Four Day London Itinerary

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 be sharing a recommended four day London Itinerary, including the best places to visit, where to eat, sleep, & party, as well as all of my top tips for visiting.

London is one of the most happening and exciting cities in all of Europe. Maybe it’s because I’m a Londoner that I love London town, but it’s true.

With its rich history, vibrant culture, magnificent architecture, eccentric fashion, wild nightlife, and unrivalled culinary scene, London ignites your senses in every possible way.

I’d like to think I know London city pretty well. After all, I lived and worked here most of my life. That’s how I know that my 4 day London itinerary is the best on the internet.

I’m here to advise you on all of the top London hotspots, as well as some cool hidden gems that not many tourists get to hear about. I will also share my insider tips and knowledge to ensure you have the best possible time exploring the city.

Sound good? Let’s get to it then. Here is a perfect Itinerary for 4 Days in London.  

London Thames River Cruise

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Is 4 Days in London Enough?

London is a massive city, it boasts an abundance of things to see and do.

It would be impossible to experience it all of London in 4 days, so I encourage you to plan your time wisely prioritising what you want from your trip.  

In my opinion, the perfect London 4 day itinerary combines a balance of significant landmarks. But you’ll also have some time to wander off the beaten path and discover some of the more unusual things to do in London.

That’s why when people ask me how to long to stay in London, 4 days is the minimum. With four days in London, you can cover most of the city’s main attractions, including parks and museums.

With this in mind, I’m confident that if you follow my suggested London itinerary, you’ll feel like you’ve experienced the very best of what the city has to offer.

london itinerary 4 days
The London Eye makes its way onto every London Itinerary!

Where to Stay in London

There are several factors to consider when choosing where to stay in London. Budget usually being the most prevalent one.

It’s no secret that London is an expensive city. So while staying in central London is ideal for sightseeing, it’s not going to be your most budget-friendly option.

Thankfully, London’s public transport network is one of the best in the world. This means you can stay on the outskirts of London, and be able to reach the city centre quickly and easily.

With 4 days in London or more, I’d say this is a valid option. 

Best London Neighbourhoods

If you want to be at the very heart of all the action, you may wish to consider staying in Victoria or Covent Garden. You can expect to pay high-end prices for accommodation, but with many key attractions within walking distance of your hotel, this area is very convenient indeed.

For the night owls and fashionistasSoho is a chic central neighbourhood boasting a realm of nightlife, restaurants, and shopping. Also famed for being the epicentre of LGBTQ+ culture in London, it’s one of the most vibrant and happening districts in the city.

For those looking for somewhere a little offbeat and quirky, I would look into staying in Shoreditch (East London) or Camden (North London). Both areas are eccentric and unconventional in their own right, highlighting an amalgamation of street art, markets, nightlife and underground edge.  

If you’re travelling as a family or you’d prefer a more ‘local’ neighbourhood vibe, I suggest staying in Notting Hill or Kensington. Located in West London, both areas are peaceful and close to some of the city’s best attractions, while the city centre is easily accessible via public transport.

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​:

Booking.com

Camden London
No London itinerary is complete without a visit to quirky Camden

The Best of London in 4 Days

I go into quite a lot of detail in this comprehensive London Itinerary; so, for those who are short on time, here’s an overview of the best places to visit.

  • See some of Britain’s most famous landmarks such as Big Ben & St Pauls’s Cathedral.
  • Take in some of the best views of the city from the London Eye or the Shard.
  • Meander the various free museums in London, including the National History Museum and the National Gallery.
  • Shop ’til you drop on Oxford Street.
  • Immerse in London’s history at the Tower of London.
  • Escape the hustle and bustle at the picturesque Hyde Park.
  • Get lost in one of London’s plentiful markets.
  • Hunt for street art and other quirky pleasures in Shoreditch or Camden.
  • Enjoy some of the best Chinese food outside of China in China Town
  • Experience the fabulous atmosphere of a London West End show.
4 Day London Itinerary
The best London Guide - 4 Day London

Suggested 4 Days in London Itinerary

Okay, so this is an action-packed London itinerary. It means getting out early in the morning and arriving back late at night. The idea is that you experience as much of the city as you can during your stay.

Of course, this is only a guide. If this 4 days in London itinerary seems a bit much for you, you can cut out anything that you don’t mind missing. I’ll detail it all below, and then you can refine the list to suit your needs.

Here’s a quick run down of what to expect.

