London is one of those cities that could take a lifetime to explore. But if you have five days, you’ll have enough time to see its most iconic landmarks, dive into cultural experiences, and even enjoy day trips beyond the capital.

This guide lays out a 5-day London itinerary for 2025, designed for first-time visitors who want the perfect balance of sightseeing, history, entertainment, and leisure. Already short on time? Start with our 1 Day in London Itinerary. If you’ve got a little more flexibility, see our 3 Days in London Itinerary.

Day 1: Classic London Icons

Your first day is about orientation — seeing the essential landmarks.

• Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament
• Westminster Abbey
• Buckingham Palace & Changing of the Guard
• Tower of London & Tower Bridge
• Evening Thames River Cruise and Covent Garden

Tour suggestion:London in One Day Tour with Changing of the Guard.

Day 2: Royal and Cultural Highlights

Continue with royal London and museums that define the city’s heritage.

• St. James’s Park and the Mall
• Kensington Palace & Hyde Park
• Victoria & Albert Museum or the British Museum
• National Gallery at Trafalgar Square
• Evening in Soho or West End theatre show

Tour suggestion:Royal Westminster – Seat of Monarchy Tour.

Day 3: The Magic of Harry Potter and Covent Garden

Day three is perfect for fans and families who want a touch of fantasy.

• Morning: Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter.
• Afternoon: Harry Potter Film Locations Walking Tour.
• Evening: Covent Garden for dinner and street performances, or the All the World’s a Stage – Theatreland and Covent Garden Tour.

Day 4: Hidden Gems and Quirky Experiences

After the big attractions, discover the less obvious side of London.

• Explore Borough Market for food culture
• Walk the South Bank for street art and skyline views
• Visit the Churchill War Rooms or the Household Cavalry Museum
• Take the Secrets of the London Underground Walking Tour
• Evening: Join the Jack the Ripper Haunted London Tour for a chilling end to the day

Day 5: Day Trips from London

Round off your trip with a full-day excursion beyond the city.

Options:

• Stonehenge Express — short and focused.
• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Bath — castles, history, and Georgian charm.
• Warwick Castle, Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Oxford and the Cotswolds — literary and medieval England.

Travel Tips for a 5-Day London Stay

• Transfers: Book car transfers or the hotel e-shuttle to save time.
• Connectivity: Pick up a UK SIM card to navigate easily and book tickets online.
• Passes: Multi-day stays benefit from the London Explorer Pass.
• Pacing: Spread out your itinerary. Mix landmark-heavy days with more relaxed ones.

Conclusion

Five days in London gives you the best of both worlds — the famous highlights, cultural depth, hidden corners, and even adventures outside the city.

This itinerary is the perfect companion to our 1 Day in London Itinerary and 3 Days in London Itinerary. Whether you’re a first-timer or returning for a longer stay, this plan ensures you’ll leave London with memories that last a lifetime.