London is steeped in history and tradition, home to royals and celebrities, and absolutely jam-packed with sights!
The city dazzles guests from around the globe with its luxurious style, classic charm and hidden gems. As one of our favorite destinations, it’s a place we have returned to time and time again.
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Having spent months navigating the sprawling metropolis, we have devised a sensational One Week in London Itinerary.
Providing a sweeping overview of the best of London, our 7-day vacation features must-see attractions and iconic experiences in an easy-to-follow format.
Planning a 1 Week in London Itinerary
Our outlined 7 Day London Travel Itinerary is the ideal place to start planning your perfect trip.
That said, there is a lot more to consider besides figuring out what to see and do. In the Travel Tips section later in the article, we provide advice on where to stay and what to pack.
Helpful Info for 7 Days in London
Before we dive into the specifics of our day-by-day 1 Week London Itinerary, we want to share some information regarding European Trip Planning.
London is a really, really big city. It is best to organize your sightseeing by areas. To get a better understanding of the different districts, use our guide to the Top London Neighborhoods.
When planning a 1 week stay in London, deciding what to eat is equally important! We share our personal favorites in our complete guide to Famous London Food.
There is also no doubt that London is a spendy city. You will likely want to set a budget for your week in London. Get started with our Free Vacation Budget Planner and Money-Saving London Hacks.
Finally, those with less time might find our other itineraries useful: How To Spend 1 Day in London and London in 3 Days.
Organize Your Trip to London for a Week
As you begin making reservations, staying organized is key. Use our Printable Travel Planner to sort all the details!
One Week in London Itinerary
This 7-Day Itinerary for London offers a grand introduction to the ‘Big Smoke’, featuring must-see sights and quintessential experiences.
We are going to cover quite a bit of ground – so go ahead and lace up your Best Travel Shoes and let’s get to it!
DAY 1: Must-See London
Begin your London 7 Days Itinerary winding your way through the most recognizable districts: Westminster, City of London and the West End.
Morning: Explore Westminster on Foot
Start the day properly with a Full English Breakfast at Regency Cafe, then set off to discover Westminster.
From Buckingham Palace to Westminster Abbey and Big Ben to Trafalgar Square, complete our Self-Guided Walking Tour through the dazzling district.
If time allows, step inside some of the prime Westminster attractions. The Tate Britain Museum and National Gallery are two of our favorites (and are free) – or tour the Abbey (ticket required).
Afternoon: Delve into History in the City of London
From Westminster, walk east along the River Thames and ease into the historic City of London.
Marking the ancient origins of the municipality, ‘the Square Mile’ enthralls visitors with its 2000-year-old Roman remains alongside soaring skyscrapers.
Grab falafel from Pilpel for take away and have a picnic at St. Paul’s Churchyard (ticket required to enter the church itself). Then, set off to see the top City of London Sights, along with a few hidden gems!
Stroll through Postman’s Park (don’t miss the Memorial Wall), step inside St. Bartholomew the Great church, see Roman relics at the Guildhall and visit the Victorian-era Leadenhall Market.
Next, walk the length of Fleet Street – and pop into Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese – one of the oldest and most atmospheric London Pubs.
Evening: Experience the West End
As the evening approaches, work your way into the West End. Shop at Covent Garden, walk under the glow of lanterns in Chinatown and look at the glamourous window displays on Regent Street.
In fact, some of London’s top-end stores are nearby. Not to be missed are Hamleys Toy Store, Liberty London and Selfridge’s.
The West End is also London’s theater district. As you explore, make your way through Leicester Square and check for discounted tickets to use on Day 4 from the TKTS Ticket Booth.
For dinner, indulge in a classic pub meal. The 400-year-old Lamb and Flag in Covent Garden is a solid choice and David Bowie-themed The Starman in Mayfair is a fun spot, as well.
For a fancier affair, make a reservation at The Ivy on West Street. It’s the popular chain’s original location.
Itinerary Tip for Day 1
Too much walking? The Hop On Hop Off Red Route navigates through all the spots we feature on Day 1!
Alternatively, you can ride a red London double-decker bus. A single trip costs about $2 – and Route 9 passes by many of our recommended attractions.
DAY 2: London’s Skyline and Iconic Sights
Today is all about impeccable views and essential places to see. The day ends with a spectacular dinner on an elevated perch.
Morning: Thames River Walk
Begin your morning like a Londoner with breakfast on the go from Gail’s (midrange) or Greggs (budget), then discover the South Bank.
