One week in London with a 13-year-old teen

Over a week, you’ll be able to see quite a few places with your teen. I’d recommend checking out some Street Art with them—it’ll be right up their alley (See Street Art itineraries in London here). Head to Greenwich, visit a few museums (let them help pick which ones), Tower Bridge, the London Eye, Hyde Park... Maybe even the Harry Potter studios if they’re a fan (book as early as possible).

For accommodation, consider staying a bit outside the center if you’re on a budget, but check where your flight departs from and at what time. Some low-cost flights leave super early, so it might be better to stay near the airport or on a direct tube line.

This link has some great tips for budget-friendly places to stay in London.

If you're into shopping, there's plenty to do at 13! Oxford Street is a real shopping center. There's an incredible toy store (even for adults) on Regent Street (I won't name the brand). And also the candy store on Swiss Ct....

Horse Guards is a fun and accessible moment for young people. (There was a whole summer camp group when I was there, the kids loved it)

Other ideas.... Boat tour on the Thames (possible speedboat/jet boat) Eating in Chinatown in the evening The British Museum, a bit like going to the Louvre in Paris with kids (Egypt wing/Greece wing/samurai armor/...) Getting around by bike from park to park Snacking at Borough Market Visiting the military ship and/or galleon Tower of London

London is actually very affordable for young people. But it all depends on the budget....

Thanks so much for your reply. I thought this forum wasn’t active anymore… I’m glad I was wrong!

I’ll check out the links.

I haven’t booked the flight yet. I’ll take care of that. It’s true that flights are often at 8 AM.

What time does the Tube start running?

In Portugal two years ago, we took an Uber to get to the airport easily… but here… I don’t know if we can find cheap taxis?

Harry Potter would be a hit with my son, but it looks like it’s 270 € for two… way too expensive!

Thanks for your reply!

Is Horse Guard the changing of the guard?

Bikes... can we rent them easily?

In Paris, we took our non-electric scooters on the train and it was great! But by plane this time... I don’t think that’s possible, or it’d be with an extra fee.

Where do we find the boat?

I’m chiming in a bit late, but if it’s not all wrapped up yet...

A tip is to book everything in advance, including free museums—otherwise, you’ll face an insane queue and risk not getting in if it’s full.

I’d add to the sightseeing suggestions: the Lego store in Piccadilly Circus, which will interest even your teen! Right across from it, the M&M’s shop (with outrageous prices!).

With a teen, you *have* to check out Camden Town. You can get there by taking a little tourist boat ride from Little Venice. Nothing exceptional, but it’s original and not too expensive.

For accommodation, we stayed in London Stratford (Aparthotel Adagio—pretty pricey, but the amazing breakfast lets you get by with just a sandwich at lunch, and you can cook in the evening since there’s a supermarket nearby). It also has the advantage of being close to the Tube and on the line to Stansted Airport if you’re flying with a low-cost airline. For a slightly gentler price (though still...), the Ibis Style London Southpark is very well located.