Planning a London itinerary can feel overwhelming with so much to see and do in this amazing city. Whether you’re visiting for three, five, or seven days, there’s something magical waiting at every corner—from iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London to hidden gems in bustling markets and peaceful parks.
This guide helps you make the most of your time in London, offering different itineraries that suit various interests and schedules. Get ready to enjoy the city’s rich history, diverse culture, and incredible energy.
Let’s make your London trip one to remember!
3-Day London Itinerary
Day 1: London’s Famous Landmarks
Start your first day in London with the city’s most iconic places. Head to the Tower of London early. You’ll see the Crown Jewels and learn some history. After that, walk over to Tower Bridge, it’s a great spot for photos. Next, visit St. Paul’s Cathedral, and if you’re up for a bit of climbing, go to the top for a nice view.
From there, cross Millennium Bridge, which will take you right to Tate Modern. Spend some time there, even if you’re not that into art, it’s interesting. In the late afternoon, head to Covent Garden. It’s full of street performers, shops, and lots of places to eat. You can enjoy dinner here while soaking up the lively vibe.
Day 2: Royals and City Views
Start day two at Buckingham Palace. Try to catch the Changing of the Guard—it’s pretty crowded, but worth seeing. Then, take a walk through St. James’s Park, and make your way to Westminster Abbey. There’s a lot of history there, and it’s really cool to see.
Next, check out Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, then cross Westminster Bridge to ride the London Eye. The views are amazing, especially if the weather is good. After that, head to Trafalgar Square. You can visit the National Gallery if you want, and for the evening, grab dinner and watch a show in the West End. There are always musicals and plays going on, so you’ll have plenty to choose from.
Day 3: Museums and Markets
On your last day, start with the British Museum. It’s huge, and you can see the Rosetta Stone and many other treasures. Then, head over to Regent’s Park—it’s really nice for a walk. If you like animals, you can visit London Zoo while you’re there.
For lunch, make your way to Camden Market. There’s food from all over the world, and it’s got a cool vibe. Spend time walking through the market, then head to Primrose Hill in the evening. It’s a lovely spot to see the sunset over the city.
Summarized Itinerary
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1: London’s Famous Landmarks | Tower of London, Tower Bridge, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Tate Modern, Covent Garden |
| Day 2: Royals and City Views | Buckingham Palace, St. James’s Park, Westminster Abbey, London Eye, Trafalgar Square, West End |
| Day 3: Museums and Markets | British Museum, Regent’s Park, Camden Market, Primrose Hill |
5-Day London Itinerary
Day 1: Iconic Sights
Begin your London trip by seeing some of the most well-known spots. Start at Buckingham Palace for the Changing of the Guard, then walk through Green Park to Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square. These areas are always busy and full of life.
Next, make your way to Trafalgar Square. Spend some time in the National Gallery if you’re interested, then head to Covent Garden for lunch. After that, take a walk along the Embankment and ride the London Eye for great views of the city. End your day in Southbank with dinner by the river.
Day 2: Museums and Kensington
On day two, visit the museums in South Kensington. Start with the Natural History Museum—it’s full of fascinating exhibits, including dinosaurs. Then, check out the Victoria and Albert Museum, which is great for art and design.
After lunch, go to Kensington Palace. The gardens are really nice, so take a walk around. In the evening, explore Notting Hill, and have dinner in one of its cozy restaurants.
Day 3: Boat Ride and Greenwich
Today, take a boat ride on the Thames all the way to Greenwich. In Greenwich, visit the Royal Observatory, stand on the Prime Meridian, and check out the Cutty Sark, an old ship with a lot of history.
Have lunch at Greenwich Market, where there are lots of food stalls. Spend some time in Greenwich Park, then take the Docklands Light Railway back to central London.
Day 4: Windsor Day Trip
Take a day trip to Windsor, which is about an hour away by train. Visit Windsor Castle, which is still used by the royal family, and spend some time exploring the town. It’s a nice break from the city.
Return to London in the evening, and have dinner in Chelsea. The area has a lot of great places to eat.
Day 5: Markets and Local Spots
Start your final day at Borough Market for breakfast—there’s so much delicious food there. Then, visit Southwark Cathedral, which is right next door, and walk along the Thames to Shakespeare’s Globe.
In the afternoon, go up to the Shard for an incredible view of the city. After that, spend some time in Shoreditch. It’s a trendy area, full of street art and cool places to eat. Finish your day there with dinner.
