admire the stunning exterior and stroll through the surrounding gardens.

If you plan to attend Changing of Guards Ceremony, make sure to come at the Mall around 10 AM – it’s a quintessential London experience.

Make sure to stop by Queen Victoria Memorial when here to get the stunning views of the iconic the Mall road! After that walk along the Mall, stroll along Horse Guards Road and spot the most photographed door in London at 10, Downing street (home of UK prime minister)!

While Christmas in London is all about festive decorations, but history and architecture of Westminster area can’t be missed for your London Christmas Itinerary! So, make sure to add one or two landmarks in your list of things to do in London for Christmas!

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

Next visit the Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park. It’s massive Christmas amusement Park with so many rides, ice skating etc as well as Christmas Market! It’s London’s most popular Christmas Spot which you should add in your London Christmas Itinerary.

You’ll need to buy tickets to enter Winter Wonderland and extra cost for the things like ice skating, the ice bar, and other attractions, but it’s really worth the visit and entry fee is very cheap. I suggest visiting it Midday when crowd is light rather than in evening!

Picture traditional wooden chalets selling gifts, a Bavarian village, an ice rink, a small Christmas market, an ice bar, epic rides, shows, and a Magical Ice Kingdom. Santa Clause makes a daily appearance at Santa land. You’ll have epic holiday adventures! And it’s really fun to visit especially with kids.

Don’t forget to try the festive treats like mulled wine at Bavarian village and delicious roasted chestnuts! If you’re brave enough, go on a rides. But make sure to layer enough as it gets quite chilly in December.

Purchase your tickets online in advance, to make sure you get the time slot you want.

Leicester square Christmas Market

After admiring the Christmas tree at Trafalgar Square, take a short 5 minutes walk to Leicester Square where you’ll find one of London’s best Christmas markets. It’s very small but beautifully decorated, cozy and bustling with festive cheer!

It has charming stalls with unique gifts, mulled wine and handmade goods! You’ll find waffles, Pancakes, and German food here!

If you happen to be around here during the Lunch time, make sure to grab some tasty street food from German Market stalls! I really love the Cheese Wheel Pasta here! Definitely a cute spot to get some some handcrafted jewelry, decorations, and gifts as souvenirs! The atmosphere is very lively, I really love this small Christmas Market of London!

Afternoon Tea at Fortnum & Mason

No Christmas London itinerary is complete without a traditional afternoon tea experience! London is well known for its love of tea, scones, and sandwiches so make sure to experience this quintessentially British tradition.

There are many great places to have afternoon tea in London, but during Christmas, I highly recommend the traditional Afternoon Tea at Fortnum & Mason. This luxurious department store has been around since 1707 and serving British Royals since long! Their Christmas-themed afternoon tea is truly special.

Alternatively, you can also book a festive afternoon tea at The Ritz, The Dilly, The Wolseley or Claridge’s. Just make sure to book your reservations in advance as these spots tend to fill up quickly during the holiday season.

Christmas Lights Walking Tour

Once you finish afternoon tea at Fortnum and Mason, make your way towards most festive neighborhood of London- Mayfair! This is the last stop for the day 1 of your London Christmas Itinerary! As the sun sets, lights switches ON, and whole area looks magical!

This area boasts stunning holiday decorations, sparkling festive street lights, and extravagant luxury store displays throughout the area! You’ll also find spectacular department store facades, window displays, and beautiful Christmas trees at London’s most famous luxurious hotels!

Note: Most Christmas Lights turn on between 3 PM to 4 PM, and don’t shut off until 11 PM. Since the sun sets around 4 PM, there’s plenty of time to see them all lit up!

Everything sparkles at night, so just wander around and get lost in the magical atmosphere of Christmas in London! No one does Christmas quite like London! Make sure to add all the places in your map and plan your Christmas lights walking route in advance so that you don’t miss anything!

Some of the most famous streets for Christmas in London include Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Carnaby Street, all of which have beautiful sparkling light displays.

Here is the list of the must see Christmas lights in London and I’ve arranged it in order for you to walk around! This walking loop is approximate 2 miles and takes you through the most festive decorations of the London!

