Where to Stay in London for Tourists: 27 Great Picks
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If you’re planning a trip to London, one of the biggest decisions you’ll need to make is choosing which area to stay in. This can be an extremely difficult task, considering just how big London truly is. However, there are some areas that are better than others, especially if you’re a tourist or if you’re traveling to London for the first time.
Ideally, you’ll want to stay somewhere that’s close to the different sites and has restaurants and shops nearby. Unfortunately, that doesn’t narrow things down too much, as there are many neighborhoods that still fit that bill. But to help you make a decision, we’ll share the main highlights of a couple of our favorite areas and who each neighborhood is suited for, along with hotel recommendations for each one!
Trip planning made easy:
– Make sure you plan your English getaway at the right time (avoid the worst months!)
– You’re already getting out of the city, so decide if a day trip to Paris is worth it
– If London is your home base, our London Travel Guide is a must!
What is the Best Area to Stay in London for Tourists?
Each neighborhood in London has something to offer, but if you’re here to sightsee, Covent Garden and Piccadilly are the best areas. There are lots of hotel options for all budgets, and you can easily reach most of the city’s top attractions on foot. Plus, the entire area is really well-connected by public transportation in case you want to travel to another part of town.
Westminster is another good option due to its proximity to historic landmarks and all the royal parks and palaces. But if you’d rather be out of the main tourist area, then you may consider a quieter, more residential neighborhood, like Kensington or Chelsea.
Although it may be tempting to stay further out of the city (more space, fewer crowds, cheaper accommodations), we don’t recommend doing so if it’s your first time in London. Since most of the main attractions are in central London, you’ll likely be spending a lot of time traveling back and forth. Therefore, you should really aim to stay in a hotel located in Zone 1 (although Zone 2 is also okay). Check out our London Tube Guide for more info on zones!
Where to Stay in London for Tourists: Details By Neighborhood
Check out the map for the best neighborhoods in London for tourists, we get to the best hotels in the breakdown of each neighborhood below.
Covent Garden & Piccadilly
It doesn’t get much more central than Covent Garden and Piccadilly. Located in the West End, these districts are two of the most popular areas in London due to the sheer number of attractions, sights, and entertainment venues in the area. From museums and theaters to shops and restaurants, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more lively spot in the city.
Who it’s best for: People who want to stay in the center of it all.
Highlights of Covent Garden and Piccadilly
The main reason for choosing Covent Garden and Piccadilly is the location. Besides being in the heart of London’s entertainment district, its central location makes it easy to visit other parts of the city. For example, you can walk a few blocks north to Soho for dinner or along the Thames to visit Big Ben. You’re also close to Chinatown, Buckingham Palace, and some great theaters if you’re interested in catching a live show.
Convent Garden and Piccadilly are also well connected to other parts of the city via public transportation. Many of the tube lines pass through here (including one that takes you directly to London Heathrow), so it’s easy to get around.
But at the end of the day, Convent Garden and Piccadilly are just fun, lively areas. They’re always busy, and there are lots of things to do during the day and evening. For example:
- Covent Garden: This is the former fruit and vegetable market (and London’s first modern square), after which the neighborhood is named. Nowadays, it’s a bustling shopping center with numerous pubs, cafes, and retail stores.
- London Transport Museum: Fully dedicated to the city’s transport system, this museum has an impressive collection of buses, trams, trolleybuses, and rail vehicles from the last two centuries. Located right in the Covent Garden shopping area.
- Royal Opera House: This theater is home to the Royal Opera, the Royal Ballet, and the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House. It’s the third-largest theater in the city and a great place to go for a live performance. They also offer behind-the-scenes tours and architecture tours as well (the current building dates back to the late 1990s but the original theater is from the 18th century).
Keep exploring:
25 of London’s Hidden Gems You Won’t Want to Miss (+ a map!)
12 Best London Museums Actually Worth Visiting
One Day in London: Itinerary, Video, Map, Free Download
Where to Stay in Covent Garden and Piccadilly
As the most popular tourist areas in all of London, Covent Garden and Piccadilly have a wide range of accommodation options. You’ll find all the large chain hotels as well as a few smaller boutique hotels. There are also quite a few rentals and apart-hotels here too, which is nice if you want to have a kitchen or other home comforts during your stay.
