London is widely recognized as one of the top places to visit around the Globe. This five-day itinerary is ideal for individuals going to London for the first time and wanting to get the most out of their trip by seeing the city’s top attractions and experiences.
This schedule for London covers some of the city’s best museums, shopping, monuments, and architecture. Covent Garden, which is the most popular neighborhood in London. Soho is great for nightlife, arts, and culture.
South Kensington is best for families, museum lovers, and history buffs. Mayfair, which is best for luxury and romance. Camden is best for those on a budget, and South Bank is an excellent neighborhood for tourists.
Day 1 in London
St. Paul’s Cathedral
It is an instantly recognizable element of the London skyline and offers breathtaking panoramas from the observatory atop the dome. Visitors also have the option of going underneath to explore the crypts.
Free admission to St. Paul’s Cathedral is one of the benefits of purchasing a London Pass. The climb to the Golden Gallery consists of 528 steps. You must wear comfy shoes since the climb is well worth it so you can enjoy the beautiful vista at the summit.
Millennium Bridge
One of the most interesting bridges in the city is this pedestrian footbridge that spans the river. In addition to that, it appeared in several of the Harry Potter films.
Take pictures while standing on the bridge with St. Paul’s Cathedral in the backdrop for a unique vantage point. You must stop by the bridge either during the day or at night.
Tate Modern
The Tate Contemporary Museum in London, United Kingdom, displays modern art. Admission is free, and the museum has a significant collection of modern art that dates from the 1900s to the current day.
The café within the Tate Modern has a breathtaking panorama over London. The museum is open later on Fridays and Saturdays than during the week.
Shakespeare’s Globe
This third theater was rebuilt after the first Shakespeare’s Globe, which was built in 1599, was discovered. It is the only Globe theater that has been preserved to the present day; nevertheless, it is a little more compact than the original Globe.
Free admission to Shakespeare’s Globe is one of the benefits of purchasing a London Pass. You may see a performance of one of Shakespeare’s plays here if you come during the regular season. In addition, remember to go on a tour of the theater if you’re interested in learning more about its background.
Borough Market
Borough Market is considered one of London’s most popular food marketplaces, with over one hundred different booths and stands. You should get some fresh vegetables, bread, and cheese so that you may have a delectable picnic or prepare dinner if the place you are staying has a kitchen. There are also hot lunches that may be taken away from you.
Day 2 in London
Trafalgar Square
Any visitor to London for the first time must stop at this square, which is home to Nelson’s column and the recognizable stone lions. As it might become rather crowded later in the morning, get to the National Gallery approximately 20 minutes before it opens.
National Gallery
The National Gallery is also among the top famous art museums in the world. It is also free to enter. Arrive as soon as the museum is open since it might be reasonably crowded when the tour groups arrive in the morning. It is also open on Fridays if you want to go late at night.
Covent Garden
There are many shops, restaurants, theaters, and free street entertainers in this well-liked market in London. So come here for lunch and take in the lovely setting.
British Museum
The remarkable collection in the British Museum covers more than two million years of human history. The most incredible collection of antiquities outside of Cairo is also housed there. The Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies, and Pantheon statues should be noted.
Oxford Street, Regent Street and Carnaby Street
Some of London’s greatest high-end and luxury shopping can be found on these streets. So even if you don’t like to shop, it’s worth simply looking around and wandering the streets.
Piccadilly Circus
It is a well-liked public area in London that is often featured in movies. After shopping, relax here and observe the folks. From here, tourists may easily visit Regent Street, Piccadilly, or Soho.
Day 3 in London
The view from the Shard
One of the most breathtaking views in London can be seen from the top of the Shard. The highest structure in Western Europe is this one. To avoid crowds, aim to visit this place between 10:00 am and 12:00 pm in the early morning.
Westminster Abbey
This magnificent 700-year-old structure is a must-see in London, with over one million tourists yearly. Kate Middleton and Prince William were married here as well.
Buckingham Palace
Since 1837, Buckingham Palace has served as the sovereign of Britain’s royal home. It serves as the Monarch’s administrative center as well. Get there early (at least 15 minutes early) to get a good viewing location for the changing of the guards.
Victoria & Albert Museum
The biggest museum dedicated to decorative art and design is the Victoria & Albert Museum. Visit the Garden Café at the museum for afternoon tea.
Natural History Museum
Discover facts about animals, dinosaurs, minerals, and the planet at one of the world’s top natural history museums—ideal for groups of all ages and families.
Day 4 in London
Tower of London
Despite its negative image, the Tower of London has a rich history dating back over a thousand years. Visit on a weekday morning early. The Crown Jewels chamber was empty when I visited in the morning in November.
Tower Bridge Exhibition
Discover how this well-known bridge works, traverse the glass floor and take in the breathtaking views from the summit. Pay attention to the engine room, which is covered by the admittance fee.
St Dunstan in the East
The church, built about 1100, suffered significant damage from the Great Fire of 1666 and the Blitz of 1941. However, the ruins in this city park are still accessible to tourists today. People often may be seen eating their lunch on one of the seats. Visitable if you like ruins.
Monument
The monument commemorates the 1666 Great Fire of London. An excellent perspective of the Tower Bridge awaits you after you have ascended the 311 steps to the summit.
Leadenhall Market
This Victorian-covered market, built in 1881, is a must-see attraction in London. In the afternoon, have lunch or go shopping in the area. Leadenhall Market may seem familiar to Harry Potter fans since it served as the backdrop for several outside Diagon Alley shots in the movies.
Camden Market
Browse vendors that offer a range of goods, crafts, and fast food at one of London’s most popular attractions. A tasty mashup of street cuisine from several nations.
Day 5 in London
Portobello Market in Notting Hill
It is one of the busiest marketplaces in the world and a great place to visit for visitors and residents. It could be familiar to you from the film Notting Hill. Although you may browse the antique stores any day of the week, Saturday is the best day to go.
Hyde Park
This royal park, one of the biggest in the city, is a lovely destination in London any time of year. The Winter Wonderland is open to guests throughout the Christmas season.
Marble Arch
John Nash built and designed this marble arch in the 19th century, a famous landmark in London. However, only members of the Royal family, the Royal Horse Artillery, and the King’s Troop were permitted to pass through the arch when it was first situated close to Buckingham Palace. Today, however, people are allowed to pass through the arches.
London’s King’s Cross Station / St Pancras Station
Platform 9 34 is located at King’s Cross Station and is a must-see for every Harry Potter enthusiast. To avoid standing in line, arrive early.
Conclusion
If you’re planning on visiting London for the first time, this 5-day itinerary is perfect. From visiting iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey to getting a taste of British traditions like afternoon tea and shopping, this itinerary covers all the bases.
