Super Simple Itinerary for 4 Days in London

How should you spend 4 days in London? You have endless possibilities, and probably don’t know where to start.

As a Londoner, I know you want to maximise your time in this massive city and see as much as possible.

I’ve written you the perfect London 4 day itinerary so you can see it all, plus some hidden gems and experiences you may not know about.

Get your walking shoes on, and let’s see London in 4 days.

The scenic beauty of London is captured in this image, perfect for a '4 days in London' travel itinerary. It prominently features the iconic Houses of Parliament and Big Ben against a clear blue sky, with the River Thames flowing in front and several boats, including a sightseeing cruise, docked along the riverbank. Two red hearts float in the sky, symbolizing love for the city. The large, white, cursive text '4 days in London' overlays the top of the image.

Can You See London in 4 Days?

Yes! 4 days is plenty of time to see many things in London.

You won’t see it all. I’ve lived here a long time, and even I haven’t seen it all. But you can see the highlights, and the things that most tourists really want to see.

I’ve created this 4 day itinerary grouped by neighborhood so you can minimize travel time and maximize efficiency.

🖨️ Print The London 4 Day Itinerary Here 🖨️

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4 Day London Itinerary

4 days is a great amount of time to see London, but before you set off, do a bit of research so it all goes smoothly.

Before you arrive, check out my essential guides:

Four Days in London: Day One

Get your Oyster Card, lace up your trainers and let’s go!

A cheerful graphic representing day 1 of a 'London 4 day itinerary'. It features a bright blue background with the day's plan segmented into morning, afternoon, and evening activities, each with corresponding weather icons. For the morning: 'Tower of London' and 'Tower Bridge'. The afternoon is reserved for 'Leadenhall Market' and 'Skyscraper Views'. The evening schedule includes 'Tate Modern' and a 'Classic Pub Meal'. The traditional red telephone box icons on both sides of the graphic invoke the classic British experience. The text 'day 1' is prominently displayed in the center in a stylish cursive font.

For your first day in London, let’s head to the most iconic spot first.

1. The Tower of London

A vibrant split-image highlighting the historic Tower of London as part of a '4 days in London' itinerary. The left side features a clear view of the iconic medieval castle's front facade with its four turreted towers and a fluttering British flag, captured under a sunny sky. The right side provides a close-up of the main entrance with its imposing stone structure and a clock, taken on an overcast day, suggesting the varied weather one might experience. Across the center in cursive white font is 'Tower of London,' with a stylized sun illustration in the upper left corner.

£38.40 per adult, £17.40 per child, children under 5 go free
Book ahead during peak tourist seasons
Included in the London Pass

This historic castle on the banks of the Thames has been a fortress, a zoo, a royal residence, an armoury, and a site of gristly imprisonment and gruesome executions.

Starting here your first day allows you to experience London history from the very beginning of this ancient Roman city.

I recommend getting there right when it opens (either 9 or 10am, depending on the day), and going straight to either the White Tower or the Crown Jewels. These areas get the most crowded, but if you go right at opening, you’ll have most of it to yourself.

You can also join a Beefeater Tour, which leaves every 30 minutes and is included with your ticket.

Visiting the Tower with kids? Read my complete guide to navigating the Tower of London with kids here.

2. Tower Bridge

An image capturing the iconic Tower Bridge in London, ideal for a 'London 4 day itinerary'. The left side of the split-image shows a detailed view of the bridge’s northern tower and suspension chains against a blue sky with a whimsical sun and cloud icon, symbolizing daytime exploration. On the right, a perspective from the bridge deck highlights the symmetrical structure and its striking blue and white colors, with a view through to the other tower, set against a backdrop of a partly cloudy sky with a crescent moon icon, indicating the transition from day to evening. The words 'Tower Bridge' are prominently displayed in a flowing script across the center.

Adults from £12, children from £6
Included in London Pass
Open daily 9:30am – 6pm

Right next to the Tower of London is Tower Bridge (the iconic bridge pictured above). Commonly mistaken for London Bridge, this one has not fallen down.

You can get a behind-the-scenes tour with a ticket that lets you into the engine rooms and the glass walkway on top.

