How to See London in 5 Days

A detailed overview of how to explore England’s Capital

London is one of the most popular tourist cities in the world and for good reason. From famous museums and art galleries to beautifully curated parks and historical monuments, there is plenty to see and do. While it may get a bad rap for being overcast and rainy, don’t let that stop you from visiting this incredible city.

Panoramic views from Gong Bar, Shangri-La

My recent trip to London was of particular personal significance. This was my first time back since having moved to the US at age 9. Best of all, I was returning with my fiancé and to watch my best friend of 20 years marry the love of her life. It truly felt as if things had come full circle.

Itinerary: London in 5 Days

Extra: Tour of Jack the Ripper or check out a nightclub in Leicester Square

  • Day 2: Covent Garden & Theater District

Extra: Attend a show at one of the 40 theaters in the Theater District

Extra: Tate Modern via Millenium Bridge and Borough Market

Extra: National Gallery in Trafalgar Square

Extra: Science Museum and/or Albert & Victoria Museum

Where to Stay

With so many neighborhoods, each with there own distinct charm, there isn’t necessarily a “best place” or “centrally located” area to stay in London. Where you stay heavily depends on your needs and what you plan to do. The popular attractions are spread out in clusters throughout multiple neighborhoods, so you will certainly be exploring beyond where you stay.

If you’re interested in nightlife and constant activity, opt for bustling Soho. Alternatively, staying in the City or Southbank would be better for those seeking quieter evenings. Covent Garden is popular with tourists and full of trendy restaurants and boutiques. Luxury hotels and high-end shopping can be found in the upscale neighborhood of Mayfair. Lastly, London is an expensive city and while affordable options can be found, affordable is relative. Overall, expect to pay more (for less space) for lodging than you might in other European cities.

Charming neighborhood in Kensington

How to Get Around

With a well connected and extensive tube, train and bus system, public transportation is readily available and although intimidating at first, fairly easy to navigate. Purchase an Oyster card if you plan to rely heavily on public transport. It can be purchased in advance or in person and can be used across London’s public transit systems. Cabs are also available, albeit are not the most economical or efficient (traffic) option. Rent a car only if you plan to leave London and only on the day you’re headed out. Otherwise, spare yourself the headache.

In my opinion though, the best way to see London is by foot! The boroughs are closer in proximity than they may seem, making it quite easy to explore from one to the next. Select a neighborhood(s) to explore each day and check out the notable sites as well as discover new ones. You’ll notice that this is exactly how the itinerary is set up! If it weren’t for aimless walking around, we wouldn’t have discovered what ended up being some of our favorite places.

Iconic Tower Bridge, often confused as London Bridge

Day 1: Soho & Central West End

Formerly a paradise for debauchery (HQ for prostitution and gangsters), the fun and trendy neighborhood of Soho made a perfect home base for the first portion of our trip. While you won’t find gangsters roaming the streets anymore, you will find a lively atmosphere and many options for dining and entertainment. Soho has also been at the forefront of London’s LGBTQ scene and is home to several well known gay bars. Be sure not to miss the popular Carnaby street, lined with quirky shops as well as fun bars and restaurants. We had dinner at Dishoom in Carnaby and it did not disappoint!

Within walking distance of Soho are several points of interest so we found ourselves slowly making our way through the streets of Chinatown, Leicester Square as well as the iconic, Piccadilly Circus. Stopping in at stores that caught our interest along the way, we eventually ended up in beautiful St.James’s Park, a popular spot for feeding the ducks. Ultimately, we found ourselves at Buckingham Palace (the Queen’s residence) via a short walk through the park. Even though we couldn’t catch it this time, there is a changing of the guards ceremony that takes place every other day at the palace at 10:45AM. Make sure you get there early to get a good viewing spot!

Piccadilly Circus

Day 2: Covent Garden

Covent Garden is probably one of the most “touristy” areas in London and it is easy to see why. Here you’ll find large international chain stores like TUMI and H&M, as well as European stores and local boutiques. Mango is a personal favorite (think Zara). Start the day off with breakfast at Neal’s Yard, a colorful courtyard full of restaurants with outdoor seating. We had delicious breakfast panini’s here then headed to Covent Garden Market, which is a great place to grab local treats like tea or jams as well as souvenirs. Expect the area to be busy during the day with tourists and even busier in the evening when locals come to the pubs, especially on weekends.

