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Dive into this exciting 5-day self-guided trip in London, surrounded by romantic views and the city’s unique cultural charm.
London, the magnificent city often featured in movies, offers iconic British landmarks, charming markets, and expansive gardens. With so much to explore, can you truly experience all of London in just five days? The answer is YES!
As the capital of the United Kingdom, London is full of fascinating attractions. To help you make the most of your time, we’ve carefully selected the best activities, top sights, and must-try foods. This 5-day itinerary is specially designed for first-time visitors to the city! Let’s explore London with Mytour!
5-Day 4-Night Self-Guided London Itinerary
Day 1: Explore the South Bank of the City
1. Explore the City on a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
Since it’s your first day, why not explore the city on a Hop-on Hop-off bus? It’s a popular choice for first-time visitors to London, offering a relaxed way to take in the sights and visit all the major attractions at your own pace. In fact, most of the locations on Day 1’s itinerary are stops on the bus route.
With a 24-hour bus ticket purchased through Mytour, you can hop on and off the bus as many times as you like throughout the day, and enjoy Wi-Fi and an audio guide onboard. During both summer and winter, there are even night bus tours you can join to avoid the daytime heat.
2. Tower Bridge - Tower Bridge and Potters Fields Park
Begin your adventure with London’s most iconic landmark, Tower Bridge. Built over the River Thames in the 19th century to connect the northern and southern parts of the city, this bridge is easily recognizable from afar with its towering Gothic spires and blue steel framework. There’s even a glass walkway 43 meters high where you can take in stunning panoramic views of the city from the bridge’s summit!
While you can walk across the bridge, the best way to admire Tower Bridge is definitely from the riverbank. Mytourers’ favorite viewing spot is Potters Fields Park. Located just southwest of the bridge, this park is not only a popular photo op but also a perfect place for a picnic!
3. Bữa Trưa Tại Chợ Borough
London nổi tiếng với ẩm thực đường phố phong phú, với nhiều chợ và khu ẩm thực để bạn lựa chọn. Tuy nhiên, Chợ Borough mang tính lịch sử chắc chắn là một trong những địa điểm yêu thích của chúng tôi. Bạn sẽ "choáng ngợp" trước vô vàn lựa chọn ẩm thực tại chợ này, với các nhà hàng, quán rượu và quầy hàng cung cấp đủ loại đồ ngọt hấp dẫn và các món ăn ngon miệng từ khắp nơi trên thế giới.
Lưu ý: Chợ Borough đóng cửa vào thứ Hai, vì vậy hãy đảm bảo bạn đến tham quan vào các ngày khác.
4. The Shard
Chỉ cách Chợ Borough 5 phút đi bộ là The Shard, từng được gọi là Tháp Cầu London. Với chiều cao 310 mét, đây là tòa nhà cao nhất Vương quốc Anh! Chắc chắn bạn sẽ có được tầm nhìn toàn cảnh tuyệt vời không nơi sánh được của thành phố từ đài quan sát của tòa nhà, khiến nó trở thành một trong những điểm tham quan nổi tiếng nhất của London.
Ngoài ra, The Shard còn có nhiều nhà hàng và quán bar, nhiều nơi cung cấp chỗ ngồi cạnh cửa sổ với tầm nhìn tuyệt vời. Vì vậy, bạn thậm chí có thể dùng bữa trưa ở đây thay vì Chợ Borough nếu muốn!
5. Tate Modern
If you’re an art enthusiast, a visit to Tate Modern is a must! Inside, you’ll encounter vibrant contemporary art exhibitions and works by famous modern artists from around the world. It’s the largest modern art museum in the UK, housing a permanent collection that includes pieces by Picasso and Warhol. The best part? Entrance to the galleries and most exhibitions is completely free!
6. London Eye Ferris Wheel and Jubilee Gardens
As the sun sets on your first day in London, why not take a ride on the majestic London Eye? Standing at 135 meters, it’s the tallest Ferris wheel in Europe and offers a fantastic way to enjoy panoramic views of London’s skyline and the River Thames. The experience lasts about 30 minutes, so be sure to book your spot in advance!
