Romance is in the air in London! England‘s capital promises an unforgettable lovers’ escape, where you will discover iconic landmarks, experience the vibrant atmosphere, and stroll through beautiful gardens hand-in-hand. From sunset strolls to romantic cruises, traditional tea experience, and candlelit dinners, we will help you accomplish every Baecation goal in this 5-Day London Itinerary For Couples. Grab your passports and get ready to depart for The Swinging City!
👉 Bonus: We even made a free downloadable 5-day London Itinerary for Couples PDF to make your planning super easy. [Get it here👇🏻]
Budgeting For A Couple’s Trip In London
A Baecation in London is not as impossible as you think. Many couples hesitate to travel to The Capital, thinking it will drain their savings. What if we told you that your London trip is possible even with a low budget? All you have to do is spend your money wisely by creating a budget plan beforehand. You should add activities that revolve around free attractions, use public transportation, and eat like a local. On average, you can expect to spend £70 to £245 per day in London.
Transport🚇
Did you know that public transport in London is often considered expensive compared to other European cities? A monthly bus & tram pass costs £94.50, a hefty amount compared to other cities. However, you can reduce transport expenses by using an Oyster card or contactless payment. With these options, you can travel using pay-as-you-go at £1.75 or buy a more affordable 7-day Bus & Tram Pass at £24.70. If you have a Bus & Tram Discount Photocard, your price will be reduced to £12.30 for a 7-day pass and £47.30 for a monthly pass.
5 (1) 
Food🍳
London boasts an impressive range of dining options, from local eateries to high-end restaurants and Michelin-starred establishments. You will also find a diverse range of cuisines, including Indian, Italian, Asian, American, and Mexican food. That said, you must try English dishes, such as fish & chips, scotch egg, shepherd’s pie, bangers and mash, trifle, and Yorkshire pudding. A full English breakfast with tea is a must-have. To reduce food costs, consider dining at affordable eateries. Budget travelers should spend around £10 a day on food, while others willing to spend more can expect to pay £20 and over.
Accommodation🏨
Similar to food and transportation, accommodation costs can be adjusted according to your budget. Inns and 2 to 3-star hotels charge anywhere from $60 to $90 per night. You can find mid-range hotels under $200, while luxurious 5-star resorts charge over $300 per night. Hostels and Airbnb are other cost-effective options for accommodation in London.
5-Day London Itinerary For Couples: Day 1: Central London
Morning: The Iconic Tower of London🏰
- Address: London EC3N 4AB, United Kingdom; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 10 AM – 5:30 PM
- Ticket Prices: £35.80 (Adults), £17.90 (Children 5-15)
Your romantic London trip starts at the iconic Tower of London. William the Conqueror commissioned this historic castle in the 11th century. Later, Queen Eleanor’s husband, Henry III, focused on transforming the tower into a more comfortable royal residence. The Medieval Palace at the Tower of London was built for Eleanor of Provence’s husband, Henry III, and son, Edward I. Today, this historic citadel welcomes hundreds of tourists worldwide. Explore rooms and private quarters, learn about its bloody history, meet the resident ravens, and check out the Crown Jewels.
Midday: Tower Bridge🌉
- Address: Tower Bridge Rd, London SE1 2UP, United Kingdom; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 6 PM
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram
After a historic morning expedition, your next destination is London’s symbol, Tower Bridge. It offers panoramic views of the city at any time of the day. Experience breathtaking views from the high-level walkways and see London life through the glass floors from a unique viewpoint 42 meters above the Thames. If you are lucky, you will even experience the bridge lifting below your feet. You must also check out its hidden gem, Victorian Engine Rooms, housing the original steam engines, accumulators, and coal burners that once powered the raising of the Tower Bridge.
Afternoon: Stroll Along The South Bank👫
- Address: London, UK; Google Map
- Things To Do: Romantic walks, watching theatre shows, dining, enjoying drinks
Take a leisurely stroll along the South Bank to experience London’s cultural scene. This riverside walkway is lined with trees, iconic landmarks, theatres, restaurants, and pubs, making it a bustling hub. Immerse yourself in a two-person world as you walk along the bank while enjoying views of the Thames. Tip: Visit Shakespeare’s Globe and enjoy Shakespeare’s plays in the open air.