Summarized Itinerary
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1: Iconic Sights | Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden, Embankment, London Eye |
| Day 2: Museums and Kensington | Natural History Museum, Victoria and Albert Museum, Kensington Palace, Notting Hill |
| Day 3: Boat Ride and Greenwich | Thames Boat Ride, Royal Observatory, Greenwich Market, Greenwich Park |
| Day 4: Windsor Day Trip | Windsor Castle, Windsor Town, Dinner in Chelsea |
| Day 5: Markets and Local Spots | Borough Market, Southwark Cathedral, Shakespeare’s Globe, The Shard, Shoreditch |
7-Day London Itinerary
Day 1: Classic Landmarks
Start your week by visiting London’s most iconic places. Begin at the Tower of London, where you can see the Crown Jewels and learn about its history. After that, walk across Tower Bridge, then head to Borough Market for lunch.
In the afternoon, visit St. Paul’s Cathedral. It’s impressive, and climbing to the top gives you a wonderful view. In the evening, explore Covent Garden, have dinner, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Day 2: Westminster and the West End
Day two takes you to Westminster Abbey. It’s packed with history and a must-see. Afterward, see Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, then cross Westminster Bridge to ride the London Eye for amazing views.
Spend the afternoon at Trafalgar Square, and maybe visit the National Gallery. In the evening, head to the West End for dinner and a show—there are always a lot of great options.
Day 3: Royal Parks and Palaces
Start the day at Buckingham Palace to watch the Changing of the Guard, then take a walk through St. James’s Park. Afterward, visit Clarence House and continue on to Hyde Park for a relaxing walk.
Make your way to Kensington Palace, then spend the evening in Notting Hill, which is full of colorful streets and good places for dinner.
Day 4: Museums in Kensington
Day four is all about museums. Start with the Natural History Museum—it’s very interesting, with lots of exhibits to check out. After that, visit the Science Museum, which is fun and hands-on. For lunch, find something nearby, then head to the Victoria and Albert Museum.
End your day in Southbank with dinner by the river.
Day 5: Oxford Day Trip
Take a day trip to Oxford. Visit the University of Oxford and some of its old colleges, like Christ Church. You can also check out the Bodleian Library, which feels like stepping back in time.
After a pub lunch, head back to London. Spend your evening in Soho, which is great for dinner and wandering around.
Day 6: Art and Camden
Start day six at Tate Modern, then head to the Shard for a great view. After that, make your way to Camden Market for lunch. Spend some time exploring Camden—there’s a lot of character, and it’s full of quirky shops.
End the day with dinner in Camden or nearby—there are plenty of fun spots to try.
Day 7: Little Venice and Hampstead
On your last day, explore some quieter spots. Start at Little Venice—it’s lovely, with boats and peaceful canals. From there, take a boat to Regent’s Park, or visit London Zoo if you’re interested.
In the afternoon, head up to Hampstead Heath. Walk up to Parliament Hill for an amazing view, then wander through Hampstead Village. Finish your day with dinner in a cozy pub—it’s the perfect end to your London trip.
Summarized Itinerary
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1: Classic Landmarks | Tower of London, Tower Bridge, Borough Market, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Covent Garden |
| Day 2: Westminster and the West End | Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, London Eye, Trafalgar Square, West End |
| Day 3: Royal Parks and Palaces | Buckingham Palace, St. James’s Park, Clarence House, Hyde Park, Kensington Palace, Notting Hill |
| Day 4: Museums in Kensington | Natural History Museum, Science Museum, Victoria and Albert Museum, Southbank |
| Day 5: Oxford Day Trip | University of Oxford, Christ Church, Bodleian Library, Soho |
| Day 6: Art and Camden | Tate Modern, The Shard, Camden Market |
| Day 7: Little Venice and Hampstead | Little Venice, Regent’s Park, Hampstead Heath, Parliament Hill, Hampstead Village |
Practical Tips for Visiting London
Visiting London is exciting, but a few tips can make your trip smoother. First, wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll walk a lot. The weather can change quickly, so carry an umbrella or raincoat. Summer months are busy, so consider visiting in spring or fall to avoid crowds.
London uses the British pound, and while most places accept credit cards, having some cash is good for small purchases. You can withdraw money from ATMs easily. Tipping in restaurants is typically around 10-12%, but check your bill to see if it’s included.
The London Underground (or Tube) is the best way to get around. Get an Oyster card, which you can top up and use on all public transport. London’s black taxis are famous, but they can be pricey; consider using ride-hailing apps like Uber for cheaper options.
Many museums are free, like the British Museum and the National Gallery, although some special exhibitions may charge an entry fee. Don’t forget to visit beautiful parks like Hyde Park and Regent’s Park for a relaxing break.
Finally, London’s diversity shines through its food. Try dishes from various cultures, from Indian curries to Middle Eastern falafel. With these tips, you’ll be ready to enjoy all that London has to offer.
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London’s Culture and History
London is rich in history, dating back to Roman times. Over the centuries, it has grown from a small settlement on the River Thames to a major global city. You’ll find historical landmarks everywhere, from the ancient Tower of London to the modern London Eye.