Next to the London Eye, you’ll find Jubilee Gardens, an ideal spot for some of the best photos with the iconic Ferris wheel in the background. This charming landscaped park is always buzzing with pop-up events and food stalls. If you choose not to ride the London Eye, Mytour recommends relaxing here in the evening.
7. Dinner at Waterloo
Waterloo is the perfect spot for dinner, a lively area famous not only for its theater scene but also for a wide range of dining options. Mytour recommends several restaurants you should check out – Crust Bros or Pizza Pilgrims for relaxed-style pizza, Rosa's Thai or Gogo Pocha for delicious Asian flavors, or The Archduke for those craving a juicy steak.
If you still have energy left for the evening, we suggest exploring the vibrant nightlife in this area. From chic rooftop bars to lively pubs, why not visit one or two to wrap up your first day in London?
Day 2: Explore Historic Landmarks in Westminster
1. Traditional English Breakfast in Westminster
Start your second day in Westminster, where you’ll easily find traditional English breakfasts. Popular spots include Regency Cafe, Cafe Nuvo, Bill’s Victoria Restaurant, or Astral Cafe, all serving a hearty full English breakfast. What better way to begin your London day than with a classic English breakfast, right, #teamMytour?
2. Buckingham Palace
A must-visit during your 5-day trip to London is Buckingham Palace. Adorned with gold and boasting 775 rooms inside, this royal palace is even more magnificent in person. For first-time visitors, don’t miss the Changing of the Guard ceremony, one of the most famous traditions associated with the palace. The ceremony begins at 10:45, but we recommend arriving at least 20-30 minutes early to secure a good viewing spot, especially during the summer months.
3. Westminster Abbey and Big Ben
Just a 15-minute walk from Buckingham Palace, you’ll be in awe of the majestic Westminster Abbey. This historic landmark, with a history spanning nearly a millennium, is the coronation church of British monarchs and the site of many grand royal weddings.
Whether you go inside or not, Westminster Abbey will captivate you with its stunning Gothic architecture. Take time to admire its intricate details, vivid stone statues, and the awe-inspiring interior space.
Next to Westminster Abbey stands Big Ben, the iconic clock tower with its four massive clock faces. Don’t miss your chance to snap a photo with this famous London landmark!
#MytourTip: Want a perfect shot with the clock tower? Walk along Great George Street / A302, where you’ll find the famous red phone booths – a popular spot to photograph Big Ben in the background. Another great photo op is from Westminster Bridge, where you can capture not only Big Ben but also the Houses of Parliament and the River Thames in your frame.
4. Trafalgar Square
Located in the heart of London, Trafalgar Square is an unmissable destination. This lively space is always buzzing with activity, from grand ceremonies and vibrant street performances to attention-grabbing protests. Take a moment to admire the iconic fountains, majestic lion statues, and the towering Nelson's Column that stands proudly in the center of the square. Don’t forget to grab a light lunch or coffee at one of the surrounding cafes before continuing your adventure.
5. Hyde Park
If you're looking for a peaceful retreat after the hustle and bustle, Hyde Park is the perfect escape. Spanning a vast 350 acres, Hyde Park is a green oasis in the middle of London. As you stroll through, you'll encounter diverse landscapes, from picturesque wetlands and vibrant flower gardens to lively playgrounds, energetic sports areas, and tranquil historical landmarks. During winter, the park transforms into a festive wonderland with the Winter Wonderland, a bustling Christmas market, and the UK’s largest ice skating rink, promising unforgettable experiences.
6. Kensington Gardens and Kensington Palace
Leaving Hyde Park behind, continue your journey through the beautiful Kensington Gardens, another royal park in London. Covering 265 acres, the gardens offer a serene green space to relax. Art lovers can visit the Serpentine Gallery to admire unique works of art. Don’t forget to capture some memorable photos next to the majestic Albert Memorial and the famous Peter Pan statue. The park also features the Diana Memorial Playground, a perfect spot for children to play freely.