Take a spin on the London Eye if it’s on your list of things to do. Then, embark on a stroll along the Thames on The Queen’s Walk.
The riverside promenade passes by the Tate Modern (free), Shakespeare’s Globe Theater, Southwark Cathedral (free) and The Shard.
Afternoon: History of London
By lunchtime, arrive at the boisterous Borough Market, which is an attraction as much a place to eat.
The long-running marketplace features an incredible number of vendors that dish out local and international fare. We recommend completing a lap to see what is on offer before making a choice.
That said, our personal favorites are the Sausage Rolls from Ginger Pig and the Honey Truffle Parmesan Toasted Ciabatta from The Black Pig.
After a grazing lunch, cross over the lower level of Tower Bridge and step back in time at the Tower of London.
The riverside castle has been part of the landscape since the 11th century. A ticket is required to enter, but includes a guided tour.
One of the top reasons to visit the Tower of London is to see the Crown Jewels. They have been kept secure here since 1661 and are worn by royalty during coronations.
In addition to the sparkling gems, you can tour the historic fort, learn about history from a Beefeater and look for the legendary ravens.
Late Afternoon and Evening: Elevated London Views
London’s new and ever-expanding skyline also offers views from an elevated perspective. While the Shard stands as the city’s tallest building, the price to go to the top is also steep.
Instead, plan ahead and book free tickets to one of the newer skyscrapers – like the lush and beautiful Sky Garden or Horizon 22.
The Garden at 120 is another free rooftop in London. Although it is not quite as high as the other two, tickets are not required. Plus, the open-air terrace stays open until 9pm on weeknights.
For an exceptional experience, dine at a London rooftop restaurant. The posh Fenchurch Restaurant at Sky Garden and the fabulous Duck and Waffle at 110 Bishopsgate are two fantastic spots for a meal with a view.
Trip Planning Tip for Day 2
The London Pass might be cost-effective for those who want to squeeze in several ticketed sights.
It covers admission to the London Eye, The Shard, Tower Bridge Experience (on the upper level) and The Tower of London. Get more details!
DAY 3: Magnificent Museums, Pretty Places and Repurposed Spaces
Up next on your London One Week Itinerary are South Kensington, Chelsea and Battersea. In all three, museums and parks are top things to see.
Morning: Shopping and Free Museums
Begin your day at Harrods. The luxury department store boasts high-end fashion, a ‘Shoe Heaven’ and an popular food hall.
As you navigate through the lavish spaces, make your way to Harrods Cafe and order a sweet or savory ‘Braffle’ (a mashup of a Brioche and a Waffle).
Spend the rest of the morning at a Free London Museum in South Kensington. Our pick is the Victoria and Albert (better known simply as the V&A), which hosts an awe-inspiring collection of relics, artworks and exhibits.
Right next door to the V&A, the Natural History Museum and Science Museum are two more fantastic cultural institutions that are free.
Afternoon: Discover Chelsea and Battersea Park
Now it’s time to step out and discover Chelsea. Start with a quick bite to eat. Pizza is our top choice; either by-the-slice at Bread Ahead on Pavilion Road or a wood-fired classic at Franco Manca.
Next, stroll the length of King’s Road – Chelsea’s famous shopping street. Pop into the Saatchi Gallery and wander cute side streets (like Bywater and Godfrey). Visit St. Luke’s Church, where Charles Dickens was married in 1863.
Fans of soccer (or football, as it’s known outside of the US), can take a tour of Stamford Bridge, home of the famous Chelsea Football Club.
Late afternoon, cross the beautiful Albert Bridge and explore the expansive and lush Battersea Park. Top things to see are the ornate London Peace Pagoda, the trails around Boating Lake and the Children’s Zoo.
Evening: Battersea Power Station
This hulking riverside industrial facility was once responsible for providing a fifth of the power to London.
Falling into disuse in the 1980s, it sat empty for decades. Today it’s been entirely repurposed into a modern entertainment and residential hub.
You can take Lift 109 to the top of one of the old chimneys or learn about the history at the Power of Place Exhibition. For simple fun, play ping pong at Bounce or putt putt at Birdies!
For dinner, sit down to a divine feast of Indian fare at Dishoom. One of the newest installments of the uber-popular chain, they transport diners to 1950s Bombay with spicy and flavorful food. (Try the House Black Daal.)
