london 5 day trip plan

5 Days in London: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visitors)

How to spend 5 days in london: the best itinerary + where to stay.

You want to visit London in 5 days and you’re looking for the best places to visit?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared for you this 5-day itinerary in London. It’s perfectly optimized to allow you to discover the must-see attractions of the city .

First, I will give you all my best tips to avoid queuing at London’s main tourist attractions. Then, I will detail the day to day program, with all the best things to do and activities for each stage of your itinerary

Of course, I will also give you all my best tips and accommodation suggestions depending on your budget.

So, what are the best places to visit in London in 5 days? Where to stay?

1. The London Pass

5 days in london: must-see attractions, one last tip for a perfect 5-day stay in london, b. westminster abbey, c. buckingham palace, d. trafalgar square & the national gallery museum, e. london eye, f. tate britain and/or tate modern museum, a. st. paul’s cathedral, b. the city, c. the tower of london, d. tower bridge, e. the shard, a. notting hill, b. the natural history museum, c. hyde park, d. oxford street, f. piccadilly circus, g. covent garden, a. hampstead village, b. camden town, c. regent’s park, d. abbey road (optional), e. madame tussauds or the british museum, option 1: other districts to see in london in 5 days, option 2: visiting london’s surroundings, where to stay in london, london in 5 days with kids, other ideas of things to do and see in london in 5 days, map of your 5-day itinerary in london, find the best flight prices for your 5 days in london, you’re traveling to england these articles will help you , how to avoid waiting in line (and save a lot of time) at london’s tourist attractions.

London, one of the most touristic cities in the world, welcomes more than 20 millions tourists per year.

And they all want to discover the incredible attractions and activities the city has to offer.

Maybe you have been to the Colosseum in Rome , the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona or the Alhambra in Granada ?

If yes, you already know what it means: endless waiting lines at all the must-see attractions!

But don’t worry: there are 2 very simple solutions that will allow you to save a lot of time (and money!) during your 5-day trip to London.

The First solution, to save time and money during your 5-day trip to London is to buy the London Pass. 

This type of city pass exists for all the most touristic cities around the word.

The London Pass is valid for between 1 and 10 days (depending the option you choose when booking). As it’s a digital pass, you can download it on your smartphone and present it at the entrance of each attractions.

The London Pass grants you tourist credits that are deducted whenever you enter a site.

For example, the 5-day London Pass comes with 595 credits, which corresponds to 595€ in entrance fees even though the pass costs only 153€ to buy!

That’s really the best city pass if you’re spending 5 days in London.

With the London Pass, you will get:

• Entry to more than 80 of London’s best attractions : Westminster Abbey, Tower of London, Tower Bridge…
• A hop-on hop-off bus tour: a great way to discover London without tiring yourself out. It’s perfect if you don’t feel like walking too much or if you’re going to visit London with your kids for 5 days.
• Discounts at some souvenir shops
• A tourist guide to the city, including opening hours and how to get to each attraction.

To buy your London City Pass, simply click on the button below:

As an alternative, there’s also the London Go City Explorer Pass, that works a bit differently.

You will need to purchase a version of this pass depending on the number of attractions you want to see. So you can buy a pass for 2, 3, 4, 5 or 7 attractions.

You can book it by clicking here.

2. Skip-the-line tickets for London’s tourist attractions

Second option: To avoid waiting in line during your 5-day London itinerary, you can buy skip-the-line tickets for each tourist attraction or activity in advance.

The good news is that you will be able to purchase these priority tickets for all the best attractions in London, such as the London Eye, or the Tower Bridge or even an Harry Potter guided tour !

Here is the list of all skip-the-line tickets and excursions I will be talking about in this itinerary.

To check the prices and to book, simply click on the links below (you’ll also find them throughout the article):

• Westminster Abbey
• Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
• Tower Bridge
• Tower of London
• Boat tour on the Thames
• See a musical
• Madame Tussauds Museum
• Saint Paul’s Cathedral
• Harry Potter-themed guided tour – It’s really awesome!
• Double-decker hop-on/hop-off bus tour

If you already know your travel dates (or as soon as you will have them!) , you should really book your accommodation.

As London is one of the most touristic cities in the world , the hotels offering the best value for money are often fully booked months in advance.

As a seasoned traveler, I can assure you that it’s always by planning as far in advance as possible that I’ve found the best hotels or apartments deals.

You agree that it would be a shame to somewhat ruin your stay in London by ending up in a not-so-great hotel that costed you a fortune, right? 😅

So your best bet is to take 5 minutes now to have a look at  traveler’s favorite hotels in London.

And if you like one of the hotels you find, book it!

It’s fast, it’s easy and most accommodation offer free cancellation. That’s the best way to protect yourself from the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the best hotels deals in London , simply click on the green button below:

After securing your dream stay, it’s time to continue reading this guide!

5 days in London: the best itinerary

It’s now time to plan your 5-day itinerary in London!

For this itinerary, I assume that you’ll be spending 5 full days in London and purchased the London Pass or fast track tickets in advance. That’s the best way to save time and money during your stay!

And if after reading this guide, you still need help to plan your trip, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section located at the end of the article.

Day 1 – Discover the historic centre

Day 1 visits:

A. Big Ben B. Westminster Abbey C. Buckingham Palace D. Trafalgar Square E. London Eye F. Tate Britain and/or Tate Modern

Let’s start your 5-day visit to London with the city’s most iconic monument: Big Ben .

Located in the heart of the historic centre, this 106-metre high building known as the Clock Tower is standing on the banks of the Thames since 1858. It’s part of the Palace of Westminster , also known as the Houses of Parliament.

At the top of the Clock Tower, you can admire the famous clock with its 4 faces , each measuring 7 meters in diameter. Note that you will only be able to observe this superb monument from the outside, as only British citizens are allowed to visit the interior, after submitting an official request.

Did you know? Big Ben is actually the name given to the huge bell located inside the tower, and not the tower itself.

Right next to Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, you’ll find Westminster Abbey , another historical monument you shouldn’t miss during your 5-day trip to London.

In this religious building, countless kings and queens have been crowned , and you can see some of their tombs inside , including Mary Stuart’s.

You should really get an audio guide for this visit, as it’s the best way to learn more about the monument’s history. It even offers a more playful route to take if you’re traveling to London with kids.

As there’s often a very long waiting line in front of the entrance, you really need to get a skip-the-line ticket. The London Pass includes a visit to Westminster Abbey, but if you don’t have it, you should buy a fast-track ticket here:

And if you prefer to book a guided visit , you need to click here to book your 2h guided tour!

Ideally, you should be at the abbey when it opens (9:30 am on weekdays, 9 am on Saturdays, closed on Sundays).

After admiring Big Ben from all angles, you should continue your journey and head towards another symbol of London: the residence of the king of England, also known as Buckingham Palace.

You will arrive there in just a few minutes on foot.

If you want to watch the Changing of the Royal Guard , which takes place every other day (specifically on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays), you should be in front of the palace early to get a good spot, as there is always a huge crowd for the occasion.

The Changing of the Guard starts at 11 am and consists of a parade of the king’s soldiers accompanied by a military band. The event lasts about 40 minutes and is truly a spectacle not to be missed during your 5 days in London.

In case of rain (which is quite frequent, after all, we are in London 😄), the Changing of the Guard ceremony is canceled . An online calendar allows you to check whether it’s happening: online calendar.

The interior of Buckingham Palace is open to the public for only 2 months per year, (usually in August and September).

If you book very early, given that there are limited places, you can choose between 3 visits:

• Ticket for the State Rooms
• Entry to the Queen’s Gallery and its numerous works of art
• Entry to the Royal Mews , housing the royal family’s carriages, among other things.

Next up on your 5-day London itinerary is the iconic Trafalgar Square !

A pleasant 15-20 minute walk through the picturesque, flower-filled St. James Park will lead you to one of the city’s most vibrant and bustling squares.

The square’s signature feature? Four massive black lion statues majestically guarding the central fountain, a sight you can’t miss.

Take a break, grab a bite to eat, and soak up the atmosphere as you enjoy live street performances that happen nearly every day.

Just a stone’s throw away from the square, the world-renowned National Gallery museum invites you to indulge in an hour or two of art appreciation.

Founded in 1824, the National Gallery stands as one of London’s most captivating art museums. Inside, you’ll discover an extraordinary collection of masterpieces , from Van Gogh’s enchanting “Sunflowers” to iconic works by Monet, Cézanne, Picasso, Rembrandt, and Leonardo da Vinci.

And the cherry on top? Admission is completely free at all British national museums, making it an opportunity you simply can’t pass up!

To plan your visit, find opening hours on the official website.

After visiting the museum, it’s time to elevate your 5 days in London itinerary —literally!

Let’s take a thrilling ride to the clouds.

Just a quick 10-15 minutes (on foot or by bus) from the historical heart of London, you’ll find the iconic London Eye , standing in front of Big Ben.

Step into Europe’s tallest Ferris wheel and ascend to an astonishing 130 meters for a bird’s-eye view of the cityscape.

Fear not if you’re vertigo-prone! The capsules are incredibly spacious (holding 25 people) and enclosed, easing the sensation of height. In addition, the wheel moves at a leisurely pace, allowing you to fully enjoy the experience.

Trust me, the jaw-dropping panoramic view of London from this vantage point is an unforgettable sight.

A full rotation takes about 30 minutes, and you really need to book your spot in advance to secure this must-do activity on your trip.

To book your London eye ticket , simply click on the button below:

And if you’re planning more activities, you should have a look at the combined ticket : London Eye + Thames Cruise + Hop-on Hop-off Bus.

It’s a great way to save money!

To wrap up your first day in London, you should visit 2 must-see museums: the Tate Britain and Tate Modern museums.

Located on opposite banks of the Thames, the two museums are connected by a river shuttle that allows you to quickly travel between them. The shuttle runs every 40 minutes.

These 2 art museums are among London’s most interesting and popular attractions.

Tate Britain, on the north bank (opposite the London Eye), focuses on classic British art , showcasing works by Hogarth, William Blake, and Turner .

On the other hand, Tate Modern is dedicated to modern art in general.

Both museums are free and open daily from 10 am to 6 pm.

If you want to enjoy a beautiful view of London at night , you can switch the London Eye ride with the museum visits.

So you will first visit the museums , and then head to the London Eye around sunset time.

To do this, after the National Gallery:

• Head towards the Thames and find Embankment Pier
• Take the river shuttle to Millbank Pier , which will drop you right in front of Tate Britain’s entrance
• For Tate Modern , stop at Bankside Pier

2nd day: What to do and see?

Day 2 visits:

A. St. Paul’s Cathedral B. The City C. The Tower of London D. Tower Bridge E. The Shard

After a good night’s sleep, you will spend your second day in London in the City area.

You should start by visiting the St. Paul’s Cathedral , a Baroque religious building built in the 17th century .

Inside St. Paul’s Cathedral, you can admire:

• The beautiful nave
• The mysterious Whispering Gallery
• The Stone Gallery
• The Golden Gallery
• The crypt, where Sir Christopher Wren, the cathedral’s architect, rests:
• A superb view from the dome (85 metres high).

If you purchased the London Pass , entry to St. Paul’s is included.

Otherwise, you need to book your skip the line tickets by clicking on the button below:

During your 5 days in London, you will have the time to pass by London’s business district.

It’s called The City and it’s also the geographic centre of London.

Take the time to stroll through the streets (while passing the businessmen and women of England who are so classy and well dressed) and see the icon of the district: the famous cucumber-shaped skyscraper nicknamed ‘The Gherkin’.

In The City, you should also go to the Sky Garden to enjoy the 360° view from London’s highest public garden.

And you know the best? It’s free!

However, the places are limited, so you need to book in advance here.

In The City district, you will also find historical monuments, such as the famous Tower of London.

It’s located a 15 minute walk from the ‘Gherkin’ , right next to Tower Bridge (your next stop!).

Built in 1066 , the Tower of London is an ancient fortress , now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It has served as a royal residence, a prison, and a place of execution.

Nowadays, the Tower of London is a museum that focuses in particular on the macabre history of medieval London . For example, you can visit the former torture chamber and hear stories of execution told by guides in period costume.

Despite the theme, it’s a fun and unusual visit that kids and adults alike really enjoy!

Inside the Tower of London, you can also see The Crown Jewels . Everyday, a crowd of curious visitors come here to admire them through the security glass.

During your visit, don’t miss the outdoor gardens, they are particularly beautiful.

Don’t hesitate to take the guided tour that is included with your admission ticket . There is a departure every 30 minutes from the main entrance.

Entry to the tower of London is included in the London Pass . If you don’t have the city pass, you need too buy your tickets by clicking on the button below:

Your 5-day itinerary in London will now take you to another iconic monument: the famous Tower Bridge!

You can’t miss it, as it’s located just opposite the Tower of London.

With its 2 huge Gothic towers and sky blue ironwork, you will immediately recognize it. It’s even more impressive at night when it’s illuminated!

This bridge was built across the Thames in the 19th century, and has connected the north and south banks of London since then. At the time it was built, it was the most sophisticated bascule bridge in the world.

You can admire it from the riverbank (it’s even more impressive in the evening when all the lights are on) and also cross it on foot.

If you wish to, you can also visit the former engine room located inside one of the two towers. And when climbing up to the top decks, the glass walkway will make you feel like you’re floating above the river!

Entry to Tower Bridge is included in the London Pass.

If you only want to buy a skip-the-line ticket for this attraction, you need to click on the button below:

The port of St Katharine Docks located at the foot of Tower Bridge is definitely worth stopping for a stroll. You can also dine in one of the many restaurants in this area, with a view of the Thames.

To end your day in style, you should visit The Shard , one of London’s newest skyscraper. It’s located just a 10-minute walk from Tower Bridge.

With more than 300 metres high, this building is also the highest observation platform in Western Europe. Needless to say, the view over London is spectacular!

Inside the building, you will also find a multimedia exhibition about the city’s history.

The ticket to the Shard is included in the London Pass.

If you don’t have the pass, you need to book your tickets in advance by clicking on the button below:

Day 3 – Best places to visit in London

Day 3 visits:

A. Notting Hill B. The Natural History Museum C. Hyde Park D. Oxford Street E. Soho F. Piccadilly Circus G. Covent Garden

Let’s start your 3rd day in London with a walk to Portobello Road market, in the famous Notting Hill district.

Popularised by the movie “Notting Hill” starring Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts, this chic and bucolic neighbourhood is located to the west of the city.

You will for sure love the beautiful houses featuring pastel-coloured façades, the flower-filled cobbled streets. This quiet and elegant district is very charming!

Every morning, the Portobello market attracts a crowd of tourists and locals who come to shop and stroll around the numerous stands of second-hand goods, antiques, street food and all sorts of objects .

To make the most of your visit to Notting Hill, you should really book this guided tour:

If your 5-day trip to London falls in August, and more precisely on the last weekend of the month , you will be able to attend the annual Notting Hill Carnival.

You should now head to the Natural History Museum , located about 20 minutes away by bus.

This gorgeous museum was simply one of my favorite visits during my 5-day trip to London!

The Natural History Museum, housed in a remarkable Gothic building , is for sure one of the most beautiful and largest museums in London. It’s also the most visited natural history museum in Europe, with more than 5 million visitors every year.

There, you will find an astronomical number of exhibits of all kinds on botany, volcanology, zoology, archaeology, mineralogy etc. You would have to spend several days to really see everything.

The museum also offers lots of fun activities for children.

You should plan to visit the museum for about 2 hours, to have enough time for the other visits of the day.

After visiting the museum, let’s get some greenery in London’s largest park: Hyde Park.

You can get there on foot in 20 minutes or by public transport in 15 minutes.

Hyde Park is considered one of the world’s most beautiful urban parks. Here, you can have a picnic, enjoy a drink or a lunch on  the terrace of a restaurant, do a bit of sport or simply wander around.

If you’re in London at the end of the year, you can go to Hyde Park and enjoy the huge Christmas market , the Winter Wonderland amusement park or the largest ice rink in the United Kingdom.

And if you’ve decided to go to London for 5 days during summer , you can attend concerts and festivals in Hyde Park.

In the north-east corner of the park, you can see a little London oddity: The Speakers’ Corner . Every Sunday, anonymous speakers give a speech to passers-by , often with a touch of humour.

As you exit Hyde Park via the north-east access (Marble Arch), you will immediately come across Oxford Street , the “Champs-Elysées” of London.

This street stretching over 2.5 km is a real paradise for shopping lovers.

You will find more than 600 shops here, including major British brands such as Marks & Spencer, TopShop, Mush, Primark, Urban Outfitters etc.

This is your chance to do some shopping or window shopping while heading to the next stop.

At the end of Oxford Street, you will reach Soho district.

This small district is the most lively and festive in London. This is where all the locals and tourists get together for an evening out!

Theatres, pubs, restaurants, nightclubs, cinemas … you will find everything you need to have fun and enjoy a good evening in an festive atmosphere any day of the week.

For an original evening, you can for example go to a musical in one of Soho’s theaters. It’s a great activity to do during a 5-day stay in London!

You can for example attend Les Misérables at Sondheim Theatre. Tickets are for sale here.

The equally famous “Phantom of the Opera” is also staged regularly. Tickets needs to be purchased in advance right there!

If you’re looking for an original experience in Soho, you really should opt for the Harry Potter-themed guided tour .

Departing from Soho, your guide will take you to the cult locations from the films including Diagon Alley, Gringotts, platform 9 3/4, Knockturn Alley and much more besides. It’s a really good tour and the guide is amazing!

To book your Harry Potter guided tour , simply click on the button below:

As you walk through Soho and follow the crowds, you will inevitably arrive at Piccadilly Circus.

This lively square is famous for its giant advertising screens. You’ve probably already seen pictures of it!

Covent Garden is about a 10 minute walk away from Piccadilly Circus.

This is where you’ll find the former markets halls of London and its superb glass roof.

Relocated in 1970, Covent Garden is today one of London’s main tourist attractions. There, you will find many shops, restaurants, artists’ workshops, street performances and the London Transport Museum .

Day 4 – Walk in London

Day 4 visits:

A. Hampstead Village B. Camden Town C. Regent’s Park D. Abbey Road (optional) E. Madame Tussauds or British Museum

Let’s continue your 5-day tour of London and head to the north of the city.

You should start by visiting Hampstead Village , a quiet neighbourhood in the heights of London. It’s the perfect way to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city without actually leaving it!

You will for sure love walking among the flower-filled gardens and the beautiful Victorian houses.

There are also many cafés and restaurants.

Hampstead Village is just a 20-minute metro ride from central London.

While in the northern part of London, you should really go to Camden Town!

This trendy neighbourhood is famous for its impressive shop facades adorned with huge figurines in crazy colours.

Mixing the world of punks, goths and alter-globalists , the area is packed with offbeat boutiques, piercing/tattoo parlours and second-hand shops… all in a welcoming and friendly atmosphere!

Here, you will also find Camden Lock Market , a market open from 10h to 18h every day.

Take a stroll among the stalls selling clothes, unusual objects and antiques while enjoying the live music bands and watching the street performers.

And if you’re hungry, you can find street food from around the world along Regent’s Canal.

After your visit to Camden Town, you should go to Regent’s Park , just a 10 minute walk away.

This 166 hectares park is simply the most flowery park in London . It once belonged to the royal family before becoming a public garden in the 19th century.

There, you will find

• Nice paths and alleys for a quiet stroll or a bit of sport
• Sports fields
• The lake, where you can hire a small boat or a pedalo
• Large green spaces
• Playgrounds for children
• Restaurants and cafés
• Queen Mary’s Rose Garden .

If you’re a Beatles fan , don’t miss Abbey Road and its legendary zebra crossing.

It’s located less than 2 km away from Regent’s Park.

It’s here, in the Abbey Road studios, that the iconic English band recorded their album of the same name.

Of course, you will probably reproduce the famous photo of the Beatles on the Abbey Road zebra crossing. Just be careful with the traffic!

There are generally lots of tourists so you might have to queue.

Near the recording studios, there is a gift shop dedicated to the Beatles.

To end your 4th day in London, you should visit of one of these 2 museums, depending on your preferences and your budget:

• Madame Tussauds: this world famous waxworks museum is a 20-minute bus ride from Abbey Road.

There, you can snap pictures with the top celebrities… or rather with their wax lookalikes. Most of them are incredibly realistic!

You should plan to spend 2 to 3 hours inside the museum.

You need to book your tickets in advance by clicking on the green button below:

• The British Museum: for culture and history lovers

Alternatively, you can end the day with a visit to the British Museum. From Regent’s Park, you can get there in 20 minutes by metro.

As with all national museums in England, admission is free .

This museum dedicated to anthropology is housed in a magnificent period building . There, you will find numerous archaeological remains (including several mummies and the famous Rosetta Stone!).

The museum’s collection is one of the richest in the world, with more than 7 million objects on display!

Day 5: Last day in or around London

Visiting London in 5 days will give you enough time to explore the city more in depth, or even to do a day trip to discover the surroundings.

So for your fifth and final day, I have 2 suggestions for you:

• Stay in the city and spend the last day discovering new districts.
• Go on a day trip around London. I will give you all the best places to visit around London a bit below.
• Discover the district of Chelsea

You can start your last day in London by spending the morning in Chelsea district.

Located in central London, Chelsea is a well known upmarket neighbourhood featuring numerous luxury shops and designer boutiques. Most of them are located on King’s Road.

While in Chelsea, you shouldn’t miss the elegant Duke of York Square and its chic bars, restaurants, as well as the ‘Saatchi Gallery’, a contemporary art museum.

And for those who prefer simplicity, Chelsea is also famous for its stylish and colourful houses located in quiet alleys. If that’s what you’re looking for, head to Burnsall Street, Godfrey Street and Bywater Street.

This last street also regularly attracts cinema and photo shoots.

Taking Thames cruise is the perfect way to discover the city from another angle!

Several companies (including City Cruises, Crown River Cruise, Thames Clippers and Thames River Services) offer river tours of 20 minutes to 3 hours , allowing you to discover London’s landmarks from the river.

There are several piers to take the boat along the banks of the Thames, especially near Big Ben, towards the Tower of London / Tower Bridge or at the London Eye.

There are also hop-on hop-off boat tours . It’s exactly like the tourist bus, but with a boat! You can get on and off the boat when you want and visit the main tourist attractions of the city.

You need to book your ticket for the Hop-on Hop-off cruise here:

• The district of Greenwich:

You can take advantage of your boat tour on the Thames to visit Greenwich and spend the afternoon there.

Greenwich is located in the outskirts of London and can be easily reached by boat.

In this district, you will enjoy:

• The remarkable architecture
• Victorian and Georgian monuments
• Large public parks
• To take a walk by the river
• The famous Greenwich Meridian (tickets available by clicking here!) at a longitude of exactly 0°at the Royal Observatory.

Other things to see in Greenwich:

• The Cutty Sark (tickets here!), a big sailing boat built in 1869 and converted into a museum
• Greenwich Market
• The splendid view over London from the Observatory

You can also visit the Greenwich National Maritime Museum during your 5-day stay in London.

It’s one of the largest maritime museums in the world and entry is free , just like all national museums in England.

Here you can learn everything about British maritime history. The exhibitions are mostly interactive and designed with children in mind , making it a good museum to visit with your family.

• Warner Bros. Studios – Harry Potter

This is the perfect day trip for fans of the Harry Potter saga!

The Warner Bros. studios, where the 8 Harry Potter movies were shot, are just a few kilometres outside London.

Most of the films were shot in these studios, which have now been turned into a giant museum.

There, you will get immersed in the world of the famous wizard: try your hand at flying on a broom , taste the famous butterbeer and take a stroll along Diagon Alley!

Discover the film sets, the props, the costumes and learn all the secrets and anecdotes about the films. Personally, I loved it!

The tour must be booked in advance by clicking on the green button below.

And you know the best? The bus transfers from London are included 😎.

• Explore Stratford-upon-Avon

Visiting the home town of Shakespeare is also a great choice for the last day of your trip.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a charming small town located 1-hour drive from London.

There, you can admire the traditional English cottages , take idyllic strolls, and see the house where Shakespeare was born and lived.

The cool thing is that you can visit Stratford with an organized day trip that also goes to Oxford!

You need to book your guided tour here:

• Visit to Windsor Castle

Windsor is another charming little town to visit around London.

Getting there is super simple. Just go to Paddington Station and take the train. The journey takes about 45 minutes.

In Windsor, you will for sure want to visit its famous castle, the royal family’s second home. Admission tickets must   be booked in advance here:

For a hassle free experience, you can visit Windsor with guided tour from London. Everything is included, and you will discover 3 amazing places during the day:  Windsor,  Oxford and Stonehenge!

You need to book this day trip by clicking here.

You can also choose to spend the day in Cambridge , one of the most beautiful cities to visit near London.

It’s just a 45-minute train ride from King’s Cross train station.

There, you will explore the famous Cambridge university and spend the day admiring the city’s beautiful Gothic architecture.

To discover the best of Cambridge , you can opt for one of the following:

• Guided walking tour of the city + river boat tour
• Guided tour of the university with entrance to King’s College
• Hop-on hop-off bus tour

Another option is to visit Oxford , a town a bit bigger than Cambridge, and just as remarkable for its architecture.

And the good news it that Oxford is only an hour’s train ride from London!

The city is home to Oxford University , the oldest university in the English speaking world.

You can easily visit Oxford on foot in one day . Don’t miss the famous castle-like university (which actually inspired Hogwarts) and the superb Gothic Christ Church cathedral.

As I mentioned earlier, the day trip to Stratford-upon-Avon also goes to Oxford . You need to book it by clicking here.

If you are going there by yourself, here are a few great tours to discover Oxford like a local:

• Walking tour of the university and the city with a student from Oxford
• Private guided tour of the city and university
• Harry Potter filming location Oxford tour
• Hop-on hop-off bus tour.

Less than an hour’s train ride from London, Brighton is a popular coastal town amongst Londoners. They usually go there on weekends, to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

You will for sure love its pebble beach, seafront restaurants and pretty cobbled streets!

In the modern part of the town, you can go to the top of the British Airways tower: hop in the glass elevator pod and reach a height of 138 meters. From up there, you will enjoy the view over the entire coast.

Tickets needs to be purchased here.

You now have a good idea of the best things to do in London in 5 days!

There is just one more thing to do: booking your hotel. Where will you stay during these 5 days?

In order to help you out, I have selected the best hotels in London depending on your budget.

Remember that t he further in advance you book , the better your chance of finding affordable accommodation. The best deals don’t last long, especially in London!

So if you know your travel dates, you should really book your hotel night now!

• The Chamberlain: Close to the Tower Bridge, the Tower of London and the banks of the Thames. This British-style hotel offers cosy, comfortable double rooms from 120€ per night, breakfast 12€. Strong points: a smartphone is made available, excellent locations, the welcoming staff and the comfortable bed linen. It’s my favourite for its excellent value for money!
• Hotel Indigo London – Kensington: This hotel is in the borough of Kensington and Chelsea, and very close to a tube station. Well-equipped, quiet and warm double room from 200€, breakfast from 19€. Strong points: the quiet area, cosy ambience cosy, the smiling and efficient staff.
• Haymarket Hotel, Firmdale Hotels: 5* hotel close to London’s “theatreland”, minutes on foot from St James Park and 15 minutes from Buckingham Palace. Really comfortable, spacious and quiet double room from 390€ per night, breakfast 20€. Strong points: perfect location, charming staff and excellent bed linen. The best choice for a romantic stay in London!
• The Soho Hotel, Firmdale Hotels: A luxury hotel right in the heart of London, 5 minutes from Oxford Street and Soho, and just 10 minutes from Piccadilly Circus. Really spacious designer and magnificently decorated double room from 500€ per night, breakfast 29€. Strong points: the perfect geographical location, magnificent bedrooms, the sumptuous breakfast. The best hotel in London for a luxury stay!

If you’d prefer a London hotel that isn’t too expensive, you should check out the “Z Hotel” chain. You can find them in lots of different areas of London, and prices start of 60€ per night. They’re the best bet for budget accommodation in London.

• The Z Hotel Shoreditch
• The Z Hotel Gloucester Place
• The Z Hotel City
• The Z Hotel Victoria
• The Z Hotel Piccadilly
• The Z Hotel Soho

Wondering if this 5-day itinerary in London is possible and would be enjoyable with your family?

The answer is yes, of course!

Depending on the age of your kids, you might want to make a few slight changes to this itinerary . They’ll love most of places to visit and activities mentioned, but you may need to spend a bit less time in the museums, as it might not be the most interesting for them.

That said, most of London’s museums offer fun tours and workshops especially for children, and they don’t generally last more than 1 hour.

To help you adjust this itinerary as needed, I have made you a list of visits and activities in London that kids enjoy the most:

• The National History Museum is a treat for children, as is the Greenwich Maritime Museum . As mentioned above, most of the museums in London offer short and fun tours for children.
• Children generally love Madame Tussauds museum
• The Tower of London and its mediaeval atmosphere
• The Changing of the Guard in front of Buckingham Palace
• See a family musical in Soho
• Take a boat tour on the Thames.

If you or your kids are Harry Potter fans , you can also spend a day at Harry Potter Studios , located a bit outside the city.

It’s really a magical experience!

The best tour include the entrance ticket to Harry Potter Studios as well as the transportation from your hotel.

You need to book this tour by clicking on the button below:

You’ve followed my 5-day itinerary in London and have a bit more time left in the English capital?

In this case, you should read my guide of the best places to visit in London: The 20 best things to do in London.

There, you will for sure find even more ideas of activities and things to see during your 5-day trip to London!

To help you visualize your itineraries during your 5 days in London, I have created this map with all the places to visit day by day . You can display the map legend by clicking the button with a small arrow located on the top left corner.

You can thus see the suggested itineraries for each day.

As always, you should book your plane tickets as early as possible to get the best prices.

To check the rates and schedules for flights to London, you can use our flight comparator, in partnership with Skyscanner:

Discover all my articles about London : All my articles to help you plan your trip to England are listed there.

• London: Top 20 best things to do
• 2 days in London – The perfect itinerary for 48h!
• 3 Days in London – The best 72h itinerary
• 4 Days in London – The defitinive guide to plan your trip
• 5 Days in London – How to plan your itinerary + My best tips!
• One week in London – The perfect 7-day itinerary
• Where to stay in London? My guide of the best places to stay for all budgets

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Posted on Published: 17th November 2021  - Last updated: 15th November 2023 Categories London Travel Tips

By: Author Lauren Kendrick

5 Days in London – The Perfect Itinerary

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Planning a trip to the capital and wondering how to spend 5 days in London? We’ve got you covered.

If you’re only in London for 2 days , it’s tempting to cram everything in – but if you’re visiting the capital for a longer period of time, consider adopting a slower pace. Don’t tire yourself out trying to see absolutely everything – it’s impossible and you won’t enjoy it.

Whether you want to make a beeline straight for the tourist attractions or prefer to get off the beaten path, 5 days gives you plenty of time to see all the cool bits, which is exactly what this itinerary does. 

With this five-day London itinerary, you get to see London’s biggest sights, a few more offbeat local spots – and all without breaking a sweat while you do it. 

5 Days in London Itinerary: Day One 

9am – hyde park.

There’s no better way to start your London trip than with an early morning wander through Hyde Park.

Grab yourself a coffee from GAIL’s nearby and spend an hour or two meandering your way around, making sure to pass Serpentine Lake in the middle on the way.

This is arguably the most famous (and popular) London park, so expect to see joggers and dog walkers galore.

Once you’ve explored Hyde Park, cross over to walk through Green Park and over to Buckingham Palace.

10:30am – Changing of the Guards at Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is, of course, a must do during your five days in London. 

The palace is every bit as grand as you might imagine – with 775 rooms on the inside and more gold than you could shake a stick at on the outside.

Make sure you arrive at Buckingham Palace around 10:45am so you have plenty of time to snap photos before you watch The Changing of the Guard , which usually takes place at 11am. 

If you’re confused, The Changing of the Guard is officially when The Queen’s Guard hands over responsibility for protecting Buckingham Palace and St. James’s Palace to the New Guard. 

You can read our complete guide to attending this event here .

12pm – Brunch at Timmy Green

Is there a meal better than brunch ? We think not. Reward yourself for your walk thus far with a trip to Timmy Green for an Aussie take on bottomless brunch. 

A banana bread sandwich, shakshuka, sweetcorn fritters, and a fancy bacon roll are all on the menu – or go all out with The Bondi: bacon, eggs, a chilli and fennel sausage, mushrooms, avocado, house chilli pesto, and cold fermented activated charcoal sourdough (whatever that means). 

All washed down with copious amounts of fizz and mimosas. And then you’re ready to continue with your first of five days in London. 

You can also pop over to Number 10 Downing Street, a.k.a the official residence of Prime Minister Boris Johnson, on the way.

2pm – Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament

Next up: Westminster Abbey . This stunning gothic building has been the country’s coronation church (where the monarch is officially crowned) since 1066.

Going inside isn’t completely necessary – you can snap some impressive pictures from outside the abbey – though it is eerily beautiful. Amongst the graves of past monarchs you’ll find Poet’s Corner, where some of the nation’s leading literary figures are buried or commemorated.

Pop across the road to see the equally impressive Houses of Parliament in the Palace of Westminster.

Famed for being the home of British politics and the subject of Guy Fawkes’ notorious gunpowder plot, this is an important British building you must visit on your trip to London. 

That said, if you want to go inside you’ll need to book a tour – we’ve got you covered in our handy guide here .

Technically part of the Palace of Westminster, the iconic Big Ben is perched next door. But be warned – the giant clock tower is currently undergoing some serious renovations for the next couple of years… you can still see one of the clock faces, but it’s not quite as pretty as it usually is.

Afterwards, cross over Westminster Bridge and make your way over to the London Eye.

4pm – London Eye

Time for a total guilty pleasure – and if you can time it around sunset then definitely do so.

The London Eye is a total gimmick, but it’s magical (especially when rosy hues illuminate the capital) and a must do when you visit London for five days. 

Tickets will set you back around £27 (with fast track entry) and include 365 degree views in a shared pod.

In addition to regular tickets, you can book yourself VIP tickets or even hire a private capsule to yourself. To be totally honest, we recommend saving your money and heading elsewhere for a cocktail or two. 

You’re right on the doorstep of Waterloo , so it would be rude not to venture there in the evening.

6pm – Dinner and Drinks in Waterloo

Waterloo is one of our favourite places in the capital to eat and drink – the area is bursting with cool restaurants, quirky bars, and gorgeous rooftop views.

Foodwise, Crust Bros casual eatery is a safe bet. Italian pizza done proper – with an impressive take on the humble margarita, as well as some more exotic options (not a pineapple in sight, though). For something more upmarket, Brasserie Blanc is a great date night spot.

If it’s casual drinks you’re after, look no further than Jack’s Bar – or for dreamy views (and impressive cocktails), head to Bar Elba . If you want a bit of casual drama though, we love Tonight Josephine – which is all lit up in neon and plays danceable bangers all night. 

You can find our complete guide to Waterloo here . 

5 Days in London Itinerary: Day Two 

10am – oxford street, piccadilly circus, and leicester square.

Day 2 is a day of total tourist indulgence. Usually we would say skip Oxford Street, but if you’re visiting for the first time you’ll totally want to go. Be warned – it’s hectic (and not really anything special).

Once you’ve battled hordes of people and made your way up and down the famous shopping street, dip down Regent’s Street and head towards Piccadilly Circus and snap yourself a few cool photos for the ‘gram. 

Leicester Square is up next, but don’t bother drinking, buying, or eating anything here. You’ll be faced with naff food and high prices – it’s all a trap. 

Instead, opt for a spot of lunch in nearby Soho before making your way to Trafalgar Square.

2pm – Trafalgar Square

Famously home to Nelson’s Column and the neoclassical National Gallery building, among a plethora of other interesting things to see, Trafalgar Square should be right at the very top of your London bucket list .

Admire the lions, snap a photo of the fountains, listen to the street performers that often gather there – you could spend hours people-watching here. 

Don’t though. Head on into the National Gallery for an afternoon of culture, dahling.

3pm – National Gallery 

If you’re an art enthusiast – or just want to say you’ve seen one of the world’s best collections of art – you’ll want to spend a few hours in the National Gallery .

Like many of the capital’s museums and art galleries , entry is free but you’ll need to book a ticket in advance . 

This means you’ll get to see work by the likes of Vermeer, Titian, Van Gogh, Rembrandt, and other famous names, without making so much as a dent in your wallet. 

Take your time; there’s lots to see. Afterwards, head back up through Soho towards the West End.

5pm – The West End

Famed for its theatres and magical productions, we highly recommend booking yourself a ticket to a West End show. 

Some of our favourite productions over the years have been the long-running Les Miserables, the teenage-angst filled Heathers, and the ultimate girl-power cheesefest that is Six. Though, you can check what’s on for yourself here .

If you don’t fancy treating yourself to a show, it’s still worth making a pit stop to admire the glitz and glamour of the area. Or, head straight for a pre-dinner cocktail.

7pm – Dinner and Cocktails in Soho 

Soho is abundant with brilliant places to eat dinner or grab a cheeky evening cocktail. 

There’s paella heaven at Barrafina , steak and Champagne at Bob Bob Ricard (our personal favourite), or flavourful Vietnamese dishes at Cây Tre . 

Head into Chinatown afterwards for drinks – order literally anything from Experimental Cocktail Club and you can’t go wrong.

5 Days in London Itinerary: Day Three 

9am – tower of london and tower bridge.

After a slower two days to ease you into the London lifestyle, today’s itinerary is a little bit more hectic.

You’ll want to visit the Tower of London early – if not to beat the crowds, to fit everything in. 

The Tower of London has an interesting (albeit gruesome) past, with a seriously long list of people being executed there. Aside from that, the Tower of London is well-known for rather successfully holding onto the Crown Jewels and the Beefeaters who reside there.

Opposite the Tower of London, you’ll come to another of London’s icons: Tower Bridge . The neo-Gothic Bridge first opened in 1894, and you’ll want to head to the Girl with a Dolphin Statue to snap the best shot. Thank us later. 

10am – The Shard

As London’s tallest building, it’s not surprising that so many people want to visit The Shard during a trip to London. 

Head up to levels 69 – 72 for panoramic views of up to 40 miles at the View From The Shard .

11am – Borough Market for Lunch

You could easily spend hours wandering Borough Market , gorging on samples and filling yourself up on sweet treats – and you totally should. 

London has a pretty poppin’ street food scene , but Borough Market tops the list in our humble opinion. Don’t believe us? Go and try it for yourself – you’ll love it.

From an indulgent cheese toastie at Kappacasein to pillowy bao buns at Bao Borough, there’s something for everyone.

1pm – The Tate Modern

Tate actually boasts two brilliant museums in the capital: The Tate Modern , and the more traditional offering at Tate Britain. Both are equally wonderful, but we think the modern has a slight edge over the other one.

It’s free entry, though you’ll need to snag a timed ticket to get in. Not a problem usually, but worth booking well in advance.

