Our 6-Day London Itinerary: Everything We're Planning to See as First-Time Visitors

Planning a trip to London can feel overwhelming. With centuries of history, world-famous landmarks, incredible museums, and amazing food around every corner, narrowing down what to see isn't easy.

After weeks of research, we've put together what we think is the perfect six-day London itinerary for first-time visitors. Our goal is to experience London's iconic attractions, enjoy some incredible local food, and still leave time to explore some of the city's unique neighborhoods.

Here's everything we're planning for our trip.

Day 1: Museums & South Kensington

After arriving in London, we're heading straight into one of the city's most beautiful museum districts.

Our plans include:

  • Natural History Museum

  • Victoria and Albert Museum

  • Dinner in South Kensington

We're keeping the first day fairly relaxed to help adjust after the flight while still seeing some of London's most impressive museums.

Day 2: London's Historic Heart

This is the day we've been looking forward to the most.

Our itinerary includes:

  • Tower of London

  • Tower Bridge

  • Borough Market

  • Leadenhall Market

  • St. Paul's Cathedral

The Tower of London has been at the top of our list since we started planning. Between the Crown Jewels, the famous ravens, centuries of royal history, and its location along the River Thames, it feels like one of London's must-see experiences.

We'll finish the day exploring one of London's oldest markets before grabbing dinner nearby.

Day 3: History Meets Movie Magic

This day combines two completely different experiences.

Plans include:

  • British Museum

  • Covent Garden

  • Harry Potter Studio Tour

The British Museum has so many world-famous artifacts that we could probably spend an entire day there, but we're saving time for one of the experiences we're most excited about—the Harry Potter Studio Tour.

Day 4: Royal London

No first trip to London would feel complete without experiencing the city's royal history.

Our plans include:

  • Buckingham Palace

  • Westminster Abbey

  • Churchill War Rooms

From the State Rooms inside Buckingham Palace to the incredible history beneath Westminster, this day is packed with iconic landmarks.

Day 5: Football, Art & Soho

This day mixes sports, culture, and great food.

We're planning to visit:

  • Arsenal Stadium Tour

  • Afternoon Tea

  • National Gallery

  • Carnaby Street

  • Soho

One of the things we love about London is how quickly you can go from world-class museums to historic shopping streets and amazing restaurants.

Day 6: Shopping Before Heading Home

Before flying home, we're planning one last day to explore some of London's famous shopping districts.

Stops include:

  • Marylebone

  • Selfridges

  • Harrods

It's the perfect way to wrap up the trip while picking up a few souvenirs before heading to the airport.

What We're Most Excited About

If we had to narrow it down, these are the experiences we're anticipating the most:

  • The Tower of London

  • Harry Potter Studio Tour

  • Buckingham Palace

  • Borough Market

  • Afternoon Tea

  • Tower Bridge

  • St. Paul's Cathedral

Each offers something completely different, which is one reason London feels like such an incredible destination for first-time visitors.

Follow Along

This itinerary is the result of weeks of planning, and we can't wait to see how it compares to the real experience.

After our trip, we'll be sharing:

  • Honest attraction reviews

  • Food recommendations

  • What was worth booking

  • Hidden gems we discover

  • Travel tips for future visitors

  • Travel apparel inspiration

If you're planning your own London adventure, we hope this itinerary gives you ideas for building a trip that's full of history, incredible food, and unforgettable experiences.Before you finalize your itinerary, check out my London Packing Essentials guide so you don't forget anything before your flight.