Top Tip for Day 3
If the weather is rainy – and it often is in London – skip Battersea Park and go straight to the Power Station. In addition to the shops, The Cinema is a fantastic option for foul weather days!
DAY 4: Must-See Museum, Markets and Evening Out
Day 4 takes in the sights and attractions in the north-central Borough of Camden and ends with a theater performance.
Morning: The Marvelous British Museum
Kick off your day with a coffee and breakfast from one of London’s hip cafes, like Drury 188-189 or Victoria House Coffee. Once nourished, enter the rave-worthy British Museum.
Filled to the brim with treasures from around the world, the displays here are truly captivating – and free!
You can see the ancient Rosetta Stone from Egypt, set eyes on 2,500-year-old sculptures from the Greek Parthenon and contemplate a moai statue from Easter Island.
Be sure to grab a useful map at the entrance that outlines a 1-hour and 3-hour self-guided tour. Otherwise, you could wind up spending the entire day entranced in the exhibits!
Afternoon: Camden, Canal and Park
In the afternoon, ride the Tube (or take a cheaper bus) to the vibrant Camden Market.
Known for an eclectic vibe, off-beat wares and an extravaganza of street food, it’s the perfect spot for lunch and a wander. After your midday meal, follow Regent’s Canal to the west.
The waterway dates to the early 1800s when it was used for moving goods in and out of the city. Today, houseboats putter along the canal that is lined with unique flats and chic cafes.
Next, hike up Primrose Hill for a superb view. Then, take a detour to walk in the footsteps of London’s most famous band, The Beatles, and cross Abbey Road.
Now head for Regent’s Park. The green space is one of the eight Royal Parks in London. It’s home to a Japanese Garden, Rose Gardens and the London Zoo.
If you’re a fan of Sherlock Holmes, step inside 221B Baker Street to explore the museum dedicated to the witty detective.
Evening: Early Dinner and Theater
After all that walking, supper is in order! Harry’s is popular for Italian fare in a fun setting. The Guinea is an iconic establishment for fine steaks and the Mercato Mayfair food hall is situated inside an old church.
Then, get ready for a night at the theater. Hopefully you secured tickets in advance back on day 1. If not, you can search last-minute deals on the official website.
Alternatively, navigate through more of Marylebone and Mayfair. Peruse the titles at Daunt Books, shop on New Bond Street and observe the finer things along Mount Street.
For a nightcap, finish off the evening with a bit of flair at Mr. Fogg’s Residence cocktail bar!
Itinerary Tips for Day 4
In our opinion, the British Museum is not to be missed, but there are a few more interesting venues in the area.
The British Library Treasures Gallery (free) hosts a surprising collection of literary objects – including the Magna Carta.
The Wellcome Collection (free), Charles Dickens Museum, The Postal Museum and Sir John Soane’s Museum (free) are other nearby options.
DAY 5: London’s East Side
On day 5 of your London 7 Day Itinerary, spend time learning about the history of the shipping industry and view one of the most contemporary sides of the city.
Morning: See Modern London
Grab a box of donuts from Crosstown for a sugary start to your day – then hop aboard a Thames Clipper ferry boat and ride east to Canary Wharf.
Once the beating heart of the city’s shipping industry, these London docks have been revitalized as a second business district.
Marked by towering skyscrapers, sleek squares and unique green spaces (Crossrail Place Roof Garden is fabulous), Canary Wharf is a mesmerizing place to discover.
We believe it’s best to first have a proper introduction to the area at the free London Museum Docklands.
By midday, board the Docklands Light Rail (DLR) and travel under the Thames to Cutty Sark in the exquisite Royal Borough of Greenwich.
Afternoon: London’s Maritime Past
Arriving in Greenwich, sit down for a traditional lunch of Pie and Mash at Goddards; the establishment opened in the year 1890.
Pop into Greenwich Market, where you can buy something sweet for dessert. Then, begin discovering the borough that is home to an astounding number of attractions.
The most popular include the clipper Cutty Sark, the Royal Observatory (home to the Prime Meridian), the Maritime Museum and the Queen’s House Mansion (featuring artworks and lavishly decorated rooms).
You can also walk along the elegant lanes of the Old Royal Naval College (free) and step inside the elaborate Painted Hall.
Evening: Street Art in the East End
Finish the day in the East End of London. Traditionally a multicultural, working-class neighborhood, the area is edgy, bohemian and hip.
