5-Day Family Christmas Holiday Itinerary in London, England

London, England

5 days

Lit up christmas tree in central London
London Eye
Carnaby Street during Christmas
Battersea Power station during Christmas
Riverside panorama at night

About London, England

Experience the vibrant and historic city of London, England, a global hub of culture, art, and commerce. Marvel at iconic landmarks like the majestic Buckingham Palace, the imposing Tower of London, and the modern London Eye. Explore world-class museums like the British Museum and the National Gallery, all offering free entry. Stroll through beautiful parks such as Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens. Enjoy shopping at Oxford Street and savour diverse cuisine at Covent Garden. Experience the magic of West End theatre and the charm of the River Thames. London's efficient public transport system, including the famous London Underground, makes it easy to explore this cosmopolitan city. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, a shopaholic, or a theatre enthusiast, London has something for everyone.

5-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Tower of London and Christmas by the River

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Tower of London. Explore the historic castle, see the Crown Jewels and learn about its rich history.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional British lunch in a family-friendly restaurant near the Tower of London.

Afternoon

Take a short walk to the Tower Bridge and explore its Victorian Engine Rooms and high-level walkways with stunning views of London.

Dinner

Have dinner in a cozy restaurant in the Southwark area, known for its great food scene.

Evening

Experience the magical Christmas by the River market, with its beautiful lights, festive stalls and stunning views of Tower Bridge and the City of London.

Morning

Visit the British Museum, home to a vast collection of world art and artefacts.

Lunch

Have lunch in a restaurant near the British Museum, offering a variety of international cuisines.

Afternoon

Explore Covent Garden, known for its unique shops, street performers and the Royal Opera House.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner in a family-friendly restaurant in Covent Garden.

Evening

Experience the Covent Garden Christmas lights and decorations, one of the most spectacular displays in London.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Natural History Museum, a favorite among families for its fascinating exhibits.

Lunch

Have lunch in a restaurant near the Natural History Museum, offering a variety of family-friendly options.

Afternoon

Visit Hyde Park's Winter Wonderland, a Christmas extravaganza with festive rides, attractions and a Christmas market.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner in a restaurant near Hyde Park, offering a variety of cuisines.

Evening

Take a magical ride on the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland's Giant Observation Wheel, offering stunning views of London.

Morning

Visit the iconic Buckingham Palace and witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony.

Lunch

Have lunch in a restaurant near Buckingham Palace, offering a variety of British and international cuisines.

Afternoon

Explore the Victoria and Albert Museum, known for its vast collection of art and design.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner in a restaurant in the South Kensington area, known for its great food scene.

Evening

Experience the magical Christmas at Kew, a festive event with a stunning light trail through Kew Gardens.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the iconic St. Paul's Cathedral and enjoy the stunning views of London from its dome.

Lunch

Have lunch in a restaurant near St. Paul's Cathedral, offering a variety of cuisines.

Afternoon

Take a ride on the London Eye, offering stunning views of the city. During Christmas, it's transformed into a magical experience with festive decorations.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner in a restaurant near the London Eye, offering a variety of cuisines.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to the Southbank Centre Winter Market, offering festive food, drinks and gifts.

Attractions in Itinerary (14)

Tower of London

1
Tower of London

A historic castle located on the north bank of the River Thames, the Tower of London is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that houses the Crown Jewels.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Tower Bridge

2
Tower Bridge

A combined bascule and suspension bridge in London, built between 1886 and 1894. The bridge crosses the River Thames close to the Tower of London and has become a world-famous symbol of London.

Attractions
Landmarks
Architecture
British Museum

3
British Museum

Home to a vast collection of world art and artefacts, the British Museum is dedicated to human history, art, and culture.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Covent Garden

4
Covent Garden

A popular shopping and tourist site in London, Covent Garden is known for its luxury fashion and beauty stores, artisanal food and drink, and live street performances.

Neighborhoods
Shopping
Entertainment
Royal Opera House

5
Royal Opera House

The Royal Opera House is an opera house and major performing arts venue in Covent Garden, central London. It is home to The Royal Opera, The Royal Ballet, and the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House.

Attractions
Entertainment
Cultural Experiences
Natural History Museum

6
Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum in London is a natural history museum that exhibits a vast range of specimens from various segments of natural history. It is one of three major museums on Exhibition Road in South Kensington.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Hyde Park's Winter Wonderland

7
Hyde Park's Winter Wonderland

Hyde Park's Winter Wonderland is a popular annual Christmas event in London. It features a variety of festive activities, entertainment, and food and drink options.