Once inside, you’ll be treated to innovative art and exhibitions by the world’s top modern artists. The likes of Damien Hirst, Yayoi Kusama, and Tracey Emin are the big names here.

3pm – St Paul’s Cathedral

Next, head over the rather unusual – and very cool – Millennium Bridge towards St Paul’s Cathedral .

St Paul’s Cathedral has been built and rebuilt five times, most famously after the Great Fire of London that burned most of the city to the ground – and today it still stands as one of the most iconic buildings in the capital.

The current St Paul’s was designed by Sir Christopher Wren (the genius behind most of London’s striking landmarks) and, if you can believe it’s possible, the inside is even more stunning. Well worth the small entry fee.

4pm – St Dunstan in the East

Head over to St Dunstan in the East , passing the Great Fire of London monument. 

This very much comes under the category of hidden gem – most Londoners have never heard of it, yet alone been – but you should pay a visit while you’re in the area.

So what is it? It’s a tiny tropical haven in the grounds of an abandoned church – in other words, it’s a very peaceful spot to drink a late afternoon coffee (or hot chocolate). 

We won’t spoil it for you, but it’s a stunner.

5pm – Sky Garden

Just like with the London eye, timing a visit to Sky Garden during sunset is half the battle. 

Swing by this leafy oasis that sits atop the Walkie Talkie building for sweeping views of the capital drenched in an orange glow and a tasty pre-dinner cocktail.

If you want to know more about how to visit the Sky Garden and how to beat queues, we’ve given you the complete rundown here .

7pm – Dinner at Leadenhall Market

Ah, Leadenhall Market . The perfect dinner spot. 

Tucked away in the heart of The City is a lovely market that looks like something straight out of Harry Potter (fun fact: it is).

Explore the market and experience over 700 years of history, before settling down for a mouthwatering meal at Giorgio – a sophisticated Italian joint serving up authentic subterranean food. Think fresh pasta and toothsome seafood.

If you’re not quite ready to call it a night, head over to Broker’s Wine Bar for a glass or two.

5 Days in London Itinerary: Day Four 

10am – portobello road market.

Day two was busy AF – treat yourself to a little bit of a lie in on day three of five in London.

Portobello Road Market is one of the most iconic markets in London : the world’s largest antiques market runs everyday (bar Sunday) and is a great place to pick up a bargain or just spend the morning weaving through.

You can also opt to explore the Notting Hill area while you’re here – you’ll find plenty of cafes where you can grab a coffee and pastry/brunch before heading to the Natural History Museum.

12pm – Kensington Palace and Gardens

Leave Notting Hill for Kensington ’s museum mile – passing through Kensington Palace and Gardens on the way.

Kensington Palace is the official diggs of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and their children. As you can imagine, the gardens are rather breathtaking and attract plenty of visitors throughout the day.

Make sure to check out the recently-unveiled Princess Diana statue that sits in the Sunken Garden before you leave for the Natural History Museum.

1pm – Natural History Museum

Book yourself a ticket to the Natural History Museum and relive those exciting school trips from the yesteryears.

You’ll enter through Hintze Hall where Hope – a blue whale skeleton – will greet you. And the rest of the museum is just as cool.

Learn about the history of planet earth, walk in the footsteps of the dinosaurs, and explore outer space in a fun journey through our natural world. 

3pm – The V&A

If you’re geed up from the first museum, why not head into the V&A while you’re in the area.

We LOVE the Victoria and Albert Museum. The first stone in this stunning Gothic building was actually laid by Queen V herself, and the museum boasts art and design pieces old and new, as well as plenty of interesting exhibitions to make your way around. 

5pm – Covent Garden 

Covent Garden may be one of London’s more famous area’s, but it still boasts plenty of charm and wonderful things to do.

Take Neal’s Yard , for example. Dreamy buildings and fairy-light laden trees contain a wealth of cafes, restaurants, and shops to explore. 

And that’s before you’ve even stepped foot in Covent Garden’s Apple Market.

8pm – Dinner and Drinks at Clos Maggiore

Covent Garden is no stranger to a fantastic restaurant. When it comes to places to fill up, it’s easily one of the best in London.

Clos Maggiore brings French glamour (and Paris prices) to Covent Garden, offering mouthwatering dishes that are created using local ingredients.The native lobster with fennel, tarragon, orange, and lobster sauce was always going to be a winner.

Though, if you’re looking for somewhere a little more wallet-friendly, Cafe Murano fits the bill quite nicely.

Why stop there? Head for cocktails at Upstairs at Rules or Frenchie and end the day with a bang. You deserve it.

5 Days in London Itinerary: Day Five 

10am – the painted hall and greenwich observatory.

Final day in London ? You may be tempted to fire through anything remaining on your list, but by now you’ve seen all the biggies and can spend the day exploring at a leisurely pace.

Head over to Greenwich and visit The Painted Hall inside the Royal Naval College, which is basically the UK version of the Sistine Chapel. Once you’ve ooh-ed and aah-ed yourself silly – and pretty much maxed out your camera roll – head over to the giant park where you’ll find the Observatory and Planetarium.

12pm – Lunch at Greenwich Market

Dating back to the 18th century, Greenwich Market is one of the prettiest in the capital – and is also one of the best places to find street food.  

Sometimes a hefty burger hits the spot – if that’s the case then you’ll want to head to Chuckling Wings. If you’re after something a little bit lighter, opt for an empanada from The Andes. Followed by an indulgent Bad Brownies offering, of course.

After you’ve filled up here you’ll want to take an Uber Boat to South Bank – get off at Bankside and head over to Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre for an afternoon of drama.

2pm – Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre

We challenge you to name a playwright more iconic than Mr William Shakespeare himself. 

Spend your final afternoon in London watching a matinee performance of a literary classic, with some of the most talented actors in the world bringing the likes of Macbeth and Hamlet to life.

You can find out what’s on and grab yourself tickets here .

6pm – Dinner and Drinks at Skylon

How does dinner with a view over the capital sound? Perched at the top of the Southbank Centre, Skylon offers just that. 

Modern European dishes are served in an art deco style setting, with huge windows the star of the show here. Though the food is just as impressive.

It’s a little bit expensive (i.e. nearing 20 quid for an – albeit delish – burger) but hey, it’s your last night – you deserve it. 

8pm – South Bank

Can you believe it’s the final evening? Take one last look at our beautiful city with an evening stroll across the water’s edge on the South Bank.

Should your feet take you to one of these brilliant pubs , then so be it. You might just find us at The Beer Hawk. Or you can hang out at Spiritland to listen to some late night tunes with an excellent cocktail in hand. 

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your 5 Days in London 

Grab a Pass From Go City

If you’re visiting London on a time limit, you’ll want to make sure you hit up all the best sights, squeeze in all the top experiences and get the most out of your trip.

The thing is… There’s so much to do in London it can be hard to get it right. 

That’s where Go City come in. They offer London Passes that mean you can bundle 2 – 7 London activities together, and they cover everything from London Zoo to zipping around the city on a guided bus tour.

Best of all, combining all your experiences into one bundle means savings. And not meagre ones either – we’re talking easily over £50. 

Of course, all that extra cash can then be funnelled straight into exploring London’s fantastic restaurants and traditional pubs…

Book Your Go City Explorer Pass Here

• If attempting the city alone seems too daunting, taking a tour is a great way to see all the hot spots with the help of a friendly guide. We recommend this classic bus tour , but we’ve compiled a complete guide to our favourite London walking tours here . 
• We’ve included our favourite hotels below, but it’s a good idea to have a general idea of your budget before you book – and stick to it. London can be really spenny, but there are many hotels that offer brilliant value for little money. We’ve covered where to stay in a little more detail below. 
• If you’re on a budget (or just love a bargain, like us), you’ll be glad to know that the vast majority of London museums are free to enter. You can visit all the biggies like The National History Museum and The V&A without spending a penny.
• Get to know the tube – whilst most of London is totally walkable, you’ll probably need to take the tube at some point. It’s worth saving an image on your phone/downloading google maps offline beforehand so you can figure out your route easily. 

Where to Stay for 5 Days in London? 

Whether you want to bed down in a cosy boutique offering or stay somewhere a little bit quirky , London has plenty of hotels to choose from. These are our favourites.

• High End: Not only is The Henrietta located right in Covent Garden, but the swanky decor and personal touches make it well-worth splurging on a room here during your stay. The Mondrian is a stylish offering with a rooftop pool and a delicious rooftop restaurant, and you can’t go wrong with the iconic Claridge’s for a blow-out trip. 
• Mid Range: K West Hotel & Spa offers wonderful value for money as well as a lovely spa that’s perfect for slinking around after a day of exploring (you can read our full review of the hotel here ), and the Good Hotel totally undersells itself – should be renamed the excellent hotel. The Pilgrm combines vintage design with modern touches, resulting in a hotel that’s as comfy as it is beautiful. 
• Budget: Safestay Holland Park is easily one of our favourite hostels in London – the rooms are clean and colourful, and the breakfast is top notch. Alternatively, Selina is an ultra-chic hotel that offers both private and shared dorm rooms and gives the more expensive options a serious run for their money.

There we have it: what to do in London for five days. The perfect itinerary for your trip in the capital, filled with the city’s top eats, fun things to see and do, and totally ‘grammable photo opportunities.

Five Days in London Itinerary: Map 

Looking for More London Itineraries and Guides?

• 2 Days in London Itinerary – The Insider’s Guide
• Sightseeing in London: 39 Top London Attractions and Tips for Exploring Them
• Best Places to Stay in London – The Insider’s Guide to Where to Stay on Your Trip

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Tired of the same old dull suggestions? Want to know where to find London’s secret bars, tastiest eats and weirdest finds? We provide practical guides that help you do just that.

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5 Day London Itinerary for First-Time Visitors 

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: June 17, 2024

The perfect example 5 day London itinerary for anyone visiting the city for the first time with all the major sites, landmarks and attractions plus practical tips to plan your perfect London visit.

So you’ve decided to go for a 5 day trip to London? Great choice! That amount of time allows you to get to know the UK capital pretty well.

This 5 day London itinerary for first time visitors suggests what you can see and do in such a time frame – though, of course, it’s only for guidance. What your 5 day London trip focuses on is of course a matter of personal preference.

That said, there are sights in London that few first-timers would want to miss. And if you do find you have some spare time at the end of your London trip itinerary, then you could always take one of the many day trips out of the city to visit some other places too.

There are many things to consider when planning your 5 day itinerary for London. You need to plan when to visit, work out how to get around the city, and of course book any accommodation or tickets you’ll need. 

Don’t stress, though! All the info you’ll need is covered in this complete 5 days in London itinerary. This site is also packed with other guides to sightseeing in and around London, so if the answer isn’t right here then we can certainly point you in the right direction. 

Whether you’re wondering what to do in London for 5 days or what our top London travel tips are, read on to find out. This guide was put together by a team of keen travellers who’ve lived and worked in the British capital, all of whom return to visit the city whenever they can. 

Let’s go to London!

London weather

Peak seasons, uk bank holidays, when to visit london, how long to spend in london, where to stay in london, getting around london, the london eye, the south bank, river thames cruise, south kensington museums, london markets, the changing of the guard.

• Afternoon tea

Tower of London

Tower bridge and the roman wall, westminster, your london, food in london, 5 day london itinerary – top tips, 5 day london itinerary – frequently asked questions, 5 day london itinerary – final thoughts.

OUR FAVOURITE LONDON TOURS & PASSES

• 🗝 TOWER OF LONDON – Ceremony of the Keys
• 🪄 HARRY POTTER STUDIOS – Making of Harry Potter Studio + HP walking tour of central London
• ⭐️ PRIVATE TOUR – Discover Real London black cab tour of London
• 🇬🇧 HOP ON HOP OFF BUS – City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
• 🥟 FOOD TOUR – Ultimate Food Tour of Borough Market
• 🎟 LONDON PASS – Unlock admission to 90+ attractions for one low price. Pass includes Tower Bridge, London Eye, Tower of London and Westminster Abbey. Use code UKTP5 at checkout for 5% discount off the cost of your pass. Buy here.
• 🎟 GO CITY EXPLORER PASS – Choose 2 to 7 attractions. Valid for 2 months after activation. Buy here .
• 🎟 BIG CITY SAVER – Includes family attractions such as Madame Tussauds & the London Eye. Buy here .

Planning your London trip

So when is the best time to go to London, what’s the weather like, when are there public holidays and how long do you need? Find out right here. 

Best time of year to visit London?

London is always busy during every season, whether it’s spring, summer, autumn or winter. The weather and tourist numbers do vary throughout the year though. 

London has four seasons. Spring runs from March to May, then the summer months of June, July and August are the warmest.

Yes, it can be cold and wet in the UK. Yet if there’s a heatwave in London, the heat can quickly become overbearing. Particularly on the Victorian London underground train network.

Winter is cold. January and February are the coldest months, closely followed by December. Spring and autumn are milder, when temperatures range between cool and warm. Autumn is darker than spring, so September, October and November can be more chilly, with shorter days. 

July and August usually have the hottest weather – and are the busiest months for tourism. London can also be packed during December, when people flock to the city to see the Christmas lights, shop at the markets and stores, and attend parties and events.

Public holidays are called ‘bank holidays’ in Britain, and London is also busy at these times. UK bank holidays occur at Christmas, New Year and Easter. There are also bank holidays in May and August. Here’s a list of the big dates to be aware of. 

• 25th December – Christmas Day
• 26th December – Boxing Day
• 1st January – New Year’s Day
• Good Friday – dates vary
• Easter Monday – dates vary
• Early May bank holiday – First Monday in May
• Spring bank holiday – Final Monday in May
• Summer bank holiday – Final Monday in August

Sometimes bank holiday dates vary, especially if an occasion involves the Royal Family. In 2022 the second May bank holiday was moved to June for the Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II, and there was an additional bank holiday in September of the same year for her funeral. 

If a bank holiday is on a Saturday or Sunday, then Brits get a public holiday on the next weekday in its place. Check all scheduled bank holiday dates at the UK government website here . 

If you want London to be a little quieter, then January to June or September to November are a bit less busy. But don’t pick the weekend of a bank holiday!

As for winter, well the British climate is pretty mild. Snow isn’t as common in London as movies and Christmas cards would have you believe. A White Christmas in London is rare. 

If you’re not good with the cold, it might be best to visit London during May, June or September. The weather in April and October can be a bit more extreme at times. 

You might even manage to pack more into your London itinerary for 5 days if visiting outside the peak tourist seasons. You may save some money on accommodation too, as hotels compete to fill their beds.

How long do you really need to see and do London? The answer, of course, depends on who you ask – and what you want to see and do. 

3 days in London is a good starting point, but 4 is better and 5 a further improvement. The more time you have the more you can see – and you can allow some time to unwind while you’re there too. Day trips from the city are also an attractive option.  

Our top tip is to stay as centrally as you can when you have just 5 days in London. Here are some helpful links when you’re seeking hotels in specific areas. Why not take a look so you can see what the options are? 

Westminster accommodation

⭐️ Top accommodation in Westminster

West End accommodation

⭐️ Covent Garden hotels in all price ranges

⭐️ Recommend Soho and Leicester Square hotels

⭐️ Great accommodation on the South Bank  

London is big, so it’s a good idea to think about getting around the city before you arrive! 

• Don’t rent a car

Don’t rent a car in London. Driving in London is stressful and slow, parking is impossible and the congestion charge makes it a very expensive way to travel too. 

• Use tubes, buses and trains

London has a fast, efficient and affordable public transport system. This includes buses and underground and overground trains. 

Avoid travelling during rush hour if you can. Sometimes you can’t even get onto the tube, let alone there being standing room only! These times to avoid are before 9 am and between 16.30 and 18.30 pm on weekdays. Off-peak tickets can also cost less. 

• Book accommodation in zone 1

Staying centrally will cut travel time and costs. So avoid any hotel that’s outside zone 1, unless you want to waste time and money. 

• Grab an Oyster Card (or go Contactless)

The Oyster Card is used by London residents and visitors alike. It’s used to pay for tube, train, bus, boat and tram trips. 

Using an Oyster Card is cheaper than buying tickets separately. As a tourist from abroad, you have the option of using a standard Oyster Card, a Visitor Oyster Card or simply using a contactless method of payment.

You can purchase a Visitor Oyster card (or regular Oyster Card) on arrival at Heathrow or if you prefer you can order it to be delivered to your home so you are set as soon as you arrive.

• Get a London Pass

The London Pass comes with a one-day hop-on, hop-off bus ticket plus entry to more than 90 top London attractions. London Pass holders can also get special discounts across the city at entertainment venues, eateries and more. 

• Bikes in London

Hire a Santander or ‘Boris’ bike. They’re all over the city. You can hire one by downloading the Santander Cycles app and following the instructions given. 

• Boats in London

The Thames Clippers UberBoat allows you to view the city from the water. You can pay for your boat trip by using an Oyster Card or contactless. 

• Taxis in London

We recommend taking a trip by black cab at least once if you can. It’s money well spent: London taxi drivers have passed ‘The Knowledge’ and know the quickest route to every single street in the capital.

If you see a black cab with its light on, stick out your arm. The driver will then pull over so you can get in. There are taxi ranks around the city too, at locations like train stations. 

London cab drivers are known for being talkative. Try asking which celebrities have been in their cab. Or if all else fails, you can always talk about the weather!

Feeling overwhelmed planning your London vacation?

We offer private consultations to answer your questions and help you to fine-tune your London (and UK) itinerary .

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5 day London itinerary

5 day london itinerary – day 1.

Now it’s time to move on to our suggested five days in London itinerary. The first day involves a ‘flight’ on the London Eye, exploring the South Bank area and taking a laid-back river cruise.

The London Eye is ideal for your first day in London. It gives you stunning views over the city – plus a reason to get out of bed and into Greenwich Mean Time (or British Summer Time) when you might be jet-lagged. 

Booking pre-paid tickets means you can skip the line, and taking your ‘flight’ in the morning means getting there before it’s too busy. Seeing the city spread out before you is the perfect introduction to London life. 

The London Eye: what to know

• How to get to the London Eye

Waterloo is the closest tube station to the London Eye. Closely followed by Westminster, Embankment and Charing Cross. If you’re staying near the river or in the West End, you might like to walk there. 

• A ‘flight’ on the London Eye

Your ‘flight’ on the London Eye lasts for half an hour, and at 135 metres tall this is the largest cantilevered observation wheel in the world. It’s also the UK’s leading paid-for attraction. 

Make sure your camera is fully charged, as you’ll enjoy sweeping views over the river and city skyline. Don’t forget to snap a selfie while you’re in there too. 

• London Eye tickets

Book a fast-track option through the site to save you some time. 

Click here to buy your London Eye tickets

POPULAR LONDON ATTRACTIONS – ADVANCE PURCHASE AND/OR FAST-TRACK TICKETS

🎡 London Eye – Ride with fantastic views over London. (Skip-the-line tickets available)

🏙 The Shard – The tallest building in the UK with commanding views over London.

⛪️ Westminster Abbey – Gothic abbey where coronations and royal weddings are held.

💎 Tower of London – Infamous prison and mighty fortress. The Crown Jewels are on display too.

⚔ Madame Tussauds – Get up close and personal with over 250 waxworks of famous people.

⛓ London Dungeon – Enjoy a recreation of some of London’s goriest and macabre historical events.

🐧 London Zoo – World’s oldest scientific zoo and a popular attraction for families.

👑 Hampton Court Palace – King Henry VIII’s favourite palace.

The South Bank lies close to the London Eye, south of the Thames. After disembarking, make sure the river’s on your left and you’ll hit the South Bank in no time. 

This area has plenty of shops, cafes and restaurants for all tastes and budgets. During late November and December there’s also a good Christmas market here.

Bankside is also home to Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, the Royal Festival Hall and the Tate Modern. Borough Market is just a short stroll away too, on Southwark Street which is close to London Bridge tube station.  

After doing the London Eye and South Bank in the morning, next on the itinerary for London in 5 days is a relaxing river cruise on the Thames . This isn’t too taxing for those who feel jet-lagged. 

You can book all sorts of Thames cruises, even by speedboat if you’re up for that. These may last for just half an hour, take 3 hours plus, or anything in-between. Evening cruises with drinks, dinner and music are also an option. 

You can also book a hop-on, hop-off cruise. Tickets for this work like jump-on jump-off bus tickets and last for 24 hours. 

5 day London itinerary – DAY 2

Your second day in London is one to spend at the capital’s impressive museums. Which interests you most is of course a personal preference, but if you don’t have anywhere definite in mind then we suggest South Kensington as it has three world-class options to explore. If you have time later on, we’d say it’s time to go to the market!

South Kensington is home to The Natural History Museum, the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Science Museum. They can all be found on Exhibition Road, near South Kensington tube station. 

The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) specialises in art, fashion and design, while the Natural History Museum houses flora and fauna specimens from all over the planet. The Science Museum is all about discovery. 

The beauty of coming here is that you can visit any or all of the three. Like all publicly owned museums in London, they’re all free to enter. 

There are some incredible London markets all over the city, and shopping at one definitely belongs on any London 5 days’ itinerary! Which to pick depends on your interests – and when they’re open, of course. 

Our favourites include Borough for food, Brick Lane and Old Spitalfields in East London, Camden or Portobello for an alternative vibe or vintage goods and Covent Garden for just about anything. You can also find bargains at Greenwich or Brixton markets in south London.  

5 day London itinerary – DAY 3

Royalty is a big part of London life and there is so much to see. For day 3, we suggest seeing the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace followed by a traditional afternoon tea.

If you have some spare time in between, you can explore an area like Covent Garden, Oxford Street, Piccadilly Circus or Green Park. The hotels we suggest are close to these locations, and The Goring is near Buckingham Palace.  

Only in the UK would the Changing of the Guard happen. This takes place several times per week at Buckingham Palace, so you’ll see King Charles III’s home too.

Unless the weather is extremely bad, the ceremony takes place at 11 am in front of Buckingham Palace.  If the Royal Standard of the United Kingdom is flying it means the King is currently staying there!

The Changing of the Guard: what to know

• When to see the Changing of the Guard

The Changing of the Guard doesn’t take place daily. It’s scheduled for every other weekday and Saturdays, at 11 am. 

Check here , on the official Household Division website, to make sure the ceremony is going ahead before leaving your hotel. 

• Getting to the Changing of the Guard

The closest tube stations are Green Park, St. James’s Park, Victoria and Hyde Park Corner. 

• Changing of the Guard times

We reckon you should arrive at least 20 – 25 minutes before the ceremony. Arriving sooner means a lot of standing around but you should get a good view. It is a popular event so expect it to be crowded especially during peak tourist seasons.

• Changing of the Guard tours

Unlike other attractions and activities on your London itinerary for 5 days, seeing the Changing of the Guard is free. There is the option, though, of booking a walking tour to help you get the best out of it. Your guide can even direct you to the best place to stand. 

Other tour options include attractions like the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London, or you can take a tour of the whole city. 

Click here to check out a Changing of the Guard walking tour with Take Walks

Book your slot at a leading London hotel for a sumptuous afternoon tea . After a walk around the nearby area is a good idea, as you’ll need a good appetite!

If you can, blow the budget on afternoon tea at a top London hotel. This way you can experience all the glamour of such a place without forking out for a room there. Everyone has their favourite, but these five are among the top spots. 

• The Langham

The Langham is said to have invented the afternoon tea. It takes place in the art deco style hotel within the Palm Court. The hotel is on Portland Place, near Oxford Street. 

The Goring is very close to Buckingham Palace on Beeston Place. Afternoon tea has been served here since 1840, and for the full-on experience you can add a glass of fine, French Bollinger champagne.

• Fortnum & Mason

A bonus of booking afternoon tea here is that you can visit the famous food hall too. The upmarket store is located between Green Park and Piccadilly Circus, and tea takes place in the Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon.

The Savoy is close to Covent Garden, theatreland and the river. The Thames Foyer with a grand piano at the centre is the afternoon tea venue here.

The Ritz on Piccadilly is also in the West End, and you could walk here from Buckingham Palace via Green Park. Afternoon tea is served here in the magnificent surroundings of the ballroom.

3 day London itinerary – DAY 4

Your penultimate day in London involves visiting the historic Tower of London. While you’re in this area you can also visit Tower Bridge and the Roman Wall if you’d like to. 

Doing the Tower of London on the last day is like saving the best until last. The reason we suggest doing it this way is because you don’t want to rush it. Why hurry when you can linger over the Beefeater guards in red costumes, the Crown Jewels and the ravens who are said to guard the tower?

During your visit you may also tour the Fusilier Museum, see Kings’ suits of armour, and discover buildings such as the Mediaeval Palace and the White and Bloody Towers.

The Tower of London: what to know

• How to get to the Tower of London

The nearest tube station is Tower Hill. You could also walk from Liverpool Street, Charing Cross or London Bridge stations in under half an hour. 

• Your Tower of London tour

Arrive at the Tower of London as early as you can to avoid the crowds. Sometimes the tower shuts as early as 4.30 pm, and if you get there with plenty of time to spare then you won’t need to rush.  

• Tower of London tickets

Buying tickets for the Tower of London in advance saves time. If you book via Get Your Guide (GYG) they’re the same price as on the Tower of London website, but you can get a full refund when cancelling up to 24 hours before. You can also skip the queue!

Entry to the Tower of London is also included in the London Pass .

Click here to buy your Tower of London tickets via GYG or for exclusive early access to the Crown Jewels we recommend this small group tour with Walks tours .

Not everyone knows that there’s a Roman Wall you can see in London, but it’s right there in the centre at Tower Bridge. In fact you can see sections of what once stretched across the city in other spots too, but it’s easiest to include it in a visit to Tower Bridge.

The bridge itself offers the opportunity of climbing the North Tower, heading across the high-level glass walkways, discovering more of London’s rich history and of course savouring magnificent city and river views.

It’s a must for history fans , as the Tower is grade I listed and dates back to the late 19th century. As for the Roman Wall, it goes back to an astonishing AD 200!

3 day London itinerary – DAY 5

Today you can visit Westminster, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, before having some free time to spend as you wish for your final afternoon. 

You will have seen Westminster from the London Eye and your Thames cruise on the first day of your 5 days itinerary in London, but now it’s time for a closer look. It’s up to you what you want to do in this area, as there are a few options. 

Take pictures of yourselves by a row of classic red telephone boxes , or book tickets in advance if you want to see inside Westminster Abbey. Getting up close to the Gothic architecture at the Houses of Parliament is quite something.

Big Ben is of course an iconic sight too. The name actually refers to the bell rather than the tower or clock. 

Click here to book Westminster Abbey tickets

If you end up with some free time today, think about how you want to spend your final half day in London.  

The possibilities are endless, but here are a few ideas!

• A hop-on, hop-off bus tour

If you’re not sure what you might have missed or simply want to go with the flow, why not book a jump-on, jump-off bus ticket for your final day? These allow you to travel all day long – or even for multiple days. 

This way you can relax while taking in the sights properly for one last time before leaving. If something catches your eye along the way, simply jump off and visit it before catching the next bus to explore more of the city. 

Click here to book hop-on, hop-off bus tickets

• Hyde Park, Harrods & Knightsbridge

If you love shopping, then you simply cannot miss upmarket Knightsbridge! The famous Harrods department store is here, and fashionable Harvey Nichols too. There are also plenty of designer stores such as Lulu Guinness, Lacoste, Ted Baker, Jimmy Choo and Burberry here. 

Hyde Park is at the top of Knightsbridge, and is a large, often peaceful place in which to picnic on goodies bought from the food hall at Harrods.  

• Take a sightseeing walking tour

A walking tour is an alternative way to see the city from ground level instead of up high. 

Many walking tours are available, and all are guided by local experts.There are both themed and sightseeing walking tours to take. 

There’s so much to see and do that it’s easy to spend a whole day in Greenwich . Or an afternoon, if that’s all you have to spare. A great market and a top pie and mash shop are just the start.  

Then there’s the Meridian Line, the O2, the Cutty Sark and the historic buildings. Plus there’s the lovely 74-hectare Greenwich Park. This is a lovely spot in which to enjoy your last day in London – and it has a more laid-back vibe than the centre of the city. 

• Get out of the city

If you want to escape the city after four-and-a-half days, you could take a tour instead. You might be surprised at what you can see in half a day – or a full day if you prefer. Sites like Stonehenge or Windsor Castle, for example, can be seen in half a day. 

Click here to take a look at day trips from London

Need to know when planning your 5 day London itinerary

The reputation of British food wasn’t the best in the past, but thankfully that’s all changed for the better now. Dining out truly is one of the highlights of spending time in London. You can try foods from all over the globe in the city, but here are some British dishes and traditions not to miss. 

• Fish and chips

Fish and chips is now enjoyed all over the world. In London, this is best eaten in a pub as beer battered fish with chips and mushy peas. Don’t forget to add some salt and vinegar.

• English breakfast

A full English breakfast is a great way to stay the day when you need plenty of energy for exploring the city. So pile your plate high with bacon, eggs, sausages, beans, mushrooms, tomatoes, toast and more. 

• Pie and mash

Pie and mash is a real London thing, especially in the east of the city. It’s a cheap, filling meal that can be found all over the place and in various forms.

• Sunday roast

Do sample a Sunday roast at a London pub if you’ll be in the capital over a weekend. Make sure you try Yorkshire pudding – a savoury batter that’s baked and traditionally served alongside roast beef. 

brave, some pie and mash shops also sell jellied eels, a true cockney classic.

Head to the Brick Lane area and pick out a restaurant you like the look of, or ask hotel staff which is their favourite. East London is one of the world’s culinary capitals when it comes to the food of the Indian subcontinent. 

Afternoon tea is a must when in London. This comprises finger sandwiches, pretty cakes and scones piled high with jam (jelly) and clotted cream. A top five star hotel is the best venue if your budget can accommodate that. Make sure you go when you’re hungry, and if you can’t finish it you can ask to take the rest away. 

The food halls at Harrods in Knightsbridge, Fortnum & Mason on Piccadilly, and Selfridges on Oxford Street are some of the finest you’ll find anywhere, with delicacies from all over the world sold. 

• Borough Market

Borough Market is the star of many TV shows and movies. It’s near London Bridge, south of the river Thames. On a fine day, pick up a picnic here to enjoy in one of London’s leafy parks.  

• Marks and Spencer sandwiches 

For a quick, affordable meal, pop into a branch of Marks and Spencer (M&S) for a sandwich. All sorts of fillings are available, and their food is a firm British favourite. 

Here are our insider tips for making the most of your trip to London. Don’t pack your bags until you’ve checked it out!

• Stay central

A super simple way to save loads of time is to pick London accommodation in a central spot. Take a look at a map to work out where you can walk to from your hotel, and make sure there’s a tube station close by!

If you walk or take short tube trips, you can save on travel, which can make up the difference in price for your accommodation. 

Our recommended areas to stay in include the West End which includes Covent Garden, Leicester Square and Soho. Another good choice is somewhere near Westminster, or just south of the river Thames in Waterloo or South Bank. 

• Don’t overload

You don’t have to tick every must-see in London in 5 days. Think about what really matters to you – and of course having some fun!

Save time by booking skip-the-line attraction tickets in advance – and let this London five day itinerary be your guide. Based on the suggestions given, what do you really want to see and do? Focus on what interests you most so you don’t miss out. 

• Plan in advance

You can save precious time and money by doing a little forward planning. Definitely buy entry tickets and travel passes early. Don’t worry that your plans might change. Using a supplier like Get Your Guide means you can often claim a full refund if cancelling 24 hours or more before. 

• Some things in London are free

London is known for being an expensive city – yet some of the capital’s sights are totally free. The city is packed with parks and museums that are free to enter, and you can stroll by the Thames without spending a single penny. 

People watching is also free of charge – though you might like to buy a coffee to enjoy as you watch the world go by on Bond Street, in theatreland or in a classic city square.

• Pack a rain jacket and/or an umbrella 

Rain happens in London. A lot, sometimes. So definitely make room in your daypack for a hooded packable jacket and/or a small umbrella. 

• Bring good footwear

Comfortable shoes surely make any day more enjoyable. Leave any high heels for a night out when you’ll take a taxi, or dinner in the hotel.

You’ll do so much standing and walking, and even jumping on and off buses and tubes isn’t easy in unsuitable footwear. 

• Consider geography

Visiting a group of neighbouring attractions in one day makes total sense – and can even cut down on tube fares. Clearly it saves time too. 

For example, visit Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden, Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus at the same time, as they’re clustered fairly close to one another. If you’re planning a trip to the theatre, this can also be found near these London hotspots. 

• See the city from above the ground

The tube is often the best way to get around London, but try to walk, use a cab or catch a bus when you can. It’s a great way to see more of the city while on the move.

• Is 5 days enough in London?

First-timers visiting London should spend around five days or more in the capital if they can. This allows you to do enough sightseeing while getting a real feel for the city and its people. Stay centrally and plan carefully, and you could do so much with a five day stay in London!

• How can I cover London in 5 days?

What belongs on your London 5 day itinerary really depends on what you want to see and do. Popular places to visit in that time scale include the Tower of London, the South Bank, the London Eye, Buckingham Palace, Westminster, the museums, the markets and much more. 

• How do I plan an itinerary for London?

We suggest a set of simple steps when planning which places to visit in London in 5 days. First, decide when to visit, then book central accommodation. Next, plan your itinerary and how to get around, and think about where you might want to eat. The final step is to consider whether you want to take any day trips from London. 

• What can you not miss in London?

Whether you’re trying to see London in 5 days – or less or more – sights not to be missed include the South Bank, the London Eye, Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, Westminster, markets, museums and more.

You could also include sites such as Hyde Park and Knightsbridge, Greenwich and Tower Bridge with its section of Roman Wall. 

If you’ve been wondering how to spend 5 days in London, we hope this suggested itinerary has been helpful! It is difficult working out what to visit in London in 5 days, so we hope this guide has helped you do some forward planning.

No, five days in London will never be enough. But then some say a lifetime isn’t long enough to truly discover the UK capital! The good news is that it is possible to visit London in 5 days – and to come away with a strong sense of what the city is all about.

Don’t forget that this itinerary is only a guide to what to see in London in 5 days. Not everything is open daily, and the weather may play a part in your plans.

The most important point, though, is that it’s your 5 day itinerary for London. No one else’s. What you see and do is up to you – and above all make sure you prioritise enjoying your stay in this incredible destination! 

Only have one or two days in London? No problem! Check out our 1 day London itinerary and our 2 days in London itinerary and even our 3 day London itinerary !

Plan your trip to London

• London Travel Resources
• How much to budget for your trip
• London itinerary planner for museum lovers
• London itinerary planner for history lovers
• How far ahead do you need to book for London

London Travel Guide & Itinerary Planner Ebook (+ 4 BONUS ebooks)

Unique outdoor travel experiences for families.

5-Day Itinerary for London: A First-Timer’s Essential Guide

If you’re planning a first trip to London, this 5-day itinerary for London will help make the most of your time. From iconic landmarks to cultural experiences, and all the best stay and dining experiences, this itinerary covers it all to create an unforgettable trip. Let’s dive into the details day-by-day to help you plan a great trip to London. If you’re traveling with kids we’ll give you all the best attractions, free things to do, and the best playgrounds in London.

Some attractions will require advance tickets or reservations, which will be noted. There are also attractions only open on certain days of the week so pay close attention to this as you might need to switch the order around to accommodate. We hope this 5-day itinerary for London gives you everything you need to plan an amazing trip.

Disclosure: when you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you. We only recommend products we would use ourselves and all opinions expressed here are our own. Read more about our privacy policy.

How to spend 5 days in London? Let’s go!

Table of Contents

Day 1 in London

For arrival transportation, stay ideas and luggage storage options see the FAQ section at the end.

On this first day in London consider there could be flight delays so keep things flexible when planning. If you’ll be battling jet lag try to plan an activity that’s engaging to keep everyone awake but that is not overly strenuous or expensive in case plans need to change. 

Hop-on-hop-off buses in London

Explore London aboard an iconic red double-decker hop-on-hop-off bus that hits all the major sights. Most buses have covered and uncovered spaces that are flexible with weather changes. London has particularly great tours that can help provide a good overview of the city early in your visit. Book in advance or wait until the day of at the first stop. There are many options available so advance booking is not required for this one.

City Sightseeing offers a comprehensive tour of the city’s landmarks and note the free cancellation is before 24 hours so would not help on the day of. Big Bus Tours offers various tour options including a river cruise add-on and night tour options. Save by booking online. *Note we first booked with Toot Buses but they came so infrequently we switched to City Sightseeing and had no problem.

The bus gives you a taste of all the major sights in central London such as Trafalgar Square, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Tower Bridge, Tower of London, Houses of Parliament, Jubilee Garden, Buckingham Palace, Downing Street, Borough Market, Graffiti Tunnel, and more. 

If you’re trying to keep everyone awake, getting off the bus near these fun stops will ensure a home run for day one. Check out the Jubilee Gardens playground and London Eye which provide a great glimpse of what London has to offer. The Graffiti Tunnel is also a fun stop for day one. Unless you’re tight on time save the tours and longer visits for other days.  

Other options for the first day in London

• Enjoy a culinary excursion in Chinatown for lunch or dinner. 
• Immerse yourself in the wonders of science at the Science Museum (free)
• Delve into the history of transportation at the London Transport Museum (kids under 17 are free not adults)

Conclude your day by checking into your accommodation, whether it’s a hotel or an Airbnb, and settle in for the adventure ahead. Jump to our accommodation ideas here.

“Sure, London can be exhausting. It constantly badgers you to keep up, teasing you with the constant gamble of what to do, and what to miss. But that’s what I love most about London – you can never get bored.” – Olivia Pass

Day 2 in London

Day two is filled with great culture and art while sightseeing along the River Thames in the Bankside Cultural Quarter. The Globe Theatre can be found at the tube stop, London Bridge on the Northern line (9-minute walk) or Blackfriars on the District and Circle Lines (10-minute walk).

Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre

This theatre was originally built in 1599 with a unique open-air stage that was the primary venue for Shakespeare’s plays. They offer guided tours that are great for families but you must book in advance as they do sell out. If you’re lucky enough to catch a performance they offer them spring-fall. A reminder that the theatre is open air so dress for all weather as tours and events go on in all conditions just like in Shakespearean times. Learn more and reserve here.

After the tour take the 5-minute walk along the River Thames catching views of the Millennium Bridge. Since the Tate Modern is free and doesn’t require reservations fit this in around the Globe which is trickier to schedule.

Tate Modern Museum

This is an incredible modern art museum (did I mention it’s free!) with great programming for families with children. They frequently have different events and activities for kids and a Play Studio space for families to make art together. Learn more

Lunch or Dinner Options Nearby

Borough Market is a local market with great street food options and so much to explore. Closed Sundays and Mondays. Catch a Borough Market food tour through Viator .

‘O ver Restaurant in Saxon House serves the best wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, and salads.

Burger and Beyond Borough Yards creatively done burgers and sides.

Catch an afternoon spritz or an evening drink at the London Bridge Rooftop Bar which comes with amazing views.