- Wilde Aparthotels: Just one block from the Thames, Wilde Aparthotels has a mix of double rooms and larger studios (with kitchens). The design is clean and modern, and the location is top-notch!
- The Resident SoHo: This super-stylish hotel is a few blocks north of Covent Garden Plaza. Each one also features a mini-kitchen with a fridge, microwave, and sink.
- Z Hotel Covent Garden: Overlooking Convent Garden Plaza, this 113-room hotel is a good option if you want to be near everything. Rooms are a bit on the small side (they’re no larger than a small bedroom), but it’s clean and has everything you need for a short stay.
- Henrietta Hotel: This boutique hotel also has a prime location right near the plaza and shopping area. Everything about this hotel is gorgeous, from the decor to the furnishings, and they also have an on-site restaurant and bar.
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Westminster
Home to some of the city’s most iconic historical sites, Westminster is another popular neighborhood right in the center of London. Between the grand palaces and majestic cathedrals, some of which date back more than 1,000 years, this is the palace to be if you are interested in learning more about British history, culture, and architecture.
Who Westminster is best for: History buffs.
Highlights of Westminster
If you do choose to stay in Westminster, then you’ll be within walking distance of some of the biggest historical attractions in all of London. While there aren’t as many shops or restaurants here compared to other neighborhoods, areas like Covent Garden and Soho are just a short walk or a couple of tube stops away.
In addition to the big-name sites, Westminster has quite a few parks (Hyde Park, Green Park, St. James Park) where you can escape the bustle of the city. But since this area is known for its historical attractions, you won’t want to miss the following sites when you’re here:
- Buckingham Palace: The royal residence of London is a must-see for anyone traveling to London. Come to watch the Changing of the Guard (usually 3-4 times a week) or book tickets to tour the grand rooms of the palace.
- Palace of Westminster and Big Ben: As the meeting place for the UK parliament, the Palace of Westminster (also known as the House of Parliament) sits right on the banks of the Thames near the Westminster Bridge. While you can’t go inside, you can admire the impressive 19th-century building, as well as its neighbor, Big Ben, from the outside.
- Westminster Abbey: This iconic church has been around for over 1,000 years and has hosted over 40 coronations and 16 royal weddings. It’s also the burial site for more than 3,300 famous figures, including prime ministers, actors, poets, and scientists.
- Trafalgar Square: This large public square commemorates the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805 and is a popular landmark known for its elaborate statues, sculptures, and fountains.
Where to stay in Westminster
Surrounded by century-old buildings and beautiful landmarks, it is no surprise that Westminster has a number of excellent upscale hotels. However, staying in a luxury hotel does come at a price. We’re sharing a few of our favorite 5-star options as well as a few places for those on a budget.
- Royal Horseguards Hotel: If you want to feel like royalty during your visit to London, then stay at the Royal Horseguards Hotel. This 5-star Victorian-style hotel is right on the river, a mere stone’s throw away from Trafalgar Square and the House of Parliament.
- Conrad London St James: This 19th-century building was once the Queen Anne Chambers, where lobbyists and civil servants would stay when doing business in the House of Parliament. Despite its history, this luxury hotel has a contemporary design with a fitness center and several award-winning restaurants.
- The Great Scotland Yard Hotel: If you’re a Hyatt member looking for a place with a great point redemption value, consider staying at this hotel near Trafalgar Square. The interior and exterior are stunning (it’s an 1820’s Grade II listed building), and they have a great bar, restaurant, and parlor that serves afternoon tea! (Learn how to book this with points!)
- Hub by Premier Inn London Hotel: Visiting Westminster on a budget? Hub by Premier Inn has two hotels (Westminster Abbey and St. James Park) right across the street from the St. James Park station. Rooms may be somewhat small, but they’re modern, clean, and close to all the main sights and attractions.
South Bank
As its name implies, South Bank is nestled on the southern embankment of the River Thames between London Bridge and Westminster Bridge. It’s a very lively riverfront area with lots of tourist attractions and cultural institutions. And on a nice sunny day (they’re more common than you think in London, as long as you don’t go during this time), it’s the best place to have a leisurely stroll by the river.
