24 hours in London

World-class museums, renowned theatres and stunning landmarks – make the most of your 24 hours in London with our action-packed itinerary.

Discovering London in just 24 hours seems like a daunting task. In a city that's home to 9.6 million people, thousands of restaurants, over 300 museums and seemingly limitless other landmarks, where do you begin?

While it may not be possible to see all of the capital during a lightning-round stopover, follow this itinerary and you’ll be rewarded with a taste of London's best. From renowned museums like Somerset House and historic markets like Borough Market, to a dose of the famous performing arts scene courtesy of the Royal Opera House, enjoy a whirlwind 24 hours in London.

Morning

The National Portrait Gallery to Somerset House

You’ve begun your day with a generous breakfast at The Northall - what next? There will be a fair amount of dining later, so some morning perambulation isn’t just a fine way to see the city, it will also ensure you’ve worked up an appetite by lunchtime.

From Corinthia London, set off towards Trafalgar Square and within steps of the towering Nelson’s Column, you’ll find the National Gallery and the National Portrait Gallery. The motivated can try to explore both, though even one will more than provide your recommended dose of masterpieces. Don’t miss the Tudor and Elizabethan portraits at the National Portrait Gallery, while the National Gallery is home to world-famous paintings like ''Sunflowers' by Vincent van Gogh and 'The Ambassadors' by Hans Holbein the Younger.

Alternatively, a leisurely stroll down the Strand is one of those quintessential London walks. Meander over to Somerset House: both a striking Neoclassical icon on the site of an old Tudor palace and an exhibition space for art shows. Its iconic architecture and Thames-side placement make it a must-visit.

Lunchtime

Borough Market

Take this opportunity to wander across the Thames and explore Borough Market. History hums in the cobbled streets of this iconic foodie hotspot, where generations of Londoners have feasted during its thousand-year history. Today, it is still considered the city's gastronomic heart (or stomach, perhaps). Browse stalls laden with aged Comté, Italian cured meats and steaming pans of paella. Let your nose be your guide - every twist and turn promises a delicious bite, a perfect reward for the curious wanderer.

Afternoon

Tate Modern

Full to bursting? If you’ve been blessed with a sunny afternoon and would prefer to enjoy London en plein air, a river cruise will take you along the Thames. It's a great way to savour views of many of London’s most famous vistas, from the London Eye and Houses of Parliament, to Tower Bridge and the skyscrapers of the City.

Alternatively, go for a gentle stroll over to the Tate Modern. Housed in a renovated power station, it’s not only one of London’s most striking buildings but has also ranked among the city’s most visited museums since its opening in 2000. The permanent collection is free to visit.

Prefer your museums on the smaller side? Head for homey, hidden museums like the Handel House Museum, the Charles Dickens Museum, or Sir John Soane’s Museum, all of which are tucked away in Zone 1.

Dinner and a show

The Royal Opera House and beyond

The evening isn’t complete without dipping your toes into London’s world-class theatre scene. For those on the South Bank, the Old Vic or the National Theatre at the Southbank Centre always have something of interest on. For the classical, the Royal Opera House’s ballet and opera performances rival those of La Scala.

It has been an action-packed day in London and at this point, you’re bound to be a little tired. It's time to head back to Corinthia London to enjoy a nightcap at Velvet by Salvatore Calabrese, our luxurious Champagne and cocktail bar, before finally retiring to bed.