London, England 16-Day Trip Itinerary

Travel from Rotterdam to London

Board your train from Rotterdam Centraal to London St Pancras International.

Enjoy the scenic journey.

Hotel Check-in

Check into your accommodation in London and settle in.

Dinner in Covent Garden

Enjoy dinner in the lively Covent Garden area, perhaps at a restaurant with a cozy, traditional British atmosphere.

You might imagine Muggles and wizards dining together.

Evening Walk: Leicester Square

Take a leisurely evening stroll through Leicester Square, home to many film premieres, and perhaps imagine spotting a celebrity wizard.

Travel to Warner Bros. Studio Tour

Take a train from London Euston to Watford Junction, followed by a dedicated shuttle bus to the studios.

This journey ensures you arrive well before your booked time slot.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London

Dive into the magical world of Harry Potter at 'The Making of Harry Potter'.

Explore iconic sets like the Great Hall, Diagon Alley, and the Forbidden Forest. See original costumes, props, and special effects.

Book your tickets well in advance, especially for summer dates, as they sell out quickly. Allow plenty of time to explore all areas, including the Backlot Cafe for Butterbeer.

Return to London

Take the shuttle bus back to Watford Junction and then the train to London Euston.

Dinner near King's Cross

Have dinner near King's Cross Station, a perfect spot after a day of magic, perhaps at a pub or restaurant offering classic British fare.

Photo at Platform 9 3/4

Visit the famous Platform 9 3/4 photo opportunity at King's Cross Station.

The official shop will likely be closed, but the trolley is often accessible for photos.

The queue for the photo can be long during the day, so an evening visit might offer a shorter wait. The Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 3/4 is usually open until 9-10 PM.

Leadenhall Market (Diagon Alley)

Explore the stunning Victorian architecture of Leadenhall Market, used as the exterior for the Leaky Cauldron and Diagon Alley in 'Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone'.

The blue door used as the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron in the film is located in Bull's Head Passage within the market.

Borough Market (Leaky Cauldron)

Visit Borough Market, where the railway arches under London Bridge were used for the Leaky Cauldron exterior in 'Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban'.

Enjoy the vibrant market atmosphere.

A great spot for lunch or a snack from one of the many food stalls.

Millennium Bridge (Death Eaters Attack)

Walk across the Millennium Bridge, which famously collapses at the beginning of 'Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince' due to a Death Eater attack.

Enjoy views of St. Paul's Cathedral and Tate Modern.

Dinner in Soho

Experience the vibrant dining scene of Soho.

Perhaps choose a restaurant with a theatrical flair, reminiscent of the wizarding world's hidden gems.

Palace Theatre (Cursed Child)

Walk past the historic Palace Theatre, where 'Harry Potter and the Cursed Child' is performed.

While not a film location, it's a significant part of the extended Harry Potter universe.

Consider booking tickets for the play in advance if you wish to see it. It's a two-part show typically performed over two evenings or a matinee and evening on the same day.

Great Scotland Yard (Ministry of Magic)

Visit Great Scotland Yard, the inspiration for the Ministry of Magic's entrance.

The actual entrance from the films (a red telephone box) was a prop, but the street itself inspired the location.

House of MinaLima

Immerse yourself in the graphic art of the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films at the House of MinaLima, a gallery and shop showcasing the work of Miraphora Mina and Eduardo Lima.

Free entry, but expect queues during peak times. A must-visit for Harry Potter fans to see original prints, props, and unique merchandise.

Piccadilly Circus (Death Eaters Scene)

See Piccadilly Circus, where Harry, Ron, and Hermione apparate in 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1'.

A bustling hub of London.

Trafalgar Square (Protest Scene)

Visit Trafalgar Square, which was used for a Death Eater procession in 'Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince' and later for the Ministry of Magic protest in 'Deathly Hallows Part 1'.

Dinner in Theatre District

Enjoy dinner in London's Theatre District (West End), perhaps catching a pre-theatre meal.

Many restaurants offer set menus at this time.

Walk Tower Bridge

Walk across the iconic Tower Bridge, which flies over the Thames and is a significant London landmark, though not directly Harry Potter related, it often features in establishing shots of London.

