Nadia Fauzi

London is a city that never stops surprising me, even after nearly a decade of calling it home. Its blend of history, culture, and vibrant modern life makes it one of the most dynamic destinations in the world. Whether you’re here for the iconic landmarks, world-class museums, charming neighbourhoods, or the incredible food scene, London has something for everyone.

Planning a visit to a city as sprawling as this can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. After hosting countless friends and family over the years, I’ve fine-tuned the perfect 4-5 day itinerary to help you make the most of your trip. This guide includes must-see landmarks, hidden gems, the best ways to get around, and some personal tips to experience the city like a true Londoner.

No matter if you’re traveling solo, with family, or with friends, there’s always something in London for everyone to enjoy.

If you’re planning a 5-day trip to this incredible city, this guide is tailor-made for you.

The plan is designed to explore the city on foot and via London’s efficient public transport system, as I believe that’s the best way to experience it. Whether it’s your first time in England’s capital or one of many visits, this guide is here to help you make the most of your stay. Packed with essential tips and local insights, it has everything you need to prepare for an unforgettable 5 days in London!

London itinerary guide

Getting around: The best ways to navigate London are on foot or using public transport.

When to visit: London is fantastic year-round, though you can always count on the weather being a bit unpredictable.

Ideal for: Food enthusiasts, history buffs, art lovers, and anyone who enjoys a great musical or theatre performance.

Pro tips: Plan and book your hotels and tours 3-4 months in advance. And no matter the season, be sure to carry an umbrella or wear a hooded jacket—it’s essential!

5-Day London itinerary

Day 1 | Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace, St James’s Park, Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey
Today, you’ll explore the heart of Westminster and Covent Garden. Start with Trafalgar Square, then head to Buckingham Palace to catch a glimpse of the British monarchy’s iconic residence. You can plan your visit to coincide with the formal Changing of the Guard ceremony, held several days a week, for a classic royal experience. If you prefer, simply enjoy the view of the monarch’s London residence from outside the impressive gates. Should your trip align with the annual seasonal opening, you’ll also have the opportunity to tour Buckingham Palace. This includes access to the state rooms, gardens, and a special exhibition. Tickets can be booked here.

Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the serene St James’s Park, a beautiful green space with views of the palace. From there, it’s just a short stroll to Parliament Square in Westminster, where you’ll find some of London’s most iconic landmarks, including Big Ben (officially known as Elizabeth Tower). You’ll also encounter Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament. If your schedule allows, consider taking a tour of the Abbey or The Parliament to delve deeper into their rich history. As evening falls, head to Soho, Covent Garden, or Mayfair, where you’ll find plenty of dining options to suit every taste. To round off your day, enjoy a West End show. Popular choices include Les Misérables, Hamilton, Mamma Mia, The Book of Mormon, The Lion King, or Matilda.

Day 2 | Tower of London, Tower Bridge, Borough Market, Tate Modern, St Paul’s Cathedral and Sky Garden
Experience both ancient and modern London, starting with historic sites like the Tower of London (arrive early to avoid crowds) and see the Crown Jewels, then move to contemporary art at the Tate Modern. Tate Modern is a renowned art museum with free entry, making it easy to explore at your own pace, whether you have a little time or a lot. The upper floors also offer fantastic views worth checking out.

Walk across Tower Bridge for great photos. This remarkable example of Victorian engineering is among London’s most striking landmarks. You can stroll across it and, if you wish, take a self-guided tour to the upper levels for a unique perspective. Cap off the day with a stunning garden view from the top of the Sky Garden! Make sure to book your Sky Garden tickets early, as access is free but requires a reservation. The Sky Garden is open weekdays from 10am–6pm and weekends from 11am–9pm. Tickets can be booked up to three weeks in advance.

Day 3 | British Library, British Museum, Natural History Museum, King’s Road and Sloane Square, High Street Kensington and Notting Hill
Start your day with visits to two of London’s most iconic museums—the British Library and the British Museum—featuring world-renowned collections. The British Museum is vast enough to fill an entire day of sightseeing in London, so it’s best to focus on the exhibits that interest you the most. Admission is free, allowing you to explore at your own pace. For first-time visitors, the Rosetta Stone and the Egyptian galleries are often highlights not to be missed.

