The Best 4 Days in London Itinerary (by a local)

4 days in London is a good amount of time to appreciate what this pulsating city has to offer. In this guide, I’ll share a recommended four-day London Itinerary, including the best places to visit, where to eat, sleep, and party, as well as all of my top tips for visiting.

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Where to Stay in London 

If you want to be at the heart of all the action, consider staying in Victoria or Covent Garden.

For the night owls and fashionistas, Soho is a chic central neighbourhood boasting a realm of nightlife, restaurants, and shopping.

For those looking for somewhere a little offbeat and quirky, I would look into staying in Shoreditch (East London) or Camden (North London).

If you’re travelling as a family or you’d prefer a more ‘local’ neighbourhood vibe, I suggest staying in Notting Hill or Kensington.

Alternatively, you may look at staying nearby, in which case you can compare hotels in here. Or use the Map below to see all your options​:

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Suggested 4 Days in London Itinerary

• Day 1: Iconic London Landmarks & Sights
• Day 2: London History & Culture
• Day 3: London Museums, Parks, and Shopping
• Day 4: Offbeat London and Hidden Gems

Day 1 of 4 Days in London

• Big Ben & The Houses of Parliament
• St James Park
• Westminster Abbey
• Buckingham Palace
• Picadilly Circus & Trafalgar Square
• Covent Garden & China Town

Use this Transport for London journey planner to map out your journey. 

Big Ben & The Houses of Parliament

Big Ben (which is the name of the bell, not the tower) and the Houses of Parliament are considered national treasures of London.

Most will be happy to admire from the outside. But if you’re at all interested in politics, it is possible to witness a debate at the Houses of Parliament.  

Westminster Abbey

A short 5-minute walk from Big Ben is Westminster Abbey – One of the UK’s most notable churches.

Alongside a striking exterior, the Abbey is a treasure house of paintings, stained glass, and artefacts documenting over 1000 years of British history.

It’s much cheaper to book in advance, than on the day.

St James Park

One of 8 royal parks in London, James Park is incredibly picturesque and an ideal spot to take a break from the hustle & bustle.

On route to the park, you can walk past Downing Street, the home of the British Prime Minister. You can’t walk down the street itself, but you can give Rishi a wave (or the finger) through the gate.

Buckingham Palace

A gentle stroll through St James Park will lead you to Buckingham Palace – the official London residence of the Royal Family.

Most visitors come to witness the changing of the guard. The guards in their traditional red tunics and bearskin hats are national icons and it’s free to attend.

Always check the changing guard website on the date you plan to visit.

Piccadilly Circus & Trafalgar Square

From Buckingham Palace, make your way to Piccadilly. Stroll the famous street lined with luxury hotels and designer stores. Eventually, you’ll end up at Piccadilly Circus – London’s answer to Times Square.

Here you’ll find all things iconic to London. London Underground signs, red phone boxes, and red double-decker buses all make for the perfect Instagram photo.

An 8-minute walk from Piccadilly Circus will land you in Trafalgar Square. You’ll always find something to keep you entertained, whether it be local street performers and artists or something on a much larger scale.

Otherwise, admire the monuments and fountains that adorn the square. Or visit the grand National Gallery which is free to enter.

Covent Garden & China Town

To round off your day, I suggest making your way to Covent Garden. Here you can enjoy a pre-dinner beverage or two at one of its plentiful bars and pubs.

You’ll also find several excellent restaurants in the area if you want to stick around for dinner. Otherwise, I recommend taking a stroll to Chinatown, where you will find the best Chinese food in the city.

Day 2 of 4 Days in London

• The Tower of London
• London’s Bridges
• The Shard
• Borough Market
• Saint Dunstan in the East
• St Pauls Cathedral
• The British Museum
• Soho

Use this Transport for London journey planner to map out your journey.

Tower of London

The Tower of London is one of the most important historical buildings in all of the UK. And with that, an essential addition to any London itinerary.

The famous Yeoman Warder Tour is the perfect way to learn all about the towers’ grizzly past. It is worth noting that some areas of the tour may be frightening for young children.

There are other tours you can do, such as See the Crown Jewels or Meet the Ravens. Either way, it’s a guaranteed fun-filled experience for all the family at this famous world heritage site.  

The Shard

Next up, cross over the legendary Tower Bridge to The Shard. One of the newest additions to London’s skyline, The Shard is one of the most recognisable skyscrapers in the city.

Natalie and I went to the View from the Shard not long after its opening in 2013. We enjoyed a glass of champagne from the viewing deck. Expensive but worth it for unrivalled views over the city.

Borough Market

There are tons of food markets in London, especially during the Summer. But Borough Market will always be my favourite.

I’ve listed some of my favourite eateries below.