Next to Kensington Gardens is Kensington Palace, the official residence of the Prince and Princess of Wales. The palace's impressive architecture and the opulent rooms inside are sure to leave you in awe.
7. Dinner in Kensington
After a day full of exploration, treat yourself to a delicious dinner in the vibrant Kensington neighborhood. There’s a wide variety of dining options here, from upscale venues like Maggie Jones's, Dishoom, and Da Mario to more budget-friendly spots such as Publiq or Stick & Bowl.
Day 3: Reliving Childhood in North London
1. Breakfast at King's Cross
Today will be a long day of sightseeing, so start with a hearty breakfast in the King's Cross area. You can opt for a sandwich and coffee at Pret A Manger, or try other places like Giraffe, Caravan King's Cross Restaurant, or Le Pain Quotidien.
King's Cross is not just a historic train station but also a favorite destination for Harry Potter fans. You can snap a photo at the legendary Platform 9 ¾ model and shop for authentic Harry Potter merchandise at the official store.
2. Camden Town
In the morning and afternoon, we will fully explore Camden Town, a trendy district famous for the massive Camden Lock Market. It’s a shopping paradise with over 1,000 unique shops selling everything from handmade crafts and antiques to clothing and accessories. You can easily spend hours wandering around, shopping for crafts, and sampling foods. If you’re hungry, there’s a food street offering street food from all over the world along the Regent’s Canal.
3. Regent's Park and London Zoo
Just a 10-minute walk from Camden Town, you’ll find the beautiful Regent’s Park, one of London’s royal parks. Take at least two hours to stroll through this scenic natural paradise, filled with vibrant flower beds, playgrounds for children, boating lakes, and more. Inside the park is the London Zoo, home to over 20,000 animal species, offering an exciting and educational experience.
4. Sherlock Holmes Museum on Baker Street
For fans of the legendary detective Sherlock Holmes, a visit to the museum at 221B Baker Street is a must. The museum brings to life the fascinating world of this brilliant detective, showcasing his work and daily life.
5. Dinner on Baker Street
In the evening, you'll find a variety of dining options on Baker Street that cater to all tastes and budgets. From mouthwatering burgers at Chicken Shop to refined dishes at Bill's Baker Street Restaurant, you're sure to find something to satisfy your appetite.
6. Monopoly Game
For Monopoly enthusiasts, the unique Monopoly Lifesized experience, which opened in 2021, allows you to step into a giant version of the game. Become a life-sized game piece and compete with friends and family to buy properties, complete challenges, and claim victory.
Day 4: Exploring London City
1. Breakfast at Ludgate Hill
Fuel up for your exciting day with a hearty breakfast in the Ludgate Hill area. Choose from quick spots like Côte St. Paul's, Pret A Manger, Poppins Cafe, or Carter Lane Coffee House to save time.
2. St. Paul's Cathedral
Start your journey to explore the City of London with the iconic St. Paul's Cathedral. This stunning Baroque masterpiece was the site of Prince Charles and Princess Diana's royal wedding. Take time to explore the historic crypt, admire the works of art, climb the 528 steps to enjoy breathtaking views of London, and visit the Whispering Gallery and the Golden Gallery for a complete experience.
3. Leadenhall Market
Just a 15-minute walk from St. Paul's Cathedral, Leadenhall Market offers a unique shopping experience with over 700 years of history. Here, you’ll find an array of quirky shops, high-end retailers, luxurious restaurants, cafes, and bars. A perfect spot to enjoy lunch at places like Tortilla, Giorgio, Pizza Express, or Bob Bob Ricard City.
4. Sky Garden
Situated at the top of the iconic Walkie Talkie building, Sky Garden is a tranquil green oasis amidst the bustling city. Enjoy a stunning 360-degree view of the magnificent London skyline. Immerse yourself in the refreshing atmosphere, embrace the vibrant greenery, and relax at one of the upscale restaurants or modern bars. Make sure to book in advance for the chance to explore this stunning garden for free.