If you don’t want to pay for a ticket, walking across the bridge or standing in front of it is great for photos!

3. Lunch at Leadenhall Market

This image is split into two scenes representing destinations on day one of a 4-day London itinerary. On the left is the iconic Leadenhall Market, featuring its ornate red and gold Victorian roof structure, arched glass windows, and hanging lanterns, giving a sense of the historical shopping venue's ambiance. The right side of the image shows a panoramic view of London at dusk from a skyscraper, with landmarks like the River Thames, Tower Bridge, and the Shard visible under a twilight sky. In the center, 'Leadenhall market and skyscraper views' is written in cursive white font.

You’ll recognize this beautiful, ornate market from the big screen, where it stood in for Diagon Alley in the first Harry Potter film.

This charming architectural gem houses a variety of restaurants and shops with something for everyone in beautiful surroundings.

It’s a lovely place to take a break from sightseeing and fuel up with a good meal. My favourites are Osteria Del Mercato for adults, and crowd-favourite Pizza Express for lunch with kids.

4. Sky-High Views

Free
Book ahead if you can, or you can try walking up.

After lunch, get a sky-high view of London. You have a few different choices that are all close together near Leadenhall Market.

The most popular choices (and all completely free!) are:

Sky Garden: a free viewing platform within the Walkie Talkie building. Tickets go fast, but you can also walk up and try for a ticket.
Garden at 120: At the modern 120 Fenchurch Street, there’s a public rooftop garden that has breathtaking scenery, 360 degrees around. Free entry; no tickets are required.
Horizon 22: At 22 Bishopsgate there is the *highest* free viewing platform with panoramic scenery. Free but must book ahead.
The Lookout: At 8 Bishopsgate, there’s a brand new viewing platform that’s also free to enter.

5. Cross Millenium Bridge

This image artfully combines London's modern architecture and art for a 'four days in London' itinerary. In the foreground is the Millennium Bridge, a steel suspension pedestrian bridge with a distinctive futuristic design, leading towards the Tate Modern, which is displayed in the background. The Tate Modern, housed in a former power station, shows its unique industrial architecture and prominent chimney. The River Thames flows beneath the bridge, and the sky above is scattered with clouds and a crescent moon. The words 'Millennium Bridge and Tate Modern' are written in a stylish cursive font.

Taylor Swift walked across this bridge in her End Game music video, and you can too!

It’s a gorgeous glass-railed footbridge that is not only a great spot for photos, but allows you panoramic views of the Thames and the city skyline.

6. Tate Modern

Free, no booking required
Open daily 10am-6pm

This modern art museum sits on the banks of the Thames and includes masterworks by Hockney, Pollock, Warhol and many more.

7. Classic Pub Meal

You’re probably tired by now, so let’s head to a cosy pub to curl up with a pint before retiring to your hotel.

Pick The Old Thameside Inn, Anchor Bankside, or The Horniman at Hay’s for beautiful views with your pint & fish and chips.

London 4 Day Itinerary: Day Two

Graphic of a 4-day London itinerary for day 2, featuring stylized illustrations. Two crowned red jewels sit at the top corners, symbolizing royalty. Below, 'day 2' is written in large, cursive, white text against a blue background. The schedule is divided into morning, afternoon, and evening activities. In the morning: 'Buckingham Palace', 'Changing of the Guards', and 'Westminster Abbey'. In the afternoon: 'Big Ben & Parliament' and 'St. Paul's Cathedral'. In the evening: 'The London Eye' and 'Waterside Dinner'. Each time of day is represented by a sun or moon icon, with the sun for morning and afternoon, and a crescent moon for evening.

We’ve done the heavy London history at the Tower, so let’s head to Royal land on day two.

1. Buckingham Palace or Changing of the Guards

Buckingham Palace is only open in the summer and a few other select times of year. If it’s not open when you’re here, the Changing of the Guards is a good alternative.

Buckingham Palace

Open July through September and select other dates throughout the year
Adults from £32, children from £16

Buckingham Palace is only open for tours when the King is not in residence. This is usually during the summer months, select holiday breaks, and a few other times of the year.

If you’re visiting London in the summer, it’s a good idea to book these tickets as far in advance as possible since they sell out very quickly.

