What to do in One Week in London, England – Travel Guide and Tips

Travel guide for one week in London, with tips on how to get there, accommodation, tourist attractions, guided tours, where to eat and practical information.

London is a famous and popular city known for its rich history, lively culture, and numerous attractions. If you have a week to spend in London, England, you might be wondering how to make the most of your time and see the best of the city.

From iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace to cultural spots like the Tate Modern, and historical sites like the Tower of London, planning your itinerary can help you explore the diverse charm of London in just one week. Don’t forget to stroll through different neighborhoods, try local cuisine, and soak in the unique atmosphere for a memorable experience in this vibrant metropolis.

Best Travel Posts to Visit London, England

We have some posts that can help your planning, be sure to read:

• London Changing of The Guard Experience
• How to visit the Chelsea Football Club Stadium and Museum Tour
• Exploring London from Above: Climbing The O2 Arena’s Roof
• Best Tips for Visiting the London Eye in England – Travel Guide
• Natural History Museum in London, England – Complete Visit Guide
• Peppa Pig World Park from London, England – Travel Tips & Guide

Now, how to explore London in 7 days! Experiencing tis rich history, vibrant culture, iconic landmarks. Lets plan your itinerary for a memorable experience in this vibrant city.

A Brief History of London, England

London is the capital and largest city of England and the United Kingdom. It has a history that dates back to Roman times, when it was founded as Londinium on the banks of the River Thames. Since then, London has witnessed many events and changes that shaped its identity and influence. Some of the most notable ones are:

• The Norman conquest of 1066, when William the Conqueror built the Tower of London and Westminster Abbey
• The Great Fire of 1666, which destroyed most of the medieval city and gave way to a new architecture
• The Industrial Revolution, which transformed London into a global trade and financial center
• The World Wars, which caused significant damage and loss of life, but also inspired resilience and recovery
• The post-war immigration, which made London a multicultural and diverse city
• The modern developments, such as the London Eye, the Shard and the Olympic Games

Today, London is a world-class city that attracts millions of visitors every year. It offers a variety of attractions, from historical landmarks to modern art galleries, from royal palaces to trendy markets, from iconic museums to lively pubs.

Where is London, England and How To Get There

London is located in the southeast of England, on the River Thames. It covers an area of about 1,572 square kilometers (607 square miles) and has a population of about 9 million people. It is divided into 32 boroughs and the City of London, which is the historic core and financial district.

There are many ways to get to London, depending on where you are coming from. Some of the most common ones are:

• By plane: London has six major airports: Heathrow (LHR), Gatwick (LGW), Stansted (STN), Luton (LTN), City (LCY) and Southend (SEN). They are connected to the city center by various means of transport, such as trains, buses or taxis.
• By train: London has several main railway stations that connect it to other cities in the UK and Europe. Some of them are: King’s Cross St Pancras (for Eurostar services to Paris and Brussels), Euston (for Birmingham and Manchester), Paddington (for Oxford and Bristol), Waterloo (for Southampton and Portsmouth), Victoria (for Brighton and Gatwick Airport) and Liverpool Street (for Cambridge and Stansted Airport).
• By bus: London has two main bus stations: Victoria Coach Station and Golders Green. They offer cheap and frequent services to other destinations in the UK and Europe.
• By car: London is surrounded by several motorways that link it to other parts of the country. Some of them are: M25 (the orbital ring road), M1 (for Leeds and Edinburgh), M4 (for Cardiff and Swansea), M3 (for Southampton and Bournemouth) and M11 (for Cambridge). However, driving in London can be challenging due to traffic congestion, parking fees and environmental charges.

Services that can help with your transfer and visit:

• Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing-Tour
• Gatwick Airport: Central London Bus Transfer
• London: Express Train Transfer to/from Heathrow Airport
• Stansted Airport: Central London Bus Transfer

When to Visit London, England

The best time to visit London depends on your preferences and budget. Some people prefer the warmer and sunnier months of May to September, when the city is full of flowers, festivals and outdoor activities.