• Piccadilly Street: Admire the beautiful lights and visit the Beautiful Christmas tree at the Ritz London.
• Fortnum and Mason: Admire its Advent Calendar facade at night
• Burlington Arcade: A historic arcade featuring charming boutiques under an elegant glass roof!
• Royal Arcade: A victorian era shopping arcade completed in 1880 with beautiful architecture!
• Bond Street and New Bond Street: A luxury shopping haven with brands like Cartier, Tiffany & Co, Dior and Chanel. Don’t miss a Photo at red booth across the Cartier store which is most famous for its Christmas lights in London.
• Saville Row: Globally famous for men’s bespoke tailoring since 1731, this high end street is known for its tailor shaped Christmas light displays!
• Regent Street: Most Famous Christmas street of London, known for its stunning angles hanging above the street! It’s truly most festive street in London! Don’t miss flagship stores like Hamleys Toy Store and Liberty London on Regent street.
• Carnaby Street: Known for its unique sculptures hanging above, and follows unique theme every year! When you’re here don’t miss nearby Kingly Court, al-fresco dining destination with independent restaurants and cafes! When here don’t miss Basque Cheesecake at La Maritxu SoHo, and Chin Chin desert lab for its hot Chocolate!
• Oxford Street: Most beautiful Christmas street of London with thousands of Stars shining up in the sky! When here, don’t miss impressive Christmas window displays at Selfridges, and variety of Christmas activities at John Lewis!

• St. Christopher’s Place: A charming area filled with shops and eateries.
• South Molton Street: walk through the iconic arch illuminating the street!
• Mercato mayfair: Have you ever heard about Cafe inside the Church? Mercato Mayfair is a church turned eatery, serving international cuisines! The architecture here is stunning and food is delicious! It’s very unique place to visit on your list of London Christmas Itinerary!
• KOYN: Apart from its incredible Japanese cuisines, KOYN is very well known for its cute festive decor that includes a vintage car stacked with Christmas presents and topped with a tree! It’s super cute and charming decorations of London every year! Definitely, it’s my favorite spot to visit for the Christmas in London itinerary!
• Annabel’s, Mayfair: This exclusive private members’ club is one of the most glamorous and festive spots to Visit in London during Christmas.While Members only can go inside, but its exteriors can be admired by anyone! The decoration is always different every year and it’s always a stunner and creative one! They always have unique display every year, making it not to miss on your London Christmas itinerary.

Save this spots on your map to walk around ! If you don’t prefer walking, book this most popular Christmas lights open top bus tour to admire London’s most beautiful Christmas decorations from the comfort of your seat!

Dinner at 34 Mayfair

End your first day in London at Christmas with a delicious dinner at 34 Mayfair. This is one of the most festive restaurants in London decorated with baubles, lights, and Christmas trees everywhere you look. As a result, they are extremely in-demand during the holiday season so make sure to reserve your table in advance.

London Christmas Itinerary Day 2: South Bank of London

After power packed day of exploring the Christmas lights yesterday, today will be bit relaxing day!

Coppa Club Tower Bridge

Start your Day 2 of your London Christmas Itinerary with breakfast at Coppa Club Tower Bridge, one of the super Instagrammable restaurants in London! And yes, this is where you can eat in one of their famous heated igloos with sunning views of iconic Tower Bridge, and all decorated for the holidays!

These spot is very popular, and only nine igloos are available, so make sure to reserve your igloo in advance! If you are too late for the reservations, you can also book the indoor dining area which is equally beautiful and offers great views. The food is delicious, and very reasonable!

Tower Bridge

After breakfast, take a stroll along the iconic Tower Bridge — important Landmark of London! The bridge doesn’t have Christmas decorations but it’s worth stopping being the most iconic places to visit in London!

If it’s very cold day, Book the ticket for Tower Bridge Engine room visit! It will take you inside the bridge and you can walk on its glass floor, even you can visit the old engine room and you’ll learn about the history and operation of the bridge! From its glass floor you can see the traffic passing underneath your feet, it’s really fun!

Winter by the River

Now it’s time to check out one of the best Christmas Markets in London! Winter by the River is charming river side Market that starts right next to Tower Bridge and offers a great selection of festive stalls, food, and drinks.

But my favorite things about this market is the beautiful view of Tower Bridge, Tower of London and the city skyline in the background. It’s also less crowded than some other Christmas markets in London. You’ll find festive stalls selling snacks like hot chocolates, chocolate covered marshmallows, mini pancakes, and few savory treats as well.

