Ideal 7 Day London Itinerary (Designed By A Local Londoner!)

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In need of a London itinerary for 7 days? Keep reading!

Planning a trip to London can feel overwhelming — which is exactly why I’ve created this London itinerary for 7 days. With so many iconic landmarks, neighbourhoods, and food spots to choose from, it’s hard to know where to start or how to fit it all into one trip.

I’ve lived in London for nearly a decade, and over the years I’ve figured out the perfect balance between must-see attractions and local hidden gems. This 7-day itinerary is exactly what I’d do if I were showing a friend around for the first time — with a mix of culture, food, green spaces, markets, and nightlife.

Expect a full week of walking, eating, and soaking up the best of the city. I’ll also cover where to stay, how to get around, and plenty of insider tips to make your visit as smooth (and memorable) as possible.

London Itinerary: 7 Days Overview

Here’s a quick snapshot of what you’ll be doing each day in London. This overview gives you the flow of the week — from major sights to local gems — before we dive into all the details below.

Day One: Explore the West End

Welcome to London! Your first day is all about easing into the city and getting your bearings — and there’s no better place to start than the West End. This area is buzzing with energy, packed with great food, shopping streets, and the city’s best theatres.

Morning

Most international flights arrive in the morning, so use this time to check in or drop off your bags. Grab a coffee — Flat White on Berwick Street in Soho is a great shout — and take a relaxed stroll around your hotel.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring Soho and Covent Garden — two of London’s most vibrant areas. Start in Soho, full of narrow streets, indie shops, and lively cafés. Head to Kingly Court (just off Carnaby Street) for lunch — a hidden courtyard packed with great food options. Try Club Mexicana for flavour-packed vegan tacos, or Darjeeling Express for standout Indian small plates.

After lunch, browse Carnaby Street, then wander over to Seven Dials and colourful Neal’s Yard, one of the city’s most Instagrammable corners. In Covent Garden, you’ll find street performers, boutique shops, and the historic Market Building — perfect for browsing or people-watching. Check out the Royal Opera House behind the scenes tour for something slightly different to do!

Getting around: This area is easily walkable. Everything from Kingly Court to Covent Garden is within 15–20 minutes on foot.

Evening

Book a table at Bubala Soho for dinner — a vibey, vegetarian Middle Eastern spot that’s full of flavour. It’s popular, so best to reserve in advance.

If you’re up for it, end your day with a classic West End show. Choose from big names like The Lion King, Mamma Mia, or Cabaret, or go for something indie at Soho Theatre. Book ahead on Ticketmaster, or try the TodayTix app for last-minute deals.

Getting around: Most theatres are within walking distance of Soho and Covent Garden. If you’re coming from further out, head to Leicester Square (Northern/Piccadilly Line) or Tottenham Court Road (Elizabeth/Central Line).

Day Two: Tick Off the Most Iconic Sites

Day two is all about classic London landmarks. This walking-friendly route takes you through the heart of historic London, with big sights and riverside views along the way.

Morning

Start bright and early at Trafalgar Square, one of London’s most recognisable public spaces. Get a photo with the lions, check out Nelson’s Column, and pop into the National Gallery, recently reopened after a major renovation — give it about an hour if you’re keen on art and photography.

Next, walk down The Mall towards Buckingham Palace. Aim to arrive by 10:30am to catch the Changing of the Guard (usually at 11am, but check the schedule online). It gets busy, so getting there early is key for a decent view.

Getting around: Take the Northern or Bakerloo Line to Charing Cross, or the Piccadilly Line to Piccadilly Circus and walk from there.

Afternoon

From Buckingham Palace, walk through St. James’s Park — one of the prettiest green spaces in central London. Grab a coffee or ice cream from the park café and enjoy the view of the lake and palace from the bridge.

Continue on foot toward Westminster, where you’ll find Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Abbey all within a short walk. If you’re up for it, consider a guided tour of the Abbey or Parliament — or just admire the buildings from the outside if you’d rather keep moving.

Next, walk across Westminster Bridge into Southbank and stop for lunch at either the Riverside Café at the Southbank Centre (casual, with river views and lots of seating) or Forza Wine, a stylish rooftop bar at the National Theatre serving small plates and natural wines — ideal if you’re after something more elevated.

Getting around: From Westminster, you can walk across the bridge to Southbank, or hop on the Jubilee Line at Westminster station to reach Borough in minutes.

Evening

Stick around Southbank for the evening — the riverside stretch is perfect for a relaxed stroll, with live music, book stalls, and great views of the city. Before dinner, take a ride on the London Eye for panoramic views across the skyline. Try to time your visit for sunset if possible — it’s a stunning way to see the city from above (book in advance to skip the queues).

Afterwards, grab a pre-dinner drink at The Understudy, a lively bar at the National Theatre. For dinner, try one of the many restaurants you’ll have passed during your walk along Southbank — there’s everything from riverside tapas to Thai street food — or head back toward your hotel area for even more local options.

