How many days do you need in London?

Planning a trip to London and not sure how many days you’ll need? It really comes down to how much of the city you want to experience. Whether you’re after a whirlwind weekend of iconic sights or want to dive deeper into its culture and history, this guide will help you figure out how many days to spend in London, with suggestions for how to make the most of your time. 

How many days do you need to see London?

It really depends on how you like to explore.If you’re planning to see the major sights like Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and the British Museum, three days will give you a good overview. But if you want to dive into the city’s neighborhoods and explore a bit more, aim for at least five days. That way, you can check out places like Camden, Shoreditch, and Notting Hill and have time to enjoy London’s food scene, nightlife, and maybe catch a West End show. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, a week gives you even more time to enjoy everything without feeling rushed.

2 days in London

If you're short on time, you can still cover a lot of ground in two days. London is well connected by public transport, making it easy to see key attractions without spending too much time commuting.

Suggested itinerary

Day 1

Start your day at The British Museum in Bloomsbury. It’s right in the heart of the city, and there’s so much history packed into the space—from the Rosetta Stone to Egyptian mummies. Even if you’re short on time, you’ll still walk away with a great sense of the past. 

For lunch, make your way to Dishoom in Covent Garden. It’s a must-try spot, serving up fantastic Indian food in a fun, lively atmosphere. After that, take a stroll around Covent Garden and Seven Dials—two areas where you’ll find cool shops,and street performances. 

End the day with a trip to Neal’s Yard, just a few minutes’ walk away. It’s tucked away and feels like a quiet little hideaway, with colorful buildings and a relaxing vibe. Then, head over to Trafalgar Square to check out The National Gallery, where you’ll find masterpieces by the likes of Van Gogh, Turner, and Rembrandt.

Day 2

On your second day, get an early start with The Tower of London. It’s packed with history, and you won’t want to miss the Crown Jewels. From there, take a short walk to St. Katharine Docks for a calm lunch by the water. It’s a peaceful spot to unwind after a busy morning. 

Then, cross over Tower Bridge and take in the amazing views of the city and the Thames. Once you’re across, head along the South Bank for a leisurely 20-minute walk. You’ll pass the Tate Modern, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, and plenty of street performers. 

Round out the day with a ride on the London Eye. The views are beautiful, especially as the sun sets. Afterward, treat yourself to dinner at Skylon in the Royal Festival Hall, where you can look out over the Thames while you dine

3 days in London

Three days gives you just enough time to hit the must-see spots and discover a few hidden gems.

Suggested itinerary

Day 3

Start your morning with a visit to Hyde Park. It’s one of London’s largest parks, and it’s perfect for a morning stroll. If you’re in the mood for more peace and quiet, walk over to Kensington Gardens next door. It’s a calm, green space—perfect for escaping the hustle of the city. 

For lunch, pop into The Orangery in Kensington Gardens. The setting is beautiful, and it’s a great place to relax.

 Afterward, head to the Victoria and Albert Museum, just a 10-minute walk away. It’s full of art and design exhibits, from fashion to medieval pieces. If you want something a little off the beaten path, head to Leighton House Museum, a 15-minute walk from the V&A. It’s a hidden gem that showcases Victorian art and design in a stunning setting. 

In the evening, take the Tube to Soho—a lively neighborhood full of bars, restaurants, and nightlife. Grab dinner at Barrafina for some delicious Spanish tapas in a casual, friendly atmosphere.

4 days in London

Four days lets you take a slower pace and explore neighborhoods and markets that show off London’s character. You’ll get a deeper dive into the city.

Suggested itinerary

Day 4

Begin in Notting Hill, one of London’s most charming areas. It’s known for colorful houses and quaint streets, and Portobello Road Market is a must-see, especially on weekends. You’ll find antiques, food stalls, and all sorts of interesting shops. 

Afterward, head to Granger & Co. for a relaxed lunch—it's a laid-back spot serving fresh, healthy dishes. Next, take a short walk or bus ride to Holland Park and the Kyoto Garden. It’s a peaceful Japanese garden that feels like a retreat from the busy city. If you’re in the mood for something more alternative, head to Camden Market. It’s a lively area known for street food, eclectic shopping, and live music. Stick around for a show at The Roundhouse if you’re into live music—it’s an iconic venue with a rich history..