You’ll pass by Hay’s Galleria that has a beautiful Christmas tree and decorations. Make sure to click few photos of its picturesque settings!

Borough Market

Keep walking straight along the river, and reach to Borough Market – another must visit for your London Christmas Itinerary! It’s a great place for grab a lunch after walking to. enjoy the food at tis historic food market! Whether you’re foodie or not, it will be highlight of your day!

There are so many options for Vegetarians too! My favorites are Humble Crumble, creme brulee donuts from Bread Ahead, cheese sandwiches at Kappacasein Dairy, and Black Pig for its Veg Sandwiches! You’ll have lots of options to choose from olive oils, bakery items, cheese and wine to foods from around the world!

Have lunch here, try small plates or snacks from different restaurants! But Make sure you DO NOT MISS the famous chocolate covered strawberries. Yes, it’s expensive, but.. I can eat it everyday!

Sky Garden

Cross the London Bridge and reach the other side of the River to Sky Garden. If you’re looking for the most beautiful panoramic views of London, you can’t miss Sky Garden in your London Christmas Itinerary!

Sky Garden is an indoor tropical garden with observation decks located on the 35th floor of the Walkie Talkie building offers free entry and breathtaking panoramic views of the city. It’s perfect spot to warm up during cold day of December in London, and soaking in the beauty of London during Christmas! And of course for the Christmas season, it’s all decked out with decorations and Christmas tree!

Sky Garden Details:

• Reservations: Although Tickets are free, you need to book in advance on their website. Given its popularity, securing your spot early is absolutely essential! You can’t go up without a ticket.
• Opening Hours: It’s Open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM on weekdays and 11 AM to 9 PM on weekends. You can visit during sunset, but at this time of the year, probably you might not get that due to grey skies!
• What if you don’t get Sky Garden Reservations? Here is the tip! There are a few restaurants and bars inside Sky Garden where you can grab a drink or eat while enjoying the views. You can make reservations at these places, so you don’t need a separate ticket to visit the Sky Garden.

Leadenhall Market

Once you’re done admiring the views from above, head over to Leadenhall Market. It’s just few minutes away from Sky Garden and definitely a magical place to visit for Christmas in London!

Not only is it a Harry Potter filming location( used as a Diagon Alley), but its stunning Victorian architecture, boutique shops, and Christmas decorations will make you feel something out of a fairytale!

In the center you’ll find the big Christmas tree perfectly positioned under a star-covered atrium to capture the photos with architecture and holiday vibes! Don’t miss visiting the hidden gem of London!

St Paul’s Cathedral

After admiring the Christmas at Leadenhall Market, make your way to another must see landmarks of London- St Paul’s Cathedral. You can reach by walk for 15 minutes or take a bus to reach here!

Completed in 1710 by Sir Christopher Wren, this stunning architecture masterpiece serves as a site for significant events like Royal Weddings, ceremonies, and burial ground for many national heroes! Inspired by the Roman Pantheon, the dome of the cathedral is second biggest in the world, standing at 366 feet high!

If your legs aren’t hurting too much, you can climb a total of 528 steps to reach the Golden Gallery at the very top, which offers stunning panoramic views of London.

During Christmas, you can attend the Christmas service or Christmas carols at St Paul’s Cathedral! And if you don’t prefer to visit from inside, make sure to admire the stunning master piece from outside!

After visiting St Paul, head to Millennium Bridge for the best views of St Paul cathedral! Cross the Bridge and walk again on the Thames Path to reach your next stop!

South Bank Center Winter Market

End your second day of 3 day London Christmas itinerary by visiting the Southbank Centre Winter Market. If you’re staying in Soho/Mayfair or Covent Garden, you’ll need to head back this way anyways, so you can stop at this charming Christmas Market by Thames! Yes, another market 😆!

This market is known for its delicious street food stalls, with so many food options to choose from! And for me, this is the perfect place to grab some dinner and enjoy the festive spirit before heading back to your hotel. Plus, you can also enjoy a beautiful view of the London Eye all lit up!

