Landmarked in history, soaked in culture, and oozing modernity, London is that dream destination for every traveler. Be it the Landmark Views of the Tower of London or the vibrant streets of Covent Garden, London supplies a rich and varied experience for all sorts of visitors. A 7-day experience here should cover much of what’s best in London, making sure you don’t really leave any stone unturned.
London Itinerary
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Day 1: Arrival and Old London
Welcome to London! Upon getting settled into your accommodation, start your journey by visiting Westminster Abbey, one of the most famous religious buildings in the United Kingdom. This medieval Gothic building is the usual place of coronation and burial for the British monarchs.
Next, pay a visit to the neighboring Houses of Parliament and Big Ben; it is only enjoyable when you view this clock tower. Walk along the beautiful vistas of the city lining the Thames River, crossing to experiment with the London Eye for a ride that will let you have a partial perspective of the city from above.
The last stop of the day should be Covent Garden for an evening experience of vibrancy, street entertainment, and a choice of restaurants. Enjoy your dinner in one of the locals before retiring for the night.
Day 2: The Royal Experience
Begin the day on a nurturing note by visiting Buckingham Palace. It is by far the most royal abode in London, housing the British monarchy. Plan your entry to witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony that has been taking place here from the past centuries.
Then take a walk in St. James’s park, one of the oldest and most picturesque parks in the city. Go next to the Tower of London, a very ancient castle where the Crown Jewels are kept. The visit is on a guided tour; you can learn about the amazing history of the tower, a building that has served through the years as a royal palace, prison, and treasury.
Visit Tower Bridge in the afternoon, and walk its walkways, enjoying city views. Do not forget to visit the Tower Bridge Exhibition, where the history of the bridge is detailed.
Complete your experience at the Shard, which is London’s tallest building. Dine out from one of its fancy restaurants, all the while getting the feel of the view of the city at night.
Day 3: Museums and Galleries
Some of the best museums and galleries in the world are located in London. Begin your day at the British Museum, with its massive collection of art and artifacts from across the world. This place will hold you captive with exhibits like the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles.
Next, visit the National Gallery at Trafalgar Square. It has over 2,300 paintings from the mid-13th century up to 1900. You will be able to enjoy Van Gogh, da Vinci, and Turner.
Have a look around the Victoria and Albert Museum in the afternoon. It is a treasure trove of decorative arts and design. Alternatively, just walk around the Natural History Museum, which is surprisingly interesting if you are with kids.
Conclude your day with a nice walk in Hyde Park. If you have the time, you can also go to the Serpentine Galleries and enjoy contemporary art.
Day 4: South Bank and Greenwich
PLAN SWOMEN’S QUATTROLOGY Spend your fourth day in the South Bank of London starting with the Tate Modern, one of the premier contemporary art museums in the world. Then walk along the Thames to the Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. If you are a fan of the Bard try to catch a play here.
Continue to Borough Market, one of the oldest and largest food markets in London. Sample foods from across the country and revel in the energetic ambiance.
In the afternoon, take a boat down the Thames to Greenwich. The Royal Observatory is the residence of the Prime Meridian Line. A 19th-century tea clipper called the Cutty Sark, in addition to the National Maritime Museum and the Queen’s House, also lies here.
End the day with a walk in Greenwich Park for beautiful scenes of the city skyline.
Day 5: Discover London’s Diverse Neighborhoods
Join us on day 5 of your trip for a local experience in London. Commence your day at Notting Hill, known for its bohemian-style houses with colored pastels, antique shops, and Portobello Road Market. Spend the morning among the variety of shops belonging to the market.
The following stop will be a famous, lively, and diverse part of London borough: Camden Town. In this alternative culture and bustling market, you can find everything from vintage clothing and handmade crafts to street food of literally all styles and tastes.
In the afternoon, take the opportunity to see the bohemian neighborhood of the city of London: Soho. Wander along Carnaby Street and its surroundings, not only to shop but also to experience its nightlife. Before night falls, you can also see a show in a different theater that is part of the district known as the West End.
Day 6: Day of Excursions
Within an easy day’s travelling distance from London there are many places you will find of interest. Perhaps you might wish to visit Windsor Castle, reputed to be the world’s oldest and largest occupied castle—a favourite home of Queen Elizabeth MK. The State Apartments and St. George’s Chapel are included in the visit to Windsor Town.
Or else go to Oxford, the very place of the world-famous University of Oxford. Walk around the compulsive historical colleges, libraries, and gardens inspirational to scholars from time immemorial.
For those looking to be more relative to stay in, the beautiful grounds of Kew Gardens are a UNESCO World Heritage site and home of one of the most diverse gardens in the world. The fantastic glasshouses and long systematic gardens provide welcome tranquility from the city.
Day 7: Shopping and Farewell
Retail therapy is your savior on the last day of your trip. Begin with Harrods in Knightsbridge. Even if you don’t buy anything, the interiors of this world-class store are worth taking in alone.
And then walk down Oxford Street, Europe’s busiest shopping street, pack it full of high-street shops, and department stores. And for the posh end of retail therapy, stroll over to Regent Street and Bond Street, with designer boutiques and flagship stores.
For other unique souvenirs, Covent Garden or the Camden Market offer handmade crafts and some inimitable finds in the middle of their vintage offerings.
Conclude your vacation with your favorite pastime—a leisurely afternoon tea in one of London’s fabled traditional tea-rooms, like The Ritz or Fortnum & Mason.
Summary
No visit to London is ever without a blend of history and culture with modern places for enjoyment that cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether your interests lie in the grandeur of Buckingham Palace, the history behind the Tower of London, the artistic treasures of the city at its museums, or the lively neighborhoods like Notting Hill and Camden, London is a city of interest for just about everyone.
There is much offered through the air on a stay in London, so a seven-day itinerary would behoove one to believe that all which is encompassed here is sure to make your trip memorable and worthwhile. Whether you are coming for the first time or returning to explore further, the enchantment and diversity of London can only leave an indelible impression on you. I hope you have a fabulous time in one of the world’s great cities!