London can feel overwhelming when you’re visiting for the first time. I get it. With so much to see and limited time, you need a plan that actually works.
This 4 days in London itinerary will help you hit the main attractions without the stress. I’ll show you how to get around, where to stay, and which neighborhoods deserve your time.
You’ll visit Westminster, Borough Market, the Tower of London, and Covent Garden. I’ll also share transport tips and local food spots.
I’ve lived here long enough to know what works and what wastes your time. By the end, you’ll feel confident about making the most of your trip.
Let’s get you ready for an amazing few days in this incredible city.
Getting to London
London has six airports, but most visitors fly into Heathrow or Gatwick. Heathrow sits 15 miles west of central London.
From there, the Heathrow Express train reaches Paddington Station in 15 minutes for around £25.
The Tube is cheaper at about £5 and takes 45 minutes. Gatwick Express runs to Victoria Station in 30 minutes for around £20.
Pick your airport based on flight price and convenience, but remember to factor in transport costs to the city center.
Where to Stay
Covent Garden is my top pick for first-timers. You’re within walking distance of theaters, restaurants, and the Tube.
For budget stays, try Z Hotel Covent Garden (£80-£120 per night). Mid-range options include Cavendish London Hotel near Piccadilly Circus (£150-£250).
For luxury, Chesterfield Mayfair offers refined rooms and afternoon tea (£300+). Always choose accommodation within a five-minute walk of a Tube station to make your days easier.
Getting Around
The Tube is London’s fastest transport option. Use a contactless credit card to tap in and out at stations the system automatically caps your daily spending.
Peak times run weekdays from 6:30-9:30 AM and 4-7 PM, so travel off-peak when possible.
Download Citymapper before your trip. It shows every transport route and tells you which is fastest. Red double-decker buses cost £1.75 per ride and let you see the city above ground.
Day 1: Westminster, Borough Market & The London Eye
Start at Buckingham Palace around 9 AM. If the Changing of the Guard is happening (check schedules), get there early as crowds gather quickly.
Walk down The Mall toward Westminster Abbey, then see Big Ben and Parliament. Cross Westminster Bridge for photos. This morning walk covers about two miles and takes 3-4 hours.
Take the Tube to London Bridge for Borough Market. This covered food market has operated for over 1,000 years.
Try fresh oysters at Richard Haward’s stall or grab a chorizo sandwich from Brindisa. Budget £15-£25 per person for lunch.
Walk west along the riverside to the London Eye. Book tickets online in advance to skip queues. The 30-minute ride gives you 360-degree views of London.
Going at sunset if possible watching the city lights come on is memorable.
Day 2: Tower of London & Sky Garden
Catch a river cruise from Westminster Pier around 9 AM. The boat ride to Tower Pier takes 30-40 minutes and shows you London from a different angle.
The Tower of London opens at 9 AM. Go straight to the Crown Jewels when you arrive lines grow fast. Join a free Yeoman Warder tour where Beefeaters share gruesome stories about executions and famous prisoners.
Walk along the fortress walls and visit the White Tower. Allow 3-4 hours total.
Walk to Tower Bridge for photos, then head west toward St. Paul’s Cathedral. The climb to the Whispering Gallery involves 528 steps but gives incredible views.
Head to Sky Garden at 20 Fenchurch Street around 5 PM. This free observation deck sits atop the “Walkie Talkie” building. Book a free time slot in advance on their website. The 360-degree windows show all of London as the sun sets.
Day 3: Covent Garden, Museums & West End Show
Start at Trafalgar Square where the free National Gallery sits. Nelson’s Column rises in the center with four bronze lions at its base.
Walk through Leicester Square to Piccadilly Circus with its famous digital billboards. These three squares sit within a 10-minute walk of each other.
Covent Garden is five minutes from Leicester Square. The covered market hall holds shops, restaurants, and street performers. Watch acts ranging from musicians to acrobats in the central piazza. Walk through Neal’s Yard, a hidden colorful courtyard with cafes.
If you want museums, the National Gallery has works by Van Gogh, Monet, and Da Vinci. The National Portrait Gallery focuses on famous British figures. Both are free.
Book a West End show for evening entertainment. Most shows start at 7:30 PM. Pick a musical like Hamilton or Les Miserables.
The TKTS booth in Leicester Square sells same-day discounted tickets. Eat dinner before or after the show at restaurants near theaters.
Day 4: Notting Hill & Kensington
I prefer staying in London on day four to see neighborhoods at a relaxed pace rather than doing a day trip.
Start in Notting Hill with breakfast at Gail’s Bakery for fresh pastries and good coffee. Walk down Portobello Road the antique market runs on Saturdays but shops open daily.
You’ll find vintage clothing, jewelry, and collectibles. The colorful houses make great photos.
Head to Holland Park for a peaceful break. The Japanese Kyoto Garden inside is free and feels like an escape from the city. Walk through Kensington Gardens to see the Albert Memorial and Kensington Palace. Continue into Hyde Park for more green space.
Both the Victoria and Albert Museum and Natural History Museum sit in South Kensington and are free. The V&A shows decorative arts and design through history.
The Natural History Museum has dinosaur skeletons and a beautiful Victorian building. Pick based on your interests you could spend hours in either one.
Additional Tips
Small preparations make a big difference in how much you enjoy your trip.
Packing Essentials:
- Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll hit 15,000-20,000 steps daily)
- Small backpack for water, snacks, and layers
- Light rain jacket or umbrella (rain happens year-round)
Avoiding Crowds:
- Visit major attractions right when they open (before 10 AM)
- Hit museums after 3 PM when tourists thin out
- Book timed tickets online to skip entrance lines
Food Experiences:
- Try a full English breakfast once (eggs, bacon, sausage, beans, tomatoes, toast)
- Grab fish and chips or a pie at a traditional pub
- Get afternoon tea at a cafe for £15-£20 instead of £50 at hotels
- Check out Indian, Middle Eastern, and Asian spots at Borough Market and Brick Lane
Conclusion
London packs so much into four days, but this itinerary keeps you from feeling rushed. You’ll hit the main sights and get a feel for different neighborhoods.
Each day has its own character, from royal palaces to riverside walks to theater nights.
I still remember my first time doing 4 days in London. I tried to see everything and ended up exhausted. That’s why I built this plan around actually enjoying yourself, not just checking boxes.
Don’t stress if you skip something. London will still be here next time. The city has that effect on people you’ll want to come back.
Save this guide and let me know in the comments which day you’re most excited about! Share your own London tips too.
Frequently asked questions
How much money should I budget for 4 days in London?
Plan for £100-£150 per person daily for mid-range travel covering accommodation, food, transport, and attractions. Budget travelers can manage £60-£80 daily. Luxury visitors should budget £250+ per day.
What’s the best way to get around London?
The Tube is fastest for longer distances. Walking works well for central areas. Use contactless payment for all public transport and download Citymapper to plan routes.
Can I visit London with kids using this itinerary?
Yes, but adjust the pace. Kids love the Tower of London, river cruise, and the Natural History Museum. Add playground breaks in parks. Most attractions offer family tickets at reduced prices.
What should I do if it rains?
Head to free museums like the British Museum, V&A, or National Gallery. Visit covered markets like Borough Market or Covent Garden. London has tons of indoor options so rain won’t ruin your plans.