5-Day London Itinerary: The Perfect First Trip

London packs an incredible amount into a compact destination — timeless royalty, world-class museums, and a legendary pub scene. Five days gives you enough time to hit the highlights, discover a few secret spots, and still leave room for spontaneous detours.

Here is a tried-and-tested 5-day itinerary that balances must-sees with off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Day 1: Arrival & First Impressions

Morning/Afternoon: Arrive and settle into your accommodation in South Bank — Thames riverside with Tate Modern and London Eye. Take it easy — grab a coffee, orient yourself, and shake off the jet lag.

Late Afternoon: Head to Tower of London for your first taste of what makes London special. The late-afternoon light is ideal for photos and the crowds start to thin.

Evening: Dinner in the South Bank — Thames riverside with Tate Modern and London Eye area. Try Fish and Chips — battered cod with thick-cut chips and mushy peas — it is the quintessential local dish and the perfect way to kick off your trip.

Day 2: The Iconic Highlights

Morning: Start early at Buckingham Palace. Arriving before 9 AM means fewer tourists and better photo opportunities.

Afternoon: After lunch, make your way to Tower Bridge. Budget about 2–3 hours here to fully appreciate the experience.

Evening: Explore the Camden — alternative markets with street food and live music neighborhood on foot. Street food stalls serve excellent Full English Breakfast — eggs, bacon, sausage, beans, toast, and tomato at a fraction of restaurant prices.

Day 3: Deep Dive into Culture

Morning: Visit British Museum — one of London's most culturally significant sites. Hire a local guide for about $18 to get the stories behind the sights.

Afternoon: Wander through the Kensington — museums, gardens, and elegant townhouses district. This is where locals shop, eat, and socialize, so the vibe is refreshingly authentic.

Evening: Treat yourself to a mid-range dinner featuring Afternoon Tea — finger sandwiches, scones with cream, and pastries. Expect to spend around $45 per person.

Day 4: Off the Beaten Path

Morning: Today is about discovery. Head to Leadenhall Market — Victorian covered market that inspired Diagon Alley — a spot most tourists overlook entirely.

Afternoon: Check out Hampstead Heath — hilltop views of the London skyline from Parliament Hill. The Shoreditch — street art, vintage shops, and tech startups area is great for a leisurely walk and a late lunch.

Evening: Experience London's nightlife scene — Soho — cocktail bars and late-night clubs around Old Compton Street.

Day 5: Final Gems & Departure

Morning: Use your last morning to visit Little Venice — canal boats and waterside cafes in Maida Vale or revisit a favorite spot from earlier in the trip.

Late Morning: Pick up souvenirs at Oxford Street and Regent Street — flagship high-street stores — support local artisans and avoid airport markup.

Afternoon: Head to the airport with memories (and a full camera roll) to last a lifetime.

Pro Tips

• Transport: The Tube (Underground) is the fastest way around with 11 lines
• Budget: A comfortable mid-range daily budget is about $180 per day including meals, transport, and activities.
• Packing: Bring a waterproof jacket — London drizzle is unpredictable You will average 12,000–15,000 steps per day on this itinerary.
• Etiquette: Queue properly — cutting in line is a serious social faux pas
• Safety: Watch for pickpockets on the Tube and at major tourist sites

Budget Breakdown (Per Person)

Category	Budget	Mid-Range	Luxury
Daily Total	$60	$180	$500
5-Day Total	$300	$900	$2500

Final Thoughts

Five days in London is enough to fall in love with the place — and to start planning your return trip. This itinerary is a starting point; feel free to swap days around based on weather, energy levels, and serendipitous discoveries.

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