Who South Bank is best for: Those interested in culture and arts (and, of course, jaw-dropping views!).
Highlights of South Bank
To some people, South Bank may feel a bit touristy. But it’s a popular neighborhood for a reason! If you can look past the tourist traps, you’ll find a wide array of world-class artistic venues, gourmet restaurants, and charming riverside cafes.
It’s also very well connected to other parts of the city. You can simply hop across one of the bridges to reach the North Bank, or you can take the train (Waterloo Station serves Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, and Waterloo & City tube lines as well as the National Rail network).
Plus, you simply can’t beat the killer views of the city. From the Queen’s Walk (the pedestrian promenade that runs parallel to the river), you’ll get to see unobstructed views of Big Ben, St. Paul’s, and the Tower of London.
While many people come here just to walk the promenade, it’s also worth mentioning a few sites worth stopping at along the way:
- The London Eye: Enjoy panoramic 360-degree views over the entire city of London from atop the London Eye! This 443-foot Ferris Wheel is the most popular paid tourist attraction in the United Kingdom. One full rotation takes 30 minutes. If you’re celebrating a special occasion, you can also book their Champagne Pod or private Cupid’s Pod!
- Shakespeare’s Globe: This replica of Shakespeare’s Globe Theater from 1599 still puts on seasonal performances of his greatest works (even with the same original playing conditions!). If there is nothing on during your visit, you can still book a guided tour to learn more about the history and architecture of the theater.
- Tate Modern: With over 66,000 works from more than 3,000 international artists, the Tate Modern is one of the largest contemporary art museums in the world. It’s completely free to visit, so it’s definitely worth a few hours of your time.
- Borough Market: Dating back to the 12th century, this food market is one of the oldest and largest in London. Come to shop the fresh produce and delicacies, grab lunch at one of the many street food stalls, or enjoy a pint at a nearby pub (including the Market Porter, which starts pouring at 6 AM!) This is a great food tour that will take you through Borough Market.
Where to stay in South Bank
There is a diverse array of accommodation options available in South Bank, catering to a wide range of preferences and budgets. If you’re looking to splurge, there are some excellent 5-star hotels with unbelievable river views. For budget-conscious travelers, the more affordable hotels are located a bit further inland on the other side of Waterloo Station.
- Premier Inn London County Hall: This budget-friendly hotel has an amazing location one block from Waterloo Station and the London Eye! Rooms are surprisingly spacious, and there’s even an on-site restaurant for breakfast and dinner if you’re feeling too tired after a day of sightseeing to eat out.
- London Marriott Hotel County Hall: With 5-star service and 5-star views, this luxury hotel is a great option in South Bank. Some rooms have open views or balconies that look directly out towards the river, London Eye, or Big Ben. There’s also a restaurant (with a bar and afternoon tea), a fitness studio, and an indoor pool.
- Ruby Lucy Hotel: Located behind Waterloo Station, Ruby Lucy is a seriously stylish boutique hotel located in a historic London building. They have good breakfast, a cocktail bar (often with live music), and guitar rentals!
Looking for a tour to add to your itinerary? Our Activities Database has a growing list of only the best tours!
Mayfair & Marylebone
Running all the way from Green Park up to the bottom of Regent’s Park are the districts of Mayfair and Marylebone. These two upscale neighborhoods are dissected by Oxford Street (a shopaholic’s mecca), with Mayfair to the south and Marylebone to the north.
While this area has its fair share of tourist attractions, the main reason to stay in this area is for the shopping. With tons of department stores, international brands, and boutique shops, it’s quite a bustling place during the day. And when night falls, you’ll also find lots of amazing restaurants, pubs, and cocktail bars in this area.
Who Mayfair & Marylebone are best for: People excited about shopping and great boutique hotels.
Highlights of Mayfair & Marylebone
Shopping, shopping, and more shopping! These neighborhoods definitely attract a more sophisticated crowd. But even if you aren’t interested in department stores or boutiques, Mayfair and Marylebone are still great choices if you’re wondering where to stay in London for your first time. That’s because its central location next to Soho, Covent Garden, and Westminster makes it easy to explore other vibrant neighborhoods in London.