Other stops in this area if you have more time

• Take the Millennium Bridge across the River Thames to see St Paul’s Cathedral on the north bank.
• Thames River Cruise – see the city from the best view possible on a Thames River Cruise.
• The Shard is a pyramid-shaped 72-story skyscraper with a viewing platform and fun afternoon tea sessions. Both require advance tickets (1-2 weeks out) and can be spendy. We do recommend the Sky Garden (free tickets) later in the itinerary but include the Shard as another option that’s nearby.
• Mint Street Adventure Playground – a small neighborhood playground that’s fun for a break in the action.

Day 3 in London

Day three invites you to explore London’s regal heritage. Begin your day with a visit to Buckingham Palace, witnessing the grandeur of the monarchy. Start at the Westminister Tube stop. Walk through St James Park to The Mall (15min walk)

Changing of the Guards at Buckingham Palace

Experience the Changing of the Guards at Buckingham Palace every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. This is free of charge and no tickets are needed but it can be crowded so arriving early is a good idea.

The Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place between St. James’s Palace and Buckingham Palace. The ceremony begins at 10:30 am at the Friary Court, St James’s Palace (Marlborough Road). Recommend taking a peek through the gates of them lining up as you walk by en route to Buckingham Palace but if you wait for this you miss a good spot for the main event. At 10:45 am the procession enters The Mall and walks toward Buckingham Palace and it’s best to beat the crowds following them. Then at 11 am the official Changing of the Guard ceremony begins at the Buckingham Palace gates and takes just under an hour.

We arrived at Buckingham Palace gates by 10 am to find the best viewing spot. This was perfect to be able to take photos and find a good viewing spot. Note: it gets very crowded and can be difficult to stick together with a group, so have a plan and limit bulky backpacks or strollers.

The entire ceremony path and best viewing spots are on the website with maps. Check the schedule as things frequently change.

Buckingham Palace indoor tours are limited to when the King is not there and dates can change but previously were July-September. In addition, there are some family-guided tours as well as other theme-specific tours that happen throughout the year.

Changing of the Guards tours 

St james park.

If you’re with kids or just want a nice place to relax check out the St. James playground and gardens on the way back. It’s a wonderful garden to explore and for kids to play. Walk back down Birdcage Way to get lunch at the Cellarium Cafe in Westminister Abbey or somewhere nearby.

Lunch nearby

Enjoy lunch at the Cellarium Cafe in Westminster Abbey before a tour. It has simple modern fare with beautiful architecture and cloistered ceilings of the Abbey. Reservations weren’t needed when we visited in March but may be in the summer months or holidays.

Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is the royal church of London and is a World Heritage Site with over a thousand years of history. There have been many royal weddings and coronations and more than 3,000 people are buried in Westminster Abbey. It is an incredible place of history and beauty and our kids loved this stop more than I thought they would.

The Abbey is busier during the months of May-September, Easter, and Christmas/New Years time periods when advance online tickets are needed but otherwise purchasing tickets onsite is possible. We always recommend purchasing tickets online in advance to avoid waiting in line. The Abbey is not open for tours on Sundays only services. 

Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries are a worthwhile add-on for £5 to gain access to the beautiful 13th-century triforium space which includes views of the Nave and the Abbey floors. The audio guide is included with the entrance price and is very good. 

When walking Westminster Bridge along Great George Street/A302 there will be several red phone booths where you can photograph the phone booth with Big Ben in the background.

Additional things to do nearby with more time

The Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace is a great way to see the historic royal carriages and working stables. Learn more

Big Ben – recently reopened up for tours so it’s been popular but you have to be up for a workout to climb the 334 spiral staircase steps to see the clock face that is known as Big Ben, the tower itself is the Elizabeth Tower. Advance tickets are required and often sell out three months in advance. Tickets are released on the second Wednesday of every month at 10 am local time. Visitors must be 11 years or older.

Visit the Houses of Parliament, including Westminster Hall, the Central Lobby, and the House of Commons Chamber.

Churchill War Rooms – secret underground headquarters where Churchill lived and worked during WWII.

See 10 Downing Street, the official home of the British Prime Minister.

Walk across the Westminster Bridge and ride the London Eye. 

Using TKTS allows discounted same-day theatre tickets for London’s West End shows. The TKTS booth is in the heart of Leicester Square open seven days a week (check times) as well as online. Seeing a show in London is not to be missed!

Day 4 in London

On day four discover the storied halls of the Tower of London, unlocking secrets from centuries past including the Crown Jewels. Catch the best views of London and dine along the Thames.

Tower of London

The Tower of London is a historic castle on the north bank of the River Thames in central London. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the top attractions in London.

Advance tickets are needed (1+ months in advance is best) and you can buy them directly. We recommend scheduling for first thing in the morning for fewer crowds. Make sure to add the audio guide when booking as this gives you access to five different tours including the popular Yeoman Warder tour. The Yeoman Warder who lives onsite will share what it’s really like to live inside a Royal Fortress. 

When you enter the castle head straight to see the Crown Jewels first to save on the lines that will soon follow. Then go back and catch the next Yeoman Warder tour. These tours are mostly outdoors so dress accordingly.

Learn more and reserve tickets

If you prefer to visit in the evening consider trying for the hard-to-get tickets for the 700-year-old ancient Ceremony of the Keys.

Lunch Nearby

Coppa Club Tower Bridge is a great restaurant within a 2-minute walk of Tower London. Situated along the River Thames Coppa Club offers modern European fare in beautifully designed igloos or indoor seating. Reservations are recommended. An easy 10-minute walk from lunch to Sky Garden.

London’s highest public garden sits atop a skyscraper with 360-degree panoramic views of the skyline. There are restaurants and bars to relax and take in the amazing indoor and outdoor terrace views of the city. Tickets are required, although free, they open for weekly availability three weeks prior (often Mondays between 9-10am local time) and go quickly. Visitors need to bring ID along with mobile tickets and there is a security bag check and no beverages allowed up.

Additional things to do nearby

• Tower Bridge – Discover the high-level glass walkways with unforgettable views from the Tower Bridge. To get tickets and find timing for the bridge lift times check here.
• Horrible Histories Boat Tour is a fun way to learn about history while taking in the views on the Thames.
• Leadenhall Market is a Victorian indoor marketplace with apparel, gifts, and restaurants.

Day 5 London

This last full day includes some arts and outdoor time before a travel day, all while seeing any last stops you didn’t get to yet. Today starts at Kensington Palace and then heads to explore everything that the West End district has to offer.

Kensington Palace and Diana’s Playground

Venture to Kensington Palace to get in a morning walk and explore the gardens. There are also tours offered to see inside this royal residence. Find a pavilion near the gardens that offers food and traditional tea. Continue your way to Diana’s Playground, a great outdoor space for kids to play, and don’t miss Hyde Park nearby as well.

Explore Covent Garden and Neal’s Yard

Next, check out the lively Covent Garden shopping and entertainment area in London’s West End. The historic market building and surrounding streets are known for some of London’s best outdoor dining and pop-up experiences. There are often street performers on the pedestrian piazza near the 17th-century St Paul’s Church entrance. Explore the colorful alleyways of Neal’s Yard , there are great places for lunch or a relaxing cafe visit.

Near Covent Garden on Google Maps as “Diana “Mary Poppins ” by bambi”

Today is a great option if you haven’t already taken in a show in this famed West End theatre district.

Other stops nearby if you have more time:

• Transportation Museum 
• The Royal Opera House
• The British Museum

What to do in London with more time

As you can see there is so much to do in London. If you have more than five days for your London itinerary, below are additional ideas. 

• Windsor Castle which is only open every Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday 
• The Stonehenge Circle tour experience requires a very early start and due to limited reservations, tickets go quickly. 
• Catch an Arsenal F.C. game
• Harry Potter studio tour
• TKTS get discounted tickets to a show in the West End. Catch Back to the Future, Matilda, Six the Musical, and so many more. The smaller intimate theatres were great with kids and the discounted tickets allowed for greater access to great theater.

Free things to do in London for Families

While London and any major city can be quite expensive, there are so many great things to do in the city that are free. The city of London has an amazing amount of museums and activities that are free to visit. This can be an incredible savings for families with kids looking for free things to do in the city.

9 ¾ platform in Kings Cross Station – for any Harry Potter fans, Kings Cross train station is where the Hogwarts Express begins. Get photos taken near the iconic luggage trolley disappearing into the wall. There are professional photographers with props, but they also allow you to take your own photos. The line for photos here can take time so we recommend doing this stop not on a travel day. The Harry Potter shop is also in this station.

Young V&A   is part of a collection of creative museums across London that spark creativity, learning, and imagination. including the Admission is free. 

Tate Modern is an amazing modern art museum that is free and open to all. It offers interactive activities and spaces for families. Tate Kids is an online experience where kids can learn about art, play games, and take quizzes.

National History Museum Some family favorites in this museum are the beloved Dippy the Diplodocus dinosaur, whales, and volcanoes but there is so much to see. The space itself is incredible, make sure to look up! Free admission but reserve your visit time online.

Science Museum This incredible museum offers seven floors of science and educational fun. Free⁠ but pre-booked tickets are required.

The Wallace Collection is free and offers monthly Hands-On Armour sessions where families can see and touch the real armour. They also have creative workshops, storytelling, and a swordplay cupboard.

Harry Potter London Tours

Unique things to do in london.

If you’re looking for other unique things to do in London check out some of these ideas.

• Sherlock Holmes Museum
• House of Dreams Museum
• Catch one of these fun, themed afternoon teas Peter Pan tea at the Shard – a creatively done afternoon tea inspired by a Peter Pan theme. Sketch London does afternoon tea right in a pink explosion Art Deco dining room.
• The Thames Rocket speedboat experience from the London Eye and Tower Bridge.
• Herd of Hope is a family of 20+ life-sized bronze elephants which each represent a different orphaned elephant story. The sculptures move to different locations across London and aim to raise awareness of the mistreatment of elephants thanks to the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.

The Best Playgrounds in London for kids

We love finding cool and unique playgrounds when we travel. It’s also a great way to meet locals or other families traveling with kids. Here are some great playgrounds in London to check out during a visit.

• St. James Park Playground
• Diana Memorial Playground
• Holland Park Adventure (close to Diana’s Park)
• Kilburn Grange Adventure Park
• Prospect Park at Battersea Power Station 
• Jubilee Park
• Wembley Park Play Park (covered)
• Finsbury Park Playground
• Gloucester Gate, Regent’s Park If Paris is part of your larger itinerary check out the best playgrounds in Paris.

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Frequently Asked Questions on Planning a 5-day Itinerary for London

What are the best stay options for families in london.

London hotels are known for being small and strict on the number of guests and this can make traveling with kids or a large family challenging.

We loved this AirB&B in Little Venice . Centrally located in the beautiful Little Venice area a 7-minute walk to Paddington Station. Great restaurants, shops, and canals are all within walking distance. Note: the link may not work if they’re not currently accepting new bookings.

Family/Suite Options in London

Doubletree By Hilton Lo ndon Kensington – has larger rooms and a great central London location.

Jubilee Hotel Victoria – budget family room options within walking of Buckingham Palace

Park Plaza Westminster Bridge – very walkable near the London Eye with family room options.

The Langham is an iconic luxury hotel in London. Five stars in the heart of the West End with family room options.

Luxury Hotels…because it’s London!

Radisson Blu Mercer Street this luxury hotel is close to Covenant Garden and within a 10-minute walk to Trafalgar Square.

St. Ermin’s is a luxury hotel tucked in a quiet neighborhood near Buckingham Palace but walkable to main attractions within central London.

Ruby Zoe Hotel – referred to as “lean luxury” with a design focus but many self-service offerings. A bit outside central London near Notting Hill Gate station but easy access on the Tube. Smaller rooms.

Where to eat in London?

Café in the Crypt A coffee shop and cafe in the crypt under St. Martin’s in the Fields near the edge of Trafalgar Square.

Dishoom – is a popular Indian food restaurant and they have various locations throughout London.

BrewDog Waterloo – pub food within a microbrewery, live music, outdoor seating, duckpin bowling, an ice cream truck, and did I mention there’s a slide?

How many days should I spend in London?

With five days in London you can see so much of what it has to offer. Catch all the best attractions from the Changing of the Guards, Westminster Abbey to the London Eye, and theatre in the West End. Try to plan travel days on either end so you have five full days in London. If you have seven to ten days there is always something more to do in London.

How do I get from Heathrow Airport to central London?

There are a few options but the Heathrow Express is our preferred option.

Take the Heathrow Express for an easy 15-minute journey to London. Purchase tickets at the train station for convenience. Non-stop trains run every 15 minutes from all terminals to Paddington station, where you can transfer to the London Underground or the Elizabeth Line. ~£15 Children 15 years and under travel free when accompanied by a paying adult.

London Underground ( ‘the Tube’) will take you from Heathrow to central London in under an hour. Trains run every 10 minutes and the cost is ~£6 and children under 11 years old are free. The easiest way to pay is using a contactless “tap” credit card or Oyster card but you can also buy single tickets at the station.

Elizabeth Line is London’s newest rail line. Heathrow to central London in under 45 minutes, with trains every 30 minutes and the cost is ~£13, and children under 11 years old are free. The easiest way to pay is using a contactless “tap” credit card or Oyster card but you can also buy single tickets at the station.

Welcome Pickups A personalized car transfer service with great customer service and reviews. This is a nice option if traveling with large luggage or kids after an international flight. They help with luggage and can coordinate based on your needs. We’ve used them in the past and have been very happy with the level of service. Book your Lon don Airport Transfer

What is the easiest way to handle public transportation with kids in London?

The public transportation is very good in London and kids under 11 years of age ride for free with paying adults see details here . The easiest way for adults and those over 11 years to pay is using a contactless “tap” credit card or Apple Pay setup on a watch or phone. You need a separate card or device (even if it’s tied to the same account that’s ok) per person as you tap in and out. Children traveling for free do not require tickets and station staff will let them through the wider luggage gates. The accompanying adult will use the ticket gates as normal. More info on rail travel with kids in London.

Where can I store luggage in London?

Left Luggage offers bag storage in Paddington Station but there are others like Bounce, Transfer Bags, and Stasher.

Is the London Pass worth it?

The answer is different depending on your itinerary. If you follow this itinerary exactly I’ll share we did not get the London Pass for our family of five. Build your itinerary and then compare entry costs for the things you’re interested instead in doing. It can also lead to packing in too many activities into fewer days to make it worthwhile. 

What are the best apps to download for a trip to London?

Google Maps, Tube Map, TfL Go, Gett (black taxis), The Fork, Visit London, Welcome Pickups (if airport transfers are needed), Rick Steve’s Audio Europe (great audio guides).

Reminder: setup Apple Pay if you don’t have a contactless credit card as it will make tapping in/out for the Tube easier and most establishments use contactless payment.

Lastly, we hope this 5-Day Itinerary for London helps you plan an amazing trip. Perfect for first-timers, it balances must-see attractions with local experiences for an unforgettable London adventure. Share with us what your favorite things to do in London! Follow us on Instagram and check out our saved story highlight for this trip to London.

If Paris is also in your plans check out the best playgrounds in Paris with travel tips. Check out our guide on How to Plan Budget Family Travel without Sacrifices .

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One Comment

London and England are awesome for family travel. I’m a librarian, mom, and former educator and I love to find children’s books to read before traveling. Here are some of my favorites featuring England and London: http://storybooklists.com/country/storybooks-with-england

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5 Days in London: The Ultimate Itinerary (From A Local)

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‘Ello mate, and welcome to the Big Smoke. In this five day itinerary for visiting London, we’ll certainly show you the iconic sights. Big Ben. Buckingham Palace. Tower Bridge. But the city is so much more than just those old buildings. So have a gander (a look) at our guide, and see what else it has to offer!

As a base for starting our London holiday plan, we chose the historic areas of Wapping and Whitechapel in the East of the city centre. Because, frankly, staying right in the middle of town is very expensive.

Wapping is a quiet former docking district on the banks of the Thames. It has a lovely tight-knit village feel for how close it is to the centre of London. You’ll find winding brick lanes, local cafes, and small parks everywhere.

Although it’s worth it, Wapping is still not a cheap area and there’s not too many hotels. So, Whitechapel (just 10 minutes to the north) is another option. This super historic district is not quite as picturesque as Wapping, but it’s still got a lot of charm. And more hotel choices!

Wherever you stay while visiting London for five days, the city has excellent public transport. So nothing in our guide should be too far to get to.

Table of Contents

Go for a stroll, morning: tower of london, tower bridge & terry’s caf, a cool afternoon on the south bank, and the leake street graffiti tunnel, go up a skyscraper and visit borough market, tour a city in an afternoon, spend an evening overlooking st pauls, or onto a hip night out, a morning boat trip to westminster, palace parks and royal pub haunt, a rainy night in soho – historic shopping streets and classic jazz, check out some museums:, an afternoon in countercultural camden, an evening’s fine dining in belgravia, a typical english breakfast, see some live sport in the afternoon, skyline views and healthy foods.

Start your first day in London with a riverside stroll heading West down the picturesque Wapping High Street, where there’s plenty of places to grab a British tea to go. Londoners genuinely love coffee just as much as tea nowadays. But you’ll still find the traditional British caffeine option at every coffee shop on these narrow streets.

If you can, we suggest saving yourself for a late but big breakfast after the walk. Just you wait! Anyway, the Western end of Wapping High Street comes out by your first big London landmark of many – the Tower of London. You could also start your day here if you chose to stay elsewhere in the city.

The Tower of London was built in 1078 by William the Conqueror. The inner tower, the main one everyone recognises, has barely changed since. In over 1000 years!

It’s variously been used as prison, a storage spot for the Crown Jewels, and a Royal Residence. You can tour The Tower if you like. It’s open from 9am to 3.30 pm every day. Your tour will be conducted by a Yeoman, or Tower Guard, in full uniform.

If you do take a Tower tour, there’s a whole row of cafes and restaurants along the river, to the West, for afterwards.

If you don’t do the tour this morning, we suggest a lovely stroll across nearby Tower Bridge (you can’t miss it) and into Southwark. Tower Bridge, despite its iconic gothic look, is nowhere near as old at the Tower of London. The Bridge was built some 800 years later in 1886.

Once in Southwark, head to Terry’s Café on Great Southwark Street. It’s one the best examples of a traditional Full English Breakfast in the city.

A full English is a big, satisfyingly greasy plate full of fried foods. Be warned! If you’re not that hungry, try a traditional Tea and Two Slices. Two slices of dripping buttery toast and a mug of golden tea. Classic!

The South Bank area is an artsy district with river views. You can’t miss the famous Tate Modern art gallery with its massive former industrial cooling towers. Right by that, literally underneath Waterloo Bridge, is a massive open-air book market. Plus, here you’ll find the British Film Institute, The National Theatre and the famous London Eye!

There’s also loads of street performers, and a super cool skating spot. People have been hanging out skating (and graffitiing) in the Undercroft area of the South Bank Centre since the 2000s.

From there, let’s end our first evening out in London with some food and a drink. Continuing the arty theme, we suggest heading to Leake Street Graffiti tunnel.

This train tunnel under Waterloo station is packed with hip bars and restaurants, serving international cuisines. Plus it’s also an urban art spot, with legal graffiti plastered up and down the tunnel.

No worries if that sounds too intense. The Waterloo area has loads of typically cosy London pubs too. Try a sit-down fish and chip dinner and pint of local ale for a traditional choice. And one that can be surprisingly cheap in a pub. Things can get loud after 9pm on the weekends though!

For our second day we suggest starting out in the London Bridge area. You can hop on a tube or bus or walk along the river from Wapping (or wherever you’re staying).

London Bridge itself is not that impressive. Definitely not as nice as Tower Bridge you saw yesterday! But, in the modern day it has been overshadowed, literally, by the Shard. You can’t really miss The Shard, seeing as it’s Europe’s tallest building. It towers directly above the shiny new London Bridge station.

Why not head up there for a breathtaking view to start your day? The Shard viewing deck is on the 79th floor and is open to the public from 10 am on weekends and 11 am on Thursday and Friday. It’s closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

After that, Borough Market is a great place to grab some breakfast. London is hugely multicultural city today, and there’s amazing street food from all over the world to be found here. All in a Victorian building, with the market’s history going back to the 1200s!

Try Maria’s Market Café (opened 1961) for another full English and mug of tea. Or, try one of their more upmarket Breakfast sandwiches with British ingredients.

After breakfast or brunch, lets head North. To the City of London proper! Many people get this confused, and understandably, but the City of London is actually a specific mile or two square area around St Paul’s Cathedral. The main tube station for the area is Bank.

You can also take a short 10 or 20-minute walk here across London Bridge, if you had breakfast at Borough Market. Once in the area, take a leisurely afternoon between the main attractions among historic streets.

This part of town can get quite confusing – but in a good way. There are loads of tiny one-way alleys by old churches, overhead walkways, and courtyards to explore.

Be sure to check out Monument, a *monumental* column built to honor the victims of the Great Fire of London way back in 1666. You can buy a ticket to climb inside it up to the viewing gallery. It’s open on weekends, from 9.30 am until 6pm.

From there you can see the fantastic dome of St Paul’s Cathedral, your next stop, and then the financial district with the Bank of England. Both of which are not far away.

Once evening time settles in, try the Roof Terrace by St Paul’s for a brilliant free view of the sunset and the Cathedral Dome. There’s even a rooftop bar to have a chill drink before heading home to the hotel. Of course, Londoners love a party too – so you could head out further North for the night.

If it’s a weekend night, and you like to dance, we had to mention Fabric. This former meat-packing warehouse is a party like no other in London. Fabric is open from 10 until 5 or 6 am on weekends with revellers cutting shapes to the latest sounds. It does get busy though, so consider buying a ticket beforehand.

If all-night dancing isn’t your thing but you still want some London nightlife, try Shoreditch. This somewhat-gentrified area is just to the North of the City of London. Interesting bars, clubs and street food vendors here are open from the evening until late on every night.

Poetry slams. Live bands. Food markets made from old containers at Box Park. You could even up your hipster cred by sipping a pint in Vice Magazine’s very own pub, The Old Blue Last.

Whatever time you’re out until, if you get hungry – visit Beigel Bake on Brick Lane. An iconic London spot, they’re open 24 hours and they serve heavenly Jewish style bagels with all kinds of fillings. And only five minutes’ walk from Shoreditch High Street station.

When you take a five-day visit to London, you might think you’ve seen a lot of sights in two days. But there’s always more on the itinerary!

Today we’ll start out by heading to famous Westminster. And who could have guessed, it’s slightly to the west of the city centre. You could take the tube, or an iconic red bus (Route 100 to St Pauls and then a number 11).

But for a casual morning trip you won’t forget in a hurry, we recommend taking a TFL Uber Boat. These water taxis run up and down the Thames, starting from 8.30 am to pm each day.

You can hop on one every half an hour from Tower Bridge, all the way down to Westminster.

This is where you’ll see the iconic London landmark everyone knows – Big Ben’s Tower and the Houses of Parliament. Or maybe you think of Buckingham Palace, but we’ll get to that.

Anyway, hop off the bus, tube or boat at Westminster, and you can stroll right on by the glorious old Palace of Westminster. From there, you can take a quick detour to look at the nearby Westminster Abbey, which is an imperious and majestic sight to behold for sure.

If you do take a detour, try Victoria Tower Gardens for a quick sit down on the grass (if the weather’s nice). This quaint little park is tucked quietly away from the main parliament square, on the riverbank. It has great views of the south tower and can often be surprisingly empty!

Either way, next on the list is to continue down the wonderfully named Birdcage Walk from Westminster Bridge. Which, will take you all the way to one of the most famous royal residences in the world – Buckingham Palace.

The Palace, as locals say or Buckingham Palace, was first built in the 1700s, for a private owner. King George III bought it from the Duke of Buckinghamshire in 1761, and it remains the main royal house in London to this day. Try and catch the ceremonial Changing of the Guard at 11 am for bonus tourist points!

This part of town gets very busy so be warned. Nearby St. James’ Park always has some more secluded parts, if the crowds become too much.

After being a real tourist for a bit around the Palace, it’s probably time for a sit down and a pint eh?

Head up Grosvenor Place towards Hyde Park Corner and take a left by the imposing duke of Wellington Arch and you’ll be in the beautiful Belgravia district. This area has loads of super posh squares to stroll through, with amazing houses hosting foreign embassies. And some very nice pubs to boot!

Chief among them is The Grenadier. This unassuming red-doored pub is on a quiet one-way street just behind Luxembourg’s Embassy. But don’t let that fool you – they’ve been a busy spot for locals for hundreds of years.

Rumour has it that when Prince Harry and William were younger, they used to pop in here for a drink! It’s also one of London’s most haunted pubs too with a ghost of a card-playing soldier supposedly haunting its upstairs rooms.

(Check out this guide for just a few more of London’s legion of unusual attractions !)

The famous Oxford Street and Regent Street might have all the biggest and fanciest shops. But London’s coolest shopping area is no doubt Soho, and Carnaby Street. Well known as an area of *ahem* countercultural activities from the 60s onwards, Soho today is a warren of narrow cobbled streets with cool vintage clothing boutiques, hyped fashion stores like Supreme or Palace, unique bars and – yes – risqué shops aplenty. Lovely!

Plus, if the shopping here isn’t enough for you? The bright lights of Regent and Oxford street are very close by too. There they have all the main stores you’d expect from an international city like London. That includes luxury goods retailers, tech stores and much more.

Once you’ve shopped out for a few hours, you could probably do with some food. One of the best places to eat in Soho is British racing driver Lewis Hamilton’s award-winning vegan burger chain, Neat Burger. They opened their first location here in 2019.

After your meal, Soho is also great place to grab a few drinks before heading out or back to your accommodation. As well as lots of bars for both gay and straight patrons, there’s the world famous and sophisticated Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club or the vintage local vibes of the Coach and Horses pub – for just a few ideas.

London is of course, for better or worse, famous for its museums. This city really does pack them in. There are two main areas for museums. First is Bloomsbury and Russel Square, to the East of where we spent last night in Soho. Secondly, to the West slightly in Kensington.

Personally, having been to all of them, I recommend a morning visit to the British Museum in Bloomsbury. It hosts some of the most amazing and important historical artefacts in the world, including the Rosetta Stone. And it’s free!

Nearby is the Hunterian at the Royal College of Surgeons, which is sadly closed until mid-2023. But if it’s open when you read this, fans of weird (and possibly slightly disturbing) historical exhibits will find it a unique experience. There’s also the Dicken’s Museum, for you literary heads, and the fantastic National Gallery which are both not far away.

The other museum area is the Kensington district, just a short tube or bus journey away. These posh leafy streets host the Science Museum, the V&A, the Design Museum and the Natural History Museum – all within walking distance of each other.

After all that high culture in Kensington, let’s try another side to London in the Camden area. Slightly to the North, we suggest getting a tube or bus to Mornington Crescent or Chalk Farm. These stations are either end of Camden High Street, and you can walk inwards from there.

Take a slow afternoon’s stroll down through this iconic musical area, including Camden Market and the gorgeous food court on Camden lock. There’s a tonne of places to get food or drink, ranging from high class restaurants to pub food or street vendors, and it’s crowded with people, buskers and street performers day and night.

If you like rock and metal music, don’t miss out on the The World’s End pub. This legendary haunt of musicians and pre-gig goers is rough and ready as they get, but is steeped in music history.

If you’re not tired out from walking already, finish the afternoon with a super-scenic 20-minute stroll along the Camden Canals to the also famous King’s Cross Station.

Hop on a train or bus back to the Belgravia district to finish your day out in London with a boujie meal. This area is home to a good share of London’s 60-plus Michelin starred restaurants.

Try The Dining Room at the plush Goring Hotel near Victoria Station for real British food, prepared par excellence. Think English lamb or Scottish wild salmon, plated in up in ways so aesthetic you might not even want to eat it..

Alternatively, celebrate London’s long multicultural history with an upmarket take on traditional Indian food at Amaya. Us Brits do love a curry, and these ones use some of the finest ingredients (and chefs) in the world. Plus, lots of vegetarian options too if that’s your thing.

To start the last day of our five day London itinerary, what else but another typical English caf?

We suggest Peter’s Café in Aldgate, which is about half an hour walk from Wapping or 5 minutes on the tube. This unassuming but classic London eatery will be busy with locals in the morning, for an authentic experience. If you’ve had one too many big old fry up breakfasts already, try breakfast bap for something a little lighter.

Us English love the football for one. There are no less than six Premier League teams in London, all with their own impressive stadiums. They play games every weekend and some weekdays from August to May. The closest team to the centre is Chelsea, in West London, although they are the most expensive tickets too.

Try to catch a Fulham game at the wonderful Craven Cottage stadium, also in West London. And right on the banks of the river! Neutral tickets are often available on the day, but we’d advise to check online first.

If you don’t like football, there’s loads of other options too. Rugby at Twickenham. Cricket at Lords. Various international sports like boxing at Wembley Arena or Stadium. Us Londoners do love a good crowd chant, and the atmosphere is nearly always lively wherever you go.

If you don’t like sports and/or crowds, we can of course recommend a calm alternative – a serene afternoon exploring Hampstead Heath. One of London’s biggest parks, head to Parliament Hill viewpoint in the south for stunning skyline views. To get there hop on an Overground line train to Hampstead Heath or Gospel Oak.

Whatever you choose to do in the afternoon, we’ll recommend some healthy food for your last day. Balance out all those fried breakfasts and pints, yeah? Many Londoners do like to keep fit, and there’s plenty of good options about.

For example, Megan’s in Balham in the South west of the city. The place looks absolutely gorgeous to start, and offers super healthy dishes at a good price.

Alternatively, nothing says how multicultural London is like the way the city adopted Falafel. For one of the best takes on this Middle Eastern vegetarian snack in the city try Hibox in Fitzrovia – right by Goodge Street station. Perfect for a quick lunch, or grab a wrap for a fuller dinner before your last night.

So that’s it for our whistle-stop five day itinerary for a London visit. You certainly will see the historical sights. Sample some amazing international food and traditional British cuisines. Sweeping skyline view, and try local drinks in some authentic London pubs.

But of course, this city has way more to see do. As Samuel Johnson famously said “when a man is tired of London, he is tired of life.” We hope to see you back again soon!

Or, for some alternative city destinations around the continent, check out our guide to the best European City breaks.

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London itineraries , London travel tips

London 5-day itinerary: what to see & do during 5 days in london.

London is the kind of city where there is always something to do and never a dull moment. It stays busy around the clock and caters to all types of travellers. If you’re planning on visiting the English capital, the longer you have to spend here, the better.

Fitting all of the sites into a London itinerary may seem a little daunting, but I’m here to help. This guide lays out the city’s top attractions and experiences. I’ve also included some of my favourite cafes and restaurants to try out.

If you’re exploring London in 5 days, you’ll have plenty of time to see the highlights and discover the city like a local.

In this guide:

• 1.1 Covent Garden
• 1.2 Leicester Square
• 1.3 Piccadilly Circus
• 1.4 Buckingham Palace
• 1.5 Westminster
• 1.6 Mayfair
• 1.7 Night Out in Soho
• 1.8 My Favourite Places to Eat in Central London
• 2.1 Portobello Road Market
• 2.2 Notting Hill & Kensington Houses
• 2.3 South Kensington Museums
• 2.4 Hyde Park
• 2.5 My Favourite Places to Eat in Notting Hill & South Kensington
• 3.1 The London Eye
• 3.2 Tate Modern
• 3.3 Millennium Bridge & St Paul’s Cathedral
• 3.4 Tower Bridge
• 3.5 My Favourite Places to Eat and Drink in South Bank
• 4.1 Shoreditch
• 4.2 Brick Lane Market
• 4.3 Camden Market
• 4.4 Primrose Hill
• 4.5 My Favourite Places to Eat and Drink in East London:
• 5.1 Richmond 
• 5.2 Greenwich
• 6 Where to stay for 5 days in London

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London Itinerary Day 1 – Central London

London has very efficient public transport, but getting around London can be a bit of a nightmare (there’s a reason there are so many London tube memes ). I divided this itinerary with a different area for each day, to minimise travel across London.

Kick-off your 5 day London itinerary by exploring some of the city’s most popular squares and attractions. It’ll be a busy day out, so be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and have your camera handy.

Covent Garden is an area of London that perfectly personifies the local vibe. The neighbourhood is centred around the lively Covent Garden Market. This sprawling piazza is full of shops, eateries, and market stalls.

Here you can find lots of traditional London souvenirs to bring back home, as well as some fantastic cocktail bars and cute cafes .

Neal’s Yard is a more quiet corner of Covent Garden full of charm, colour, and excitement. It contains a treasure-trove of independent shops, local boutiques and a wonderful mix of cafes and food joints.

I love walking around this part of London , because while being very distinctly London, it feels far from the usual hustle and bustle of the city.

Leicester Square

There are endless options for entertainment in Leicester Square. This popular pedestrianised area is full of shops, theatres, restaurants, pubs, and clubs. It has a great atmosphere and there is something to do 24/7.

If you’re visiting London during the holidays make sure to check out the annual Leicester Square Christmas Market.

Piccadilly Circus

Piccadilly Circus is a road junction and busy public space. Similar to Times Square in New York, there are lots of large screens with various advertisements. As you can imagine, at night the whole area really lights up and stands out.

Buckingham Palace

No London trip itinerary would be complete without a stop at Buckingham Palace . Serving as the headquarters of the UK monarchy, this iconic palace is a symbol of the city.

If time allows, try and schedule your visit when the Changing of the Guard ceremony is taking place.

Snapping a picture of the guards with their blazing red tunics and bearskin caps will make the perfect #London Instagram post . If you need help crafting the perfect London Instagram caption, check out these suggestions !

Westminster

Westminster is one of London’s 32 boroughs. It contains many famous sites, like the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and Trafalgar Square.

But possibly the most popular attraction is Westminster Abbey . This gothic church has been the setting for royal marriages and coronations for hundreds of centuries.

Mayfair is an upscale area of London with rows of elegant Georgian townhouses, well-kept squares, and gourmet eateries. It’s walking distance from Westminster and is a lovely area for a quiet afternoon stroll. 

While the prices can be quite high, you will find many awesome places to eat and drink in Mayfair. There are many great brunch spots , cafes , bars and pubs in Mayfair .

Night Out in Soho

Cap off the first day of your 5 days in London itinerary with an exciting night out in Soho. This area is known for its lively vibe and has entertainment options galore.

For dancing and drinks, head to All Bar One. For something a little more casual, Ronnie Scott’s is a jazz bar that hosts some of the world’s top musicians.

My Favourite Places to Eat in Central London

Central London has lots of great UK chain restaurants, like Wagamama and Wahaca. But if you’re looking for a more personal dining experience, here are two great restaurants.

Feya – This stylish patisserie/cafe is great for brunch in London . Their latte flavours are quite creative and their brunch dishes are presented as a work of art.

Chotto Matte  – This hip Japanese restaurant and sushi bar is big on flavour. They do an amazing weekend brunch that’s great value for money. And, you have the option to add on unlimited drinks.

London Itinerary Day 2 – Notting Hill & South Kensington

On your second day in London, break free from the city centre and explore the charming districts of Notting Hill and South Kensington .

Portobello Road Market

The Portobello Road Market has something for everyone. Although its main draw are antique and vintage goods, you’ll also find plenty of souvenirs, local vendors, street eats, and a weekend farmer’s market.

Notting Hill & Kensington Houses

Notting Hill has all the features of an amazing London neighbourhood: history, culture, shopping, and an incredible food scene. It’s an affluent area filled with colourful Victorian townhouses, tiny boutiques, and quirky cafes.

Close to it, the district of Kensington offers some of the most picturesque streets in London . You’ll definitely have house envy as you wander the cobblestone streets and admire the decorative buildings.

You can do your own self-guided and free walking tour of Notting Hill by following my route, and really soak in everything this London area has to offer.

South Kensington Museums

South Kensington houses some of London’s top museums . Here are a few that make great additions to all London itineraries.

Natural History Museum – This massive museum displays a vast collection of specimens from different segments of natural history. From dinosaur bones to space exhibits, you’ll be entertained for hours.

Victoria and Albert Museum – Also called the V&A Museum, this is the world’s largest museum of applied and decorative arts and design. The permanent collection alone has over 2.27 million objects. Experience the artistic richness of the world in one place.

London Design Museum – This museum covers all different aspects of design, from product and graphic to fashion and architecture. The exhibits regularly change, so there’s always something new to discover.

This public park is very close to Buckingham Palace. It’s one of London’s royal parks and has a relaxed atmosphere. It’s perfect for a scenic stroll or a quiet picnic under a shady tree.

My Favourite Places to Eat in Notting Hill & South Kensington

The Hummingbird Bakery – this quaint bakery is one of the best cafes in Notting Hill . It’s a great place to grab a sweet snack. They have a wide selection of pastries and desserts in lots of different flavours.

The Kensington Creperie – This simple creperie is great for breakfast and lunch. Their menu includes sweet and savoury crepes and galettes.

London Itinerary Day 3 – South Bank

On day three of your London travel itinerary, get ready to see the city from all different angles. After all, this is a city you’ll want to see from all different perspectives.

The London Eye

The London Eye is one of the world’s tallest observation wheels. Marvel at one of the most unique views of the city in an enclosed capsule on a slow rotation that takes about 30 minutes.

Set along the River Thames, it offers a birds-eye view of famous London landmarks , like the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and St Paul’s Cathedral. Make sure to book tickets online so that you don’t have to queue as much.

Tate Modern

Tate Modern is an art gallery that houses the incredible national collection of British art and international art that dates from 1900 to the present day. There’s no general admission charge, which makes it a fun and free London activity .

Millennium Bridge & St Paul’s Cathedral

The Millennium Bridge, commonly referred to as the Harry Potter bridge by muggles, is a popular pedestrian crossing bridge. It’s suspended over the River Thames and links the Tate Modern with St Paul’s Cathedral .

You can capture some stunning views of London in the background, making it a great place for a quick photoshoot or a selfie. 

Tower Bridge

The Tower Bridge is a historic London landmark. It was built between 1886 and 1894 and sits close to the Tower of London.

It offers beautiful views of the River Thames and the surrounding area. The top section of the bridge has a glass floor so you can view the road and river underneath while you’re crossing.

Tower Bridge itself is also one of the most recognisable and beautiful landmarks in London . I love taking pictures of it at sunset.

My Favourite Places to Eat and Drink in South Bank

Borough Market – This lively market has lots of street food options and is perfect for lunch.

The Shard – For fancy drinks and some of the best views of London, visit The Shard . It’s a little pricey, but totally worth it!

Breakfast Club  – This London chain restaurant does a fabulous all-day breakfast. It caters to carnivores as well as vegans and vegetarians.

London Itinerary Day 4 – East & North London

Now that we’ve covered a fair share of the city’s main highlights on your itinerary for London, let’s get into some lesser-known (but just as incredible) areas and attractions.

The artsy neighbourhood of Shoreditch has a youthful vibe and offers something different from your typical tourist trends.

It has an abundance of local vintage shops and boutiques. There’s also an eclectic range of eateries, including some quirky London cafes and cocktail bars .

