London, United Kingdom-6-day-itinerary

London Calling: A 6-Day Itinerary

Where To Stay: For a central location with great transport links, consider staying in South Kensington. It offers a mix of boutique hotels and larger chains.

Transportation: London’s underground (the “Tube”) is the most efficient way to get around. Purchase an Oyster card or use contactless payment for seamless travel.

Day 1: Royal Welcome & Theatrical Delights

  • Morning: Start with a visit to Buckingham Palace, witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony (check timings online). Afterwards, explore St James’s Park, a beautiful green oasis.
  • Afternoon: Immerse yourself in history at the Tower of London, marvel at the Crown Jewels and learn about its fascinating past.
  • Evening: Catch a world-class performance in the West End theatre district.

Where to Eat:

  • Lunch: The Ivy Chelsea Garden (elegant) or Hawksmoor Seven Dials (steakhouse).
  • Dinner: Pre-theatre dinner at Joe Allen (American classics) or Dishoom Covent Garden (Indian street food).

Things to Know:

  • Book theatre tickets in advance, especially for popular shows.

Day 2: Museums & Markets

  • Morning: Explore the British Museum, home to treasures from around the world. Focus on specific collections based on your interests.
  • Afternoon: Wander through Covent Garden Market, enjoy street performers, browse quirky shops and grab a bite to eat.
  • Evening: Experience London’s vibrant nightlife in Soho, with its diverse pubs, clubs and restaurants.

Where to Eat:

  • Lunch: Borough Market (street food heaven) or Neal’s Yard Dairy (cheese lovers paradise).
  • Dinner: Rules Restaurant (traditional British) or The Palomar (Middle Eastern cuisine).

Day 3: Art & Architecture

  • Morning: Immerse yourself in art at the National Gallery, featuring masterpieces by Van Gogh, Monet and Rembrandt.
  • Afternoon: Take a stroll along the South Bank, enjoy views of the Thames, visit Tate Modern (contemporary art) or Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional pub dinner and a pint of ale in a cozy local.

Where to Eat:

  • Lunch: The Tate Modern restaurant (modern British cuisine) or Wagamama South Bank (Asian-inspired noodles).
  • Dinner: The George Inn (historic pub) or Hawksmoor Seven Dials (steakhouse).

Day 4: Day Trip Beyond the City

  • Full Day: Take a train to Windsor Castle, the Queen’s official residence. Explore its lavish State Apartments and St. George’s Chapel.

Where to Eat:

  • The Duchess of Cambridge pub near Windsor Castle (traditional British fare).

Day 5: Shopping & History

  • Morning: Shop ’til you drop on Oxford Street, home to department stores like Selfridges and John Lewis.
  • Afternoon: Step back in time at the Churchill War Rooms, an underground bunker used during World War II.
  • Evening: Indulge in a Michelin-starred dining experience for a special occasion.

Where to Eat:

  • Lunch: Afternoon tea at The Wolseley (elegant) or Dishoom Carnaby Street (Indian street food).
  • Dinner: Dinner by Heston Blumenthal (innovative British cuisine) or The Ledbury (modern European).

Day 6: Parks & Farewell

  • Morning: Enjoy a leisurely walk through Hyde Park, rent a boat on the Serpentine lake or visit Kensington Palace Gardens.
  • Afternoon: Reflect on your London adventures with a final stroll along the Thames Path.

Where to Eat:

  • The Ivy Kensington Brasserie (elegant) or The Churchill Arms (traditional pub).

Tips:

  • Pack comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
  • Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it at fountains throughout the city.
  • Purchase a London Pass if you plan on visiting multiple attractions.

Enjoy your unforgettable journey through London!