Mayfair and Marylebone also have a very charming village-like atmosphere. So, if you want to be near all the main sights and attractions but in a more authentic atmosphere (that isn’t overly touristy), then either destination is a good option.
Here are a couple of attractions that you’ll find in the Mayfair and Marylebone area:
- Bond and Oxford Street: If you’re in London to shop, then you’ll likely be spending a lot of your time on both Bond Street and Oxford Street. Oxford Street is massive and has all the huge shops and brands from around the world. Bond street is more for high-end fashion like Gucci, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton.
- Sherlock Holmes Museum: Located at the address where the fictional detective lived, this museum is filled with furnishings and memorabilia from the Victorian era. With only four rooms, it’s a relatively small museum, but it’s still a good way to pass the time if you have an hour to kill.
- Grosvenor Square: This is one of the prettiest squares in Mayfair due to the historic Georgian buildings (many of which are embassies) that surround it. The US embassy used to be here before it moved to Nine Elms, although there’s still a statue of President Franklin D. Roosevelt to commemorate the relationship between the US and the UK.
Where to stay in Mayfair & Marylebone
With streets lined with elegant Georgian townhouses, Mayfair has always been one of the most desirable neighborhoods in London. As such, it’s where you’ll find some of the most luxurious hotels, many having that classic old-world charm that caters to wealthy, affluent travelers.
Marylebone may not have the same sophisticated reputation as Mayfair, but it’s quickly becoming the trendier (and more affordable) place of the two. You’ll find a mix of nice boutique hotels and cozy apartments here.
- Treehouse Hotel: With many rooms featuring a panoramic skyline view, staying here feels like you’re perched in your very own treehouse! The rooms and common areas are beautifully done, and they host fun events like DJ nights, yoga workshops, and cooking classes. It’s also situated between both areas, just a few blocks from Oxford Street.
- Dorset Square Hotel: Located inside a beautiful Regency townhouse in Marylebone, this cozy 38-room hotel brings a bit of the English countryside to downtown London. You can even spend time outdoors in the private garden square, which was once the site of Thomas Lord’s first cricket ground.
- Holmes Hotel: This modernly posh hotel inside four beautifully restored Georgian buildings is one of Marlebone’s best-kept secrets. Inspired by Sherlock Holmes, the hotel’s decor is a mix of fun antiques, elegant artwork, and contemporary furnishings.
Kensington and Chelsea (+ Knightsbridge)
Staying in the center of the city has its pros and cons. While its nice to be within walking distance of all the top attractions, the areas we mentioned above can be quite hectic and chaotic. If you’re someone who prefers a quieter neighborhood that’s still within proximity to the main sights in the city, then we recommend staying in Kensington or Chelsea.
These districts are situated west of Hyde Park and Buckham Palace. They feel more like residential neighborhoods with their grand Victorian buildings and wide open green spaces. And while they’re a bit off the main tourist track, there are still plenty of boutiques, cafes, and local eaters lining the leafy streets.
Knightsbridge is another small but affluent area in between Kensington and Chelsea known for its high-end shops and restaurants (properties here are some of the highest in all of London!). It’s also where you’ll find the iconic Harrod’s department store.
Who Kensington, Chelsea, and Knightsbridge are best for: people looking for a quieter, slightly more (posh) residential experience
If the countryside is calling you, the Cotswolds won’t disappoint:
Things to Do in the Cotswolds (in the 5 Best Villages)
The Best Cotswolds Villages: Map, Where to Stay, What to Do
Cotswolds or Bath: Which One Should You Visit?
Highlights of Kensington, Chelsea, and Knightsbridge
The main reason to stay in any of these areas is for a residential experience. With tree-lined streets, pretty parks, and cozy cafes, staying here will truly give you the feeling of living like an upper class Londoner.
Keep in mind that many of the main sites are a ways away (Convent Garden and South Bank are both roughly 30 minutes away on the tube). However, you won’t have to deal with hoards of crowds or tourists everywhere you turn.
But you don’t have to leave Keningston or Chelsea to get your dose of art and culture. There are still some great things to see right here in these neighborhoods:
- Kensington Palace: This royal residence was once the former home of Queen Victoria and Princess Diana. You can visit and walk through the hallways and rooms that once belonged to the royals of the British monarchy.
- Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A): The free V&A Museum has an impressive collection of art and design (the permanent collection has over 2.2 million objects!) that spans more than 5,000 years. You’ll find everything from textiles and glass to prints and pottery. Don’t forget to visit the V&A Cafe to have coffee surrounded by beautiful mosaics and stained glass works.
- Natural History Museum: Dinosaurs, wildlife, space travel and more! The Natural History Museum in Kensignton is full of interesting exhibits. Plus, it’s a great place to go with kids, as there area lot of interactive areas catering to younger visitors.
- Royal Albert Hall: As one of London’s most prestigious venues, the Royal Albert Hall has been a London institution for over 150 years. From symphonies and ballets to rock concerts and comedy shows, you’ll have no problem coming up with a reason to snag tickets to one of the live performances here.
Pro Tip: if you’re traveling with little ones, check out our favorite playgrounds in London. These are easy stops all around the city, and your kids will thank you!
Where to stay in Kensington, Chelsea, and Knightsbridge
- Sydney House Hotel: This cozy and stylish 21-room boutique hotel has an excellent location in the heart of Chelsea. Built inside two converted Grade II listed townhouses, the hotel also has a free breakfast and private rooftop with views over the city.
- Kensington Hotel: The Kensington Hotel is the perfect destination for a little pampering. There’s an on-site restaurant (and afternoon tea service), a fitness studio, and a spa. It really is 5-star service at its finest!
- 11 Cadogan Gardens: With rooms, suites, and 1-,2-, and 3-bedroom apartments, this upscale boutique hotel has something for every type of traveler. It has a charming British feel and makes the perfect getaway if you are seeking that laid-back village vibe.
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Shoreditch
Shoreditch is one of those neighborhoods that has changed drastically over the last few decades. Once an industrial area for the working-class, Shoreditch has grown to become one of the hippest and trendiest places in all of London.
And it’s still riding that wave of gentrification today. While parts of the neighborhood are still gritty (in a cool way), there has also been a huge construction boom of tall, modern buildings.
Who Shoreditch is best for: Creatives, trendsetters, or those interested in seeing the more alternative side of London.
Highlights of Shoreditch
To put it simply, Shoreditch is a really cool area. It’s completely different from the tourist neighborhoods around Covent Garden, Westminster, or South Bank. And while it may not be as “underground” as it was a few years ago, it’s still the place to go if you want to see a more alternative side of London.
Think lofty warehouse art galleries, graffiti-covered brick buildings (including a few Banksy masterpieces!), and pop-up shops for street snacks, artwork, or handicrafts. If you’re looking for a neighborhood that embodies the modern, diverse side of London, Shoreditch is where you’ll want to stay.
And while it feels like a completely different world, Shoreditch is still well-connected to other parts of London. For example, you can take the tube be in Convent Garden in 30 minutes or Buckingham Palace in 45.
But if you’re looking for local things to see, here are a few things not to miss:
- Brick Lane and the Truman Markets: Historically home to London’s Bangladeshi community, this street is littered with ethnic restaurants, vintage shops, and quaint cafes. It’s also where you’ll find the Truman Markets, a brewery warehouse with six individual markets inside.
- Columbia Road Flower Market: Every Sunday from 8 AM to 3 PM, head to the Columbia Road Flower Market for all the plants, flowers, and fruit trees you can imagine! Even if you aren’t buying any foliage, it’s still worth a visit to see all the beautiful colors (plus, there are some cute shops and cafes on Columbia Road).
- Boxpark: Built in 2011, Boxpark was a pop-up shopping mall made entirely of old shipping containers. There are lots of street food stalls and independent boutiques to browse. They also host some pretty cool events here, like dance classes, DJ nights, art workshops, and karaoke.
Where to stay in Shoreditch
If you’re looking for old-world charm or 5-star luxury, you’re not going to find it in Shoreditch. Accommodation tends to cater to the young and trendy, so except to find lots of design-centric hotels that reflect the areas ecclictic personality.
One big advantage of staying in Shoreditch is the price. While there are definitely quite a few boutique hotels, you can also find some budget-friendly accommodation options as well.
- Mama Shelter: Mama Shelter has locations around the world, but their location in Shoreditch is one of the coolest! This playful hotel has a colorful restaurant, a garden bar, a co-working space, and even rentable karaoke rooms! They also host DJ nights and other special events throughout the month.
