4 Day London Itinerary - For Families, First Timers, Tight Budgets & History Buffs

Planning a London itinerary for 4 days can feel overwhelming, but we’re here to make it easy. With so many iconic landmarks and activities, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

That’s where Let’s Plan a Trip to London comes in. This deck of 54 cards highlights top attractions with key details like cost and visit times, making it simple to build a customized itinerary.

Using this system, we’ve created six 4-day itineraries for you. We have a four day London itinerary for families, one for first-timers, history buffs, budget travelers, sports fans, and culture-lovers, so let’s get stuck in!

FAMILIES – 4 Day London Itinerary

A family vacation London can be a lot of fun if you cater to everyone. There’s a lot more to do for children, and it’s a lot more family-friendly, than any other big city in Europe, for my money.

Day 1: Iconic Sights and Evening Entertainment

Start at The London Eye for stunning city views and to get your bearings together as a family for everything you’re going to experience over the next exciting four days!
Explore The London Dungeon, bringing the city’s dark history to life with thrilling experiences to get your blood racing.
Walk to Big Ben and admire the Gothic beauty of the Houses of Parliament. Don’t forget to take a photo in a red London telephone box.
Stroll through Trafalgar Square and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Feed the pigeons, take in some street art or theater, and take a picture with the massive lion statues.
Dine in Chinatown, savoring authentic Asian cuisine and shopping in markets, candy stores and Asian bakeries.
End the day with a show at a West End Theater, enjoying world-class theater with plenty of family-friendly options available.

Day 2: Family Fun and Iconic Experiences

Start your morning at London Zoo, home to over 750 species, including the Komodo dragon and the immersive Land of the Lions exhibit. Afterward, enjoy a peaceful stroll through Regent’s Park and its beautiful Rose Garden (in spring), or grab a row boat in summer!
Visit Madame Tussauds for photos with lifelike wax figures (though you might not recognize all the British celebrities), and don’t miss the temporary exhibits for something extra fun (like Starwars or Marvel).
Walk along Oxford Street, where you’ll find flagship stores on Europe’s busiest shopping street, and the hidden rooftop garden at John Lewis for a quiet escape and city views.
End your day at The British Museum, marveling at the Rosetta Stone and Parthenon sculptures. Explore the Enlightenment Gallery for lesser-known but fascinating artifacts.

Day 3: Adventure and Royalty

Start your morning at Go Ape Battersea Park, where kids and adults can enjoy treetop adventures, zip lines, and rope courses. While you’re there, don’t miss the impressive Peace Pagoda, a striking Buddhist monument, or the views of the iconic Battersea Power Station, now transformed into a modern shopping and dining hub.
Escape London and head to Windsor Castle on the train, the world’s oldest and largest inhabited castle. Explore its opulent State Apartments, St. George’s Chapel, and the remarkable Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House.
Spend the afternoon in Windsor, a charming town with quaint shops and riverside walks along the Thames. Don’t forget to admire Eton College, the prestigious school with ties to royalty and British Prime Ministers, before relaxing with afternoon tea at a cozy cafe.

Day 4: History and Mystery

Start your morning at HMS Belfast, a historic warship on the Thames. Explore nine decks, including the Operations Room used during D-Day and the galley where meals for hundreds were prepared daily. Climb into the gun turrets for a hands-on look at its defensive firepower.
Head to Borough Market for lunch, where you’ll find everything from gourmet Scotch eggs to sizzling street food. This iconic market has been feeding Londoners since the 12th century.
Spend your afternoon at the Tower of London, viewing the dazzling Crown Jewels and exploring its storied past as a royal palace and prison. Visit the Chapel of St. Peter ad Vincula, where Anne Boleyn is buried, and meet the legendary ravens said to protect the monarchy.
End your day with a Jack the Ripper Walking Tour, perfect for older family members with a taste for history and mystery. Explore Whitechapel’s eerie streets, learn about the infamous killer, and visit landmarks like the Ten Bells Pub tied to the chilling events.

Plan Your Trip with Real Cards

The best itinerary is a custom one

Shop – Let’s Plan a Trip to London

FIRST-TIMERS – 4 Day London Itinerary

There are sights in London that you just can’t afford to miss when you’re traveling there for the first time. This is the itinerary for you if you want to make sure you hit all the iconic high-points.

