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12-Day Ultimate London Experience Itinerary

Viewed by 148 travelers

Day 1: Arrival and Orientation

London, United Kingdom

9:00AM

Check-in at Thistle London Heathrow Terminal 5

Arrive at the hotel, check in, and freshen up after your journey.
Take a taxi or shuttle from Heathrow Airport to the hotel.
GBP 0, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Heathrow Terminal 5 Shopping

Stroll through shops in one of the world’s most impressive terminals, from luxury brands to local items.
Walk around Terminal 5, it’s designed for easy navigation.
GBP 0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Heathrow Airport Plaza

Enjoy a variety of options with a special mention for ‘Giraffe’ for a delightful international menu.
Dine in the food court at Terminal 5.
GBP 20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Travel to Central London

Settle into London using the Heathrow Express to Paddington Station.
Take the Heathrow Express to Paddington Station.
GBP 25, 15 minutes

3:00PM

Visit Hyde Park

Relax in one of London’s largest parks, perfect for a leisurely walk.
Walk from Paddington to Hyde Park.
GBP 0, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at The Serpentine Bar & Kitchen

Enjoy leisurely dining overlooking the beautiful Serpentine Lake in Hyde Park.
On foot within Hyde Park.
GBP 30, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Evening at Leicester Square

Explore the lively square and enjoy the ambiance of London’s entertainment hub.
Use the Underground from Lancaster Gate to Leicester Square, Piccadilly Line.
GBP 4, 30 minutes
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Day 2: Cultural Riches

London, United Kingdom

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Ivy Café

Start your day with a hearty English breakfast in a stylish café.
Take the Underground to St. Paul's Station.
GBP 25, 1 hour

9:00AM

St. Paul's Cathedral

Explore the iconic dome and stunning interiors of this historic church.
Walk from The Ivy Café to St. Paul's Cathedral.
GBP 20, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Tate Modern

Discover contemporary art housed in a former power station.
Walk along the Thames Path to Tate Modern.
GBP 0, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Tate Modern Café

Grab lunch while overlooking the Thames; the café offers fresh, seasonal dishes.
Dine on-site.
GBP 18, 1 hour

2:00PM

Cross the Millennium Bridge

Enjoy the stunning views as you walk across this iconic pedestrian bridge.
Walk across to St. Paul's Cathedral side.
GBP 0, 30 minutes

3:00PM

The Globe Theatre

Take a guided tour and discover the world of Shakespeare.
Take a short walk from the Millennium Bridge.
GBP 17, 1 hour

4:30PM

Visit Borough Market

Explore this bustling food market with a variety of gourmet food options.
Take a 10-minute walk or bus to London Bridge.
GBP 0, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Padella

Savor fresh pasta dishes in this trendy pasta bar that is a Borough Market staple.
Walk to Padella from Borough Market.
GBP 30, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Experience the London Eye

Take a ride on the London Eye for mesmerizing views of the city at night.
Use the Underground from Borough, Jubilee Line to Waterloo.
GBP 30, 1 hour
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Day 3: Iconic Attractions

London, United Kingdom

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Breakfast Club

Enjoy funky interiors and an all-day breakfast menu at this iconic spot.
Take the Underground to Soho.
GBP 20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Buckingham Palace

Watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony while visiting the Queen's official residence.
Walk from Soho to Buckingham Palace.
GBP 0, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Westminster Abbey

Visit the historic church and iconic burial site of British monarchs.
Take the Underground from Green Park to Westminster.
GBP 25, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Cellarium Café & Terrace

Enjoy dining in the atmospheric surroundings of Westminster Abbey.
On-site café.
GBP 20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Houses of Parliament & Big Ben

Admire the stunning Gothic architecture and learn about British politics.
Short walk from Westminster Abbey.
GBP 0, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore the Churchill War Rooms

Delve into Britain’s World War II history from this underground war headquarters.
Walk from Big Ben to the War Rooms.
GBP 23, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Ivy

Dine at one of London’s most prestigious restaurants, beloved for its celebrity clientele.
Take the Underground from Westminster to Covent Garden.
GBP 40, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Catch a West End Show

Experience London’s vibrant theatre scene with an unforgettable performance.
Walk to nearby theatres from dinner.
GBP 50, 2 hours
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Day 4: Museum Day