5. St. Dunstan-In-The-East Garden
If you're seeking a peaceful retreat, the St. Dunstan-in-the-East Garden is the perfect spot. Once a parish church, it was destroyed during World War II and has since been transformed into a lush green space, featuring a gentle fountain, shade-giving trees, and ivy-covered ancient walls. Take time to unwind, enjoy the serene atmosphere, and experience a sense of inner peace.
6. Tower of London
Dating back nearly a thousand years, the Tower of London is a historic fortress that once served as a royal palace, a grim prison, and a site for many tragic executions. A must-visit for history enthusiasts, you can easily spend over an hour exploring the grounds. Highlights include the Crown Jewels, a breathtaking display of crowns and scepters encrusted with diamonds, but don't miss a stroll through the lush outdoor gardens as well.
#MytourTips: While many suggest visiting early in the morning to avoid the crowds, we personally prefer to explore in the late afternoon as the busiest crowds tend to start thinning out after 3 PM.
7. Dinner Cruise on the Thames River
This is your last evening in London, so why not treat yourself to a memorable dinner cruise on the Thames River? Savor a sophisticated four-course meal with loved ones, enjoy lively entertainment, and take in the stunning views of the city lit up at night. It’s the perfect way to end your emotional journey through the magnificent city of London.
Day 5: Shop ‘Til You Drop at Covent Garden, Mayfair & Soho
1. Breakfast at Covent Garden
Covent Garden, with its Italian-style shopping arcades, is a paradise for shoppers, featuring a variety of stores, cafés, restaurants, and market stalls! This area is home to three different markets, including the famous Apple Market, where you can find unique crafts, jewelry, antiques, and more. You’ll also come across many artists' studios and street performances throughout the area.
Before diving into your shopping spree, why not grab a quick breakfast at one of the many restaurants in Covent Garden? Some of our top picks include Bill's Covent Garden, Fernando's, 26 Grains, and Lilly's Cafe.
2. The British Museum
Perhaps the most renowned museum in the city, the British Museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts from around the globe, with over 100,000 objects spanning thousands of years. You could easily lose yourself in the maze-like corridors, spending hours exploring each exhibit. To save you some time, here are a few highlights to check out: the Parthenon Sculptures in Room 18, the Rosetta Stone in Room 4, and the Aztec Serpent God in Room 27.
Planning to spend the entire day at the museum? Don't worry, as there are plenty of cafes and restaurants inside to keep you fueled whenever you need a break.
3. Shopping in Mayfair
Spend the rest of your day shopping in Mayfair, home to some of London’s most famous shopping streets. This is a large area, but we recommend starting at Oxford Street, the busiest shopping street in Europe, where you'll find all the major stores and smaller boutiques, as well as souvenir shops. After exploring Oxford Street, you can continue shopping along Regent Street, Piccadilly Circus, and Bond Street, each offering countless retail stores for hours of shopping.
4. China Town
When you think of London, you often picture its historic buildings, bustling streets, or luxurious shopping districts. However, tucked away in the heart of this vibrant city lies a slice of the East - London’s Chinatown. Here, you can experience a wide array of Chinese cuisine, from delicate dim sum and fragrant wonton noodles to the famous Peking duck, all prepared by skilled chefs ready to tantalize your taste buds. The lively atmosphere, filled with street vendors and soft music, adds to the district’s unique charm. Chinatown is also a shopper's paradise, offering a range of souvenirs, jewelry, cosmetics, and one-of-a-kind handcrafted goods.
5. Soho
If you have some spare time, don’t miss the lively Soho district! This vibrant area is the perfect spot for entertainment, dining, and experiencing the city’s nightlife. Once you’ve satisfied your shopping cravings, we highly recommend unwinding by watching a show at one of Soho’s theaters, grabbing a drink at a jazz bar, or simply enjoying a lavish dinner at a restaurant to cap off your day.
