Have you been feeling the workweek blues? Or perhaps need some retail therapy? Or yearning to explore a new destination? London offers the perfect antidote.
London, the vibrant capital of England, is a city that seamlessly blends its rich historical heritage with modern attractions. Whether you're captivated by iconic landmarks, world-class museums, or bustling markets, this comprehensive 7-day itinerary ensures that first-time visitors experience the best of what London has to offer. Let’s explore!
Day 1: Arrival and Introduction to London
Upon arriving in London, take a moment to get acclimated to the city. We recommend choosing centrally located accommodation in areas like Covent Garden, Marble Arch, or Mayfair for easier access to major attractions and hotspots in London. Depending on the time of your arrival, after checking in, it's always best to freshen up before you start your explorations. To avoid sightseeing fatigue, we suggest taking it slow and having a look around.
Begin your London adventure in the early afternoon with a stroll around Covent Garden. This bustling area is known for its lively atmosphere, street performers, and an eclectic mix of shops and restaurants. If you’re looking to find one-off antiques and collectables or handmade goods such as jewellery, unique soaps, and watercolours, visit The Apple Market, which is filled with stalls every Monday to Sunday.
After browsing for a few hours, right next door to Covent Garden is Leicester Square — the heart of London’s entertainment district. Not only will you see numerous theatres showcasing the latest blockbusters, premieres, and musicals, but also you’ll find a variety of entertainment options. These include M&M’s London, the world’s largest candy store, which boasts four floors of colourful, M&M’s chocolates and merchandise, and the LEGO store — a paradise for Lego enthusiasts. This vibrant location can get quite crowded during peak season so be prepared for crowds if you’re planning to visit in those times.
Leicester Square is just a short walk to Piccadilly Circus. Famous for its bright neon lights and ornate buildings, this easily recognisable location is perfect for those seeking to take pictures and immerse themselves in the London scenery.
End your day with dinner in Soho, which is a 6-minute walk from Piccadilly Circus. Whether you’re in the mood for international cuisine or would like a cosy bistro to chill in with your loved ones, Soho has something to suit every taste. Some of our personal favourites include Randall & Aubins, Ramo Ramen, and Blacklock.
Day 2: Iconic London Landmarks
Before we proceed with our splendid recommendations of the best London landmarks to visit, we would like to recommend The London Pass, which offers admission to over 90+ attractions at a single price. This is ideal if you plan on visiting multiple attractions such as The London Eye, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey. Or if you have a specific itinerary or limited amount of time, individual fast-track passes for top attractions might be your best bet as this can help you skip the queues.
Start your second day with a visit to Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch. Whether you’re seeking a guided tour of the King’s quarters or would like a stroll on royal grounds, if you arrive on time, you may be able to witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony — a quintessentially British spectacle.
After the ceremony, we recommend taking a leisurely stroll through St. James’s Park, one of London’s most picturesque royal parks. Enjoy the serene lake, the various wildlife, and the beautifully landscaped gardens.
In the afternoon, continue your exploration with a visit to the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. Standing proudly on the banks of the River Thames, the Palace of Westminster (also known as the Houses of Parliament) showcases London’s finest example of Gothic revival architecture with its soaring towers, intricate stonework, and stained glass windows. Having been at the centre of the British government since the mid-19th century, visitors can take guided tours to learn about the history and workings of Parliament as well as witness live debates on certain days. Within walking distance, you can then visit the iconic clock tower Big Ben and take in its architectural beauty and its famous chimes.
Just a short walk away is Westminster Abbey — one of London’s oldest religious buildings. This magnificent Gothic church has been the site of coronations, royal weddings, and burials since 1066. This is a popular architectural marvel that tourists enjoy visiting and can explore at their own pace (with an audio guide disclosing details about the abbey’s history).
Following your landmark exploration, you may begin to feel peckish. We recommend finishing your day with a trip to the South Bank of the Thames, home to a variety of restaurants, bars, and cultural venues. With a huge selection of street food and drinks, the Southbank Centre Food Market is a must-visit for first-time visitors.
Day 3: Exploring London's Museums and Galleries
It's day three and it’s time to embark on your journey through time. Start your cultural exploration with a visit to The British Museum, a treasure trove of human history nestled in the heart of Bloomsbury. As you step into the grand Great Court, the museum’s stunning central atrium, you will be greeted by the iconic glass and steel roof that floods the space with natural light. Make sure to take a visit to the museum’s most sought-after artefacts including The Rosetta Stone, the Parthenon sculptures, and the Egyptian mummies! The museum is free to enter, though some special exhibitions may have an admission fee.
Next, head to Trafalgar Square, where The National Gallery stands proudly. This art lover’s paradise houses over 2,300 paintings, spanning the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Lose yourself in the rich colours and intricate details of works by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael as you wander through the gallery’s opulent halls.
And on that note, if you are looking to see some of London’s finest art, we suggest making your way to the Tate Modern. Housed in the former Bankside Power station, this beacon of contemporary art offers an impressive collection of artists including the likes of Picasso, Yoko Ono, and William Blake, as well as many other modern and contemporary artists. Moreover, after engaging with the multimedia exhibits and interactive installations, you can ascend to the top of the building for a panoramic view of London’s skyline.
Round off your artistic day with a visit to a lesser-known gallery, such as the Wallace Collection, for a more intimate cultural experience. Located in the opulent Hertford House, this hidden gem boasts an impressive array of fine and decorative arts from the 15th to the 19th centuries with adorned masterpieces by Rembrandt and Titian.