Getting around: Head to Waterloo Station (Jubilee/Northern/Bakerloo Lines) to get back to your hotel, or walk along the Thames for a scenic route home.

Day 3: West London Museums and Parks

Today is all about culture, elegance, and fresh air. West London is home to some of the city’s best museums, leafy parks, and historic buildings — with plenty of time built in for browsing, strolling, and soaking it all in at your own pace.

Morning

Start your day in South Kensington, known for its world-class museums and grand terraces. Begin at the Natural History Museum, a favourite for its incredible architecture and fascinating exhibits (especially the dinosaurs!). Allow at least 1–1.5 hours here — more if you’re travelling with kids or a science lover.

Next, walk to the nearby V&A Museum — one of London’s most beautiful spots. The collection spans everything from fashion and sculpture to design and photography. It’s easy to lose track of time here, but even a quick browse is worth it.

Getting around: Take the Piccadilly Line to South Kensington — from the station, there’s a handy pedestrian tunnel that connects directly to the museums.

Afternoon

Stay at the V&A for lunch — the café courtyard is gorgeous, especially on a sunny day. The food is great for a museum café, and the setting is one of the loveliest spots to stop in all of London.

After lunch, walk up to Hyde Park via Exhibition Road and Kensington Gardens. If you’re into music or architecture, take a quick peek at the Royal Albert Hall en route. Once in the park, you can rent a deck chair, wander the Italian Gardens, or stroll down to the Serpentine for a waterside walk.

Getting around: Everything this afternoon is easily walkable. From the V&A, it’s about a 10–15 minute walk to Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park.

Evening

For dinner, hop on the Circle or District Line to Notting Hill Gate and explore one of London’s most charming neighbourhoods. Head to Holy Carrot, a stylish plant-based restaurant offering creative dishes in a beautifully designed space — perfect for a relaxed evening out and one of my favourites.

If time allows, take a short stroll around Westbourne Grove or Portobello Road for a peek at Notting Hill’s iconic pastel houses and boutique shops.

Getting around: Take the District/Circle Line from High Street Kensington to Notting Hill Gate, or walk if you’re nearby. From there, you can use the Central Line to get back to your hotel.

Day Four: Tower of London & Borough Market

Step back in time with a visit to one of London’s most iconic historical landmarks. Then balance it out with a delicious wander through one of the city’s best food markets. Today is a great mix of history, views, and food.

Morning

Head east to the Tower of London, one of my all-time favourite things to do in the city. You could easily spend half a day (or more!) exploring the medieval fortress, Crown Jewels, and fascinating Yeoman Warder tours. Don’t miss the old graffiti carved into the walls of the Tower — it’s full of eerie stories and hidden details. Check out my guide on the Tower here!

Getting around: Take the District or Circle Line to Tower Hill station — it’s right by the entrance to the Tower.

Afternoon

After your visit, walk across the iconic Tower Bridge (there’s a glass walkway at the top if you’re feeling brave!) and head to Borough Market for lunch. The market is full of street food stalls, fresh produce, and gourmet goodies — perfect for grazing.

If you’d rather sit down, book a table at Roast, which overlooks the market from above and offers modern British fare in a calmer setting. For something plant-based, Mallow (just across the road) is one of my favourite vegan restaurants in London.

Getting around: From Tower Bridge, it’s about a 15-minute walk to Borough Market. Alternatively, take the Jubilee Line from London Bridge if heading further afield.

Evening

After a full day of exploring, head to nearby Bermondsey Street — one of South London’s best foodie spots. Book a table at José, a lively Spanish tapas bar with delicious small plates and a warm, buzzing atmosphere.

If you’re still up for more, walk over to The Shard for a nightcap with a view. Whether you opt for a cocktail at Aqua Shard (my recommendation!) or book a visit to the View from the Shard (the observation deck), it’s a stunning way to end the day.

Getting around: From London Bridge Station (Jubilee/Northern Lines), it’s easy to get back to your hotel. Or take your time walking along the Southbank if you’re staying nearby.

Day Five: Day Trip From London

It’s time to swap city streets for countryside charm or coastal air. There are loads of brilliant day trips from London — whether you’re after history, nature, or seaside vibes, there’s something for everyone.

I’ve rounded up my favourite options in this post: 12 BEST Day Trips From London With & Without A Car. If you’re short on time, I’d suggest heading to Oxford for its beautiful spires, or Hastings for a proper old-school British seaside town.

Alternatively, for the Harry Potter fans out there, this is the day to book your visit to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour in Watford. It’s a magical experience (even if you’re only mildly obsessed) and easily done in a day from central London.

Getting around: Most day trips are under 90 minutes by train. Check out my linked guide for exact travel times, prices, and what to do when you get there.