  • 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

Iconic London Landmarks & Sights…

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

Waterloo is the closest tube station to our first stop of the day. When you have arrived, exit the station following the signs for South Bank. Use this Transport for London journey planner to map out your journey. 

London Eye

London Eye
London Eye

Okay, time to get acquainted with the city you’ll be seeing alot of London in 4 days. There aren’t many better ways to do that than to view it all from above.

The iconic London Eye is a 135-metre Observation Wheel – one of the largest of its kind in the world. Located on the South Bank of the Thames, it’s one of the most recognisable structures amid the London cityscape.

It’s also quite pricy to ride the London Eye. Nonetheless, it’s still the most popular paid attraction in the UK, so it’s worth buying your ticket in advance so you can skip the queue.

Big Ben & The Houses of Parliament

London Big Ben & The Houses of Parliament
London Big Ben & The Houses of Parliament

Next, we will take a gentle stroll along the Thames and cross over at Westminster Bridge. The bridge itself is a landmark in its own right, providing an iconic view of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.   

The bridge will be bustling with tourists, locals and street performers as well. Be wary of scammers in these parts though, which often involve some kind of game. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

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.  

You will need to book in advance, but it is one of the few free things to do in London.

Westminster Abbey

London Westminster Abbey
Don’t miss Westminster Abbey during your 4 Days in London

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

Remarkably, it was Benedictine monks that founded Westminster Abbey in 960AD. It’s the final resting place of some of the country’s key historical figures, such as Charles D!ckens, Sir Isaac Newton, and Anne of Cleves.

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

It has also served as a coronation church, bearing witness to several royal weddings. And home to the coronation chair, whereby every King and Queen of England is crowned.

It’s much cheaper to book in advance, than on the day. If you’re interested in British history, architecture, or the Royal family, it’s worth the money.

St James Park

London St James Park
London St James Park

You’ll find various coffee shops and restaurants nearby the Abbey. But if it’s a nice day, I suggest picking something up to go and having a picnic in nearby St James Park.

One of 8 royal parks in London, this area 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 Boris a wave (or the finger) through the gate.

To fool your friends, you’ll find a replica of 10 Downing Street 800 metres away. 10 Adam Street is now a hotspot for tourists wanting a souvenir photo!

Buckingham Palace

London Buckingham Palace
The changing of the guard ceremony at Buckingham palace is a iconic London experience

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

While it is possible to go inside the Royal Palace, it is only open to the public between July and October. It’s also a rather expensive attraction.

In any case, the highlight for most visitors is to witness the changing of the guard. This is when the Queen’s guard hands over responsibility for protecting the palace to the new guard.

The guards in their traditional red tunics and bearskin hats are national icons. Many consider the ceremony a quintessential London experience.  It’s free to attend.

Tip – Please note, the days and times of the changing of the guard ceremony, differ from week to week. Always check the changing guard website on the date you plan to visit.

Piccadilly Circus & Trafalgar Square

london Piccadilly Circus & Trafalgar Square
London 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.

8 minutes 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

London China Town
China Town is a must for delicious chinese food!

It’s been a busy day, and I don’t know about you, but I’m parched. 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 can expect a great vibe regardless of the day, time, month, or season.  

When I worked in London, after-work drinks in Covent Garden were a religion. All I will say is that nights in Covent Garden have the potential to escalate very quickly.

You’ll also find several excellent restaurants in the area if you wanted to stick around for dinner. Otherwise, I recommend taking a stroll to China Town, where you will find the best Chinese food outside of China.

Day 2 of 4 Days in London

London History & Culture…

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

Tower Hill is the closest tube station to our first stop of the day. When you have arrived, exit the station following the signs for the Tower of London. Use this Transport for London journey planner to map out your journey.

Tower of London

The Tower of London
The Tower of London experience is a highlight of this 4 Day London Itinerary

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.

There’s so much compelling history wrapped up in the tower that it’s hard to know where to begin. Today the fortress is most famous for protecting the Crown Jewels.

There have also been many famous executions at the Towers. Guy Fawkes, Anne Boleyn, and Thomas Cromwell to name but a few. It’s this darker history which has earned the castle a spooky reputation.

The famous Yeoman Warder Tour is the perfect way to learn all about the towers grizzly past. Worth noting that areas of the tour that 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

The Shard London
The Shard boasts Londons highest Viewpoint

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.