London Eye Views

Enjoy panoramic views of London from the London Eye, offering a 'bird's eye view' of the city, including many of the Harry Potter locations you've visited.

Book tickets online in advance to save time and sometimes money.

Lunch on South Bank

Have lunch along the vibrant South Bank, with various eateries offering riverside views.

Free Afternoon & Packing

Enjoy some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping or revisit a favorite spot.

Afterwards, return to your hotel to pack and prepare for your train journey to Scotland tomorrow.

Farewell London Dinner

Enjoy a final dinner in London, perhaps in a quiet neighbourhood pub or a restaurant you've wanted to try.

Borough Market Exploration

Wander through the bustling Borough Market, an inspiration for Diagon Alley's vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy fresh produce, international foods, and unique treats. A perfect Saturday morning activity.

Saturdays are busy but offer the best atmosphere and widest selection of stalls.

Millennium Bridge Walk

Walk across the Millennium Bridge, famously destroyed by Death Eaters in 'Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince'.

Enjoy views of St. Paul's Cathedral and the Thames.

Lunch on Southbank

Enjoy lunch at one of the many cafes or restaurants along the Southbank, offering great views and a lively atmosphere.

St. Paul's Cathedral Views

Admire the exterior of St.

Paul's Cathedral, whose Geometric Staircase was used in the films for Divination Class and the Astronomy Tower.

You can enter for a fee, but exterior views are often enough for film spotters.

Shakespeare's Globe

Explore Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, a reconstruction of the original Globe, offering a glimpse into Elizabethan London and a short break from wizarding world.

Consider a guided tour.

Dinner near Borough Market

Dine at one of the many excellent restaurants or pubs in the Borough Market or Southwark area.

Westminster Abbey & Parliament

Start your day with views of Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament, iconic London landmarks.

While not Harry Potter filming locations, their grand architecture sets a magical scene.

London Top Sights Tour

Join a guided walking tour to see London’s major landmarks, including Big Ben, Westminster Abbey (again, if part of tour), The Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and Buckingham Palace.

This efficient tour covers a lot of ground.

This tour offers a comprehensive overview of London's highlights. Confirm exact meeting point upon booking.

Lunch near Covent Garden

Head to the vibrant Covent Garden area for lunch at one of its many eateries.

Covent Garden & Harry Potter Shop

Explore Covent Garden, known for its street performers, market stalls, and shops.

Visit 'The Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9¾' (official store) or other themed stores in the area for souvenirs.

The official Harry Potter shop is usually crowded, be prepared for queues.

Dinner in Theatre District

Enjoy dinner in London's Theatre District, with many options ranging from casual to fine dining.

Leadenhall Market Visit

Discover Leadenhall Market, the ornate Victorian marketplace that served as the exterior for Diagon Alley and the Leaky Cauldron in 'Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone'.

The Cauldron Pub Experience

Enjoy a magical potion-making cocktail experience or a wizard-themed lunch at The Cauldron, an immersive fantasy pub.

Booking is highly recommended, especially for potion-making classes.

Lunch at a Local Eatery

Have a casual lunch at a local restaurant before your afternoon activities.

Last Minute Souvenirs / Free Time

Use this time for any last-minute souvenir shopping, revisit a favorite spot, or relax before your journey north. Ensure your bags are packed and ready for tomorrow's train to Edinburgh.

Farewell London Dinner

Enjoy a final dinner in London, perhaps trying a cuisine you haven't yet experienced.

Travel to King's Cross Station

Make your way to London King's Cross Station, a hub of both real and magical travel.

Don't forget to spot Platform 9¾!

Scenic Train to Edinburgh

Embark on a picturesque train journey from London to Edinburgh, traversing beautiful English and Scottish landscapes.

This journey offers a comfortable and scenic way to transition between the two countries.

Book train tickets in advance for best prices and seat availability. The East Coast Main Line offers lovely coastal views.

Arrive & Hotel Check-in

Arrive at Edinburgh Waverley Station, located in the heart of the city.

Make your way to your accommodation and check in.

Initial Edinburgh Stroll

Take a relaxed stroll around your hotel's vicinity and the immediate city center to get a feel for Edinburgh's charm and atmosphere.