Vegan? Check out this Vegan Guide to Borough Market.

• Lebanese: Nana Fanny’s
• Indian: Horn Ok Please
• Meat Lovers: Hobbs Roast Meat
• Bakery Goods: Bread Ahead

Saint Dunstan in the East

What was once a Church of England Parish Church, the remaining ruins are now a secluded public garden. The range of plants wending their way around the remains makes for an enchanting scene.

You won’t need long here, but I would certainly stop by en route to St Paul’s Cathedral.

St Pauls Cathedral

When spending four days in London, don’t miss St Paul’s Cathedral—another of the city’s leading sightseeing attractions.

The cathedral has played an integral role in British culture for over 1400 years. It was largely destroyed in the great fire of London. It’s gone on to host a number of high-profile weddings and funerals.

If you purchase a ticket to go inside, you can take a guided tour of the cathedral floor and crypt, climb its three galleries, and enjoy panoramic views from the top of the dome. 

The British Museum

Like most London museums, I’ve visited the British Museum countless times. It’s honestly my favourite London activity. Most museums in London are completely free to enter.

There are over 60 mesmerising galleries to explore at the British Museum. My personal favourites are the ancient Egyptian exhibits. Others feature artefacts from ancient Greece, Mexico and Japan.

Soho

Now is the time to kick back and relax with a cocktail in hand. Tonight, I recommend heading to Soho, one of the most vibrant districts in Central London.

This area is renowned for being the epicentre of London’s LGBTQ+ culture, but it’s also home to an abundance of trendy bars and chic restaurants.  

Day 3 of 4 Days in London

• The National History Museum
• The Science Museum
• Afternoon Tea @ Harrods
• Hyde Park
• Oxford Street & Covent Garden
• West End Show

Use this Transport for London journey planner to map out your journey.

National History Museum

Okay, it’s day 3 in London, and we will spend the morning at some of my favourite London museums. Remember, the majority of museums are free in London, so it’s set to be a cheap morning!

I’ve been visiting the National History Museum since I was a little kid, and one thing I continue to love about it is how immersive and theatrical it is. Not to mention, it’s one of the most impressive buildings in the city. 

Science Museum

You could easily spend the entire morning at the National History Museum. But if time allows, I also suggest checking out the Science Museum, which is just around the corner.

The museum documents the accounts of groundbreaking scientific achievements throughout the years. The entire family is sure to enjoy the interactive displays, designed to both educate and entertain. 

Afternoon Tea at Harrods

There are several great restaurants near the museums. But if Traditional Afternoon Tea is on your London bucket list (which it should be), Harrods is just a 15-minute walk away.  

I’m sure Harrods needs little introduction. It’s the most famous department store in London and, despite its luxurious reputation, has a diverse customer base.

While a little on the pricey side, you’re guaranteed the real deal when it comes to Afternoon Tea at Harrods.

Hyde Park

If afternoon tea at Harrod’s sounds a bit fancy, you could grab something to go and head to nearby Hyde Park.

Hyde Park is to London what Central Park is to New York: a sprawling open space of meadows, lakes, flower gardens, and beautiful old trees.

Enjoy famous landmarks such as the Princess Diana Memorial, Serpentine Lake, and Speakers Corner. Eventually, you’ll arrive at Marble Arch, where our shopping endeavours can begin.

Oxford Street & Covent Garden

Everybody knows that London is one of the fashion capitals of the world. So if you’re looking to glam up your wardrobe, this is the place to do it.

You don’t need to be flashed for cash, either. Some of the UK’s most affordable high-street brands, such as River Island, Zara, and even Primark, have flagship stores here.  

Continue your spree into Covent Garden, where the large fashion houses are replaced with quaint boutique stores.

West End Show

Listen up; you absolutely cannot spend 4 days in London without experiencing the magic of a West End Show. Some of my favourites include The Lion King, Wicked, Mama Mia, Chicago, and Les Miserables.  

Unfortunately, ticket prices have increased substantially in recent years. So if you’re travelling as a family, it’s going to burn a hole in your wallet. But honestly, it’s worth it.

Day 4 of 4 Days in London

• Leake Street at Waterloo Vaults
• Leadenhall Market
• Shoreditch
• Columbia Road Flowers
• Camden Town

Use this Transport for London journey planner to map out your journey.

Leake Street at Waterloo Vaults

Our first stop is Leake Street at the Waterloo Vaults. A labyrinth of old railway arches beneath Waterloo Station, The Vaults is home to all things weird and wonderful.

At night the tunnels are bustling with theatre, comedy, music and other immersive events. But for now, we will be visiting the Leake Street Tunnel. Otherwise known as the ‘Banksy Tunnel’.

