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Planning your first trip to London and wondering how to spend 6 days? This 6 day London itinerary covers the city’s most iconic landmarks, hidden gems, historic neighborhoods, and unforgettable day trips. After multiple trips to London, I’ve found that six days is the perfect amount of time for first-time visitors.
You’ll have enough time to see iconic attractions like Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London while also exploring local favorites such as Marylebone, Borough Market, and Notting Hill. This itinerary balances sightseeing with slower afternoons so you don’t feel exhausted by the end of your trip.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly where to stay, what to book in advance, how much to budget, and how to spend each day.
Overview: How to Spend 6 Days in London
- Day 1: Kensington, Westminster
- Day 2: The Tower of London, Borough Market, & Historic London
- Day 3: London Neighborhoods, Tea, and a Show
- Day 4: Best Day Trips from London (Windsor Castle or Warner Bros. Studio Tour)
- Day 5: Museums and South Kensington
- Day 6: Notting Hill
Table of Contents
Map of This 6 Day London Itinerary
Before diving into the daily itinerary, here’s a map showing all of the major attractions, neighborhoods, restaurants, and day trips included in this 6 days in London guide.
Activities to Book Before Your London Trip
London can be busy, so it’s best to book the activities you definitely want to do in advance!
Activities I recommend booking in advance:
- Reservation at Sketch
- Tickets to the Harry Potter Studio Tour
- Tower of London tickets
- Windsor castle tickets
- Tickets or a show in the West End
- Westminster Abbey tickets
- Tickets to Kensington Palace
How Much Does 6 Days in London Cost?
London has a reputation for being expensive, but the total cost of your trip depends heavily on where you stay, how often you dine out, and which attractions you visit. For most travelers, I recommend budgeting between £1,200 and £2,500 per person for 6 days in London, excluding flights.
For the budget traveler: A budget trip to London is possible if you’re staying in hostels or budget hotels, using public transportation, and choosing mostly free attractions.
Estimated Attraction Costs
Some of the most popular attractions in this itinerary and their cost:
- Tower of London: approximately £35
- Westminster Abbey: approximately £30
- Kensington Palace: approximately £25
- Windsor Castle: approximately £35
- Harry Potter Studio Tour: approximately £55+
- West End show: £30–£150+
- Afternoon tea at Sketch: £85+
Money-Saving Tips for London
- Use an Oyster Card or contactless payment for public transportation.
- Book major attractions in advance.
- Take advantage of London’s excellent free museums.
- Stay in neighborhoods like Kensington, South Kensington, or Paddington rather than directly in Westminster.
- Fill in sightseeing days with free attractions such as Hyde Park, Notting Hill, Covent Garden, and Borough Market (all included in this 6 day London itinerary!)
Where to Stay in London
London is a big city with a lot of options on where to stay. If this is your first time visiting London, then I recommend staying in Kensington, specifically in South Kensington. This neighborhood is a quieter and rather elegant hotel to stay in that’s near tube stations that can take you wherever this itinerary takes you.
If you want more options on where to stay, read my full guide to the best neighborhoods in London for first-time visitors.
Hotel recommendations for your first visit to London:
- Budget: Princes Square Hotel – A highly rated hotel that’s budget-friendly! (Note this is in the Notting Hill Neighborhood)
- Mid-range: Club Quarters – I actually splurged on staying here solo, but the location was everything. This area has proof of old London: with the old narrow streets designed wide enough for buggies. Located right across Leadenhall market and pockets of proof that Old London existed. The market might remind you of Harry Potter and I recommend walking through it. (City of London Neighborhood)
- Solo: The Villa Kensington – A single room with a twin bed here is $83 a night, which is very well priced for this area.
- Splurge: he Adria – Stunning is an understatement for this hotel. Perfectly situated between two tube stations and Harrods is less than 20 minutes away. This would be a dream London splurge stay in my favorite part of London.
- Best overall: The Other House – Truthfully, this is one of the better hotels I’ve stayed in for my travels in Europe. Kitty corner from a Gail’s bakery, walking distance to the Parent Trap house, and the bar in the hotel? There were so many places accessible to this hotel that made the stay well worth it.
Day 1: Exploring Kensington, Westminster
When you arrive in London, check into the The Other House South Kensington hotel in Kensington. Kensington is one of London’s most elegant neighborhoods, known for its Victorian architecture, garden squares, royal history, and world-class museums. I love staying here because it feels more residential and relaxed than central London while still being well-connected to the city’s top attractions. If you’re deciding where to stay, check out my full guide on the best neighborhoods in London.