Dinner in Edinburgh

Enjoy your first dinner in Edinburgh, sampling local Scottish cuisine.

Edinburgh Castle Visit

Explore the historic Edinburgh Castle, a prominent landmark perched atop Castle Rock, offering panoramic views and a deep dive into Scottish history.

Its dramatic setting is truly inspiring.

Book tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid long queues.

Victoria Street & Greyfriars Kirkyard

Descend Victoria Street, known for its curved, colorful shops, which is widely believed to be an inspiration for Diagon Alley. Continue to Greyfriars Kirkyard, where tombstones bear names like 'Tom Riddell' and 'McGonagall', inspiring J.K. Rowling.

Lunch in Old Town

Enjoy lunch in the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town, with numerous charming cafes and pubs to choose from.

The Real Mary King's Close

Delve into Edinburgh's hidden history with a tour of The Real Mary King's Close, a series of underground streets and spaces with fascinating, eerie tales. While not Harry Potter-themed, it perfectly captures the mysterious atmosphere of Edinburgh.

Booking in advance is highly recommended as tours often sell out.

The Scotch Whisky Experience

Conclude your day with a visit to The Scotch Whisky Experience, located near the Castle.

Learn about the whisky-making process and perhaps enjoy a tasting. A quintessentially Scottish experience.

Various tour options are available, from basic introductions to more in-depth tastings. Booking recommended.

Dinner on the Royal Mile

Enjoy dinner at one of the many traditional Scottish pubs or restaurants along the historic Royal Mile.

Victoria Street & Grassmarket

Begin your day with a stroll down Victoria Street, often cited as the inspiration for Diagon Alley with its curved shops and colourful facades.

Afterwards, explore the historic Grassmarket below, known for its vibrant atmosphere and charming pubs.

Enjoy browsing the independent shops. Wear comfortable shoes as the streets are cobbled and can be steep.

Greyfriars Kirkyard

Visit the famous Greyfriars Kirkyard, a historic cemetery where J.

K. Rowling found inspiration for many Harry Potter character names, including Tom Riddle. Look for the gravestones of Mcgonagall, Moodie, and Scrymgeour.

Respectful visiting is essential as it is an active cemetery. You may also spot the statue of Greyfriars Bobby.

Lunch in Old Town

Enjoy a casual lunch at one of the many cafes or eateries around the Grassmarket or Candlemaker Row.

The Real Mary King's Close

Descend beneath the Royal Mile into the hidden streets of The Real Mary King's Close, where you can explore a labyrinth of underground closes and hear chilling tales of Edinburgh's past.

A great way to experience the city's darker history.

Booking in advance is highly recommended as tours can sell out. The tour involves walking up and down stairs.

Dinner in Old Town

Savour dinner at a traditional Scottish pub or a restaurant offering local cuisine in the heart of the Old Town.

Edinburgh Castle

Explore the iconic Edinburgh Castle, a historic fortress dominating the skyline from Castle Rock.

Discover its rich history, the Scottish Crown Jewels, and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Book tickets online in advance to secure your entry time and avoid long queues. Allow ample time to explore.

Lunch near Castle

Grab lunch at a cafe or pub conveniently located near the castle exit or along the Royal Mile.

St Giles' Cathedral

Visit St Giles' Cathedral, the historic 'High Kirk of Edinburgh', renowned for its stunning architecture and beautiful stained glass windows.

Take a moment to appreciate its significance in Scottish history.

Photography is usually permitted without flash. Donations are appreciated.

Royal Mile Stroll

Continue your exploration down the Royal Mile, the historic spine of Edinburgh's Old Town.

Browse souvenir shops, street performers, and soak in the medieval atmosphere.

The Scotch Whisky Experience

Embark on a guided tour to discover the secrets of Scotch whisky production.

Learn about its history and enjoy a tasting, ideal for those interested in Scotland's national drink.

Consider booking tickets in advance, especially for specific tour times. Different tour options are available.

Dinner & Evening Walk

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant along or near the Royal Mile, followed by an evening walk to see the illuminated castle.

National Museum of Scotland

Immerse yourself in Scottish history, natural history, and world cultures at the National Museum of Scotland.

From ancient artefacts to modern innovations, there's something for everyone.