Changing of the Guards

Free
Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday at 10:45 am

If the Palace itself isn’t open when you’re in London, this is a great alternative to experience a bit of the grandeur of the British Monarchy.

Select days of the week you can watch this ceremonial procession that takes place in front of Buckingham Palace.

The King’s Guards march from St James’s Palace to Buckingham Palace, accompanied by music, horses, and iconic uniforms.

Arrive early to get the best views. Crowds will be heaviest right in front of the palace, but anywhere along The Mall will have great views.

2. Westminster Abbey

This vibrant image pairs two of London's most famous landmarks, perfect for a 'London 4 day itinerary'. On the left, Westminster Abbey is displayed in exquisite detail, showcasing its intricate gothic architecture and rose window. The photo captures the Abbey's facade under a sunny sky with fluffy clouds. On the right, the tall and stately Big Ben stands against a clear sky at dusk, next to the Houses of Parliament, signifying the historical significance of the area. The words 'Westminster Abbey & Big Ben' are written in a sweeping cursive font, complemented by graphic icons of a sunny day and a moonlit night, indicating a full day of exploration.

Adults from £27, children from £13
Open Monday through Saturday, 9am-3 or 3:30pm

This beautiful cathedral has been the site of centuries of history.

It’s not only the site of coronations, weddings and funerals. Many Royals and other significant figures are buried inside this church that dates from 1066.

There’s many, many graves and memorials to see inside. Pick up an audioguide, or join a tour included with your ticket.

3. Big Ben & Houses of Parliament

“Big Ben” is actually the nickname for the bell inside the tower. The real name for the structure is Elizabeth’s Tower, and it’s iconic to the London skyline.

Tours inside book up very quickly and far in advance, but you don’t have to go inside. You can get incredible views just walking around the area. It’s a great spot for photo ops.

The Houses of Parliament (aka Palace of Westminster) are the long buildings that stretch along the river, and are also available for tours.

You can also just enjoy this area by walking around and taking in the sights.

4. St James’s Park or St Paul’s Cathedral

If you’re in the mood for one more cathedral full of history, head to St. Paul’s. If not, relax in the beautiful St James’s Park.

St Paul’s Cathedral

£25 adults, £10 children
Book Ahead during peak times
Included in the London Pass

A 15-minute walk (or 9 minute bus ride) from Leadenhall Market is the iconic St Paul’s Cathedral.

This Christopher Wren-designed cathedral is an integral part of London’s skyline, and the interior is just as mind-blowing.

Don’t miss the Crypt tour, included with your ticket. It’s a guided tour that includes spots like the Geometric Staircase, not usually open to visitors. No need to book ahead – just ask at the front desk where you enter when the next one leaves.

St James’s Park

If you’re a Good Omens fan, you’ll recognize this as a park where the geese are used to secret agents feeding them.

But even if you haven’t seen it on screen, the ponds and gorgeous gardens are very much worth seeing in real life. It’s the oldest Royal Park in London.

5. The London Eye

This picturesque image invites viewers to imagine a beautiful 'four days in London,' focusing on day two with the London Eye and Thames sunsets. On the left, the majestic London Eye ferris wheel stands tall against a partly cloudy sky, its silhouette reflecting in the Thames River during the late afternoon sun. The right side of the image captures a lamplit walkway along the Thames at dusk, with the Houses of Parliament and the iconic Big Ben in the background, all bathed in the warm glow of a sunset. A sun icon and a moon with clouds are included to represent the transition from day to night. The image is overlaid with 'the London eye & Thames sunsets' in stylish cursive script.

Tickets from £32 if you book ahead (you should during peak tourist seasons)

One of London’s biggest tourist attractions is the Eye, the giant ferris wheel on the Thames.

Board on the waterfront and enjoy 30 minutes of pristine views in your clear capsule that circles around a full loop.

Tickets can be a bit pricey, so if you don’t want to do this you can also enjoy any of the nearby attractions of Borough Market, The London Dungeons, The Clink Prison Museum, The Old Operating Theatre, Tate Modern, Shakespeare’s Globe, and more along the Southbank & Southwark areas.