Best area to stay in London

London is full of personality, with each neighborhood offering its own character. Whether you’re diving into history, culture, or just looking to be in the thick of it, there’s a perfect spot for you. Here’s a quick guide to help you pick the right area to stay.

Covent Garden: Best for first-time visitors

If it’s your first time in London, Covent Garden’s a great place to start. It’s right in the center, so you’re close to must-see spots like the British Museum, National Gallery, and Royal Opera House—all just a short walk away. The atmosphere here is buzzing, thanks to the market, street performers, and quirky shops. It’s a bit touristy, but the charm of the cobblestone streets and hidden corners makes it feel like London through and through. Plus, with loads of Underground stations around, getting around is a breeze.

South Kensington: Best for families

South Kensington is ideal for families. The area’s home to London’s museum hub—the Natural History Museum, Science Museum, and Victoria & Albert Museum—all free to enter and packed with things that’ll keep kids entertained. Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens are nearby for some outdoor fun, and if you’ve got little ones, the Diana Memorial Playground is a favorite. It’s a safe, residential area, and there are plenty of family-friendly restaurants. Hotels here have family rooms or apartments, and the Piccadilly Line will take you straight to Heathrow, making travel a bit easier.

Borough Market area: Best for foodies

For food lovers, the Borough Market area is a dream. It’s home to one of London’s oldest and most iconic food markets, with everything from fresh produce to street food vendors. The surrounding streets are packed with cool restaurants, from casual spots to Michelin-starred places. If you’re into food experiences, there are cheese-tasting workshops, cooking classes, and nearby Bermondsey Beer Mile for craft beer tours. The area still has its historic charm, with cobbled streets and Victorian buildings, and it's super convenient, thanks to London Bridge station.

Things to know before going to London

London’s an exciting city, but it can be a lot to take in. Here are a few things that’ll make your trip run a little smoother. The weather can be pretty unpredictable, so always have an umbrella on hand. Rush hour can be packed, so keep that in mind when planning your travel. The city’s got so many neighborhoods, each with its own feel, so take the time to explore a few. And, while there’s plenty to see, London isn’t cheap, so budgeting will make sure you get the most out of your visit.

Daily budget

Here’s a ballpark estimate of what you might spend in a day in London

• Budget (£50-£100 / $60-$120 per day): This will cover staying in budget accommodations, like hostels or basic hotels, grabbing takeaway sandwiches or pub food, and getting around by bus or Tube. If you’re looking to stretch your budget, there are tons of free things to do, like museums and parks.
• Mid-range (£150-£250 / $180-$300 per day): This budget gets you a stay in a 3-star hotel or a private Airbnb, meals at mid-range restaurants, and a mix of paid attractions, like tours or theater tickets. It’s a good balance if you want comfort and quality.
• Luxury (£350+ / $420+ per day): For a luxury stay, this budget covers 5-star accommodations, fine dining, and premium experiences like private tours or West End shows. If you want to splurge, this will give you access to some top-notch London experiences.

How to get around

London’s public transport system is easy to navigate. The Tube is fast and covers most of the city, and you can save money by using an Oyster Card or contactless bank card. Buses are a bit cheaper and give you a more scenic route. If you want a different view of the city, the Thames Clippers river bus is a fun option. Walking is also a great way to get around, especially in central London, where so many of the attractions are close together. You can also hop on an iconic red double-decker bus or try one of the many bike-sharing schemes.

How to get to London

Getting to London is easy from almost anywhere. It’s served by multiple airports, including Heathrow, Gatwick, and Stansted. From Heathrow, the Heathrow Express gets you to central London in 15 minutes. If you’re flying into Gatwick or Stansted, the Gatwick Express or Stansted Express takes about 30 minutes. If you’re already in Europe, the Eurostar from Paris or Brussels is a fast and simple option. Once you’re in London, public transport makes getting to the heart very easy.

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