The Perfect 5 Day London Itinerary: Best Things To Do In London

London, the beating heart of the United Kingdom, is a city where history, culture, and modernity intertwine in the most fascinating way.

With iconic landmarks like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and the London Eye sitting beside vibrant food markets, world-class museums, and trendy neighborhoods, London is a destination that never ceases to amaze.

But here’s the thing London is huge.

With so much to see and do, planning the perfect itinerary can be overwhelming, especially if you only have 5 days. That’s why I’ve crafted this detailed 5-day London itinerary that balances iconic attractions with hidden gems, ensuring you experience the best of London without feeling rushed.

Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, this guide will help you make the most of your time in the city.

Amazon Finds You’ll Love:
Before you jet off to London, I’ve hand-picked a few affordable travel gear gems from Amazon that’ll help your trip feel smoother.

Day 1: Classic London Highlights

Your first day in London is all about hitting the classics think Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and a stroll along the Thames. You’ll be walking a lot, soaking up royal charm, and dodging the occasional drizzle (because, well… London).

Start your morning at Westminster Bridge for that postcard-perfect view, then catch the Changing of the Guard before wandering through St. James’s Park. Wrap up your day with a sunset ride on the London Eye it’s touristy, but completely worth it.

1. Buckingham Palace & The Changing of the Guard

• Why go? Buckingham Palace is the official residence of the King, and no London trip is complete without seeing it.
• What to do: Arrive around 10:15 AM to get a good viewing spot for the Changing of the Guard (usually at 11:00 AM, but check the schedule in advance). The pageantry, with its marching bands and guards in their red tunics and bearskin hats, is quintessentially British.
• Pro Tip: Bring a zoom lens if you want clear photos the crowds can be intense.

2. Westminster Abbey

• Highlights: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this Gothic masterpiece has hosted coronations since 1066. It’s also the final resting place of kings, queens, poets, and scientists like Isaac Newton and Charles Darwin.
• Must-see: The Poets’ Corner, Coronation Chair, and the stunning stained glass windows.
• Cost: Around £27 for adults if booked online.

3. Big Ben & The Houses of Parliament

• Photo Spot: Stand on Westminster Bridge for the iconic shot of Big Ben (Elizabeth Tower) with a red London bus passing by.
• Inside Tours: Available on select days, but must be booked in advance.

4. London Eye

• Why go? For panoramic views of the Thames and London skyline.
• Tip: Book skip-the-line tickets to save time; sunset rides are especially magical.
• Duration: 30 minutes per rotation.

5. Evening: Thames River Cruise

• End your day with a scenic cruise. You’ll see landmarks like Tower Bridge, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Shakespeare’s Globe lit up at night.

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Rainmate Compact Umbrella – Because London weather likes surprises.

Skechers Go Walk Slip-On Shoes – Super comfy for long days of sightseeing.

Travelon Anti-Theft Crossbody Bag – Stylish and secure for navigating crowds.

Day 2: Royal London & Museums

Today’s all about history, art, and a touch of royal glamour.

Start your morning at Kensington Palace, where you can stroll through the peaceful gardens before heading to the Victoria and Albert Museum and Natural History Museum both absolutely free and full of fascinating exhibits.

After soaking up culture, take a royal-themed walk around Hyde Park and maybe indulge in afternoon tea at The Ritz or a cozy café nearby. It’s a classy way to experience London’s timeless charm.

1. Tower of London

• Why visit? A medieval fortress, former prison, and execution site packed with history.
• Highlights: The Crown Jewels, Yeoman Warder (Beefeater) tours, and the Ravens of the Tower (legend says the monarchy will fall if they leave).
• Allow: At least 3 hours.

2. Tower Bridge

• Walk across and visit the Glass Floor Walkway for a thrilling view. The Tower Bridge Exhibition also explains its engineering marvel.

3. St. Paul’s Cathedral

• Must-do: Climb the Whispering Gallery and then up to the Golden Gallery for breathtaking city views.
• Fun fact: Sir Christopher Wren’s masterpiece survived the Blitz of WWII.

4. British Museum

• Free Entry! Home to treasures from across the world, including the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles.
• Pro Tip: The museum is massive; pick 2–3 sections or you’ll get overwhelmed.

5. Evening in Covent Garden

• Street performers, boutique shops, and cozy restaurants make this the perfect spot for dinner. Try Dishoom Covent Garden for Indian-British fusion food.

Amazon Finds You’ll Love:

Portable Phone Charger (Anker PowerCore): You’ll need it for photos, maps, and that inevitable Instagram scroll between exhibits.

Matein Travel Laptop Backpack: Perfect for carrying your essentials while exploring museums sleek, water-resistant, and lightweight.

Contigo Autoseal Water Bottle: Stay hydrated without spills during long sightseeing hours.

Day 3: Markets, Modern London & Culture

Day three takes you beyond the royal walls and into London’s vibrant, modern side. Start your morning at Borough Market, where you can snack your way through artisan cheese, pastries, and fresh coffee (trust me, go hungry!).

From there, stroll along the South Bank, pop into Tate Modern, and cross the iconic Millennium Bridge for that “movie moment” view of St. Paul’s Cathedral.