London, United Kingdom

8:30AM

Breakfast at The Orangery

Start your day elegantly with a lovely breakfast in a beautiful setting.
Take the Underground to Kensington.
GBP 25, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the Natural History Museum

Discover dinosaurs, precious gems, and much more at this world-renowned museum.
Short walk to the museum from The Orangery.
GBP 0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Explore the Science Museum

Witness the marvels of science and innovation in this fascinating museum.
A short walk to the Science Museum from the Natural History Museum.
GBP 0, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Cockpit

Enjoy pub-style food in this casual, convivial environment nearby.
Take the bus or walk to the restaurant.
GBP 15, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit Victoria and Albert Museum

Explore the world’s largest museum of decorative arts and design.
Walk from The Cockpit to the V&A.
GBP 0, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Hyde Park

Wander through Hyde Park and enjoy its wintery charm.
Walk to Hyde Park.
GBP 0, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The Marksman

Experience traditional British cuisine in an inviting pub atmosphere.
Take the Underground to Hackney.
GBP 30, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Art and History

London, United Kingdom

8:00AM

Breakfast at Dishoom

Experience a Bombay-inspired breakfast in a lively and vibrant environment.
Use the Underground to Covent Garden.
GBP 20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the British Museum

Explore thousands of years of history and artifacts from different cultures.
Walk to the British Museum.
GBP 0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore the National Gallery

Admire exceptional artworks at one of the world's greatest art museums.
Walk to Trafalgar Square.
GBP 0, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Crypt Café

The café is located under St. Martin-in-the-Fields serving delicious light meals.
Walk to The Crypt Café from the National Gallery.
GBP 15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Covent Garden Market

Browse the shops and enjoy street performances at this vibrant marketplace.
Walk to Covent Garden.
GBP 0, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Relax at Covent Garden

Stroll, shop, or just enjoy the lively environment of Covent Garden.
Stay in Covent Garden area.
GBP 0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Oystermen Seafood Bar & Kitchen

Enjoy fresh seafood dishes at this intimate sea-food lover's paradise.
Walk to the restaurant in Covent Garden.
GBP 35, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Shopping Day

London, United Kingdom

8:30AM

Breakfast at The Dalloway Terrace

Indulge in a luxurious breakfast at this atmospheric terrace café.
Use the Underground to Russell Square.
GBP 25, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Oxford Street

Shop till you drop on one of the world's most famous shopping streets.
Take the Underground from Russell Square to Oxford Circus.
GBP 0, 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Selfridges Food Hall

Enjoy a variety of international cuisines at the famous department store’s food hall.
Walk from Oxford Street to Selfridges.
GBP 20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Regent Street

Check out the shops on this gorgeous shopping and dining destination.
Walk to Regent Street from Selfridges.
GBP 0, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore Carnaby Street

Experience funky boutiques and lively atmosphere at this fashionable area.
Short walk to Carnaby Street.
GBP 0, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Dishoom Carnaby

Return to Dishoom in celebration of all of your shopping successes.
Walk back to Dishoom Carnaby.
GBP 35, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Parks and Palaces

London, United Kingdom

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Wolseley

Start your day in luxurious surroundings with a grand European breakfast.
Take the Underground to Piccadilly Circus.
GBP 25, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Kensington Palace

Explore the gorgeous state apartments and beautiful gardens of this royal residence.
Take a short bus or walk from Hyde Park.
GBP 15, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Orangery, Kensington

Enjoy a delightful lunch in the heart of Kensington Gardens.
Walk on-site in Kensington Gardens.
GBP 25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Hyde Park

Again, wander through and enjoy scenic views and historical landmarks in the park.
Walk from Kensington Palace.
GBP 0, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Royal Albert Hall

Take a tour of this legendary concert hall with stunning architecture.
Take a short walk from Hyde Park.
GBP 18, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at The Harne's Tavern

Relax at this cozy pub next to Kensington Palace after a day of exploration.
Take a short walk to the tavern.
GBP 30, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Historic Landmarks

London, United Kingdom

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Breakfast Club

Enjoy a fun atmosphere and delightful breakfast once again.
Take the Underground to Soho.
GBP 20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Tower of London

