6 Day London Itinerary

6 days is the perfect amount of time to explore London, giving you the flexibility to create an itinerary that will make your trip truly special. I’m originally from England (now living in Oklahoma) and spent three years living in London before moving to the U.S., so I understand exactly what stands out to international visitors. This 6-day itinerary is designed to make sure you experience all the iconic sights your friends will ask about—and a few hidden gems on top of that!

That’s where Let’s Plan a Trip to London comes in. Our 54-card deck showcases the city’s top attractions, complete with key details like cost, popularity, and visit times—making it easy to craft the perfect itinerary. I used the deck to build this (and all the other itineraries-which you should totally check out) on this site. Let me show you what it can do.

With 6 days to play with we’re going to be spending time sightseeing, but also shopping, hanging out in cool neighborhoods, seeing some of the more unusual London highlights, and getting out of central London all together. It’s almost a whole week. Let’s try to cram a full 7 days worth of fun into the 6. What do you say!

Day 1: Views, History & a Taste of London’s Nightlife

Start your morning with a ride on The London Eye. This iconic observation wheel offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city, helping you get your bearings. Spot landmarks like Big Ben, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Tower Bridge as you rise above the Thames.
From there, board a Thames Cruise, allowing you to hop on and off at various stops along the river. It’s a relaxing way to see the city’s landmarks from a new perspective, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way.
Hop off at St. Paul’s Cathedral and explore this architectural masterpiece. Climb to the Whispering Gallery for unique acoustics, then continue up to the Golden Gallery for panoramic city views. Inside, admire the mosaics and the final resting place of key historical figures in the crypt.
For some culture, choose between Shakespeare’s Globe, a recreation of the legendary playwright’s theatre, or The Tate Modern, housed in a former power station. The Globe offers open-air performances and tours, while the Tate features world-class modern art and industrial architecture.
Next, visit HMS Belfast, a WWII warship permanently moored on the Thames. Walk through the nine decks, including the Operations Room and gun turrets, for a fascinating look at life aboard a naval vessel.
Stop for lunch or an afternoon snack at Borough Market, a vibrant foodie paradise filled with international street food, artisanal products, and local specialties. Don’t leave without sampling something delicious!
Head to The Shard for stunning sunset views from one of London’s tallest buildings. You can relax with a drink at a mid-level bar or visit the View from The Shard for an unparalleled cityscape.
If you have energy for the evening, consider taking a Jack the Ripper Tour through Whitechapel, exploring the eerie streets tied to one of history’s most infamous mysteries. Afterward, head to Shoreditch, London’s trendy East End, for a lively night out. Whether you choose cocktails, street food, or clubbing, the area is buzzing with activity. Alternatively, grab a classic curry on Brick Lane, a street famous for its Indian restaurants and vibrant atmosphere.

Day 2: Royalty, Politics & Theater

Start your day early with a visit outside the city. Choose between the Harry Potter Studio Tour in Leavesden or Hampton Court Palace, the former royal residence of Henry VIII.
At Harry Potter Studios, immerse yourself in the world of Hogwarts with sets, costumes, and props from the films.
If you prefer history, Hampton Court Palace offers Tudor-era grandeur, a famous hedge maze, and beautiful riverside gardens.
Return to central London and visit Westminster Abbey. This iconic site has hosted royal coronations, weddings, and funerals for centuries. Don’t miss Poets’ Corner, where literary greats like Shakespeare and Charles Dickens are memorialized.
Walk over to Parliament and Big Ben to admire the Gothic architecture and snap some photos. While you won’t need to tour inside, standing in front of Elizabeth Tower (which houses Big Ben) is a must for first-time visitors.
Next, head to the Churchill War Rooms, where Winston Churchill and his government operated during World War II. Explore the preserved underground bunkers and gain insight into one of the most critical periods in modern history.
Continue your royal journey at Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the King. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Stroll to Trafalgar Square to admire Nelson’s Column and the iconic lion statues. The square is perfect for a short break to people-watch and soak in the city’s atmosphere.
Make your way to Covent Garden Market for a lively afternoon of shopping and street performances. Browse boutique stores, grab a snack from a local vendor, and enjoy the vibrant energy of the covered piazza.
End your day with a West End theater experience. London’s West End boasts world-class productions, offering everything from hit musicals to thought-provoking plays. Keep in mind that this will be a full day with plenty of walking, so if you want to tour inside some locations, you may need to adjust your pace and remove a few stops.

