The Ultimate Free London Itinerary: A Day 1 Walking Tour

December 13, 2025

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Planning London doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

London is incredible. But planning a London itinerary, especially on the crucial first day, can feel like a full-time job.

Should you book this ticket for a major London attraction? In which direction should you walk? Is it even possible to see the iconic sites without spending a fortune? How much can you handle with the time difference of a transatlantic flight?

As a London travel expert and consultant, I know the anxiety that comes with maximizing your time and budget. That’s why I’ve designed the perfect solution: the ultimate free London first day walking itinerary.

This is more than just a list of free places to visit in London; it is a strategically optimized self-guided route that connects the city’s most famous landmarks. It’s a day that will make you say, “WOW! I’m in London for my dream trip!’

This London itinerary is proof that with expert guidance, you can enjoy valuable experiences without ever opening your wallet. Consider this premium London travel tip, tested by an American living in London since 2013.

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Stops 1-3: Start in the heart of London’s grandeur

Trafalgar Square

The atmosphere: It’s probably the most ‘London’ place you can be. It directly connects to the Mall (the royal family ceremonial route you see on TV), the National Gallery (a large iconic building) and sits on the edge of the famous Piccadilly Circus.
Expert opinion: I recommend to all my travel consulting clients that this is the BEST area to book a hotel for maximum comfort. But be prepared to pay extra for the excellent location. It’s also minutes from dozens of West End theaters and excellent restaurants. For more tips, check out my article: Travel Tips for Choosing a Hotel When Visiting London.

2. The National Gallery

The atmosphere: It houses masterpieces by artists like Van Gogh, Da Vinci and Turner. Entrance to the main collection is free. It’s a perfect, low-commitment cultural hit: you can spend 30 minutes there to see a specific wing or just admire the impressive facade.
Note on entry: If the main collection is free, entry is managed. Although they have a walk-up line, you should expect to wait in line. It is always advisable to book a free, timed entry slot in advance to minimize waiting. (See my guide to essential pre-planning: What You Need to Plan Ahead for a Trip to London).

3. The Mall Walk (to Buckingham Palace)

The atmosphere: This large tree-lined avenue is the ceremonial road leading directly to the palace. It’s a beautiful and essential walk, an ideal way to stretch your legs and shake off the stiffness of travel.

Hotels

If you haven’t yet booked your hotel for your trip to London, here’s an interactive map to help you get started! It is based on the most central location in the city.

Stop 4-6: Monarchy, Parliament and River Crossing

4. Buckingham Palace (exterior view)

The atmosphere: An obligatory photo stop.
Important notice: Indoor tours only operate for a limited time during the summer months. If you don’t want to waste time dealing with large crowds, delays, and possible last-minute cancellations due to rain, you should just enjoy the majestic exterior and save your energy rather than waiting for the changing of the guard ceremony. And note that this formal ceremony, with all the pomp and circumstance you see on TV, doesn’t happen every day of the week. So make sure you know when to go!

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5. St. James Park and Birdcage Walk

The atmosphere: Walk up Birdcage Walk past St. James’s Park. This provides a refreshing green break between the Royal and Parliamentary areas.

6. Westminster Abbey, Big Ben and Parliament

The atmosphere: The historic heart of British democracy. You’ll see the exterior of the Abbey (a site of royal coronations and weddings), the recently renovated Elizabeth Tower (home to Big Ben), and the Houses of Parliament.

Stop 7-8: Westminster Bridge and South Bank Finish

7. Cross Westminster Bridge

The atmosphere: The most rewarding view of the Houses of Parliament, the river and the city skyline.
Local advice: The river is the Thames, pronounced “Tems”, which rhymes with “precious stones”.
Safety Notice: When crossing, pay particular attention to your cell phone and personal items. Pickpockets often operate on and around the bridge, sometimes disguised as entertainers or tourists.

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8. The South Bank Promenade and the London Eye

Dinner tip: The South Bank offers many excellent dining options. Our favorite, the Anchor (Bankside), has great views and a lively atmosphere, especially on a sunny day.

The atmosphere: A fantastic and lively riverside walk. If you don’t plan on riding the London Eye, just walk past it to take some amazing photos.

Photo tip: This place is perfect at dusk. You can potentially take great photos of the London Eye both during Golden Hour and at night, providing a spectacular end to this free walking tour of the London itinerary.

Free walking route in London: what’s next?

Now you have a proven, stress-free plan to experience the best of London’s sights for free on your arrival day. You have successfully overcome the first obstacle in your journey.

This free walking route is a small sample of the planning efficiency and insider knowledge you get from a curated guide to London’s finest experiences.

If you’re overwhelmed by all the social media videos and open browser tabs you’ve come up with from your searches, stop wasting hours scrolling and start maximizing every moment. Use my expertise to turn your entire trip to London into a seamless and unforgettable experience.

Let’s plan your trip!

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