Pro tip: Wear comfortable shoes today – it’s a busy day full of walking!
Highlights of day 1:
- Kensington Palace
- Kensington Gardens
- Hyde Park
- Buckingham Palace
- Westminster Abbey
- Big Ben
- London Eye at sunset
First Half of the Day in Kensington
Begin the day in Kensington, one of London’s prettiest neighborhoods. Stroll past pastel townhouses before heading into Kensington Gardens, where tree-lined paths lead you straight to Kensington Palace. Even if you don’t go inside, walking the grounds feels quietly royal.
If you do want to visit Kensington Palace, get your tickets in advance and plan for 1-2 hours inside. Next, let’s walk through Hyde Park. Hyde Park is one of the larger parks in London at 350 acres.
Don’t miss these highlights of Hyde Park:
- The Peter Pan Statue
- Rose Garden
- Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain
Afternoon and Evening in Westminster
After five visits to London, Westminster remains the one neighborhood I revisit on every trip because of its concentration of iconic landmarks. There’s something about being in the center of so much history in the city. The view of Westminster Abbey paired with Big Ben is a well-known view of London that’s surreal to see in person.
Highlights of Westminster:
- Big Ben
- Westminster Abbey – you can go inside (I recommend tickets in advance)
- Houses of Parliament
- The London Eye – the large Ferris Wheel.
Next, head to Westminster Bridge for classic skyline views, then walk along the Thames River. It’s one of the best ways to experience the city without rushing. If you’re hoping to snap an iconic photo of this area, walk to this pin and you won’t be disappointed.
If you aren’t afraid of heights, going on the London Eye (the large Ferris Wheel) at sunset is a beautiful way to see the city from above. Book tickets in advance because it’s always likely to sell out!
Finish your night with dinner at The Ivy Victoria.
Day 2: The Tower of London, Borough Market, & Historic London
This day blends history with some of London’s best markets, history, and finishing with a fun night out in Shoreditch.
Highlights:
- Breakfast at Leadenhall Market
- St Dunstan in the East Church Garden
- Tower of London
- Tower Bridge
- Borough Market
- Gordon’s Wine Bar
- Night out in Shoreditch
Start your day with breakfast at Leadenhall Market. If you’ve seen Harry Potter, Leadenhall Market may look familiar! It’s a market that dates back to Roman times. It was rebuilt as the Victorian structure seen today in the 19th century. Rosslyn Coffee at Leadenhall Market is a great option for breakfast and coffee.
Tower of London and Tower Bridge
Head towards the Tower of London, where you’re headed to next. I suggest walking past St Dunstan in the East Church Garden on your way there. If only this church could talk – it has quite the history. The church was originally built in the 12th century, rebuilt after the Great Fire of London, and later damaged during the Blitz in World War II. Instead of rebuilding another time, the ruins were turned into a public garden. There are occasional open-air church services as well.
Start early as possible at the Tower of London to beat the crowds. This UNESCO World Heritage site is packed with stories from royal drama to the famous Crown Jewels, which are somehow even shinier in person. My favorite part of visiting the Tower of London was the humorous guided tours led by the “Beefeaters.” Beefeaters are the ceremonial guardians. Get your Tower of London tickets in advance to guarantee entry!
Afterward, walk across Tower Bridge for one of the most iconic views in the city. A lot of people confuse the Tower Bridge as the London Bridge, but you’ll see the true London Bridge later on.
Now it’s time to indulge in the Borough Market. The Borough Market is one of London’s oldest food markets, dating as far back as the 12th century. Today, you’ll find over 100 stalls. If you want to know the best places, go on a Borough Market Food Tour.
If you’re up for it, a short walk from Borough Market will lead you to Shakespeare’s Globe. Although it’s not the original Globe, it’s worth seeing because it’s a near perfect reconstruction and shows are performed here. If you don’t want to see a show, there’s an inexpensive, one hour tour instead. The original location of the theatre is nearby and you can see a plaque.
From Shakespeare’s Globe or Borough Market, walk across the true London Bridge. Before crossing London Bridge, take a moment to appreciate how surprisingly ordinary it looks. Unlike the famous Tower Bridge, London Bridge is relatively simple, which is why so many visitors mistakenly think Tower Bridge is actually London Bridge.
You’ve had a long day in London, but it’s not over yet! It’s time to have a fun night out in one of the liveliest cities in the world. Shoreditch is a vibrant, creative hub in London’s East End and has incredible street food for an easy dinner.