6. Thames Cruise & Waterside Sunset Meal

It’s time to relax on the waterside!

Hop on one of the easily accessible cruise ships, you can experience the city the way that Londoners have done for thousands of years.

You can use your Oyster Card to hop on the Uber Boat at any of the docks (there’s one right at the London Eye) and cruise along the water. Hop off at any station and you’ll be ready for your final meal in London.

Alternatively, you can take a Thames cruise ticket package along with your London Eye ticket to get two attractions for a lower price.

End your day with a glass of bubbly (or a pint) at a lovely waterside restaurant or pub.

My Favourite Riverside Restaurants:

Tavolino Bar at Kitchen near Tower Bridge
The Coal Shed at One Tower Bridge
Legare at Shad Thames (a cool area you should explore anyway)

Favourite Riverside Pubs

The Old Thameside Inn
Anchor Bankside
Tattershall Castle (on a former riverboat!)

Four Days in London: Day Three

An illustrative schedule for day 3 of a 'four days in London' itinerary. The image features a bright blue background with 'day 3' written in large, cursive, white text. The day is divided into three parts with corresponding weather icons: a sun with clouds for morning, a bright sun for afternoon, and a moon with clouds for evening. Morning activities include visiting 'The British Museum', afternoon plans suggest 'Oxford Street Afternoon Tea', and the evening is reserved for 'Explore the West End' and 'West End Theatre Show'. Banners of the UK flag stretch across the top corners of the image, adding a festive touch to the itinerary.

On your third day in London, we’ll start off with the most well-known museum in the city.

1. The British Museum

This split-image illustrates two popular destinations on a 'itinerary for London in 4 days'. On the left is the British Museum's Great Court with its iconic tessellated glass roof and circular Reading Room at the center, filled with visitors. The image on the right depicts a bustling Oxford Street, lined with British flags and showcasing London's vibrant street life, including the famous red double-decker buses and the classic black cabs. The images are framed with 'British Museum & Shopping on Oxford Street' in flowing cursive script.

Free (you may wish to book your free ticket ahead on bank holidays and in the summer for guaranteed entry)
Open daily 10am-5pm

Few museums are as well-known worldwide as the British Museum. It contains artefacts from all over the globe, including the Rosetta Stone, the “Unlucky Mummy,” sculptures from the Parthenon, and a statue from Easter Island.

Plan for at least 2 hours for a quick perusal, or more if you want to see everything in detail.

2. Shopping on Oxford Street

If you’ve had enough of history, let’s go to the present…and buy some presents.

Oxford Street is the most well-known shopping area in London, but it’s not only that one street.

The surrounding streets of Regent Street, Savile Row, Carnaby Street and more all have great shops, restaurants and department stores.

Don’t miss Liberty (a quintessentially British high-end department store) and Hamleys – one of the largest toy stores in the world, fun for all ages.

See my complete guide to shopping on Oxford Street to learn more.

3. Afternoon Tea

An engaging split-image that captures the essence of an afternoon on day three of a '4 days in London' itinerary. On the left, a delectable array of afternoon tea treats is displayed, featuring red velvet cakes topped with chocolate and fresh raspberries, elegantly presented on golden trays. To the right, a scene from London's West End shows a cobbled street lined with red bollards, with shops and buildings adorned with hanging flower baskets under a clear blue sky. The text 'afternoon tea & exploring the West End' spans across the top in bold, cursive white lettering against a blue backdrop, with a cheerful sun illustration adding to the ambiance.

Usually offered from noon-5pm (hours vary per location)
Tea rooms, hotels, cafes, etc.

Instead of lunch, now is a good time to experience a traditional afternoon tea.

Afternoon tea is a quintessentially British experience, and there’s no better place to partake than in a London tea room.

Everywhere from posh hotels to tiny cafes offer afternoon tea. It usually consists of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, a selection of sweets, and unlimited tea (or sometimes coffee).

For the fancier places, you must book ahead. Several museums and smaller cafes offer afternoon teas you don’t need to book ahead.

See my complete guide to afternoon tea in London to find the spot that’s within your budget.

4. Explore Covent Garden, Soho & Chinatown

It’s time to explore some of the coolest neighbourhoods in London.