Catch the tail end of the Spitalfields Market before vendors pack up their antiques and bric-a-brac wares.
Shop for vintage goods and seek out street art murals along Brick Lane and the streets of Shoreditch. If you are fascinated by true crime, join a tour about the notorious Jack the Ripper.
The East End is also a dining destination offering a range of flavors, from the curry houses on Brick Lane (Aladin is a top pick) to melt-in-your-mouth meats at Smokestak to the collection of food kiosks at Boxpark.
What keeps luring us back, however, are take-away Salt Beef Bagels at the competing Beigel Bake and Beigel Shop on Brick Lane. Try one from each and decide which you think is best!
Travel Tip for Day 5
There is no direct route connecting Greenwich to the East End. The best way to make the journey is to ride the DLR from Cutty Sark to Canary Wharf or Bank.
At Canary Wharf switch to the Elizabeth Line or at Bank the Central Line and ride to Liverpool Street Station.
DAY 6: Posh Neighborhoods and Afternoon Tea
It might feel like your London vacation is winding down, but don’t you worry, there is still so much to do!
Morning: Portobello Road
Usher in the new day with a leisurely brunch in Notting Hill. Top eateries are Farm Girl (hipster avo toast), Beam (brunch classics with Middle Eastern flair) and Sunday in Brooklyn (pancakes and egg sandwiches).
Next, steer your way to Portobello Road Market. It’s best on Saturday, when the bazaar crawls through the streets.
The vendors here sell a bewildering array of goods from second-hand clothing to porcelain teacups to random antiques.
Spend time, too, just wandering the pretty neighborhood. Waltz through St. Luke’s Mews (recognizable from Love Actually), visit Notting Hill Bookshop and stroll down charming Westbourne Grove.
Afternoon: High Tea at the Palace
Around midday, arrive at Kensington Palace. The stately structure has served as a royal residence for more than 300 years.
It is where Queen Victoria was born and raised, the home of Charles and Diana for a time and where Will and Kate lived in London until 2022.
Guests are welcome to wander the sumptuous rooms – including the King’s and Queen’s State Apartments, the King’s Gallery and the grand King’s Staircase.
At the conclusion of the tour, stroll through Kensington Palace Gardens (open to the public for free) and make your way to The Orangery.
The pavilion was built in the early 1700s for Queen Anne, but today it is a restaurant serving a divine Afternoon Tea. (Make a reservation or book a guided Kensington Tea experience.)
After your meal of finger sandwiches and scones, spend the rest of the afternoon meandering through Hyde Park.
If time allows, walk the streets of Kensington, seeking out idyllic spots, like Kynance Mews and Drayson Mews. Additionally, The Design Museum at Holland Park is a good option.
Evening: Legendary Pub
Now turn your sights to The Churchill Arms. This pub is known for their outrageous exterior floral displays and a memorabilia-cluttered interior.
It’s also the perfect place for a beverage after a long day of sightseeing. When you get peckish, order Pad Siew and Spring Rolls from the bar’s long-standing Thai Kitchen menu.
DAY 7: London’s West Side
Wrap up your trip discovering the charming neighborhoods in West London before returning to the center for one last classic evening!
Morning: Kew Gardens
Start your day with breakfast at Pimlico Fresh near Victoria Station. Then, hop on the District Line to Kew Gardens. The Kew has a history that stretches back to the 18th century.
The massive garden features vibrant flowers, rare plants and a gorgeous Victorian greenhouse.
Paths weave through the landscaped space, leading to the Japanese Garden, the Carnivorous Garden and the Kitchen Garden, amongst others.
Afternoon: Richmond
Now head for Richmond, which feels more like a village than part of bustling London.
Enjoy lunch at The Prince’s Head. The pub serves as the fictional Crown and Anchor from the Ted Lasso TV series.
If it’s a Sunday, partake in the English tradition of a hearty Sunday Roast. Any other day of the week, order the scrumptious Beef Cottage Pie.
Those following in the footsteps of Ted Lasso will want to explore the area around the pub – as it was often used in filming.
Sit on the bench in the square next to the red telephone booths, walk down Paved Ct (where Ted lived) and stroll the perimeter of Richmond Green.
Afterwards, tour Richmond on foot. Walk along a very different looking River Thames and through Terrace Gardens to the Bulbous Betty Viewpoint.
From there, continue on to Richmond Park. Another of the Royal London Parks, it hosts a herd of Red and Fallow Deer that are typically pretty easy to spot!
