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London, with its rich history, iconic landmarks, and vibrant culture, offers an unforgettable experience for travellers. If you’re planning a week-long trip to this bustling metropolis, here’s a curated itinerary to help you make the most of your time in the city.
Day 1: Arrival and Central London Exploration
Our London adventure begins with a visit to Buckingham Palace, the iconic residence of the British monarch. You may want to just admire it from the outside, or get the ticket to visit the inside. If you arrive early, witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony – free to attend and starts at 10:45 am every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday with the actual handover at 11 am. It gets quite crowded though so arrive early to secure your spot! Then take a leisurely stroll through St. James’s Park towards Westminster Abbey (entrance ticket link). Delve into centuries of history as you explore this magnificent Gothic masterpiece.
Day 2: London Museums and Galleries
Immerse yourself in art, science, and culture by spending a day in South Kensington. Visit the Victoria and Albert Museum (art, design and performance museum), the Natural History Museum, and the Science Museum, all located within walking distance of each other. To be honest, you could spend an entire day on each of these museum, and not finish them, they are SUPER huge. best of all, they are FREE! Natural History Museum and Science Museum have a link to book your free ticket. So don’t forget to prebook your ticket for both Natural History Museum and Science Museum. The last time I was there, you could just walk in, so I think it’s a change after the pandemic. You could plan this museum day for any rainy days, if there are rainy forecast on your visit.
Day 3-4: South Bank and Thames River Attractions
Right by the charming Thames River, London’s got a boatload of cool stuff to check out. Picture this: the Tower Bridge, standing tall and proud, showing off against the city skyline. Then there’s the Tower of London, packed with juicy history and the Crown Jewels. Wander along the South Bank, catch a show at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, or hop on the London Eye for epic views. And don’t miss a river cruise—you’ll glide past Parliament, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and more, soaking up all that London charm. Whether you’re into history, good eats, or just chilling by the water, the Thames has got you covered. If you have time afterwards, explore the lively atmosphere of Covent Garden, known for its street performers and boutique shops. In the evening, treat yourself to a world-class production in London’s renowned West End theater district.
I’ve put this as tentatively 1-2 days, because it depends whether you want to visit every single attraction or to just stroll around, and how much you are wanting to stroll in a day.
Day 5: Royal Parks and Palaces
Spend a day exploring the regal splendor of Kensington Palace and its beautiful gardens. Just like Buckingham Palace, it is possible to enter the Kensington Palace with an entrance ticket. Afterward, immerse yourself in the cultural scene at the nearby Royal Albert Hall, where you can catch a performance or take a guided tour. End your day with a leisurely stroll through Green Park or Hyde Park, soaking in the tranquil ambiance.
Day 6: Historical Landmarks in London
Dive into the fascinating history of London with visits to the British Museum and the National Gallery. Advanced booking is recommended for the British Museum, though as with most museums in London, the ticket is free – link to book ticket here. Marvel at priceless artefacts and masterpieces by renowned artists from around the world. As the day transitions into evening, enjoy the beauty of the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben illuminated against the night sky. UK residents can get a House of Parliament ticket for free by contacting your MP, otherwise you can book them here.
Day 7: Relaxation and Departure
On your final day in London, savour a leisurely breakfast at a charming café. Then, embark on some last-minute shopping on Oxford Street or exploring the quaint streets of Notting Hill. If you are a fan of the movie and wants to visit the shooting locations, there is a tour for that! Depending on your departure time, take advantage of any remaining hours to soak in the city’s ambiance or relax in one of its picturesque parks.
As you bid farewell to London, carry with you cherished memories of a week filled with exploration, discovery, and cultural immersion. I have visited London 4-5 times, a few days each, and still haven’t finished all that I want to visit. Though, hope that this guide will still give you a good overview of London! Until next time, London will keep calling with tons of cool stuff to do and explore. Cheers to a week well spent in the heart of the British capital!
After London, you may want to visit Manchester, which you’ll want to visit these 10 places to complete your Manchester bucket list and maximise your Manchester experience!