London Itinerary 5 days: 11 Must-See Experiences

2. Buckingham Palace & Changing of the Guard

Buckingham Palace is best known for its ceremonial presence and the Changing of the Guard spectacle, a ceremony that draws crowds but is free to watch from public areas. The schedule can vary seasonally and for special events, so verify dates and times before you travel; the most common pattern is publicized well in advance on official royal pages. Watching the guard exchange is a lively slice of British pageantry and takes less than an hour from arrival to finish, making it a good morning activity. After the ceremony, stroll through St. James’s Park toward The Mall for classic palace views and quiet benches to rest. If the State Rooms are open in summer, the palace tour offers a rare peek at the royal apartments — these are ticketed experiences and sell out fast on busy days. Pair a Buckingham visit with nearby sites like the Queen Victoria Memorial and the Wellington Arch for a compact half-day itinerary. For food options, look for cafés near Victoria and lanes off The Mall that serve quick sandwiches and salads; many London eateries also offer vegetarian and plant-forward choices. Keep your camera handy during the procession, and arrive early for a prime viewing spot if you want unobstructed photos of the changing ceremony.