We started the second day in the hotel’s breakfast hall. It wasn’t extravagant, but it was the kind of breakfast that gently prepares you for the day. As we sipped our coffee, we went over our plans. We would be spending more time on the move today, and there was a sweet sense of excitement in that. After breakfast, we quickly got ready because our first stop was Greenwich, known as the place where time begins.
Greenwich Town and the
Prime Meridian
After a 40–45-minute journey by public transport from the city centre, we arrived in Greenwich. Along the way, London’s crowds gradually faded, and we found ourselves in a calmer, more spacious atmosphere. Greenwich truly felt like one of those places where Londoners escape on weekends to breathe and unwind.
First, we took a walk through Greenwich Park. Its lush green fields and the city view from above are incredibly refreshing. The fact that the park is open 24 hours is a big advantage. As you wander around, you notice everyone stopping at the same spot to take photos: the Prime Meridian. Standing with your feet in two different hemispheres on the line where time begins may sound simple, but it creates a strangely joyful feeling.
For those with more time,
the Greenwich Observatory and the historic Cutty Sark ship are great
alternatives. We preferred to stroll through the town’s streets and enjoy the
peaceful atmosphere. Small shops, the scent of the sea, and the slow pace of
life make Greenwich special.
Thames River Boat Tour
After Greenwich, we joined a Thames River boat tour, which made the day even more enjoyable. Lasting about an hour, this tour is a wonderful way to see London from a different perspective. As the boat glides along the river, the wind brushes your face while the city’s iconic landmarks appear one by one.
The London Eye, Big Ben,
and surrounding historic buildings look even more impressive from this angle.
Being away from the crowds, pausing, and simply watching… This boat tour was
definitely one of the most peaceful moments of the day.
Visit to the British
Museum
After the boat tour, we took public transport to the British Museum. It would truly be a great loss to visit London and not see this place. The fact that the main collections are free makes it even more appealing.
The moment you step inside, your sense of time becomes slightly blurred. As you wander among Ancient Greek artifacts, Egyptian mummies, and Asian artworks, you suddenly find yourself in entirely different eras. We slowed down, especially in the Egyptian section; it has both an impressive and thought-provoking atmosphere. Before we knew it, closing time was approaching.
City Walk – London’s
Iconic Streets
After the museum, it was time to immerse ourselves in London’s streets. Our first stop was Oxford Street, truly the heart of shopping in London. Crowded, lively, and full of unstoppable energy… Even if you don’t shop, just walking along the street is enough to feel the city’s rhythm.
From Oxford Street, we
headed to Soho. The atmosphere here is freer and more bohemian. Walking among
small cafés, street performers, and narrow streets was delightful. A few
streets later, we found ourselves in Chinatown. Colourful lanterns, aromas
rising from restaurants, and a completely different vibe… You truly understand
once again how multicultural London is.
Piccadilly Circus
Later in the day, we
arrived at Piccadilly Circus. It’s a square that lives at every hour of the
day. The lights, the crowds, and the movement never stop. Simply standing in a
corner and observing is enough to grasp the essence of London.
As the day went on, we
realised that London’s options are truly endless. For us, this free time meant
a bit of eating and drinking, a bit of exploring, and simply feeling the city.
Our first stop was Borough Market, one of London’s most famous markets. From the moment you enter, it awakens your appetite. The air is filled with aromas from different cuisines. As you wander between the stalls, you can find everything from local cheeses to desserts, from street food to international dishes. It’s not just a place to eat, but also a wonderful stop to observe everyday London life. Old shops and small restaurants add unique character to the market.
For those who want a
different perspective of the city, the London Eye is a great alternative.
Rising 135 meters above the ground, the panoramic view of London must be
breathtaking. We were content admiring it from below, but especially for
first-time visitors, it would be a memorable experience.
For something with a
different theme, the Sherlock Holmes Museum on Baker Street is an enjoyable
stop. For fans of detective stories, the interior is quite entertaining. Seeing
Sherlock’s iconic belongings makes you feel as if you’ve stepped into the stories.
For Harry Potter fans, there is a symbolic stop: The Elephant House. Sitting in the café where J.K. Rowling began writing the first Harry Potter book holds special meaning for devoted fans. It’s best not to go with overly high expectations, but its story makes it special.
Another great option for
viewing the city from above is Sky Garden. It’s free, which is a big advantage,
but advance reservation is required. In this glass-enclosed space, you can
enjoy the London skyline and take a short break. The hours close to sunset are
particularly enjoyable.
For those who can’t get
enough of museums, the Natural History Museum and the Victoria and Albert
Museum are excellent alternatives. The dinosaurs and the giant blue whale
skeleton at the Natural History Museum are truly impressive. The V&A is a
treasure trove for lovers of fashion, design, and art.
For a more energetic and alternative atmosphere, Camden Market is the perfect address. Filled with vintage clothes, handmade jewellery, and street food, you lose track of time here. Walking along the canal is another lovely detail of the day.
For those who prefer a calmer end to the day, Hyde Park is ideal. Walking around the Serpentine Lake, sitting on the grass to relax, or simply watching the surroundings feels like a brief escape from London’s crowds. In the summer months, the park offers an entirely different kind of pleasure.
Free Time – Small Tips
For shopping, Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Bond Street are always safe choices. Those looking for more boutique and local spots can explore Carnaby Street and Covent Garden. For food, Borough Market, Spitalfields Market, and Brick Lane stand out among London’s delicious stops.
At the end of the second day, our feet were a little tired, but the variety London offers made us forget the exhaustion. Every corner held a different story and a different mood. As we returned to the hotel, we kept saying, “We’re so glad we saw so much today.” See you in the third post!
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