How many days do you need in London?

Planning a trip to London and not sure how many days you should spend? If you're squeezing in a weekend of big-ticket sights or planning to dig into the city's history and culture, this guide will help you decide how many days you need in London—and how to make the most of your time with sample itineraries.

How many days do you need to see London?

How long you stay really depends on how you like to explore. If you’re here for the big sights—Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, the British Museum—three days is enough for a solid overview. But if you want to dig into London’s neighborhoods, five days is a better bet. That gives you time to wander through Camden, Shoreditch, and Notting Hill, check out the food scene, hit a pub or two, and maybe catch a West End show. Prefer a slower pace? A week lets you see it all 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, so it's easy to see a lot without spending too much time commuting.

Suggested itinerary

Day 1

Start your day at the British Museum in Bloomsbury. With everything from the Rosetta Stone to Egyptian mummies, it’s one of those places where you could spend hours—but even a short visit is worth it. 

For lunch, grab a table at Dishoom in Covent Garden. The Indian food here is seriously good, and the lively atmosphere makes it even better. After you eat, take a walk around Covent Garden and Seven Dials, where you’ll find independent shops, street performances, and plenty of energy.

In the afternoon, wander over to Neal’s Yard, a colorful little courtyard that feels like a hidden pocket of the city. Then, end the day at Trafalgar Square, where you can step into The National Gallery to see works by Van Gogh, Turner, and Rembrandt—a perfect way to wind down.

Day 2

On your second day, start early at the Tower of London—there’s a lot to take in, and you won’t want to miss the Crown Jewels. After exploring, take a short walk to St. Katharine Docks for a relaxed lunch by the water—it’s quiet and it often feels like a nice break from the crowds.

Next, cross Tower Bridge for the views of the city and the Thames. Once you’re across, follow the South Bank on a laid-back 20-minute walk. You’ll pass Tate Modern, Shakespeare’s Globe, and plenty of street performers along the way.

Wrap up the day with a ride on the London Eye—the views are even better as the sun starts to set. Then, head to Skylon at the Royal Festival Hall for dinner with a view of the Thames. If you love this area, you'll want to see our weekend on the Thames itinerary.

3 days in London

Three days gives you just enough time to hit a few more must-see spots, and even start to get to see things that are a bit further away from Central London.

Suggested itinerary

Day 3

A great way to start your morning is with a walk through Hyde Park, one of London’s biggest green spaces. It’s a great spot to start the day, whether you want a peaceful stroll or just a break from the city’s energy. If you’re after something even quieter, wander over to Kensington Gardens next door—it’s a little more tucked away and perfect for a slower start.

For lunch, you might want to grab a table at The Orangery in Kensington Gardens. The setting is beautiful, and it’s a great spot to unwind before heading back out.

Next, walk about 10 minutes to the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A), packed with everything from fashion to medieval art and design. If you’re up for something a little different, check out Leighton House Museum, about 15 minutes from the V&A. It’s a lesser-known museum with incredible Victorian art and design in a gorgeous historic home. 

In the evening, hop on the Tube to Soho, one of the best areas for nightlife, great food, and people-watching. For dinner, grab a seat at Barrafina—a lively, no-fuss spot serving some of the best Spanish tapas in town. 

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

Start your day in Notting Hill, one of London’s most picturesque neighborhoods. The colorful houses and winding streets make it a great place to wander, and if you’re here on a weekend, Portobello Road Market is a must. You’ll find everything from antiques to food stalls and vintage shops, and it's without a doubt one of the best things to do in London.

For lunch, grab a table at Granger & Co.—a relaxed spot known for fresh, flavorful dishes. Afterward, take a short walk or bus ride to Holland Park and the Kyoto Garden, with its koi ponds, waterfalls, and carefully arranged stone paths. 

If you’re after something with more energy, head to Camden Market instead. It’s packed with street food, quirky shops, and live music. If you’re up for a night out, stick around for a show at The Roundhouse, a legendary venue that’s hosted some of music’s biggest names.

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, or see our full guide to London's neighborhoods.

Covent Garden: Best for first-time visitors

If it’s your first time in London, Covent Garden is a good place to start. It’s central, so you’re within walking distance of spots like the British Museum, National Gallery, and Royal Opera House. The market, street performers, and mix of shops give it a lively feel. It can be a bit touristy, but the cobblestone streets and tucked-away corners still make it a classic London experience. 

South Kensington: Best for families

South Kensington is ideal for families. It’s home to London’s museum hub—the Natural History Museum, Science Museum, and Victoria & Albert Museum—all free to enter and full of hands-on exhibits for kids. Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens are close by for some outdoor time, and the Diana Memorial Playground is a favorite for little ones. The area is safe and residential, with plenty of family-friendly restaurants and hotels that offer family rooms or apartments. Plus, the Piccadilly Line runs straight to Heathrow, making travel a little easier.

Borough Market area: Best for foodies

For food lovers, the Borough Market area is a dream. One of London’s oldest and best-known food markets, it’s packed with everything from fresh produce to incredible street food. The surrounding streets are full of great restaurants, ranging from casual eats to Michelin-starred spots. If you're up for a food experience, you’ll find cheese tastings, cooking classes, and craft beer tours along Bermondsey Beer Mile. The area still holds onto its historic character, with cobbled streets and Victorian buildings, and it’s easy to get to with London Bridge station right next door.

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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