Attractions
Entertainment
Cultural Experiences
Buckingham Palace

8
Buckingham Palace

The London residence of the Queen, Buckingham Palace is one of the few working royal palaces remaining in the world today.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Changing of the Guard

9
Changing of the Guard

A formal ceremony in which sentries providing ceremonial guard duties at important institutions are relieved by a new batch of sentries. The most popular takes place at Buckingham Palace.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Victoria and Albert Museum

10
Victoria and Albert Museum

The Victoria and Albert Museum in London is the world's largest museum of applied and decorative arts and design, as well as sculpture, housing a permanent collection of over 2.27 million objects. It was founded in 1852 and named after Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Kew Gardens

11
Kew Gardens

A world-renowned botanical garden, Kew Gardens houses the largest and most diverse botanical and mycological collections in the world.

Gardens
Cultural Experiences
St. Paul's Cathedral

12
St. Paul's Cathedral

An iconic feature of the London skyline, St. Paul's Cathedral is an Anglican cathedral and the seat of the Bishop of London.

Attractions
Religious Sites
Architecture
London Eye

13
London Eye

A giant Ferris wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames, the London Eye offers stunning views of the city.

Attractions
Landmarks
Southbank Centre Winter Market

14
Southbank Centre Winter Market

Southbank Centre Winter Market is a popular attraction in London during the winter months. It offers a variety of food and drink stalls, as well as shopping opportunities for unique gifts and souvenirs.

Attractions
Food and Drink
Shopping

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Fish and Chips

Fish and Chips

A classic British dish consisting of fried fish in batter served with chips. It's a must-try when visiting London.

Full English Breakfast

Full English Breakfast

A hearty breakfast that includes bacon, eggs, sausages, beans, tomatoes, mushrooms, and toast. It's a staple in London and across the UK.

Sunday Roast

Sunday Roast

A traditional British meal that is typically served on Sundays, it includes roasted meat, roast potato, and accompaniments like Yorkshire pudding, stuffing, vegetables and gravy.

Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala

A popular dish in London, it's a British-Indian curry made of roasted marinated chicken in a spiced curry sauce.

Beef Wellington

Beef Wellington

A traditional British dish consisting of fillet steak coated with pâté and duxelles, which is then wrapped in puff pastry and baked.

Pimm's

Pimm's

A fruit cup, but may also be considered a liqueur, based on gin and can be served both on ice or in cocktails. It's particularly popular during the summer months.

Sticky Toffee Pudding

A British dessert consisting of a very moist sponge cake, covered in a toffee sauce and often served with a vanilla custard or vanilla ice-cream.

Ploughman's Lunch

Ploughman's Lunch

A traditional British dish that typically includes cold, simple, and hearty ingredients like cheese, bread, pickles, and cold meats. It's a common pub lunch in London.

Bangers and Mash

A traditional British dish made of mashed potatoes and sausages, it's a staple in many London pubs.

Black Pudding

Black Pudding

A type of blood sausage commonly eaten in Great Britain. It is generally served as part of a traditional full English breakfast.

Eton Mess

Eton Mess

A traditional English dessert consisting of a mixture of strawberries, broken meringue, and whipped double cream. It's a summer classic in London.

English Tea

English Tea

A traditional British drink, typically served with milk and sugar. Afternoon tea is a cultural institution in London.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit London, England as a tourist is typically during the spring (late March to June) and autumn (September to November). During these periods, the weather is generally mild and the city's parks are beautiful and blooming. The summer months (July and August) can also be a great time to visit, but they are usually more crowded with tourists. Additionally, December is a popular time to visit due to the festive Christmas season, despite the colder weather. However, London is a city that offers unique charm in every season, so it really depends on your personal preferences.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 2

Tue

2nd January (Scotland)

March 17

Sun

St Patrick's Day (Northern Ireland)

March 18

Mon

Day off for St Patrick's Day (Northern Ireland)

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

April 1

Mon

Easter Monday (regional holiday)

May 6

Mon

Early May Bank Holiday

May 27

Mon

Spring Bank Holiday

July 12

Fri

Battle of the Boyne (Northern Ireland)

August 5

Mon

Summer Bank Holiday (Scotland)

August 26

Mon

Summer Bank Holiday (regional holiday)

November 30

Sat

St Andrew's Day (Scotland)

December 2

Mon

St Andrew's Day observed (Scotland)

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 26

Thu

Boxing Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

The London Underground, also known as the Tube, is a convenient way to travel around the city. It has 11 lines covering 402 km and serving 270 stations. It's the quickest way to get around London.