Day Six: Explore Hackney Like a Local

Today’s all about soaking up the vibe of East London — a gritty, creative, ever-evolving part of the city that locals love. Think bustling markets, cool coffee spots, and some of the best food in London.

Morning

Start your day in Shoreditch, one of London’s most iconic East End neighbourhoods. If it’s a Sunday, head straight to Columbia Road Flower Market. It’s a colourful, chaotic burst of flowers, eastenders, and bargain plants that spills into the surrounding streets.

Afterwards, explore Brick Lane Market and Spitalfields, both within walking distance. Expect vintage clothes, secondhand books, antiques, and international food stalls galore. Stop for a coffee at Holy Shot or Ozone — two of the best in the area.

Getting around: Take the Overground to Shoreditch High Street or the Central Line to Liverpool Street and walk from there.

Afternoon

Hop on the Overground or take a 20-minute walk to Broadway Market, another weekend favourite. This stretch is packed with food stalls, independent shops, and pubs, and backs onto London Fields, which makes for a lovely picnic spot if the weather’s nice.

Make sure to grab a bite from the weekend market or Pocket (for the best falafel you will ever try). Browse the bookshops and quirky independents, and grab a pastry and coffee from Poppams, just north of the park.

Getting around: London Fields station is nearby for Overground links, or walk to Bethnal Green for the Central Line.

Evening

Head back toward Shoreditch’s Redchurch Street — a buzzy spot with loads of dinner options. Try Bao for Taiwanese buns, Cecconi’s for brilliant Italian, or Brat for Michelin-starred small plates with a focus on wood-fire cooking.

If you’re up for drinks afterwards, there are plenty of cool bars tucked down alleys or behind unmarked doors. I’m a fan of local haunts Jaguar Shoes and The Umbrella Workshop, both great for a nightcap with extra character.

Getting around: Shoreditch High Street, Liverpool Street or Old Street stations will all get you home — depending on where you’re staying.

Day Seven: Last Morning in London

Your final day will depend on your flight or onward travel plans, but if you’ve got a bit of time to spare, squeeze in one last wander or bite to eat before you go.

Morning

If you’re up early and want to make the most of your last few hours, head to the British Museum in Bloomsbury — one of the world’s most impressive collections of art, culture and history, and totally free to enter. Even just an hour here lets you glimpse the Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles and that iconic glass-ceilinged Great Court.

If you’re short on time or feeling a little slower, grab a hearty breakfast instead. The Breakfast Club is a London staple, with several locations across the city (Soho, London Bridge, and Hoxton are especially central). Go for the full English, pancakes, or veggie fry-up — it’s a great way to toast your trip.

Getting around: From central London, most major train stations and airports are easily accessible via the Underground. If you’re flying out of Heathrow, the Piccadilly Line or the Heathrow Express from Paddington are your best bets.

Where To Stay In London

For this itinerary, I recommend staying in or around Soho. It’s super central, packed with food, culture, and nightlife, and well connected by public transport. Soho is great if you want to be in the thick of it (think restaurants, bars, and West End theatres).

📍Best Budget Spot – Z Hotel Soho
Affordable, compact, and right in the heart of Soho. Z Hotel is perfect if you just need a clean, comfortable base while you explore the city.

📍Best Mid-Range Spot – The Hoxton, Holborn
Stylish rooms, a lively lobby, and a great location, just north of Soho. The Hoxton strikes the perfect balance between cool and comfortable.

📍 Best Luxury Spot – The Mandrake, Soho
A boutique standout in central Soho, with its own secret garden, cocktail bar and cinema. Glamorous without being stuffy — ideal for style-conscious travellers.

FAQs

Planning your first London itinerary? Here are some quick answers to the most common questions I get — from where to stay to how to get around.

Is 7 days enough for London?

Yes — a week is a great amount of time to properly explore the city without feeling rushed. You’ll have time to see the iconic sights, dive into a few different, more local boroughs, and even take a day trip or two. That said, whether you’re here for a weekend or two weeks, you’ll never run out of things to do.

Where to stay in London for the first time?

As mentioned above, I recommend staying somewhere central like Soho. You’ll be within walking distance of major attractions, restaurants, and transport links — perfect for first-timers who want to make the most of their trip.

Is London walkable?

Yes, especially in the central areas. Many of the city’s top sights are surprisingly close together — and some of the best moments come from wandering between them. You’re bound to find your own hidden gems this way. Just make sure to pack comfortable shoes!

Round up: London Itinerary – 7 Days

London is one of those cities that really has it all. There’s history, culture, green spaces, incredible food, and endless little pockets to explore. With seven days, you can get a true feel for the place.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip and feel a little more confident navigating this big, brilliant city. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, London always has something new to offer and there are so many amazing non-touristy things to do.

And if you’ve got any questions or want to share your own favourite finds, feel free to drop me a message — I love hearing from fellow travellers!