Why Choose This 7-Day London Itinerary?
London, a sprawling metropolis where millennia of history collide with cutting-edge culture, can't be rushed. This London 7-day itinerary is designed for a comprehensive yet relaxed exploration, giving you time to truly experience the city's diverse character.
From the regal pageantry of Westminster to the bohemian buzz of Camden, and including a classic day trip, our AI planner has structured a logical and exciting route. This is more than a checklist; it's your blueprint for an unforgettable week in one of the world's greatest cities.
Your Complete London 7-Day Itinerary
This travel guide provides a perfectly balanced plan for your 7 days in London, ensuring you see the best of the city.
Day 1: Royal London & Westminster Wonders
Begin your London 7-day itinerary by diving into the heart of British royalty and politics. Today is about immersing yourself in the grandeur of iconic landmarks, a perfect introduction to London's epic history.
Buckingham Palace
The Epicenter of British Monarchy
Witness the iconic home of the King and the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Why You Should Visit:
A must-see display of British pageantry that sets the tone for your royal exploration.
Ceremony 11:00 AM (check days)
Tube to Green Park
2 hours
How to Reach:
Take the Jubilee, Piccadilly, or Victoria line to Green Park station and enjoy a short walk through the park.
Insider Tip:
For the best view, stand by the Victoria Memorial. Arrive by 10:15 AM to secure a good spot.
Westminster Abbey
A Royal Church of Coronations & History
This breathtaking Gothic abbey has hosted every coronation since 1066 and is the final resting place of 17 monarchs.
Why You Should Visit:
Walk in the footsteps of kings, queens, poets, and scientists. The sheer scale of history within its walls is awe-inspiring.
9:30 AM - 3:30 PM
Tube to Westminster
2 hours
How to Reach:
A short, scenic walk from Buckingham Palace through St. James's Park leads you directly to Westminster.
Insider Tip:
Book tickets online to bypass the long entry queue, which can easily save you over an hour of waiting.
Day 1 Dining: A Classic British Pub Lunch
After soaking in royal history, experience another British institution. The area around Westminster is filled with historic pubs.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
A traditional pub frequented by politicians, serving classic pies and real ales.
St. Stephen's Tavern
Offers great views of Big Ben and a menu of British comfort food.
Day 2: The Tower, Bridges & South Bank Culture
Delve into a darker side of London's history at its formidable fortress before enjoying a scenic walk along the vibrant South Bank of the River Thames. A key part of any good London 7-day itinerary.
Tower of London
Fortress, Prison, and Crown Jewels
Explore nearly a thousand years of history at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, from royal palace to infamous prison.
Why You Should Visit:
The dazzling Crown Jewels are breathtaking, and the guided tours by the Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters) are both hilarious and informative.
9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Tube to Tower Hill
3-4 hours
How to Reach:
Take the District or Circle line to Tower Hill station. The Tower is visible directly from the station exit.
Insider Tip:
Head directly to the Crown Jewels exhibit upon arrival. The queue becomes significantly longer as the day goes on.
Shakespeare's Globe
A Reconstruction of the Original Playhouse
A faithful reconstruction of the open-air playhouse designed in 1599 where Shakespeare's greatest plays were first performed.
Why You Should Visit:
Take a guided tour to learn about theatre in Shakespeare's time or, even better, see a play for an authentic experience.
Tours 10 AM - 5 PM
Walk along South Bank
1 hour
How to Reach:
A pleasant 15-minute walk west along the South Bank from Tower Bridge.
Insider Tip:
For just £5, you can get a 'groundling' ticket to stand and watch a play, just as audiences did in Shakespeare's day.
Day 2 Dining: A Feast at Borough Market
Cross the river to the South Bank and indulge your senses at London's most famous food market.
Borough Market
A food lover's paradise. Grab lunch from dozens of street food stalls - from gourmet cheese toasties to fresh oysters.
The George Inn
A historic pub once frequented by Charles Dickens, offering a traditional atmosphere.
Day 3: World-Class Museums & Knightsbridge Luxury
Dedicate a day to culture in South Kensington's museum district, home to some of the world's best (and free!) museums. Then, experience the luxury of Knightsbridge.
British Museum
A World of Human History
Home to a vast collection of world art and artifacts, including the Rosetta Stone, Parthenon sculptures, and Egyptian mummies.
Why You Should Visit:
It’s an unparalleled journey through human history. The sheer scale and importance of the collection are staggering.
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tube to Holborn
3 hours
How to Reach:
Take the Piccadilly or Central line to Holborn. The museum is a 5-minute walk from there.
Insider Tip:
The museum is huge. Pick 3-4 key exhibits (e.g., Egypt, Rome, Assyria) to focus on to avoid museum fatigue.
Harrods
The World's Most Famous Department Store
An icon of London luxury, Harrods is a spectacular destination for shopping, dining, and simply marveling at its opulent halls.
Why You Should Visit:
The Food Halls are an absolute must-see, a feast for the eyes and the palate. The Egyptian Escalator is also a famous feature.
11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Tube to Knightsbridge
1-2 hours
How to Reach:
Take the Piccadilly line directly to Knightsbridge station, which has a dedicated exit into the store.
Insider Tip:
Visit the Ladurée counter in the Food Halls for some of the best macarons outside of Paris.
Day 3 Dining: Elegant Afternoon Tea
After a day of culture, indulge in the quintessential British tradition of afternoon tea.
The Ampersand Hotel
Offers a themed science afternoon tea, perfectly complementing a visit to the nearby museums.
The Kensington Hotel
Provides a classic, elegant afternoon tea experience in a beautiful setting.
Day 4: Art, Markets & Theatrical Heart
Experience the creative pulse of London, from modern art in a former power station to the vibrant energy of its most famous market and theatre district.
