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London, the capital of England and the UK, welcomes around 30 million visitors from all over the world each year. There's so much to see and do here, from iconic sights like the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace to amazing museums, beautiful parks, and trendy neighborhoods. We created this London itinerary guide to help […]
London, the capital of England and the UK, welcomes around 30 million visitors from all over the world each year. There's so much to see and do here, from iconic sights like the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace to amazing museums, beautiful parks, and trendy neighborhoods. We created this London itinerary guide to help you decide what to see first.
Whether you’re here for just a day or planning a longer stay, this guide will help you find your way around and discover the best this city has to offer.
Tower of London
With just one day to explore, it’s essential to focus on some of London’s most iconic sights. Here’s a streamlined itinerary that captures the essence of what the city has to offer:
9:00 AM–10:30 AM: Tower of London and Tower Bridge
Start your day at the Tower of London, where centuries of history await (entry £35.80). Spend about an hour and a half exploring its grounds and viewing the Crown Jewels. Afterward, take a short walk to Tower Bridge for stunning views of the Thames and the city.
11:00 AM–12:00 PM: Borough Market
Head to Borough Market next, a foodie haven where you can sample street food, indulge in local cheeses, or grab a pastry and coffee for a quick bite.
12:30 PM–1:30 PM: Buckingham Palace
Make your way to Buckingham Palace. Enjoy the ambiance of the area and, if time permits, catch the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony. Be sure to snap some photos of the palace and its beautiful gardens.
2:00 PM–3:00 PM: Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament
From Buckingham Palace, make your way to Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament (Westminster). Marvel at the stunning Gothic architecture of the iconic clock tower and the historic buildings surrounding it. This area is perfect for capturing some classic London photos.
3:30 PM–4:30 PM: The London Eye
Next, head to the London Eye (tickets are £29 or approximately $37.50 if bought online). The 30-minute ride offers unbeatable views of the cityscape, especially as the afternoon sun begins to set, and it’s a fantastic way to see many of London’s famous landmarks from above.
5:00 PM–6:30 PM: Harrods
After your ride, take a short taxi or Tube ride to Harrods, one of the world’s most famous department stores. Spend some time browsing the luxurious shops and gourmet food halls — whether window shopping or making a small purchase, it’s an experience in itself.
7:00 PM onwards: Dinner in Soho
Conclude your day with dinner in Soho, known for its eclectic dining scene. Choose from a range of international cuisines, whether you fancy classic British fare or something more exotic. Soak in the lively atmosphere as you relax after a full day of exploration.
Hyde Park
If you have a little more time to spend in London, take advantage of the opportunity to explore its vibrant neighborhoods, rich cultural offerings, and hidden gems. Here's how to make the most of your time:
Follow the one-day itinerary above to cover the essential landmarks.
Morning: Start your day at the British Museum, one of the world’s most renowned cultural institutions (free entry, open 10:00 AM–5:30 PM). Explore its vast collection, which includes treasures like the Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles, and ancient Egyptian artifacts. Be prepared to spend a few hours immersing yourself in history.
Afternoon: After your museum visit, consider taking a walk to Covent Garden. This lively area is known for its shops, street performances, and vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy browsing boutique stores, watching street entertainers, or simply soaking in the buzz at the market. You can also stop for lunch at one of the many cafes or restaurants.
Evening: For dinner, head to Kensington, where you’ll find a variety of dining options. From cozy bistros to upscale restaurants, there’s something to suit every taste. Enjoy a meal at a restaurant that focuses on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, or choose a classic British pub for a more casual experience.
Morning: Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through Hyde Park, one of London’s largest and most famous parks. Walk along the Serpentine Lake, visit the Diana Memorial Fountain, and enjoy the beautiful landscape. After Hyde Park, head to Kensington Gardens to see the splendid Kensington Palace and its lovely gardens.
Afternoon: Visit Westminster Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich history (entry £30). Discover the final resting place of many British monarchs and notable figures, as well as the stunning Gothic architecture. If you're short on time, consider just taking photos and appreciating the exterior.