London's iconic double-decker buses are a quick, convenient and cheap way to travel around the city, with plenty of routes to choose from. They're also a great way to see the city, with routes passing many of London's most famous landmarks.

London has an extensive overground train network that connects the city to the suburbs and beyond. These trains are a good option if you're travelling outside of the city centre.

London has an extensive network of cycle paths and bike-sharing schemes such as Santander Cycles. Cycling can be a quick and healthy way to get around, especially in the city centre.

London's black cabs are a famous sight throughout the city. They can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. All black cabs are wheelchair accessible and most have card payment facilities.

Services like Uber and Bolt operate in London. They can be a convenient way to get around, especially if you're travelling in a group or have a lot of luggage. However, they can be more expensive than public transport.

Thames Clippers operates services up and down the River Thames and offers an interesting way to travel around the city. You can use your Oyster card or contactless payment card for an easy way to pay.

London has a tram network that operates in parts of south London. Trams are a good way to travel in areas they serve, offering a reliable and frequent service.

This is a cable car link across the River Thames in East London, providing stunning aerial views of the city. It's a unique way to travel and see London from a different perspective.

London has several dockless e-scooter rental schemes operating in certain parts of the city. They can be a quick and convenient way to get around, especially for short journeys.

London is a great city to explore on foot. Many of the most famous landmarks are within walking distance of each other. Plus, you'll save money and get some exercise at the same time.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency£ GBP

Time zoneUTC 0

Driving sideLeft

Emergency phone112, 999

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type G

Voltage230 V

Things to know about London, England as a first time visitor

1

London is a very walkable city, but it's also quite large. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes.

2

The city is known for its unpredictable weather. Always carry an umbrella or raincoat, even if the forecast looks clear.

3

Public transportation is very efficient. The London Underground, also known as 'The Tube', is the quickest way to get around the city.

4

If you plan to use public transportation frequently, consider getting an Oyster card. It's a cost-effective way to pay for travel on the Tube, buses, and other forms of public transport.

5

London is divided into several areas, each with its own unique character. Research the different areas to decide where you'd like to stay.

6

Tipping is customary in London. It's typical to leave a 10-15% tip at restaurants, but check your bill first as some places include it automatically.

7

London is generally safe, but like any big city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

8

The city is very diverse, with over 300 languages spoken. However, English is the main language and is spoken everywhere.

9

The currency in London is the British Pound (£). It's a good idea to have some cash on hand, but credit cards are widely accepted.

10

London is in the Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) zone. Make sure to adjust your watch when you arrive.

11

The legal drinking age in London is 18. You may be asked for ID if you look under 25.

12

Smoking is banned in all enclosed public places and workplaces in London, including pubs and restaurants.

13

London can be quite expensive, so budget accordingly. However, there are also many free activities and attractions in the city.

14

The city is known for its high quality tap water. It's safe to drink from the tap in London.

15

London's peak tourist season is in the summer, from June to August. The weather is warmest during this time, with temperatures typically ranging from 59°F to 77°F (15°C to 25°C).

16

In winter, London can be quite cold, with temperatures typically ranging from 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). Make sure to pack warm clothes.

17

London is a city that never sleeps. Many shops, restaurants, and bars stay open late, especially on weekends.

18

The city is very accommodating to those with dietary restrictions. You'll find plenty of vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and halal options.

19

London is a great city for shopping. From high-end designer stores to vintage markets, there's something for everyone.

20

Finally, Londoners are generally polite and reserved. Don't be surprised if people keep to themselves on public transport. It's just the local culture.

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Underwear (5 pairs)

  • Socks (5 pairs)

  • T-shirts (5)

  • Jeans or trousers (2 pairs)

  • Sweater or jacket (1)

  • Pajamas (1 set)

  • Comfortable walking shoes (1 pair)

  • Formal outfit (1, if planning to visit high-end restaurants or events)

  • Raincoat or umbrella (1, considering London's unpredictable weather)

  • Scarf, gloves, and hat (1 each, if traveling in winter)

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Makeup and makeup remover

  • Hairbrush or comb

  • Travel-sized first aid kit

  • Prescription medications

  • Sunscreen

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or other ID

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash in local currency (British Pound)

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and other booking confirmations

  • Maps and guidebooks

  • Emergency contacts and addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Universal power adapter

  • Headphones

  • Camera and charger

  • Laptop and charger (if necessary)