As the day winds down, explore Covent Garden or Shoreditch for art, street performances, and cool vintage finds. It’s the perfect blend of culture, color, and creative energy.

1. Borough Market

• Why go? London’s most famous food market, with stalls selling everything from fresh oysters to artisan cheese.
• Must-try: A grilled cheese sandwich from Kappacasein Dairy.

2. Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre

• Catch a play if you can, or take a guided tour of this authentic reconstruction of Shakespeare’s theater.

3. Tate Modern

• Located in a former power station, it houses modern art by Picasso, Warhol, and Hockney.
• Free entry, though special exhibitions may cost extra.

4. Millennium Bridge

• A pedestrian bridge connecting Tate Modern with St. Paul’s Cathedral Harry Potter fans will recognize it from The Half-Blood Prince.

5. Evening at South Bank

• Stroll along the Thames, with views of the skyline, street performers, and lively pubs.

Amazon Finds You’ll Love:

Small Travel Camera (Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II): Compact and ideal for capturing street scenes and market life in crisp detail.

Baggu Reusable Shopping Tote: Stylish, foldable, and perfect for market days.

Sony Wireless Noise-Canceling Earbuds: Block out city noise while you wander or relax in a café.

Day 4: Day Trip Options

Time to take a breather from the city buzz and experience a bit of England beyond London! Whether you hop a train to Windsor, Oxford, or Bath, each destination offers its own dose of charm think castles, cobblestone streets, and classic English countryside views.

If you head to Windsor, don’t miss Windsor Castle, home to centuries of royal history. Prefer Oxford? Wander through the university’s dreamy courtyards that inspired Harry Potter.

Bath lovers can relax among Roman ruins and Georgian elegance. No matter where you go, this day promises a refreshing change of pace.

1. Windsor Castle

• The oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world home to British royalty for over 1,000 years.

2. Oxford

• Wander through historic colleges, see the Bodleian Library, and walk in the footsteps of famous alumni like Tolkien and C.S. Lewis.

3. Stonehenge & Bath

• Combine mysterious Stonehenge with the elegant Roman baths in Bath.

4. Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour

• A must for Potter fans walk through the Great Hall, Diagon Alley, and ride a broomstick in front of a green screen.

Amazon Finds You’ll Love:

Bose SoundLink Micro Bluetooth Speaker: Small, waterproof, and perfect for enjoying some tunes during downtime.

ZOMAKE Lightweight Packable Daypack: Folds into a tiny pouch yet fits everything you need for a day trip.

Sony Compact Travel Umbrella: Perfect for unpredictable English weather.

Day 5: Neighborhoods & Local Vibes

Your final day in London is all about soaking in the city’s personality the bits that make it feel like home rather than just a stop on your itinerary.

Wander through Notting Hill with its pastel-colored houses and weekend market, or explore Camden Town for street food, vintage stalls, and live music vibes.

If you prefer something more laid-back, grab a coffee in Greenwich, stroll by the river, or visit Portobello Road Market for that perfect “London souvenir.”

Wrap up your trip with a cozy pub dinner and toast to five incredible days well spent.

1. Notting Hill

• Famous for pastel houses, the Portobello Road Market, and of course, the movie Notting Hill.

2. Kensington

• Visit the Victoria and Albert Museum, Natural History Museum, or stroll through Hyde Park.

3. Camden Market

• A quirky mix of food stalls, vintage shops, and live music.
• Try the street food at KERB Camden Market.

4. Shoreditch & Brick Lane

• The heart of London’s street art scene. Don’t miss works by Banksy.
• Great for vintage shopping and Indian curry houses.

5. Evening Farewell at Sky Garden or The Shard

• End your trip with panoramic views over the city.
• Sky Garden is free, but book tickets in advance.

Amazon Finds You’ll Love:

Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 Instant Camera: Capture candid street shots and create instant memories from your final day.

Allbirds Women’s Tree Runners / Men’s Wool Runners: Ultra-comfy sneakers perfect for all-day city wandering.

Levi’s Lightweight Denim Jacket: Stylish and ideal for layering in London’s ever-changing weather.

Practical Tips for Visiting London

1. Get an Oyster Card – Best way to save money on transport.
2. Stay Central – Areas like Covent Garden, South Bank, or Westminster save travel time.
3. Free Museums – Many London museums are free (Natural History, Science Museum, British Museum).
4. Weather Prep – London weather is unpredictable; always carry an umbrella.
5. Book in Advance – London Eye, Harry Potter Studios, and West End shows sell out fast.

FAQs

Q: Is 5 days enough for London?
Yes, 5 days lets you see the highlights, though you’ll always want to return.

Q: Best time to visit London?
Spring (April–June) and Autumn (September–October) have mild weather and fewer crowds.

Q: Can I use contactless instead of an Oyster card?
Yes—your debit or credit card works the same way on the Tube and buses.

Conclusion

London is a city of endless discovery. In just 5 days, you’ll experience royal palaces, world-class museums, vibrant markets, and charming neighborhoods all while soaking in the city’s unique blend of tradition and modernity.

Whether you’re strolling through Hyde Park, enjoying street food at Borough Market, or marveling at the Crown Jewels, every moment in London leaves you with memories to cherish.

So pack your bags, grab your Oyster card, and get ready for an unforgettable London adventure.