Covent Garden is also next to London’s Theater District or Theaterland. Catch any number of broadway shows, concerts or listen to Opera at Royal Opera House. Between the shopping, shows and pubs — there is always something going on here!

Covent Garden Market, Neal’s Yard and a Pub in Covent Garden

Day 3: City of London & South Bank

The City of London is actually the only portion of London that is truly London. However, the regular usage of London now encompasses the surrounding neighborhoods as well. Located in the City is the business district as well as the architectural landmark of St. Paul’s Cathedral. If you have time, climb the dome of the Cathedral to see panoramic views of the city! After, walk across the nearby Millennium Bridge (Harry Potter fans will find this bridge familiar) to cross the river and visit the Tate Modern art museum.

St. Paul’s Cathedral

We instead headed towards the South Bank and to the Tower of London, a historic fortress and the Queen’s castle, located on the Thames. Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the booths in the square outside the castle. There are both guided and self-guided tours available, do a guided tour, if possible. From beheadings to battles to being the location of the Crown Jewels, there is lots history to soak in here. Tower Bridge, often confused with London Bridge, is also in perfect view from outside the Tower of London.

  • Outside the Tower of London
  • Inside the Tower of London
  • The World Famous Tower Bridge

We capped the day off with cocktails and a view at Gong Bar, part of hotel Shangri La in the Shard, followed by dinner at the most beautiful restaurant, Circolo Popolare.

Day 4: Westminster

The day started off with rain, as it often does in London. We grabbed our umbrellas (be sure to pack one!) and headed off towards Trafalgar Square, stopping at The Breakfast Club first for a hearty meal. A significant landmark for centuries, Trafalgar Square is home to The National Gallery as well as the much photographed lion statues and is popular spot to gather.

One of 4 lion statues in Trafalgar Square

Westminster is home to almost every major government building, from 10 Downing Street, where the Prime Minister resides, to Big Ben and the Parliament Buildings to Westminster Abbey, famous for Royal coronations, burials and most notably weddings. Situated alongside the River Thames, it is as iconic London as you can get. Tours are also available for parliament, the Abbey and Big Ben.

The most London photo I could have taken

Strolling along the riverbank, taking in the views of the government buildings and the London Eye, we headed back towards Covent Garden for high-tea at The Savoy Hotel. There is nothing more British than hot tea, tea sandwiches and scones served with clotted cream and homemade jam. For dinner, we headed out of the city to see family and returned just in time for a final cocktail at quirky Sketch to end the day.

Day 5: Knightsbridge, Kensington & Marylebone & Mayfair

Our last day in London started with a quick breakfast at Harrods, in the neighborhood of Knightsbridge, which can be easily accessed via Knightsbridge tube station. It is possible to spend hours getting lost in Harrods, but we stopped into a few sections (Christmas), grabbed an assortment of bakery items from their food hall and then headed out on foot towards South Kensington to visit The Natural History Museum.

Located on Exhibition Road, the Natural History Museum is one of three major museums on this road. We did not have enough time to visit the nearby Science Museum and Victoria and Albert Museum. However, if you must pick one, make it the Natural History Museum. With specimens collected by Charles Darwin himself and fossils of dinosaurs it is worth a visit, regardless of age. And best of all, it is free.

Blue whale skeleton at The Natural History Museum

The day ended with a leisurely walk through Hyde Park towards Marylebone & Mayfair. We passed by the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain and watched families paddle boating in the lake. After a quick stop in at the Selfridges food hall for ramen, we spent the rest of the evening exploring the high end shops of Oxford, Bond and Regent streets. Popping in at pubs or lounges for a drink whenever we needed a break and finally ended with a delicious Sri Lankan dinner at Hoppers.

Final Thoughts

There are is so much to do in London that it would be virtually impossible to cover it all in a single trip. However, my hope is that this itinerary provides a balanced taste of what the city has to offer. If you have extra days, try fitting in a day trip to Oxford, Bath or Windsor Castle or explore the charming villages of Cotswold. Happy Exploring!

Views from Southbank of the Shard and City Hall

Have you been to London? Comment below with your favorite thing to do!

To see a more detailed review of my favorite bars and restaurants, check out this post.

Note: The Beyond Borders Collective is not paid to endorse the properties or guides referenced within this blog; commentary is based solely off of our own personal travel research and experiences.