Discover our complete guide for a perfect week in London: iconic attractions, restaurants, museums, and unique nights out. Explore the best of the city with original ideas and practical tips, whether you’re passionate about history, art, shopping, or looking for unusual experiences!
A week’s holiday in London? That’s a great idea! After all, why settle for just a weekend in the British capital when you can spend seven days there? The only downside is finding things to do. But in a city as vibrant as London, that shouldn’t be a problem.
Feeling uninspired? Okay, we’ll be nice and share our one-week London itinerary with you. Breathtaking views of London, burlesque nights or Mamma Mia, incredible street food markets, and other must-see attractions—discover right now what your stay in the UK has in store. Remember, this itinerary isn’t set in stone (and thankfully so, because your feet might get sore)! Use it for inspiration, remix it to suit your own style, and share your memories with us using #GoCity.
Visiting London Day 1: Explore Central London
Since you’ve just arrived in London, we’ll start by introducing you to some of the classics of central London, with a few surprises in store! And if you ever doubted that this article was about London, just read the names of some of the tourist attractions from this first day to be sure… (we didn’t do it on purpose, we promise).
Morning: The Tower of London and Tower Bridge
Everyone has heard of the Tower of London , so much so, in fact, that it was voted one of the top 10 must-see attractions in France. But what exactly is the Tower of London? It’s a fortress located on the banks of the Thames that was once a prison where most of the prisoners were executed . It’s a fantastic historical visit if you want to learn more about London’s history.
If you don’t want to start your trip with stories of executions (which is totally understandable), you can also visit Tower Bridge . Start by taking a selfie in front of it, just to let your friends know you’re “in London, baby.” You can then go inside and walk across the glass walkway, 42 meters above the ground , visit the Victorian-era engine rooms, and learn about the monument’s history with an audio guide in French .
Expert tip: for these two attractions, thanks to Go City passes , you do n’t need to book your tickets in advance, just present your pass at the ticket office!
LUNCH IDEA: If you end your morning at Tower Bridge, it’s just a 15-minute walk to Borough Market. Open every day except Monday, Borough Market is a true London institution, offering stalls serving specialties from all over the world and plenty of delicious options, often for under £10 .
Afternoon: the Tate Modern or London Bridge
After a good meal, we offer you two different activities, one calm and the other, well, you’ll see.
Want to discover London’s temple of contemporary art? Head to the Tate Modern . And what’s more, we’re really nice because, in addition to being just a 10-minute walk from Borough Market, admission to the museum is free . With its extraordinary permanent exhibitions, you’re guaranteed to spend the afternoon in awe.
If you’re like Omar Sy in The Intouchables and nosebleeds against a white background don’t impress you much, we have another activity to suggest: the London Bridge Experience . Part historical tour, part haunted house, one thing’s for sure: the experience won’t leave you unmoved.
Don’t believe us? Watch the video:
Evening: Sunset at the Sky Garden
To recover from your emotions, how about going for a drink with a view of all of London? Head to the Sky Garden , at the top of the Walkie-Talkie skyscraper (no, we’re not kidding… that’s how we say it in English).
The best part about the Sky Garden? You can go up for free from 10 am to 6 pm on weekdays and from 11 am to 9 pm on weekends! That’s right, all you have to do is book your tickets here . If you get hungry, you can also grab a bite to eat at one of its two restaurants. Otherwise, head downstairs to explore the neighborhood; it’s full of delicious places to eat!
Visiting London Day 2: Touring Historic London
We didn’t want to be too obvious by having you visit Buckingham Palace on the first day, but we’ll have to get on with it! So, for this second day in London, let’s head towards the historic center.
Morning: Buckingham Palace, Changing of the Guard and Royal Mews
Buckingham Palace, the changing of the guard and all that jazz, is it really worth going? Let’s just say it’s interesting to do at least once, especially if you’re on a week-long trip to London, you have the time.
Grab your coffee at the local Pain à Manger (you’ll understand when you arrive in London) and head to Buckingham Palace to watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which takes place at 11:00 AM on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. If you wish to visit Buckingham Palace, unfortunately, you’ll need to plan your trip to London for July, August, or September, the only months the palace is open to the public.
However, if you still wish to visit, please note that the Royal Mews are open from February to October, Thursday to Monday. You will then be able to discover the most beautiful stables in the world, home to Windsor Greys and Cleveland Bays, as well as an amazing collection of royal carriages and coaches.
LUNCH IDEA: You won’t feel like you’re in the UK until you’ve had proper fish and chips. Why not pop into The Laughing Halibut and try a good one? If you don’t like fish, don’t worry, they have plenty of other options!
