First-Time London Itinerary

Experience London’s most iconic sights, neighbourhoods, and river views with this essential first-time itinerary. Perfect for visitors who want to see the city’s highlights in a single, well-planned route.

Iconic Landmarks

  • Big Ben & Westminster
  • Buckingham Palace
  • Trafalgar Square
  • St Paul’s Cathedral
  • London Eye views

River Thames Highlights

  • South Bank walk
  • Golden Jubilee Bridges
  • Thames river cruise
  • Views of Tower Bridge
  • Riverside cafés

Neighbourhoods to Explore

  • Covent Garden
  • Soho
  • South Bank
  • City of London
  • Westminster

Culture & History

  • British Museum
  • National Gallery
  • Tower of London
  • Shakespeare’s Globe
  • Historic churches & squares

Suggested Day Plan

  • Morning: Westminster → Big Ben → Buckingham Palace → St James’s Park
  • Late Morning: Trafalgar Square → National Gallery → Covent Garden
  • Lunch: Covent Garden restaurants or Seven Dials cafés
  • Afternoon: Walk to the Thames → London Eye → South Bank
  • Optional: Thames river cruise to Tower Bridge
  • Evening: Dinner in Soho or South Bank

Where to Eat

  • Covent Garden: Dishoom, Flat Iron, Seven Dials Market
  • South Bank: Wahaca, Skylon, food trucks & pop-ups
  • Soho: Bao, Kiln, Barrafina

How to Get Around

  • Tube: Westminster, Embankment, Charing Cross, Waterloo
  • Walking: Most of this itinerary is walkable
  • Bus: Frequent routes across central London
  • Boat: Thames Clippers for scenic travel

Best Time to Visit

  • Morning: Best for Westminster and Buckingham Palace
  • Afternoon: South Bank views and attractions
  • Evening: Soho dining and theatre options

Local Tips

  • Arrive early at Westminster to avoid crowds.
  • Book London Eye tickets in advance.
  • Use contactless payment for easy Tube travel.
  • Walk between Covent Garden, Soho, and the Thames.

Explore More London Itineraries

Find the perfect plan for your trip, from one-day highlights to themed adventures.

View All Itineraries

Scroll to Top