London United Kingdom 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Iconic Landmarks

Morning

  • Start at Buckingham Palace, the Queen’s official residence, and watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony (daily at 11:30 am from April to July and on alternate days the rest of the year)
  • Take a stroll through St. James’s Park, one of London’s oldest and most beautiful royal parks

Afternoon

  • Visit the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben (now officially known as the Elizabeth Tower), two of London’s most iconic landmarks
  • Take a ride on the London Eye for breathtaking views of the city

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at The Delaunay, a stylish restaurant serving modern European cuisine
  • Catch a show or musical at one of London’s famous theaters, such as the National Theatre or the Palace Theatre

Where to Stay

  • Consider staying in the Westminster area, with plenty of options ranging from budget-friendly hostels like Meininger London to luxury hotels like The Goring Hotel

Day 2: Discovering Museums and Galleries

Morning

  • Visit the British Museum, one of the world’s greatest museums, featuring a vast collection of artifacts from ancient civilizations
  • Explore the nearby Covent Garden area, with its historic piazza, street performers, and eclectic shops

Afternoon

  • Head to the National Gallery, which houses an impressive collection of Western European art, including works by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Vincent van Gogh
  • Stop by Trafalgar Square, a vibrant public space surrounded by iconic landmarks like the National Gallery and St Martin-in-the-Fields church

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Dishoom, a popular Indian restaurant with several locations throughout London
  • Take a sunset stroll along the South Bank of the Thames, offering stunning views of the city skyline

Day 3: Exploring Royal Kensington

Morning

  • Visit Kensington Palace, where Princess Diana and other members of the royal family have lived
  • Stroll through the beautiful Kensington Gardens, adjacent to the palace

Afternoon

  • Explore the Natural History Museum, one of London’s most popular attractions, featuring a vast collection of exhibits on the natural world
  • Take a walk in nearby Hyde Park, one of London’s largest and most scenic parks

Evening

Day 4: Exploring Trendy East London

Morning

  • Visit Brick Lane Market, a vibrant and eclectic marketplace filled with street food, vintage shops, and independent boutiques
  • Explore the nearby Shoreditch area, known for its street art, trendy bars, and hip restaurants

Afternoon

  • Take a stroll along the Regent’s Canal, a picturesque waterway lined with houseboats and scenic walkways
  • Visit the V&A Museum of Childhood in Bethnal Green, showcasing a collection of childhood artifacts and interactive exhibits

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at The Blues Kitchen, a lively restaurant serving Southern-inspired comfort food
  • Explore the nightlife scene in Shoreditch, with its many bars, clubs, and live music venues

Day 5: Exploring Historic Greenwich

Morning

  • Visit the Cutty Sark, a historic tea clipper ship turned museum
  • Explore the nearby National Maritime Museum, showcasing Britain’s rich maritime history

Afternoon

  • Take a stroll through the charming town of Greenwich, with its picturesque streets, quaint shops, and historic pubs
  • Visit the Royal Observatory, located in Greenwich Park, which offers stunning views of the city skyline

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at The Old Brewery, a gastropub serving seasonal British cuisine
  • Take a scenic ferry ride along the Thames back to central London, offering a unique perspective on the city’s landmarks

Things to Know

  • London is a vast and sprawling city; consider purchasing a Visitor Oyster Card or using contactless payment for convenient travel on public transportation
  • Be prepared for variable British weather; pack layers and waterproof gear
  • Many museums and galleries offer free admission, but some may require timed-entry tickets or have limited hours

Transportation

  • The London Underground (Tube) is an efficient way to navigate the city, with many lines running frequently throughout the day
  • Consider purchasing a Visitor Oyster Card for discounted fares on public transportation
  • Black cabs and ride-hailing services like Uber are also widely available

Tips

  • Be mindful of pedestrian traffic and follow local customs when navigating busy streets and sidewalks
  • Take advantage of London’s many free museums and galleries, but be prepared for crowds during peak tourist season
  • Don’t be afraid to ask locals for directions or recommendations; Londoners are known for their friendly and helpful nature

Other Things of Interest

  • Consider taking a guided tour or walking tour to delve deeper into London’s rich history and culture
  • Look out for seasonal events and festivals, such as the Notting Hill Carnival or the London Marathon
  • Take a day trip to nearby destinations like Oxford, Cambridge, or Windsor Castle for a change of pace and scenery