Day 1: Iconic London for First-Timers

Begin your day at Buckingham Palace, where the Changing of the Guard ceremony showcases the precision of the British Army. Fun fact: the palace has 775 rooms, including a post office and a swimming pool.
Walk to Trafalgar Square, originally built to commemorate Britain’s naval victories. Don’t miss the hidden drinking fountain for horses on the square’s northeast side—a quirky relic of Victorian London.
Visit The National Gallery, home to over 2,300 works of art. Look out for Van Gogh’s “Sunflowers” and Turner’s “The Fighting Temeraire,” voted Britain’s favorite painting.In the afternoon, explore Westminster Abbey, where every coronation since 1066 has taken place. Poet’s Corner is a particular highlight, with tributes to literary legends like Shakespeare and Jane Austen.
End your day at Parliament and Big Ben, with its clock mechanism so precise it’s adjusted using old coins. The tower was renamed Elizabeth Tower in 2012 to honor Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee.

Day 2: London Landmarks and Hidden Gems for First-Timers

Start your day at Covent Garden Market, once a fruit and vegetable market in the 17th century. Today, it’s a lively spot filled with boutique shops, street performers, and historic architecture. Look for the hidden passageways nearby, like Neal’s Yard, bursting with vibrant colors and quirky cafes.
Visit St. Paul’s Cathedral, where you can climb the 528 steps to the Golden Gallery for panoramic views of London. Fun fact: the dome is one of the largest in the world, and the Whispering Gallery lives up to its name—whispers travel clearly around its curved walls.
Spend your afternoon at the Tower of London, a fortress with nearly 1,000 years of history. Discover the dazzling Crown Jewels and the famous ravens, said to protect the Tower and the monarchy. For dinner, head to St. Katharine Docks, a serene marina filled with waterfront restaurants and a stark contrast to the bustling city just steps away.

Day 3: Art, Views, and Evening Excitement for First-Timers

Start at The Tate Modern, housed in a former power station. Don’t miss the vast Turbine Hall, often featuring impressive installations.
Take a Thames Cruise, enjoying views of Tower Bridge and St. Paul’s Cathedral as you head to The London Eye.
Ride The London Eye for 360-degree city views, with landmarks like Big Ben and Buckingham Palace in sight.
Stop at Piccadilly Circus, a lively hub of neon signs, theaters, and shops. Grab dinner in nearby Soho, a foodie hotspot offering everything from casual eats to Michelin-starred dining.
Catch a show at West End Theaters, one of London’s cultural highlights.

Day 4: Markets, Views, and History for First-Timers

Start your day at Borough Market, where traders have sold goods for centuries. Try an artisanal pastry or visit the nearby Golden Hinde, a full-scale replica of Sir Francis Drake’s famous ship, hidden just a short walk away.
Head to The Shard, where the observation deck offers stunning views of London. On a clear day, you can see up to 40 miles, including landmarks like Windsor Castle. For a fun touch, enjoy a coffee or cocktail at one of the mid-level bars for skyline views without the full climb.
Walk to Tower Bridge, London’s most iconic bridge. Check out the engine rooms that once powered its famous bascules, and dare to cross the glass-floored walkway for a bird’s-eye view of the river traffic below.
End your day at The British Museum, exploring treasures like the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles. Don’t skip the less crowded Enlightenment Gallery, a fascinating time capsule of 18th-century exploration and learning.

HISTORY BUFFS – 4 Day London Itinerary

There’s so much history in London – literally millennia of it, we’re talking all the way back to the Romans. These are the old-time highlights.

Day 1: Weapons of War, The Bard, and a Historic Tower

Start your morning at the Imperial War Museum, where you’ll find tanks, Spitfires, and moving exhibits like the Holocaust Exhibition. Arrive early for a quieter experience.
Visit Shakespeare’s Globe, a faithful reconstruction of the original theater. Take a tour to learn about Elizabethan stagecraft or simply enjoy its riverside charm.
Head to HMS Belfast, a WWII warship with nine decks to explore. Highlights include the Operations Room, mess deck, and gun turrets. Fun fact: it fired during the D-Day landings.
Cross Tower Bridge, a Victorian masterpiece with its iconic bascules. Walk the glass-floored walkway for unique Thames views.
End your day at the Tower of London, home to the Crown Jewels and centuries of royal intrigue. Visit the White Tower and learn about its grim history as a prison and execution site.

