A Perfect One-Week Itinerary for Exploring London

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Central London

Start your week by arriving in central London. Depending on your time of arrival, take a leisurely stroll around some of London’s iconic landmarks like Trafalgar Square and Piccadilly Circus. These bustling areas are filled with cafes, shops, and street performances, giving you an immediate taste of the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

Head to Covent Garden for lunch and explore the surrounding areas. In the evening, consider catching a show in the West End, London’s theatre district, which is world-renowned for its spectacular productions.

Day 2: Historical London – Westminster and the Thames

On your second day, delve into London's history by visiting Westminster. Start at the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, and then move on to Westminster Abbey, where British monarchs are crowned and buried. From there, take a scenic walk along the River Thames to see the iconic London Eye and take in panoramic views of the city.

After lunch, cross over the Thames to the South Bank. Visit the Tate Modern art gallery or Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre for a cultural afternoon. End the day with a riverside dinner while enjoying views of Tower Bridge.

Day 3: Royal Palaces and Parks

No visit to London is complete without exploring its royal heritage. Start your day at Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch. Time your visit to see the Changing of the Guard ceremony. Afterwards, take a stroll through St. James’s Park, one of London’s most beautiful green spaces.

In the afternoon, head to Kensington Palace, the former residence of Queen Victoria and current home to members of the royal family. Enjoy a relaxing walk through Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park, two of London’s largest parks.

Day 4: Museums and Culture in South Kensington

Spend day four immersing yourself in culture. South Kensington is home to some of London’s most famous museums. Start with the Natural History Museum, famous for its dinosaur exhibits, and then move on to the Victoria and Albert Museum, which houses an impressive collection of art and design.

After lunch, explore the Science Museum, which offers interactive exhibits suitable for all ages. This area is rich in cultural offerings, so take your time wandering through the museum quarter. In the evening, consider dining in one of the nearby fine-dining restaurants or grabbing a casual meal at a local pub.

Day 5: A Day in the East – Tower of London and Markets

On your fifth day, explore London’s historic east. Begin with a tour of the Tower of London, where you can learn about the city’s medieval history and view the Crown Jewels. Then, take a short walk to Tower Bridge, where you can visit the exhibition inside the bridge or take in the views from its walkways.

For lunch, visit Borough Market, one of London’s oldest and most famous food markets, offering a wide variety of gourmet foods. Spend the afternoon exploring the trendy Shoreditch area, known for its street art, quirky cafes, and vintage shops.

Day 6: Shopping and Oxford Street

Take a day to indulge in London’s world-class shopping. Start on Oxford Street, Europe’s busiest shopping street, home to major brands and department stores. For high-end luxury shopping, head to Bond Street and Regent Street. Carnaby Street offers a more alternative shopping experience with independent boutiques and retro stores.

In the afternoon, visit Harrods in Knightsbridge, one of the most famous department stores in the world. Finish the day with a luxurious afternoon tea at one of London’s traditional tea rooms.

Day 7: Day Trip to Windsor or Greenwich

For your final day, take a day trip outside of central London. Windsor, located just outside the city, is home to Windsor Castle, a favourite residence of the British royal family. You can tour the castle and enjoy the charming town of Windsor.

Alternatively, head to Greenwich, which is easily accessible by boat or train. Visit the Royal Observatory, stand on the Prime Meridian Line, and explore the National Maritime Museum.