The tunnel is one of the only places in London where graffiti is not only permitted but encouraged. The result is a plethora of artwork from various artists.

Leadenhall Market

Next, hop on the tube to Monument or Bank station, and make your way to Leadenhall Market. An ornate Victorian marketplace, it’s home to several designer stores, restaurants, and London pubs.  

It is also one of many Harry Potter locations in London and inspired Diagon Alley in the films.

*Consider yourself a Harry Potter fanatic? Check out this best-selling Harry Potter-guided walking tour and trace the footsteps of your favourite witches and wizards around Muggle London.

Shoreditch

Our next stop is just a short 15-minute walk away. End up in Shoreditch – one of London’s most trendy and happening neighbourhoods.

Famed for its impressive street art, diverse culinary & nightlife scenes, antique markets and infectious hipster vibe, it’s one of my favourite spots in the city. It is offbeat London at its finest. 

You could spend a couple of days exploring all that there is to see and do in Shoreditch, but Brick Lane is a great place to start.

Camden

If you can tear yourself away from Shoreditch, I suggest hopping on the Northern Line and making your way to Camden Town.As much as I love Shoreditch, Camden is my favourite spot in London.

If you’ve heard of Camden, it’s likely because of its legendary music scene. A cool London fact for you: Camden has paved the way to success for many iconic British artists, including The Beatles, Madness, Amy Winehouse, and Madonna.

In fact, if you do make it to Camden, checking out a live music venue such as The Roundhouse, Koko, or Electric Ballroom is the perfect way to round off your London Itinerary.  

Other Things to do with 4 Days in London

Up at the O2

Thrill-seekers might want to try their hand at some ‘urban mountaineering‘ at the UK’s beloved entertainment venue, The O2.

Historically, the iconic white dome was built to celebrate the turn of the Millennium; however, it proved to be such a hit that it’s now a permanent addition to the city skyline. 

Notting Hill

With its ‘Insta-Famous’ multi-coloured houses, a vibrant annual street festival, and the classic Hollywood movie by the same name, Notting Hill needs little introduction.

Beyond the flock of influencers and movie-famous landmarks, its charm is timeless. I love to stroll down Portobello Road shopping at one of London’s oldest markets before finding a beautiful spot for brunch.  

Thames River Cruise

Arguably one of the best ways to experience this fast-paced city is on the water. Ditch the crowds and take in the sights without a care in the world.  

Depending on your budget, there are several Thames Cruise packages you can choose from. Get Your Guide offers a wide selection of tours at a competitive rate, so it’s worth checking them out before your trip.

Take a Day Trip

If you’re staying longer than four Days in London, I suggest taking a day trip outside of the city. With our beautiful coastal towns and quaint countryside villages, there’s a lot to see.

Brighton is one of the UK’s favourite seaside destinations and an epicentre of LGBT+ culture. Or, if you have more time, I recommend checking out Durdle Door on the Jurassic Coast.

If you consider yourself a history buff, you won’t want to miss Stonehenge. A prehistoric monument and world heritage site, Stonehenge remains one of the biggest historical mysteries of all time. 

Consider yourself a die-hard Potter fan. Don’t out on miss a wizardly adventure to the Harry Potter and Warner Brothers Studio.

4 Days in London FAQs

Getting Around in London

London’s public transport network is one of the best in the world. OK, it could do with some upgrades here and there but it’s super reliable and easy to understand.  

First and foremost, I strongly encourage you to get an Oyster Card. The Oyster Card will ensure you get the cheapest rates when travelling around London.

It also caps your spending once it reaches a certain amount, which is great if you’re moving around a lot throughout the day. You get the same deal if you use a contactless payment card.

If you’re travelling with children, order them an Oyster Card 4 weeks in advance. That way, children under 10 travel for free and under 18s at a discounted rate.

Many transport networks are operating in London, from buses and trams to trains and riverboats. You can plan out your journeys using the Transport for London journey planner.

The Best Time to Visit London

There isn’t any right or wrong time to visit London, as there is a great atmosphere all your round.

If you are relying on warm and dry days for sightseeing, between May and September will be your safest bet. Though this is London, so you should always prepare for some rain. 

July and August tend to be the warmest months, but it’s also peak season, so expect inflated rates for flights and hotels.

A lot is going on in the Summer, such as festivals and outdoor food markets. Londoners love to celebrate when the sun is shining, so you can expect a great vibe in the city.

London is also very festive throughout December. The city’s Christmas lights are stunning, and there are a few Christmas markets. It’s also the season for Winter Wonderland, which is not to be missed.

Enjoy Your 4 Days in London!

I hope you enjoy your 4 Days in London. If you’re visiting the city soon, you might find some of our other London articles helpful.

If you have any questions, please ask. Otherwise, I wish you happy and safe travels.

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