This plan balances London’s classic landmarks, historic streets and lively neighbourhoods, with each day grouped to keep journeys manageable. Costs are rough per person in pounds sterling; transport and meals can vary.
Budget
About £140–£220 per person for listed paid sights and activities, excluding accommodation, most meals and local transport.
Best time to visit
April to June or September to early October for generally pleasant walking weather and long sightseeing days.
Westminster and the South Bank
Take in the capital’s landmark sights, then cross the river for a relaxed riverside evening.
Morning
See Westminster’s great landmarks
Walk around Parliament Square to see and the Houses of Parliament from outside. Allow about 10 minutes on foot between the square and ; entry to the Abbey is optional.
About £0 outside; about £30 entryAfternoon
Visit the
From , it’s about a 10-minute walk to this underground museum exploring Britain’s wartime history. Book ahead, especially for weekends.
About about £33Evening
Stroll the South Bank
Walk about 15 minutes from the War Rooms to the , then enjoy the riverside promenade and choose a nearby spot for dinner. The views are lovely around sunset.
Free
Tower of London and Borough
Explore the City’s medieval history before following the river west to for dinner.
Morning
Explore the
Give yourself a few hours for the fortress, Crown Jewels and historic towers. Arrive early to make the most of your visit.
About about £35Afternoon
Walk across
It’s about a 10-minute walk from the Tower entrance to . Cross on foot for classic river views, or buy a ticket to see the high-level walkways.
FreeEvening
Eat your way around
From , allow about 20 minutes to walk along the river to the market. Browse the food stalls for dinner; opening hours vary, so check before you go.
About £10–£20
Bloomsbury and Covent Garden
Pair a world-class museum with a walk through the West End’s handsome streets and lively piazza.
Morning
Discover the British Museum
Start with highlights such as the Rosetta Stone and the museum’s Egyptian galleries. General admission is free, but some special exhibitions are ticketed.
FreeAfternoon
Wander around
From the museum, it’s about a 20-minute walk to Piazza. Browse the covered market and watch for street performers.
FreeEvening
Catch a West End show
Most West End theatres are about a 5–15-minute walk from . Book ahead for popular productions, or check same-day ticket options for a more flexible evening.
About about £25–£100
Good to know
Getting around
Use contactless payment or an Oyster card on the Tube and buses; walking is often quickest between stops in central London.
Booking
Reserve timed entry for the , and popular West End shows. Check opening hours before setting out.
Food
is a great lunch or early dinner stop, but check its trading days and hours before planning around it.