Tate Modern & Millennium Bridge
Modern Art on the South Bank
Britain's national museum of modern and contemporary art is housed in the former Bankside Power Station.
Why You Should Visit:
See works by Picasso, Rothko, and Dalí for free. The viewing platform offers one of London's best panoramic views.
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Tube to Southwark
2-3 hours
How to Reach:
Walk across the Millennium Bridge from St. Paul's Cathedral for the most dramatic and scenic approach.
Insider Tip:
Don't miss the 'Tanks' on the ground floor, huge circular spaces used for performance art and large-scale installations.
Covent Garden
Shopping, Street Performers & Culture
A lively district filled with street performers, high-end boutiques, the Royal Opera House, and a historic market.
Why You Should Visit:
Soak up the energetic atmosphere, enjoy world-class street performances, and explore the unique craft stalls in the Apple Market.
Shops 10 AM - 8 PM
Tube to Covent Garden
2-3 hours
How to Reach:
A short walk from Leicester Square or take the Piccadilly Line directly to Covent Garden station.
Insider Tip:
Explore the hidden alleys around the main piazza, like Neal's Yard, for colorful photos and independent shops.
Day 4 Dining: Pre-Theatre Dinner in the West End
Experience the buzz of London's 'Theatreland' with an early dinner before catching a world-famous show.
Dishoom Covent Garden
Incredibly popular Bombay-inspired cuisine in a vibrant setting.
The Ivy Market Grill
Sophisticated all-day dining with a classic British menu.
Day 5: Notting Hill Charm & Royal Parks
Discover one of London's most picturesque neighborhoods before enjoying the tranquility of its vast royal parks. A relaxing day in your London 7-day itinerary.
Notting Hill & Portobello Road Market
Colorful Houses and a World-Famous Market
Famous for its pastel-colored houses and the sprawling Portobello Road Market, a haven for antiques, fashion, and food.
Why You Should Visit:
It's one of London's most photogenic areas. The market offers a vibrant slice of London life and unique souvenirs.
Market main day is Saturday
Tube to Notting Hill Gate
3 hours
How to Reach:
Take the Central, Circle, or District line to Notting Hill Gate station.
Insider Tip:
Visit on a Saturday for the full antique market, but go early (around 9 AM) to beat the crowds.
Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens
London's Green Lung
A huge royal park that offers a peaceful escape from the city bustle, home to Kensington Palace and the Serpentine Lake.
Why You Should Visit:
Rent a paddleboat on the Serpentine, visit the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain, or simply enjoy a long walk in nature.
5:00 AM - Midnight
Walk from Notting Hill
2 hours
How to Reach:
The park is adjacent to Notting Hill and Knightsbridge.
Insider Tip:
Look for the Peter Pan statue in Kensington Gardens for a charming photo spot.
Day 5 Dining: A Picnic in the Park
After exploring the market, grab some delicious food to go and enjoy a classic London picnic.
Portobello Road Stalls
Pick up artisanal cheeses, fresh bread, and pastries from the market stalls for an authentic picnic.
Whole Foods Market
Located near Kensington High Street, this is a great place to assemble a gourmet picnic basket.
Day 6: Day Trip to Windsor Castle
Take a short train journey out of the city to explore the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, a residence of the British monarch.
Windsor Castle
A Royal Residence for Over 900 Years
A magnificent royal palace that has been home to 40 monarchs. It is still a working palace today.
Why You Should Visit:
Explore the stunning State Apartments, see Queen Mary's Dolls' House, and visit St. George's Chapel, the site of many royal weddings and the final resting place of Queen Elizabeth II.
10:00 AM - 5:15 PM
Train from Paddington
Full Day
How to Reach:
Take a direct train from London Paddington to Windsor & Eton Central (approx. 1 hour).
Insider Tip:
After your castle visit, take a stroll across the bridge to Eton to see the famous Eton College and its beautiful chapel.
Day 6 Dining: A Traditional Pub in Windsor
Enjoy a meal in one of the historic pubs in the charming town of Windsor.
The Duchess of Cambridge Pub
Offers a great selection of traditional British food and local ales right opposite the castle.
The Two Brewers
A classic, flower-adorned pub on a cobbled street near the Long Walk.
Day 7: Camden's Eclectic Vibe & A Farewell View
End your London 7-day itinerary by exploring the alternative culture of Camden before a relaxing walk and a stunning farewell view of the city.
Camden Market
A Hub of Alternative Culture
A sprawling collection of markets known for alternative fashion, unique crafts, and a huge variety of international street food.
Why You Should Visit:
It's a vibrant, buzzing area with a unique character. A great place to find unusual gifts and enjoy delicious, affordable food.
10:00 AM - Late
Tube to Camden Town
3-4 hours
How to Reach:
Take the Northern line to Camden Town station. The markets are just outside.
Insider Tip:
Explore the food stalls in Camden Lock Market by the canal for the best and most varied options.
Primrose Hill
Panoramic City Views
Located on the northern side of Regent's Park, this hill offers one of the best protected viewpoints of London's skyline.
Why You Should Visit:
It's the perfect spot to relax and reflect on your trip. The panoramic view of the entire city is the perfect farewell.
Open 24/7
Walk from Camden Town
1 hour
How to Reach:
A pleasant 15-minute walk from Camden Market, heading towards Regent's Park.
Insider Tip:
Go just before sunset on a clear day for the most magical view as the city lights begin to twinkle.
Day 7 Dining: Global Street Food in Camden
Camden Market is one of the world's great street food destinations. It's the perfect place for a casual and delicious final meal.
Camden Market Stalls
From halloumi fries to Yorkshire pudding burritos, you can eat your way around the world.
Shaka Zulu
For something more unique, try this spectacular South African restaurant with amazing decor.