Designed to resemble a shard of glass, the whopping 95-storey structure is home to some of the most high-end offices, restaurants and hotels in London. It’s also London’s highest viewpoint.

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

Borough Market London
Find the best street food at London’s Borough Market

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

I don’t know if it’s because it’s one of the oldest in London. Or whether its because of its industrial location beneath the railway arches. Either way, it is a total vibe!

The only downside to Borough Market is that it gets extremely busy. Not only that, the multitude of stalls selling an amalgamation of cuisines can be overwhelming.

With this in mind, I’ve listed some of my favourites 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

london Saint Dunstan in the East
London’s Saint Dunstan in the East is one of my favourite hidden gems

Our next stop is somewhat of a hidden gem in London. It’s always been one of my favourite places to escape the hustle and bustle.

What was once a Church of England Parish Church, now lays in ruins following an att@ck during WWII.

The 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.

Save Money with a London Pass

Are you going to be visiting all of the cities top attractions and taking full advantage of the public transport network? If yes, you should consider purchasing a London Pass in advance. The Pass allows free access to many attractions and unlocks tons of discounts around the city.

Reserve your Pass

St Pauls Cathedral

St Pauls Cathedral London
Don’t miss St Pauls Cathedral when spending 4 days in London

St Pauls Cathedral is another of London’s leading sightseeing attractions. A building steeped in history, it should be a priority over your 4 days in London.

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

London Underground

It’s no secret that London is a treasure trove of museums. And our final stop of the day is one of the most well-regarded of them all.

Like most London museums, I’ve visited the British Museum countless times. It’s honestly my favourite London activity.

Not only are most museums completely free to enter. But I always end up learning or discovering something new.  

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.

For the real historians out there, this is an unmissable addition to your London itinerary.

Soho

Soho London
Visit Soho for a night of fun and antics!

Wow, it’s been another busy day. 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 all of 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.  

Naturally, we’ve spent a lot of time in Soho, and I could be here all day recommending the best places to go. So, for now, I’ll keep it simple.

Start your evening with a craft beer or two at BrewDog Soho, followed by dinner at Bocca Di Lupo (Italian) or Mildreds (Vegetarian).

Then if you still have the energy, party the night away at one of Soho’s bars and nightclubs.

Day 3 of 4 Days in London

London Museums, Parks, and Shopping…

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

South Kensington is the closest tube station to our first stop of the day. When you have arrived, exit the station following the signs for the National History Museum. Use this Transport for London journey planner to map out your journey.

National History Museum

National History Museum London
The stunning Natural History Museum will forever be one of my favourite places in London !

Okay, day 3 in London and we will be spending 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!

If museums aren’t your thing, I’ve listed some alternative things to do further down the article. If you’re sticking with me, the first museum of the day is the National History Museum.

Often considered the best of its kind in the world, London’s National History Museum never fails to blow my mind.

I’ve been visiting ever since I was a little kid. I’ll always remember how small I’d feel walking amidst the giant remains of dinosaurs and other prehistoric species.  

One thing I continue to love about the National History Museum is how immersive and theatrical it is. Not to mention, it’s one of the most impressive buildings in the entire city. 

Science Museum

National Museum of Finland Helsinki

I’ll be honest; 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.

As the name suggests, this museum documents the accounts of groundbreaking scientific achievements throughout the years.

Young children especially, but adults too, are sure to enjoy the interactive displays, designed to both educate and entertain. 

Afternoon Tea at Harrods

Afternoon Tea London
Afternoon Tea at Harrods – it doesn’t get much more London than that!

Nearby the museums you’ll find several great restaurants. Or, if a 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.

In fact, Harrod’s motto is ‘Omnia Omnibus Ubique’, which is Latin for ‘all things for all people, everywhere’.

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

Hyde Park

4 days in London itinerary
Take a break from this busy London itinerary at 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 to London is like what Central Park is to New York. A sprawling open space of meadows, lakes, flower gardens, and beautiful old trees. If it’s a nice day, this is arguably a better option.

Hyde Park is that idyllic and pretty, it’s easy to forget that you’re in a city at all. I suggest taking some time to wander around.

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

Oxford Street & Covent Garden

Neal’s Yard London
Neal’s Yard London

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.

Upon leaving Hyde Park at Marble Arch, your eyes will bulge at the sight of hundreds of designer stores that line Oxford Street.

You don’t need to be flash 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.

Meander down Neal’s Yard – one of London’s most colourful and photogenic streets, pick up some London-themed gifts, and find somewhere that appeals for your pre-theatre show meal.