  Discovering street art in Shoreditch is the perfect addition to any London sightseeing itinerary. The murals are very eye-catching and unique, and they’re always changing.

Brick Lane Market

The Brick Lane Market is in London’s Bangladeshi community. It’s full of unique items, from antiques and second-hand clothing to furniture and food stalls. There are plenty of good deals to be had, and you never know what unique treasure you’re going to find.

If you want to taste some amazing curry, then this is the place to do so!

Camden Market

Camden Market is a hub of energy and excitement. It’s one of London’s most popular markets and has a bit of a “hipster” vibe. It’s full of just about anything you could imagine: souvenirs, clothing stores, local craft vendors, restaurants , and bars .

The main draw is the countless food stalls. You’ll find something for all tastes and dietary requirements.

Choose from Vietnamese, Columbian, Indian, Mediterranean, British cuisine, and more. Vegan and gluten-free options aren’t hard to find either.

My personal favourite is the halloumi fries stall. These are thick chunks of halloumi, fried and served with pomegrante seeds, yogurt and molasse sauce. Trust me, they’re delicious!

Primrose Hill

During the final moment of sunlight, make your way to Primrose Hill to catch an amazing sunset. Most tourists don’t know about this spot, which makes it a bit of a hidden gem . The hill is 65 metres high and offers picture-perfect views of London’s skyline.

There are a few benches and plenty of grassy lawn space to get comfortable on.

My Favourite Places to Eat and Drink in East London:

Rapsa @100 Hoxton  – This Asian fusion restaurant features innovative dishes. They do weekday lunch and boozy bottomless brunch on weekends.

Doughnut Time  – For a sweet snack, this doughnut shop makes over-the-top creations that are as appealing to the eyes as they are to the stomach.

Sky Garden  – Visit this awesome rooftop bar for incredible views and top-notch drinks. I personally love Sky Garden. The drinks are a bit pricey, but the views are unlike any other in London. I always say Sky Garden is a must-see on any London bucket list .

Dinerama  – This global street food market houses cuisine from all over the world in one convenient location. 

London Itinerary Day 5 – Beyond London

To finish off the perfect five days in London, here are two more areas definitely worth checking out.

Richmond, formally called Richmond upon Thames due to its position on the river, is a town 15km outside of London.

Although just a stone throw from the city, it offers a completely different vibe. You’ll find plenty of open space, large parks, and scenic trails.

Richmond is where the famous Kew Gardens is located. This is London’s largest UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers visitors plenty to see and do.

Wander around an exotic rainforest, see giant lily pads, and walk 18 metres above the ground through the treetops. 132 hectares of gardens will be yours to explore.

Hampton Court Palace and Gardens is another popular Richmond attraction. This 16th-century Tudor palace was a favourite of King Henry VIII.

Explore the lavish residence and discover the young King in an exhibition showcasing his relationship with his first wife, Katherine of Aragon. 

You are also free to explore the 24 hectares of the magnificent palace gardens that run along the River Thames.

Located on the banks of the River Thames, Greenwich is a London borough famous for its maritime history .

The National Maritime Museum is a historical institution filled with British naval treasures. Discover artefacts, paintings, documents, and other pieces of antiquity.

The Cutty Sark is part of the museum’s complex. Hop aboard this restored 19th-century sailing vessel and imagine what it would have been like to voyage around the world back in the day.

Continue your discovery of maritime Greenwich at the Royal Observatory . Established in the 17th century, this is where the great scientists of the day mapped the stars to navigate the seas.

See the famous Meridian Line and stand with one foot in the western hemisphere and one in the east.  Add a little variation to your London 5 day itinerary by spending some time in exciting Greenwich.

Where to stay for 5 days in London

Since you only have five days in London you want to make sure you stay somewhere central and well connected. You don’t want to spend your 5 days in London wasting time on the tube!

I have detailed guides on where to stay in London , especially on where to stay for a first visit to London , but I wanted to list just a couple options for every budget in this post.

Budget: SoHostel   is considered one of the best hostels in London , and it’s easy to see why. With its cool interior design, spacious rooms and central location, it’s the perfect place to stay in London without breaking the bank.

Click here to book your stay at SoHostel!

Mid-range: Artist Residence, Pimlico   – This London boutique hotel is in the heart of London, easily connected all of central London. The tastefully decorated rooms are the perfect place to relax after a long day exploring London.

Click here to see prices and availability at Artist Residence, Pimlico!

Luxury:  St Pancras Renaissance Hotel   – This beautiful property is located right next to Kings Cross Station. It’s in a perfect location to explore London, and also offers luxurious rooms and a spa for those looking to treat themselves.

Click here to book your stay at St Pancras Renaissance Hotel!

London Itinerary 5 Days: Final Thoughts

London is a hub of activity that delights all travellers. It’s one of the largest European cities, which means there’s no shortage of things to do. Explore state-of-the-art museums, bustling markets, charming historical sites, and scenic parks.

I’ve lived in London for eight years, and I still haven’t explored everything there is to see in London.

On this site I put together also a London weekend itinerary , however if you have longer I definitely recommend taking your time and following this London 5-day itinerary.

Five days will give you just enough time to hit the highlights without rushing your trip. You’ll probably fall in love with the city so much, you’ll want to plan another London vacation itinerary!

I hope you find this guide useful in planning your 5 days in London. If you have any questions, just let me know in the comments below!

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Greta Omoboni is a full time blogger based in London. After 3.5 years of blogging about destinations all over the world on her main site, Greta's Travels, she decided to start a new site, dedicated to her second home and favourite city; London!

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Ultimate 5 Days In London Itinerary

Dubbed the “Big Smoke,” London is a fascinating mix of old and new, boasting classic English culture, a diverse population, incredible food, plenty of landmarks and royal history.

London has everything you could want — classic English culture, a multi-cultural population, an amazing foodie scene, landmarks and museums galore, royal goodies, and a rich history.

Despite its size, London is effectively divided into separate areas and neighborhoods. It’s pretty manageable to explore and a great transit system connects it all.

Having first experienced London during my studies at the London School of Economics, I can confidently say that few places captivate me quite like London.

To help you have the best trip, I’ve put together a step-by-step guide for spending 5 perfect days in England’s cultural capital.

With five days, you’ll have plenty of time to see the famous attractions, along with some hidden gems, without feeling too rushed or overwhelmed.

Overview Of 5 Days In London Itinerary

Day 1 : Big Ben, the Palace of Westminster, Westminster Abbey, Churchill War Rooms, West End

Day 2 : South Thames, Tate Modern, Globe Theater, Southwark Cathedral, The Shard, Tower Bridge, Tower of London,

Day 3 : North Thames, Trafalgar Square, National Gallery of Art, Covent Garden, British Museum, St. Paul’s Cathedral, London Eye

Day 4 : Buckingham Palace, Mayfair, Hyde Park, Kensington Palace, Knightsbridge

Day 5 : London Neighborhoods: Notting Hill, Camden, Shoreditch, Hampton Court Palace

If you’re in a hurry, here are the best tours and experiences in London:

• walking tour of London
• 2.5 hour tour of Churchill’s London
• Tower of London guided tour
• tour of royal London
• guided food tour
• guided tour of historic pubs
• guided tour of the British Museum
• Harry Potter walking tour
• Beatles walking tour

To avoid long waits in line, I would also definitely pre-book tickets in advance for the London Eye , Westminster Abbey , Buckingham Palace , St. Paul’s Cathedral , and the Tower of London .

5 Days In London Itinerary

In this 5-day itinerary for London, I’ll guide you through the city’s must visit destinations, cultural attractions, and historic neighborhoods.

I’ve organized the itinerary based on their location to help you plan your days efficiently. Feel free to add or subtract attractions based on your pace of travel.

Day 1: Classic London, Westminster

You’ll start in central London. To get oriented, you may want to book a guided walking tour of the highlights .

1. Parliament Square

Begin your 5 days in London at Parliament Square. The square is flanked with 12 statues of famous historical figures (sadly, only one is a woman).

I particularly love the one of Winston Churchill , one of the UK’s most famous and beloved citizens.

From the square, you’ll have views of Westminster’s iconic UNESCO landmarks — Big Ben, the Palace of Westminster, and Westminster Abbey. The renovations of Big Ben are finally complete and it literally gleams.

The UNESCO-listed Palace of Westminster is the home of the House of Commons and the House of Lords. You can step inside British history and tour parliament any day but Sunday.

Your tour starts in the cavernous Westminster Hall, one of the few bits left after the 1834 fire, and passes through the lavish House of Lords.

There are various ticket options . Be sure to book online well in advance. The best place to photograph the palace is from across the Westminster Bridge.

You can also visit Parliament as part of a walking tour of London’s main sites . Or go on a private history tour of parliament and the Churchill War Rooms .

The Supreme Court of the United Kingdom is also located on Parliament Square. The building is a typical Gothic building, like a solemn palace.

This is the birthplace of modern jurisprudence. It’s a place of great significance not only to the UK but also to the history of world law.

The court has been renovated and modernized. Two courts you can visit inside retain some of the characteristics of the Victorian era. Don’t miss the library.

It’s free to enter the court building. You may get lucky and be able to see an actual case being argued. At 2:00 pm on Fridays you can book a guided tour for £10.00 .

2. Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is a venerable landmark, rich in history, that’s an absolute must see site in London. You’ll need a to pre-book a timed entry ticket .

Founded by Edward the Confessor, the abbey is a shrine of the British nation and a UNESCO-listed site. The official name of the abbey is the Collegiate Church of Westminster.

Constructed between 1245-1517, it’s an architectural masterpiece. The complex has been an abbey, a cathedral, a coronation church, and a royal mausoleum.

The abbey awes with its long nave, cloisters, choir, funerary tombs, and sanctuary. Be sure to check out the tomb of Queen Elizabeth I and her sister Bloody Mary.

The most beautiful part of Westminster Abbey is the stunning Henry VII Chapel in the eastern end. After its debut, the chapel was grandiosely nicknamed a “wonder of the world.”

It’s the work of England’s first Tudor monarch, Henry VII, who vanquished the York king, Richard III , in the Battle of Bosworth and seized control of England.

The chapel features a truly spectacular ceiling. You’ll also find the tomb of Henry VII and his wife Elizabeth of York.

You’ll want to pay the extra 5 pounds to climb up to the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries. It has its own entrance to the right as you enter the abbey.

It’s 100+ steps to the top. You’ll have beautiful views of the nave from atop.

Special exhibits tell the story of the abbey. You’ll see funeral effigies of the monarchs, rare books, tapestries, crowns, swords, and coronation capes.

Tip : Unfortunately, you can’t take pictures in this part of the abbey.

For more information, you can read my guide to the Henry VII Chapel . Click here to pre-book a ticket to Westminster Abbey. You may want to book a combined tour of the abbey and the Houses of Parliament .

3. Horse Guards Parade

While in Westminster, head over to the the Horse Guards Parade along Whitehall. It’s a nice alternative to the vastly more crowded changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace.

The dashing men on horseback are the queen’s bodyguards. Beyond the arches lies the Household Cavalry Museum , a site for military buffs.

4. Churchill War Rooms

If you love history, in the afternoon, pay a visit the labyrinthian underground bunker that is the Churchill War Rooms . It was made famous by the movie The Darkest Hour .

The museum is on the Clive steps of King Charles Street in Westminster. It’s one of London’s best museums.

The exhibits are immersive and expansive. I would recommend no less than 2 hours. You can hear excerpts of rousing Churchill speeches and first hand accounts of life during WWII.

A highlight is a huge 15 meter touchscreen table that chronicles Churchill’s life and the timeline of the war.

You can book a Churchill walking tou r that includes the museum or walking tour of Westminster that includes the museum. You can also combine the museum with London’s WWII sites on this guided tour .

5. Day 1 Evening

No visit to London is complete without taking in a show in the West End, which gives Broadway a run for its money. This area is affectionately referred to as “Theatreland.” There are 40 playhouses clustered around Leicester and Picadilly Squares.

Recently, I’ve seen The Phantom of the Opera , Les Miserables , Wicked , and Book of Mormon there. A couple months ago, I scored a coveted ticket to the critically acclaimed To Kill A Mockingbird and it was fabulous.

You can buy tickets online in advance. You can also take your chances at TKTS ticket booth in Leicester Square, which sells daily discounted tickets.

If you love show biz tales, you can even book a 2 hour guided musical theater tour .

Day 2: South Thames

1. south thames walk.

On day 2 of your 5 days in London itinerary, you’ll do the South Thames Walk. This iconic walk is also known as the “Queen’s Walk.” You can opt to book a 3 hour guided walking tour of this stretch of London.

It stretches from Westminster Bridge to the Tower Bridge. Depending on where you’re staying (I’ve been in Mayfair my last visits), start with a stroll through St. James Park.

I think it’s one of London’s most beautiful parks, with its own lake and bridge.

Or, you can cross Westminster Bridge to access Southbank and the Jubilee Walkway. Cruise right by the rampant buskers and magicians. They’re just there to fleece you or as a distraction for pickpockets.

If you’d like to do the South Thames walk in reverse order and start at the Tower of London, hop on a Thames cruise to the tower .

2. Tate Modern

After you’ve strolled by and ogled the Royal Festival Hall and National Theater, you’ll hit one of my favorite spots in London, the Tate Modern .

The museum is home to room after room of world famous modern and contemporary art. Plus, aside from special exhibitions, it’s absolutely free to visit.

Among other modern art masterpieces , you can clap your eyes on Andy Warhol’s Marilyn Diptych , Marcel Duchamp’s Fountain , Amadeo Modigliani’s Peasant Boy , Pablo Picasso’s Nude Woman in a Red Armchair, and Salvador Dali’s Lobster Telephone .

Don’t miss the room with Mark Rotho’s luminous Seagram Murals. In the 1960s, Rothko gave nine murals to the Tate Modern, which the director called “a princely gesture.”

Rothko insisted on a permanent, exclusive room for the murals. They’re displayed as Rothko intended — in a dimly lit space where the viewer can absorb their meditative character.

Click here to book a guided tour of the Tate Modern.

3. The Globe Theater

Shakespeare’s Globe Theater is an epicenter of English history associated with the bard. The theater is a half-timbered and thatched roof reconstruction of the old theater, which was destroyed by fire in 1613.

Originally built in 1599, it was an Elizabethan style theater in the round, hence the term “globe.”

Its debut play was Shakespeare’s Henry V . Most of Shakespeare’s tragedies were specifically written for the Globe.

There are guided tours of the Globe complex. You can tour the open air theater, the box office, and a Jacobean theater.

The theater is three levels. back in the day, the aristocrats seats were to the side to avoid the heat of the sun. There was no limit on attendees. Everyone crammed in tightly.

There are also 45 minute public tours that leave every 30 minutes. You may even see actors rehearsing their scenes.

Or, you can book a ticket to see the current show. Right now, you can see Macbeth .

4. Southwark Cathedral

Southwark Cathedral is a little Gothic gem that dates back to 606 A.D. It’s London’s oldest Gothic structure. The original site was destroyed by fire in 1212. It was rebuilt and dates from the 13th century.

The older Norman influences can be seen in the rear facade. The Gothic influences are on the front.

Inside, there’s an airy vaulted ceiling made of a sandstone colored brick. You’ll see some beautiful stained glass, a monument to Shakespeare, and some quirky 15th century wooden roof capitols.

5. Borough Market

If you’re hungry and craving some lunch at this point, head to Borough Market .

It’s only a couple minutes from Southwark. The pretty market is London’s ultimate foodie destination, dating back to the 12th century.

There’s not much seating. You can shop for your own groceries.

Or, choose from a wide variety of ethnic food and other tasty options from 100 food stalls.

6. The Shard

Next up is a visit to the Shard. The skyscraper has 95 stories and is over 1000 feet.

The Shard is the tallest skyscraper in the UK. Designed by Renzo Piano, it houses executive offices, restaurants, and a 5 star hotel, the Shangri-La. There’s a killer view of the Shard from the Tower of London.

The Shard’s main draw is its Skydeck on the 72nd floor. A visit is included in the London Pass and accessed by elevator. Or click here to pre-book Shard ticket.

It’s the highest vantage point in London with spectacular panoramic views. For an extra fee, you can also buy a ticket to the Shard’s virtual reality experience.

7. Tower Bridge

The Tower Bridge is one of London’s most defining landmarks. Built between 1886-94 during the reign of Queen Victoria, it was designed to mimic the architectural style of the Tower of London.

You can walk across the bridge. Or purchase a ticket to cross the upper levels.

On a self-guided tour, you’ll learn about the history of Tower Bridge and the Victorian engineering feats that made it possible.

Some of the walkways are glass. You can see the rush of London traffic beneath you and the cloudy water of the Thames.

From my observations, kids seem to particularly enjoy the experience. You can book a 4 hour Tower Bridge and Tower of London experience specifically for kids and families .

Some people misidentify the “London Bridge” as Tower Bridge. It’s not.

Despite its name, the London Bridge is an unremarkable modern edifice. But the nomenclature confusion is so ingrained that, in 1967, American Robert McCullough bought the “London Bridge,” dismantled it, and moved it to Arizona.

It became known as “McCullough’s Folly” because he unknowingly bought the wrong bridge.

8. The Tower of London

Once you’ve crossed the Tower Bridge, you arrive at London’s premiere destination and a UNESCO-listed site: the Tower of London . If you’re a history buff, this is a must see site and the place in London to go. The Tower is history.

It has served as a royal palace, a fortress, a prison, a mint, a military storehouse, a treasury, home to the Crown Jewels, an armory, a public records office, a royal observatory and a royal zoo.

You’ll be blissfully immersed in the various successions of the Edwards, the Richards, and the Henrys.

There’s a free 45 minute Yeoman Warden tour , which begins hourly and which most people rave about. These ceremonial guards are great storytellers and bring a touch of drama and theatrics to the place.

With booming voices and bawdy jokes, they’ll gleefully regale you with delicious sinister bits about torture, beheadings, and executions.

Most visitors are besotted with the Crown Jewels . To me, they’re beautiful in their extravagance, but somewhat boring.

Be prepared to wait in a long queue, if you’re not at the tower during off season. Know that you can’t take photos in this area of the tower.

Aside form the Crown Jewels, you can immerse yourself in the Tower of London’s medieval architecture and history.

The infamous Norman castle is almost a 1000 years old, after all — with 21 towers, battlements, an armory, and a palace. This was where Henry VII’s ill fated wife Ann Boleyn was executed.

Here’s my comprehensive guide to the Tower of London . If you loathe queues, be sure to pre-purchase tickets online in advance. It saves you several pounds to use this method. The Tower is also free with the London Pass .

A ticket comes with a free audio guide. But you can also book a 2-3 hour tour with an expert or a private 3 hour tour to get the full scoop and see the tower’s hidden gems.

If medievalizing has stoked your hunger or you missed Borough Market on the south bank, you can pay a visit to Leadenhall Market . The Victorian covered market is just 10 minutes or so from the tower.

You may recognize it from the Harry Potter movies, where it appeared in Diagon Alley scenes and as the Leaky Cauldron Pub.

If you’re a real Harry Potter fan, you may want to book this 2.5 hour Harry Potter walking tour of London .

You’ll visit Harry Potter filming locations. You’ll see places like the lane that inspired Dragon Alley, Platform 9 3/4, and a secret spiral staircase at St. Paul’s Cathedral.

8. Day 2 Evening

If you loved the Tower, a good post-dinner option is to attend the Ceremony of the Keys . It’s an ancient ritual where the Yeoman Wardens lock up the Tower of London for the night.

It begins promptly at 9:30 pm.

Like most other things in London, you’ll need to purchase tickets in advance . Only 40-50 people are permitted on the grounds for the ceremony.

Day 3: North Thames Walk

1. trafalgar square.

On day 3 of your 5 days in London itinerary, head to Trafalgar Square .

This is London’s central square and the very heart of London. It’s towering Nelson’s Column commemorates the British naval victory in the Battle of Trafalgar.

It’s surrounded by a central fountain and bronze lions. As befitting its central spot, streets spoke out to the major tourist areas — Soho, Covent Garden, Parliament Square, and Buckingham Palace.

2. National Gallery

On the north side of the Trafalgar Square is the National Gallery . The museum is incredibly diverse, featuring 2,000 European paintings from the 13th to the 19th centuries.

The most famous paintings are Leonardo da Vinci’s The Virgin of the Rocks and Raphael’s Portrait of Pope Julius II.

There are also impressive holdings of works by British, Dutch, French, Spanish, and Flemish painters. You’ll find works by renowned artists like Rembrandt,   Michelangelo ,  Botticelli , J.M.W. Turner,  Monet , and  Van Gogh .

To me, it makes the most sense to visit chronologically. If that’s your preferred way to see the museum, you should go in the Sainsbury entrance to the left of the main building.

Here’s my complete guide to the National Gallery of Art . Click here to book a guided tour of this magnificent museum.

3. Benjamin Franklin House Museum

Close to Trafalgar Square you can also visit Benjamin Franklin’s House at 36 Craven Street. It’s a Georgian house-museum that opened in 2006.

It’s the sole surviving residence of founding father Franklin. He lived there 16 years from 1757-75, serving as an ambassador and negotiator. Franklin was also busy inventing devices there and you can play his glass harmonica inside.

The museum is a grade 1 historic site, which means it’s given the highest level of conservation. It’s a good spot for history buffs or fans of Georgian Architecture.

You can take the “history tour” with guides in historic costume or an “architecture tour.” The museum is included in the London Pass, but you have to book a timed entry tour online in advance.

4. Covent Garden

Covent Garden has been a popular London neighborhood since the 17th century. It’s a mix of tony restaurants and cocktail lounges, boutique souvenir stalls, and indie market halls.

If it’s your first time in London, you should definitely pay a visit. In fact, if you love markets (I know I do), you can book a 3 hour guided tour of Covent Garden, Camden, and Borough markets.

Covent Garden main draw is Apple Market. But its must see attractions extend to the adjacent streets of Neal’s Yard, Seven Dials, and Central Square (where you’ll find street performers). Neal’s Yard is particularly attractive, filled with quaint shops and cafes.

Covent Garden is also where you’ll find London’s Royal Opera House . If you passed on a West End show, you can take in a ballet here. Or take a guided tour of the posh place.

5. British Museum

Then, take a 10-15 minute detour north to the artsy Bloomsbury area, where you’ll find one of the world’s foremost museums, the British Museum .

It’s a universal museum and an unmissable site in London, holding many of the world’s most important artifacts.

On top of that, it’s utterly free (with donations suggested). To make sure you get in, you should book a timed entry reservation (for free) online.

The British Museum is famously home to the Elgin Marbles, artifacts acquired by conquest from the Parthenon.

Another highlight is the rekowned Rosetta Stone. This artifact helped historians translate ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs. There are loads of other Egyptian, Assyrian, and international exhibits.

For more information, here’s my complete guide to the British Museum . It’s so massive that you may want to book a guided tour . You can even have afternoon tea there.

If you’re a literary buff, you can also opt to head 10-15 minutes northeast to Charles Dickens House at 48 Doughty Street.

Grab an audio guide and inspect five floors of the fully restored Georgian townhouse, where Dickens wrote some of his best novels.

6. Royal Courts of Justice

After you’re done museum-ing, walk 15 minutes back to the Strand.

There, you can admire the Royal Courts of Justice on Fleet Street, which runs parallel to the Thames north bank. The building is an underrated destination in London, and it shouldn’t be.

Designed by George Edmund Street, the courts have an ornate rippling facade of gothic towers. The Victorian era structure is beautiful, cathedral like, and imposing — no lawyer could resist visiting it.

The courts are open most days and guided tours leave at 11:00 and 2:00 pm. (no photos allowed). You should at least walk by to admire it properly.

Click here to book a guided tour of the courts. Otherwise, you can pop in and take a peak at the central hall.

7. St. Paul’s Cathedral

Next up is the world famous St. Paul’s Cathedral . The church has a colorful history. It’s been looted, burned, and destroyed.

St. Paul’s was rebuilt for good in 1710 by Sir Christopher Wren, and survived Nazi bombing. It’s been the site of royal funerals and weddings, including that of Prince Charles and Lady Diana.

The cathedral has the scale and classicism of St. Peters Basilica in Rome . The exterior features Wren’s magnificent Renaissance dome, 225 feet high.

The interior is beautiful as well, especially the high altar in marble and gilded wood. There are stunning mosaics.

The cupola of the dome was painted by James Thornhill and has been restored. The guards will encourage you to lay down on the sun dial beneath it to get the best photo.

There’s an admission fee to enter the cathedral, which includes access to climb to the top. I highly recommend this, if you’re able to ascend the 528 steps. But it’s a steep spiral climb. It’s dimly lit and not for the faint of heart.

On your way, you can check out the famous whispering gallery (where sounds travels around the circular hall), the Stone Gallery, and the Golden Gallery.

You’ll have stunning views of London and can inspect the iconic dome at closer range. Another tip is to visit the mall next to the cathedral.

From the 6th floor, which you can access for free, you’ll have great close up views of the dome.

Here’s my complete guide to St. Paul’s Cathedral . Click here to purchase a ticket. You can also book a 2.5 hour guided tour of St. Paul’s and other London viewpoints.

8. Day 3 Evening

If you omitted any of the museums listed above from your daytime itinerary due to time constraints, keep in mind some have evening hours on Friday and/or Saturday.

Evening is also a good time to explore Soho or do some shopping on Oxford Street before having a late dinner. If you’re visiting in the winter, Oxford Street has spectacular illuminations.

Since your third day in London ends at St. Paul’s, another option is to cross over the Millennium Bridge and take a ride on the London Eye .

The view from the Eye is most beautiful in the late afternoon or early evening at sunset.

As a bonus, the usually massive queues for the Eye subside somewhat later in the day.

Nonetheless, the Eye is an attraction that you must pre-book a ticket for. You can take a tour of the London eye and a river cruise .

You could even combine your sunset whirl on the Eye with dinner at one of the restaurants at The Shard .

Alternatively, head to the Sky Garden on the 43rd floor of London’s “walkie talkie” building on Fenchurch Street. It’s billed as London’s “highest public garden.”

Day 4: West London

1. buckingham palace.

Staying in Mayfair, I seemed to stroll by the Queen’s official residence, Buckingham Palace , on a daily basis. There’s always a crush of tourists.

The Victoria statue and the wrought iron gates are quite lovely. But otherwise it’s a bit of an overrated celebrity culture pit stop. There are many more impressive palaces in the world.

You can watch the palace’s changing of the guards at 11:00 am. It’s an elaborate, precisely-timed game of tag. Snap a photo and move on.

If you’re an ardent royalist, you can only tour the royal state rooms during a 10 week period in the summer.

It’s a 2 hour tour and you’ll need to pre-book tickets . You can also opt for a private tour of the palace that includes the changing of the guard.

Mayfair is a lovely slice of west London bordered by Oxford Street, Regent Street, Picadilly, and Park Lane. Mayfair is quiet, immaculate, and synonymous with luxury.

You can find scads of high end shopping on Bond Street and Mount Street. But what I love most is Mayfair’s parks, squares, and gardens.

The Mount Street Gardens are the loveliest. There’s a long line of benches for you to plop down and people watch.

If you fancy a picnic, pick up food at the Tony Mount Street Deli and eat in the lovely Grosvenor Square. The statue of FDR is regal, but looked like a pigeon breeding ground when I was last there.

Tip: For an excellent and eccentric little museum, you can pop into the Handel-Hendrix Museum , where the two great musicians once lived.

3. Hyde Park

Of the six royal parks in London, Hyde Park usually takes top prize. It’s a joy to wander through. You shouldn’t rush it.

It’s a 350 acre break from city life, after all, and dotted with lovely follies and fountains. Stroll, feed the ducks, or rent a paddle boat.

Hyde Park was a brainchild of Henry VIII , who used it as a hunting ground.

The main attractions are the Princess Diana Memorial, the Albert Memorial, the Serpentine (a 40 acre lake), the Bandstand, the Italian Gardens, and the Achilles Statue.

4. Kensington Palace

Next up is Kensington Palace . It’s been a royal residence since the 17th century. It was once the primary residence of Queen Victoria.

It’s now home to young royals. Both Princess Diana and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, William and Kate, once lived there.

Your ticket secures you a tour of the State Rooms, the King’s Grand Staircase, and the King’s Gallery.

There’s an exhibition on Queen Victoria, who was born there. There are also special exhibitions, often related to fashion.

Click here to purchase a ticket. You can also book this very popular tour that gives you a guided tour of the palace plus a high tea .

5. Knightsbridge

If you’re pining to go to Harrods , you’re not alone. Over 15 million people a year visit the iconic store with jaw dropping architecture.

Harrods is in the Knightsbridge neighborhood of West London. Founded in 1849, Harrods has every type of product imaginable, with a fantastic Food Hall.

Most people associate the tiny Knightsbridge neighborhood exclusively with the luxe store. But Knightsbridge is more than just Harrods.

It’s an exclusive residential area as well. It’s a lovely place for a stroll, particularly the area between Brompton Road and Hyde Park.

6. Natural History Museum

London’s Natural History Museum is housed in a stunning Victorian building. Even if you’re not interested in natural history, you should still stroll by — the building is just so stunning.

If you walk in, you’re greeted with a massive whale skeleton suspended from the roof. Though the museum’s not ultra high tech, it does have an “escalator through the earth.”

Among its 70 million specimens, you’ll find skeletons of the first Tyrannosaurus Rex and Iguanadon ever found, a gigantic sloth, an animatronic T rex, and Charles Darwin’s specimens and fossils.

You can book a skip the line 2 hour guided tour of the museum.

7. Day 4 Evening

If you’d like to get a proper pint, sign up for a walking tour of central London’s historic pubs.

You’ll visit classic pubs like the Cheshire Cat on Fleet Street. You can also book a 3 hour tour of the West End pubs .

There are quite a few good boozers in historic Mayfair too — the Iron Duke, Audley, and the Golden Lion among others.

But London also has a thriving beer culture and you’ll find cutting edge breweries galore. Unless you’re specific, you’ll be given a full pint.

Day 5: London Neighborhoods

On day 5 on your 5 days in London itinerary, you should check out some of London’s beautiful neighborhoods. One of the best things about London is that its neighborhoods are richly diverse, each with its own character.

I’ve suggested Notting Hill, Camden, and Shoreditch for your morning excursion. Just pick one that suits you best.

1. Notting Hill

What draws people to Notting Hill is the row after row of Instagram perfect houses in soft pastel hues. The area was made famous by the 1999 film staring Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant.

Be sure to stroll down Talbot Road, Blenheim Crescent, and Westbourne Grove for books, cafes, art work, and shopping. Hillgate Place is also an especially beautiful nook.

Notting Hill’s Portobello Road is one of the most famous street markets in the world. The road holds markets six days a week, including the popular Saturday antique sale.

Click here to book a 2 hour walking tour of Notting Hill. You can also book a 4 hour guided tour that includes Covent Garden, Notting Hill, and Portobello Market.

I recently booked that 4 hour tour and had a wonderful guide. He ended up giving me a 5 hour tour and we also strolled through Belgravia and South Kensington.

The Camden neighborhood is quirky and covered in fantastic street art. It’s known for its edgy shops and massive market featuring indie foodie specialties.

The market is the largest outdoor street market in London. It’s a fun place to visit — just not on the weekend! Click here for a guided walking tour.

You can also pay a visit to Primrose Hill. It features pastel houses reminiscent of Notting Hill and a great view of the London skyline.

Primrose Bakery is famous for its cupcakes. For some green relief, stroll around Regent’s Park or Regent’s Canal, just minutes away from Camden.

3. East London

Shoreditch is a formerly gritty area of London that’s now ultra-cool and bohemian. It’s known for its vintage markets, colorful murals, galleries, and trendy bars.

Shoreditch is a buzzy part of London, distinct from its grand historic gestalt or the dainty houses in west London.

Shoreditch was also home to Shakespeare. While the Globe Theater graced the south bank, there was also a theater in Shoreditch called, not very inventively, “The Theater.” It’s no longer there. But in its place is a flowery Romeo & Juliet mural.

READ : Best Things To Do In East London

You can’t visit this area of London without a stroll down Brick Lane. It’s a vibrant thin cobbled street running through the Whitechapel neighborhood.

You’ll be surrounded by eye-popping street art murals, bagel shops, vintage finds, and cutting edge designers. If hunger calls, Brick Lane is known for its curries and headline cafe, the Cereal Killer.

You should also pop into the bustling Spitalfields Market . You can try a free sample, grab lunch with the locals, or indulge in treat at Humble Crumble.

The independent traders also offer cutting edge fashion, original artworks, and artisan crafts.

One of the easiest and most fun ways to explore this area of London is on a street art tour. Some of the world’s greatest graffiti artists have painted Shoreditch and Brick Lane walls — Banksy, Ben Eine, Conor Harrington, Dal East, Stixx, and Thierry Noir.

There are quite a few other ways to explore this area, which vary in length. You can take a 2 hour small group street art walking tour of Shoreditch.

You can book a 3 hour walking tour of Shoredtitch and East London. Or, to see the best art and take photos, take this 4 hour art walking tour .

I went on the 3 hour tour and it was wonderful. I even discovered some secret hidden gems in East London, like the ancient Roman Mithraeum .

4. Day Trip To Henry VII’s Hampton Court Palace

Alternatively, if you’d like to exit the bustling city, I recommend a day trip to Hampton Court Palace . It’s only 40 minutes afield.

The palace was the former stomping grounds of the infamous King Henry VIII, one of the England’s most notorious characters. It’s the greatest surviving medieval palace in the world.

Hampton Court has a deliciously rich and scandalous history. Built between 1514-25, the palace was originally the home of Henry VIII’s chief minister, Cardinal Wolsey.

Golden Boy Henry suffered an injury there that changed the course of his life — transforming him from a dashing energetic king into a tyrannical monster.

For the full scoop, read my guide to Hampton Court Palace . Click here for an entrance ticket. Click here for a guided tour.

5. Day 5 Evening

If you have any energy left after 5 days of touring London, now’s the time to take an eerie evening tour.

If you liked Shoreditch and adore spooky sites, try the Jack the Ripper Tour . Jack the Ripper was England’s most infamous serial killer.

With an expert guide, you can follow his footsteps on a terror walk through the cobbled lanes of Whitechapel and Spitalfields.

Tips For A 5 Days In London Itinerary

1. how to get to london.

London has six airports, including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, London City, and Southend. Heathrow and Gatwick are the busiest airports, with flights from major international destinations.

There are several ways to get to central London. From Heathrow, you can take the Heathrow Express , the tube, taxi, or a private transfer . From Gatwick, you can take the Gatwick Express, the train, taxi, or book a private transfer .

London is also well-connected to other cities in the UK and Europe by train. London’s major train stations King’s Cross, Euston, Victoria, Liverpool Street, Paddington, and Waterloo.

2. Should You Get A London City Pass ?

Should you invest in the London Pass ? The London Pass is a prepaid card that gives you skip the line entry to London’s top tourist attractions.

If you follow this 5 day London itinerary and plan on visiting most everything, then purchasing a 3 day London Pass is worth it financially. Start using it on day 1.

Theres’s also a London Explorers Pass . With it, you can pre-select entry to 3, 5, or 7 out of 20 included destinations. The Explorer’s Pass includes the London Eye, while the London Pass doesn’t.

3. Do You Need An Oyster Card?

The Oyster Card is another handy London pass. It’s a smart card used to pay for transportation in London, including the tube and buses. Tube stations are everywhere in London, as common as souvenir stands.

You can purchase an Oyster Card online in advance of your trip and have it mailed to your home. You can also buy the card at tube stations and airports. There’s a one time £5 fee to purchase the card.

You preload the card with money. Each time you scan the card to take public transport, the fare will be automatically deducted from the card.

Once you hit the daily max, you have unlimited travel. For an comprehensive explanation of the Oyster Card, click here .

4. How To Get Around London

London is a great city to explore on foot, and you don’t necessarily need to buy an Oyster Card.

The city is quite flat and has plenty of sidewalks, making it a foot-friendly destination. If you plan your itinerary one neighborhood at a time, you’ll be able to cover a lot of ground without getting tired.

That being said, London is a very large city, so at some point you may need to use some form of transportation to get around.

In addition to the tube, you can also consider taking taxis to get between attractions. Black taxis are a common sight in London, and their drivers are known for being friendly and helpful.

Plus, there are plenty of other fun ways to explore London. You can book:

• 3.5 hour guided bike tour
• 2 hour electric bike tour
• hop o n hop off river cruise
• hop on hop off bus
• dinner cruise on the Thames
• Beatles-themed evening tour
• evening tour of London by car

5. Where To Stay In London

This is a big topic. London has a booming hotel scene. Where you stay depends entirely on whether you prefer central London or somewhere less busy and noisy (and also on your budget).

I often stay in Mayfair because it’s beautiful and peaceful. Mayfair is loaded with some of London’s best hotels.

You can book at:

• Beaumont Hotel (traditional and stylish Art Deco style)
• Duke’s London (feel like you’re stepping into PBS series)
• The Connaught (luxury cocooning retreat)
• The Stafford London (elegant 19th century home in St. James),
• Claridge’s (elegant Art Deco with aristocratic good looks)
• Four Seasons (sunny guest rooms with great views)

If you want something in central London, you should check out:

• Corinthia (gold leaf and an amazing spa)
• The Bloomsbury (elegant red brick building with a well stocked library)
• Rosewood London (restored Edwardian luxury)
• Ham Yard Hotel (cool boutique hotel in Soho)
• Dorchester (English country house style with a killer afternoon tea)

6. When To Visit London

London is a popular year round destination, but it is busiest in the summer months and the holiday season. If you want to avoid some of the crowds, try visiting in spring or fall. Spring is especially beautiful with flowers blooming. 

London is also known for its rather unpredictable weather. It’s best to wear lawyers and have an umbrella handy. 

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to spending 5 perfect days in London. You may enjoy these other England travel guides and resources:

• Tourist traps to avoid in London
• Best day trips from London
• Hidden gems in London
• Best museums in London
• One Day in Stratford-upon-Avon itinerary
• One Day in Bath England itinerary
• One Day in Canterbury itinerary
• Is Stonehenge worth visiting?
• One day in Rye itinerary
• Cambridge day trip from London
• Dover day trip from London
• Guide to Windsor Castle

If you need a 5 days in London itinerary, pin it for later.

10 thoughts on “Ultimate 5 Days In London Itinerary”

Definitely one of the best articles I have read about being a tourist in London. You think you know it all, but London is so multidimensional that it’s hard to describe in a clear and grounded way how to set your mindset. Leslie does it beautifully.

Thanks you so much! I love London and already have a list of more things I need to see when I go back.

Excellent article! Thank you for great info and contact links. I’m visiting in Nov and have exactly 5 days.

Thanks so much! Enjoy London! I just got back and am already planning another trip.

Loved reading this, some great spots!

Thank you so much Sammi!

Amazing blog, I loved reading it, please keep on writing blogs like this in future as well.

Thanks Elena! I will!

