Family-Friendly 7-Day London Itinerary

Saturday, June 15: Exploring London's Iconic Landmarks

Start your trip by visiting Buckingham Palace in the morning, where you can witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony. Afterward, head to the nearby St. James's Park for a picnic and enjoy the serene surroundings. In the afternoon, take a stroll along the South Bank, where you'll find attractions like the London Eye and the Sea Life London Aquarium. Wrap up your day with a visit to Covent Garden, known for its street performers and vibrant atmosphere.

• Buckingham Palace: Entrance is free, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• St. James's Park: Entrance is free, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• South Bank: Free to explore, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Covent Garden: Free to explore, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, enjoy a traditional English meal at The Regency Café, known for its hearty portions and affordable prices. Average cost for a meal is about £8 per person.
• For lunch, try Wahaca Southbank, a Mexican street food restaurant with stunning views of the Thames River. Average cost for a meal is about £12 per person.
• For dinner, dine at Dishoom Covent Garden, offering delicious Indian cuisine in a retro Bombay-style setting. Average cost for a meal is about £20 per person.

Sunday, June 16: Discovering London's History and Culture

Start your day by visiting the Tower of London, where you can explore the historic fortress and see the Crown Jewels. In the afternoon, head to the British Museum to admire its vast collection of artifacts from around the world. End the day with a visit to the West End, where you can catch a family-friendly theater show.

• Tower of London: £30 (adult), £14.50 (child), estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• British Museum: Free admission, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• West End Theater Show: Prices vary, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours

Monday, June 17: Exploring Natural Beauty and Science

Start your day with a visit to the Natural History Museum, where you can discover fascinating exhibits on dinosaurs, animals, and more. In the afternoon, explore the Science Museum, which offers interactive displays and hands-on activities for all ages. End the day with a relaxing walk in Hyde Park.

• Natural History Museum: Free admission, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Science Museum: Free admission, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Hyde Park: Free to explore, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours

Tuesday, June 18: Exploring London's Neighborhoods

Start your day by visiting the Camden Market, a bustling market with unique shops and street food stalls. In the afternoon, head to Notting Hill, known for its colorful houses and the famous Portobello Road Market. End your day at the South Kensington neighborhood, where you can visit the Victoria and Albert Museum or enjoy a relaxing evening in one of the local parks.

• Camden Market: Free to explore, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Notting Hill: Free to explore, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• South Kensington: Free to explore, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours

Wednesday, June 19: Thames River Cruise and Greenwich

Start your day with a Thames River Cruise, where you can enjoy panoramic views of London's landmarks from the water. Disembark at Greenwich and explore the Royal Observatory, where you can stand on the Prime Meridian line. In the afternoon, visit the Cutty Sark, a historic sailing ship, and explore the Greenwich Market for unique crafts and delicious food.

• Thames River Cruise: £15-£20 (adult), £7-£10 (child), estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Royal Observatory: £16.50 (adult), £8.50 (child), estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Cutty Sark: £15 (adult), £7.50 (child), estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Greenwich Market: Free to explore, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours

Thursday, June 20: Family Fun at London's Parks

Start your day by visiting the Regent's Park, where you can explore Queen Mary's Gardens and enjoy a boat ride on the lake. In the afternoon, head to the ZSL London Zoo, located within the park, to encounter various animal species. End your day with a visit to the nearby Madame Tussauds, where you can take pictures with lifelike wax figures of celebrities.

• Regent's Park: Free to explore, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• ZSL London Zoo: £29.75 (adult), £22.75 (child), estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Madame Tussauds: £35 (adult), £30 (child), estimated time spent: 2-3 hours

Friday, June 21: Iconic River Views and Art

Start your day by taking a walk along the South Bank, enjoying the scenic views of the Thames River and iconic landmarks like the Tate Modern and Shakespeare's Globe. In the afternoon, visit the National Gallery, home to a vast collection of European paintings. End your day with a relaxing river cruise, where you can admire London's skyline from a different perspective.

• Tate Modern: Free admission, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Shakespeare's Globe: Guided tours from £17 (adult), £10.50 (child), estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• National Gallery: Free admission, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• River Cruise: £10-£20 (adult), £5-£10 (child), estimated time spent: 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the Horniman Museum and Gardens, which offers a unique mix of natural history, anthropology, and musical instruments. Another hidden gem is the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens, where children can enjoy a magical play area inspired by Peter Pan. Locals also love the KidZania London, an indoor city where kids can role-play various professions in a fun and educational environment.

To find the best hotel and flight prices for your trip to London, you can check here.