Covent Garden is a vibrant shopping district in the heart of the West End. Here you’ll find everything from high street standards to unique boutiques to food halls to gelato.

Don’t miss the Covent Garden Market buildings that have handmade goods sold by the creators themselves. Find antiques, unique jewellery, souvenirs, artisan foods, and much more.

Soho is a historic district with lively bars and pubs, alongside posh boutiques and shops. If you’re an LGBTQIA+ traveller, it’s an unmissable spot.

Chinatown is a vibrant area packed with restaurants, bakeries and shops to eat in and explore.

For dinner, I’d recommend perusing the offerings in Chinatown, hit up the new (delicious) food hall Seven Dials Market, or try The Palomar for a delicious Mediterranean-inspired pre-theatre meal.

5. West End Show

This image showcases the allure of London's West End theatre district, a must-visit on a 'London 4 day itinerary'. On the left, the exterior of a West End theatre is lit up in the evening, with neon signs and people queueing at the entrance, reflecting the vibrant nightlife of the area. On the right is an inviting glimpse inside a theatre, with an elegant wooden door opening into a corridor adorned with rich red wallpaper, leading the way to the auditorium. The words 'West End Theatre' are featured prominently in a stylish script against a twilight sky with clouds and a crescent moon icon, emphasizing the magical experience of attending a performance.

Use Today Tix to get last-minute theatre tickets OR
Book ahead using the theatre’s website

Let’s visit the theatre in one of London’s renowned old, ornate buildings.

If you’re into musicals, my recent favourites are Six, Mean Girls, Tina, Hamilton, and Hadestown.

If you prefer plays, huge celebrities are often on stage in the West End. Check out what’s on during your trip, and remember to book ahead for these.

If the show has a very big name, it usually sells out months in advance.

London 4 Day Itinerary: Day Four

A bright and colorful image detailing the itinerary for day 4 of a '4 days in London' trip. The day is divided into three segments against a blue background, with 'day 4' written in large, cursive, white text. For the morning, the agenda includes the 'Big 3' museums and the Churchill War Rooms, symbolized by sun and cloud icon. The afternoon is for shopping at Harrods, visiting Kensington Palace, and exploring Notting Hill, indicated by a bright sun icon. The evening plan is to visit Little Venice and enjoy a canalside dinner, illustrated by a crescent moon with clouds.

It’s your last day in London, and today you’ll see some of the more charming areas.

1. The Big Three Museums or Churchill War Rooms

Collage image representing a museum-themed morning on day four of a London itinerary. On the left, the grand interior of the Natural History Museum with its elaborate Victorian architecture, showing the main hall with a large staircase and arched ceilings. To the right is the bright and spacious gallery of the British Museum with its white, curved ceiling and visitors observing the historical artifacts on display. Both photos underscore the cultural richness available in London. At the top center, the word 'museum' is scripted in large cursive, white letters against a blue background with a whimsical illustration of a sun partially covered by clouds.

The “Big Three” Museums

Free
No booking required, though during peak summer it may be a good idea to guarantee entry.

The “Big Three” Museums: The Victoria & Albert Museum, The Natural History Museum, and the Science Museum are all right next to each other in South Kensington.

Each has its own features and charms, so pick whichever one you’re most interested in.

For children, I’d recommend the Natural History Museum or the Science Museum.

For art and design lovers, try the V&A.

For history, zoology and the natural world, the Natural History Museum is incredible.

Churchill War Rooms

Adults from £32, children from £16
Book Ahead

If you’re a history buff, you may want to skip the “Big 3” and head straight to the Churchill War Rooms.

See the very underground bunkers where Churchill and his staff ran WWII. Explore the caverns, hidden tunnels, original artefacts, and so much more in this intimate place.

Tickets sell out quickly during peak times; it’s best to book ahead.

3. Harrods

This captivating split-image showcases two quintessential London experiences for day four of a 'four days in London' itinerary. On the left, the opulent façade of Harrods department store is adorned with an elaborate golden display, featuring the Christian Dior name and Union Jack motifs, with the intricate architecture of the building adding to the luxurious atmosphere. On the right, the serene Kensington Palace is pictured with its classic red brick structure, set amid vibrant and meticulously maintained gardens with blooming flowers and ornamental ponds. The words 'Harrods & Kensington Palace' stretch across the image in elegant, cursive white lettering against a blue sky.