Evening: A London Farewell
Once back in Central London, dine along the river. Indulge at OXO Tower Restaurant if you want to splash out on your last night. Otherwise, go for something more casual, like Truffle Burger on the South Bank.
Bid a final farewell to the city with a walk along the Thames after dark. Gaze at the stunning skyline illuminated at night as you use the bridges to crisscross the river.
Alternate Plan for Day 7
Richmond isn’t the only London suburb worth visiting. Highgate and Hamstead are fun to explore, too!
The highlight is the spacious Hamstead Heath, which provides a super view on clear days. Other things to see are the Highgate Cemetery (ticket required) and Kenwood House (free).
The Flask in Highgate – a historic and haunted pub that is sometimes frequented by celebrities – is a good option for a meal or a pint.
Alternatively, travel beyond London on a Day Trip. It’s a quick train ride to Windsor and the famous royal castle or Canterbury and the stunning cathedral.
You can also reach beautiful Bath (home to ancient Roman baths and gorgeous Georgian architecture) and vibrant Bristol (hosting a dazzling harbor and cool street art) by rail.
Another option is to go big and join a guided tour to Stonehenge, Windsor Castle and Oxford all in one day!
1 Week Itinerary London Map
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our map of things to do in London for a week from below.
One Week London Itinerary Travel Tips
We’ve outlined our ideal 7 Day London, England Itinerary. Now we are sharing some advice regarding the logistics of your UK trip.
How To Get to London
Most travelers arriving in London from beyond Europe will land at Heathrow Airport (LHR). Before buying plane tickets, read our Tips for Cheap Flights.
The airport is west of London and there are several options to get into the city center. The Heathrow Express is the fastest way into Central London; taking just 15 minutes from LHR to Paddington Station.
The slightly longer – and less expensive – route to Paddington is via the Elizabeth Line in 30 minutes.
The Piccadilly Line on the London Underground will get you to Soho in an hour. Buses are another option and take about 1 hour to reach Victoria Coach Station.
Travelers already in Europe might arrive at one of the other London airports, like Gatwick, Stansted or Luton. All of these are connected by inexpensive buses or spendy express trains.
Getting Around
London’s public transit network is extensive – and it’s easy for travelers to use! In our 7-Day Itinerary for London, we recommend using the Underground (Tube), buses and ferries.
We thoroughly explain transport options in our guide to London on a Budget. The Transport for London (TfL) official website can also be very useful.
Where To Stay in London
There are thousands of London places to stay. Despite the massive supply, prices typically range from baffling to outrageous and are often accompanied by less-than-flattering reviews.
Use our tips for finding Great Hotels at the Best Prices to help secure a reasonable rate at a decent property.
Our suggested spot for spending a week in London is the Best Western on Buckingham Palace Road.
Situated near Victoria Station, the moderately priced property is ideally located for London sightseeing adventures. For a quiet room, request one in the annex overlooking Hugh Street.
What To Pack for London
As packing can be a big source of angst, we are sharing a few tips specific to a weeklong London trip. Now grab our FREE Checklist and let’s go!
Durable Shoes: A solid pair of comfortable and versatile shoes are essential for walking around London. I like to wear these everyday trainers and Kris prefers Merrell trail shoes.
Travel Camera: Upgrade to a real camera for high quality photos. We use a Canon Rebel and a 18-135mm lens.
Day Bag: Our outline of what to see in London in 7 days features a lot of sightseeing. We recommend carrying everything you need in a zippered bag to deter pickpockets. You can find different styles in our article, Best Day Bags for Travelers.
Weather Gear: London weather can be a bit dramatic, so it’s best to be ready for it! Pack a lightweight raincoat and a sturdy travel umbrella.
Travel Insurance: No matter how well you prepare, plans can go awry. If your London getaway isn’t already insured, check the affordable rates and robust coverage at World Nomads.
Start planning your trip to the UK! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
More UK Travel Guides
- How To Spend Christmas in London
- 2 Days in Cambridge and 1 Day in Norwich
- One Day in Manchester and Things To Do in Birmingham
- Coastal adventures in Whitstable, Eastbourne and a Seven Sisters Hike
- Best of Scotland in 10 Days
- 3 Days in Belfast, Northern Ireland
- 1 Day in Cardiff, Wales
- Top Things To Do in Edinburgh
- Isle of Skye in 3 Days
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