Home » 5 Days in London: The Ultimate First-Timer’s Itinerary

5 Days in London: The Ultimate First-Timer’s Itinerary

tower bridge
Booking.com Search Flights Image

If it’s your first time visiting, here’s a perfect day London itinerary to help you experience the best of the city in five action-packed days. From the grand Buckingham Palace to the magical Harry Potter Studio, you’ll enjoy a well-rounded mix of history, sightseeing, and unforgettable experiences. This is a jam-packed itinerary as there is so much to do and see in London that it is hard to fit it all in just 5 days (but we will try).

Planning your trip to London?

Let me help you:
E-sim –  Airalo
Airline Tickets –  CheapOair 
Car Hire –  DiscoverCars 
Travel Insurance –  Safetywings 
Visa – Ivisa 

Powered by GetYourGuide

Day 1: Welcome to London – Explore the Heart of the City

Start your adventure with a bang by diving into the city’s iconic sights.

Morning: Buckingham Palace & Changing of the Guard

Buckingham palace

Midday: St. James’s Park & Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey

Afternoon: The London Eye & River Thames

London Eye

Evening: Covent Garden

Wrap up the first day in Covent Garden. This lively area has street performers, quirky shops, and excellent restaurants. Whether you fancy a traditional British meal or something exotic, Covent Garden has something for every palate. Afterwards, you can take in a West End show to complete the evening.

Convent Gardens

Day 2: London’s Cultural Treasures

Today is all about exploring London’s wealth of culture, from art museums to historic sites.

Morning: The British Museum

The British Museum
Photo by Viktor Forgacs on Unsplash

Midday: Churchill War Rooms & Trafalgar Square

Afternoon: Harry Potter walking Tour

Powered by GetYourGuide

Evening: Soak in the Atmosphere

Finish your day in Soho, a neighbourhood known for its lively nightlife and excellent restaurants. Soho has it all, whether you’re in the mood for a quiet dinner or a night out. Afterwards, relax with a drink at one of the many bars or enjoy a late-night comedy show.

Day 3: Royalty and Iconic Landmarks

London is home to many royal landmarks, and today, you’ll discover their rich history.

Morning: Tower of London & Tower Bridge

Midday: Borough Market

After visiting the Tower, head to Borough Market, one of London’s most famous food markets. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re after a fresh sandwich or a hearty British pie. The market is an excellent spot to grab lunch and enjoy the bustling atmosphere.

Powered by GetYourGuide

Afternoon: Kensington Palace

Kensington Palace

Evening: South Kensington

Day 4: Hidden Gems and Quirky Neighbourhoods

On your fourth day, take a break from the typical tourist sites and explore some of London’s lesser-known but equally charming spots.

Morning: Camden Market & Regent’s Canal

camden market
Photo by Javier Martinez on Unsplash

Midday: Notting Hill & Portobello Road Market

Notting Hill

Afternoon: Traditional Afternoon Tea

For a delightful experience, indulge in a traditional afternoon tea at a lovely spot in Notting Hill or nearby Kensington. Enjoy a selection of teas, finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a variety of sweet treats—perfect for a quintessentially British experience.

Evening: Theatre in the West End

Conclude your day by heading to the West End for a theatre show. With a variety of performances to choose from, including musicals and plays, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of London’s theatre district as you wrap up your adventurous day.

London theatre

Day 5: Parks, Shopping & Farewell to London

Your final day in London is relaxing in the city’s beautiful parks and enjoying the ultimate shopping experience.

Morning: Hyde Park

Begin your day by taking a leisurely stroll through Hyde Park. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes, serene lakes, and famous landmarks like the Serpentine and the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain. The park provides a lovely backdrop for relaxation and reflection after a busy day.

hyde park

Midday: Oxford Street & Regent Street

After exploring the parks, head to Oxford Street for a shopping spree. You’ll find everything you need with world-famous department stores like Selfridges and countless high street shops. For luxury brands, head to Regent Street.

oxford st

Afternoon: Final Stroll & Relax

Take one last walk around the city, soaking in the atmosphere of London’s charming streets. If you’ve got time, pop into any museums or galleries you may have missed during the week.

V and A museum

Evening: Goodbye, London

End your adventure with a memorable farewell. Head to a rooftop bar for drinks and enjoy the city skyline view. London’s dazzling lights will leave you with memories you won’t forget!

London never fails to impress. With this 5-day itinerary, you’ll see all the highlights and discover hidden gems, making the most of your first time in the city. From the Harry Potter Studio Tour to Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and the River Thames, you’ll experience the best of what London offers. Enjoy every moment of your adventure and take home memories to last a lifetime!

Pin it for later

London itinerary

You May Also Like

Author

  • Paula Barreca Barnes

    So 17 years ago, my husband and I set off with our little family in tow, embarking on a short-term assignment in Taiwan. Although without any knowledge of expat life or the Taiwanese culture, we took the chance and decided this would be an exciting little adventure; little did we know it changed the direction of our lives forever.

    View all posts

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *