How to Spend 4 Days at London in December

11/2/20252 min read

Big Ben, London
Big Ben, London

This is my 4 day itinerary and guide to explore London, UK during December :) Enjoy!

Day 1: Central London Highlights

Tip: From London Airport (Heathrow) take the Underground to Waterloo Station if you are staying at any hotel in the city center (check hotel location using Apple maps if you have an iPhone works amazing).

I stayed at the Park Plaza London Waterloo hotel 15 min walking to Big Ben.

Note: We only did these two activities the first day because we arrived at the city in the morning and the hour difference made us super tired that we had to head back to the hotel and rest.

Day 2: Museums and Shopping

  • British Museum: Discover world-renowned artifacts and exhibitions.

  • Covent Garden: Explore shops, street performers, and the market. 13 min walking from British museum.

  • Leicester Square: Check out the area for theaters and more shopping.

  • Piccadilly Circus: See the famous neon signs and explore nearby areas.

  • London Eye: Enjoy panoramic views of the city. 9 min walking distance from Big Ben.

Day 3: Historical and Cultural Exploration

  • Buckingham Palace: Watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony (check the schedule in advance) only happens Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. 18 min walking distance to Big Ben.

  • Tower of London: Learn about the history and see the Crown Jewels.

  • Tower Bridge: Walk across the bridge and visit the Tower Bridge Exhibition. 3 min walking from Tower of London.

  • Borough Market: Enjoy lunch and explore this historic food market. 13 walking from the bridge.

  • Southbank Walk: Stroll along the Thames, and explore the Southbank area. Take a cruise along the Thames river and enjoy a panoramic scene (recommended to do at night).

Day 4: Enjoy your last day at the city. We visited during December to enjoy the Christmas decorations.

Christmas must see places

  • Oxford street (Beautiful Christmas lights and shops)

  • Southbank Centre Winter Market (along the Thames)

  • Covent Garden

  • Trafalgar Square (and its giant Christmas tree)

Practical Tips:

  • Book ahead for popular attractions, especially if evenings are involved (lights, trails).

  • Get there early in the night when things are lit up; darkness helps make the decorations pop.

  • Expect crowds, especially in central areas (Covent Garden, Southbank) — plan time accordingly.

  • Mind the date & time: Some markets and events run only until late December or early January.

  • Weather: December in London can be chilly and damp.

  • Christmas Day (Dec 25) may have many closures. If your trip includes that day, plan carefully.

  • Travel: Use an Oyster Card or contactless payment for the tube (you can also use any contactless credit card)

    Enjoy the city :) E&A