Afternoon: Westminster Abbey and Thames River cruise
Once you’ve had your fill, head to a UNESCO World Heritage Site: Westminster Abbey . It’s one of the most important historical monuments in London, and indeed the entire country. The abbey has hosted numerous royal events throughout the ages, including coronations and weddings , no less!
Get yourself a free digital guide (available in French) and take a tour of Poets’ Corner, College Garden or Lady Chapel.
Next, head to the Thames for an Uber Boat tour . The dock is located right next to Big Ben. We don’t recommend visiting Big Ben because the number of places is extremely limited, but still, consider taking a photo with the world’s most famous clock in the background – it’s always a nice touch.
The Uber boat is more of a means of transport than a tourist attraction, but with your day ticket you can enjoy stunning views of all the London landmarks located along the Thames, and hop on and off whenever you like.
Evening: London Eye
If you decide to disembark where you boarded, you’ll find yourself in the perfect spot to board the London Eye . Whether with family or your loved one, head to the Ferris wheel at sunset for a panoramic view of the city lights. You’ll have a clear view of Big Ben directly opposite.
Expert tip : consider booking your ticket online in advance, as it will only cost you £25.50 compared to £33 on the day.
Visiting London Day 3: Museums and shopping
Clearly, this day is what you’d call a “mix and match.” Why? Because with no fewer than four suggested museums, you’ll have to make some choices. The good news is, there’s something for everyone, so have fun!
Morning: the British Museum (or elsewhere)
Good morning! We’re off for another fantastic day in London! This morning, we’re starting with a productive stop: the British Museum in Bloomsbury. This free museum , open to the public all year round except at Christmas, is one of the must-see attractions in London.
Between Greek antiquities, relics of ancient Egypt, and archaeological wonders of the Near East , you’ll travel the world and journey through the ages on this unique visit. Of course, we suggest spending the morning there, but be aware that you could easily lose yourself for much longer! Just be careful not to get locked in for the night… Unless you’re Ben Stiller, the cursed Egyptian tablets and key-stealing monkeys might give you a run for your money.
If the British Museum doesn’t appeal to you, you could also visit the Charles Dickens Museum , dedicated to this giant of English literature, author of Oliver Twist and David Copperfield, somewhat the British equivalent of our Honoré de Balzac. Alternatively, you’ll also find the Postal Museum nearby, devoted to the history of the English postal service; it’s a museum as surprising as it is fascinating (there’s even a miniature train inside).
LUNCH IDEA: Fancy a hearty portion of fresh pasta for under £7? Then head to PaStation , less than a 10-minute walk from the British Museum. Alternatively, because we’re nice and also thinking of our poor friends with gluten intolerance, you can enjoy a great kebab (or other Greek specialties) for under £8 at Great Grill House (those Brits do like to use unusual capital letters in their restaurant names, don’t they?).
Afternoon: Trafalgar Square and Covent Garden
Another busy afternoon ahead! If you’re an art lover, we suggest a visit to the National Gallery , located in Trafalgar Square, in the heart of London. Entry is free, and you’ll find masterpieces by artists ranging from Van Gogh to Cézanne. While you’re in Trafalgar, take the time to climb to the top of the Great Fire of London monument . After ascending 311 steps, you’ll find yourself 61 meters high with a breathtaking view of London!
If you’ve visited enough museums for the day, we suggest you go for a walk instead. Since you’re already in the city center, several options are available. You could, for example, head to Oxford Street and Regent Street for an unlimited shopping spree !
You can also visit Chinatown and Soho, or simply head to Covent Garden . It’s also a great place for shopping and finding souvenirs. For example, you can buy English tea at Fortnum & Mason (the official supermarket supplier to the Royal Family) or find eclectic items at the Apple Market . However, don’t be disappointed; you’re more likely to find rotary phones there than the latest iPhone.
Evening show
The West End district, where Covent Garden is located, is also where you’ll find most of the city’s theatrical performances . The main problem for us poor French speakers is that they’re in English… Well, if you happen to speak English, take advantage of it to buy tickets and have an amazing evening.
Alternatively, we suggest a slightly risqué evening at the House of Burlesque . Of course, it’s not exactly family-friendly, but a speakeasy-style night can be a fantastic memory! Entry tickets start at £10, and you can even take a class if you like.
Visiting London Day 4: Exploring the Greenwich district
For this fourth day of your stay in London, let’s start with the basics. We know you’re really keen to read Green-Witche , but if you ask someone for directions to GreenWiTchE, even with your best (least bad?) accent, no one will understand you. Yes, it’s pronounced Greenitche . Hey, we can hear you complaining now, as if French were more logical. Do you want to remind us how you pronounce “eggs” or
“woman”?