West End Show

West End Theatre London
See a west end show over your 4 days in London!

Listen up; you absolutely cannot spend 4 days in London without experiencing the magic of a West End Show.

I was lucky enough to have family who would take me to shows regularly as a kid, and my love for the theatre continues to thrive.

Some of my favourite shows to date include The Lion KingWickedMama MiaChicago, 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. Unless you’re from New York, where theatre productions are equally impressive, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Plus, there are often ways of getting cheap theatre tickets. My only advice, however, is to check the seats. Often, discounted tickets have heavily restricted views.

Day 4 of 4 Days in London

Offbeat London..

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

 

Okay, it’s the final day of our London Itinerary, and today is all about offbeat London. We will be exploring some of London’s quirkier neighbourhoods, hidden gems, and alternative cultures.

London’s landmarks may be world-famous and for a good reason. But it’s the unconventional side that gives my beloved city character.

But again, if you wanted to switch up the day with a day trip or another activity, you’ll find some options further down the article.

Waterloo is the closest tube station to our first stop of the day. When you have arrived, exit the station at Exit 2 towards Waterloo Road. Use this Transport for London journey planner to map out your journey.

Leake Street at Waterloo Vaults

Leake Street at Waterloo Vaults London
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.

During the evening, is when this venue really comes to life. At night the tunnels are bustling with theatre, comedy, music and other immersive events. But for now, we will be visiting the Leake Stret Tunnel.

Otherwise known as the ‘Banksy Tunnel’, it 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

Leadenhall Market London
Leadenhall Market London

Next, hop on the tube to Monument or Bank station, and make your way to Leadenhall Market.

Any Harry Potter fan needs to include this spot on their London itinerary. It is one of many Harry Potter locations in London and inspired Diagon Alley in the films.

Every time I walk through Leadenhall, I pray that a wand store will magically appear, and I’ll finally be the witch I’ve always wanted to be. But so far, no such luck.  

Harry Potter fan or not, you’re sure to be impressed by the ornate Victorian marketplace. It’s home to several designer stores, restaurants, and London pubs.  

*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

Shoreditch London
Shoreditch is one of the quirkier neighbourhoods you’ll visit on this London itinerary.

Our next stop is just a short 15-minute walk away. Look out for the infamous Gherkin skyscraper along the way. 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.

While meandering around Shoreditch, don’t miss Box Park – a unique place to hang out and grab food. Also stop by Beigel Bake for the best bagel outside of New York.

If you like Indian food, you’ll find some of London’s best curry houses on Brick Lane. Finally, check out a hip rooftop bar such as The Curtain or Queen of Hoxton

Camden

Camden London

If you can find the strength to tear yourself away from vibey Shoreditch, I suggest hopping on the Northern Line and making your way to Camden Town.

As much as I love Shoreditch, if I had to choose my favourite place in London, it would have to be Camden. The vibe feels somewhat less pretentious to me and I’ve had some of the best times of my life there.

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.  

Ideally, however, you’ll spend more than just the evening in Camden. That way, you can meander the eclectic Camden market, grab some street food at West Yard food hall, and enjoy a pint at one of Camden’s esteemed pubs. 

4 Day London Itinerary Alternatives

While I believe my London Itinerary to be the best way to spend your time, I’m well aware that our interests may vary. With this in mind, here are some of the other top things to do in and around London.

Up at the O2

London o2 arena

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 Millenium; however, it proved to be such a hit that it’s now a permanent addition to the city skyline. 

While most visit the O2 to eat, drink, dance and sing along to their favourite artists, Up At The O2 allows you to view the city in a whole new way.

Accompanied by a guide, you’ll embark on an exhilarating 90-minute climb onto the 52-metre-high rooftop.

Notting Hill

Notting Hill London
Notting Hill’s colourful houses are Instagram famous!

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 hunting for wears at one of London’s oldest markets, before finding a beautiful spot for brunch.  

By all means, do wander around the neighbourhood and admire the pastel-coloured houses. They are gorgeous and well worth a photo or 2. However, I must ask that you remain respectful of people’s privacy.

Try to avoid standing on the steps or sitting on walls outside the property, or you could experience the wrath of a true Londoner. Check out this list of the most Instagrammable spots in Notting Hill.

Thames River Cruise

London Thames River Cruise
London 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. Some include 1-hour of sightseeing, others you can hop on & hop off. There are even romantic dinner or afternoon tea cruises. 