Stops on your night out:
- The Old Blue Last
- Queen of Hoxton
- Barrio
Day 3: London Boroughs, Afternoon Tea, and a West End Show
Today is a slower day after two jam-packed days in London. You’ll be exploring 3 different boroughs, or neighborhoods, along with a classic afternoon tea and catching a show in the West End.
Highlights of day 3:
- Breakfast in Marylebone
- Shopping in Marylebone
- Marylebone High Street
- Mercato Mayfair
- Tea in Mayfair
- West End Show
- London’s Oldest Wine Bar
Start Your Morning in Marylebone
Head over to Marylebone. Marylebone is a chic residential area with a village feel. Begin the day with breakfast at one of Marylebone’s many cafés before exploring one of my favorite neighborhoods in London. I like Boxcar Marylebone or The Marylebone Corner.
Your first stop for shopping should be Anna + Nina. This charming homewares shop is filled with colorful and quirky treasures that make excellent souvenirs or gifts. I still regret not buying the coffee mug I spotted during my visit!
Just around the corner is Daunt Books, one of London’s most beautiful bookstores. While Daunt Books has several locations, the Marylebone branch is by far the most impressive. The Edwardian interior, oak galleries, and skylights make it worth visiting even if you’re not planning to buy a book.
Spend the rest of the morning wandering Marylebone High Street, popping into boutiques, cafés, and specialty shops along the way.
Afternoon in Mayfair
From Marylebone, walk on down to Mayfair. Mayfair is an upscale district with world-famous shops, Georgian townhouses, and charm.
You can’t go to Mayfair without eating lunch at Mercato Mayfair, one of London’s most unique food halls. Located inside a beautifully restored church, it features a variety of food vendors, bars, and even a vaulted wine cellar. It’s an excellent option if everyone in your group wants something different. I still think about the tacos I ordered from Club Mexicana!
This is also the perfect afternoon to enjoy a reservation at Sketch. Afternoon tea at Sketch is one of the most memorable dining experiences in London thanks to its whimsical interiors and creative menu. There are plenty of places to enjoy afternoon tea throughout the city, but Sketch remains my personal favorite.
There are plenty of places to have tea, like afternoon tea on a bus or tea cruise on the River Thames. My personal favorite is Sketch (especially in the colder London months) because of the charm it brings. However, I am planning on the Peter Pan Afternoon Tea at the Shard in the fall and can’t wait!
After tea, spend some time exploring Mayfair. Stroll through Berkeley Square, admire the grand Georgian architecture, and browse the luxury storefronts that line Bond Street. Cocktails at The Churchill Bar is a great way to kick off the evening before heading to Covent Garden.
Evening in Covent Garden
Covent Garden is a place I visit every time I go to London. It’s colorful, charming, and I’m always finding somewhere new to go.
- Neal’s Yard – a must!
- Mr Fogg’s Tavern
- Din Tai Fung
- Dinner at Rules, London’s oldest restaurant – established in 1798!
Catching a show in the West End
The West End in London is comparable to Broadway in New York City. It is full of talent and energy. Not only are the shows incredible, but even the theaters have their own beauty and story.
West End Shows I’d recommend:
- The Lion King tickets at Lyceum Theatre
- Mamma Mia tickets – I loved the movie but the play is even better!
- Wicked tickets at the Apollo Victoria Theatre
Tips on catching a show in the West End:
- Sometimes the tickets can be cheaper the closer to the show date but you run the risk of not getting tickets
- Within the West End there’s an area called Covent Garden. Covent Garden is one of my favorite places to grab drinks.
After the show, make one final stop to Gordon’s Wine Bar. Gordon’s Wine Bar is the oldest wine bar in London. Stepping inside is like stepping into Old London where it feels as though we still travel by horse and carriage.
Day 4: Best Day Trips From London
One of the biggest advantages of spending six days in London is having enough time to take a day trip beyond the city. Depending on your interests, today can be spent either exploring Windsor Castle or stepping into the wizarding world at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour.
No matter which option you choose, start your day with breakfast at Gail’s Bakery! I know they’re a chain in London, but the consistency and quality of each location is great. Once you’re fueled with baked goods and coffee, it’s time to head to your day trip!
Option 1: Windsor Castle
What to know about visiting Windsor from London:
- Windsor is located west of London and can be reached by train in one hour
- Round trip tickets to Windsor from London can be bought for as little as $10 USD
- When booking your train tickets on Trainline, you can book round trip tickets with an open return ticket (More details on this below)
- Train tickets can be booked as late as the day before.
- However, if you plan on visiting Windsor Castle, book your tickets in advance.