After your visit, treat yourself to a delightful Afternoon Tea at a historic hotel, such as The Ritz or Claridge's. This quintessentially British tradition is a wonderful way to relax and recharge, complete with scones, finger sandwiches, and a selection of fine teas.
Evening: For your evening entertainment, you have two fantastic options:
Windsor Castle
The first three days of this itinerary are the same as the three-day itinerary, allowing you to cover essential landmarks and cultural highlights.
Morning: Visit Notting Hill and stroll through its charming streets. Explore the colorful houses and vibrant stalls at Portobello Road Market (especially lively on Fridays and Saturdays).
Afternoon: Head to Camden Market to experience a unique mix of food stalls, shops, and lively street art. It’s a great place for a leisurely lunch and to soak in the local vibe. You can also enjoy live music at one of the nearby venues or pop into quirky shops.
Evening: After enjoying lunch in Camden, take some time to explore the neighborhood’s unique shops and street art. Then, consider visiting a nearby area such as Shoreditch, Soho, or Southbank for dinner.
Option 1: Consider a day trip to Windsor Castle, located just an hour from London by train. Explore the castle, which is the oldest inhabited castle in the world, and wander through the beautiful grounds.
Option 2: Visit Greenwich, where you can tour the Royal Observatory and stand on the Prime Meridian. Explore the charming town and enjoy a picnic in Greenwich Park with its stunning views of the city skyline.
London features a variety of hotels to cater to all types of travelers and budgets, ensuring you're close to the city's main attractions. Here are three recommendations across different budget categories.
Source: Booking.com
The Savoy is an outstanding option situated on the Strand. With its opulent rooms and unmatched service, this hotel provides a truly luxurious experience. Nightly rates begin at approximately $1,037, making it an ideal choice for those who want to indulge in elegance and comfort.
Source: Booking.com
The Hoxton, Shoreditch combines modern design with convenience. Starting at approximately $300 per night, this trendy hotel provides a comfortable base close to vibrant nightlife and a variety of dining options.
Source: Booking.com
YHA London St. Paul’s is a fantastic budget option. It offers comfortable dormitory and private room accommodations, with prices starting at $70 per night. Conveniently located in the city center, this hotel provides easy access to major attractions without breaking the bank.
If you’re visiting London or the UK in general, you can benefit from an eSIM for seamless connectivity. With an eSIM, you can enjoy easy data access without needing to swap physical SIM cards.
Explore some of the top UK eSIM providers in the table below and find the plan that works best for you.
| Provider | Pros | Cons | Price | |
 | Holafly | Easy activation, unlimited data, 24/7 customer support | Does not support hotspot sharing | from $6.90 (unlimited data) |
 | Maya | Reliable connection, easy setup | No app, no unlimited data plans | From $2.70 |
 | Saily | Excellent customer support, security features | No voice calls, no unlimited data plans | From $4.49 for |
The best time to visit London is from June to August. During these summer months, the weather is warmest, and it offers the sunniest and most enjoyable climate for exploring the city. While it is peak season and can be busier with tourists, the pleasant weather makes it worth it.
Must-see attractions include the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, the British Museum, the London Eye, and Westminster Abbey. Each offers a unique perspective on London’s rich history and culture.
The London public transport system is extensive and includes the Tube (underground trains), buses, and trains. An Oyster Card or contactless payment card is recommended for easy travel and to save on fares.
Yes! Many of London’s museums, including the British Museum and the National Gallery, are free to enter. Additionally, parks like Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens offer beautiful outdoor spaces to explore without any cost.
The best global eSIM provider
From $2.3/week
A reliable eSIM provider for budget travelers
From $2.4/week
The best global eSIM provider
From $2.3/week
A reliable eSIM provider for budget travelers
From $2.4/week
Our mission is simple: to make sure you never have to ask, “What’s the WiFi password?” again. All our tips come straight from personal experience — because we’d never recommend something we haven’t put to the test ourselves.
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