City trip London for beginners

Route

This 4-day city break focuses on London’s must-see highlights. You explore Westminster with Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, wander through Covent Garden and Soho, and finish with icons such as Tower Bridge and the Tower of London.

Pace

You discover the city neighbourhood by neighbourhood, following a logical flow that allows you to see a lot without feeling rushed. Distances are manageable on foot or by Underground, leaving time for museums, parks and relaxed lunch spots.

Highlights

The grandeur of Westminster Abbey, the lively atmosphere of Covent Garden, world-class collections at the British Museum, views over the Thames and royal history at the Tower of London. Here, London reveals its most recognisable side.

Accommodation

You stay three nights in a carefully selected Caractère hotel, centrally located and ideal for exploring the city on foot.

Profile

Perfect for first-time visitors who want a clear overview of London’s main sights, combining culture, atmosphere and free time to shape the experience.

Why London?

London blends history, culture and urban energy in a way few cities can match. From Tower Bridge to Buckingham Palace, through world-renowned museums and the shops of Oxford Street or Regent Street, the city effortlessly fills a long weekend with highlights.

Important information:

The United Kingdom requires a valid international passport. A Belgian identity card is not sufficient.
Travelers to the United Kingdom must also hold an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). This can be applied for on the UK government website, gov.uk (not on other unofficial websites!) or via the UK ETA app and costs £16 per person. Do this well in advance of your trip, as it can take up to three business days for the application to be approved. If required, we can also arrange this for you if we have the necessary passport details.

Day 1: Westminster

Let's face it: on your first day in London, you want to see all those world-famous sights you know from films and series. So you can already update your bucket list. Take the tube to Saint James' Park or take a London cab and let your trip begin. Walk up to Buckingham Palace and imagine yourself a royal for a while. Then continue your tour through cosy Saint James' Park to Westminster - the beating political and tourist heart of the UK. Discover the splendour of Westminster Abbey, where British kings are crowned, and stop off at Whitehall for the Changing of the Guard. Another tip: keep an eye on your clock and take a seat across the Thames overlooking Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. The moment the clock strikes every hour is definitely impressive.

Day 2: Covent Garden, Soho and Mayfair

Don't be fooled, Covent Garden is not a 'tourist trap'. It is the cosy and vibrant heart of Soho, with shops, restaurants and cosy bars galore. Discover the atmospheric market place and listen to the street artists who are always on hand. You'll often discover up-and-coming talent, so who knows, you might see a world star in the making. The streets around Seven Dials are home to hip and cosy boutiques and restaurants. For more exclusive offerings, head to Mayfair. When night falls, this part of town gets even more buzzing: you're in one of the most famous entertainment districts in the world! Whether you like musicals, theatre, opera or ballet: the choice is yours.

Day 3: British Museum, Saint Paul's Cathedral and the Tower of London

On day 3, it's time for an obligatory dose of culture! After all, London has some of the most prestigious museums in the world. Choosing is difficult, if not impossible, but the British Museum is a must. Here you will find the famous Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles and so much more. So much, in fact, that you could easily spend a whole day here. If you don't want to, plan your visit well in advance and take a guide. Oh yes, and the best thing: all this splendour is free to visit, as are most of London's most famous museums. In the afternoon, you will have time to visit Saint Paul's Cathedral, right in the middle of the City of London. Do you have time to spare later on? Then make sure to visit the Tower of London, where you can admire the British Crown Jewels. Your eyes will undoubtedly twinkle at the sight of all that beauty.

Day 4: Going home

Your stay in this fantastic city is sadly at an end. After your last breakfast at your hotel, it's time to check out. Are you returning home by Eurostar and have some free time to spare? Then explore bustling Camden Town near Saint Pancras Station; an eclectic mix of colourful shops and markets. Also make sure to look for the statue of Amy Winehouse, Camden's most famous resident.