Enough joking around, let’s go discover Green Itch.
Morning: Royal Observatory or Old Royal Naval College
This morning, we offer two distinct activities, depending on whether you want to have your head in space or your feet in the water!
First, explore the Royal Observatory Greenwich with your French audio guide, who will certainly pronounce all the English proper names correctly. You will have the chance to discover how the first telescope was made, to walk on the prime meridian , where the Eastern and Western hemispheres meet at 0° longitude, and to learn how the stars and seas were first mapped .
Second option: The Cutty Sark , the last surviving clipper ship from the tea trade era. It’s a fantastic visit for history buffs, as you’ll discover what life was like on board through superb multi-sensory exhibits that bring the ship to life . It’s one of the best places to visit during your trip to London.
Psst, if after all you don’t want to choose, consider ordering your Go City All Inclusive pass, it allows you to visit an unlimited number of attractions over a given period, saving you up to 50% on the price of your entrance tickets!
LUNCH IDEA: History works up an appetite, after all. For lunch, head to Greenwich Market where over 48 food stalls await! Open all week, you’ll find just about anything at a reasonable price. You can even buy handcrafted items to take home.
Afternoon: Go up to the O2
One of the best attractions in the area: going to the top of the O2 Arena . Clearly, those with a weak stomach should abstain, but if you have a strong stomach, this is an activity you’ll be talking about for a long time!
Secured by a harness, you’ll ascend to a height of 52 meters to enjoy panoramic views of the Canary Wharf district and the boats sailing on the Thames. The experience lasts 90 minutes but promises to provide memories for a lifetime!
Evening in Greenwich
For an evening out outside central London, check out TOCA Social Greenwich , also located in the O2 Arena. You’ll find all sorts of games there, from classic foosball and arcade games to those using the latest technology. Thirsty? No problem, as the venue has a bar and snacks available. Remember to wear sneakers and light clothing, because the competitive spirit is likely to catch up with you and you’ll work up a sweat!
Do you feel more like singing and dancing than acting? Book your tickets for Mamma Mia! The Party . What’s that? It’s simple: an immersive experience that transports you into the eponymous film, where you can belt out ABBA songs ! Honestly, this event alone is reason enough to come to London.
Visiting London Day 5: Palaces, parks and street food
Well, if you’re following our suggestions to the letter, we hope you’ve packed some walking shoes! Otherwise, perhaps it’s time to make good use of your Oyster Card , don’t you think?
Morning: Palace or museum?
Good morning! This morning, once again, the choice is yours! The first option: Kensington Palace . If you woke up feeling like royalty, come and discover the birthplace of Queen Victoria, which was home to young royals for over 300 years. If you have a passion for the British monarchy, this historic place is a must-see!
Are you more into dinosaurs than royalty? Spend the morning at the Natural History Museum in London! With over 80 million specimens and artifacts, the Natural History Museum is undoubtedly one of London’s most fascinating museums. Don’t miss the exceptional Dinosaur Gallery, complete with a Triceratops skull! Worried about getting lost? Pick up your free Natural History Museum souvenir guide , included with your Go City Pass.
Afternoon (and lunch): Notting Hill and Hyde Park
Are you familiar with the Notting Hill area ? Yes, the very same one from Notting Hill, with its colorful houses and, as you might have guessed, Hugh Grant’s bookstore, which obviously doesn’t belong to Hugh Grant and is actually a souvenir shop… we apologize for shattering your dreams.
So, for lunch, head to Portobello Road Market , one of London’s most famous. Besides finding all sorts of interesting souvenirs to take home, you’ll also find an excellent street food market . Open every day except Sunday, it’s the perfect place to stroll and enjoy the beautiful London weather.
Once you’ve finished shopping in Notting Hill, taken some lovely souvenir photos, and bought your lunch, head to Hyde Park to enjoy it . It’s one of the largest and most beautiful parks in the capital. You’ll find Marble Arch there, and in winter, it’s where the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland Christmas market takes place.
It’s cold outside and you’re more Grinch than Santa Claus? Take shelter at Frameless , an immersive exhibition where you can stroll through famous paintings by Van Gogh, Dali or Monet!
Evening: Pub and Live Music
Spending the day in Kensington and Notting Hill puts you just a stone’s throw from the Royal Albert Hall, home to some of the capital’s finest concerts. However, concert tickets can be pricey, so we suggest spending the evening in a traditional English pub with live music. Head to The Elgar Room Brasserie or return to the city center to Ain’t Nothin But The Blues Bar for a melodious evening accompanied by beer and salt and vinegar crisps (yum!).