Get your Guide has a wide selection of tours to choose from at a competitive rate, so it’s worth checking them out before your trip.

Take a Day Trip

Things to do Near Durdle Door

Any longer than 4 Days in London, and I would 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. Located just 1.5 hours by car or 1-hour by train from London it’s the ideal day trip. If you have more time, I recomend checking out Durdle Door on the Jurassic Coast.

Or if you consider yourself history buff, you won’t want to miss out on 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.

London Itinerary Essential Info

With London being such a vibrant and exciting city, you’ll find it difficult not to have an incredible time. However, the tips and tricks below can help you make the very best of your trip.

4 Day London Itinerary

Getting Around in London

You will be covering several neighbourhoods on this London itinerary, so you’ll need to know how to get around.

Thankfully, London’s public transport network is one of the best in the world. OK, it could do with some upgrades here and there (erm, air conditioning on the Central Line), 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 spends once it reaches a certain amount, which is great if you’re moving around a lot through 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.

Oxford Street London
Oxford Street London at Christmas

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, however, 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 Christmas lights in the city are stunning, and there are a few Christmas markets. It’s also the season for Winter Wonderland which is not to be missed if you find yourself in the city during this time.

London Sunset Tower Bridge
London Sunset Tower Bridge

Budget for 4 Days in London

It’s no secret that London is an expensive city. I cringe when I think about all the money I’ve spent living there over the years, but c’est la vie.  

If you plan to see London the budget way, you could comfortably live on £60/$75 a day. But that means eating cheap, staying at hostels, and being selective about the attractions you spend your cash on.

Thankfully, there are plenty of free things to do in London if you’re travelling on a tight budget.

On the other hand, if you insist on paying for all the main attractions, eating at trendy restaurants, and staying in fancy hotels, you can expect to double or even triple that budget.

If you hope to visit most of the prime attractions in London, it pays to invest in a London Pass. The Pass allows free access to many attractions and unlocks tons of discounts around the city.

Is London Safe to Visit?

As somebody who has lived in London for most of my life, I would confidently class London as a safe place to visit. That said, I’ve grown up there. I know the do’s and don’t, and I have the privilege of being a local.

The actual answer is far more complex, and I strongly recommend you educate yourself on how to stay safe in London before you travel.

Like many places, theft and pickpocketing pose the most significant risk to tourists. There’s also a trend of gangs on motorbikes who snatch bags, phones, or whatever they can get their hands on as they drive past.

We suggest keeping your belongings close to you at all times and using a small padlock or compartmental bag to keep your valuables safe. 

Common scams pose another risk to tourists, and we advise being vigilant at all times. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your gut and walk away from the situation.

Check out this article for examples of common scams in London.  And don’t forget travel insurance!

Get the best deals on travel insurance!

If you become sick or injured, those medical bills can really add up. Or perhaps you have your bag stolen, or a flight cancelled.  Although these events are unlikely, they do happen, and having travel insurance gives you that extra piece of mind that you are protected. 5% Discount for our readers using the button below! (discount applicable for non-American citizens).

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London Instagram Spots

London City Tours

Some might say that taking a guided tour is the best way to experience London.

We always use Get Your Guide when we book tours. They have an endless selection of tours in locations worldwide, including London. Check them out!

Save Time and Book a Tour

For a more local experience, we recommend checking out the guided tours on Get Your Guide:

Enjoy Your 4 Days in London!

Well, that concludes our recommendations for spending four days in London. What are you looking forward to seeing most? Is there anything else that you think deserves to be on this list?

Let us know! We love hearing from you. You can reach out to us in the comment section below.

Stay adventurous and happy travels.

Planning a trip to England? Check out our UK series to help with inspiration.

Charlotte & Natalie
If you enjoyed our free guide, you could support us by buying us a coffee! Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram, where we share more travel advice and inspiration. Charlotte & Natalie x

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5 Responses

  1. What a fantastic guide to London! You covered so much in four days. I especially liked your suggestions for the alternative and quirky things to do in London. You have a great taste for life!

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Charlotte & Natalie

Hi There!

We’re Charlotte & Natalie, a British lesbian couple with a passion for travel and adventure.
Here you will find everything from LGBTQ+ travel & lifestyle advice, to comprehensive guides and itineraries designed to make your travel planning easier.
We want to inspire you to live the life of your dreams.

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