- We had lunch at The Corner Ale & Cider House and it was delicious.
What’s an Open return ticket?
An open return ticket means you don’t have a scheduled return time and can be more flexible when you leave. This means if your tour, dinner, or excursion runs longer than planned, you can always catch a later train! Open return tickets can relieve any feelings of rushing.
Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle is the oldest inhabited castle in the world. Touring the castle feels intimate and grand all at once, especially compared to London’s busier palaces. We bought tickets that allowed us to go at our own pace which we enjoyed. We also had audio guides making the experience worthwhile.
However, we overheard some guided tours and it had me wishing we had a guided tour as well. The guides were pointing out hidden entrances within the walls, stories in different rooms, and little details I wouldn’t notice
Different Windsor tickets:
- Windsor Castle admission only – this is the tickets I purchased
- Windsor Castle with transportation from London included
- Full day trip to Windsor Castle AND Stonehenge – this is one of the best-value day trips from London.
Option 2: Harry Potter Studio Tour
If you’re a Harry Potter fan, this is one of the most popular day trips from London.
The Warner Bros. Studio Tour takes visitors behind the scenes of the films, allowing you to walk through the Great Hall, explore Diagon Alley, see original costumes and props, and learn how the movies were created.
I’ve visited twice and still discovered new details each time.
Plan for at least half a day here, especially if transportation from London is included with your ticket. If you’d like a detailed breakdown of the experience, check out my complete Harry Potter Studio Tour guide.
Option 3: Other Day Trips From London
If neither of the options above interest you, consider:
- Stonehenge & Bath day trip combo with entry ticket
- Bath – can take a train straight to Bath (approximately 1.5 hours)
- Oxford – can also take a train straight to Oxford (this will be my next day trip!)
- Cambridge Small Group Tour
- Seven Sisters Cliffs and Brighton Full-Day Tour
Day 5: Museums and South Kensington
After several busy sightseeing days, today is a slower-paced day focused on museums, beautiful architecture, and one of London’s most elegant neighborhoods. The best part? Many of London’s world-class museums are completely free.
Highlights:
- Natural History Museum
- Victoria & Albert Museum
- Science Museum
- Harrods
- Royal Albert Hall
- South Kensington
Morning at the Natural History Museum
Start your day at the Natural History Museum, one of the most impressive buildings in London. Even before stepping inside, the grand Romanesque architecture is worth admiring.
The museum is famous for its dinosaur exhibits, giant blue whale skeleton, and fascinating earth science galleries. Since admission is free, it’s an easy addition to any London itinerary.
Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours here and make sure you get an audio guide. If museums aren’t usually your thing, don’t worry. This museum is incredibly interactive and engaging.
Explore the Victoria & Albert Museum
Just a few minutes away is the Victoria & Albert Museum, commonly known as the V&A.
This museum focuses on art, fashion, design, and decorative arts from around the world. Even if you don’t spend hours exploring, it’s worth visiting to see the stunning courtyard and architecture. It may be worth taking a guided tour here to appreciate all that the museum has on display.
The fashion exhibits are often a highlight, showcasing everything from royal gowns to contemporary designers.
Lunch in South Kensington
After a morning of museum hopping, grab lunch in South Kensington.
One of my favorite casual options is Honest Burgers. For something more upscale, Aubaine South Kensington is a lovely choice with outdoor seating during warmer months.
Spend some time strolling through the neighborhood after lunch. South Kensington feels noticeably different from busier parts of London, with elegant white townhouses, garden squares, and a quieter atmosphere. If you’re a Parent Trap fan, you may even see Elizabeth James’ house in the movie while you’re here.
Afternoon at Harrods
Next, walk over to Harrods, London’s most famous department store.
Even if shopping isn’t on your agenda, Harrods is worth visiting simply for the experience. The food halls alone feel like an attraction, with beautifully displayed pastries, chocolates, and international specialties.
I always find myself wandering through the food hall much longer than intended.
Visit Royal Albert Hall
A short walk away is Royal Albert Hall, one of London’s most iconic performance venues.
If there’s a concert or event during your trip, attending a performance here can be an unforgettable experience. If not, consider taking a guided tour to learn about the building’s fascinating history and famous performers.
Evening in South Kensington
Finish your day with dinner back in South Kensington.
For a classic London experience, The Builder’s Arms is a cozy pub with excellent food. If you’re looking for something more refined, visit Ceru for Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
After dinner, enjoy a final evening walk through the neighborhood before heading back to your hotel. Tomorrow you’ll explore one of London’s most charming areas: Notting Hill.
Day 6: Notting Hill
Today is all about my favorite neighborhood in London and one of the highlights of this London itinerary for first-time visitors: Notting Hill. If there is one neighborhood that feels exactly like the London you’ve imagined, it’s Notting Hill. Colorful Victorian homes line quiet streets while independent bookstores, cafés, and boutiques give the area a distinctly local feel.
It’s also one of my favorite areas in London because it feels less like a major capital city and more like a collection of small village streets.
Highlights of Notting Hill:
- Farm Girl Café
- Portobello Road
- Notting Hill Bookshop – a must if you love the movie!
- The Churchill Arms pub
Morning Brunch and Exploring Portobello
Start your morning at Farm Girl Café.
Their Rose Latte is one of their signature drinks, and the avocado toast or banana bread makes a great breakfast before a busy morning of exploring.
After brunch, head to Portobello Road Market, one of London’s most famous markets.
The market stretches for nearly two miles and offers everything from antiques and vintage clothing to artwork and street food. Even if you’re not planning to shop, it’s one of the most enjoyable places to wander.
Take your time exploring the side streets branching off Portobello Road. Some of the prettiest corners of Notting Hill are found away from the main market.
Visit the Notting Hill Bookshop
One of the most famous stops in the neighborhood is the Notting Hill Bookshop.
Many visitors recognize it because of the film Notting Hill, but even beyond its movie connection, it’s a charming independent bookstore worth browsing.
If you’re looking for a unique souvenir from London, this is a great place to pick one up. The colorful canvas bags are a great option!
Afternoon Exploring Notting Hill
Continue exploring some of Notting Hill’s most photogenic streets.
Don’t miss:
- Lancaster Road
- Elgin Crescent
- St Luke’s Mews
- Westbourne Grove
These streets showcase the colorful Victorian homes that have made Notting Hill famous around the world.
If you’d like a break, stop for coffee at The Café at St John’s. The café is located inside a church and offers one of the most unique coffee shop settings in London.
Other places to check out:
- Catch a movie at Electric Cinema
- Café at St John’s Notting Hill (coffee in a church)
- Shopping along Westbourne Grove
- Exploring nearby Holland Park
- Visiting Kyoto Garden
Final Evening in London
For your final dinner in London, keep things relaxed and memorable.
The Churchill Arms is one of the most photographed pubs in London thanks to its incredible flower displays and cozy atmosphere. It’s a great place to enjoy classic British pub food.
If you’d prefer something more modern, Gold is one of the neighborhood’s most popular restaurants and offers an excellent menu focused on seasonal ingredients.
After dinner, take one last walk through the quiet streets of Notting Hill. The neighborhood is especially beautiful in the evening when the crowds have gone home and the colorful homes glow under the streetlights.
It’s the perfect way to end your first trip to London.
Getting Around London
London is one of the easiest cities in the world to navigate thanks to its extensive public transportation system.
For this itinerary, I recommend using contactless payment or an Oyster Card on the London Underground, buses, and trains. Most attractions are connected by the Tube, and many neighborhoods included in this itinerary are best explored on foot.
Google Maps works exceptionally well in London and can help you navigate public transportation throughout your trip.
FAQ About Visiting London
What If I only have 4 days for London for my first visit?
If you only have 4 days in London, it’s still worth going. For 4 days in London, I would use Day 1, Day 2, Day 4, and Day 6 from this itinerary.
What is the best area to stay in London for first-time visitors?
Kensington, South Kensington, Covent Garden, Westminster, and Marylebone are excellent neighborhoods for first-time visitors.
My personal favorite is Kensington because it offers a quieter, more residential feel while still providing easy access to London’s major attractions.
How much should I budget for 6 days in London?
Expect to spend approximately £150–£350 per day depending on accommodations, dining choices, and activities.
What is the best month to visit London?
May, June, September, and October offer mild weather and smaller crowds than peak summer. I’ve visited London in April, September, and December, and April offered the best combination of blooming flowers, lower hotel prices, and manageable crowds.
London in December feels magical with the Christmas decorations, markets, and whimsical events happening around the city.
Final Thoughts on This 6 Day London Itinerary
Whether it’s your first trip to London or your fifth, this 6 day London itinerary balances iconic landmarks, local neighborhoods, and memorable day trips. Save this guide for later, download the map, and start booking your attractions early – especially the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and any West End shows.
Looking for more London travel tips? Read my guides to the best things to do in London, the Harry Potter Studio Tour, and other posts on England!