Free to enter
Open daily from 10am

London’s most iconic and well-known department store is nearby South Kensington in Knightsbridge.

Inside you can browse from everything to designer clothing to London souvenirs to delicious baked goods.

Take home one of those iconic green bags and all your friends will be jealous.

4. Kensington Palace

Adults from £24, children from £12
Open Wednesday through Sunday, 10am-6pm

Unlike Buckingham Palace, the home of Kate & Will is open pretty much year round for tours.

This palace is known for its lush Sunken Gardens (which were Diana’s favourite), its changing exhibitions, and the ornately decorated apartments.

5. Notting Hill

This vibrant image is a tale of two quintessentially London locales for a 'four days in London' itinerary. On the left is the charming neighborhood of Notting Hill, showcasing a row of brightly colored townhouses in a rainbow of red, yellow, blue, and green hues, under a cloudy sky with a crescent moon. On the right, the tranquil canal area known as Little Venice is depicted at night, with the calm water reflecting the lights from the moored houseboats and the tree-lined path, creating a peaceful evening scene. The text 'Notting Hill & Little Venice' stretches gracefully across the top in a flowing cursive script.

You may know it from the movie, and yes, it looks like that in real life.

Explore this posh neighbourhood’s pastel hued houses, buzzing Portobello Road Market, kitschy antique offerings and lovely restaurants and cafes.

6. Hyde Park or Little Venice

Let’s spend a bit of time in a park before grabbing dinner.

Hyde Park is the most well-known Royal Park. The Serpentine River runs through it, making for lovely waterside views. Explore the pergolas, bridges, art galleries and cafes, or just stroll through the beautiful greenery.

Little Venice is so-called because of its resemblance to the sinking city. It’s an oasis of waterside calm and tranquillity, dotted with houseboats, canal boats, cafes, and walking paths.

7. Dinner in Mayfair

Let’s cap off your last day in London with a posh celebratory dinner in Mayfair.

This is one of London’s most expensive neighbourhoods, and you can pretend you’re living the posh life by eating at one of its famous restaurants.

Try Corrigans for classic British, The Colony Grill Room for a steak, or 34 Mayfair for a posh bottle of bubbly in a serene & sleek setting.

Itinerary for London in 4 Days: Alternatives

Informative image outlining alternative activities for a '4 days in London' itinerary. The left side lists day trip suggestions, including 'Harry Potter Studios,' 'Windsor Castle,' 'Hampton Court Palace,' 'Bath,' 'Oxford,' and 'Cambridge,' accompanied by an illustration of a modern blue and gray train, suggesting travel. The right side proposes different experiences, such as 'Jack the Ripper Tour,' 'London Dungeons,' 'London Bridge Experience,' 'Historic Pub Tours,' and 'Culinary Tours,' alongside a diverse group of illustrated people engaging in various tourist activities like taking photos, reading a map, and holding a guide flag.

If you’re not super into museums or some of the other attractions on this list, you can rearrange this itinerary to include a day trip.

Some of the most popular are:

Harry Potter Studios (book well ahead) – 1-1.5 hours from London
Windsor Castle – 1 hour from London
Hampton Court Palace – 1 hour from London
Bath – 1.5 hours from London
Oxford – 1 hour from London
Cambridge – 1 hour from London (in the summer, I highly recommend Cambridge)

There are also several experiences you can substitute for museums or historic spots. If you want a bit more interactive experience in the Capital, you have endless possibilities.

I’d recommend:

A Jack the Ripper Tour (usually begin at 7pm)
The London Dungeons
The London Bridge Experience
Historic Pub Tours
Culinary tours

Final Tips

Remember that London will require a lot of walking, even if you’re using public transport.

If you have mobility issues, you likely won’t be able to do everything on this list. Even if you’re able-bodied, take it easy and don’t overdo it.

I know it’s tempting to try to see everything all at once, but London is massive and it’s exhausting. Try to relax, enjoy, and remember: the best part of London is just being here and experiencing it, no matter what you’re seeing.

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