7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for London

Day 1: Exploring Central London

London, UK

8:00AM

Breakfast at Dishoom

Start your day with a delicious Indian-inspired breakfast at Dishoom, renowned for its signature bacon naan roll and chai.
Take the Tube to Covent Garden Station.
GBP10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the British Museum

Explore one of the world’s most famous museums, featuring artifacts from across the globe such as the Rosetta Stone.
Walk 10 minutes to the British Museum.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Borough Market

Savor the diverse food offerings at Borough Market, from artisanal sandwiches to delicious street food.
Take the Tube from Holborn to London Bridge.
GBP10, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Walk along the South Bank

Stroll along the scenic South Bank of the Thames, taking in views of iconic landmarks like the London Eye and Big Ben.
Walk from Borough Market to the South Bank.
Free, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Tate Modern

Visit the Tate Modern, where you can enjoy contemporary artworks in a former power station.
Walk along the South Bank to Tate Modern.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at Poppies Fish & Chips

Indulge in classic British cuisine at Poppies, known for its award-winning fish and chips.
Take the Tube from Southwark to Aldgate East.
GBP15, 1 hour

7:00PM

Evening at the Shoreditch Street Art

Admire vibrant street art in Shoreditch, where local artists showcase their creativity in cool urban settings.
Walk 10 minutes to the Shoreditch area.
Free, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Historical Landmarks

London, UK

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Breakfast Club

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at The Breakfast Club, famous for its pancakes and full English breakfast.
Take the Tube to Angel Station.
GBP12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Tower of London

Explore the historic Tower of London, home to the Crown Jewels and fascinating history.
Take the Tube to Tower Hill.
GBP29.90, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pizza Union

Grab a quick and affordable pizza at Pizza Union, known for its delicious, wood-fired pizzas.
Walk to Pizza Union in Spitalfields.
GBP7, 1 hour

1:00PM

Walk to Tower Bridge

Take in the stunning views of Tower Bridge, and if you're feeling adventurous, go inside for a perspective from the walkway.
Walk 10 minutes to Tower Bridge.
GBP10, 1 hour

2:00PM

Discover the Southwark Cathedral

Visit Southwark Cathedral known for its beautiful architecture and serene environment.
Walk 15 minutes to Southwark Cathedral.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Tea at the Borough Market Coffee Stand

Relax with a cup of tea and a pastry at one of the popular coffee stands within Borough Market.
Walk back to Borough Market.
GBP5, 1 hour

4:00PM

Shopping at Oxford Street

Explore the shops on the bustling streets of Oxford Shopping, perfect for souvenir hunting or window shopping.
Take the Tube to Oxford Circus.
Free (excludes purchase), 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Flat Iron

End your day with an excellently cooked steak at Flat Iron, known for its affordable prices.
Walk 10 minutes.
GBP12, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Parks and Culture

London, UK

8:00AM

Breakfast at – The Good Life Eatery

Fuel your morning with healthy options at The Good Life Eatery, which serves vibrant and nutritious meals.
Take the Tube to Victoria.
GBP10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Stroll through St. James's Park

Enjoy a relaxing morning walk through St. James's Park, one of London’s most picturesque parks.
Walk to St. James's Park.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Buckingham Palace

Watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace, a quintessentially British experience.
Walk 10 minutes to Buckingham Palace.
Free (if timing aligns), 1 hour

11:30AM

Explore the National Gallery

Marvel at world-class art collections at the National Gallery located in Trafalgar Square.
Take the Tube to Charing Cross.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Honest Burgers

Enjoy a classic burger paired with rosemary fries at Honest Burgers, which offers delicious yet affordable options.
Walk to Honest Burgers.
GBP15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Walk to Covent Garden

Head over to Covent Garden for street performances and vibrant atmosphere.
Walk 15 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Explore the Royal Opera House

Visit the Royal Opera House, where you can enjoy stunning architecture; guided tours are available.
Walk to the Royal Opera House.
GBP12, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Hare & Tortoise

End the day with Asian fusion dishes at The Hare & Tortoise for a relaxed dining experience.
Walk to The Hare & Tortoise.
GBP15, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Museum Mile and Markets