Hotel Suggestions for a 5-Day, 4-Night London Trip
Your journey through London will be even more enjoyable if you find the perfect hotel. Here are a few suggestions to help you choose the ideal place to stay during your visit:
1. Arriva Hotel
- Address: 47-55 Swinton Street (Kings Cross)
- Starting Price: 3,004,533 VND per night
2. ibis London Blackfriars
- Address: 49 Blackfriars Road
- Starting Price: 2,954,473 VND per night
3. The Westminster London
- Address: 30 John Islip Street (Westminster)
- Starting Price: 5,094,685 VND per night
4. The Belgrave
- Address: 80-86 Belgrave Road
- Starting Price: 3,711,264 VND per night
5. The Westin London City
- Address: 60 Upper Thames Street
- Starting Price: 9,897,691 VND per night
6. Hotel Indigo London Tower Hill
- Address: 142 Minories (Matheson House)
- Starting Price: 3,642,133 VND per night
Estimated Cost for a 5-Day, 4-Night Trip to London
Note: The costs outlined below are estimates and do not include airfare, accommodation, or transportation, which can vary based on your preferences and choices. Generally, the cost for a 5-day, 4-night trip to London can range from 25,000,000 to 50,000,000 VND per traveler.
Day 1
- Sightseeing:
- Hop-on Hop-off Bus: 24 hours (~450,000 VND)
- Tower Bridge: free
- Potters Fields Park: free
- Borough Market: free
- The Shard: from 340,000 VND
- Tate Modern: free
- London Eye: from 470,000 VND
- Jubilee Gardens: free
- Dining:
- Lunch at Borough Market: from 200,000 VND
- Dinner at Waterloo: from 400,000 VND
- Estimated cost: from 1,860,000 VND
Day 2
- Sightseeing:
- English Breakfast: from 200,000 VND
- Buckingham Palace: from 250,000 VND
- Westminster Abbey: from 250,000 VND
- Big Ben: free
- Trafalgar Square: free
- Hyde Park: free
- Kensington Gardens: free
- Kensington Palace: from 250,000 VND
- Dining:
- Lunch: from 200,000 VND
- Dinner at Kensington: from 400,000 VND
- Estimated cost: from 1,800,000 VND
Day 3
- Activities:
- Breakfast at King's Cross: from 200,000 VND
- King's Cross: free
- Camden Town: free
- Regent Park: free
- London Zoo: from 700,000 VND
- Sherlock Holmes Museum: from 200,000 VND
- Meals:
- Lunch: from 200,000 VND
- Dinner at Baker Street: from 400,000 VND
- Monopoly Lifesized game: from 400,000 VND
- Estimated cost: from 2,100,000 VND
Day 4
- Activities:
- Breakfast at Ludgate Hill: from 200,000 VND
- St. Paul's Cathedral: from 250,000 VND
- Leadenhall Market: free
- Sky Garden: free
- St. Dunstan-in-the-East Church Garden: free
- Tower of London: from 250,000 VND
- Meals:
- Lunch: from 200,000 VND
- Dinner on a Thames River cruise: from 1,000,000 VND
- Estimated cost: from 1,900,000 VND
Day 5
- Activities:
- Breakfast at Covent Garden: from 200,000 VND
- British Museum: free
- Shopping at Mayfair: free
- Chinatown: free
- Soho: free
- Meals:
- Lunch: from 200,000 VND
- Dinner: from 400,000 VND
- Estimated cost: from 800,000 VND
The total basic consumption cost for a 5-day, 4-night trip: starting from 9,260,000 VND per person
London, a vibrant and diverse city, left an unforgettable impression on me. With a 5-day, 4-night London itinerary, you’ll experience everything from majestic historical landmarks to lively modern neighborhoods, from delicious traditional foods to friendly locals—painting a vivid and dynamic picture of London.
And of course, Mytour is always there to accompany you to all corners of the world through Mytour Blog Vietnam. There are many useful travel articles about Europe for you to explore, such as travel ideas for Provence, France, beautiful museums in Paris, tourist spots in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, everything about the Swiss Travel Pass, Vatican travel tips, and famous tourist destinations in Germany…
Have you already prepared for your 5-day, 4-night trip to London?