Day 1: A Royal Castle, Burial Place, and a Museum of Treasures

Begin your day at Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. Explore the opulent State Apartments, adorned with works by Rembrandt and Rubens, and visit St. George’s Chapel, the burial site of Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth II. Fun tip: Arrive early to catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony and take a leisurely stroll along the Long Walk, a stunning tree-lined avenue with breathtaking views of the castle.
Head back to central London to visit Westminster Abbey, a site of coronations, royal weddings, and funerals for nearly a millennium. Highlights include the Coronation Chair, used since 1308, and Poet’s Corner, where literary legends like Chaucer and Shakespeare are honored.
Stop by Trafalgar Square, a historic gathering place that commemorates Britain’s naval triumph at the Battle of Trafalgar. Admire Nelson’s Column, the iconic lions, and the fountains, then take a moment to people-watch from the steps. Interesting fact: the square’s Fourth Plinth showcases rotating modern art installations, providing a fascinating contrast to its historic backdrop.
End your day at The British Museum, a treasure trove of human history. Beeline to the Rosetta Stone and the Parthenon sculptures, and don’t miss the Assyrian lion hunt reliefs. For a quieter experience, visit the Reading Room, once frequented by Karl Marx, or the Enlightenment Gallery to see how 18th-century scholars interpreted the world.

Day 3: Sports Birthplaces and Tudor Splendor

Start your morning at Wimbledon or Lord’s Cricket Ground, both steeped in sporting history. At Wimbledon, the museum showcases tennis’s evolution from a lawn pastime to a global sport. See memorabilia like outfits worn by tennis legends and learn about the technology behind modern rackets. Fun fact: the original All England Club had croquet in its name before tennis took over. At Lord’s, known as the “Home of Cricket,” you can tour the Pavilion and the Long Room, where players walk out to bat. Don’t miss the Ashes Urn, symbolizing the fiercest rivalry in cricket, and the art collection celebrating the sport’s heritage.
Spend your afternoon at Hampton Court Palace, a magnificent royal residence built by Cardinal Wolsey and later seized by Henry VIII. Explore the vast Tudor kitchens, which once prepared feasts for hundreds of courtiers, and admire the spectacular ceiling in the Great Hall, complete with Tudor roses and royal beasts. The haunted Gallery is said to be visited by Catherine Howard, Henry’s ill-fated fifth wife. Outside, stroll through the exquisite gardens, including the world-famous hedge maze, and see the Great Vine, planted in 1768 and still producing grapes today.

Day 4: Exploring Historic Greenwich

Start your day at The Cutty Sark, the world’s last surviving tea clipper. Built in 1869, it was designed for speed, breaking records while transporting tea from China. Walk its decks and learn about its role in maritime trade.
Take a stroll through Greenwich Park, London’s oldest Royal Park. Once a Tudor hunting ground, it offers beautiful gardens and hilltop views of the Thames and city skyline.
Visit the National Maritime Museum, where you can see Admiral Nelson’s uniform from the Battle of Trafalgar and discover Britain’s naval history. Interactive displays, including ship simulators, make it a dynamic experience.
Stop at the Royal Observatory, home of the Prime Meridian. Stand on the line that divides the hemispheres and explore exhibits about the development of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). The Great Equatorial Telescope is another highlight.
Wander through Greenwich town, known for its maritime past. Explore the bustling Greenwich Market for crafts and food, and visit historic pubs once frequented by sailors. Its cobblestone streets and riverside location give it a unique character.

The game that started it all

WHERE TO NEXT?

Tired of the same trips? Let’s Pick Our Next Trip makes choosing your next adventure fun!

Pick between the top 54 global destinations for US travellers.
At-a-glance cost, popularity and best time of year to travel.
Decide as a group for better trips and happier travelers.

LEARN MORE

TIGHT-BUDGETS – 4 Day London Itinerary

Many of the finest galleries and museums in the world are in London, and most are free – subsidized by the British government. This, along with the many fine parks, iconic buildings, and fun neighborhoods, means you can enjoy much of the city on a budget – if you’re dilligent.