Afterward, immerse yourself in the wonders of the Natural History Museum, home to its famous dinosaur skeletons. If museums aren’t your thing, South Kensington offers fantastic shopping opportunities. Explore the boutiques along Fulham Road and Brompton Road, or head to the King’s Road in Chelsea for a chic retail experience. For a more leisurely stroll, walk down Sloane Street and venture into Belgravia if time allows. Elizabeth Street, known for its stunning floral displays, is a must-see and worth making a special trip. End your day in the charming neighbourhood of Notting Hill, with its colourful houses, quaint streets, and famous Portobello Road Market.

Day 4 | Thames River Cruise to Greenwich, Greenwich Park, Royal Observatory, Cutty Sark, Harrods and Fortnum & Mason, high tea or dinner at Sketch or Claridge’s
Start the day with a scenic Thames River Cruise (or Uber Boat) to Greenwich, where you can explore the stunning Greenwich Park. Enjoy views of the city, and visit the Royal Observatory to stand on the Prime Meridian line. Greenwich is a haven for history enthusiasts and astronomy buffs. Boasting an impressive concentration of museums, it feels like a cultural treasure trove within the UK capital. It’s also home to the Royal Observatory, famously associated with Greenwich Mean Time. Don’t miss the iconic Cutty Sark, a 19th-century clipper ship now a museum. You can tour it if you want to, or just peer into it from the glass outside.

After returning by boat or train, indulge in a classic London shopping experience at Harrods and Fortnum & Mason, two of the city’s most famous luxury department stores, and don’t miss the incredible Harrods Food Halls. Finish your day with a refined high tea or a gourmet dinner at one of London’s iconic dining destinations—Sketch or Claridge’s—for a truly unforgettable experience.

Day 5 | Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens and Palace, Primrose Hill, Hampstead Heath and Marylebone High Street
Take a leisurely walk through Hyde Park, London’s largest and most famous park. Explore the adjacent Kensington Gardens and visit Kensington Palace, the former residence of Princess Diana. The Serpentine in Hyde Park is a lovely spot to stroll around, and the Diana Memorial Fountain is also well worth a visit.

Afterward, make your way to Primrose Hill for stunning panoramic views of the city skyline. Continue your exploration in Hampstead, a charming area known for its picturesque streets and Hampstead Heath, where you can enjoy nature and great views over London. Located in North London and easily accessible by tube, Hampstead is perfect for those who love the charm of an English village within the city.

Begin your visit with coffee or lunch on Hampstead High Street, or try one of the excellent cafés tucked away on Flask Walk or Perrin’s Court. Whether you choose a classic Italian spot like Villa Bianca or a beloved Japanese place like Jin Kichi, you’ll be spoiled for choice. After lunch, take a stroll through Hampstead Heath, where you can enjoy panoramic views of London from Parliament Hill. You might also want to visit Kenwood House, a grand stately home that’s well worth exploring.

End your day by discovering Marylebone High Street, a chic neighbourhood brimming with boutique shops, stylish restaurants, and charming cafés.

When is the best time to visit London

Let’s be honest, the UK isn’t exactly known for its amazing weather, but we do get our fair share of gorgeous days, especially in summer. Spring brings the city to life with streets lined in blossom, and crisp autumn days are a delight (though you should always be ready for rain).

That said, London is fantastic year-round. The city’s wealth of indoor activities ensures there’s always somewhere to duck inside if it starts to rain.

Christmas is another magical time to visit, with department stores competing for the most spectacular window displays and Regent Street sparkling with festive lights.

Tip: For first-time visitors, May to October offers the best weather and the busiest city events. If you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of April-May or September-November.

Getting to London from the airport

Wherever you arrive in London, I highly recommend using the train or tube services whenever possible. London’s roads are notoriously congested, and sitting in traffic is a frustrating way to spend your time.

From Heathrow, the Heathrow Express will take you to Paddington in just 15 minutes. Alternatively, the new Elizabeth Line offers a faster and more efficient route across London compared to the Piccadilly Line, which used to be the only tube option.

For those flying into Gatwick, the Gatwick Express gets you to Victoria Station in just 15 minutes. Thameslink trains also serve other London stations from Gatwick, although they take a bit longer.

If you’re arriving at Stansted, the Stansted Express will get you to Liverpool Street Station in 50 minutes.

All other London airports also have train connections to the city, making rail travel the quickest and most reliable option.

Getting around in London

Many people worry about navigating London, but it’s easier than you might think. I personally love walking—it’s my preferred way to explore—but London’s public transport system is one of the best in the world.