Others enjoy the colder and cozier months of October to April, when the city is decorated with lights, markets and ice rinks. No matter when you go, you can always find something interesting and fun to do in London.

Where to Stay in London, England

London is a huge city with many different areas and neighborhoods to choose from. Depending on your interests and budget, you can find a variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels and resorts to budget hostels and bed & breakfasts. Here are some of the best areas to stay in London for a week:

• Central London: This is the most convenient and expensive area to stay in London, as it is close to many of the main attractions, such as Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey and the London Eye. You can find many hotels, resorts and apartments here, as well as some hostels and bed & breakfasts.
• West End: This is the entertainment hub of London, where you can find many theatres, cinemas, restaurants, bars and clubs. It is also home to some of the most famous shopping streets, such as Oxford Street, Regent Street and Bond Street. You can find many hotels and resorts here, as well as some hostels and bed & breakfasts.
• South Bank: This is the cultural and artistic area of London, where you can find many museums, galleries, theatres and concert halls. It is also where you can enjoy some of the best views of the River Thames and the city skyline. You can find many hotels and resorts here, as well as some hostels and bed & breakfasts.
• East London: This is the trendy and hip area of London, where you can find many street art, markets, cafes, pubs and clubs. It is also where you can experience some of the most diverse and multicultural neighborhoods, such as Shoreditch, Brick Lane and Hackney. You can find many hotels and apartments here, as well as some hostels and bed & breakfasts.

We have a post detailing the best neighborhoods and regions to stay in London, with tips on hotels, hostels, and B&Bs. Read for more information:

• London, England – Best area to stay in a hotel or hostel

There are also some other accommodation options in hotels, hostels and inns, be sure to check them out at Booking.com page.

What to See and Do in One Week in London, England

Now that you have some tips and information for your one week in London, England, here are some suggestions on what to see and do during your stay.

• Day 1: Explore the West End. This is the heart of London’s entertainment district, where you can find some of the best theatres, cinemas, shops, and restaurants in the city. You can catch a show at one of the many theatres, such as The Lion King, Les Miserables, or Wicked. You can also shop till you drop at Oxford Street, Regent Street, or Carnaby Street. And don’t forget to visit Piccadilly Circus, Leicester Square, and Trafalgar Square.
• Day 2: Visit Westminster. This is where you can find some of the most iconic landmarks in London, such as Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Bridge. You can also take a tour of Buckingham Palace , where you can see the state rooms and the royal collection. And if you have time, you can also visit St Paul’s Cathedral, where you can admire the architecture and climb up to the dome.
  • Westminster to Greenwich River Thames Cruise

Experience the Changing of The Guard – Get closer to the world-famous Changing of the Guard ceremony in London on a private or small-group tour led by a local. Discover the significance behind one of the most iconic British traditions.

• Day 3: Enjoy South Bank. This is a lively area along the River Thames that offers a variety of attractions and activities for all ages. You can ride the London Eye (if it is open), which is a giant ferris wheel that gives you a panoramic view of the city. You can also visit The Shard (if it is open), which is the tallest building in Western Europe that has an observation deck and a restaurant. And if you are feeling adventurous, you can also try The Slide (if it is open), which is a 178-meter-long slide that goes down from the top of The Orbit tower.
  • Buy The London Eye: Entry Ticket

• Day 4: Discover Camden Town. This is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood that has a lot of character and charm. You can explore the famous Camden Market (if it is open), which is a huge and diverse market that sells everything from clothes and accessories to food and antiques. You can also enjoy the live music and nightlife at one of the many pubs, clubs, and venues in the area. And if you are a fan of Amy Winehouse, you can also visit her statue and mural in Camden Town.
• Day 5: Experience Greenwich. This is a historic and scenic area that has a lot of cultural and scientific significance. You can visit the Royal Observatory (if it is open), which is where you can see the Prime Meridian, the Greenwich Mean Time, and the Planetarium. You can also visit the Cutty Sark (if it is open), which is a 19th-century clipper ship that has been restored and turned into a museum. And if you are feeling adventurous, you can also take the Emirates Air Line (if it is open), which is a cable car that crosses the River Thames and gives you a stunning view of the city.