Discover the crown jewels and hear about the fortress's rich history.
Take the Underground to Tower Hill.
GBP 30, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Perkin Reveller

This restaurant is located right by the Tower, offering stunning views of the Thames.
Walk from the Tower of London.
GBP 25, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Tower Bridge

Walk across the iconic bridge and capture some unforgettable photos.
Short walk to Tower Bridge.
GBP 0, 1 hour

2:30PM

Walk along the Thames Path

Enjoy a riverside walk with beautiful views and landmarks along the way.
Explore the path along Tower Bridge.
GBP 0, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit the Sky Garden

Cap off the day with a unique garden experience high up above the city.
Take the Underground to Monument, walk to Sky Garden.
GBP 0, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Duck and Waffle

Indulge in modern British cuisine in this iconic restaurant with stunning views.
Short walk to Duck and Waffle from Sky Garden.
GBP 50, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Day Trips

London, United Kingdom

7:00AM

Breakfast at The Good Egg

Kick start your day with a tasty breakfast in a lively atmosphere.
Take the Underground to Stoke Newington.
GBP 20, 1 hour

8:30AM

Day trip to Windsor Castle

Spend the day exploring the oldest continuously inhabited castle in the world.
Take the train from Waterloo to Windsor.
GBP 25, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at The Scrumptious Café, Windsor

Enjoy a cozy lunch near the castle with cakes and sandwiches.
On-site in Windsor town.
GBP 15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Windsor town

Stroll through the quaint town, filled with shops and riverside views.
Walk around Windsor.
GBP 0, 2 hours

4:00PM

Return to London

Head back to London after a delightful day trip.
Take the train back to Waterloo.
GBP 25, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at The Fish & Eels

Enjoy a meal at this cozy riverside pub upon your return to London.
Take the Underground back to the hotel.
GBP 30, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Relaxation Day

London, United Kingdom

9:00AM

Breakfast at Colbert

Indulge in classic French cuisine for breakfast at this Parisian-style café.
Take the Underground to Sloane Square.
GBP 25, 1 hour

10:30AM

Stroll through Chelsea Physic Garden

Explore the historic botanical garden filled with medicinal plants.
Walk from Sloane Square.
GBP 0, 1 hour

12:00PM

Visit the Saatchi Gallery

Discover challenging contemporary art in the heart of Chelsea.
Short walk from the garden.
GBP 0, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Ivy Chelsea Garden

Dine in a stylish setting with beautiful garden views.
Walk from Saatchi Gallery.
GBP 30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Afternoon tea at The Dorchester

Experience a quintessential British tradition with an extravagant afternoon tea.
Take the Underground to Park Lane.
GBP 60, 2 hours

5:00PM

Leisure time at the Hotel

Relax and rejuvenate at your hotel, preparing for the next adventures.
Return to Thistle London Heathrow Terminal 5.
GBP 0, Rest of the day
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Day 11: Final Exploration

London, United Kingdom

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Breakfast Club

Enjoy a classic breakfast for the last time at this beloved spot.
Take the Underground to Soho.
GBP 20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Camden Market

Explore this vibrant alternative market known for its artistry and food stalls.
Take the Underground to Camden Town.
GBP 0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Cheese Bar

Indulge in cheese-driven dishes like raclette right in Camden.
Walk from the market.
GBP 20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Primrose Hill

Take a leisurely walk up to the hill for panoramic views of the London skyline.
Walk to Primrose Hill from Camden Market.
GBP 0, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Return to Hotel

Head back to your hotel to relax before departure.
Take the Underground back to Heathrow.
GBP 25, 1 hour

5:00PM

Check out and Departure

Say goodbye to London as you prepare for your onward journey.
Check out of Thistle London Heathrow Terminal 5.
GBP 0, 30 minutes
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Day 12: Departure Day

London, United Kingdom

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at Thistle before heading out.
On-site at the hotel.
GBP 20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Last-minute Shopping at Heathrow

Pick up souvenirs from the Terminal 5 shops before your flight.
Stay within the airport terminal.
GBP 0, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Check-out and Transfer to Airport

Check out and head to your gate to catch your flight home.
Walk to your flight gate via the airport.
GBP 0, 1 hour
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