Day 1: London’s Iconic Landmarks on a Budget

Start at Trafalgar Square, a historic site home to Nelson’s Column and the lion statues. Don’t miss the Fourth Plinth, where rotating modern art installations offer a fascinating contrast to the square’s historic monuments.
Visit the National Gallery, free to enter and featuring masterpieces like Van Gogh’s Sunflowers and Monet’s Water-Lilies. Keep an eye out for the building’s beautiful domed ceilings and mosaic floors.
Walk to Buckingham Palace, the King’s residence. Watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony if you arrive early. Nearby, stroll through Green Park, a peaceful green space with no formal flowerbeds, originally a royal hunting ground.
Stop by Big Ben, where you can admire the intricate details of the Elizabeth Tower. Cross Westminster Bridge for a fantastic view of both Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.
End your day at Covent Garden Market, known for its vibrant atmosphere. Visit the Apple Market, where you’ll find affordable handmade crafts, or grab a budget-friendly bite from one of the surrounding street vendors.

Day 2: Art, History, and Culture on a Budget

Start your morning at the British Museum, free to enter and home to world-famous artifacts like the Rosetta Stone and the Parthenon sculptures. For a quieter experience, visit the Enlightenment Gallery, showcasing fascinating 18th-century collections.
Head to the Imperial War Museum (best buy a travel pass today as you’ll be pinging around!), where you can explore exhibits on both World Wars, including a Spitfire and a piece of the Berlin Wall. Admission is free, and it’s a great place to learn about modern history.
Spend your afternoon at Tate Britain, offering free entry to its impressive collection of British art. Don’t miss the Turner galleries, which feature stunning landscapes and seascapes. Check out the grand spiral staircase in the Millbank entrance for a perfect photo opportunity.
End your day at The National Theater, where if you’re willing to get in line early you can often find discounted or even free performances (check out their website for details). Even if you skip a show, explore the South Bank area for great riverside views and street performances.

Day 3: Science, Nature, and Art on a Budget

Start your morning at the Natural History Museum, free to enter and home to the iconic dinosaur skeletons, including the famous blue whale in Hintze Hall. Don’t miss the Earth Hall, where you can walk through a giant globe showcasing the planet’s geological wonders.
Visit the Science Museum, just next door, to explore interactive exhibits on space exploration, engineering, and technology. Check out the “Exploring Space” gallery, which features real rockets and satellites. Admission is free, with optional paid experiences.
Take a break at Hyde Park, one of London’s most famous green spaces. Enjoy a peaceful walk along the Serpentine or relax by the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain. Look for the park’s hidden gems, like the pet cemetery near Victoria Gate.
Spend your afternoon at the V&A, the world’s largest museum of decorative arts and design. Free to enter, it features everything from fashion to ancient sculptures. Don’t miss the Cast Courts, showcasing large-scale replicas of iconic architectural works like Michelangelo’s David.

Day 4: Neighborhood Charm and Iconic Sights on a Budget

Start your morning in Notting Hill, a colorful neighborhood known for its pastel houses and lively vibe. Stroll along Portobello Road Market, where you’ll find antiques, vintage clothing, and affordable street food on market days.
Head to Tower Bridge, one of London’s most iconic landmarks. Walk across the bridge for free and take in views of the Thames. For a small fee, visit the glass walkway and Victorian engine rooms to see how the bridge operates.
Stop at Borough Market for lunch, where you can sample international cuisine and fresh produce without breaking the bank. Keep an eye out for free samples from friendly vendors.
Spend your afternoon at Tate Modern, housed in a former power station and offering free entry to its impressive collection of contemporary art. Don’t miss the Turbine Hall, a vast space often featuring large-scale installations.

London’s Top Itinerary Destinations Mapped

HOW IT WORKS

TURN ITINERARY BUILDING INTO A GAME

There’s no funner way to plan a trip than with a deck of cards representing all the top destinations

Rank Destinations

Flip cards and vote on destinations with a 👍 or 👎

Build Your Dream Itinerary

Take turns to move highly ranked cards into your itinerary 🗓️

Optimize Travel

Minimize travel times by matching colors ✈️

Let’s Plan a Trip to London

$16.99

Let’s Plan a Trip to London is a collaborative game that helps families, friends, and travel groups create the ultimate itinerary based on their personal preferences—all while making planning fun and easy.

Out of stock

Category: Europe