Day 4: London's Historic Districts
As you reach the halfway point of your trip, it is time to delve into the rich history and enduring legacy of London. Your first stop is the iconic Tower of London, a fortress that has stood guard over the city for nearly a thousand years. Join a Beefeater-led tour to hear tales of intrigue, imprisonment, and torture. Don’t miss out on seeing the dazzling Crown Jewels — this is one of London's top attractions.
Next, stroll across the world-famous Tower Bridge. This combined bascule and suspension bridge is not only an engineering feat but also offers stunning views of the River Thames. Here you can visit their exhibition or for the brave-hearted, walk across the glass floors overseeing the river and traffic below.
After a morning of rich historical lessons, take time to uncover the hidden gems and architectural marvels scattered throughout the City of London in the afternoon. Head to St. Paul’s Cathedral to witness its majestic dome dominating the skyline. Inside, explore the awe-inspiring interior, intricate mosaics, and the impressive Whispering Gallery. Climb further to the Golden Gallery for breathtaking views over London.
Or if you're looking to take a break from iconic sites, how about wandering to Leadenhall Market, a beautifully preserved Victorian market? Once a hub for poultry and game traders, it’s now a vibrant space filled with boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Harry Potter fans will also recognise it as the filming location for Diagon Alley in the film series. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the charming eateries, and soak up the market's historic atmosphere.
We recommend finishing your day with a visit to one of London’s historic pubs. Seeped in history and offering a cosy environment, The Old Bell Tavern and Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese are perfect for those looking to end their night with a delicious pint of ale.
Day 5: Shopping and Entertainment
If you’re anything like us, you’ll want to devote some time to browsing through shops in some of the city’s most famous shopping districts. Kick off your fifth day in London by starting at Oxford Street, a bustling hub of high-street fashion. Offering 1.5 miles of unrivalled shopping and boasting over 300 stores, here is the perfect destination if you’re seeking major brands like HMV, Zara, and H&M. Step into Selfridges, a historic department store that offers numerous restaurants and bars, an ever-evolving roster of new brands and designers to even a skate bowl and an in-house cinema.
From Oxford Street, make your way to Regent Street. Here you can visit Hamleys, the world’s oldest and largest toy store, where the playful atmosphere and seven floors of toys will delight both young and old. Another must-visit is Liberty, an iconic department store housed in a striking Tudor-style building. Liberty is famed for its high-end fashion, eclectic homewares, and beautiful fabrics.
You may also want to take a trip to Carnaby Street. Found behind both Oxford Street and Regent Street, this famous, pedestrianised shopping and dining area, hosts over 150 brands, boutiques, concept stores, and flagships. You will also find Carnaby's iconic Kingly Court, a three-storey alfresco dining destination bustling with culinary delights and a lively courtyard.
As evening falls, immerse yourself in the magic of London’s West End. The theatre district is renowned for its world-class productions, ranging from long-running musicals to cutting-edge plays. Whether it’s the timeless charm of The Phantom of the Opera or the iconic production of The Lion King, there’s something for everyone. Ensure you book your tickets in advance, especially for popular shows!
Day 6: Day Trips from London
While there is plenty to do and see in the city of London for seven days, there are also numerous places surrounding it worth a visit. For that reason, you may want to embark on a day trip from London before your last day.
If you love being by the seaside, Brighton may be on the agenda for you. With a great beach, plenty of shops and restaurants to discover, and a 25-metre-long pier filled with fairground rides and attractions, Brighton is the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of London. On top of this, it is only an hour away from central London via train.
Alternatively, if you’re a history lover, why not embark on a day trip to Windsor Castle? Being only a short train ride away from London, Windsor is one of the oldest and largest inhabited castles in the world, offering a glimpse into past and present royal life. The castle is open to the public all year round and offers you the chance to see the State Apartments that are used today by the Royal Family, the historical rooms that were built for Charles II as well as the world’s greatest collection of paintings including artists such as Hans Holbein, Van Dyck and Rubens.
Or if you’re looking to go further out, perhaps take a trip to the historic city of Bath. Known for its Roman baths and Georgian architecture, Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll through the beautiful streets, taking in sights like the Royal Crescent, the Circus, and Bath Abbey. You can finalise your day trip by enjoying a traditional afternoon tea at the elegant Pump Room, overlooking the iconic Roman Baths.
Day 7: Hidden Gems and Local Experiences
Devote your final day to exploring the city one last time. Enjoy the morning by taking a boat tour on the Thames or even an Uber Boat, where you can travel to 20 different piers and enjoy a scenic route of London.
After a couple of hours of boat riding, why not head to Camden Market to enjoy a quick bite to eat? Indulge in delicious and affordable street food like Venezuelan arepas, Korean BBQ on a stick, or juicy Argentinian steak strips. Once you have satisfied your hunger, you can browse the 1000s of stalls that are overflowing with vintage clothing, quirky gifts and handmade crafts — it’s the perfect place to pick up a unique souvenir for friends and family!
For a more tranquil experience, visit Little Venice, a picturesque canal area with charming waterways, narrow boats, and waterside cafes. Take a walk along the canals, or enjoy a boat trip to nearby Regent’s Park. The serene environment provides a perfect contrast to the bustling streets of Camden.
Staying in London
Here at Luxury London Listings, we offer modern luxury apartments in numerous locations that are all minutes away from London’s vibrant city life, including Mayfair, Green Park, Covent Garden, St James’, and Marble Arch.
If you would like to find out more information about our properties don’t hesitate to contact us at info@luxurylondonlistings.com.
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