Love this so much, I’m planning a (somewhat) spur of the moment 5 day trip to London in October, so this is super helpful! Do you have a recommendation of where to fit in the Harry Potter studio tour, in lieu of something else you have listed? Thanks 🙂

I would book a guided day trip tour in lieu of what I suggested on day 5. The studio is great. FYI, here’s my guide to Harry Potter places in London that includes an overview of the studio with ideas for tickets and tours: https://www.thegeographicalcure.com/post/harry-potter-filming-locations-in-london

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Last Updated on April 26, 2024 by Leslie Livingston

5 day London itinerary | How to spend 5 days in London

Disclosure: I may earn a small commission from the companies or products mentioned in this post.

London is a huge, diverse and exciting city, with so much to see and do that trying to organise a visit may be a little daunting for a first-time visitor.

Luckily for you, I have spent the majority of my life calling this amazing city home and have put together this detailed 5 day London itinerary to help you make the most out of your visit.

Unlike many other itineraries, this one is specially designed to show you how to spend 5 days in London with minimal time wasted travelling around on public transport.

5 day London itinerary

What you'll find in this post

Buckingham Palace

The first stop of your day should be at one of London’s top attractions, Buckingham Palace, to see the daily Changing of the Guards .

The Changing of the Guards is the historic ceremony in which the current patrol of Queens Guards is replaced by new Guards. The Guards are led by a full marching band, the keys to Buckingham Palace exchange hands and the Guards hand over responsibility for protecting Buckingham Palace.

St James Park

From Buckingham Palace take a stroll through St James Park, the oldest of London’s eight Royal Parks.

Wander through the lush green space and don’t forget to stop on the bridge over the central lake to look around and take in the great views back over Buckingham Palace, St James Palace and the London Eye.

The walk should take around 20 minutes before you reach Whitehall on the eastern side.

10 Downing Street & Whitehall

Whitehall is a road in the City of Westminster full of important political and historical buildings, including Banqueting House, Winston Churchills former War Office, Dover House, Admiralty House, The Household Cavalry Museum and the Horse Guards Parade.

Just off of Whitehall is one of London’s best known roads, Downing Street , home and office of the British Prime Minister.

Unfortunately you can’t get right up close to 10 Downing Street as the street is blocked off with extensive security, however, you can take a peep at its famous front door from a distance.

Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey, which was originally founded in 906 AD, is a large gothic-style church which has played host to many of Britains most important events, including the coronation of every King and Queen since William the Conqueror in 1066 and numerous royal weddings including, most recently, Prince William and Catherine in 2011.

It is also the burial site of many past royals, prime ministers and other notable British persons such as famous poets, writers, scientists and military leaders.

The impressive Westminster Abbey can be admired from the outside or if you’d like to see more you can take a tour of much of its interior with a paid entrance ticket .

Houses of Parliament & Big Ben

Another absolute must on any London itinerary is the Houses of Parliament (Palace of Westminster) and Big Ben, which are among the most iconic images of the English capital.

The thousand-year-old Palace of Westminster is the meeting place for both the House of Commons and the House of Lords, the two houses of the Parliament of the United Kingdom. Whilst Big Ben is the name of the grand bell which sits inside the palace’s Victoria Tower – although many mistakenly believe it to be the name of the clocktower itself.

Cross over Westminster Bridge for some of the best views back towards the Houses of Parliament and its world-famous clocktower.

Southbank & the London Eye

Once you’ve crossed Westminster Bridge, take a stroll down Southbank, one of London’s busiest areas and main tourist hubs.

Along Southbank, you’ll find attractions including The London Eye , SEA LIFE Aquarium , The London Dungeon , Wonderground Fairground, the Southbank Centre, the National Theatre and the BFI film theatre.

Trafalgar Square

Photo credit: Wikimedia .

From Southbank, cross over the Golden Jubilee Bridge to Embankment then walk up to Trafalgar Square, an important pedestrianised square built around the area formerly known as Charing Cross.

As well as being the location of the National Gallery , London’s major free art museum, Trafalgar Square is home to Nelson’s Column , which is protected by four large bronze lions , two impressive fountains, the ‘ Fourth Plinth ‘ which displays contemporary artwork from around the world, and London’s smallest police box .

Covent Garden

Finally, end the day in Covent Garden, another large pedestrianised piazza in London’s West End, with plenty of shops, street performers, restaurants with alfresco dining, pubs and bars.

Head down Covent Garden’s side streets to find some of the less touristy restaurants and local pubs regularly frequented by nearby workers.

221b Baker Street

Photo credit: Wikimedia

221b Baker Street in London is an address easily recognised by people all across the planet, and has even been referred to as ‘the world’s most famous address’.

And just in case you don’t know, it was the home of fictional detective Sherlock Holmes between 1881-1904, according to the famous stories written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

So if you’re a Sherlock Holmes fan, dropping by 221b Baker Street is a must.

The very real address of the fictional detective is now a privately run museum dedicated to everything Sherlock Holmes, with exhibits including items from several different adaptations of Sherlock Holmes, as well as recreations of famous scenes.

Plus don’t miss the Sherlock Holmes statue right next to Regent Street tube station, just a few minutes walk from the museum.

Regents Park

Once you’re done on Baker Street, head straight next door into Regents Park , one of London’s eight royal parks.

Regent’s Park is the largest grass area for sports in Central London so you’re bound to see teams training or games taking place. Plus, there are also plenty of other cool things to do in Regents Park:

• Queen Mary’s Rose Garden – a world-famous garden which has over 12,000 roses of every colour
• The Avenue Gardens – elegant fountains surrounded by beautiful ornamental flower displays
• A large boating lake with boat and pedalo hire from the boathouse
• Several children’s playgrounds with play equipment
• An Open-Air Amphitheatre which hosts regular performances

ZSL London Zoo

Next head to the world-famous London Zoo , which is conveniently located in the north-east corner of Regents Park.

London Zoo is one of the largest collections of animals in the UK, with nearly 20,000 individuals spanning almost 700 species, including lions, tigers, giraffes, Galápagos giant tortoises, wallabies, numerous primate species, a colony of Humboldt penguins and plenty more.

The Zoo is a great London experience for families, animal-lovers or anyone looking for a fun way to spend a few hours.

Regents Canal

From the zoo, leave Regents Park by following Regents Canal towards Camden Lock.

The charming canal-side walk will take you past plenty of houseboats, the occasional group of kayakers or paddleboarders, ‘The Pirate Castle’ (a boating and outdoor activities charity based inside a unique castle-like building) and St Marks Church, which during the warmer months has a stall serving drinks and ice creams.

Camden Town and Market

Spend the afternoon in one of London’s most lively and bohemian neighbourhoods , Camden, with its colourfully decorated buildings, quirky shops, great food and the famous Camden Market.

Camden Market is the sprawling indoor and outdoor market which consumes much of the area, with over 1,000 stalls selling everything from clothes and homeware to food and alcohol.

Camden is also the meeting point of many of the city’s more alternative subcultures and you’ll notice that many of the stalls and shops in Camden cater for the areas unconventional clientele, with plenty of alternative fashion such as cybergoth, steampunk and grunge.

Make sure to pop by Kerb for a late lunch or early dinner (it shuts at 6pm) . Kerb is Camden’s popular street food market with multiple traders serving up delicious dishes from all around the world.

Primrose Hill

Finally, end the day by heading back down Regents Canal towards Regents Park, then heading to the northern area of the park known as Primrose Hill.

Primrose Hill is one of the best free viewpoints in London to take in the iconic skyline as the sun sets over the city.

Tower of London

The Tower of London is a historic castle on the banks of the River Thames, which since its founding in 1066 has been used as a fortress, royal residence and even a prison.

Nowadays the Tower of London is primarily a popular tourist attraction which visitors can take a tour with a real Yeoman Warder (the ceremonial guardians of the Tower) while learning about its long and interesting history.

The Tower does still have some ceremonial use and is home to the all-important Crown Jewels , which have been housed there since the 3rd century AD and are on display for visitors to see.

Tower Bridge

From the Tower of London, head to the south side of the river by crossing London’s most famous suspension bridge by foot.

Don’t forget to snap a few photos of the iconic landmark on the way, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch the bridge opening for a passing boat.

Borough Market

Just a short walk down the river, past the HSM Belfast, you’ll reach London Bridge tube station and one of London’s most famous foodie hotspots, Borough Market.

The huge indoor covered market has a mix of produce traders selling fresh fruit and veg, meats, cheese, bread, alcohol and more, as well as many speciality traders with a range of tasty and unique products for you to sample.

Borough Market is also a great place to grab a delicious cooked lunch , with many food traders on site serving dishes from all across the world.

Foodie? Don’t miss my ultimate guide to the best Borough Market food stalls .

Globe Theatre

Shakespeare’s Globe is a reconstruction of the original Globe Theatre located just around the corner, for which British playwright William Shakspeare wrote his world-famous plays.

As well as being able to visit the excavation site of the original theatre which unfortunately burnt down in 1613, visitors can take a tour of the reconstructed round wooden building and learn about its history, as well as being able to watch productions of Shakspearean classics (standing tickets for as little as £5).

St Pauls Cathedral

St Pauls is a large Anglican cathedral  in the City of London.

The Grade I listed building was designed by acclaimed British architect Sir Christopher Wren and is one of the most recognisable landmarks in London , with its famous domed roof dominating the city skyline for over 300 years.

You can either take a stroll around the Cathedral’s gardens and admire its impressive architecture from the outside or pay to enter and take a tour of St Pauls equally impressive interior.

The City of London

After you’re finished at St Pauls, spend the rest of your day exploring the City of London, the historic centre  and the  primary central business district (CBD)  of the capital.

Around the city you’ll find plenty of reminders of London’s long and diverse history, such as the cobbled medieval streets , Victorian Leadenhall Market, segments of the old Roman City Wall and the impressive 300-year-old Bank of England building.

But the absolute highlight of the City of London has to be the many modern skyscrapers which dominate London’s skyline, including the Shard, the Gherkin, the Cheesegrater and the Walkie Talkie (London skyscrapers are conveniently given nicknames based on the way they look).

The Sky Garden

Many of the skyscrapers have their own viewing platforms, bars or restaurants which you can visit to admire their amazing views over the city below.

Where to get the best views in the City of London:

• The Sky Garden (my personal recommendation) – Sat within the Walkie Talkie is London’s ‘highest public garden’  which is completely free to visit (but you do need to book a slot in advance) . There are also a few restaurants and bars within the Sky Garden you can visit for dinner or a drink.
• The View from The Shard – A public viewing platform on levels 69-73 of London’s tallest building.
• Oblix – Restaurant and bar on the 32nd floor of The Shard.
• Duck and Waffle – Iconic 24 hour restaurant on the 40th floor of 110 Bishopsgate.
• Sushi Samba – A unique blend of Japanese, Brazilian, & Peruvian cuisines on the 38th and 39th floors of 110 Bishopsgate.
• Helix Restaurant – A modern British restaurant on the 39th floor of the Gherkin.

The British Museum

Start day 4 of this London 5 day itinerary with a trip to the British Museum.

Founded in 1753, the British Museum was the first national museum in the world to cover all fields of human knowledge. The museum’s fascinating collection of artefacts spans over two million years of human history, art and culture.

And if the museum’s extensive free collections aren’t enough to draw you in, then its architecture certainly will. At the centre of the British Museum sits the largest covered public square in Europe , known as the Queen Elizabeth II Great Court, a two-acre space enclosed by a spectacular glass roof.

Oxford Street & Regent Street

Once you’ve got your fill of history and culture for the day, it’s time for a spot of shopping on two of London’s busiest and most famous shopping streets.

First head down Oxford Street where you’ll find all the main high street stores as well as  huge department stores  including Selfridges, House of Fraser, John Lewis and Liberties.

Then from Oxford Circus, walk south down Regent Street , the curved road best known for being home to many high-end, luxury and designer brands, as well as the famous Hamleys Toy Store .

Soho & the West End

For the rest of the day, spend some time exploring London’s iconic West End.

First discover the neighbourhood of Soho , one of London’s most lively and vibrant areas, with plenty of quirky independent shops, cafes, restaurants, bars and nightclubs. It is also where you’ll find the majority of London’s sex shops, burlesque shows and LGBQT+ bars.

Soho is also a great place to grab dinner. Try Kingly Court for some of the coolest, tastiest and most budget-friendly restaurants in Soho.

Then head south to the real heart of the West End where you’ll find the many theatres of Shaftesbury Avenue , the bright lights of Picadilly Circus , the cultural hub of Leicester Square and London’s exciting Chinatown. 

Things to do in the West End at night:

• See a show at one of the West End’s many theatres
• Head to the cinema in Leicester Square
• Gamble at the Hippodrome Casino
• Hit a bar or club in Soho
• Go late night shopping (some stores are open until 10pm)

Notting Hill

Start your final day of this London itinerary in the charming neighbourhood of Notting Hill, filled with rows of colourful houses and the world’s largest antique market .

The area has featured in a number of films and tv shows over the years, most famously Julia Roberts and Huge Grants 1999 movie ‘Notting Hill’.

Head to Notting Hill in the morning so you can visit Portobello Road Market, which has over 1000 traders selling a range of amazing antiques and collectables. And for those aren’t particularly interested in antiques, the market also has plenty of other traders selling clothes, jewellery, tourist nicknacks, household goods and lots of food.

Kensington Gardens & Hyde Park

From Notting Hill, it’s just a short walk to reach Kensington Gardens , the large public park surrounding Kensington Palace .

While the majority of Kensington Palace is still a royal residence and home to some of the younger members of the royal family, currently including TRH The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (Will and Kate) and family, parts of the historic Palace are open to the public every day – including the rooms which were once home to Queen Victoria.

Connected to Kensington Gardens you’ll then find Hyde Park , the largest park in central London.

There’s plenty to do in Hyde Park, including hiring a boat to go out on the Serpentine boating lake , visiting the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain , stepping inside the Serpentine Art Gallery or simply taking a leisurely stroll through the lush green space on a sunny day.

South Kensington Museums

Below Hyde Park is the high-end neighbourhood of South Kensington which, as well as it’s many luxurious townhouses, is home to some of London’s most important cultural and scientific institutions.

South Kensington’s Exhibition Road is where you’ll find three of London’s best free museums ; the Natural History Museum , the Science Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum (art & design) .

All three museums are huge, fascinating places and you could easily spend a few hours exploring each one. They’re also all completely free to visit, so depending on your personal interests you could also take a slightly shorter visit to all three.

Knightsbridge & Harrods

Next, head to South Kensington’s swanky neighbour, the upscale area of Knightsbridge .

Home to many of London’s wealthiest international residents, Knightsbridge unsurprisingly has numerous 5* hotels, high-end restaurants, stylish clothes shops and the iconic Harrods department store.

Being one of London’s most prestigious areas, most places do come with a substantial price tag, however even if you’re not looking to drop a large sum during your trip, Knightsbridge is still an interesting neighbourhood to take a walk around.

If you still have the time and energy, spend the final evening of your 5 days in London ticking off one more of London’s most exciting neighbourhoods.

Shoreditch is located in East London and is particularly popular with the capital’s young hipster crowd and is covered with beautiful and colourful street art.

It is a hub for the creative industries, start-ups and co-working spaces where young entrepreneurs and freelancers spend their days working and nights mingling in the areas many restaurants, bars and clubs.

Where to eat in Shoreditch:

• Indian – Dishoom
• Italian – Gloria, Homeslice, Pizza East, Pizza Pilgrims
• Steak – Blacklock, Hawksmoor
• Burgers – Haché, Burger & Beyond, Dirty Bones
• Chicken – Absurd Bird

Unique places for a night out in Shoreditch:

• BallieBallerson Ball-Pit Bar
• Bounce Ping Pong Bar
• Junkyard Golf Club
• All-Star Lanes Bowling Alley
• Alcatraz Prison Bar
• Blues Kitchen

What to see in London in 5 days – Alternate ideas

If any of the days or stops in this 5 day London itinerary don’t sound like your cup of tea, its easy enough to make a swap and replace it with something else instead.

Here are a few other alternate ideas for spending 5 days in London…

All of these activities can   be done in a day or half-day.

• Kew Gardens
• Harry Potter Studio Tour
• Hampton Court Palace

Where to stay in London for 5 days

There are so many options for where to stay in London that it’s hard to narrow it down in a small section like this.

If you’re not worried about money, central areas such as the West End, Westminster or Kensington are great places to stay, however if you’re more budget conscious then you might want to try Shoreditch or Camden instead.

How to get around London

While the majority of this 5 day London itinerary is doable by foot, you’ll likely still need to travel to and from your accommodation each day.

The tube (London Underground) is the cheapest and most convenient way to travel around London, with multiple lines connecting the whole of the city.

Just remember to plan your route in advance, try not to travel during rush hour on weekdays, and use your contactless card or oyster card to tap on rather than buying paper tickets.

When to visit London for this itinerary

Much of this itinerary involves walking around neighbourhoods, parks and markets, meaning the best time to visit London would be during the warmer and dryer summer months.

However, London does get particularly busy during the school holidays in peak summer months of July and August . So visiting during the fringe months of May, June and September will be your best bet.

Should I buy a London Pass?

A London pass is a ticket which you purchase in advance for a certain number of days and gets you free access to many of the city’s tourist attractions.

If you’re planning to pay for entry to many of the attractions on this London 5 days itinerary, then buying the London Pass will provide better value than buying the tickets separately.

Attractions included in the pass: The Tower of London, Globe Theatre, St Pauls Cathedral, HMS Belfast, Westminster Abbey, London Zoo, Kensington Palace, The View from The Shard and many more.

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Emily is a born and raised London girl, starting life in the north of the capital then moving down to Fulham in the southwest. She has a master’s degree in Social and Cultural Anthropology from University College London and now works full-time running this blog and as a freelance travel writer, splitting her life between London and travelling the world as a digital nomad.

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5 Days in London: An Ideal London Itinerary

June 4, 2021.

5 Days in London: Plan Your Perfect Trip 

How original…a London itinerary. If you hard core eye-rolled because no one needs to see another travel guide to London, I get it, completely. The truth is, I enjoy creating itineraries because I genuinely love putting in the effort into making them realistic in terms of suggested activities in the allotted time per day as well as location efficient. I do think that even though the standard tourist locales are included…Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Tower of London, etc., this itinerary does provide further insight to the attractions in one comprehensive post that you may not find in other materials you have read online.  5 days in London is an ideal amount of time to spend exploring one of the world’s most preeminent cities, so please read, ask questions in the comments, and provide feedback as my goal here is not just to replicate what is out there, but to create something useful for everyone who happens upon this post.

P.S. If you plan on heading to Paris too,  click here to read my  Paris Itinerary .

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Getting to London

London is one of my favorite cities to fly in and out of because it’s a major airport hub. If you are flying internationally, you will probably land in Heathrow, but if you are already in Europe, then Gatwick, Stansted, or Luton are all reliable possibilities. There is also London City which I personally have never flown into for whatever reason, but I wish I had because the airport is directly connected to a Tube network as is London Heathrow.  Gatwick, Stansted, and Heathrow all have dedicated express train services, or you can take the National Express coach or Easybus from Gatwick, Stansted or Luton. To find out exactly how to get from the airport to your accommodation, be sure to check the website of the specific airport you are flying into. The transport options are quite clear on all of the airport sites.

Read More: Best Travel Accessories for Europe

Once you arrive to central London, you can buy an Oyster card at any of the following locations .  This is the best way to navigate around the city if you did not buy a London Pass with travel included. 

Accommodation in London:

London hotels.

There are a multitude of great hotels in London ranging from mid-level to some of the most luxurious properties in the world. I tried to provide a variety of highly rated options at varying price points.  *Please note that prices listed are for high season, so if you aren’t traveling to London during the summer, you may actually be paying close to $200 less!

Where to stay in London: 

The Lanesborough hotel is one of the highest rated 5 star luxury hotels in London.  The property overlooks Hyde Park and all guests are cared for by personal butlers. Prices are over $1000 during the summer, but the hotel boasts all of the amenities that you would expect at a premiere luxury property including a fitness and health club, restaurant, afternoon tea, etc. 

Check rates and reviews on TripAdvisor | Booking.com | Hotels.com

Haymarket Hotel is a luxury rated 5 star hotel in the heart of London’s theatre district.  Prices hover around $600-650 a night.  The property only has 50 rooms, so it is more of a cozy atmosphere, and it it is walking distance to Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery.   The rooms are quite spacious for London standards and beautifully equipped.       

Hotel Indigo Kensington is a boutique hotel and a more affordable option at around $225 a night.  The property maintains stellar reviews.  Hotel Indigo is situated in a more quiet, but very convenient part of the city and is about 100 meters away from Paddington Station.    

Radisson Blu Edwardian Mercer Street Hotel is located in Covent Garden conveniently situated close to restaurants, the theatre district, and with easy access to the tube. Prices are generally around $350 a night and the property has a modern boutique feel to it.     

London Airbnbs : As a solo traveler, I chose to stay in a private room Airbnb the last time I was in London.  They are definitely more economical than hotels, but I caution you to check the amenities of the apartment.  Many of the private rooms, including the one that I stayed in, shared a bathroom with multiple guests and that was not explicitly stated in the description of the property.  If that’s no problem for you, then definitely go with an Airbnb and if it is, I still think an Airbnb is a great option, it might just be a bit more difficult to find the perfect spot.   I personally love Airbnbs because you have your own kitchen and your own space at a much lower cost.   BONUS : if you’ve never used Airbnb, get a $40 credit by clicking  here .   

Hostels in London:  I have all my specifics on London hostels in my “Best Hostels in Europe for Solo Travelers & Backpackers” post .   Click here to read .

Day 1 of 5 Days in London:

Hop On Hop Off Bus St. Paul’s Cathedral Westminster Abbey Big Ben London Eye Covent Garden

Start the day off with a Hop On Hop Off bus tour of the city. Can you get more touristy than this? Probably not. But, there are endless sights to see in London and this is the most efficient way to see them. I say that loosely though because the reviews are poor, so I feel like I should address the issues with doing a bus tour before to set your expectations. 1) If it’s a cold day, you’ll freeze because there is no heat on the bus. 2) The traffic can be rough so you may move at a snails pace and it could take 4-5 hours to get all the way around (this is more common on the blue line 3) the wait time at different stops should only be between 10-20 minutes but many people have complained that those times can be up to 45 minutes if you get there right after a bus has departed. Phew, ok. There’s the bad..now the good. It’s the best way of getting the lay of the land of London. You will see so many more sights from the bus then you would if you attempted to try and take the London Underground aka the Tube everywhere. Also, you’re on a Double Decker bus which is basically a London right of passage. In terms of which bus company to use, they are all pretty equal so I would see if any of them are offering a deal 48 hours for a 24 hour price, so that you can include the free river cruise. If you go with the Big Bus Tours  company, I recommend the Red Route because it is a live guide as opposed to strictly audio and suggest staying on the bus almost the entirety of the route. I would attempt to mitigate issue #3 by only getting off once at St. Paul’s Cathedral if you wish to visit inside, grabbing some lunch nearby, and then not getting off the bus again until your final stop in Westminster.

Your next stop is church! No, that wasn’t some lame attempt at a joke. You really are going to church. Christian, Catholic, Jewish, Muslim, Aethiest, Buddhist…it doesn’t matter. Not only will you get to visit Westminster Abbey for free and skip the lines, but you will get to see the place in all it’s glory. There is no better time to visit; I am not sure why everyone doesn’t come for services. Check the schedule online for times, but Choral Evensong is 5:00PM on weekdays. If you have some time to kill before, make sure to check out Big Ben and Parliament or do so after should you be pressed for time. Afterward, head to the London Eye for a sunset ride. Make sure you coordinate with the sunset times for the day which will obviously vary throughout the year. The Champagne Experience is a nice added touch and includes a FastTrack pass to the front of the line and less people in your capsule for only 12 pounds more than the standard ticket price. It is a somewhat frivolous purchase, but if this is your vacation and you’ve got some money to spend, then I think it’s well worth it. Take the tube to Covent Garden for dinner. There are tons of great restaurants, so I would recommend using TripAdvisor to choose a spot depending on what kind of food you are in the mood for. Just maybe don’t choose the Shed at Dulwich 🙂

Day 2 of 5 Days in London:

Tower of London Tower Bridge  River cruise on the Thames or Sky Garden Borough Market Globe Theatre

We are starting off the day with one of the major trip highlights, the Tower of London! Even you non-museum people will enjoy because the history of the nobility, especially King Henry VIII, is just fascinating (if you haven’t read The Other Boleyn Girl yet then you’re missing out), the Beefeaters are a trip, and the crown jewels are unbelievable to see up close and personal. You will read everywhere to get here early, and because of this everyone will get here early. It does make sense though to do the Tower of London first thing, so even if you’re a bit lazier on the other days, really commit to beating the crowds and arriving before the Tower opens. You should definitely skip the audio guide and plan on taking the one hour Beefeater tour because the guides are typically very personable and informative and it doesn’t cost any additional money on top of the ticket price. The Tower of London opens at 9, so I would head straight to the crown jewels first and then do the 10:00 Beefeater tour. After a couple of hours at the Tower, you could either head out to the Sky Garden, a glass dome with public gardens and observation decks, for lunch and a free view of London or take a river cruise on the Thames. The river cruise is free within the 24 hours that you purchased the Big Bus tour; however, you may be cutting it close here in terms of timing. I would suggest a roundtrip cruise as you ultimately want to end up back near the Tower of London and not in Westminster.

Whichever activity you choose, you will then want to walk across the Tower Bridge to the other side of the river. There is a glass floor exhibit and museum that you can visit too. While the exhibit is supposed to be good, how many viewpoints do you actually want to see? I think you get the idea after the first three. Make sure you wait to watch the drawbridge raised up to let a ship pass and then go back down again as it’s quite entertaining to watch. Also, the Tower Bridge is not the London Bridge. It’s a common tourist confusion because we are all so familiar with the song. However, the London Bridge is actually quite ugly…not falling down decrepit ugly, but just your standard industrial bridge.

From here, you need to visit Borough Market, a food lover’s heaven. Take a quick culinary journey around the world while perusing the market. Once you have sufficiently browsed the different stalls, choose from the plethora of cuisine options or perhaps buy one small item at multiple shops. Keep in mind that the full market is in operation 10-5 on Wednesday to Saturday with limited traders open Monday and Tuesday. At this point, you will want to make your way to Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre . There are guided tours of the place, but if you come to London in the summer, I highly recommend buying tickets (in advance of course) to see a show in the open air reconstructed theatre! It’s an intimate setting where the focus is on the acting and a major throwback to high school Shakespeare. Try and get tickets for the front row of the middle gallery if you can as well as a seat cushion for you bum, as they would say in Britain.

As you head back to your accommodation for the evening, or maybe to a pub for a pint, be sure to check out the Millennium Bridge, built in 2000 and famous for it’s cameo in Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince. If the weather is nice, you could walk your stiff theatre legs across or simply admire the architecture and tube/uber your way back.

Day 3 of 5 Days in London:

Harry Potter Studio Tour or Other Day Trip Camden Market

If you have any sort of affinity for Harry Potter whatsoever, then a trip to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour is necessary just for the butterbeer alone! Okay…I know it’s a polarizing beverage, you either love it or hate it, but I thought it was phenom. And, of course, the studio tour is fantastic. You get to walk into the actual Great Hall and admire Hermione’s Yule Ball dress and see the cupboard under the stairs and I don’t want to give too much away so just head my advice and visit. The studios are a little ways outside of London in Leavesden; you take the express train from London Euston in London to Watford Junction (about a 20 minute ride). You can use your Oyster Card to pay for the train. From there, you will hop on a shuttle bus which is 2.50 cash round trip and you’ll be taken directly to the studios. It is very easy to spend a solid 5-6 hours on the tour, especially if you get an audio guide which you definitely should do. I went around 10:30 and it was super packed, so I am thinking it makes sense to go first thing or a little later in the day if you don’t have to be back in the city by a certain time as it seemed to clear out in the afternoon. Once you’re back in Central London, head to Camden Town for its famed market with over 1000 shops and stalls selling a variety of goods and food. There’s a churreria, Dutch nutella pancakes, halloumi fries, truffle mac and cheese…basically anything you could ever want.

If a day trip to the Warner Brothers Studios doesn’t appeal to you, then there are a plethora of other options including a trip to Oxford, Greenwich, Windsor Castle, etc.

Day 4 of 5 Days in London:

Buckingham Palace Churchill War Rooms   or   Harrods Trafalgar Square Piccadilly Circus Afternoon Tea at Sketch National Gallery West End Show 

The Buckingham Palace situation broken down: The State Rooms in the Palace are open for about 10 weeks in the summer, usually during August and September. If you’re in town then, make sure you go. If you aren’t visiting during that time frame, plan on seeing the changing of the guard instead. The schedule for this isn’t exactly cut and dry, so be sure to check the website to confirm which dates this will be taking place. Typically, the changing of the guards starts around 11, but I would get there much earlier than that to grab a spot and get a feel for the area and where you want to stand to watch. The ceremony starts with a procession at St. James Palace that slowly moves down the mall and toward Buckingham Palace so you can watch anywhere along this path.

If you want your trip to be more museum forward, I would recommend visiting the Churchill War Rooms at this point. This is the underground headquarters of British High Command during World War II and just a 10 minute walk from Buckingham Palace. However, if you max out on museums after one, maybe two, (no judgment I totally fall into this category), then I would recommend walking to Harrods Department Store and checking out the scene instead. My favorite parts were the perfume department and of course, the food hall. Grab a small bite to eat to tide you over for an English classic later in the day.

By now it will be early afternoon, and the perfect time to head toward central London, more specifically Trafalgar Square and Piccadilly Circus. You’ll want to spend some time just walking around the area, people watching, and popping into shops. The hustle and bustle of the area is a lot to take in but in the best way possible. After some time spent meandering, you will hopefully head to your previously-made reservation at one of London’s trendiest afternoon tea spots, Sketch, for the quintessential British tea time experience. If you haven’t seen this place on Instagram, you’re probably living under a rock, but we’ll forgive you; and, if for some reason, you are ardently against tea, the National Gallery, which houses the national collection of paintings in the Western European tradition from the 13th to 19th centuries, is right behind Trafalgar Square. It’s also free!

Tonight would be an excellent night to see a show in the West End. If you’re a Broadway buff like me, you probably have a good idea of what you would like to see. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is on the top of my list and of course, Hamilton but I’ve seen it twice already because it’s so freakin incredible.   Click here to read up on everything you need to know before you see the show. Otherwise, I would recommend visiting the TKTS store in Leicester Square for some great deals on tickets. You can also enter the lottery for any specific shows by visiting the musical’s homepage and reading directions on how to enter. Shows typically start around 7:30/7:45 PM. After the show, you may be hungry for some late night dinner before heading back for the evening.

Day 5 of 5 Days in London

Notting Hill Portobello Road market Hyde Park Kensington Palace

British Museum or Up at the O2

Since the rest of the 5 days in London have been packed with endless sightseeing, it is nice to have the last day to be slightly more relaxed. Today begins with a walk through of Hyde Park. Here you can rent a boat, ride a bike, buy an ice cream treat while sitting in the gardens, and stop at the Princess Diana memorial fountain. You can cross Serpentine Lake to Kensington Palace which is directly behind the park. If you have an interest in seeing where the Royal Family resides, I would recommend booking a ticket to visit. Continue walking in that same direction to visit Portobello Road Market and have some lunch. On Saturdays especially, the market is filled with various antique shops which is what makes this place so authentic and unlike the other street markets. Continue on to Notting Hill for a stroll along the charming neighborhood roads and a requisite photography sesh.

The end of your 5 days in London is in sight, so at this point, it would make sense to visit the one London attraction you are FOMO-ing over, have a relaxed evening perhaps some souvenir shopping and dinner, or maybe even taking the Eurostar to Paris for the next leg of your trip! Some highlights that I did not include in this London itinerary, but would be more than worthwhile to visit are the British Museum or Up at the O2 where you trek across the roof of the world’s most popular entertainment venue. If you’re a Beatles fan, there is always the iconic “Abbey Road” photo to take or you could go to King’s Cross station to get your Platform 9 and 3/4 shot.

PSA: If you are in London on a Sunday, make time to hit the pub for a Sunday Roast. It was one of the highlights of my trip to London and every subsequent trip, I plan my schedule around making sure that I am there on a Sunday.

Mathematics & the London Pass

I am bad at math.  This is not a strong suit of mine.  So major disclaimer, if this is inaccurate, I apologize and I tried my best.  Also, London’s attractions have this peak time thing where prices differ based on day of the week and time of day…confusing. Here are the APPROXIMATE online prices for the activities that were discuss in this itinerary.  According to my calculations, the London Pass is no doubt a good deal, but is limiting in the sense that if you buy the 3 day pass (which is the only one I would even consider), you have to finagle your itinerary to fit all of the paid excursions into those 3 days, rain or shine, mosquito bites, or blisters…my usual trip ailments.  I didn’t get the London sightseeing pass, and probably spent a similar amount of money with more limited sights, but I was able to see the attractions at my leisure.  Personally, the attractions on this list that I would 100% pay to see (remember I am not a huge fan of museums) are the following: a bus tour, London Eye Champagne Experience, River Cruise (but only if it was included with the bus tour), Tower of London, Harry Potter Studio Tour, and Up at the O2.  I would pay to see a show at the Globe as well as a show in the West End, and if I had more than 5 days in London, I think the Churchill War Rooms would actually be fascinating to see.      

A Rough Idea of Pricing for 1 Adult at the following London Attractions: 

Big Bus Tour: 30 pounds

St. Paul’s: 16 pounds 

London Eye Champagne Experience: 36.90 pounds

Tower of London: 22.70 pounds

River Cruise: 15.25 pounds for roundtrip

Globe Theatre: 15 pounds for tour; but see a show for 25-50 pounds

Warner Bros. Studio Tour: 40 pounds (not included in London sightseeing pass)

Churchill War Rooms: 18.90 pounds

West End Show: varies greatly

Kensington Palace: 16-19.50 pounds

British Museum free but special exhibit cost $

Up at the O2: Sunset Climb is 36 pounds (not included in London sightseeing pass)

Have you spent 5 days in London?  Please share your thoughts on this London itinerary below or help answer any comments that may arise! 

Are you on Pinterest ? Save 5 Days in London: An Ideal London Itinerary for later!

Looking to plan more details for your upcoming trip?  Check out some of my other posts! 

Paris Itinerary: 3 Days in Paris + Day Trips to Versailles and Giverny

How to Stay in a Castle Hotel in Britain

Transportation in Europe: Best Methods for 15 Countries 

Spain Itinerary: 10 Days in Barcelona & Madrid

Greece: An Ideal 10-Day Itinerary

Croatia: An Ideal 10-Day Itinerary

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Hi! I’m planning a trip to London and am curious your thoughts on the last day. I was thinking to visit the British Museum first thing when they open on a Saturday and follow their three hour suggested tour. Then go to Portobello Road for flea market shopping. I thought we could avoid heavier crowds in the museum that way. I know we’d be sacrificing prime time at the market but I think I’d rather have a quieter museum visit. Am I accurate in my assumptions or wrong? Thanks!

Hey there 🙂 I think that plan makes a lot of sense, but I would also suggest keeping your schedule tentative, so you can change course if needed. By your last day, you’ll have a better idea of what you want to fit in and how you want to prioritize. Luckily, neither of these activities require advance tickets, although I would take some time to plan out what you would like to see in the British Museum –3 hour suggested tour would be great! — since it is so massive. Hope that helps! Jennifer

This is such a great itinerary! I appreciate you including the information about the Harry Potter tour. My family is going in a few months. My oldest and I have been so we were looking for options that weren’t the regular touristy stops. Most of your list I had put down so this is great helping with grouping and making sense of how we can make them all fit. Thanks! If you do one for Dublin and Edinburgh, let me know. 🙂

Thank you so much! Hope you had a fabulous trip 🙂

Thank you so much for the kind words! I’ll be heading to Edinburgh this summer for the first time, so unfortunately I can’t be too much help with that. Eventually, I will get around to doing a Dublin one too. If you have any specific questions, please feel free to reach out again! Have a wonderful trip with the family 🙂

Thank you Jennifer for sharing the plan, I’m visiting London this Friday for 5 days and I’m almost going to follow the same as your plan! i just needed to move few attraction like visiting London Eye to Day 2, since I couldn’t get ticket during sunset session and added few more places in different days… will share my feedback once I’m back 🙂

Awesome information! I’m planning a trip for next June and this is so helpful. We are HP fans so it was nice to see that as part of the itinerary. We will have 5 days. I know my brother in law wants to see Stonehenge. If we had to drop something off to make that happen what would you suggest? We aren’t tea drinkers (or alcohol) so don’t need time out for that. How best to get out to Stonehenge and how much time would we need? Thanks so much!!

Gotta say, this is the closest to the type of itinerary and things I want to see I have found. Thank you so much for organizing them in the way it makes most “route sense”. We will have 7 days in London and these 5 days will pack the most punch while leaving time for a day trip and another to just tramp around willy-nilly!

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The ultimate 5 day London itinerary: for every kind of traveller

Are you trying to see London in 5 days? Well this guide is for you! We love London, and will basically use any excuse to visit for whatever period of time. London is one of those places that it doesn’t matter how long you are there for you will always find something incredible to do. We have put together a 5 day London itinerary so that you can plan your own short break to this incredible city. And if 5 days in London isn’t enough have a look at our 1 week London itinerary instead.

London in 5 days – handy factsheet

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If you are trying to see London in 5 days here is a handy factsheet to help you get by.

Country : England

Currency : Pound Sterling/ GBP/£

Languages spoken: English

London is the capital of England and the United Kingdom. It’s also the political, economic, and cultural centre of the country.

The population of London is nearly 9 million. But this is the population for Greater London. Surprisingly the city of London itself is only 1.2 square miles with a population of around 9000 people.

London is an incredibly diverse city with over 300 languages being spoken. The top languages spoken after English are Polish, Turkish, Bengali, French, and Punjabi.

So before you start planning your trip you might be wondering why you should spend 5 days in London? In our opinion London has a little something for everyone. It is such a historic and famous city that you really do need to visit. Whether you are a history fan, or want to taste some world class food, or even visit quirky neighbourhoods you will find something in London.

5 days in London will give you a great opportunity to explore the city without breaking the bank. It’s also a good amount of time to delve a little deeper into certain neighbourhoods and get to know the real London.

If you are still wondering if London is worth visiting here is a useful guide.

There are a number of ways to arrive for your 5 days in London. Here are some of the most common ones, and how to get into Central London from each one.

If you are arriving from within the UK chances are your train will arrive at one of the below stations.

• King’s Cross

Each station is centrally located and within walking distance to a Tube Station, to help you get to your final destination.

If you are arriving from Europe via the Eurostar your arrival station will be London St Pancras International. The station is centrally located or you can get The Tube nearby to your destination.

