Planning the perfect 5-day London itinerary can be overwhelming with so many iconic sights to see and hidden gems to discover. However, as a local who’s spent years exploring every corner of this historic city, I’ve tested and refined this exact schedule to maximize your time while avoiding tourist traps.

This comprehensive London travel guide covers all the essential London tourist attractions while balancing popular landmarks with authentic local experiences. Specifically designed for first-time visitors, this London itinerary includes Westminster Abbey, the Tower of London, charming neighborhoods, and even day trip options. Additionally, I’ve updated everything for 2025, including the latest opening hours, transportation tips, and newly opened attractions.

By following this day-by-day plan, you’ll experience the perfect mix of history, culture, food, and relaxation without the exhaustion that comes from poor planning. After all, London deserves to be experienced, not just visited. Let me show you how to make the most of your five days in one of the world’s greatest cities.

Day 1: London’s Iconic Landmarks

Your London adventure begins where the heart of British history beats strongest. First-time visitors often feel a sense of déjà vu when these famous silhouettes appear in real life after seeing them in countless films and photographs.

Westminster Abbey and Big Ben

Start your morning at Westminster Abbey, the magnificent gothic church where British monarchs have been crowned since 1066. Inside, you’ll find Poets’ Corner, where literary giants like Shakespeare and Dickens are commemorated, alongside the tombs of royalty and notable Britons. Book tickets online ahead of time to avoid queues that typically form by mid-morning.

Just across Parliament Square stands the Elizabeth Tower (commonly known as Big Ben), attached to the Houses of Parliament. Though Big Ben refers specifically to the bell inside the tower, the whole structure makes for an essential photo opportunity. For an insider tip, position yourself on Westminster Bridge for that perfect shot with the Thames in the foreground.

London Eye and South Bank Walk

Cross Westminster Bridge to reach the South Bank, where the London Eye dominates the skyline. This giant observation wheel offers unparalleled 360-degree views of the city. Despite being relatively new (opened in 2000), it has become one of London’s most beloved attractions. Consider pre-booking a “fast track” ticket if visiting during peak season.

After your ride, stroll eastward along the Thames on the South Bank Walk. This vibrant riverside promenade features street performers, food stalls, and cultural venues like the Southbank Center. The walk provides constantly changing perspectives of the city skyline, making it perfect for photography enthusiasts.

St. Paul’s Cathedral and Millennium Bridge

Continue your journey eastward toward St. Paul’s Cathedral, Sir Christopher Wren’s masterpiece that has stood watch over London since 1697. The cathedral’s massive dome is an architectural marvel—climb the 528 steps to the Golden Gallery for spectacular views across London’s skyline. Don’t miss the Whispering Gallery, where a whisper against the wall can be heard clearly on the opposite side of the dome.

From St. Paul’s, make your way to the sleek Millennium Bridge, a pedestrian-only suspension bridge that perfectly frames the cathedral when looking back from the South Bank. This modern structure, nicknamed the “Wobbly Bridge” when it first opened, connects to the Tate Modern art gallery on the opposite bank—worth a quick visit if you have time and energy left.

Tips for using the Tube and contactless payment

Mastering London’s public transportation will make your entire stay more enjoyable. The Underground (known as “the Tube”) is the fastest way to travel between major attractions. For today’s itinerary, the Circle and District lines connect most of your destinations.

Rather than purchasing individual tickets, use a contactless payment card or smartphone for the best value. Simply tap in and out at the yellow card readers. The system automatically calculates the cheapest fare for your day’s travel and caps the total at the daily limit.

During rush hours (roughly 8-9:30 AM and 5-6:30 PM), trains become extremely crowded. If possible, adjust your schedule to travel outside these times. Furthermore, always stand on the right side of escalators to allow Londoners in a hurry to walk past on the left—a cardinal rule that locals greatly appreciate when visitors observe.

By day’s end, you’ll have experienced several of London’s most iconic landmarks, setting the stage perfectly for tomorrow’s royal-themed adventures.

Day 2: Royal Parks, Palaces, and Museums

Day two of your London adventure immerses you in the royal heritage and cultural riches that define the city’s character. From tranquil green spaces to magnificent palaces, this portion of your 5-day London itinerary balances outdoor exploration with cultural discovery.

Morning walk through Hyde Park and Green Park

Begin your day with a refreshing stroll through London’s royal parks. Hyde Park, with its 350 acres of greenery, offers a peaceful escape from urban hustle. Enter near Hyde Park Corner and make your way toward the Serpentine, the park’s large recreational lake. Continue eastward to reach Green Park, which has been part of London’s royal landscape since it was first recorded during Mary I’s reign. Originally known as Upper St James’s Park, it officially became The Green Park in 1746 [1].

As you walk through Green Park, you’ll approach Constitution Hill, which was straightened in 1827 to create a processional route into the Mall outside Buckingham Palace [1]. This tree-lined royal processional route honors Queen Victoria and is frequently used for ceremonial events like royal weddings and state visits [2].