For an extraordinary evening, keep an eye on The Lost Estate ‘s program , which often organizes incredible immersive events!
Visiting London Day 6: Camden and North London
You didn’t think we’d forget the most famous London district in France, did you! Yes indeed, today we’re heading to North London for a surprising visit, like Camden.
Psst, we’re not including it in the itinerary, but if you want to get a souvenir tattoo, this is probably the right place.
Morning: London Zoo
Did you know London has a zoo? Now you do! Located in Regent’s Park, London Zoo is home to over 20,000 animals of 750 species from around the world. Explore the different habitats, from the beach and penguin enclosure to the butterfly paradise, the lion enclosure, and the tiger territory.
Throughout the year, the zoo organizes themed events such as Halloween at the zoo or visits with Santa Claus. You can even book special experiences like a monkey encounter or a morning spent as a zookeeper caring for the giraffes (for an additional fee). Be sure to check the schedule of events before your visit to make the most of your time at the zoo.
Well, it’s definitely more family-oriented than the cabaret evening, we told you we’d make up for it!
Afternoon (and lunch): Camden Market and King’s Cross
Routes like these work up an appetite! Our solution? Camden Market! As you’ve probably gathered from reading this article, we’re all about family harmony. That’s why we’re suggesting places to eat where you don’t all have to order the same thing to eat together. Sushi, tacos, pizza, burgers, and even poke bowls—at Camden Market, you’ll find it all !
Then take some time to stroll through this vibrant London neighborhood and be sure to take photos of the oversized shop signs on Camden High Street. You could easily spend an afternoon wandering along the canal.
If you’re a Harry Potter fan but don’t have the time (or budget) to visit Universal Studios, it’s time for a quick detour to King’s Cross . Of course, if you’re coming from France on the Eurostar, you can start your journey there. Yes, the famous London station is indeed home to Platform 9 3/4 . Unfortunately, the Hogwarts Express only runs from there on September 1st. But you’ll surely find something to console yourself with at the Harry Potter shop , we trust you!
Evening: Sunset at Primrose Hill
If the weather permits (and your thighs aren’t too sore), buy some picnic supplies and a drink, then head to Primrose Hill . Be warned, it’s a bit of a climb, but it’s definitely worth it, as it’s one of the best spots in London to watch the sunset.
Visiting London Day 7: East London
It’s already the last day of your week in London and with the route you’ve just taken, you must be exhausted! For this last day, we’ll take it easy and head a little to the East of central London to blend in with the locals.
Morning: St. Paul’s Cathedral
Of course, if you know London, you’ve probably figured us out; we’re cheating a little because St. Paul’s Cathedral is more in the city center than in the East, but it’s our itinerary, so we do what we want. Besides, it’s only a 30-minute walk from our next destination, so we’re not going to overthink it!
In fact, we couldn’t let you leave London without showing you one of the most recognizable sites in the British capital . Start your visit to St. Paul’s Cathedral in the crypt where you’ll discover more than 2,000 memorials and effigies.
Then, it will be time to climb! You can access the nave to enjoy a spectacular view of the entire cathedral . Finally, end your visit at the dome, and it’s not just the size that matters, but in addition to being magnificent, it’s the second largest in the world.
Afternoon (and lunch): Brick Lane
Brick Lane is one of London’s coolest neighborhoods. If you’re there on a Sunday, for a change, we suggest enjoying the street food market for lunch! If you’re there any other day, why not try a proper English breakfast at Momlette ? Delicious and generous, we know you’ll love it.
As we said, today we’re taking it easy, so enjoy your afternoon exploring the neighborhood. Discover the impressive graffiti in Allen Garden , stock up on vintage vinyl at Flashback Records, hunt for bargains in the local thrift stores, or even have tea with cats at Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium .
One thing is certain in Brick Lane: you won’t be bored anytime soon!
Evening: a quick beer and that’s a wrap!
For this last evening, nothing too complicated, after almost a week in town, it’s time to sit down and order a good beer in one of the many bars in Brick Lane , such as The Truman Brewery for example.
Look at your photos with family or travel companions and take the time to appreciate everything you have just experienced.
Save money on your week in London with Go City
That concludes our ultimate guide for a week-long trip to London. We know, it was packed with sightseeing, but hey, that was the point, wasn’t it? In any case, we hope you enjoyed it and that you’ll find some inspiration to make your stay in the British capital truly memorable.
One last tip: to explore London without worrying about the cost, order your Go City Passes now! With entry to over 90 must-see tourist attractions and activities included (many of which we just mentioned), you’ll save up to 50% on entrance fees. And when you see the price of hotels in London, it’s definitely worth saving money wherever you can, isn’t it?