Heathrow Airport

If you are arriving for your 5 days in London by plane, chances are you will be flying in to Heathrow. Heathrow is the UK’s busiest airport with over 80 million passengers transiting through every year. It is also very well connected if you are looking at getting into central London.

The quickest way is to get the Heathrow Express , which operates every 15 minutes between Heathrow and Paddington Station. The train trip takes 15 minutes

You can also get the Tube, which is cheaper than the airport express but it does take quite a bit longer, (under 1 hour). Tubes depart every 10 minutes from any of the airport terminals.

Gatwick Airport

Another popular London airport is Gatwick. The quickest and easiest way to get from Gatwick to London is via the Gatwick Express. Total travel time is in the region of 30 minutes and tickets cost under £20 each way, especially if you purchase your tickets online in advance. The train terminates at Victoria Station and there are several Tube lines you can get from here.

A 5 day London itinerary is going to involve a lot of travel around the city. Once you are in London the easiest way to get around is via the Tube. You should purchase an Oyster card and top up with the required credit. Alternatively you can download the app, or use your debit/credit card to tap in and out of stations. For more information on this we recommend having a look at the  Transport for Greater London website .

Public transport is brilliant in London and most major attractions can be accessed by Tube, but admittedly it can get tricky when signal failures or planned engineering works strike. It can look daunting at first but study the Tube map, and once you know how the stations connect you will be commuting like a pro in no time. Google maps is also a Godsend and you can easily navigate your way around on the Tube and the buses with it. 

We would probably recommend avoiding paying for taxis in London as they can be really expensive, especially if you get stuck in peak hour traffic.

London has accommodation to suit every budget. From your hostel dorms, to your high end luxury hotels. We have found some excellent deals at  hotels.com  over the years so we do recommend starting there.

One thing to keep in mind, the closer to Central London the more expensive your accommodation will be. The rooms will also be a lot smaller with limited space for luggage.

On our last trip we decided to stay at the  Assembly Hotel  which was located a couple minutes from Leicester Square tube station – so pretty central. The hotel was clean and comfortable, with modern rooms. The only downside was that there was no TV or coffee/tea making facilities in the room. This can be standard in London and to be honest who wants to sit inside and watch TV when you are in London anyway? 

You might be wondering when is the best time to plan your 5 days in London . Well London really is one of those cities that can be enjoyed year round. Here is our seasonal breakdown on the best time to plan your 5 day London itinerary.

Winter (December – February) 

Winter in London is great because there are way less tourists. So you won’t have the queue for hours to visit the big attractions. It does get cold and rainy in winter, though so you will want to limit your time outdoors. If you want to take advantage of the museums and the galleries then this is a good time to go. In December there are a number of Christmas markets to enjoy as well as ice skating rinks, in preparation for the holidays. 

Spring (March-May)

Spring is probably the best time to plan your 5 day London itinerary in our opinion. The weather is mild, and whilst it is busy with tourists, it isn’t as chaotic as the summer months. Spring is also a nice time to enjoy walking through the parks with the daffodils in bloom. 

Summer (June – August)

Summer is peak tourist season. The weather is at its best, and there are a number of summer events that take place in the city. A lot of schools are finished for summer holidays so there are a lot of families around, and a lot of activities for kids and adults alike. If you visit in summer make sure that you book things like accommodation and attractions well in advance. It can get really warm in London over summer, so remember this particularly as travelling on the tube squashed up against other commuters in 30 degree heat is not fun. 

Autumn (September – November)

Autumn is another good time to book your 5 days in London. The weather starts to cool, but hasn’t quite reached the cold temperatures of winter. It also isn’t as busy as the summer months with tourists. 

Top things to do during your 5 days in London

London is one of those incredible cities where there is so much to see and do. Here are some of our top recommendations of things to add to your 5 day London itinerary. This list is by no means exhaustive, but these are the highlights.

Westminster is one of my favourite parts of London. You have the Houses of Parliament to admire, along with Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and Westminster Bridge. And that is only the start. It is perfect for first time visitors to London and gives you a real taste of the city.

For one of the best views over London, you should head to the London Eye. It costs about £25 although if you get advance tickets this can be cheaper. You can  visit their website  for further information. It takes about 30 minutes to do a full rotation and you really do get an amazing view of London.

If you are spending 5 days in London you should try and visit at least one of the many museums or galleries in the city. From the Natural History Museum filled with dinosaur bones, to the National Gallery that houses over 2000 paintings there really is something for everyone.

The Palace is the official headquarters and residence of the British Royal Family. If you are a fan of royalty then make sure you add this to your 5 day London itinerary, even though it does get really busy with tourists. One of the most amazing things to witness is the changing of the guards. 

Another must for your 5 days in London has to be a visit to one of the most photographed public squares in the city. Trafalgar Square was built to commemorate the Battle of Trafalgar that took place in 1805. These days it is swarming with tourists all trying to get those iconic shots of the fountains and the lions.

One of the things London is famous for has to the the green spaces.

Hyde Park is probably London’s most famous park, spanning 350 acres, there is a lot to see and do in the grounds.Some of the more popular areas have to be speakers corner, a place where to this day people gather to debate and speak to the masses. Famous speakers are George Orwell and Karl Marx.There is also a large lake where in the summer months you can swim, or rent a paddle boat in the London sun.

The cathedral  is one of the most famous sights in London and has been the location for a number of Royal weddings and funerals, much like Westminster Abbey. The interior is worth a look, and if you are brave enough you can actually climb to the viewing platform for some incredible sights over London.

There are a number of neighbourhoods that you have to explore during your 5 days in London. If you are into music then Camden is a must, whilst Instagrammers will enjoy the streets of Notting Hill or Chelsea.

Another of London’s most famous monuments that often gets confused with London Bridge, is Tower Bridge. The bridge was completed in 1894 which makes it nearly 123 years old. You can pay for entry into the Tower Bridge Exhibition, and more information can be found  here .

Located next to Tower Bridge is the  Tower of London  a historic castle founded in 1066. If you are into history this is a fascinating place to visit as you get a full understanding of the history of the castle. This includes its time as a Royal residence and even a prison.

You might be wondering if it is possible to see London in 5 days. We think this is a good amount of time to spend in London. It allows you to see the main tourist attractions, visit some of the neighbourhoods, eat some great food, and experience some of the nightlife in the city if you so wish.

Here is a sample 5 day London itinerary to give you a chance to explore London’s top sights as well as some of its incredible neighbourhoods.

Spend the morning exploring Westminster and the South Bank and take a ride on the London Eye.

Afterwards head to Westminster Abbey before grabbing lunch at a nearby pub.

Then make your way to Trafalgar Square and get some photos with the lions. When you are done make sure you spend some time at the National Gallery.

For dinner there is a great pub called the Admiralty that serves the most amazing selection of pies.

Start the morning with a visit to the Tower of London. You will probably spend a good few hours here taking you to the afternoon. Afterwards walk towards Tower Bridge to see it up close. Explore the surrounding area and see if you can find the girl with the dolphin statue. Grab some lunch here and some drinks with a view. 

In the afternoon do a Thames river cruise (these depart around Tower Bridge or near Westminster), and in the evening try and catch a show in London’s West End.

On day 3 of your 5 day London itinerary we recommend a visit to Buckingham Palace. Afterwards check out St James’ Park before making your way to the Natural History Museum in the afternoon. 

In the evening head to Covent Garden for dinner and do visit Neals Yard which is one of the hidden gems of London. 

Head to St Pauls Cathedral, and if you are both brave and fit enough you can climb to the top and enjoy the views of London. Afterwards cross the Millennium Bridge and make your way to the Tate Modern. 

In the afternoon take a trip to Chelsea and explore the neighbourhood and get some photos of those incredible pastel houses. Checkout Piccadilly Circus, and Oxford Street in the evening. 

In the morning explore one of London’s neighbourhoods like Soho or Camden (or both) and grab some lunch here.

In the evening head to Harrods to see it all lit up and explore the food hall. If you are feeling flashy grab some dinner here, otherwise grab something cheaper in the area.

Explore some the incredible museums the city has to offer in the morning such as the Natural History Museum or the National Gallery.

Grab some lunch and head over to Speakers Corner in Hyde Park to make the most of the outdoors.

In the evening do a Jack the Ripper Tour and the learn the history of the famous murders that happened in the East End of London in the late 19th Century.

Start the day with a visit to Buckingham Palace and watch the Changing of the Guard. You can then take a stroll in the beautiful St James’ Park before heading towards Trafalgar Square.

After some lunch make your way to St Paul’s Cathedral and climb to the top for sensational views over the city. Explore one of the London neighbourhoods such as Covent Garden in the evening.

Start the day with a visit to the Churchill War Rooms, to see where the Government ran the country during WW2.

Then make your way towards Westminster Abbey to do a tour. Once you are finished make sure you walk past the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben before hopping on the Tube towards the HMS Belfast. This is the last remaining warship of its kind and gives you the opportunity to see what life was like for sailors aboard.

On day 4 of your 5 days in London for the history buff, start the day at the Tower of London. Once you have spent the morning exploring head over to Tower Bridge to the exhibition. There are several places to eat around here as well so make sure you grab some lunch in the area.

In the afternoon hop on a Thames cruise to learn about the history of the city from the water.

In the morning visit one of London’s historical cemeteries such as Nunhead or Highgate (or both!). Take some time to explore the neighbourhood and then head to the Imperial War Museum in the afternoon.

If you are wanting to spend your 5 days in London hunting down some of the most photogenic places in the city, this sample itinerary is for you.

Start the day with your classic London pictures around Westminster and South Bank. Take a ride on the London Eye for optimal views of the city.

In the afternoon explore Camden and get some quirky shots of the area. Don’t forget to stop off at Warren Mews before arriving in Camden, to get some classic Mews House pictures.

Spend the morning in Chelsea to see the colourful terrace houses and enjoy the neighbourhood, and then head to Notting Hill in the afternoon. Don’t forget to visit Peggy Porschen cakes for some beautiful pictures.

In the evening visit the Churchill Arms for photos and a few drinks.

In the morning head to Leadenhall Market and grab some breakfast in the area. Afterwards visit St Dunstan in the East for some reflection and photos. Visit Hyde Park in the afternoon before heading to Covent Garden in the late afternoon.

Start the morning at the Tower of London and Tower Bridge and get some photos around this area. Make sure you look for the Girl with the Dolphin statue.

In the afternoon head over to the Natural History Museum, and then St Paul’s Cathedral.

On the final of your 5 day London itinerary we recommend starting the morning at Piccadilly Circus to capture the hustle and bustle of London. In the afternoon head to one of London’s historical cemeteries like Nunhead or Highgate. Spend the evening in Shoreditch for food and drinks.

If you fancy yourself a bit of a shopper here is the perfect 5 day London itinerary for you.

Start your 5 day London itinerary by exploring Oxford Street, one of London’s most famous streets. You will find a lot of high street stores here including Primark and Lush. There are also a number of department stores like House of Fraser to spend your money.

In the afternoon devote some time to Regent Street, which includes mid range stores. A personal favourite and iconic London institution has to be Hamley’s so make sure you visit.

For your second day have a look at some of the luxury stores on Bond Street, and in Mayfair. Typical stores include Louis Vuitton and Hermes. Take some time to go to the nearby Selfridges, and grab some lunch.

In the afternoon head to Carnaby to explore some of the more boutique stores make sure you pop into Dr. Martens and Fred Perry for some classic British brands.

Spend the morning in Covent Garden, particularly St Martins Courtyard for all your shopping needs. Try and find the hidden Neals Yard for shopping, coffee, and photos.

In the afternoon stop off at Peggy Porschen cakes, before making your way to Chelsea. Make some tine to see the colourful houses as well as Kings Road for shopping.

Start the day in Camden and take a look around some of the quirky shops and market stalls in the area. Grab some lunch in the area and make sure you also have some drinks at one of the alternative pubs like the World’s End.

In the afternoon explore Central London, including One New Change just across from St Pauls Cathedral. Afterwards take a visit to Harrods for dinner, drinks, and more shopping.

Start the day getting on the Tube to White City, and explore the Westfield Shopping Centre. In the afternoon make your way to Greenwich to shop at an Outlet Store and the local markets.

London can be really expensive so if you are wanting to see the sights but cheaply here are our suggestions of free or cheap things to do.

Start your 5 day London itinerary in South Bank, and sit an enjoy the views. Take a walk past the Houses of Parliament to Trafalgar Square, and spend the rest of the morning in the National Gallery.

In the afternoon head over to Buckingham Palace and then enjoy some time in St James’ Park. Afterwards visit Hyde Park for an afternoon stroll in the outdoors.

This is a good day to explore Camden. Enjoy the markets, and grab some street food for lunch. Make sure you sit and enjoy one of the pubs and soak in the atmosphere.

On day 3 of your 5 day London itinerary, we recommend making your way to the Sky Garden. You do need to make sure that you book in advance, but it is free, and you get some incredible views over London.

In the afternoon take a walk over Tower Bridge and admire the sights along the way. In the evening head to Notting Hill and explore the multicultural neighbourhood.

Visit Leadenhall Market and then take a walk down to St Dunstan in the East for some quiet reflection. Then head over to St Paul’s Cathedral before making your way to the Tate Modern to admire the art.

In the late afternoon explore Covent Garden and grab some food at one of the cafes.

On your last day in London why not spend the day at some of the cities best museums. We highly recommend the Natural History Museum, and the British Museum to name a few.

If you just like exploring and immersing yourself in neighbourhoods here is a 5 day London itinerary that will give you a taste of some of our favourite areas to explore.

Spend the day exploring Westminster and Southbank. There are a number of touristy things to do like the London Eye, or a Thames Cruise.

In the afternoon why not explore the multi cultural neighbourhood of Notting Hill. Also make sure you visit the Churchill Arms.

We highly recommend making time to explore Shoreditch, one of the hippest neighbourhoods in London. There are some great shopping opportunities as well as food and drink places.

In the afternoon head over to Covent Garden for some exploring. You can visit the nearby Transport Museum or do some shopping. Make sure you visit Neals Yard for some colourful photo opportunities. Covent Garden is a great place for an evening of food and drink.

On day 3 we recommend soaking in the atmosphere of the very quirky and alternative Camden. Visit the markets, or do a spot of shopping at some of the alternative fashion shops. There are also a number of pubs in the area that we highly recommend like the World’s End.

Spend the day exploring South Kensington and the museums in the area. It is also a stone’s throw from Hyde Park which is perfect for a picnic or an afternoon stroll.

Explore Leicester Square and Soho in the heart of the West End. Try and catch an afternoon matinee as well.

If you are looking for some quirky things to do when visiting London in 5 days, here are our top suggestions.

THE BARBICAN CONSERVATORY

One of the quirkier things to add to your 5 day London itinerary, has to be the Barbican Conservatory. It’s a garden/ oasis that is completely indoors. It’s located in the Barbican Estate and it was originally designed to hide the massive fly tower. It started with a few plants and things escalated quickly into the amazing conservatory we see today.

It is free to visit but you must book your space in advance.

VISIT THE COLOURFUL HOUSES IN CHELSEA

One thing that I love in London is that all the neighbourhoods have completely different personalities. If you do get the chance one of the cool things to do during your 5 day London itinerary is to visit Byswater Street.

It is one of the most colourful streets in Chelsea. In order to get here you will need to get the District Line to Sloane Square. It is then about a 10 minute walk to Byswater Street. The good thing is that Chelsea is so pretty that you will probably find a lot of beautiful spaces to photograph on the walk.

GOD’S OWN JUNKYARD

One of the quirkier things in London in 5 days is visit God’s Own Junkyard. It’s basically a collection of neon signs, and random bits from movie sets, and old school nightclubs. It is only open on the weekend though so you will need to plan accordingly.

VISIT A CEMETERY

I know that it might sound weird having a cemetery in the list of things to add to your 5 day London itinerary. But there are some really quirky and old cemeteries in teh city that you can explore. Nunhead Cemetery is really beautiful for example. The graves are incredibly old and overgrown in parts, and it’s sort of this cool symbol of rebirth.

If you have a good camera, there is an excellent photo spot, where you can get an incredible shot of St Paul’s cathedral.

NEAL’S YARD

Hidden down a back lane in Covent Garden is the very colourful courtyard known as Neal’s Yard. You will need to get off the Tube at Covent Garden station and it is a short walk from here.

ST DUNSTAN-IN-THE-EAST

This is a bit of a hidden gem to discover during your 5 day London itinerary. It is a peaceful and well maintained garden and it really is perfect for taking photos. Here you will get to see the bombed ruins of a medieval church that are overrun by perfectly manicured wall climbers. You can get the tube to Monument station and it is about 5 minutes walk from here.

If you are visiting London in 5 days chances are it is going to rain at some point during your trip. So here are some ideas for the best things to do in London when it rains.

THE SKY GARDEN

Located on the 43rd floor of the Walkie Talkie building in London the Sky Garden is one of the prettier places to visit in the city. You get panoramic views over London and get to chill out in the indoor garden area. And the best thing is you get complete shelter from the rain!

VISIT THE MUSEUMS

As mentioned earlier in this article, there are so many museums in London that you can visit. You’ve got a lot of free ones likes the National Gallery, and the Natural History Museum, but there are also some that you can pay for entry. The Churchill War Rooms is one of our favourites, and you get to see where Churchill and his strategists were based during WWII.

HAVE AFTERNOON TEA

Afternoon tea is a very English thing to do. And there are so many incredible places to do this in London. Two of our favourites that are Selfridges or Peggy Porschen . The Peggy Porschen Cake shop in Belgravia is an Instagram favourite in London. To get here you will need to go to Victoria Station and it is about a 10 minute walk from there.

GO TO THE PUB

Another quintessentially British thing to do, is head to the pub. In fact you cannot see London in 5 days without a visit to a traditional boozer. And the best thing is they provide excellent shelter from the rain!

There are so many to choose from but our favourite is the Churchill Arms. You will know you are in the right place once you see the baskets of flowers that decorate the pub.

Spring is the best time to visit as all the flowers are in bloom. That being said they also go all out at Christmas as well. The closest station is Notting Hill Gate. The pub is about a 4 minute walk from the station.

If you are visiting London with kids, here are some of the top things to add to your 5 day London itinerary.

SEA LIFE LONDON

Located in Southbank just by the London Eye you will find the Sea Life London aquarium. This is a popular attraction to add to your 5 days in London particularly if you are visiting with kids.

You can explore all things underwater here, including spotting seahorses, piranhas, sharks and much more. Make sure you get your tickets in advance to avoid missing out.

MADAM TUSSAUDS

If you are seeing London in 5 days with kids, Madam Tussauds is another top attraction. You can get your photo taken with wax royalty, as well as celebrities and sports stars. Plus there is also the Marvel Universe 4D experience which is great for kids.

SEE A MUSICAL

Musicals aren’t just for adults in London. There are plenty of kid friendly shows like the Lion King, and Wicked to name a few. Shows change all the time, but there is always something kid friendly showing in London.

SCIENCE MUSEUM

The museums in general are great for kids, but one of our favourites is the Science Museum. It’s incredibly interactive, and the best part is entry is free!

DISCOVER CHILDREN’S STORY CENTRE

Discover Children’s Story Centre is great for kids aged between 0-11. Kids can follow a story trail and checkout the story garden. It’s located in Stratford and you can get to the Tube to Stratford Station and walk from here.

DIANA PRINCESS OF WALES MEMORIAL PLAYGROUND

This is another great activity to add to your 5 day London itinerary. It’s located in Hyde Park, and is basically a large playground that includes a pirate ship. It’s definitely a must, particularly if you are exploring Hyde Park.

LONDON DUNGEON

The London Dungeon is probably better suited to older kids. I say this as a 30 something year old who screams every time she visits!

It’s an interactive and fun way to learn all about the gory history of London including Jack the Ripper, and Sweeny Todd. It can be a bit gory and you do have actors jumping out at you which is why it’s not great for really little ones.

IFS CLOUD CABLE CAR

You cannot do London in 5 days without gliding above the Thames in the IFS Cloud Cable Car. It goes from the Greenwich Peninsula to the Royal Docks, and takes about 10 minutes.

Tickets cost £5 for a single trip for an adult, and £2.50 for kids.

HOP ON HOP OFF BUS TOUR

Personally this is one of my favourite things to do in London because you can literally just sit there and watch the world go by. It’s a fun activity to do with kids, especially on a nice day when you get a seat on the open top part of the bus. You will get to learn all about the history of London as you pass the sights.

If you are trying to do London in 5 days, here are our top tips for romantic activities.

RENT A PADDLE BOAT IN HYDE PARK

Strolling through London’s Hyde Park is quite romantic anyway, but one of our favourite things to do is to rent a paddle boat . You can then float around on the idyllic Serpentine, and enjoy the scenery.

You can do so daily between April to October, and at other times of year it will be weather dependant.

RENT A PRIVATE POD ON THE LONDON EYE

For something super romantic, you can actually rent a private pod on the London Eye. Cupid’s Pod is perfect for couples, as you get champagne, chocolates, and your own private host.

WINE AND CHEESE AT GORDON’S

Gordon’s wine bar is a must when seeing London in 5 days. It’s the oldest wine bar in London, and a real hidden gem. It’s close to both the Southbank and Trafalgar Square, and there is both indoor and outdoor seating. Inside is very atmospheric, and perfect to cosy up in the winter months.

PICNIC AT HYDE PARK

When the weather is nice we highly recommend going for a romantic picnic at Hyde Park. You can pick up some bread and cheese from a nearby supermarket and enjoy it in the beautiful greenery of the park.

LONDON IN 5 DAYS – FREE ACTIVITIES

London might be expensive, but there are actually so many free activities to fit into your 5 day London itinerary. Here are some of the best.

We have mentioned this before but London has some world class museums. And the best thing is a lot of them are free. Some of the best free museums that you can visit in London are:

• Natural History Museum
• Imperial War Museum
• National Gallery
• The British Museum
• Science Museum
• National Maritime Museum
• Victoria and Albert Museum
• Tate Modern

A lot of these museums will ask for a voluntary donation upon entry, but you really do not have to pay for entry at all. Just walk straight in and enjoy the exhibits.

CHANGING OF THE GUARD

One of the top things to add to your 5 day London itinerary has to be to see the Changing of the Guard. It’s a lot of pomp and ceremony and it is completely free.

It’s essentially a ceremony when the King’s Guards change shifts. It’s really interesting to see and attracts a lot of visitors.

BARBICAN CONSERVATORY AND LONDON SKY GARDEN

I’ve already mentioned both these activities in the article already, so I won’t go into detail, but just a reminder both of these activities are completely free. You do need to reserve a timed place in advance though to make sure you can get in.

LEADENHALL MARKET

Leadenhall Market is another free thing to add to your 5 day London itinerary. It’s also popular among Harry Potter fans as you may recognise it from the films.

It’s free to walk around, but obviously if you buy anything or have a drink or coffee, you will need to pay.

I know I mentioned this before under quirky things to do in London, but visiting one of the big seven cemeteries in London is another free thing to do. I know it sounds like a random thing to add to your list of things to do in London in 5 days but it’s actually great walking around. We have only done Highgate and Nunhead, but they are fascinating places to visit.

VISIT PLATFORM 9 3/4

Located near the Harry Potter Shop at King’s Cross Railway Station you will find Platform 9 3/4. Here you can get a photo with a disappearing trolley and make your Harry Potter dreams come true. Lines do get long though so expect to wait.

CHILL IN SOME OF THE PARKS

For a bustling metropolis London is pretty green. There are so many great parks you can add to your 5 day London itinerary for free. Here are some of the best:

• Richmond Park
• Greenwich Park
• St James’ Park

PICCADILLY CIRCUS

Piccadilly Circus is like the London version of Times Square. It’s fun to visit and see all the bright lights and get that all important selfie.

TRAFALGAR SQUARE

Trafalgar Square is another top attraction when visiting London in 5 days. There tend to be a lot of events here. Make sure you take that selfie with those famous lions.

Here are some of our top tips for planning your 5 days in London.

• If you are spending 5 days in London try to book your trip so that you aren’t paying accommodation on a Friday and Sunday night as these are the most expensive.
• Check that there aren’t any major festivals on during your 5 days in London as this will mean that accommodation will be more expensive.
• Book restaurants and cocktail bars in advance, particularly if you really want to visit.
• When catching the Tube sometimes it is quicker to walk between certain stations than the ride the Tube particularly during peak hour.
• Tubes get pretty hot in the summer, so carry a bottle of water with you at all times.

Apart from your usual items here are some things that you definitely need for your trip to London.

• A good pair of walking shoes
• A jacket (even in the summer bring a light coat as evenings can get chilly)
• Moisturiser and Lip Balm

For a 5 day London itinerary I would probably budget between £50 – £100 per day (not including accommodation). You can spend less by planning appropriately and avoiding eating out at restaurants. You can also easily spend a whole lot more. Obviously costs will also depend on what you want to see and do so our estimate is very much an average on what you could get by per day in London.

London is notorious for being expensive. On average a standard hotel room can cost upwards of £100 per night. If you plan to stay out of the centre of London, you need to factor transport costs in as well.

In terms of other essentials like transport, with an Oyster Card the Tube is capped at £7.70 per day as long as you stick to Zones 1 & 2. In fairness most of the tourist attractions are within this area anyway.

If you are trying to decide between London or Amsterdam here is a helpful guide.

We definitely think you should plan to spend 5 days in London. It’s a great amount of time to get to grips with the city, explore the main attractions, as well as some hidden gems.

London is a city like no other, it’s full of history as well as modern architecture and life. It’s glamorous, but also has grundy bars and excellent street food. It’s traditional, but has such a mix of cultures and nationalities that make up its identity.

No matter what kind of traveller you are, you will find so much to do as part of your 5 day London itinerary.

And if you are trying to decide between London or Manchester , here is a handy guide.

Or trying to decide between London and Dublin – here is a helpful guide.

If you found this guide useful make sure you pin it for later.

Enjoy London, and Happy Travels!

Wanderlust and Life is a blog for those that love to travel.

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London in Five days

Planning to visit  London in five days is a great idea, as you will be able to explore London´s best attractions as well as London´s best museums and parks. The following five day itinerary to see London has been designed to include some of London’s top attractions, like Big Ben ,  London Eye ,  Westminster Abbey ,  The Tower of London ,  St Paul’s Cathedral  as well as some of London´s less touristic places.

I would recommend that you plan your five day trip to London in advance to be able to make the most of your trip. If you arrive in London with planned itineraries, you won’t have to waste any time deciding where to go next.

London in five days

If it’s your first time in London and you want to see as much as possible, I would highly recommend the  hop on hop off bus tour . You will get to see so much more when visiting London, but we absolutely love the  free river cruise  which is included and totally worth it.

One more thing you should probably consider if you are spending 5 days in London, is a London Tourist Pass. If you are planning on visiting a few of London’s attractions it will most likely be worth considering a London Sightseeing Pass . The London Pass actually includes the hop on hop off bus tour, as well as a river cruise too.

London in five days: Days 1, 2 and 3 in London

For the first three days in London I would suggest that you follow our Three Day London Itinerary.

Following our three day itinerary will enable you to see the following attractions and must-sees of London during the first three days:

• Changing of the Guard
• Buckingham Palace
• Westminster Abbey
• Trafalgar Square
• Regent Street
• Carnaby Street
• Covent Garden
• Oxford Street
• Kensington Gardens
• St Paul’s Cathedral
• Tower of London
• Tower Bridge
• London Bridge
• Borough Market
• The View from the Shard

There is also time during these first three days in London to visit one of London’s top museums or to watch one of London’s top musicals one evening.

London in five days: Day 4 in London – Greenwich / Harry Potter Studio Tour / Other Day Tour

For your fourth day in London, we are going to suggest that you head out of central London. You could either choose:

> Option 1: Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour

This is your perfect chance to visit the famous Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour if you’re a fan. Don’t forget to book as soon as possible though, as tickets sell out very quickly.

Check out our Harry Potter in London Guide

> Option 2: Greenwich

visit the magnificent area of Greenwich in the morning, and to make the day even more spectacular we would suggest that you get to Greenwich by boat from Westminster as the views are amazing.

Once you arrive at Greenwich, you will be able to visit the following attractions:

• Greenwich Market  (free entry, open 7 days a week from 10 am to 5 pm)
• Painted Hall  (free entry)
• Old Royal Naval College  (free entry)
• Queen’s House  (free entry)
• National Maritime Museum  (free entry)
• Royal Observatory

In order to get to Greenwich by boat, there are several options. You can hop on a river cruise from Westminster to Greenwich but don’t forget that you can also get a free river cruise  from Westminster to Greenwich if you buy a two day ticket for the  sightseeing bus tour in London. Other options include buying combined tickets for the river cruise + Cutty Sark or River Cruise + entry to Royal Observatory .

> Option 3: Other Day Tour

Other cities: Maybe you would like to visit Oxford, Cambridge, Bath, Stratford Upon Avon or Stonehenge for example. All these places can be easily reached from London, and they make wonderful day trips from London. You can either choose to organize everything yourself, by getting to these places by public transport or you could join an organized tour to make your life easier.

Inside London: You could also consider visiting Richmond Upon Thames, Hampton Court Palace or Kew Gardens for example.

If you still have time afterwards, you may be able explore more of London in the afternoon or evening. You can head over to one of London’s Top Museums , or, depending on what you are doing, this may be a good day to see one of London’s Top Musicals , like the Lion King, Mamma Mia, Wicked or The Phantom of the Opera.

London in five days: Day 5 in London – Little Venice and Camden Market

On day 5 we are going to visit the area of Little Venice in London . This oasis of tranquility is nestled in central London. From here, we can walk along Regent’s Canal (or take a boat trip) to Camden Lock. We will then have the opportunity of visiting Camden Town and the famous Camden Market .

Best Travel Options when visiting London in five days

There are plenty of things to do in London and the best way to move around is by using an oyster card or a visitor oyster card . You can also use a contactless debit or credit card on London’s public transport system, but check bank commission charges if it’s a non UK card. This is definitely the cheapest way to get around London in five days, and you can use any of those cards to go on public buses, tube, dockland light rail trains or trains within London Travel Zones .

Recommended hotels to spend three days in London

We have shortlisted a few hotels for you, based on price and location.

Check them out here: Recommended hotels in London .

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Europe , Explore More , United Kingdom · December 8, 2022

The Best 5 Day London Itinerary

London, the capital of the UK, is famous for its pubs, lively atmosphere, immaculate architecture, and many iconic attractions. You’re probably reading this because you’re planning a 5 day London itinerary. This will be the best comprehensive and complete guide to help plan your 5 day London trip whether it’s your first time in London or you’re visiting again. Save this post or share it with those you’re traveling to London with to use as inspiration for what to do in London in 5 days!

Day 1 of 5 Day London Itinerary

PRO TIP: On the first day of your 5 days in London itinerary, be sure to stop by one of the train stations to get an Oyster card . It’s essentially a train pass that costs 5 euros and allows you to ride the metro at a discounted rate. Not to mention, you can skip the line and hassle to line up every time to purchase a single-fare ticket. There’s also a daily cap on the amount you get charged everyday – so if you go above the number, the rest of your rides for the day will be free.

Borough Market

Borough Market is a must-visit on this 5 day London itinerary because it’s one of the oldest and largest food markets in London. It’s a food lover’s heaven – they have such a large variety of good food from all types of cuisines. A few popular things you can find here are Spanish Paella, French cheeses, Asian curries, Fish and Chips, English Pies, and the list goes on. Make sure to come hungry and you’ll have a good time.

Covent Garden

Next stop on our 5 day London itinerary is to visit Covent Garden. It’s a modern and bustling outdoor shopping area with luxury fashion stores, beauty brands, restaurants, and lots more shops of all kinds.

There are two sections in Covent Garden. The first is a semi-outdoor area with shops and food stalls (pictured). The second part is an outdoor area with many shops. Extravagant pop-up shops or events are hosted here so that really adds to the liveliness of this plaza. To get here from Borough Market, take the metro from London Bridge station to Covent Garden station.

Hyde Park is the largest royal park in London. It’s worth a visit if you like to enjoy nature, greenery, and a relaxing atmosphere. Swing by Speaker’s Corner where anyone can air their opinions at the soapbox. At The Italian Gardens, you can see elegant statues and fountains. If you’ll be in London around mid-November to the beginning of January, definitely go because Hyde Park will turn into a festive Winter Wonderland park.

Buckingham Palace

About a 15 minute walk away from Hyde Park will take you Buckingham Palace . This place is known for the London residence and administrative headquarters of the monarch of the UK. It’s a popular tourist destination and if time allows, visit Buckingham Palace both during the day and night to get views of both. The Victoria Memorial is also another popular attraction. It’s a statue located in front of the Buckingham Palace and commemorates the death of Queen Victoria in 1901.

Day 2 of 5 Day London Itinerary

Big bus tour.

Since London is a pretty big city, it’s hard to see everything on foot. One of the most appealing parts of London is the incredible architecture so the best way to get good views and see more in a short amount of time is to take a Big Bus Tour . If you want to cover a lot of ground in your five days in London itinerary, Big Bus Tours will be a convenient and good option for you.

Essentially, you pay a fee and hop on and off the Big Bus whenever you want. At the top of the bus, it opens up so you can see the stunning views of London.

Some places the Big Bus takes you to include Abbey Road Crossing, Piccadilly Circus, St. James’ Park, Big Ben, The Shard, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and much more.

Click here to get 10% off Big Bus Tours .

check out big bus tours

Public transportation is quite convenient in London with its easy metro station and double-decker buses. But the Big Bus Tour can take you to the exact attraction you’d like to see.

St. James Park

This is the second park on our London itinerary for 5 days and definitely worth a visit.

It’s also one of the stops you can hop off using Big Bus Tours is St. James Park . The place is a 23-hectare royal park and you can spot amazing views of the lake from St. James Cafe. There’s lots of greenery and a great place to walk around and relax. St. James Park opens from 5am to midnight all year round.

Trafalgar Square

Along the path of Big Bus Tours , you’ll pass by Trafalgar Square, a public square commemorating the victory of the Battle of Trafalgar. This was a war fought between the British Royal Navy and combined fleets of Spain and France during the Napoleonic War. Inside this square, you can see lots of water fountains and sculptures. It’s a really lively place and is always filled with both locals and tourists. Definitely worth hopping off the bus to see this place.

Another stop along the Big Bus Tours is Chinatown. Most Chinatowns around the world are dirty, old, and not too attractive but the London Chinatown is completely different. All the buildings look incredibly modern, the streets are clean, and there’s a huge variety of authentic Chinese foods including rice dishes, noodle dishes, roast duck, roast pork, Chinese desserts, Chinese drinks, and more. Definitely recommend adding Chinatown to your 5 Day London Itinerary.

Thames River Cruise

On your 5 days in London itinerary, riding a river cruise is a must. There are several types of river cruises in London that shows you the entire London skyline and famous attractions surrounding it. It’s even more beautiful at nighttime when all the buildings are lit up. Here are a few of the most popular Thames River Cruises:

Westminster to Greenwich River Thames Cruise: This cruise is around 1 hour long and takes you through Westminster Pier, Embankment Pier, Festival Pier, Bankside Pier, Tower Bridge, and Greenwich Pier. There’s also a live tour guide on the boat.

River Thames Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Cruise: One ticket on this cruise lets you hop on and hop off for 24 hours. It’ll stop by Westminster Pier, London Eye Pier, Tower Pier, and Greenwich Pier. This cruise is great if you want to hop off to exploring more.

River Thames Dinner Cruise: This is a 3-hour cruise ride from Westminster to the Thames Barrier and includes a 4-course dinner, a live singer, and a welcome glass of sparkling wine upon arrival. Great for those who want to spend more time on the boat and enjoy a beautiful dinner.

Day 3 of 5 Day London Itinerary

St. paul’s cathedral.

St. Paul’s Cathedral serves as the Anglican Episcopal and has been the place for religious and cultural events. The marriage of Princess Diana and Prince Charles were married at St Paul’s Cathedral. The funeral of Winston Churchill and Lord Nelson also took place here. The interior architecture is so intricate and beautiful.

There is a fee to enter St. Paul’s Cathedral. You can purchase tickets ahead of time to get in quicker.

Click here to get tickets to St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is a London church and like St. Paul’s Cathedral, Westminster Abbey frequently hosts events and ceremonies with national significance. The wedding of William and Catherine from the royal family took place in Westminster Abbey. There’s a fee to enter and you can purchase it ahead of time to get in quicker.

St. Paul’s Cathedral and Westminster Abbey are the two most popular churches in London and a must to add to your 5 Day London itinerary.

Click here to get Westminster Abbey tickets.

get tickets to westminster abbey

Ferris Wheels are all over the world but the London Eye is probably the most famous of them all. It’s Europe’s tallest observation wheel and is the most popular paid tourist attraction in the UK. The London Eye attracts over 3 million visitors annually. It’s a 30 minute ride and it’s a good spot to see views of the London skyline and popular London attractions from the top of the London Eye. Add this to your London Itinerary 5 days!

To skip the line, click here to purchase London Eye tickets.

get tickets to london eye

This crosswalk may seem familiar to you if you’re a Beatles fan. The popular picture of the 4 member band crossing the street was taken on Abbey Road . It’s in a quiet neighborhood in London located in St. John’s Wood. You can get there by taking the metro to St. John’s Wood Tube Station.

Piccadilly Circus

PHOTO: PICADILLY CIRCUS BY JIMMY BAIKOVICIUS (CREATIVE COMMONS LICENSE)

Piccadilly Circus is like New York Times Square. There are huge bold neon billboard signs and is always packed with people. It’s a popular meeting point for locals since it sits right at the center of London. The wide streets are filled with stores, bright red London buses, cars, and so much goes on. To get here by metro, get off at Piccadilly Circus station. During your 5 days in London, you might even visit Piccadilly Circus multiple times since it’s at the center of everything.

Next to Piccadilly Circus is Soho , another popular area in the center of London. It’s less busy than Piccadilly Circus and is more focused on dining, bars, and nightlife. Walk through the narrow alleyways to explore a variety of boutique shops.

Day 4 of 5 Day London Itinerary

Cambridge university.

PHOTO: CAMBRIDGE UNIVERSITY BY ALEX BROWN (CREATIVE COMMONS LICENSE)

Cambridge is located north of London and is around a 1-hour train ride. Even though Cambridge is a bit far from London, it’s 100% worth visiting. This will probably likely be a half-day trip so it won’t take up too much time in your 5 day London itinerary. Cambridge is essentially a university city and contains 31 colleges with Cambridge University being the most prestigious and well-known. It feels like a college town with small shops and lots of university buildings.

To get to Cambridge from London, go to King’s Cross train station.

Punt Tour Ride In Cambridge

One of the most peculiar things to do in Cambridge is to do a punt ride . You sit on a small boat and someone will lead you down the river and you can see views of the many colleges in Cambridge. It’s a really relaxing ride and the person will provide live commentary on different buildings, bridges, and other things you see along the river. It’s similar to a gondola ride in Venice , but of course, with very different scenery.