  • Portable power bank

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks for the journey

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Books or e-reader for entertainment

  • Travel-sized laundry detergent

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Ziplock bags for organization

  • Tote bag for shopping

  • Travel lock for luggage

Weather Conditions

London, England, is known for its unpredictable weather. It's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip, but here are some general tips to help you prepare. The city experiences a temperate maritime climate with all four seasons, but no extreme temperatures. During the summer months (June - August), you can expect average highs of around 22°C (72°F) and lows of around 12°C (54°F). It's typically the best time to visit for warm weather, but it can also be quite crowded. Spring (March - May) and autumn (September - November) are mild with average temperatures ranging from 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F). These seasons are less crowded and offer beautiful scenery, but the weather can change quickly, so pack layers and always carry an umbrella. Winter (December - February) can be chilly with temperatures ranging from 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Snow is rare but possible. If you're visiting during this time, be sure to pack warm clothing. Rain is common throughout the year in London. The city is known for its light drizzle, so no matter when you visit, it's a good idea to pack a waterproof jacket or an umbrella. Despite the unpredictable weather, London offers a wealth of indoor activities, such as museums, galleries, and historic sites, so you'll have plenty to do even if it rains. Remember, the weather can change quickly, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast each day and dress in layers. Enjoy your trip!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

14° / 2°

January is the coldest month in London, with occasional snow and rain. Pack warm clothing and waterproof shoes.

February

12° / 2°

February is still quite cold, with a mix of rain and snow. Warm clothing and waterproof shoes are recommended.

March

15° / 4°

March sees the start of spring, with slightly warmer temperatures and more daylight. Light jackets and umbrellas are advisable.

April

17° / 6°

April is generally mild, but there can be rain showers. Pack a mix of light and warm clothing.

May

20° / 9°

May is usually warm with longer daylight hours. Light clothing and a light jacket for evenings are recommended.

June

24° / 12°

June marks the start of summer, with warm temperatures and long days. Pack light clothing and sunscreen.

July

28° / 14°

July is the hottest month in London, with long sunny days. Light clothing, sunscreen, and a hat are advisable.

August

28° / 14°

August is also hot, with occasional rain showers. Light clothing, an umbrella, and sunscreen are recommended.

September

23° / 11°

September is generally warm, but evenings can be cooler. Pack light clothing and a light jacket for evenings.

October

19° / 8°

October sees the start of autumn, with cooler temperatures and changing foliage. Warm clothing and waterproof shoes are recommended.

November

15° / 5°

November is quite cold, with shorter daylight hours. Warm clothing, waterproof shoes, and an umbrella are advisable.

December

13° / 3°

December is cold and often rainy, with short daylight hours. Warm clothing, waterproof shoes, and an umbrella are recommended.

Did you know?

Did you know that London was founded by the Romans, who named it Londinium?

1 of 10

Places near by London, England

Oxford

Oxford

Home to the oldest university in the English-speaking world, Oxford is a city filled with history and charm.

1h
92 km / 57.2 mi
How to get there
Cambridge

Cambridge

Known for its prestigious university and beautiful architecture, Cambridge is a city that combines the old and the new.

49m
98 km / 60.9 mi
How to get there
Bath

Bath

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Bath is famous for its Roman-built baths and Georgian architecture.

1.5h
156 km / 96.9 mi
How to get there
Stonehenge

Stonehenge

One of the world's most famous prehistoric monuments, Stonehenge is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

2h
142 km / 88.2 mi
How to get there
Brighton

Brighton

A vibrant seaside resort known for its iconic pier, Brighton offers a mix of beach fun, shopping, and nightlife.

52m
84 km / 52.2 mi
How to get there
Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon

The birthplace of William Shakespeare, Stratford-upon-Avon is a market town with more than 800 years of history.

2.2h
163 km / 101.3 mi
How to get there
Windsor

Windsor

Home to Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, Windsor is a town full of history and charm.

34m
34 km / 21.1 mi
How to get there
Canterbury

Canterbury

Famous for its stunning cathedral, Canterbury is a historic English cathedral city and UNESCO World Heritage site.

1h
89 km / 55.3 mi
How to get there
Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle

Dubbed 'The Loveliest Castle in the World', Leeds Castle offers 500 acres of beautiful parkland and gardens.

1.3h
64 km / 39.8 mi
How to get there
Warwick Castle

Warwick Castle

One of the most well-preserved medieval castles in England, Warwick Castle offers a look into the country's past.

1.4h
146 km / 90.7 mi
How to get there

Other Destinations in England