Natural History Museum Entry Ticket and Guided Tour – Get the most out of your visit to the London Natural History Museum on a guided tour with pre-reserved entry tickets. Journey through the wonders of the natural world from volcanoes to earthquakes.

• Day 6: Relax in Hampstead Heath. This is a large and beautiful park that offers a natural escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can enjoy the greenery, the wildlife, and the views of London from the park. You can also swim in one of the ponds or lidos (if they are open), which are natural or artificial pools that are open to the public. And if you are feeling adventurous, you can also climb up to Parliament Hill, which is a hill that offers a panoramic view of London.
• Day 7: See Harry Potter. If you are a fan of Harry Potter, you can’t miss the opportunity to see some of the places and things that inspired or featured in the books and movies. You can take a tour of Warner Bros Studio (if it is open), which is where you can see the sets, props, and costumes from the movies. You can also visit Platform 9 3/4 at King’s Cross Station, which is where you can take a photo with a luggage trolley that looks like it is going through the wall. And if you have time, you can also visit some of the other locations that were used in the movies, such as Leadenhall Market, Millennium Bridge, or London Zoo.

Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour – Learn behind-the-scenes secrets of making the “Harry Potter” series on a visit to the Warner Bros. Studio. See the whimsical sets, props, and costumes used in the film.

Top 10 attractions of London, England

If you want to see the best of London in one week, you can’t miss these 10 attractions:

• The Tower of London: This is one of the oldest and most famous buildings in London. It was a royal palace, a prison, a fortress, and a place of execution. You can see the Crown Jewels, the Beefeaters, and the ravens here.
• The London Eye: This is a giant Ferris wheel that offers stunning views of the city skyline. You can see up to 40 km on a clear day. It takes 30 minutes to complete a rotation.
  • The London Eye: Entry Ticket
• The British Museum: This is one of the largest and most visited museums in the world. It has over 8 million objects from all continents and eras. You can see ancient Egyptian mummies, Greek sculptures, Chinese ceramics, and more.
• The National Gallery: This is one of the finest art galleries in the world. It has over 2,300 paintings from the 13th to the 19th century. You can see works by Leonardo da Vinci, Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, and more.
• The Tate Modern: This is a modern art gallery that showcases contemporary and international art. It is housed in a former power station on the banks of the Thames. You can see works by Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, Salvador Dali, and more.
• Westminster Abbey: This is a Gothic church that is the site of coronations, weddings, and funerals of British monarchs. It is also a burial place of many famous people, such as Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, William Shakespeare, and Winston Churchill.
• Buckingham Palace: This is the official residence of Queen Elizabeth II and the headquarters of the British monarchy. You can see the Changing of the Guard ceremony every day at 11 am. You can also visit some of the state rooms during summer.
• Big Ben: This is the nickname of the clock tower at the Houses of Parliament. It is one of the most recognizable symbols of London. It chimes every hour and has four faces.
  • Westminster Abbey, Big Ben & Buckingham Palace Tour
• Tower Bridge: This is a Victorian bridge that crosses the Thames near the Tower of London. It is a drawbridge that opens to allow ships to pass through. It has two towers that house a museum and an exhibition.
  • Tower Bridge Entry Ticket
• The London Dungeon: This is a horror attraction that recreates some of the darkest moments in London’s history. You can experience live actors, special effects, and rides that will scare you.
  • Entry Ticket to London Dungeon

Explore the best deals and offers on ticket purchase options for tourist attractions and guided tours in London.