London Christmas Itinerary Day 3: Belgravia & Covent Garden

Breakfast at Peggy Porschen

Start your last day of London Christmas Itinerary with breakfast at Peggy Porschen — one of the most instagrammable Cafes London! The pink floral exterior of the cafe is decorated with wreaths, ornaments, and twinkling lights and the interior is just as beautiful.

If you love holiday cupcakes, don’t miss their Christmas themed cupcakes! They also have savory food as well as hot drinks, and the festive atmosphere added an extra touch of magic.

The cafe is perfect for pretty pictures as well as grabbing a delicious breakfast and warm drink during cold December in London! They change the decor every season, but during the Christmas its most stunning I’ve ever seen!

Wander Through Belgravia

I absolutely loved strolling through Belgravia, after all it’s one of the prettiest and royal borough of London! The decorations here might not be like Soho/Mayfair but its super classy and beautiful!

I love strolling around Elizabeth Street, and Sloane Square to soak in all Chic Christmas Vibes with beautifully decorated store fronts, Georgia townhouses with stucco facades! Definitely grab Pistachio & raspberry croissant from Chestnut Bakery, and visit the stunning Moyses Stevens flower shop while you’re here!

But my favorite spot in Belgravia is Neil Strain Floral Couture! This is one of the most decorated shop in London during Christmas, and you can’t miss it! Their decorations every year becoming more and more kind of art, all decked out with baubles, pine cones, ornaments and much more. It’s perfect for the Photos.

It’s technically a flower shop, but they go all out for the holidays. Don’t miss this store from your list of things to do in London for Christmas!

Note: There are few Neill Strain Floral Couture’s around the city, but the Belgravia location is known to be the most extravagant!

Shopping at Harrods

Your London Christmas Itinerary is incomplete without a visit to Christmas at Harrods! This iconic department store is a must-visit during the holidays. The exterior of the store is covered in thousands of twinkling lights and inside you’ll find dedicated Christmas department as well as so many designer goods!

And don’t miss The Food Hall – there’s literally everything you can’t even imagine, from fresh veggies, chocolates, fruits from all over the world, to fresh seafood and so many cuisines to try! I really love their Bakery and Cake section! It’s food heaven!

You can also do some last-minute shopping or simply wander around and take in the festive atmosphere!

You can also grab your lunch here OR at any festive restaurant nearby. The Ivy Chelsea Garden and Daphne’s are both popular options, so be sure to make reservations months in advance! yes, its that popular!

The Churchill Arms

After visiting Harrods, head north to visit the most beautiful Pub in London – The Churchill Arms! This pub is known for its extravagant floral decorations throughout the summer, but even more impressive Christmas decorations. In fact, it’s known as most festive pub of London!

Inside, you’ll find cozy seating areas decorated with Christmas lights, as well as memorabilia from Winston Churchill. If you want to grab some food, they also serves delicious Thai Cuisines! It’s very popular in the holiday season so having a reservation is recommended.

Covent Garden

After visiting Churchill Arms, make your way to Covent Garden, a lively shopping and dining district with a festive atmosphere! You’ll need to hop on a tube to reach here from the Churchill Arms.

Though Covent Garden market is open throughout the year, its extra magical during the Christmas in London. The market is transforms into a winter wonderland with beautiful decorations and an enormous Christmas tree in the Piazza!

The Christmas decorations here are absolutely stunning every year! Definitely, it’s one of my most favorite Christmas Photo Spots in London! You can take a photo with vintage Santa sleigh on the second floor of the Apple Market as well as giant Christmas tree in the center.

Apart from the beautiful decorations, Covent Garden also has a great selection of restaurants and cafes where you can warm up with some delicious food or hot chocolate. Make sure to wander around the Apple Market, fun pop up stalls, or visit the nearby Jubilee Market Hall. Grab a drink at Punch and Judy or mulled wine from pop up stalls.

During December, snowfall hours happen between 12 PM to 7 PM, it adds more wintery vibes! Honestly there is so much to do on your 3 day London Christmas Itinerary!

When here, can stop by Mr Fogg’s Tavern or Clos Maggiore. It’s also most festive restaurants of Covent Garden. You can grab late lunch here if not done in Belgravia! Make Sure to book your table in advance though!

Ice skating at Somerset House

This is one of the best places to go ice skating in London. This large ice skating Rink is set in a stunning 18th-century courtyard of Somerset House, complete with a massive Christmas tree that adds to the festive atmosphere!