Entry is free, but some special exhibitions may have a charge. Plan your visit to see specific galleries of interest.

Lunch near Museum

Have lunch at the museum cafe or one of the many eateries nearby.

Scott Monument

Admire the impressive Scott Monument, a Victorian Gothic monument to Scottish author Sir Walter Scott.

For an adventurous view, climb the 287 steps to the top (fee applies).

The climb is narrow and steep in places, not suitable for those with mobility issues or claustrophobia.

Calton Hill Views

Walk up Calton Hill for spectacular panoramic views of Edinburgh, including the castle, Arthur's Seat, and the Firth of Forth.

You'll also see some interesting monuments, like the National Monument and Nelson Monument.

The walk is relatively easy, but wear comfortable shoes. Great spot for photography, especially at sunset.

Edinburgh Books & Souvenirs

Browse for unique books and souvenirs at Edinburgh Books or other charming independent shops in the city centre.

Dinner with a View

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant offering views, perhaps near Princes Street or overlooking the city.

Palace of Holyroodhouse

Visit the Queen's official residence in Scotland, the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

Explore its historic apartments, the ruins of Holyrood Abbey, and the beautiful palace gardens.

Check opening times, as it can be closed when the Royal Family is in residence. Audio guides are available.

Lunch near Holyrood

Enjoy lunch at a cafe near the Palace of Holyroodhouse or within the Holyrood area.

Hike Arthur's Seat

Embark on a hike up Arthur's Seat, an ancient volcano and the main peak of the Holyrood Park.

The climb offers rewarding 360-degree views of Edinburgh and the surrounding landscapes.

Wear appropriate footwear for hiking. The terrain can be uneven. Allow plenty of time for the ascent and descent.

Camera Obscura & World of Illusions

Step into a world of illusions, optical tricks, and interactive exhibits.

The Camera Obscura offers a unique historical viewing experience of Edinburgh, while the 'World of Illusions' provides fun for all ages.

Pre-booking is highly recommended, especially during peak season. Located near Edinburgh Castle.

Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a special farewell dinner in Edinburgh, perhaps trying a restaurant you've wanted to visit or revisiting a favourite.

National Galleries of Scotland

Spend your morning exploring the impressive collections at the National Gallery of Scotland, featuring Scottish and international art from the Renaissance to the early 20th century.

Entry is free to the main collections. Check for any temporary exhibitions that may have a charge.

Princes Street Shopping

Take some time for last-minute souvenir shopping or simply enjoy a stroll along Princes Street, with its views of the Old Town and the castle.

Lunch in City Centre

Enjoy a relaxed lunch in the city centre before continuing with your afternoon plans.

Free Time & Packing

Use this afternoon for some relaxation, revisiting a favourite spot, or preparing for your departure tomorrow. This is a good time to ensure all your belongings are packed and ready.

Relaxed Evening Dinner

Enjoy a final, relaxed dinner in Edinburgh, reflecting on your magical journey through England and Scotland.

Hotel Check-Out

Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel and prepare for check-out.

Ensure all your belongings are packed and ready for your journey home.

Confirm check-out time with the hotel upon arrival.

Royal Mile Souvenir Hunt

Take a leisurely stroll along the historic Royal Mile.

This is your last opportunity to pick up any final souvenirs, especially unique Harry Potter themed items or Scottish crafts. Explore the small shops and soak in the atmosphere one last time.

Look for tartan, shortbread, or whisky-related gifts. There are also many Harry Potter themed shops along Victoria Street/Candlemaker Row area.

Farewell Scottish Lunch

Enjoy a final Scottish meal at a cozy pub or cafe along the Royal Mile before heading to the airport.

Savor traditional dishes one last time.

Consider trying haggis, neeps, and tatties, or a fresh seafood dish if you haven't already.

Travel to Edinburgh Airport (EDI)

Take a taxi, bus, or tram from central Edinburgh to Edinburgh Airport (EDI) for your departure.

Allow ample time for travel and check-in.

Departure from Edinburgh

Check in for your flight from Edinburgh Airport (EDI) to Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM).

Allow sufficient time for security and boarding.

Confirm your flight status and gate information. Make sure you have all necessary travel documents readily available.