Buckingham Palace and Changing of the Guard

Arrive at Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the reigning monarch since 1837 [3]. For the highlight of your morning, position yourself for the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony. This time-honored tradition typically takes place at 11:00 AM on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, weather permitting [3]. The ceremony lasts approximately 45 minutes, with soldiers gathering at St James’s Palace and Wellington Barracks from 10:00 AM [4].

Insider tip: Arrive at least an hour early to secure a good viewing spot. The ceremony can sometimes be altered or canceled at short notice, especially in wet weather, with decisions made as late as 10:45 AM on the day [4].

British Museum or Churchill War Rooms

For your afternoon cultural immersion, choose between two outstanding options:

The British Museum offers free entry to one of the world’s greatest collections. Consider joining the “Around the World in 90 Minutes” guided tour that begins at 11:30 AM or 2:00 PM [5]. This tour introduces you to spectacular sculptures from ancient Greece, Egyptian artifacts, and many more highlights.

Alternatively, visit the Churchill War Rooms, the secret underground headquarters where Winston Churchill directed Britain’s World War II efforts. Allow at least two hours to explore the historic Cabinet War Rooms and Churchill Museum [6]. Audio guides are included with your admission, providing insights into what life was like for those working beneath London’s streets during the war [6].

Evening in Covent Garden or Soho

As daylight fades, head to Covent Garden, which comes alive with new energy at night. The area offers various evening activities:

• Catch a performance at the Royal Opera House
• Enjoy drinks at a rooftop bar like Radio Rooftop or Henrietta Hotel
• Explore historic pubs—the Lamb and Flag dates back to the 17th century and was once frequented by Charles Dickens [7]

Alternatively, wander into adjacent Soho, the center of London’s thriving nightlife scene. This trendy district is packed with restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. Neither area has traditional “sights” but both offer vibrant street culture that attracts younger visitors to the capital [8].

By the end of day two, you’ll have experienced the perfect blend of royal pageantry, historical immersion, and contemporary London culture—essential components of any comprehensive London travel guide.

Day 3: Tower of London and the East End

The third day of your London experience takes you eastward to explore the city’s medieval heritage alongside modern architectural marvels. This contrast between old and new perfectly captures London’s ever-evolving character.

Tower of London and Crown Jewels

Begin your morning at the iconic Tower of London, where nearly 1,000 years of history await. The Crown Jewels, housed here since 1661, comprise a magnificent collection of 23,578 gemstones that form part of the Royal Collection [9]. These aren’t merely museum pieces—many items are still used in royal ceremonies today. The Imperial State Crown, worn by King Charles III during his coronation procession, is among the treasures on display [9].

Allow at least three hours to fully appreciate this UNESCO World Heritage Site [10]. Pre-booking tickets online is advisable to avoid queues, with prices at £35.80 for adults and £17.90 for children in 2025 [10].

Tower Bridge and the Engine Rooms

Just steps away stands Tower Bridge, London’s most recognizable river crossing. The glass-floored walkways offer breathtaking views of the Thames [11]. For the full experience, take a guided tour led by expert guides who bring the landmark to life with stories about its history and the people who built it [12].

Don’t miss the Victorian Engine Rooms where you can see the original machinery that once powered the bridge’s lifting mechanism [11].

Lunch at Borough Market

For a culinary adventure, head to nearby Borough Market, one of London’s best food markets. With countless stalls offering everything from artisanal cheeses to international street food, the market serves as both a feast for the eyes and stomach [13].

Notable stops include:

• Richard Haward’s Oysters for freshly shucked bivalves at a fraction of restaurant prices
• Kappacasein Dairy for what many consider London’s best cheese toastie
• The Black Pig for doorstop-sized pork sandwiches that drip with flavor [14]

Sky Garden or Garden at 120

Afterward, choose between two remarkable free viewing platforms. Sky Garden, London’s highest public garden, requires booking tickets approximately three weeks in advance for its 38th-floor panorama [15].

Alternatively, Garden at 120 offers London’s largest rooftop terrace just two minutes away with no booking required—simply walk in [15]. Though only 15 stories high, it offers excellent close-up views of landmarks like Tower Bridge and The Shard [15].

Optional: Jack the Ripper Tour or Thames Cruise

As evening falls, consider one of two classic London experiences. The Jack the Ripper tours, led by expert guides who have written books on the subject, take you through the cobbled alleyways of Whitechapel where the infamous murders occurred [16].

Otherwise, a Thames River cruise offers a different perspective of London’s landmarks. Companies like Thames River Sightseeing provide informative commentary as you glide past icons such as St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Houses of Parliament [17].

Day 4: Day Trip Outside the City

Option 1: Windsor Castle and Eton

Just 35 minutes by train from London Paddington lies Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world [18]. Founded by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, this official royal residence boasts over 900 years of history [18]. Explore the magnificent State Rooms, visit St. George’s Chapel (where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle married), and witness the Changing of the Guard if your timing allows [19].

Across the river sits historic Eton College, easily reached on foot from the castle. Complete your visit with a relaxing Thames sightseeing cruise or explore Windsor’s charming cobbled streets [19].

Option 2: Harry Potter Studio Tour

For wizarding world enthusiasts, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour offers an immersive behind-the-scenes experience. Located in Leavesden, it’s accessible via direct 20-minute train services from London Euston to Watford Junction [20]. From there, dedicated shuttle busses transport visitors to the studios.

Walk through authentic sets including the Great Hall and Diagon Alley, view original costumes, and discover the secrets behind special effects [21]. Tickets must be purchased in advance, with prices starting from £56 in 2025 [22].

Option 3: Bath and Stonehenge

For history buffs, this combination offers two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in one day. Bath, with its Georgian architecture and Roman roots, is approximately 1 hour 20 minutes by train from London Paddington [23]. The famous Roman Baths and stunning Royal Crescent are must-see attractions.

Stonehenge, with its mysterious 5,000-year-old stone circle, can be reached via shuttle bus from Salisbury train station [24]. Many organized tours combine both destinations for convenience [25].

How to choose the right day trip for you

Consider your primary interests: royal history (Windsor), movie magic (Harry Potter), or ancient history (Bath/Stonehenge). Factor in travel time—Windsor is closest to London, making it ideal if you prefer a half-day excursion with more time in London afterward [26].

For families with children, the Harry Potter Studios offers interactive exhibits. Conversely, history enthusiasts might prefer Bath and Stonehenge. Many tour companies offer combination packages with transportation included, which eliminates logistical concerns [25].

Day 5: Neighborhoods, Markets, and Afternoon Tea

For the final day of your 5-day London itinerary, immerse yourself in London’s eclectic neighborhoods, browse iconic markets, and indulge in a quintessentially British tradition.

Morning in Notting Hill and Portobello Road

Start your day in the colorful district of Notting Hill, famous for its pastel-painted townhouses and charming streets. Saturday mornings are ideal for exploring Portobello Road Market, the world’s largest antique market stretching over two miles throughout London’s West End [27]. Arrive between 8-9:30am to avoid crowds yet experience the market in full swing [28].

Wander among over 1,500 dealers selling everything from vintage clothing to antiques, artwork, and street food [27]. Don’t miss the colorful houses along Portobello Road that featured in films like “Notting Hill” [29].

Kensington and South Kensington museums

Subsequently, head south through Kensington to reach South Kensington, home to several excellent free museums [30]. The Victoria and Albert Museum houses spectacular art and design collections, particularly strong in British design and decoration [31]. Next door, the castle-like Natural History Museum offers fascinating exhibits including dinosaur animatronics and the beautiful Visions of Earth gallery [31].

Afternoon tea at The Ampersand or The Lanesborough

Midday presents the perfect opportunity for a proper afternoon tea experience. Choose between:

The Science Tea at The Ampersand – This science-themed tea includes a tea tray bubbling with dry ice and themed treats served in the Drawing Rooms [30]. It costs £59.50 per person (£39.50 per child) [32].

Alternatively, The Lanesborough offers an elegant afternoon tea in a gorgeous conservatory-style tea room, potentially “London’s prettiest afternoon tea” [30]. Advanced bookings for both are highly recommended [30].

Evening in Camden or a canal boat ride

Finally, hop on the Tube to Camden Town with its distinct alternative, punk-inspired atmosphere [30]. Explore the vibrant Camden Market offering everything from unique boutiques to global street food [29].

Consider ending your London experience with a 45-minute canal boat ride between Camden and Little Venice along Regent’s Canal [33]. These trips pass through London Zoo and the Maida Hill tunnel, offering unique perspectives of the city [33]. Booking is recommended to avoid disappointment, particularly on weekends [33].

Conclusion

After five days exploring London’s magnificent sights and hidden corners, you’ll have experienced the perfect blend of iconic landmarks and authentic local gems. This carefully tested itinerary ensures you make the most of your time while avoiding the exhaustion that comes from poor planning.

Throughout your journey, you’ve witnessed centuries of royal history at Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace, admired architectural marvels like St. Paul’s Cathedral and Tower Bridge, and discovered the distinct character of neighborhoods from Notting Hill to Camden. Additionally, you’ve sampled culinary delights at Borough Market and enjoyed the quintessentially British tradition of afternoon tea.

First-time visitors often rush through London, checking landmarks off their list without truly experiencing the city. This itinerary, however, provides a balanced approach that allows you to appreciate both world-famous attractions and local favorites. The day trip options also give you flexibility based on your personal interests, whether you prefer royal history at Windsor Castle or ancient mysteries at Stonehenge.

London changes constantly yet remains timeless. New attractions open while centuries-old traditions continue. This guide reflects the city as it stands in 2025, though the magic of London lies in discovering your own special places along the way.

Remember that Londoners generally appreciate visitors who respect local customs – standing on the right side of escalators, speaking quietly on public transport, and queuing patiently. These small courtesies will enhance your experience and interactions with locals.

The perfect London trip combines famous sights with unexpected discoveries. You might find your favorite memory comes not from Westminster Abbey or the Tower of London, but from a conversation with a shopkeeper in Camden Market or the moment you turned a corner to find a picture-perfect London scene that wasn’t in any guidebook.

Take this itinerary as your foundation, but allow yourself time to wander and discover. London rewards curious travelers who look beyond the obvious. Your five days here will certainly leave you wanting to return for more adventures in this extraordinary city.

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