Book your skating session in advance – sessions typically run for about 45 minutes, and it’s best to reserve your tickets online to avoid disappointment. Get pricing and hours on the official website

Even if you’re not into ice skating, you can relax at the Skate lounge, sip coffee or hot chocolate or a holiday cocktail! I highly adding Somerset House in your London Christmas Itinerary as they usually have beautiful holiday decorations around the building.

Trafalgar Square

And last official stop of your 3 day London Christmas Itinerary is Trafalgar Square! Only a 10-minute walk from Somerset House, Trafalgar Square is must visit during the holidays. This iconic square features a giant Christmas tree donated by Norway every year and it’s a popular with locals as well as tourists!

There is also a small Christmas market in front of the National Gallery where you can find the stalls with unique gifts, and street food! Don’t miss to drink the mulled wine here! The stalls are decorated for the holidays and its in most magical setting!

Dinner at Covent Garden/ Dishoom

You can end your 3 day London Christmas Itinerary by having dinner at the most famous Indian restaurants in London- Dishoom. If you love Indian food, I highly recommend checking out this place when in London.

Their menu is loaded with must-try dishes, like the legendary Paneer Tikka Masala, biryani, Veg Samosa and fluffy Naan etc. You’ll also love the Chaat and Pav Bhaji! It’s super popular, so make sure to reserve your table in advance.

London Christmas Itinerary Travel Tips

• Be Prepared for the Crowds: Christmas is Peak season in London and you’ll see lots of crowd everywhere you go! The famous regent street, Oxford Street and other places will be crowded and sometime you’ll walk shoulder to shoulder with each other! If you want to avoid the crowds arrive late November or first week in December
• Book everything in advance: Most of sightseeing attractions and landmarks in London needs reservations, so make sure to book it in advance! Also, make sure to book your dinner/Lunch reservations in advance! Also, book your hotels as soon as possible when you confirm your travel dates!
• Christmas Markets aren’t like Europe: London Christmas Markets are magical but not as magical as like European countries! Christmas in London is not for the Markets but for the overall festive energy, lights and decorations around the city! Make sure to keep this in mind, so later you don’t get disappointed!
• Expect to Pay high prices for your Stay: Staying in Central London during Christmas will be Pricey! If you want to be near all the actions of Christmas which happens in Soho, Mayfair, or Covent Garden, make sure to book your hotel early! If you want to save $$, stay during the week if possible. Weekends can be double the price. But if you are OK with staying outside of this area, it’s still possible to have the most amazing time in the city because the city looks magical no matter where you stay!
• Plan your London Christmas Trip in Advance: Planning your Itinerary in advance is a key to making the most of London at Christmas. There is so much to do in London, but with limited time in hand make sure to plan the activities that interests you first, and then remaining things to do to save the time! So, this 3 days in London Christmas Itinerary will help you to plan better!
• Days are Shorter during Christmas in London: With sunrise around 8 AM and sunset around 4 PM – daylight hours are limited during London at Christmas. But glittering Christmas lights and magical atmosphere will surely help you to walk around at night! But you’ll also love to getting to bed early after walking all day long! I also suggest starting your day early for this London Christmas Itinerary to get the most daylight and bit the crowds!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it Worth Visiting London during Christmas?

Absolutely! Visiting London during Christmas is magical experience. The City comes alive with its iconic sparkling light displays, Christmas Markets, ice skating rinks, Christmas-themed afternoon tea, and festive dining experiences.

Does Everything Close in London on Christmas Day?

On Christmas day, public transportation in London doesn’t operate. Meaning, you can’t use the Underground, trams, buses, or trains. You can walk or hire a taxi, but they also with reduced services. It also has a limited service on Boxing Day. Most attractions, shops and restaurants remain closed on Christmas day.

How Cold is it in London during Christmas?

During December in London, it’s mostly cold weather with grey skies and rain! The Temperatures range from 3°C to 9°C (37°F to 48°F). The days are short, with sunrise is at 8 AM and sunset at 3:50 PM. Snowfall is rare during this time but if it happens, it’s really adds beauty!

Hope this helps you plan your best 3 days London Christmas Itinerary to see the best sights and Christmas lights in London! Pin this Post to plan your London Christmas Trip.