Click here to get tickets for a Guided Punting Tour.

get tickets to punting tour

Tower of London

PHOTO: TOWER OF LONDON BY BOB COLLOWAN (CREATIVE COMMONS LICENSE)

The Tower of London is a historic castle built by William the Conqueror. This tower is incredible monument because took over 20 years to build and was built to protect William the Conqueror’s power and to assert his power.

There are three different parts of the visit. The first is Crown Jewels where you can see world famous collections of gemstones and crowns worn by members of the royal family. The second part is to see the ravens that live inside the Tower of London. There is 6-9 ravens today and Charles II is thought to be the one who said the crown and Tower will fall if the ravens left. The third part of the visit is to do Yeoman Warder Tour. They will explain the Tower’s history and tell past stories about prisoners in the Tower of London.

The combination of Tower of London’s rich history and interesting things to do inside makes it really worth putting on your 5 day London itinerary. To get here, get off at Tower Hill Underground Station.

Click here to get tickets to The Tower of London.

get tickets to tower of london

Tower Bridge

Other than the London Eye, Tower Bridge is probably the landmark that is most representative of London. It’s one of the most stunning bridges in the world and is one of the most sophisticated bascule bridges ever built. Its iconic light blue features on the side stand out. Make sure to take pictures of it from afar and up close to get both views of the bridge. The Big Bus Tour’s route will also pass by the Tower Bridge.

To get here, get off the London Bridge train station.

British Museum

The British Museum is known worldwide and is a public museum featuring history, art, culture, and human culture. The most famous artifacts in The British Museum are The Rosetta Stone, Sophilos Vase, The Parthenon Sculptures, and Crouching Venus. This is the perfect place to learn all about human history and art. It’s free to enter the British Museum.

To get here on the metro, get off at Holborn or Tottenham Court Road station.

Day 5 of 5 Day London Itinerary

Windsor castle.

Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest occupied castle. Many members of the royal family resided here for over 1,000 years including Queen Elizabeth II. It’s also a royal working palace today and is home to over 150 people. Inside, you can see historic rooms, chapel, semi-state rooms, Queen Mary’s doll house, and more. Even if you’re not into the royal family, it’s a fascinating experience to see how they lived back then. Windsor Castle is open to the public to visit with an entrance fee.

To get here, get off the Windsor Central Station.

Click here to get Windsor Castle tickets.

get windsor castle tickets

Kensington Palace

Kensington Palace is the official London residence of Prince and Princess of Wales, William and Catherine along with their children. It’s also the birthplace of Queen Victoria. It’s worth it to put on your 5 day London itinerary if you’re interested in discovering how monarchs lived in the past and to especially see how Queen Victoria lived back then. No ticket is needed to enter the Kensington Gardens but there is an entrance fee to enter the palace.

Click here to get Kensington Palace tickets.

get tickets to kensington palace

The View from The Shard

The Shard is a 72-story skyscraper designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano. Inside the building, there are offices, restaurants, and hotel rooms. It’s one of the most recognizable buildings in the world. At the top, you can see spectacular views of the entire city of London. Go up to the top during sunset through the night to get views of the day and night.

To get here, get off at the London Bridge Underground Station,

Click here to get tickets to The Shard.

get tickets to the shard

And there you have it – a London 5 day itinerary packed with visiting the most popular attractions and learning about the history of London! This is a relatively light agenda so go ahead and add more to it if you’d like to pack in more places to visit in London .

Read more: Now we have our 5 day London itinerary set, check out what to wear in Europe !

Is 5 days enough for London?

Yes, definitely. 5 days is a good amount of time to see the main parts of London including the most popular churches, castles, towers, and shopping areas. To see more during your 5 days in London, you can ride the Big Bus Tours to easily hop on and off the bus to get to more places quicker. This 5 day London itinerary covers a lot of the most visited and best places to visit in London.

What is the cheapest month to visit London?

Late October to late March (excluding December) is the cheapest months to visit London because kids are in school and overall less people are traveling. Plane tickets and hotel rates are usually the cheapest during those months.

Is it cheaper to use Oyster or buy a ticket?

It’s much cheaper to use the Oyster card than buying single-ride tickets. It’s only 5 euros to purchase an Oyster card and you can get discounted rates on every ride. The best thing is if you go above a certain amount, the rest of the fares for the day will be free.

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The Best 5-Day London Itinerary For First-Time Visitors

Last Updated: February 5, 2021 //  by  Ashley Smith 27 Comments

Coming up with a 5-day London itinerary had never been on my radar. It was as much a stranger to me as everything else I couldn’t care less about: Star Trek , pho, pacifiers, what sorority you were in.

I basically ended up going just to say I’d been and because hearing “OMG of all the places you‘ve traveled, you’ve never been to London?” had gotten stale faster than forgotten focaccia. What was London–some kind of gateway travel destination?

I had initially set aside just 2 or 3 days in London—as per usual—but the list of things I needed to see kept growing and growing, much to my shock. I’d never realized there was so much to do and, like, was I actually going to enjoy London? Were all your sorority sisters right after all? I already live in New England… was there a chance regular ol’ England was going to be even better?

I took a chance and came up with an entire 5-day London itinerary which is more than I typically allot for a new place I care so little about. Maybe I’d enjoy the hell out of it; maybe a 5-days London itinerary was too long; regardless, how could I get bored in a place with so many pubs?

To my surprise, I enjoyed the hell outta my trip and feel this 5 days in London is perfect for a first-time visitor. This 5-day London itinerary includes so much to see and do, you’ll never feel bored—but you also won’t feel rushed or exhausted or like Dobby with a desk lamp ( “Dobby had to punish himself, sir” ).

The one thing you will feel is astonishment at how good the food is (the exact opposite of everything you’ve been led to believe your whole life, no?). Regular ol’ England, here I come!

⇣⇣⇣  Click on this little square thing to see the key and layers.

5- DAY LONDON ITINERARY | DAY 01

Where to stay in london.

Deciding where to stay in London was a job in itself. London is absolutely massive and the only place I knew to stay was already booked up. I mean, c’mon Buckingham Palace; I know you’ve got a crapload of rooms in there. Why the snub? Hit me back.

I eventually settled on the Trafalgar Square area because of its central location and I can’t recommend this area enough for first-time visitors. I could walk almost everywhere, catching public transportation was a breeze, and pubs pubs pubs pubs pubs.

I stayed in a studio apartment room at the Citadines Trafalgar Square and it was perfect. There wasn’t anything I needed they didn’t already provide and that list includes free coffee in the lobby, an Italian male concierge, and a purple wall in my room. I can be pretty persnickety when I wanna be. Read more reviews on Tripadvisor | Book your room here!

After dropping off my bags at the hotel, I walked to the end of my street and over the river to the London Eye because I can only get my bearings at 443 feet up and no less.

Why visit the London Eye?

Though I’m not usually one for kitschy Ferris wheels, the views from the London Eye are the best in the city. And isn’t that why we all came to London anyway? To point out as many filming locations from Harry Potter as we could spot?

TRAFALGAR SQUARE

Since I had to go back and actually check in to my room, I followed that up with a trip around Trafalgar Square , my new ‘hood.

Why visit Trafalgar Square? 

For me, it was to get acquainted with my new digs. For everyone else, there’s Nelson’s Column in the center and the surrounding lion statues people come from far and wide to see; there’s a fountain, some other weird art I don’t get, some beautiful architecture, and like the most confusing street patterns I’ve ever seen. THANK GOD the streets tell you from which way the cars are coming.

ALSO CHECK OUT ─ Is your trip to London going to be your first international trip? (Yay!) Be sure to check out my step-by-step guide for how to get a passport . I’ve broken down this mildly confusing process into steps you can actually follow.

NATIONAL GALLERY

My first stop was the National Gallery which takes up the entire north side of Trafalgar Square. I had a little over an hour to explore before closing time when I imagine all those crazy paintings come to life. My personal favorite was this guy, illustrating what all my readers must look like when they read my blog posts:

Why visit the National Gallery?

London’s National Gallery displays paintings by such artists as Botticelli, Michelangelo, Raphael, Van Gogh, Da Vinci, and everyone else you learned about in high school art class. The National Gallery has one of the largest collections of fine art in the world and the place is totally FREE. Seriously, just walk right in off the street, ain’t no thang.

Because I like to keep my life as balanced as possible, I went straight from the pretentious world of fine art and even finer tailoring and into the loudest, most testosterone-heavy pub I could find,  Lord Moon of the Mall .

Why visit Lord Moon of the Mall?

Well, even the sign outside said “Welcome to a traditional English pub.” And that it was—an eye-opening first London pub experience that left me with so many questions. First and foremost, where are all the women? This is a trend I noted in every pub I went into—heavy male presence, almost zero women.

Regardless, the atmosphere was jovial, the place was super cozy despite its large size, and the beers were delicious. What more do you want from a pub? Purple walls and an Italian male hostess? Damn. Get your priorities in check.

5- DAY LONDON ITINERARY | DAY 02

One thing I love about British culture more than anything probably (yes, even more than their funny words, even more than scones), is their penchant for decent, nay, phenomenally filling breakfasts. The French ways of café and croissant do absolutely nothing for me— I need meat, vegetables, eggs, beans, and, whatever bubble & squeak is, I need it more than I need oxygen . So what did I do on my first official morning in the of bountiful British breakfasts?

ALSO CHECK OUT ─ What to Pack for London and Paris in the Winter (for real people!) if you haven’t already. It’s full of helpful tips for packing for these two awesome cities.

BREAKFAST AT CAFÉ CONCERTO

I hit up the French café across the street because… lazy. I mean, it was right there. I should only be required to walk so far first thing in the morning.

Why visit Café Concerto?

I actually had breakfast at Café Concerto twice during my 5 days in London and though it’s not brilliantly British, I still include it in this 5-day London itinerary because the food was fantastic, the service was excellent and super friendly, and the atmosphere was cozy and chill.

Plus they had framed photos of He Who Must Not Be Named but like, in regular clothes. So… Ralph Fiennes, I guess. There, I named him.

DOUBLE-DECKER BUS TOUR

After filling up on ham, cheese, and caffeine, I headed into Trafalgar Square to grab a seat on a big red bus. I chose The Original Tour because I read they were the best and, well, they were right there. How many of my life choices are made for me because of proximity alone? Hmm. Regardless, I highly recommend them!

Why take an Original double-decker bus tour?

➤ These busses are hop on/hop off so you can even use them as your primary mode of transportation if you wish. Get off when you hit an attraction you want to visit; get back on and head to the next one when you’re done.

➤ Score a guided tour of the city just by staying planted (laziness + proximity win!). Plug in your earbuds (or they’ll give you a set) and listen to a pre-recorded guided tour of the city’s highlights as you drive past them. (They point out all the HP filming locations too! Nerd win!)

➤ Riding on the open-air top level of the bus is a kickass and unique way to see London. (Yes, riding on top of the bus in February is really, really cold. But if you’ve read my post on What to Pack for London and Paris in the Winter , you’ll be fully prepared!)

➤ Our double-decker bus tour even came with a Thames river cruise which I’m sure would’ve been awesome had I remembered to take it.

Believe me, I was totally against these uber-touristy red bus tours at first but quickly learned that the awesomeness of them outweighed how ridiculous I looked to strangers whose opinions I give no shits about.

These tours can be booked online (it is 2020 after all) but I simply walked into the Original London Visitor Centre and got my ticket there.

ST. PAUL’S CATHEDRAL

After a bit of a tour around the city, I got off the bus (ahem, hopped off) at St. Paul’s Cathedral . Now, I’m a big fan of cathedral hopping in Europe—Italy, France, Spain, etc.—but St. Paul’s was unlike anything I’d ever seen, being not Catholic and all.

When I look up pictures of it now, it just looks ornate and beautiful. But walking around inside I remember thinking, “What in the world is going on here?” and it wasn’t just because of the questionable modern art installations (let’s just say I saw more than one 21 st century boobie).

I can’t remember exactly what weirded me out (no photography allowed inside), I just remember it felt a little… off . Like Princess Leia in the last scene of The Force Awakens or Governor Tarkin the whole entire time . I see what you’re doing there… but no. Kickass floor though…

Why visit St. Paul’s Cathedral?

St. Paul’s Cathedral is one of the largest churches in the world (#22 by Wikipedia’s estimate) and was consecrated a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away (or 1697). That’s cool and all but… there’s also a whispering gallery here and a badass dome.

In the whispering gallery you’re supposed to be able to communicate with someone else clear on the other side of the church just by whispering. I failed at this sorcery so if you succeed, share your secrets!

St. Paul’s also has two levels of dome you can climb for 360° views of London (at no additional cost) from the 2 nd largest cathedral dome in the world (364 feet up, 528 steps to get there).

TOWER OF LONDON (a 5-day London itinerary MUST)

After leaving St. Paul’s I caught another Original bus and rode the loopty-loop around to the Tower of London . I joined the very next Yeoman Warder tour and afterwards explored the place on my own.

I made friends with ravens, plotted out who I’d behead if this were still medieval times, and bought a set of old rusty castle keys that are so comically large my husband knocks them off the wall every time he walks by.

Why visit the Tower of London?

Because Medieval times, yo! The Tower of London is a fortress founded in 1066 and is straight out of your every medieval nightmare. Guillotines and dungeons and tales of beheading and torture, yup, it’s all here.

The Tower of London is also home to the crown jewels—Queen Elizabeth II’s crown and a hundred other crowns with jewels the size of your morning scone; ermine capes and staffs and dishes worth more than, well, you. They’ve got a team of ravens jacked enough to kick your ass if need be and the most fascinating, hilarious, worthwhile tour I’ve ever been on.

The Yeoman Warder tours take place every 30 minutes, last one hour, and are included in your (and worth the entire) admission cost. Yeoman Warders have been the Royal Bodyguard since 1509 and to become one is to almost become royalty themselves. Also, they are HI-LAR-I-OUS. I had the pleasure of being led by Moira who was, at the time, the first and only female Yeoman Warder in history.

TOWER BRIDGE

Just outside the Tower of London is (proximity win!) the Tower Bridge . There’s also the Tower Bridge Exhibition that takes you up inside the bridge for great views, a lesson on “the magic of a bridge lift”, and a glass floor over the traffic because if you’re at no point afraid you might die a horrible death, where’s the fun? We learned that crossing the street in Trafalgar Square, now didn’t we?

I opted out of the exhibition in favour of (well look at that, my computer automatically spelled that in British) getting to the fish and chips a half hour sooner and chose simply to walk across the beautiful blue bridge.

Why walk across the Tower Bridge?

Because look how beautiful it is! It’s famous and blue and it’s a London icon. It’s meant to just be walked all over. Plus, ya gotta get over the river anyway.

LUNCH AT BOROUGH MARKET

Once over the Tower Bridge it was just a short walk down to the Borough Market where I would devour some freshhh fish and chips and it’s about damn time, right? I’d been in London like 24 hours by this point.

Why visit the Borough Market?

The Borough Market is London’s most renowned food market and you can get just about anything you want there. I opted for fish and chips, duh, but they have cheese shops and prosciutto shops and bakeries, pasta-eries, chocolate stands, seafood joints, paella, and even a pig roasting on a spit if that’s what tickles your fancy.

Everything is phenomenal (I TRIED ALL THE CHEESE AND PROSCIUTTO SAMPLES SO YOU DON’T HAVE TO) and the seating is communal. Regardless of what you order, you’re going to have a delicious meal next to the nicest people.

GLOBE THEATER

After lunch I hauled my beer-battered ass back up to street level and towards the Globe Theater on my way back over the river.

Why stop by the Globe Theater on your way back across the river?

The Globe is a theater built back in 1599 by William’s Shakespeare’s Playing Company and for over a decade put on some of his most famous plays. This one is a reconstruction. It was built in 1997.

However! As any ol’ play actor would tell you, pretending is super fun so when you pretend this is the original, fun times for all! It’s located right next to the spot of the original and you can still see plays here in the original style (and by that I mean yo’ ass is standing).

MILLENIUM BRIDGE

I turned left outside the Globe Theater entrance and found myself face-to-face with the Millennium Bridge and thought, “This will be a fine bridge to cross the river on.” JK, I had that planned out all along. ⚡

Why cross the river via the Millennium Bridge?

For those of you in the know: Death Eaters, son! For those of you not: Something to do with Harry Potter .

BACK ON THE BUS

After crossing the Millennium Bridge (that was harrowing for a while there, phew), I walked along the river until the sun set and caught another Original bus. The tour continued up to Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, past some other sites I’ll get to, and back to Trafalgar Square.

Why get back on the bus?

They’s my ride.

BEERS AT SHERLOCK HOLMES

After decompressing back at the hotel for a hot minute, I headed just around the corner to the Sherlock Holmes —a London pub so cute it just couldn’t have been real—for a flagon of ale. They say stuff like ‘flagon of ale’, right? They better ‘cause I’ve got all the hobbit drinking songs in my back pocket should the occasion arise.

Why stop for beers at the Sherlock Holmes?

Proximity. But also because LOOK HOW CUTE. The Sherlock Holmes is a—no shit, Sherlock—Sherlock Holmes themed bar. That sentence was too much I think. I don’t know jack about Sherlock Holmes but if you do, this is your spot.

I do know a thing or two about consuming beer in a jolly environment and making new Japanese friends though. It was a Tuesday night when I went and the place was completely packed. I drank beers I had no clue about and ate chips (fries) until standing at the bar became leaning on the bar then headed back to the Citadines for a long winter’s nap.

5- DAY LONDON ITINERARY | DAY 03

Breakfast at café in the crypt.

While searching for places to have a good, English breakfast near Trafalgar Square on day 3 of my 5-day London itinerary, I came across something weird and truly questionable—so naturally I jumped on it like a wizard to a broom. Yer dining with dead people, Harry!

Why Café in the Crypt?

Say what you want about starting your day with tea on a tombstone but this place was awesome. Café in the Crypt is exactly what the name implies, a café located—why? Beats me.—inside the crypt of the Anglican church St. Martin-in-the-Fields.

They serve full English breakfasts and a host of other items, amazing pastries, and porridge . How cute is this place? Well, except for all the surrounding reminders that one day your eternal resting place may be located under a restroom.

The food was delicious and I followed up my meal with a look around the crypt, then a look around the church upstairs. Is it weird eating your breakfast on top of countless graves? Hell no, it rocks! 🤘🏼

BUCKINGHAM PALACE | CHANGING OF THE GUARD

Thinking it would take me, like, forever (it didn’t), I decided to walk to Buckingham Palace for the Changing of the Guard ceremony from Trafalgar Square. I ended up getting there super early which 1) sucked because it was freezing out and 2) rocked because I was able to get a great spot along the barrier, front and center.

When it’s all said and done, you’re left with great pictures and probably all your digits so, my advice is to get there EARLY. Even in February when it’s colder than a house elf on Hoth, the crowds are still ludicrous.

Why see the Changing of the Guard ceremony?

The Changing of the Guard is a quintessential London experience, that’s why. It’s really cold and the ceremony is not all that long but wouldn’t you feel stupid if you visited London and didn’t include this in your 5-day London itinerary? Besides, THIS IS WHERE THE QUEEN LIVES.

The outfits are fancy, there are ponies, and the whole experience is worth it to hear that one guy who is so bad on his trumpet you just know he snuck in off the street. Off with his head!

After the brief ceremony, I opted to grab a cab back to Trafalgar Square due mostly to the fact that I wasn’t even sure if my legs were still attached but also because it’s really fun riding on the left side of the street. #What?Shutup. I stopped into Café Concerto again for a cappuccino to raise my body temperature from the inside out.

HARRY POTTER STUDIO TOUR

From there I walked the two blocks to the Embankment Underground station to catch a train to Leavesden which was, by the grace of the nerd gods, on the tracks between platforms 9 and 10. A short train ride, then a longer train ride, then a shuttle bus later I was at the Warner Brothers lot for my Harry Potter studio tour .

Why take the Harry Potter studio tour?

The HP studio tour takes place at the Warner Brothers studios where all the Harry Potter films were made. You can see the sets, props, wardrobes, and behind the scenes technology; you can fly on a broomstick or in an enchanted car; you can drink butterbeer; you can go inside the Knight Bus, the Great Hall at Hogwarts, Diagon Alley, Dumbledore’s Office, the Hogwarts Express, and 4 Privet Drive; you can get up-close to the scale model of Hogwarts; you can all around geek the f*ck out and nobody will make fun of you! It’s nerd Mecca and you’ll never want to leave, that’s why.

I had such an amazing time on the Harry Potter studio tour that I wrote an entire post about it. Read that here ⇣

DINNER AT BRONTE

After what felt like an entire day in Leavesden, I finally made it back to Trafalgar Square where I opted for dinner at Bronte because I passed it on my way back to the hotel from the train station (yeah, I took the looong way home) and there were flames on their porch to which I was inexplicably drawn.

Why have dinner at Bronte?

Great food, fancy-pants service. The tuna tartare was delicious and, had I the energy to consume anything more, I’m sure it would’ve been great. The place is trendy and aesthetically pleasing and I’m sure I looked like an absolute fool in there with my Slytherin scarf and bag of souvenir cat plates from Professor Umbridge’s office. Totally going back to Bronte for a proper fancy-pants do-over.

5- DAY LONDON ITINERARY | DAY 04

On Day 4 of my 5-day London itinerary I had a phenomenal breakfast! At a place that is now closed forever so… awkward…. I guess just eat wherever you want today.

WESTMINSTER ABBEY

After the best avocado toast I’ve ever had in my life (sorry), I caught a cab for Westminster Abbey . I spent a good couple hours there so I think that clears me for a while with the Man Upstairs, right?

Westminster Abbey was incredible and proved way more entertaining than I expected. I grabbed an audio guide upon entering and took my time weaving throughout the entire place. The audio guide, which you can also download ahead of time, takes about one hour and is narrated by Uncle Scar from The Lion King so… Hello, emotional roller coaster! Your voice is like a warm blanket. Murderer! But tell me more about this beautiful church. I hate you!  

(UPDATE: Their link to the audio guide is gone but you can still download it via your friendly app store. Just look for the official Westminster Abbey app.)

Why visit Westminster Abbey?

Personally, I was most interested in seeing the graves of a bunch of famous people because I’m creepy like that sometimes. Among the thousands of people buried at Westminster Abbey you’ll find: Charles Darwin (whose claim to fame is basically the opposite of ‘church’ so this one is particularly interesting), Sir Isaac Newton, and Charles Dickens.

You can also visit the tombs of Queen Elizabeth I, Mary, Queen of Scots, and a ton of other historic figures you’d totally know if you read about them.

Westminster Abbey is also where all the royal coronations and a host of royal weddings have taken place since 1066 AD. Prince William and Kate Middleton were married here, Queen Elizabeth was crowned here, and you can check out the Coronation Chair that’s been used for every coronation since 1300. Shut up, it’s cool!

Note: There is no photography allowed inside Westminster Abbey. Worldwide broadcasts of intimate wedding ceremonies are apparently okay though.

BIG BEN | PARLIAMENT

After leaving Westminster Abbey I walked across the street to check out Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament . Something Brexit-related was happening so I couldn’t get inside but here are some pictures from the sidewalk. Being able to enter or not, seeing the clock tower and building up close is still a 5-day London itinerary must.

CHURCHILL WAR ROOMS

Just a few minutes walk down the street from Parliament, down an alley, then down a staircase, are the Churchill War Rooms . The Churchill War Rooms are the secret, underground bunker that served at Winston Churchill’s and the British government’s command center during World War II that also includes the Churchill Museum.

They even have one of his cigar butts here. Do you ever wonder how much of your cruddy old garbage could be worth millions someday? Something to think about.

Why visit the Churchill War Rooms?

Down here you’ll walk through the labyrinth of offices, bedrooms, conference rooms, and a bunch of other rooms where Winston Churchill & Co. lived and worked during the war. Everything is set up just as it was during the war when they all lived and worked in total isolation and secrecy.

It’s also really cool how they play footsteps and a person whistling like it’s still operational. (That is a total lie – it’s absolutely terrifying when you’re lost in the maze by yourself surrounded by lifelike mannequins.)

AFTERNOON TEA

After exploring the entirety of the War Rooms and the Churchill Museum I caught a cab back over by Westminster Abbey because it was TEA TIME!

Afternoon tea is a 5-day London itinerary MUST. Your options are endless so let me make it easy for you—the Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory -themed afternoon tea at the Chesterfield Mayfair has to be the best.

Why have afternoon tea at the Chesterfield Mayfair?

Well, I wrote an entire post on that too which you can (and should) read here .

I chose the Charlie and the Chesterfield afternoon tea for the fun and unique theme (I freakin’ love Willy Wonka ), everything they offer sounded amazing, I read a lot of great reviews, and they had chocolate tea which is pretty much Heaven in a dainty little cup.

The whole experience was so fun, the food was UH-MAZING and UN-LIMITED, and my afternoon tea turned out to be one of the top highlights of the trip. Seriously, read more about it here ⇣

RELATED POST ─ My complete review of Charlie & the Chesterfield , the Chesterfield Mayfair’s Willy Wonka-themed afternoon tea experience.

SEE A SHOW!

I stepped out of the Mayfair Hotel where a top-hatted gentleman opened a cab door for me. I rolled my overstuffed Violet Beauregard belly into the back seat and said, “Take me back to Trafalgar Square, kind sir!” You see, I’d just had afternoon tea at the Mayfair, I was fancy now.

I walked back into the Original London Visitor Center where I’d purchased my double-decker bus tour a couple days before and demanded a ticket to a Broadway show. Whatever’s cheap to whatever’s good (that I hadn’t seen). Question: Is it still called a Broadway show if it’s in London? Please advise. I left there with a ticket to Kinky Boots and time for a nap beforehand.

Why see a show?

If New York City is the #1 city for live theatre (which it is) then London is #2. I mean, hello?, does the name ‘William Shakespeare’ mean anything to you? The caliber of talent in these two cities is unlike anything you ever thought possible from human beings that aren’t LeBron James. No 5-day London itinerary would be complete without some live theatre. (Spelled -re for obvious reasons.)

London has all the best shows you need to see and you can get tickets to almost all of them the night of and at a huge discount. London’s West End (the theater district) is just a few blocks from Trafalgar Square and, besides, it’s an iconic London activity that requires nothing more than sitting in an upright position with your eyes open.

(I’m looking at the brochure for Kinky Boots as I write this and almost literally wrote “…with your legs open.” That would’ve been hilarious. I shoulda left it.)

Kinky Boots , by the way, was UNBELIEVABLEEEEEE.

5- DAY LONDON ITINERARY | DAY 05

Day 5 of the 5-day London itinerary could be a bonus if you wanted it to be since it doesn’t technically take place in London. There were a couple of day trips I had been considering: Stonehenge (but a whole day dedicated to seeing one thing didn’t appeal to me all that much) and Stratford-upon-Avon for all the Shakespeare history and goodness (but the weather was terrible and this town looks solely like a cute, good-weather town).

I settled on a day trip (it’s really just like 20 minutes away) to Greenwich basically because I wanted to check out the Eastern hemisphere while I was in town. It’s all about efficiency.

BRUNCH AT THE ADMIRALTY

I started my day by sleeping in (🙌🏽) then having brunch at the Admiralty in Trafalgar Square. This Brunch. OMG. For the record, this is my favorite meal out of my entire 5-day London itinerary.

Why have brunch at the Admiralty?

Besides the fact that the restaurant is boat-themed (I LOVE ANYTHING WITH A THEME AHHH), they serve beer + meat pie samplers. Three pies, three beers. Every bit of it was amazing.

ROYAL OBSERVATORY | PRIME MERIDIAN

I left the Admiralty and caught a train to Greenwich—which ones, I can’t remember but here’s  the page on how to get there. I went straight from the train station to the Royal Observatory, an observatory and museum that played a huge part in navigation and astronomy.

That sounds super nerdy but it was cool. It was maybe a half hour walk from the train station, and uphill, so make sure to charge your FitBit so you get credit for this madness.

Why visit the Royal Observatory?

There’s a planetarium, an entire museum dedicated to clocks, navigation, and telling time, and some historic buildings, but I went to stand on the Prime Meridian—the up & down equator, if you will.

The Prime Meridian divides the East and West hemispheres giving Greenwich the coordinates of 00° 00’. It’s also where time starts. For instance, I live in the Eastern time zone which is also written as “GMT -5”. This means Boston’s time is 5 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time, get it?

I found the clock and time museum seriously fascinating and only partly because it also felt like the workshop lair of every creepy scientist in a time-travel flick.

DINNER AT THE MITRE

After coming back down the hill from the Observatory and spending 20 minutes trying to find one particular chippy with no luck, I settled for dinner and beers at the Mitre . I say “settled” because that wasn’t my intended destination but this place was exactly what I didn’t know I needed.

Why have dinner at the Mitre?

Chippy or not, I still got my desired fish and chips and they were more fabulous that I thought food could be from a place named after the Pope’s hat. The place was dark and relaxing and straight up filled with clocks of all kinds. Take it easy here and chill on the last night of your 5-day London itinerary because you have a busy 3 days in Paris coming up tomorrow.

Planning your own 5-day London itinerary? Find great places to stay here . But where do I personally recommend? The Citadines Trafalgar Square . Camera I used for this post?  Olympus OM-D EM-5 Mark II  with  12-40mm  &  40-150mm  lenses What else have I written about London? You can find more London posts here . Like this post? Have questions? Hit me up on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest

WHAT CHANGES WOULD YOU MAKE TO THIS 5-DAY LONDON ITINERARY? LET ME KNOW IN THE COMMENTS BELOW!

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About Ashley Smith

Ashley is a historian and Oktoberfest expert & tour guide. She has traveled to 39 countries and specializes in quick trips throughout Europe and the Americas that prioritize hiking adventures, museums of all kinds, cultural experiences, and jam-packed itineraries. She hails from Memphis, TN and currently lives in Boston with her husband and two feline sidekicks.

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Epic 5 Day London Itinerary for Your First Time in London

Looking for the perfect 5-day London itinerary? This guide provides details on the best things to do and see on your London trip .

Wondering how to plan a trip to London, England? This 5 days in London itinerary is packed with the best things to do and see – tourist hubs, luxury shops and hidden gems!

After being asked numerous times by visiting family and friends about all the things to do in London.

I thought I’d put together a 5 day London itinerary for first-time visitors to give them a head start on how to explore this bustling metropolitan capital that I live in.

Don’t have time to read the whole article? This epic 3 in 1 tour which includes Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off, London Eye and River Cruise tours with a near-perfect ⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating. If you are short on time and what to make the most of your time in London.

From London’s iconic landmarks , its free world-class museums, and coolest neighbourhoods to a long list of popular tourist attractions.

London is a destination every traveller should visit and I’m not just saying this because I live here.

If you’re looking for more on London or planning a trip to the Big Smoke then read my London travel tips guide.

5 Day London Itinerary for First-Time Visitors | How To Plan Your Perfect Trip

If this is your first trip, you can rest assured there are lots of things to do in London for first-time visitors.

A week in England is an ideal time to spend in London as this gives you a chance to explore the city’s best attractions and even enjoy a day trip from London to Oxford or Bath.

You can also read this post on the best day trips from London . I have put together this 5 day London itinerary for London to help you get the most from your time in the city.

It includes things to do in and around London and ensures that you not only see the main tourist sites in London but also have time to experience how the locals live by visiting lesser-known parts of the city like the Borough of Greenwich and the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew in Surrey.

London in 5 days Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

So, I know you’re thinking about how to fill your time in the city. I’ve broken this London itinerary blog post into 5 separate days for you where you’ll know what to do and see.

You can always add or remove things from the itinerary based on your interests. Here is your ultimate 5 day itinerary for London.

Day 1 – 5 Day London Itinerary

Your first day in London should be a welcome introduction and give you a sense of the city for further explorations. Here’s my recommended itinerary of what to do in London in a day.

Grab Breakfast in Covent Garden

Start your five days in London brunching . I’ve written extensively about the best brunch spots in London and the best bottomless brunches in all four areas of London.

So whether you’re staying in central London, like in Covent Garden , or you prefer the gritty hipster vibe of East London there is a restaurant for you to not only grab a good English fry up but also some nice dinners as well.

Check out my guides on the best bottomless brunch Shoreditch , best brunch in London , and best brunch in Covent Garden for ideas on where to eat.

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Starting off your day with a bus tour? No, that wasn’t some lame attempt at a joke. In many places, this wouldn’t be ideal, but this is London.

Taking a bus tour is a perfect, low-key start especially for jet-lagged travellers to get an overview of the city.

From Original Tour to Big Bus, and Golden Tours, there are many companies that offer Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tours , and most of these companies offer multiple routes to allow you to view the endless sites the city has to offer.

Westminster Abbey Icons – St. Paul’s Cathedral | London Eye | Big Ben | Parliament

On your first day in London, you’ll want to go and see some of the most famous icons around Westminster Abbet!

St. Paul’s Cathedral is an iconic feature, and from the top of the dome, visitors can enjoy incredible views and see the place in all its glory.

With your London Pass, you can enjoy all the amazing sights and even visit Westminster Abbey (where Prince William married Kate Middleton) for free.

You could stop by at the iconic Millennium Footbridge to take photos too, with St. Paul’s in the background, pics of the bridge will be worth your time.

The first day is just the tip of your 5 days itinerary in London. If you’re a history buff then check out some of the best historical London walking tours .

If you want to get a photo with no other commuters on the Millennium bridge with St. Paul’s Cathedral in the background, then get up early (6:00am) apart from a few city runners.

You’ll have the bridge to yourselves. Another magnificent view of St. Paul’s Cathedral is from the café in the Tate Modern. If you’ve got time to kill afterwards, check out the Parliament and Big Ben, and the London Eye for a sunset ride.

Day 2 – 5 Day London Itinerary

Foodie? History buff? You’ll love the lineup for day 2 of this 5 Day London Itinerary!

Tower of London

We are starting off the second day with a visit to one of the major highlight places of your London tour. Everyone will enjoy the trip to the Tower of London because of its noble history , especially with King Henry VIII and the crown jewels.

You will read everywhere that it is ideal for you to get here early. Hence, it makes sense you make the trip to the Tower of London the first thing on the list.

With 1,000 years of history, the Tower of London is worth exploring, so get your London Pass ready and get going as early as you can. The Tower of London opens at 9:00 am.

Tower Bridge

No, this is not the London Bridge. The Tower Bridge is a beauty to behold – just walk across the bridge to the other side of the river where you can visit the museum and have a splendid view of the glass floor exhibit.

One of the best things about Tower Bridge is it’s a working drawbridge that is raised up to allow passing ships. This is something worth seeing and is quite entertaining to watch.

It’s a common mistake most people make if they don’t know the difference between the two bridges, made worse by the catchy Fergie song ‘London Bridge’ video with her in a speedboat on the Thames and Tower Bridge in the background.

Let’s say this did not go down well with Londoners.

Borough Market + The Shard

Are you a foodie? No? Do not worry, you’ll be converted to one at this food lover’s heaven. There is a plethora of culinary options you can choose from at the Borough Market .

It’s one of the best markets in London. The market dates to the 12th century, has over 100 stalls and produce is sourced from local British traders and International producers.

For coffee lovers visit Monmouth Coffee Company, and cheese lovers should visit Neal’s Yard Dairy and Kappacasein.

For baked goods go to the famous Bread Ahead.  Visiting Borough Market is one of the many things to do in London for free.

Full market operations begin at 10:00 and end at 17:00 on Wednesday to Saturday. Though the market is usually open on Monday and Tuesday, only a few traders are available.

There are also food tours of Borough Market that you can enjoy.

If you have some extra time, you should also pop over to The Shard for one of the best views in London!

Alternative Day 2 Itinerary – Leadenhall Market + Sky Garden + St. Dunstan-in-the-East

If you want to stay north of the Thames River, you can still enjoy awesome markets and views of London.

Leadenhall Market is just a few blocks from Tower Bridge, where you can shop for apparel and accessories, as well as jewelry and other boutique items. It’s a different feel from Borough Market and might be more what you are looking for.

Once you’re finished, you can head to Sky Garden for gorgeous views of the city or St. Dunstan-In-The-East if you prefer to indulge in some more history near Tower Bridge.

Shakespeare’s Globe

From Borough Market, you can make your way to Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, where you can take a guided tour of the place which will prove helpful as you find your way around.

If you are visiting in the summer, you could go have a feel of the intimate-setting shows in the open-air constructed theatre. To get most of the show, try getting tickets for the front row of the middle gallery.

Camden Market

Camden Market is one of the most popular attractions in London , featuring an array of stalls where you can find a variety of crafts, clothing, and cuisines in fast food spots.

Visiting the Camden Market is a great way to round off activities on your second day in London as you get to enjoy a great mixture of cultures and mouth-watering street food.

If you only have a shorter time in London, why not check out my London 2-day itinerary ?

READ MORE |  THINGS TO DO ALONE IN LONDON

Day 3 – 5 Day London Itinerary

Looking for what to see in London in 3 days? These activities and attractions should be at the top of your list.

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is the administrative headquarters of the Monarch and has been the official residence of British sovereigns since 1837.

The State Rooms are usually open during the months of August and September for a period of 10 weeks.

If you are in town during the summer, ensure you make the trip. If you are not visiting at this time, you could plan a visit to see the Changing of the Guard , which usually starts with a procession at St. James Palace around 11:00 am.

Harry Potter Tour Studio London

The Harry Potter Studio Tour takes place at the Warner Brothers Studios where all the Harry Potter movies were made.

Wardrobes, props, sets, and behind-the-scenes technology are prominent features of the studio.

You can do lots of stuff here: drink butterbeer, fly in an enchanted car or on a broomstick. Harry Potter fans can also stop by Diagon Alley, Hogwarts Express, Dumbledore’s Office, and 4 Privet Drive.

The studio is outside London in Leavesden. You can either take the express train from London Euston in London to Watford Junction (about a 20-minute ride) or take a tour coach there from Victoria Coach Station and make it a coach trip.

Churchill War Rooms

10 minutes away from Buckingham Palace is the Churchill War Rooms – the underground headquarters of the British High Command during the Second World War.

It’s one of the most unusual places to visit in London , but if you like battle history, then visit Churchill War Rooms as it might be the ideal place for you.

Trafalgar Square + Afternoon Tea

It will probably be early afternoon when you are out of the Churchill War Rooms, the perfect time to go to Trafalgar Square in central London .

The hustle and bustle around the area brings the place to life, so just walking around and seeing people pop in and out of shops even feels like a great idea. After some time spent getting a feel of the environment.

You can head to Sketch, one of the trendiest afternoon tea spots in London, for a classic British tea time experience.

Chances are you’ve already got a feel of what this place looks like on Instagram even before your trip to London.

Natural History Museum

The National History Museum is a perfect site for individuals and families of all ages. One of the best natural history museums in the world, the Museum houses a vast selection of specimens collected by Charles Darwin, mammals, and some of the most important minerals on earth.

But the museum is most famous for its exhibition of dinosaur skeletons and its ornate architecture. Visiting a museum is one of the countless things to do for free in London.

National Gallery

The National Gallery, London’s most popular art gallery, is in Trafalgar Square. It is home to British art from the 13th century to 1900, and it could take up to a full day to explore the displays on offer.

