Two days in London isn’t much, but it’s enough to get a taste — if you don’t waste time chasing every single “must-see” list on the internet. The city’s too big, too layered for that. Better to choose a handful of solid plans, give them room, and leave space for whatever pops up. That’s how London works best anyway.

Morning, Day One – Ease In

You could wake up early and try to cram in half the landmarks in the first morning, but honestly, why? Luxury here isn’t just about what you’re doing, it’s about the pace you set. Start slow. A proper breakfast at The Wolseley — eggs done exactly how you like them, coffee that actually wakes you up, and the kind of service that never makes you feel like they need the table back.

From there, walk it off. St James’s is a short wander away, with its old hatters, tailors, and shoemakers that have been here longer than most cities have existed. Even if you’re not there to buy, step inside. It smells faintly of leather, wood, polish — and the staff act like they were expecting you to show up.

Late Morning – A Gallery, But Not the Obvious One

You can save Tate Modern and the National Gallery for another time. Pick somewhere smaller, quieter, easier to take in without frying your brain. The Royal Academy of Arts or White Cube work well. You’re in and out in under an hour, but it sticks with you — and because you’re not elbowing through tour groups, you actually see the art.

A coffee after, somewhere nearby that doesn’t overcomplicate things. Maybe in Soho if you’re feeling a little more awake now.

Lunch – Keep It Light

Lunch in London doesn’t have to be heavy to feel like an occasion. Lunch doesn’t have to be heavy to feel special. Maybe slide into Spring at Somerset House for something seasonal, or sit by the Thames at The River Café and watch the boats drift past. Keep it light — you want to have the energy for the rest of the day, not sink into a food coma.

Afternoon – One Good Experience

Pick one thing you’ve been meaning to try and actually go for it. Maybe that’s a private boat along the Thames, a behind-the-scenes look at an old building, or just shopping somewhere you don’t normally bother with. Mayfair’s got the luxury flagships, sure, but also tucked-away showrooms where the sales staff talk to you like you’re already a client.

The trick is not rushing. London’s at its most generous when you give it time.

Dinner – The Anchor of the Night

If you’ve only got 48 hours, at least one evening meal should be a little more thought-through. Not necessarily formal, but somewhere that feels like more than a random booking. You want a place that handles the details well — lighting that makes everyone look good, a menu with enough range to feel considered, service that’s confident but never hovering.

Clos Maggiore in Covent Garden has that fairytale glow, all twinkling lights and French-leaning plates. Bob Bob Ricard gives you the “Press for Champagne” button and a mix of British and Russian dishes in a velvet-and-brass setting. Or book Gymkhana in Mayfair — sharp spicing, cold martinis, a room that feels clubby without being closed-off.

Wherever you land, let the evening take its own shape. Order the extra side, have the dessert, take your time. Dinner’s not just about the food — it’s about stretching the night. Choose a dinner spot that’s near wherever you’re headed after — Mayfair is perfect if you’re headed to a Tape London table afterwards. A long trip across the city can kill the mood.

Morning, Day Two – Change of Scene

Start on the other side of town. Maybe the east, if you were west yesterday. Dishoom Shoreditch does a breakfast naan that will keep you happy all morning, or you could head to The Ned for something a little grander.

Walk it off through Spitalfields or Columbia Road if it’s a weekend. There’s a looseness to the east end that’s a nice contrast to the polish of Mayfair or Knightsbridge. Less scripted, more chance of finding something unexpected.

Midday – A Bit of Nature

Even with a short trip, it’s worth touching some green space. Hampstead Heath gives you that wild, open feel. Regent’s Park is more neat, more curated vibes.

Lunch – Make It Count

If you’ve kept breakfast light, lunch is your excuse to go big. Scott’s in Mayfair if you’re into seafood. The Ledbury in Notting Hill if you want modern British cooking that’s actually worth the hype. Or somewhere like Chiltern Firehouse, which is part restaurant, part scene — though in the middle of the day, it’s more about the food than the crowd.

Afternoon – Something You’ll Remember

This is the last full stretch before you go, so spend it on something you’ll actually talk about when you get home. A private perfume consultation, a behind-the-scenes theatre tour, an antique browse in Alfies Antique Market. The specifics matter less than the feeling — that sense that you did something you couldn’t have done anywhere else.

Early Evening – The Gentle Fade

If you’re heading out the next morning, you can still have a final evening without going big. Maybe a glass at Noble Rot in Bloomsbury, a wander through Marylebone’s quiet streets, or a slow dinner at a neighbourhood spot instead of somewhere flashy.

Two days in London isn’t long, but it’s enough if you give each moment some space. It goes quick, but it’s enough if you pace it right. You don’t need to cram in every sight or every “must-visit” list — just pick the good stuff, give it time, and let the city do the rest. The best weekends aren’t perfect plans, they’re the ones that leave you wanting one more day.