Evening: Candlelit Dinner🍝
- Recommended Restaurant: The River Cafe
- Address: Thames Wharf, Rainville Rd, London W6 9HA, United Kingdom; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 12 PM – 2:30 PM, 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram
Close your day with a candlelit dinner at a cozy riverside restaurant. You will find many cute cafes, Michelin-starred restaurants, and budget-friendly establishments around the Thames. If you want any recommendation, The River Cafe is a perfect destination for couples. Ruth Rogers’ iconic Thames-side restaurant is a mix of glamorous and informal, allowing you to enjoy one of the best evenings of your life. Expect panoramic views, a fine Italian dining experience, and a romantic ambiance. Also, did you know Kim Kardashian and Pete Davidson once had a dinner date at this very cafe?
Day 2: Museum And Parks
Morning: The Tate Modern🎨
- Address: Bankside, London SE1 9TG, United Kingdom; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 10 AM – 6 PM
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook
Who said a London trip has to be expensive? You can save money by visiting free attractions, like the Tate Modern. This art gallery offers free entry to its significant collection of modern and contemporary art. It showcases paintings, sculptures, and large-scale installations by renowned artists from around the globe, including Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, and Yayoi Kusama. You have to pay a small fee of £5 to see ongoing exhibitions. Alternative: Visit the Victoria and Albert Museum to see blockbuster exhibitions and the permanent decorative arts collection.
Afternoon: Hyde Park💚
- Address: London, United Kingdom; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 5 AM – 12 PM
- Things To Do: Nature walks, Pond dipping, Boating, Mini beast hunting, Cycling
Relax together in the beautiful Hyde Park, aka The People’s Park. The largest royal park in Central London has something for everyone. Couples should try boating on the Serpentine Lake. Hire an electric pedalo or a traditional row boat and sail on the idyllic Serpentine. Feeling hot? How about enjoying a refreshing dip in the Serpentine Lido? You can also play a round of tennis or attend the ongoing event. The best activity is planning a picnic for just the two of you. Alternative: Head to St. James’s Park to feed pelicans.
Evening: The West End Show🎭
- Type: Musicals, Plays, Cabarets
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Price: $30 onwards
End your day with a spectacular West End show. These shows typically feature a variety of renowned musicals and plays, such as Les Misérables, The Lion King, SIX, and Showstopper, in London’s theatre district. Cabarets are another fantastic option for couples, which feature dancing divas, dazzling aerial acts, and many other entertaining performances. The West End show will offer you a memorable theatrical experience. Remember to book shows in advance and attend them on time.
Day 3: Classic London Sights
Morning: Buckingham Palace💂🏼
- Address: London SW1A 1AA, United Kingdom; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM
- Ticket Prices: £32 (Adults), £16 (Children 5-17)
You are halfway through this 5-day London Itinerary for Couples, so dedicate your third day in the city to seeing classic attractions. Your first destination is he magnificent Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the UK‘s sovereigns since 1837. You can visit the State Rooms, including the White Drawing Room, Throne Room, Ballroom, and Green Drawing Room. The highlight is witnessing the Changing of the Guard, a colorful spectacle which includes one detachment of troops taking over from another. It usually takes place at 11:00 on Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, and at 3:00 PM on the other days.
Afternoon: Westminster Abbey and more✞
- Address: Dean’s Yard, London SW1P 3PA, United Kingdom; Google Map
- Tickets: £30
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram
Spend the remainder of your day exploring renowned attractions in Westminster. First is Westminster Abbey, a World Heritage Site and a royal church which hosts coronations and royal weddings. You can attend the services and admire the abbey’s architectural beauty. Next, continue your expedition to the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. The former is a state building housing the UK Parliament. Its most famous part is the northern Clock Tower, aka the Elizabeth Tower, housing a 13.7-ton heavy Big Ben. Book a guided tour and climb 334 steps to reach the top.
Evening: Romantic Cruise On The River Thames⛵
- Duration: 3-4 hours
- Price: $120 onwards
- Includes: 3-4 course meal, welcome drinks, entertaining acts
Experience a romantic escape from London’s hustle and bustle on a Thames River dinner cruise. These cruises are usually 3 to 4 hours long and offer a 3 to 4-course meal with drinks of your choice. Some also offer live entertainment options, including live music, dance, or themed experiences. Enjoy a romantic dinner as you sail across the vast Thames River surrounded by breathtaking scenery. You can also book a sunset or afternoon tea cruise.