Day 3: Icons, Animals & Camden Vibes

Start your morning with breakfast on Carnaby Street. This pedestrian-friendly area is full of cool cafes, bakeries, and boutique shops. It’s a great place to soak in a bit of London’s creative fashion scene before heading off to your next adventure.
From there, head north to Baker Street and visit the Sherlock Holmes Museum. This charming spot recreates the fictional detective’s famous apartment at 221B Baker Street, filled with Victorian artifacts and case notes.
- Alternatively, take a short detour to Abbey Road and recreate the famous Beatles album cover by crossing the iconic zebra crossing.
Next, visit Madame Tussauds, where you can snap selfies with incredibly lifelike wax figures of celebrities, historical figures, and fictional characters. The interactive zones—like the Marvel and Star Wars exhibits—make it especially fun for families and pop culture fans.
Continue on to London Zoo, located in Regent’s Park. Spend a few hours exploring its expansive grounds, home to over 750 species. Don’t miss the Land of the Lions or the playful penguin pool. Afterward, take a peaceful stroll or have a picnic in Regent’s Park, one of London’s most beautiful green spaces.
End your day at Camden Market, a hub of alternative culture and creativity. Explore its maze of stalls selling vintage clothing, handmade crafts, and international street food. Stick around into the evening for a live gig, comedy show, or drinks at one of Camden’s iconic music venues or pubs.

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Day 4: Royal Residences, Museums & Evening Entertainment

Start your morning at Kensington Palace, where you can immerse yourself in centuries of royal history. Visit the King’s Gallery, which features breathtaking works of art and artifacts from the palace’s past, and learn about Queen Victoria’s early life through personal letters and diaries on display.
Head to the Natural History Museum, where beyond the famous dinosaur exhibits, you can explore the Minerals Gallery, home to some of the largest natural crystals in the world. Another highlight is the Earthquake Simulator, which re-creates the sensation of standing in a store during the 1995 Kobe earthquake—a powerful, immersive experience.
Afterward, take a peaceful walk in Hyde Park. While the Serpentine Lake is a well-known feature, don’t miss The Rose Garden, an elegant spot where seasonal flowers bloom in carefully designed patterns. It’s perfect for unwinding before heading into the city’s bustling shopping areas.
Continue to Harrods, where the Food Halls offer a feast for the senses. Try a sample from the cheese room or admire the luxury chocolates, but also take a moment to browse the perfume gallery, known for its rare and high-end fragrances.
For dinner, head to Chinatown. You’ll find restaurants, but also bakeries with egg tarts, bubble tea shops, and smaller eateries serving traditional dishes like hot pot and bao buns. The atmosphere, with red lanterns overhead, is electric in the evening.
Wrap up your day in Leicester Square. Check out the statue garden, which honors characters from British and global cinema, before settling in for a movie. The Vue and Odeon Luxe cinemas offer a variety of films and boast top-tier technology for a premium experience. If you’re not up for a film, the square itself buzzes with street performers and tourists, making it a lively place to soak up the energy of London at night.

Day 5: Towering History & Greenwich Exploration

Begin your day at the Tower of London, where you can explore its medieval dungeons and walk the ancient Water Gate, also known as Traitors’ Gate, which once served as the entry point for prisoners brought by boat. Keep an eye out for the legendary Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters) who are full of fascinating stories about the Tower’s dark and storied past.
Walk to Tower Bridge, an iconic feat of Victorian engineering. Did you know the bridge’s bascules (the movable parts) were powered by massive steam engines when it was first built? Visit the engine rooms to learn more about how they operated. Don’t forget to check out the glass-floor walkway, offering a thrilling view of traffic and boats far below.
After your morning of history, travel to Greenwich, a charming riverside town. Start with the Cutty Sark, the world’s last surviving tea clipper, built for speed during the competitive tea trade of the 19th century. Marvel at its towering masts and learn about the perilous voyages it made across the world’s oceans.
Next, visit the National Maritime Museum, home to one of the world’s largest collections of maritime artifacts. Highlights include Admiral Nelson’s uniform, complete with the bullet hole from the Battle of Trafalgar. The interactive exhibits, like ship simulators, provide hands-on experiences perfect for all ages.
End your Greenwich visit at the Royal Observatory, where Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and the Prime Meridian are established. Stand with one foot in each hemisphere and take in stunning views of London from the hilltop. Explore the Great Equatorial Telescope, one of the largest of its kind, and learn about the observatory’s vital role in navigation and timekeeping throughout history.

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Day 6: Treasures, Shopping & Royal Farewell

Begin your day at The British Museum, home to a vast collection spanning over two million years of history. While famous artifacts like the Rosetta Stone and Parthenon Marbles are must-sees, don’t overlook the Assyrian Lion Hunt Reliefs, which offer a detailed glimpse into the ceremonial traditions of ancient Mesopotamia. The Reading Room, a favorite of Karl Marx, provides a quieter corner for reflection.
Next, head to Oxford Street, Europe’s busiest shopping destination. While Selfridges is a standout, offering luxury goods and cutting-edge displays, there are also affordable high-street favorites like Primark and Zara. For a quick escape from the hustle, seek out St. Christopher’s Place, a nearby hidden gem filled with peaceful cafes and boutique shops.
In the afternoon, take a short train ride to Windsor for a visit to Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. Wander through the State Apartments, adorned with works by Rembrandt and Van Dyck, and visit St. George’s Chapel, the burial site of Queen Elizabeth II and Henry VIII. Stroll along The Long Walk, a picturesque, tree-lined avenue leading to impressive views of the castle.

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