London Underground (the Tube)
The Tube is usually the fastest and most efficient way to travel longer distances in London. Each line is colour-coded and has a unique name, such as the Northern Line to Hampstead. Once you’ve identified your line, maps on the platforms will guide you to the right direction and stops. It might seem a bit daunting at first, but you’ll quickly get the hang of it.

Tip: Download the Citymapper app to easily navigate the Tube and plan your journeys. It’s a lifesaver for getting around London efficiently.

London buses
Buses are a fantastic way to see more of the city while travelling, though they can be slower, especially during rush hour. Each route is numbered, and there are also night buses that run across the city. I personally enjoy using buses for shorter trips or when I want to soak in the sights.

Payment options
You can pay for both the Tube and buses with a pre-loaded Oyster card or a contactless credit/debit card. Just tap and go, simple and convenient.

Taxis
Taking a black cab is a quintessential London experience, but it’s pricier than you might expect due to strict fees and regulations for drivers. Uber has recently returned to London, but I’d only recommend it if you’re heading somewhere off the public transport grid or have a lot of luggage.

Thames ferries and water taxis
A lesser-known but fantastic way to travel is by ferry along the Thames. These are part of the public transport network and offer stunning views of the city from the river—a fun and scenic alternative.

Walking
Walking is my favourite way to get around London. Sure, your feet might be tired by the end of the day, but nothing beats the experience of discovering hidden streets, unexpected sights, and charming restaurants along the way. It’s the best way to truly connect with the city’s vibe and uncover little gems you’d miss on public transport.

What to pack for 5 days in London

What to pack for London largely depends on when you’re visiting. The city experiences all four seasons, so what you bring in December will be very different from what you’d pack for a July trip.

Always check the weather forecast before you head out, but don’t stress if you forget something; London has an abundance of shops where you can easily pick up what you need.

Here’s a general packing list for 5 days in London:

• A camera to capture all your memorable moments in the city!
• A stylish day bag so you won’t have to make extra trips back to your accommodation
• Comfortable shoes for all the walking you’ll be doing
• A smart outfit for theatre visits, dining, or drinks in the evening. Keep in mind that some places, including clubs and traditional establishments, may have a dress code
• A sweater. Regardless of the season, London evenings tend to get chilly, even in the summer months
• An umbrella and a raincoat. While we like to say it doesn’t rain all the time in England, it’s always better to be prepared!
• If your luggage allows, smart waterproof ankle boots are a great idea for unpredictable weather

Tips and tricks for a local Londoner experience

• Get an Oyster card or use contactless payments for cheaper fares on the Tube, buses, and trains. However, do avoid switching between contactless on your phone and a physical card during the same day as each counts as a separate payment method. Alternating could result in double charges or hitting the max fare cap twice. Stick to just one for the whole day to save money!
• A fare-paying adult can travel with up to 4 children under 11 free of charge. Your child doesn’t need a photocard to travel free on buses, tubes, DLRs, Overground, Elizabeth Line and some National Rail services
• Avoid rush hour (7:30–9:30 AM and 4:30–6:30 PM) to save time and avoid crowded commutes. It’s also cheaper to travel during off-peak hours
• The daily off-peak cap for Zone 1–Zone 2 is £8.50. Once you hit the cap, you can use the Tube, buses, and other transport services as many times as you want that day without being charged extra
• While major attractions are must-see, don’t miss hidden gems like Neal’s Yard in Covent Garden, Little Venice, or the Barbican Conservatory
• Many museums, such as the British Museum, Natural History Museum and Tate Modern, are free to visit
• For paid attractions, book tickets online in advance or use combo passes like the London Pass to save money and skip queues
• London’s weather is famously unpredictable, so always carry a compact umbrella
• Dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.
• Explore food markets like Borough Market or Camden Market for diverse and affordable options
• Many attractions are close together, so walking not only saves money but also lets you experience London’s charm up close
• Use apps like Citymapper or Google Maps to find the best walking routes
• Popular attractions like the London Eye or Tower of London are less crowded early in the morning
• Avoid weekends for busy spots if possible, and book tickets online to avoid long lines
• Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas
• Stick to reputable services like Uber or licensed black cabs for transport

While no London itinerary can ever be truly perfect, I hope this 5-day guide has been helpful in planning your trip! If you notice anything that’s out of date or have a fantastic suggestion you think should be included, I’d love to hear from you.