How to Spend 5 Days in London

Five days gives you time to hit London's major sights without rushing. Focus on 2-3 neighborhoods per day, book timed entry tickets in advance for popular attractions, and use the Tube to move efficiently between areas.

  1. Get an Oyster Card or contactless payment set up. Buy an Oyster Card at any Tube station or set up contactless payment on your phone/card. Daily cap is £8.50 for Zones 1-2, which covers central London. Much cheaper than individual tickets.
  2. Book timed entry tickets before you go. Reserve spots for Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, St. Paul's Cathedral, and any special exhibitions at major museums. These sell out or have long queues without advance booking.
  3. Download Citymapper. Best app for navigating London's transport. Shows you the fastest route between any two points using buses, Tube, walking, or combinations.
  4. Plan around museum free hours. British Museum, Tate Modern, National Gallery, and V&A are always free for permanent collections. Use these as anchor points for your daily itineraries.
Is 5 days enough for London?
Yes, 5 days covers the major sights without rushing. You'll see the iconic landmarks, several world-class museums, and get a feel for different neighborhoods. London has enough for weeks, but 5 days gives you a solid introduction.
Should I buy a London Pass?
Usually no. London Pass costs £78 for 1 day and only pays off if you hit 3-4 paid attractions daily. Most of London's best museums are free, and you'll want time to explore neighborhoods, not just rush between sights.
How much should I budget for shopping?
Oxford Street and Regent Street are expensive. For souvenirs, budget £5-15 per item. Borough Market has good food gifts for £3-10. Vintage shopping in Camden or Portobello Road offers better value than high street stores.
Is it safe to walk around London at night?
Central London is generally very safe at night, especially in tourist areas. Stick to well-lit main streets and busy areas. The Tube runs until midnight on weekdays, 1am on Fridays and Saturdays.