Where to eat in London – Tips for bars and restaurants

London is a foodie’s paradise, with a variety of cuisines, styles, and prices. Here are some tips for where to eat in London:

• For breakfast, try a traditional English breakfast with eggs, bacon, sausage, beans, toast, and tea. You can find it in many pubs, cafes, and hotels. Or try a continental breakfast with croissants, jam, cheese, and coffee. You can find it in many bakeries, delis, and coffee shops.
• For lunch, try a sandwich, a salad, or a soup. You can find them in many chains, such as Pret a Manger, EAT, or Greggs. Or try a pie, a pasty, or a fish and chips. You can find them in many pubs, stalls, or chippies.
• For dinner, try a curry, a pizza, or a burger. You can find them in many restaurants, such as Dishoom, Franco Manca, or Honest Burgers. Or try a roast, a steak, or a seafood platter. You can find them in many gastropubs, steakhouses, or seafood restaurants.
• For drinks, try a pint of beer, a glass of wine, or a cocktail. You can find them in many pubs, bars, or clubs. Or try a cup of tea, a latte, or a hot chocolate. You can find them in many tea rooms, cafes, or chocolatiers.

London: Afternoon Tea Cruise on the River Thames – Indulge in one of England’s best traditions and enjoy a 1.5-hour Afternoon Tea cruise along the River Thames. See some of the city’s most historic buildings, while enjoying a pot of tea, served alongside a selection of delicate sandwiches and cakes.

Key Tips and Practical Information for One Week in London, England

Before you pack your bags and hop on a plane, here are some things you should know and do to prepare for your one week in London, England.

• Spend yours pounds. The currency is the British pound sterling (GBP). You can exchange money at the airport, banks, or ATMs. You can also use credit or debit cards, but check with your bank for fees and exchange rates.
• Speak English. The official language is English, but you will hear many other languages spoken by the diverse population. You can also find signs and information in other languages at tourist attractions and public transport.
• Check the weather. London is known for its unpredictable and often rainy weather, so make sure you pack accordingly. Bring a raincoat, an umbrella, and some warm layers. You can also check the forecast before you go and adjust your plans accordingly.
• Get an Oyster card. This is a smart card that you can use to pay for public transport in London, such as the Tube, buses, trams, and trains. It is cheaper and more convenient than buying single tickets or paper travelcards. You can buy an Oyster card online, at a station, or at a shop. You can also top it up online or at a machine. You can use it to travel within zones 1 to 6, which cover most of the attractions in London.
• Plan your itinerary. London has so much to offer that it can be overwhelming to decide what to see and do. To make the most of your one week in London, England, you should plan ahead and prioritize the things that interest you the most. You can use online guides, blogs, or apps to help you find the best attractions, tours, and activities for your budget and preferences. You can also book tickets online to save time and money.
• Enjoy the free attractions. London is not a cheap city, but there are many ways to save money and still have fun. One of them is to visit the free attractions that London has to offer. These include some of the world’s best museums, such as the British Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the Tate Modern. You can also enjoy the beautiful parks, such as Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, and St James’s Park. And don’t forget to watch the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace, which happens every day at 11 am.
• Try the local food. London is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, so you will never run out of options when it comes to food. You can try the traditional British dishes, such as fish and chips, roast beef, and afternoon tea. You can also sample the diverse ethnic foods, such as Indian curry, Chinese dim sum, and Turkish kebab. And of course, you can’t miss the pub culture in London, where you can enjoy a pint of beer and a hearty meal.
• The safety in London is generally good, but you should still be careful and vigilant. You should avoid walking alone at night, keep your valuables close to you and beware of pickpockets and scams.
• The culture in London is diverse and friendly, but you should still be respectful and polite. You should greet people with a smile and say please and thank you. You should also tip around 10% to 15% at restaurants and bars.

General international travel tips

For general travel tips, be sure to check out:

• The best Travel Quotes to motivate your trip on an adventure!
• Tips for using Google Flights and buying the best airfare

Where to travel next?

Other posts beautiful destination:

• Complete travel guide to visit the Romantic Road in Germany 
• Berlin, Germany – Top 20 sights and things to do and visit
• Paris, France – Top 10 must-see sights and tourist attractions
• What to do in New York, USA – Trave Guide and tips
• Best travel tips for Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany