5-Day London Itinerary: Explore the Best of London with Estimated Daily Costs

London is a city where history meets modernity, offering an unbeatable mix of iconic landmarks, cultural treasures, buzzing neighborhoods, and delicious food. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for a deeper dive, this 5-day itinerary will help you experience the best of London without missing a beat — and with clear cost estimates to keep your budget on track.

Day 1: Classic London Landmarks & River Thames Walk

Morning: Buckingham Palace & St. James’s Park

Start your London adventure with a visit to Buckingham Palace, the Queen’s official London residence. Time your visit for the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony, usually at 11:00 AM (check dates beforehand). Stroll through the lush St. James’s Park next door for some fresh air and great photo ops.

• Cost: Free to watch Changing of the Guard and walk the park.

Late Morning: Westminster & Big Ben

Walk from the park to Westminster Abbey (optional entry fee, about £27) and marvel at Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament from outside. The nearby Parliament Square is a prime spot for photos.

• Cost: Free to see from outside; Westminster Abbey ticket £27 (optional).

Lunch: Borough Market

Take the Tube (Underground) to London Bridge and head to Borough Market, London’s famous food market. Try a variety of street food from British pies to international treats.

• Estimated meal cost: £10–£15 per person.

Afternoon: Tower of London

From Borough Market, it’s a short walk to the Tower of London. Dive into the city’s medieval history, see the Crown Jewels, and explore the fortress.

• Ticket cost: £30 (adult).

Evening: Thames River Walk & Tower Bridge

Stroll along the Thames River, taking in views of Tower Bridge lit up at night. For a special experience, consider a river cruise (£15–£20).

• Cost: Free walk; optional cruise £15–£20.

Daily Total Estimate:

• Food: £15

• Transport (Oyster card/day pass): £7

• Attractions: £30 (Tower of London) + optional £15 (river cruise)

• Approximate total: £52–£67

Day 2: Museums & Shopping in South Kensington and Knightsbridge

Morning: Natural History Museum & Victoria and Albert Museum

Head to South Kensington and spend the morning at two world-class museums. Both have free entry and offer incredible collections from dinosaurs to design.

• Cost: Free entry.

Lunch: Local Cafés or Food Halls

Grab lunch nearby at a local café or the museum cafés (sandwiches and pastries about £8–£12).

Afternoon: Harrods & Hyde Park

Take a short walk or Tube to Knightsbridge to visit Harrods, London’s luxury department store. Even if you don’t shop, the food halls and decor are worth a look. Afterwards, stroll through Hyde Park or rent a pedal boat on the Serpentine (£13 per half hour).

• Cost: Free to explore; pedal boat rental £13 (optional).

Evening: Dinner in Soho

Take the Tube to Soho, London’s nightlife and dining hub. Choose from budget-friendly pubs, trendy restaurants, or international cuisine.

• Estimated dinner cost: £15–£25 per person.

Daily Total Estimate:

• Food: £20 (lunch + dinner)

• Transport: £7

• Activities: Free museums + optional £13 pedal boat

• Approximate total: £27–£40

Day 3: The City & West End — Culture, History & Theatre

Morning: The British Museum

Start your day at the British Museum, home to the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies, and more. Admission is free, but donations are welcome.

• Cost: Free.

Lunch: Covent Garden

Head to Covent Garden for lunch and enjoy street performances. Grab food at one of the many cafes or food stalls.

• Estimated lunch cost: £10–£15.

Afternoon: St. Paul’s Cathedral

Visit St. Paul’s Cathedral (entry ticket around £22). Don’t miss climbing to the dome for panoramic views.

• Ticket cost: £22.

Evening: West End Theatre Show

End the day with a show in London’s West End. Tickets vary widely, but budget-friendly options can be found from £25 upwards, especially if you book in advance or look for last-minute deals.

• Estimated ticket cost: £25–£60.

Dinner: Pre- or post-show dining in Leicester Square or Chinatown.

• Dinner cost: £15–£25.

  
  

Daily Total Estimate:

• Food: £25–£40

• Transport: £7

• Attractions: £22 (St. Paul’s) + £25–£60 (theatre)

• Approximate total: £54–£109

Day 4: Markets, Neighborhoods & Views

Morning: Camden Market & Regent’s Canal

Explore Camden Market, known for its quirky shops and street food. Walk along Regent’s Canal afterward for a peaceful break.

• Cost: Free to explore; food £8–£12.

Lunch: Camden Market street food.

• Estimated cost: £8–£12.

Afternoon: The Shard or Sky Garden

Take in the views of London from above. The Shard’s ticket costs about £32, while the Sky Garden is free but requires advance booking.

• Cost: £0 (Sky Garden) or £32 (Shard).

Evening: Dinner & Drinks in Shoreditch

Shoreditch is perfect for trendy dining and nightlife. Plenty of affordable and hip options.

• Dinner cost: £15–£25.

Daily Total Estimate:

• Food: £20–£30

• Transport: £7

• Attraction: £0–£32

• Approximate total: £27–£69

Day 5: Royalty & Relaxation in Greenwich

Morning: Greenwich Park & Royal Observatory

Head to Greenwich by DLR or boat. Visit the Royal Observatory, stand on the Prime Meridian Line, and enjoy stunning views from Greenwich Park.

• Observatory ticket: £16

• Cost: Free park.

Lunch: Greenwich Market

Try diverse foods at Greenwich Market with many budget-friendly options.

• Estimated lunch cost: £10–£15.

Afternoon: Cutty Sark & Maritime Museum

Explore the Cutty Sark ship (£15 ticket) and the National Maritime Museum (free).

• Cost: £15.

Evening: Return to Central London for farewell dinner

Celebrate your last night with a classic British meal or international cuisine.

• Dinner cost: £20–£30.

Daily Total Estimate:

• Food: £30–£45

• Transport: £8 (including riverboat)

• Attractions: £31

• Approximate total: £69–£84

Additional Tips for Saving & Getting Around

• Transport: Buy an Oyster card or use contactless payment for discounted Tube and bus fares. A daily cap applies (~£7–£8).

• Attractions: Many museums are free. Book tickets online in advance to save money and skip lines.

• Eating: Markets, pubs, and street food offer delicious and affordable meals.

• Accommodation: Look for budget hotels or Airbnb outside Zone 1 but near Tube stations.

Summary of Estimated Daily Costs

Final Thoughts

London’s mix of history, culture, and modern flair means every day offers new adventures. This itinerary balances iconic sites with hidden gems, while keeping an eye on your budget. Whether you’re an art lover, foodie, or history buff, London delivers unforgettable experiences at every turn.

Ready to pack your bags and explore London? Bookmark this itinerary and start planning your trip today!