London, UK

8:00AM

Breakfast at Gail's Bakery

Start your day with freshly baked pastries and artisanal coffee at Gail's Bakery.
Walk or take the Tube to Bloomsbury.
GBP8, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Natural History Museum

Discover fascinating exhibits about nature and humanity at one of London's best museums.
Take the Tube to South Kensington.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Science Museum

Engage with interactive exhibits and learn about science history at the Science Museum.
Walk 10 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at South Ken Kitchen

Enjoy delicious brunch options at South Ken Kitchen, known for its cozy atmosphere.
Walk back to South Kensington.
GBP12, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Camden Market

Dive into the eclectic spirit of Camden Market, filled with stalls selling unique clothing, crafts, and food.
Take the Tube to Camden Town.
Free (excludes purchase), 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Cheese Bar

Indulge in gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches and sides at The Cheese Bar, perfect for a cozy meal.
Take the Tube to Camden Market.
GBP12, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Wandering Through Neighborhoods

London, UK

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Attendant

Savor a unique breakfast in a repurposed Victorian toilet at The Attendant, famous for its ambiance and excellent coffee.
Take the Tube to Clerkenwell.
GBP10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Notting Hill

Wander through the colorful streets of Notting Hill, known for its charming houses and quirky shops.
Take the Tube to Notting Hill Gate.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Farm Girl Cafe

Try healthy and vibrant dishes at Farm Girl Cafe, known for its Instagram-friendly aesthetics.
Walk to Farm Girl Cafe.
GBP12, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Portobello Road Market

Browse the antique stalls and unique boutiques at Portobello Road Market, especially lively on Saturdays.
Walk 10 minutes.
Free (excludes purchase), 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Head to Kensington Gardens

Relax in the beautiful setting of Kensington Gardens, home to the Albert Memorial and the Serpentine Gallery.
Walk 15 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Windsor Castle Pub

Experience traditional British pub food at The Windsor Castle, a cozy spot with great ales.
Take the bus to Notting Hill.
GBP15, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Green Spaces & More Museums

London, UK

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Collective

Kickstart your morning with specialty coffee and pastries at The Coffee Collective in Brixton.
Take the Tube to Brixton.
GBP8, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the V&A Museum

Explore the Victoria and Albert Museum, filled with art and design exhibits spanning centuries.
Take the Tube to South Kensington.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Stroll through Hyde Park

Take a leisurely walk in Hyde Park, one of London’s largest and most famous parks.
Walk 20 minutes to Hyde Park.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Speaker's Corner Cafe

Enjoy a bite at the casual Speaker's Corner Cafe overlooking the park.
Walk to the Speaker's Corner.
GBP10, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Natural History Museum

Take another look at the amazing exhibits at the Natural History Museum, worth visiting more than once.
Walk back to South Kensington.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Have Afternoon Tea at The Orangery

Treat yourself to delightful sandwiches and tea at The Orangery located in Kensington Gardens.
Walk to The Orangery.
GBP15, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Bodean's BBQ

Dig into some tasty BBQ at this popular chain known for its good value and robust flavors.
Take the Tube to Soho.
GBP12, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Last Day Leisure

London, UK

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Ivy Chelsea Garden

Enjoy a lovely breakfast in an atmosphere that combines elegance with vibrant garden views.
Take the Tube to Sloane Square.
GBP15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the British Library

Uncover historical documents and exhibits at the British Library, expanding your knowledge.
Take the Tube to King's Cross.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Dishoom (again)

Return to Dishoom for another fantastic meal, as you can't get enough of their delicious dishes.
Walk or take the Tube to Covent Garden.
GBP10, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Shopping at Harrods

Explore the iconic Harrods department store for last-minute shopping and delightful window displays.
Take the Tube to Knightsbridge.
Free (excludes purchase), 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relaxing at Hyde Park

Spend your final afternoon relaxing in Hyde Park, enjoying the surroundings with a good book.
Take the Tube back to Hyde Park.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Farewell Dinner at The Hummingbird Bakery

Celebrate your last evening with a sweet treat or savory snack from The Hummingbird Bakery.
Walk to The Hummingbird Bakery in Notting Hill.
GBP10, 1 hour
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