Are you planning a trip to London but wondering if 4 days is enough to explore the city? Well, the answer is subjective and depends on your preferences. However, with proper planning and time management, you can cover the major attractions and experience the essence of this vibrant city.
Day 1
If you arrive in London early in the morning, head straight to your hotel to freshen up and start your day by exploring one of London’s most iconic landmarks – The Tower of London. This historic castle was built in the 11th century and has served as a palace, prison, and treasury.
Don’t miss the Crown Jewels exhibition which showcases some of the most valuable jewels in the world.
Afterward, take a stroll across Tower Bridge to get stunning views of River Thames and The Shard – Western Europe’s tallest building. You can even visit The View from The Shard for panoramic views of London.
In the evening, head to Covent Garden for some shopping or catch a West End show at one of London’s many theaters such as Apollo Victoria or Lyceum Theatre.
Day 2
Start your day by visiting another iconic landmark – Buckingham Palace. Watch Changing of Guard ceremony which takes place at 11 am daily during summer months (April-July) and every other day during winter months (August-March).
Next, head to Westminster Abbey – a Gothic church that has hosted coronations and royal weddings for centuries. You can also visit Big Ben (currently under renovation until 2021) and Parliament Square nearby.
In the afternoon, take a stroll through St James’s Park or Green Park before heading to British Museum – one of world’s largest museums with over 8 million artifacts including Egyptian mummies, Greek sculptures, and Rosetta Stone.
Day 3
On your third day, explore some of London’s charming neighborhoods. Start with Notting Hill – a colorful area famous for its pastel-colored houses and the annual Notting Hill Carnival.
You can also visit Portobello Road Market for vintage clothing, antiques, and street food.
Next, head to Camden Town – a vibrant area known for its alternative music scene and street art. You can visit Camden Market for quirky shops, food stalls, and live music.
In the evening, head to Shoreditch – a trendy neighborhood filled with galleries, restaurants, and bars. You can also visit Brick Lane for Indian food or see street art on nearby streets.
Day 4
On your final day in London, take a trip outside the city center to see some of London’s hidden gems. Start with Kew Gardens – a UNESCO World Heritage site that has over 50,000 plants from around the world including rare orchids and giant water lilies.
Next, head to Greenwich – a historic area that is home to Royal Observatory (where you can stand on the Prime Meridian), National Maritime Museum, and Cutty Sark – a 19th-century ship turned museum.
In the evening, head back to central London to experience nightlife in Soho or Mayfair – two of London’s most upscale neighborhoods filled with bars and clubs.
In conclusion,
Four days in London may not be enough to see everything this city has to offer but it is certainly enough time to get a taste of what makes this city so special. With proper planning and time management, you can create an itinerary that suits your interests and preferences while experiencing some of the iconic landmarks and hidden gems that make London one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.