The Perfect 3 – 5 Days London Itinerary

London is one of those cities I keep returning to — six visits and counting — but a few years ago I finally experienced it through fresh eyes when I traveled with family members who had never been before. After that trip, I put together a rough itinerary for a friend visiting London for the first time. Over the years, I’ve ended up forwarding that same email to so many people that I finally decided: I might as well just put it here!

This post is the polished, expanded version of that original itinerary — the one I send whenever someone asks, “What should I do in London?” If you’re planning 3–5 days in the city, especially with kids or first-time visitors, this guide includes my absolute favorites: the iconic sights, the hidden gems, and the experiences that make London feel timeless and magical. If you use this guide and find any discrepancies due to recent changes, please shoot me a note! I don’t have London on my travel schedule for now, unless I win the elusive Wimbledon ticket lottery!

Day 1: Harry Potter Magic + Evening Stroll

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London: The Making of Harry Potter

If you’re traveling with kids, teens, or honestly, anyone who loves the Harry Potter films, start your trip here. It’s one of the most impressive behind-the-scenes experiences I’ve ever done.

Why it’s amazing: The Great Hall, Diagon Alley, sets, props, and many “they really did that?!” moments. It is also a great “Day 1” activity if you arrive on an overnight flight and need to stay awake to get over jet lag. This will keep you moving, and a half day is all you need for it.

Getting there:

• 20-minute train from Euston Station to Watford Junction
• Dedicated shuttle bus to the studio
• Time needed: 4–5 hours
• Book early: Tickets often sell out weeks in advance – 🔗 https://www.wbstudiotour.co.uk/

Day 2: Classic London — Tower of London → Westminster Abbey → The London Eye

Breakfast at Borough Market

Start with pastries, fruit, or coffee from Borough Market — one of London’s most beloved food markets.

Tower of London

History lovers and kids alike adore this place.

• Plan for: 3 hours
• Highlights: Crown Jewels, medieval towers, weapons, ravens, and centuries of stories.

Walk or Tube along the Thames

Head toward Big Ben and Westminster Abbey — you can walk the river path or take the Tube if you’re short on time.

Westminster Abbey

If the Abbey is open, go inside — it’s spectacular, historic, and worth every minute. During one of my trips, I quietly snuck in the back as service was taking place. It was very special, even though I didn’t know the first thing about the Anglican Church. Check hours in advance.

London Eye at Sunset

This is one of the “touristy” activities that really is worth it.
Pro Tip: You can book tickets in advance and schedule your ride for sunset. Watching Parliament and Big Ben light up is unforgettable.

Where to eat near the Eye

There are several good, not-too-touristy restaurants right across the bridge. I’ve had excellent pizza on the left side as you cross toward the Eye.

Day 3: History, Royalty & Green Spaces

Churchill War Rooms

One of my favorite museums in the world — immersive, brilliantly curated, and emotionally powerful.
Plan for 2–3 hours – 🔗 https://winstonchurchill.org/visit/churchill-war-rooms/

Buckingham Palace

Right next door to the War Rooms … sort of. But St. James’ Park offers the perfect setting for a walk. Or you can take a slightly longer route and approach the Palace from The Mall, which is the grand ceremonial avenue between Trafalgar Square and Buckingham Palace.

Insider tip: If the monarch is not in residence, parts of the Palace may be open for tours. Check the schedule — it’s well worth it.

Hyde Park

Perfect for a slow walk, a picnic, or paddle boats on the Serpentine. London’s parks are one of its greatest joys.

Day 4 (Optional): Windsor Castle

Windsor & Windsor Castle

A quick train ride from Waterloo Station brings you to Windsor — a charming town with one of the most impressive royal residences in the world. I actually managed to take a decent shot from the air as we approached Heathrow this past summer.

Day 5 (Optional): Day Trip to Paris

If you’re up for it, hop on the early Eurostar.

What to see in one day:

• Eiffel Tower & Arc de Triomphe
• Musée d’Orsay (a stunning former railway station)
• Wandering Parisian streets and cafés, especially Le Marais or Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Any Day: British Museum

Whether you squeeze it in pre-flight or use it to fill a free afternoon, the British Museum is incredible. Even if you’re not a museum person, you’ll find something fascinating.

• Plan for: 2–4 hours
• Admission: Free.

My Two Favorite London Neighborhoods

London is full of famous landmarks, but its neighborhoods are where the city really shines. These two are personal favorites I return to again and again:

Marylebone

Quiet, elegant, and village-like, Marylebone is a beautiful place to wander. Expect leafy streets, chic boutiques, cozy cafés, and easy access to Regent’s Park. It’s sophisticated without being stuffy — one of the best areas for aimless strolling.

Notting Hill

Colorful, charming, and endlessly photogenic. From the pastel townhouses to Portobello Road Market, Notting Hill has a whimsical atmosphere that makes it perfect for a lazy afternoon. Pop into the boutiques, browse vintage stalls, or settle in for brunch or a glass of wine.

Whether you’re staying here or just exploring for a few hours, both neighborhoods give you a taste of London’s everyday magic.

Where to Stay

For first-time visitors, these areas are all great home bases:

• South Bank — walkable, family-friendly, great views
• Covent Garden — restaurants, shops, theater
• South Kensington — museums + beautiful streets
• Marylebone — chic, calm, centrally located
• Notting Hill — colorful, charming, and village-like

London Travel Tips

• Book major attractions ahead of time (Harry Potter Studios, London Eye).
• Use the Tube across town — it’s safe, fast, and easy.
• Walk as much as possible — London rewards wandering.
• Wear comfortable shoes — you’ll cover more miles than you expect.
• Time the Eye for sunset for an unforgettable view.
• Keep your first day light if you’re coming from overseas. The Harry Potter experience is perfect! Keeps you moving and a half day is about all the time it needs.