If you want to see London from a different perspective, why not explore the city on foot with a walking tour ?

Day 4 – 5 Day London Itinerary

If you’re using this guide to explore London in 4 days, here’s the best way to spend your last day in the city.

Lunch Near Hyde Park

Since the past 3 days have been packed with endless sightseeing, it’s great to have a slightly relaxed last day.

A walk through Hyde Park in the heart of London marks the beginning of your 4th day.

Here you can buy ice cream, feed the ducks, ride a bike, or rent a boat to have a go at paddling around the pond.

If royalty appeals to you, you could visit the residence of the Royal Family and continue in the same direction to stop by for some lunch at the Portobello Road Market.

The market is usually filled with unique antique shops, giving the area a rustic look.

Continue your walk to nearby Notting Hill for a stroll through the charming neighbourhood and take in the colourful houses that Notting Hill is known for. You can even find the famous Notting Hill film locations where the romantic comedy ‘Notting Hill’ was filmed.

Piccadilly Circus

Similar to Times Square in New York City. Piccadilly Circus is a meeting point where several major roads come together.

You will find enormous neon signs that add splashes of colour to the area, along with double-decker buses and cars streaming by.

Yes, you can watch London in the thick of its glory from the steps of the Shaftesbury memorial fountain, which are views to be savoured.

Hampton Court Palace

What a way to round off your fifth day in London! The Hampton Court Palace is a magnificent stretch of red-brick royal buildings – a former home of King Henry VIII .

He developed this grand palace after they acquired it in the 1520s, and these developments have continued throughout the centuries.

Your visit to this palace will be incomplete without a visit to the Cumberland Art Gallery to view the revolving display featuring massive art collections in the court.

British Museum

The British Museum is one of the most historical museums in the world. They amassed the historical collections in the museum during the reign of Great Britain.

Artifacts such as the Egyptian mummies, the Rosetta Stone, hieroglyphics, and a portion of the Parthenon are prominent in the museum.

As a first-time visitor to London, you can get bogged down with all the touristy sites and attractions in London, so I recommend taking time out and visiting spots that are not as popular or in your Lonely Planet’s guidebook.

READ MORE | 17 COOL THINGS TO DO IN SHOREDITCH LONDON BY A LOCAL

Day 5 – 5 Day London Itinerary

Concluding your London trip itinerary, day 5 of this itinerary focuses on some of the less touristy destinations and attractions. The following are some amazing experiences with which to end your adventure.

Non-touristy things to do – London Itinerary for 5 Days

Here are some of the best non-touristy things that you can do in London in five days

Discover Brick Lane

The colourful street art, Sunday markets, and the mix of culture and curry houses along Brick Lane make it a hotbed for London’s art students and street artists. And, it is an ideal site for those looking for a non-touristy place to visit in London.

Visiting Shoreditch in East London is one of the coolest things to do in London. This once-forgotten and derelict part of London is going through regentrification and is now a hub for street artists, hipsters, London’s young entrepreneurs, and creative types.

If you want to have a fun night out in London like a local hit up Shoreditch as it’s far cheaper than going out in Central London.

I recommend checking out The Blues Kitchen, The Book Club, Dinerama and Floripa. You will mostly need Londoners at these places.

Read this post to find out the top things to do in London at night .

Kew Gardens

Based in Zone 5, Kew Gardens is a lovely and serene setting, with over 250 years of history sitting gracefully on 300 acres. Kew is one of the world’s leading botanic gardens.

To see plants from every corner of the world, some even near extinction, then visit the iconic Palm House at Kew Gardens, which has the climate of a rainforest inside or the exquisite Temperate House.

The Kew Gardens are loved by local Londoners and should definitely be on your itinerary of London.

Sir John Soane’s Museum

The former residence of Sir John Soane is one of the finest public museums in London. With over 20,000 architectural drawings including artworks by Turner, Canaletto, and Piranesi, the museum has a lot to offer a first-time visitor.

Day Trip to Greenwich

If you are still wondering what to put on your itinerary for London in 5 days? A day trip to Greenwich is a wonderful way to see a different, more relaxing side of London.

You can take a boat trip to Greenwich on the Thames River cruise . Greenwich Park is also one of the Royal parks in London and a beautiful place to see the cherry blossoms in London if you are visiting in spring.

Greenwich is where you can also see the Royal Observatory and the prime meridian.It is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site which served as a naval hospital before they converted it to a naval college.

They use the site as a filming location for several famous movies such as Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, The King’s Speech, The Dark Knight Rises, and The Avengers.

Check out my post on things to do in Greenwich . View of the National Maritime Museum and Canary Wharf – London, England.

READ MORE | 30 OF THE BEST DAY TRIPS FROM LONDON

Up at the O2

Up at the O2 takes you through an exhilarating 90-minute experience where you can climb over the roof of the most popular entertainment venues in London. You can climb during the daytime, at sunset, or even at twilight.

This is a fun thing to do in London at night as you get some of the best views of London’s skyline all lit up and some of the most famous London buildings you’ll be able to see from Up at the O2 are the walkie-talkie building, The Shard and St Paul’s Cathedral and trust me there isn’t anything like it.

Where to Stay in London

While London is a massive city and one of the most expensive in the world, you can enjoy an amazing trip here without breaking the bank, which is always a  bonus.

As a first-time visitor planning an epic 5 Day London itinerary, you’ll want to stay in or close to central London as this will ensure you are close to the city’s main tourist attractions and not miss out on the many things to do in London at night.

London has hundreds of hotels to suit every traveller and their 5 days in London budget. Below I have included a few of the best hotels in London in some of the coolest neighbourhoods in London.

The Levin Hotel Knightsbridge

In the heart of Knightsbridge, the Levin Hotel is a luxury boutique hotel in London that offers maximum luxury and style. It is one of the most sophisticated accommodation spots in London.

The Levin Hotel has 12 bedrooms, and with its charm and personality, the hotel is a ‘home away from home’ for potential travellers to the famous city of London.

C heck the Latest Prices Here

For a quick 5 day trip to London, look at staying at Hotel 55. Once known as a local brothel, Hotel 55 is a cool and welcoming place featuring abstract paintings that add splashes of attractive colour.

It has three-bedroom types: Cosy, Garden, and Street, with Garden being tiny, great for one but suitable enough for two at a pinch.

The dining area serves mouth-watering Japanese cuisine on the menu. Hotel 55 might be one of the best places to stay in London as it is only two minute’s walk away from North Ealing Tube and is a 30-minute ride to the West End on the Piccadilly Line.

It is a handy accommodation spot for travellers who will exit London through Heathrow. At £74 per night for the double rooms, Hotel 55 is just ideal for the London visitor on a shoestring budget.

  Check Latest Prices Here

The Corner London City

Also known as the most sustainable hotel in London, The Corner London City is a modern mid-priced hotel that features creative designs and uses sustainable practices. The innovative design of the rooms is not only inviting and fun.

They also feature framed art built from sustainable materials, an eco-friendly rain shower, an eye-level television, lighting that can be controlled from the bed, and a natural bespoke mattress.

Other amenities in The Qbic include free Wi-Fi, free tea and coffee, and free bike rentals.  The hotel is just perfect for your 5 day’s visit to London.

Check the Latest Prices Here

London Airbnb

Booking through Airbnb is a top choice for many travellers, no matter where they travel to. I have booked with Airbnb abroad and in London and have been quite satisfied.

Airbnb London is a fantastic way to see inside some of London’s coolest flats and trendiest neighbourhoods and is a great option for first-time visitors that are staying in London for a week.

It is a terrific way to save money and have an incredible experience, as it is usually more authentic and helps you get the feel of what it’s really like to live in the city. It’s also the perfect option for couples, friends, and groups.

If you want to see how the locals live, then check out Airbnb.Airbnb coupon code BONUS: if you’re looking to use Airbnb, you can get a £25 Airbnb coupon by clicking here.  Don’t worry if this is your first time using Airbnb coupons, it’s really easy to sign up.

READ MORE | DETAILED NEIGHBOURHOOD GUIDE ON WHERE TO STAY IN LONDON FOR FIRST TIME VISITORS

Must-Have London Accessories

Having savvy advice from someone who has “been there and done that” is always worth considering if you are planning a trip to London . Here are must-have accessories that may come in handy during your London trip.

A Good Camera

London is a beautiful city. The architecture of the buildings and cute streets will have you wanting to capture everything so bring a good travel camera. Check out my guide to the best travel cameras for optimal photo opportunities.

A Rain Jacket Or An Umbrella

London is known for its unpredictable weather going from a nice bright sunny morning to torrential rain by noon. So, having a lightweight jacket or umbrella will save you from getting soaked if it suddenly rains.

Comfy Shoes And Clothes

London is a walking city; most Londoners love to walk or cycle to get around because it’s faster and cheaper than taking public transport. Packing a pair of comfortable shoes is a must if you want to explore the city or while doing one of many free walking tours in London.

If you are looking for the best travel shoe, then read this post on the best travel shoes and tips on how to choose the best travel shoe.

From stylish walking shoes to the best flats and lightweight shoes for travel, this guide has all your shoe needs covered.

READ MORE| Things To Know Before Visiting London  

Getting Around London – Do I Need an Oyster Card?

London is made up of nine fare zones, with zones 1 and 2 representing Central London and increasing as you go further outside the city. For instance, Heathrow Airport is in Zone 6.

There are several ways you can pay for transport in London including purchasing an individual ticket, buying an Oyster card, buying The London Pass or using a contactless card.

But to make the most of your time in the city, it would be ideal if you buy The London Pass.

Why You Should Get a London Pass

The London Pass is a prepaid card designed to give you free entry to the top tourist attractions in London.

The London Pass attractions list includes Westminster Abbey, the Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour, the Tower of London, the Thames River cruise, and over 80 other London attractions. Making it a useful ingredient for the best London itineraries.

With an optional Visitor Oyster card in addition to your London Pass, it covers all your transportation needs.

The London Pass is a prepaid card designed to give you free entry to the top tourist attractions in London. It’s perfect for your five days in London itinerary.

The London Pass attractions list includes Westminster Abbey, the Hop on Hop off Bus Tour, the Tower of London, the Thames River cruise, and over 80 other London attractions. This makes it a useful ingredient for a great week in London. 

The London Pass is a great option for first-time visitors who want to stick to a budget and save money while still having an amazing time in a famous city like London.

It also allows you to skip the long queues, so you can spend more time sightseeing. If you are looking to hit all of London’s major tourist attractions, buying The London Day Pass is an ideal option.

In this London trip planner for 5 days, I’ve also listed a few of the best things to do in London. These are just a few of the many things to do in London .

Here is your ultimate 5-day London itinerary

Final Thoughts: on Your London in 5 Days Itinerary

It’s no secret that there are tons of amazing things to do in London.

If you’re wondering, “Is 5 days in london enough?” Hopefully, this 5 day London Itinerary shows you that you can fit a lot of the city’s best activities and attractions in a short week.

While five days may not be nearly enough for some people, this itinerary has tried to include something for all travellers.

 While in London, enjoy Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey. Also visit the Tower Bridge, as you simply cannot say you’ve visited London without visiting the Tower Bridge.

Remember to take pictures as proof. For something more relaxing, take a  walk through Hyde Park, one of the best parks in London .

Of course, there are many more things to explore, but these are all some things I would recommend to someone visiting London for the first time. They are some iconic historical monuments that make London so unique.

Struggling with knowing what to do in London?

Grab this hassle free checklist of the top 90 things to do in London from a local, includes:

✅ Top Free Things To In London

✅ Cool Touristy & Non-Touristy Things To

✅ Epic Free Viewpoints

✅ Cute Instagrammable Places in London

CLICK HERE FOR THE GOOGLE MAP OF MY 5 DAYS IN LONDON ITINERARY

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Explore London in 5 days with this ultimate 5-day itinerary

Things to do in London London Travel Guide London Itineraries 5 Day London Itinerary

Have 5 days in London and wondering how to spend it? Check out our exclusive 5-day itinerary designed to showcase the best of the city to any visitor making its way to the United Kingdom capital. Go through this list to discover more.

5 Days in London - How To Spend Your Day

• Day 1 in London  :   Hop On Hop Off Bus, London Eye, Covent Garden  
• Day 2 in London  : Tower of London, Borough Market, Globe Theater
• Day 3 in London  :  Harry Potter Studio Tour, Camden Market
• Day 4 in London  :  Buckingham Palace, Piccadilly Circus, West End Show
• Day 5 in London  :  Notting Hill, Street art in Shoreditch, Up at the O2

London In 5 Days - Detailed Itinerary

Experience the must-see in london.

Hop On Hop Off Bus

Covent Garden

Top London Attractions

Renowned Red Buses

What could be more fun than to explore the breath-taking city on our London open-top Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours ? From museums, palaces, shopping streets, parks to cathedrals we cover all the top-visited sites in your bucket of wander. Begin your journey around London by boarding one of our renowned red buses! You may customize your time in London with 24 or 48-hour passes.

• While you can get an assigned seat on other bus tours and assure that you’ll always have a place to sit, there is no such guarantee on these hop-on-hop-off bus tours. All seats are first-come, first-served, so be sure to be as early as possible.
• Tickets are cheaper when purchased online in advance.
• This service is more about taking your time and exploring each location of interest.Visitors who want a quicker, more efficient experience should consider a different kind of London bus tour.

🇬🇧 Local Travel Tip  🇬🇧  

Try to decide on the places you would like to visit before getting on the bus. Since there are multiple routes, find out where your attractions and places of interest are and board accordingly.

Must Do in London

World’s Tallest Cantilevered Observation Wheel

After consuming scenic views of London, a trip on the London Eye is truly captivating, a ‘must-do’ and has been London’s number one visitor experience for over a decade. Elegantly rotating over the River Thames and less than a five minute stroll from Waterloo station along the beautiful Southbank. Step into your capsule and feel the exhilaration as you rise up over the Thames. Come face to face with the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, before soaring above them - up to 135 meters on the world’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel.

• There’s a fast track option which allows you to pay a little extra to skip to the front of the line, which can be very helpful on busy days when you have other things planned! And who doesn’t like to feel like a VIP, walking past everybody else stuck in the queue?
• While you’re hanging back taking pictures of the loading dock, the rest of the people in your capsule will be snagging the best spots – so try to be the first one in the door! For optimal photo opportunities, you’ll want to be on the far side of the capsule as you come in.

Book fast track tickets to gain entry from a dedicated entrance and skip a majority of the queue. This ticket also gives you access to the Champagne bar and 4D Cinema Experience.

Restaurant Recommendations

The Complete Guide to The London Eye

Must See Destination

London's Premier Tourist Center

Head down to the Covent Garden to immerse yourself in the vibrant must-see destination to stimulate your senses and enjoy shopping, theater, restaurants, bars, history and culture. Filled with restaurants, bars, markets and boutiques, London's premier tourist center offers fabulous shopping by day, and the destination of theatergoers and patrons of the Royal Opera House by night.

• If you are planning to shop in the convent garden, carry a small backpack with you, so you do not have to take lots of shopping bags in your hand.
• Covent Garden is a vast area where you will have to walk around a lot. Always wear comfortable shoes like sneakers or loafers, so your feet do not hurt at the end of your day.
• If you are planning to attend any events, book tickets or them in advance either online or physically. Standing in queues as a tourist is not a pleasant experience.

The Covent Garden has a lot of historical significance for the locals. The best way to explore the locality is to take a thorough tour of all the museums and historic landmarks of the region.

A Blast of London History & Culture

Tower of london, borough market, globe theater.

London's Castle

Infamous Prison

Secure Fortress

We are starting off the day with one of the major trip highlights, the Tower of London ! Even you non-museum people will enjoy because the history of the nobility, especially King Henry VIII, is just fascinating (if you haven’t read The Other Boleyn Girl yet then you’re missing out), the Beefeaters are a trip, and the crown jewels are unbelievable to see up close and personal.

• It does make sense though to do the Tower of London first thing, so even if you’re a bit lazier on the other days, really commit to beating the crowds and arriving before the Tower opens.
• You should definitely skip the audio guide and plan on taking the one hour Beefeater tour because the guides are typically very personable and informative and it doesn’t cost any additional money on top of the ticket price.

A lot of people visit the Tower of London in the afternoon during weekdays, so get there early in the morning to avoid the rush.

Discover a Thousand Years of British History at The Tower of London

Food Lover’s Heaven

Best Markets in London

Are you a foodie? No? Do not worry, you’ll be converted to one at this food lover’s heaven. There is a plethora of culinary options you can choose from at the Borough Market.It’s one of the best markets in London. The market dates to the 12th century, has over 100 stalls and produce is sourced from local British traders and International producers. For coffee lovers Monmouth Coffee Company should be a must visit, cheese lovers should visit Neal’s Yard Dairy and Kappacasein.

• Part of the fun is wandering around, gawking at fresh and strange ingredients, and scouting out prices and quality, so take your time before buying!
• Bring your own shopping bag, made of cloth so it doesn’t rip to shreds from all the goodies you’ll be taking home. Watch that wallet, too—less for the pickpockets—and more for the temptation to buy nearly everything your eyes fall on.

Borough Market & Gin Distillery Small Group Tour

The best time to visit is  between Wednesday and Saturday , when the full complement of traders come to flaunt their wares.

Iconic Open Air Theater

Shakespeare’s Best Loved Works

Discover Shakespeare’s iconic open-air theater, here in the heart of London.London has been a thriving hotbed of theater, filling the playhouses with the work of playwrights new and old. In terms of sheer spectacle though, nowhere can best The Globe, the stunning replica of an Elizabethan playhouse that premiered many of Shakespeare’s best-loved works. Wonder at the craftsmanship and imagine how thousands of Londoners would once have packed in to see the greatest actors of the day.

• Tickets for the shows sell out very fast. That means it is important to buy your ticket in a few days (or weeks!) prior to avoiding any inconveniences at the gate.
• You can choose where you want to sit when booking the ticket and how many seats you want to reserve for the play. If you’re worried about comfort, you can pay for extra cushions. This is especially handy if you get a bad back sitting for a long while.

Wear sensible shoes. You're going to be standing for a while; this is not the place for nine-inch stilettos.

Explore the infamous world of Harry Potter

Harry potter studio tour, camden market.

Top London Attrtaction

Perfect Escape from the Muggle World

“After all this time?” “Always.” There’s no other quote that perfectly encompasses the spirit of the world of Harry Potter. A tour of the Harry Potter Studios is the perfect escape from the muggle world. Sip on some delicious butterbeer and grab a wand before heading to explore the beautiful sets of locations like the Great Hall, Platform 9 ¾ and Dumbledore’s office, along with getting an up-close, personal look at props, popular character costumes and creation of magical creatures like Buckbeak the hippogriff.

• Even if you’ve seen them all 10 times, it can’t hurt to watch them all once more right? It’s bound to make it even more special when you see props or the set from your favorite scene right there in front of your eyes at Harry Potter Studios, London.
• Harry Potter studio tour tickets sell out really quickly, so avoid disappointment and ensure to book them early.
• You’ll travel in groups of 15 people or less, and there are audio headsets available to make sure you don’t miss a thing. So, ask plenty of questions about the movies, the sets, the props, the costumes, the cast and whatever else springs to mind!

If you're looking for lesser crowds,  November to March is the best time to go for a Harry Potter Studio tour. However, if you're looking for a magical experience, you can go for a tour during the Christmas season and witness the magical festivities first-hand.

The Muggle’s Guide To Harry Potter Tours At Warner Bros Studio London

4th Popular Visitor Attraction in London

"Creative Heart of London"

Browse for vintage fashion, handmade jewelry, unusual gifts and eye-catching accessories at Camden Market. If you're not a huge Potterhead you could make a day of it - start with a hearty breakfast at The Basement Tea Room, followed by a spot of vintage clothes shopping at St Cyr Vintage. Stop for a tasty lunch at one of the many cafes and street food stalls including Yorkshire Burrito and Baba G’s Bhangra Burger.

• The easiest way to get to Camden is by tube on the London Underground. The closest station is Camden Town - just a 7 minute walk from the market.
• Shop around before you buy. Whilst there are lots of unique items available at the market, don’t automatically accept that all items are handmade. So shop around before buying because quality and prices do vary throughout the markets.

Camden market is the sort of place you can get lost in and easily spend the whole day there absorbing the energy. However  3 hours for a taste of Camden as a starter trip will allow u to experience the varied food and get a taste this amazing cultured energetic market.

A Day of Fun, Frolic & Sightseeing

Buckingham palace, piccadilly circus, west end show.

World Famous Royal Venue

Working Royal Palace

Take a Buckingham Palace tour to explore one of the most famous royal venues in the world. Enjoy the tour of Buckingham Palace to see the lavishly furnished State Rooms at one of the world's few remaining working royal palaces, see a special display celebrating the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, plus discover some of the Royal Collection's greatest treasures.

• There may be some variations on the opening hours depending on the time of year and the attraction you wish to see i.e. the palace, the gardens or the park. It is wise to double check before going to ensure the attraction you wish to see is open and avoid disappointment.

You are advised to wear comfortable shoes, as the visitor route in summer includes a fairly long walk through the garden to the exit, along a gravel path.

Read This Before Going Inside The Buckingham Palace

Top London Sightseeing Options

Top Landmarks in London

Piccadilly Circus is where many locals and tourists choose to meet because of its privileged location in the heart of London, and as it is close to important leisure and shopping areas.The square is famous for its neon signs, different displays and the Eros fountain located in the middle of this road junction, which is now one of the city’s top landmarks.

• Piccadilly Circus is synonymous with leisure and entertainment. Crowded at all hours of the day, we recommend visiting this square during the afternoon/evening, when the brightly lit advertisements adorning the buildings brighten the intersection, giving it a unique appearance.
• Advertisements adorning the buildings brighten the intersection, giving it a unique appearance. Avoid driving into Piccadilly Circus at all costs as it is an extremely busy area in London (and expensive!) If you're interested in getting some retail therapy done while visiting London, take a stroll down Regent's Street from Piccadilly Circus, and head towards Oxford Street.

One of the most prominent attractions in Piccadilly Circus is  the statue of Anteros on top of a Victorian fountain in the southeast of the Circus .

Unforgettable London Theater

Highest Echelons of Great Theater in Britain

A mesmerizing night out in the glitzy West End awaits with an unforgettable London theater experience. Take center stage in this West End extravaganza as you act, sing and dance your way to the theater where professional acting, singing and dance coaches will teach you extracts from some of the biggest productions in the past 15 years, before your pre-show dinner and a seat at the West End show of your choice.

It is recommended that you queue  as early as 6am on both days , to ensure you get entry and more importantly, a good view of the stage.

Explore London on your Feet

Notting hill, street art in shoreditch, up at the o2.

Portobello Road Market

Famous "Notting Hill" Filmed Here

There is nothing quite like the pastel, candy-colored homes of Notting Hill. Take tons of photos, then do some shopping at the famous Portobello Road market! Stroll through this charming neighborhood and take in the colorful houses that Notting Hill is known for. You can even find the famous Notting Hill film locations where the romantic comedy ‘Notting Hill’ was filmed.

• Please remember and be mindful that people do live here. Be respectful and do not get too close or climb the steps up to the doorways.

Notting Hill is famous for its colored houses and indeed, it's so lovely. Try to go on a  Saturday morning as the famous Portobello Market is being held then.

Hotbed for London’s Artists

Hidden Gem of London's Art Scene

The colorful street art, Sunday markets and the mix of culture and curry houses along Brick Lane, makes it a hotbed for London’s art students and street artists. And, it is an ideal site for those looking for a non-touristy place to visit in London. It is one of the coolest things to do in London. This once forgotten and derelict part of London is going through regentrification and is now a hub for street artists, hipsters, London’s young entrepreneurs and creative types.

• Make a list of the street art trail you'd like to view before heading here, as that will save some time and come in handy!
• There’s a sense of urgency lent by street art as it’s almost always temporary. If you walk the same route from one month to another, you’ll never find quite the same pieces. The temporary nature of street art is part of its appeal, but it’s also sad when a favorite piece disappears forever.

The Eat & Graffiti London Tour

You're within walking distance of prolific street art, great food, markets, funky shopping and off-beat entertainment and hotels.

Adventure Experience

Tourist Attraction in London

Take a walk on the wild side, breathe in the unforgettable expedition over the roof of London’s O2. Suspended above the iconic tent canvas, you and a fellow adventurer will make the 365m journey to the summit, 52m above ground level. Once at the top, you can breathe in the incredible views of London stretching in every direction, and take some epic photos, before heading back down to earth. Tool up with your climb suit, boots and harness - become every inch the urban mountaineer.

• Wear appropriate clothing for the weather. Please note that climbers will be required to wear our climb shoes so socks must be worn.
• You must arrive 15 minutes before your climb time as latecomers cannot be admitted.

Up at The O2 Climb Tickets

Headout Price: £35

The walkway of the ascent has  a steep incline of 28 degrees to the lookout and a steeper decline of 30 degrees on the way back down - all with a soothing breeze in your hair. If this gives you cold feet, worry not.

More London Itineraries

Have some more time to kill in Amsterdam? That's alright, we've got other options for you. Check out our other itineraries for further inspiration:

• 1 Day in London
• 3 Days in London
• The London Trip Planner

The Ultimate London Trip Planner

Public transportation in london.

London is a big city with 20 boroughs but thankfully has a good public transportation network. Of course, the best way to explore the sights here is on foot but this is not always possible.

London’s extensive public transportation system can help you reach wherever you want in the city. The city offers you multiple options to choose from including tube, railway services, buses, cable cars, trams, and taxi cabs.

The Tube, overground rail, and bus services are the most convenient and cheapest way to get around London. You can get an Oyster card to ride on any of these transportation options and reach most parts of the city.

In terms of speed, the underground tube is the best choice. It is quick, flexible and can be availed at a discount using the Oyster card.

For tourists, the red double-decker buses and the riverboat (Thames Clipper) are good choices too. The places where you cannot take underground tubes or overground rail can be reached with the help of the Docklands Light Railway services.

A taxi cab is a quick way to reach your destination but extremely pricey. London is a huge city with attractions spread throughout and not concentrated in a single area. So make sure to know about the transportation options available in the city and how much it would cost you.While you can explore the city by car, the traffic in London is a nightmare. This is why it is best to travel around the city using the metro or the buses.

Public Transportation in London 101

Where to stay in london.

Points of attraction in London are not concentrated around one area, and are widely spread out. This is the reason there is no particular neighbourhood which can be called as the best. Depending upon your areas of interest and budget, you can choose from a variety of nice neighbourhoods to stay in.

• The West End , comprising of areas like Leicester Square, Covent Garden, Mayfair, Piccadilly, Soho, Oxford Street, etc., is a very central district. It is known for its nightlife and has most of the theatres, top art galleries, and high-end shopping places. It has many expensive 4 star and 5 star hotels.
• Bloomsbury is just a walking distance from West End, and has relatively cheaper hotels.
• Victoria , the transport hub of London, forms a good base for sightseeing and has a range of hotels that are not very cheap, but not too expensive either.
• Kensington is well-connected, and has quite a few attractions, along with places to stay for all budgets.
• King's Cross, St Pancras, and Euston are the areas ideal for a budget accommodation or a B&B.
• Paddington and Bayswater are also pleasant areas with quite a few budget properties.
• Haymarket Hotel
• The Piccadilly London West End
• The Nadler Soho
• The Henrietta Hotel
• hub by Premier Inn
• Thistle Bloomsbury Park
• SACO Holborn - Lamb's Conduit St
• Smart Russell Square Hostel
• Grange Lancaster Hotel
• The Harrison Gastro Pub and Hotel
• The Milestone Hotel and Residences
• The Kensington
• Adria Boutique Hotel
• Number Sixteen
• Acacia Hostel
• Point A Hotel, London Paddington
• Hilton London Paddington
• Tudor Court Hotel
• Mercure London Hyde Park Hotel

Tips & Hacks For Making The Best of London In 5 Days

• The English, proud of their rich history and global status, are a courteous and reserved lot. They appreciate politeness and restraint. It is advisable to not be overly familiar with people you do not know. Though, despite their steely appearance, the British are friendly and helpful towards visitors.
• They are not too demonstrative of their affection towards formal people in public so backslapping or touching is not appreciated. They like their personal space and expect you to maintain some physical distance at all public places.
• At a restaurant, you summon a waiter by raising your hand not by waving or shouting. You are also supposed to watch your volume at public places as the British consciously speak softly.
• They follow the Continental table manners holding the fork in the left hand and the knife in the right while eating.
• Use of last name with appropriate title is the way to address people in the UK.
• A handshake is the common way to greet everyone including children. Women are expected to extend their hand first.
• Always hold the door for the person behind you.

15 London Travel Tips & Hacks | The Holy Grail For First-Timers in London

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FAQs: 5 Days London Itinerary

How many days are enough for london.

If you're looking for enough time to be able to enjoy the city, including some "down time" in pubs and parks, etc., I'd personally recommend  at least 6-7 days . But if you just want a taste, you can plan a good itinerary for fewer days. Enjoy your trip! And remember, hopefully you will return many times.

Are 4 days enough in London?

4 days in London is  not enough to experience everything the city has to offer . However, you can cover most of the major sights and still get off the beaten path. This London itinerary is packed full of excursions, but is highly efficient. So, you'll have time to explore each place without feeling too rushed.

Where should a first time tourist stay in London?

Mayfair is the best area to stay in London for first time visitors to the city because of its proximity to Hyde Park, Green Park, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey. The architecture and tiny side streets also make Mayfair one of the most instagrammable spots in London.

Is one week in London enough?

You can do a lot with a full week in the UK capital . Whether you stay here the whole time or spend a day or more further afield, there's no shortage of things that can keep you entertained. I suggest starting with my 6-day itinerary and spending your final day exploring some secret London spots.

How many days do you need in London and Paris?

If you've got enough time, I think the ideal trip is 10 days in Paris and London. This will give you 5 days to explore each city without being in too much of a rush. Obviously, the longer you can spend in each place the better.

My closest mundane mates would describe me as a coffee junkie with momentary bouts of creative highs and mediocre lows. I firmly believe that life isn't picture-perfect but dogs are:) I've always had this insatiable desire for a visual representation of the life around me, it was an intrinsic part, an inbuilt function without which survival would be unimaginable. Have a lovely day ahead folks!

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A Lady in London

And Traveling the World

Lady’s 5 Day London Itinerary

Today I want to share my 5 day London itinerary with you. This is a great amount of time to spend in the UK capital. It will allow you to see the big London landmarks and attractions , explore local areas, and take a day trip while you’re at it. Read on for my guide.

5 Day London Itinerary

I’ve been sharing my recommendations for London itineraries on the A Lady in London blog for a while. From 1 day to 4, I’ve written about the best ways to see the city in whatever amount of time you have.

You’ve told me you like them, so today I’m going to share my 5 day London itinerary . I hope it helps you plan your trips.

5 days is a great amount of time to see London and travel a bit further afield. I recommend starting with my itinerary for 4 days in London and adding a day trip.

There are amazing places to explore within an hour or two of London, and no matter what your interests are or what time of year you visit, there’s a perfect day trip for you.

Day Trips from London

If you’re traveling to London in a particular season and want to take a day trip that’s a good fit for the time of year, I’ve written guides to the best day trips from London in summer , winter , spring , and autumn .

If you’re more concerned about taking a day trip that suits your interests, I’ve written about 15 day trips from London tailored to your preferences. Whether you want legendary castles or picturesque seaside , you’ll find somewhere to love.

I’ve also published blog posts about day trips from London by train and day trips from London by car . They’re great if you have a specific mode of transportation in mind.

I’ve written about more general day trips if you want additional suggestions on how to spend the last day of your 5 day London itinerary, too.

I’ve taken all these trips, and recommend them from personal experience. There’s more about day trips in the beautiful book Escape London: Days Out within Easy Reach of London , too. You can get it here .

5 Days in London

If you can’t get enough of London, I recommend spending the final day of your 5 day London itinerary in one of three ways. First, you can explore another of the neighborhoods in my 4 day itinerary .

You can also look through my blog posts about London neighborhoods and under-the-radar London neighborhoods to find specific areas that fit your interests.

And if that’s not enough, my London travel guide has everything you need to discover more areas of the city.

Second, you can visit one of the hidden or secret museums (or one of the bigger ones if you didn’t have time for all of them in your first 3 days in London ). If the weather is nice, you can also explore the parks and gardens .

Third, you can discover more of the city on foot on the last day of your 5 day London itinerary. I’ve written a number of detailed self-guided walks of London as well as an overview of some walks in popular areas of the city.

Given my favorite way to see London is walking, I can’t recommend them enough. They’ll let you see the side streets and quiet corners that make London one of my favorite cities in the world.

London Itinerary for 5 Days

However you spend your final day in London, I hope you enjoy your stay. This city has so much to do that you’ll be sure to find something to entertain you.

I’m still discovering new places after over a decade of living here, and I know I won’t be done soon.

How about you? What would you include in a 5 day London itinerary?

Find this post helpful? Buy me a coffee!

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12 Comments on Lady’s 5 Day London Itinerary

I can’t wait to plan a good 5 days in London! xx

Nice! I hope you have a good trip when you do.

I was in London for the 4th time at the end of may and we(me, mom and a workmate) was there for 6 days, the first day we went to Twinings then we took a stroll along S:t Katherines Dock, and then ended the day at Marble Arch. The second day began with mom and me taking the underground to Stratford and visiting Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, we spent like three hours there, then in the afternoon we took a stroll in Kensington Gardens. The third day we took the underground to Kew Gardens where we spent a couple hours then in the afternoon we did a bit of souvenir shopping at Harrods and then we took a stroll in Hyde Park. On the fourth day we went to Notting Hill and after that we took the underground to Waterloo and we went to Queen Elizabeth Hall rooftop Gardens after that we took bus number 11 to it’s end station in Fulham and then we took the same bus back. On the fifth day we visited Arsenals home arena Emirates Stadium and did a tour and afterwards we went to Camden. On the sixth day we strolled along Paddington Basin and to Little Venice and then to Merchant’s Square, Paddington. So i would add visiting Kew Gardens, Twinings, Elizabeth Hall rooftop Gardens, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, and Paddington Basin up to Little Venice.

Thanks for sharing your tips!

I’m heading to London and Paris in early October. This is very helpful for planning. So thank you!!! Looking forward to your autumn write up.

I’m glad you found it helpful!

I love your blog! I’ve been in London a lot or times but everytime i plan a new journey I come back here to read your posts. The next London holyday it’t going to be in September and It will be a special One: the first time in London with my twins (10 months old in September). I’m studing itineraries to do with the stroller and pur day trip will be the Kew Gardens (never been before and I can use the boat). Greetings from Italy!

That’s great! I hope you have a lovely trip!

Looking forward to your autumn day trips post. I’ll be in London for the 5th time in Nov for about 9 days and am looking at doing a day trip or two during my visit

That’s great! Stay tuned…

Great post! You’ve covered so many perfect compilations of things to do in a 5 day span. London is so full of great events, a unique history, and a special vibe you just can’t find anywhere else. Thanks so much for putting this list together!

You’re welcome!

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The Best Time to Book a Flight for Domestic, International, and Summer Travel

Here are our best tips for booking travel in 2024.

When to Book Flights for Domestic Travel

When to book flights for international travel, when to book flights for summer 2024 travel, when to book flights for holiday 2024 travel.

Buying plane tickets is something of an art form. Ideally, you want to secure your spot months in advance to avoid the inevitable price spike as your travel dates get closer. But sometimes the best time to book a flight also depends on the destination and whether it's domestic or abroad. The trends are always changing, but experts say the sweet spot for booking domestic flights is 28 days, or 60 days for international flights.

Flights generally open for booking about a year ahead of time, and the airfare will change often between then and takeoff. Although you can book just a couple of weeks before the departure date in some cases, prices are likely to be astronomical. In other cases, when you want to go somewhere popular or during a big travel weekend, flights could fill up faster than normal. Our advice: Track flight prices on Google Flights or Hopper as early as possible so you can keep an eye on cost fluctuations. Read on for more advice about when to book flights from the pros.

According to Expedia's 2024 Air Travel Hacks report , you should aim to book 28 days before your domestic flight. "Doing so can save travelers up to 24 percent compared to those who wait until the last minute, from zero to six days out," Expedia travel expert Christie Hudson tells Travel + Leisure.

For domestic trips, pricing is elevated when tickets are first released, about a year before the flight. Those prices will slowly creep downward, all the way to their lowest point in the prime booking window, after which you'll likely see a huge increase in cost for last-minute travel.

Meet the Expert

Christie Hudson is a travel expert at top booking site Expedia.

You're better off booking earlier rather than later for international travel, but the Expedia report says ideally no more than four months before your desired departure date. The sweet spot is around 60 days. "This is a big change from 2022 data, which showed the cheapest fares were secured when travelers booked four to six months out." Hudson says. "2023 data revealed that people who booked that far in advance actually paid more on average." The report says the least expensive day of the week to book is Sunday and the most expensive is Friday, for both domestic and international travel.

But there is some regional variance. Going , a platform that tracks flight prices and notifies members of good deals, has found the best months to book flights to Africa, Asia, Oceania, Europe, and Latin America, for travel about 60 days out. Here's what it says.

Africa: Book in May.

Asia: Book in August or October, followed by April or September.

Oceania: Book in November, January, or July.

Europe: Book in August, October, or November.

Latin America: Book in October.

The real trick to finding good deals on international airfare is to avoid booking your travel for peak times, which include summer and major holidays (don't forget — that includes holidays in your destination, too).

Summer is traditionally one of the most popular times of the year to travel, which means it can be tough to find a good deal on airfare. Ideally, you should book flights for summer travel as soon as possible, preferably at least six months in advance.

"The best time to book for peak season is … the opposite season," says Katy Nastro, travel expert at Going. "While most of us are scrambling to focus on our winter holiday plans, we should also keep our eyes open for some great summer fares."

She notes that the booking window for peak season ranges between three and seven months for domestic flights and four to 10 months for international trips. "And if you do book something, keep that flight alert on," says Nastro. "If it drops again, depending on your ticket type, you can call to rebook and get a refund or travel credit back with the difference."

Katy Nastro is a travel expert at Going, a website that finds flight deals to more than 900 destinations around the world.

Around the winter holidays is the priciest time to travel, Nastro says. "Your best bet is to remember the Goldilocks zones: look to book between three to seven months ahead for domestic travel and four to 10 months ahead for international travel."

Hudson advises that at the very latest, your holiday travel should be booked by mid-October. "But the biggest holiday travel savings actually come from choosing the right dates," she says. "Avoiding the busiest days like the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Friday and Saturday before Christmas will yield major savings."

Track flights and book your holiday tickets as soon as you find a decent deal, but make sure to book a fare that will give you a credit if you cancel (generally speaking, that means don't book basic economy). That way, if prices drop between the time of booking and your travel dates, you can cancel your original ticket and use the credit to book the cheaper fare. The only downside is you'll still have some remaining credit, but you can then use it to treat yourself to a future flight. Just don't let that credit expire.

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