The monarchy plays a big role in London’s culture. Buckingham Palace is the royal family’s home, and many tourists come to see royal events. The Changing of the Guard is a popular spectacle that showcases royal tradition.
London is also known for its arts. The West End features world-class theater performances, while Shakespeare’s plays are still performed at the Globe Theatre. You can enjoy major concerts at places like the O2 Arena and Royal Albert Hall.
The city values education and thought, being home to prestigious institutions like the University of London. The British Museum offers a vast collection of artifacts, allowing you to learn about both British and world history.
Today, London is incredibly diverse, with people from all over the world living here. This diversity is reflected in the food and festivals celebrated throughout the year, making London a unique blend of history and modern life.
Food and Restaurants in London
London is a food lover’s paradise, with cuisines from around the globe. You can find traditional British dishes, like fish and chips, in pubs, as well as international options everywhere.
If you’re craving British food, try fish and chips or a hearty Sunday roast at local pubs. Areas like Soho and Covent Garden have plenty of cozy spots for meals and drinks.
For international cuisine, visit Brick Lane for Indian food, Chinatown for Chinese dishes, or the city’s many Middle Eastern restaurants. You can also enjoy Italian, Spanish, or Japanese food.
London’s markets are great for food lovers. Borough Market offers fresh produce and street food, while Camden Market has an eclectic mix of food stalls serving everything from Thai to vegan burgers.
Fine dining options are plentiful, with many Michelin-starred restaurants like Gordon Ramsay’s in Chelsea. However, you don’t have to break the bank to eat well; affordable eateries abound.
In summary, London’s food scene is as diverse as its population, offering something for every taste and budget.
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Transportation in London
Getting around London is easy thanks to its excellent public transport. The London Underground, or Tube, is the most common way to travel, connecting major areas of the city. An Oyster card or contactless payment card is the best option for easy access.
Buses are another good choice, especially in central London. Riding a double-decker bus allows you to see the city while you travel. They also accept Oyster cards, making transfers easy.
London’s black cabs are comfortable, but they can be expensive. Ride-hailing apps like Uber provide a more affordable way to get around.
Cycling is gaining popularity, with bike-sharing schemes like Santander Cycles available for rent. This is a fun way to see the parks and quieter streets. However, be cautious if you’re new to cycling in busy areas.
Walking is also a great way to explore. Many attractions are close together, especially around Westminster and Southbank. Plus, walking helps you soak in the city’s atmosphere and discover hidden gems.
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Conclusion
London is full of things to see and do, no matter how long you stay. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and amazing food, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re following a 3-day, 5-day, or 7-day London itinerary, this guide will help you enjoy the best of this incredible city.
FAQ
What is the best time to visit London?
The best time to visit London is during spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and tourist crowds are smaller.
Do I need to tip in London?
Tipping is customary in restaurants, usually around 10-12%. Check your bill, as some places include a service charge.
Is public transport in London easy to use?
Yes, public transport is efficient. The Tube and buses are user-friendly, and using an Oyster card makes travel easy.
Are there free attractions in London?
Absolutely! Many museums, like the British Museum and the National Gallery, offer free entry. Parks and markets are also free to visit.
Can I walk to see major sights in London?
Yes, many attractions are within walking distance in central London. Walking allows you to discover hidden gems along the way.
Things to do in London
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London in a Day: Private Walking Tour including the London Eye – $455.00 Enjoy a full-day private tour of London, with entrance tickets to the Tower of London, a river cruise, and the London Eye. Learn about the history and see the Crown Jewels. |
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London Private Layover Tour From London Stansted Airport – $1,449.83 Take a break from the airport with a 4 to 8-hour private tour of London. See the city’s highlights and learn its stories while enjoying your layover. |
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London for Kids with Changing of the Guard, Westminster Abbey, Tower of London – $497.43 This family-friendly tour includes visits to Westminster Abbey and the Tower of London, plus the Changing of the Guards ceremony, ensuring fun for everyone. |
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Private Tour London Highlights, entries Westminster Abbey, The Tower of London – $483.98 Join a full-day tour to see major sites, including Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey, guided by a Blue Badge guide. Public transport is included. |
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Full Day- Private Tour in the Old City of London – $599.89 Discover London’s origins with a guided tour of the Tower of London, St Paul’s Cathedral, and hidden streets. Enjoy a unique view of the city. |
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Ava Foster, a San Francisco native, is a mom, writer, and certified yoga instructor. Her authentic and relatable writing on parenthood has gained a loyal following. Beyond her role as a mother, she advocates for holistic well-being, integrating mindfulness into her daily life and sharing her journey on her blog.
