5 Days Perfect Itinerary for London and Edinburgh
Craving a taste of British history, culture, and charm? This 5-day itinerary whisks you through the bustling streets of London and the enchanting city of Edinburgh, offering a glimpse into the best of both worlds.
Day 1: Arriving in London and Royal Delights
Morning: Touch down in London and check into your central hotel. After freshening up, dive into the iconic sights. Start with Buckingham Palace, witnessing the Changing of the Guard ceremony (schedule permitting).
Afternoon: Head to Westminster Abbey, a stunning Gothic church steeped in royal history. Next, climb the iconic Big Ben (officially Elizabeth Tower) for breathtaking panoramic views (be sure to book tickets in advance). End at the Houses of Parliament, the seat of British government.
Evening: Indulge in a traditional afternoon tea at a charming cafe like The Wolseley or Sketch. Afterward, explore the vibrant Piccadilly Circus, a dazzling display of neon lights and bustling crowds.
Day 2: London: Museums & Majesty
Morning: Dedicate the morning to a world-renowned museum. Choose from the British Museum’s vast collection of antiquities, the National Gallery’s masterpieces, or the V&A’s exploration of design and fashion.
Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll along the River Thames, soaking in picturesque views. Embark on a scenic Thames cruise for a different perspective, or visit Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, a reconstruction of the Elizabethan playhouse.
Evening: Enjoy a quintessential London experience – a West End musical. From the timeless classics like Les Misérables to contemporary hits, there’s something for everyone.
Day 3: London Delights & Edinburgh Calling
Morning: Explore Borough Market, a haven for foodies with its fresh produce, international delicacies, and lively atmosphere. Grab a delicious lunch here before catching your train to Edinburgh.
Afternoon: The scenic journey by train takes roughly 4.5 hours. Relax, admire the picturesque countryside, and get ready for the charm of Edinburgh. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and unwind after the travel.
Day 4: Edinburgh: History & Haunts
Morning: Start your Edinburgh exploration with the majestic Edinburgh Castle, perched atop a volcanic rock. Explore its ancient halls, crown jewels, and stunning views.
Afternoon: Descend from the castle and wander down the Royal Mile, the main artery of the Old Town. Filled with historical buildings, quirky shops, and street performers, it’s a captivating experience. Take a detour down Victoria Street, a colorful and whimsical street.
Evening: Embark on a spooky ghost tour. Edinburgh boasts a rich history of hauntings, and these tours offer a thrilling and informative way to learn about the city’s darker side.
Day 5: Edinburgh: Nature & Farewell
Morning: If you’re feeling adventurous, climb Arthur’s Seat, a dormant volcano offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape. Alternatively, take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Princes Street Gardens, a haven of peace in the heart of the city.
Afternoon: Spend your final hours in Edinburgh browsing the shops on Princes Street, a shopper’s paradise. Visit the National Museum of Scotland for a fascinating journey through Scottish history and culture.
Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional Scottish pub, savoring hearty local dishes and soaking in the lively atmosphere. Raise a toast to your incredible British adventure!
Finding Cheap Train Tickets:
Book in Advance: Train tickets between London and Edinburgh can be expensive, especially if you book close to your travel date. To get the best deals, aim to book at least a few weeks, or even months, in advance. Additionally try Lumo tickets to best saving on your train tickets.
Be Flexible with Travel Dates and Times: If you are flexible with your travel dates and times, you may be able to find cheaper tickets by traveling on weekdays or at off-peak times.
Consider Alternative Train Companies: Several train companies operate between London and Edinburgh, so be sure to compare prices before you book. Website like Cheap Train Tickets: https://www.cheaptraintickets.co.uk/ can help you search for the best deals across different operators.
Look for Split Ticketing: Split ticketing involves buying two separate tickets for different legs of your journey, which can sometimes be cheaper than buying a single through ticket. However, this can be more complex and may not always be the best option.
Conclusion:
This 5-day itinerary offers a perfect blend of iconic landmarks, cultural experiences, and culinary delights in both London and Edinburgh. Whether you’re exploring historic castles, indulging in West End shows, or savoring local delicacies, this itinerary ensures an unforgettable journey through two of the UK’s most captivating cities.