Day 4: Charming Neighborhoods
Morning: Streets And Markets☕
- Address: London, UK; Google Map
- Top Destinations: Portobello Road Market, Holland Park, Electric Cinema
- Things To Do: Shopping, Dining, Walking, Sightseeing
Grab a cup of coffee at one of the cafes in Notting Hill. This vibrant, trendy area boasts numerous coffeehouses, upscale boutiques, and high-end restaurants. After having your caffeine fix, wander through Notting Hill’s colorful streets and stop by Portobello Market. This road market is notorious as the world’s largest antiques market, boasting over 1,000 dealers who sell vintage antiques, retro clothing, and street food. Tip for visitors with a sweet tooth: Make your gelato stop at Gelateria 3Bis.
Afternoon: Covent Garden🛒
- Address: London, UK; Google Map
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram
- Things To Do: Shopping, Dining, Nightlife, Watching Shows
Go on a shopping spree at Covent Garden. This shopping and entertainment hub is renowned for its luxury fashion, beauty, and lifestyle offerings, boasting globally recognized brands such as Polo Ralph Lauren, Mulberry, Tiffany & Co., Chanel, Aesop, and Charlotte Tilbury. In addition to shops, the garden features 13 theatres, where you can catch classic British plays. You will also find street performers showcasing their talents. And let’s not forget the upscale restaurants that grace this area, which serve mouthwatering European cuisines.
Evening: Cocktails At A Stylish Rooftop Bar🥂
- Recommended Place: Armano Rooftop Bar
- Address: Drury House, 34-43 Russell St, London WC2B 5HA, United Kingdom; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 4 PM – 11 PM
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Instagram
Did you know Covent Garden has over 60 pubs and bars? So, end your day by enjoying a late-night drink in a stylish rooftop bar. If you want any recommendations, Amano Rooftop Bar serves the best cocktails in the area. It is located on the seventh floor of Hotel AMANO Covent Garden and offers sweeping views of the London Eye and Big Ben. Admire the views as you clink glasses with your other half on an enchanting outdoor terrace. Alternative: Book a pub crawl or a bar-hopping tour in London.
Day 5: Day Trip Or Special Experience
Option 1: Day Trip To Windsor Castle🏰
- Address: Windsor SL4 1NJ, United Kingdom; Google Map
- Opening Hours: Thursday-Sunday: 10 AM – 5:15 PM; Monday-Wednesday: Closed
- Distance from Central London: 21 miles
Since it’s your final day in London, you have two choices. The first is going on a day trip to Windsor Castle, an hour-long trip from Central London. Boasting 1,000 years of royal history, this castle has been the royal home for 40 British monarchs. Today, the grand state apartments, semi-state rooms, and treasures are on display for the public. They tell the captivating stories of the historic Windsor Castle’s past. The structure’s architectural grandeur also attracts visitors, featuring diverse styles, including Gothic, Victorian, and Georgian. A day trip to this iconic palace will be worthwhile.
Alternative: Travel to the Cotswolds to visit quaint English villages and historic towns that inspired writers like Jane Ausin and J.R.R. Tolkien.
Option 2: A Couple’s Day Before Departure🍵
- Things To Do: Afternoon tea experience, Picnicking, Riding the London Eye
If you don’t want to travel far, we have an alternative for you. The next option is to have a couple’s day, utilizing this final day for any activities that were missed in your itinerary. It doesn’t have to be a step-wise itinerary; instead, use day 5 for whatever you want to do with your partner. For instance, indulge in a couple’s afternoon tea experience in a luxury hotel or attend a tea bus party. Or, ride the London Eye for one final look at the entire city of London. You can also pack food and have a picnic in Greenwich Park. Finally, take a selfie to commemorate the trip and head to the airport.
Also Read:
- The Ultimate Guide to the 55 Best things to do in London
- Best 40 Cafes In London
- Best 40 Things to Do in London
This 5-day London Itinerary for Couples only hints at everything the Swinging City offers. You can make your trip more convenient by booking guided experiences. Accompanied by an expert guide, you will enjoy learning about London’s attractions, their history, and other fascinating facts. Discover hundreds of activities with just a click at TourTeller. You can now even compare similar-looking tours on our website~