- The Hoxton Shoreditch: If you want a more traditional boutique hotel experience, then book one of the tasteful and modern rooms at the Hoxton. We also like how there’s on-site grill restaurant and a Peruvian-themed rooftop bar.
- CitizenM Shoreditch: This hotel is smack-dab in the middle of the Shoredtich area. It has a huge common area with a restaurant, cafe, and lots of working space. Plus, all rooms feature XL beds (which is surprisingly a rare thing considering some of the small room sizes in London)!
Victoria, Pimlico, and Belgravia
The neighborhoods of Victoria, Pimlico, and Belgravia may not be as well-known as other areas on this list, but it’s still a great option for those wanting to be close to London’s main attractions. Because it’s situated between Westminster and Chelsea, you can easily get to pretty much all the main historical and cultural sights on foot. Plus, there are quite a few gems here, from charming boutique hotels to cute pubs, that aren’t overly crowded by heaps of tourists.
Victoria is a more commercial area home to the Victoria Station (the second-busiest station in the UK). To the north of Victoria is Belgravia, an affluent neighborhood with beautiful buildings and townhouses. And to the south is Pimlico, a quiet residential neighborhood with some nice architecture as well.
Who it’s best for: people looking for easy access to Victoria train station but with many quieter hotel options tucked away down nice streets.
Highlights of Victoria, Pimlico, and Belgravia
Besides being a bit further from the hustle and bustle of the main tourist hotspots, you should stay in Victoria, Pimlico, or Belgravia if you want to be close to London Victoria Station. This station has a direct line to Gatwick Airport and Brighton, as well as multiple connections to many other cities and towns in England and the UK.
Although there aren’t any huge tourist sights here, the atmosphere is very peaceful. There are some lovely parks, photogenic streets, and wonderful independent shops and cafes.
- Little Ben Clock: As the mini, cast-iron version of Big Ben, Little Ben is located just down the street from Victoria Station. There’s not much to do besides see it, but it is still a fun hidden gem!
- Eccleston Yards: If you’re looking to do some shopping or grab a bite to eat, head to Eccleston Yards. This open-air courtyard has some good restaurants, independent retailers, and different types of fitness studios.
- Eaton Square: Home to prime ministers, actors, and even royalty, this is one of the most prestigious streets in all of London. While it is normally closed to the public, you can go during Open Garden Squares Weekend (in June) to see this exclusive park for yourself.
Where to stay in Victoria, Pimlico, and Belgravia
- The Goring Hotel: Everything about this 5-star hotel in Belgravia is done tastefully. Each room is lined with silk on the walls and outfitted with marble bathrooms and Italian linens. You can also enjoy fine British cuisine in the dining room, afternoon tea on the Veranda, or a well-crafted cocktail in the bar.
- CitizenM London Victoria: This hotel is literally across the street from Victoria Station, so it’s a good option for a late-night arrival or early-morning flight. Rooms are small, but there’s a huge common area and a restaurant where you can hang out (or work).
- Georgian House Hotel: The Georgian House Hotel in Pimlico offers individually designed bedrooms in a chic Victorian townhouse setting. Harry Potter fans can also book one of their wizard chamber rooms (with faux castle details and a wood-burning stove) or a wizard-themed afternoon tea!
The City
Although the name might be a little confusing, the City of London is actually an area on the North Bank that starts east of Convent Garden and stretches all the way to the Tower Bridge. It contains the oldest part of London (where the Romans settled) as well as some of the most impressive modern skyscrapers as well. You may also hear the City referred to as the Square Mile.
Who it’s best for: Business travelers or those wanting a mix of modern sights and historical landmarks
Highlights of The City
The City is London’s financial center and central business district, home to both the Bank of England and the London Stock Exchange. While more than 1 million people work in this area, fewer than 10,000 people actually live here. However, it still has tons of great hotels, restaurants, and sights that make it worth visiting, including:
- St. Paul’s Cathedral: Designed by Sir Christopher Wren, St. Paul’s Cathedral is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. It’s been the sight of funerals, jubilees, royal weddings, and other notable services.
- Bank of England Museum: Located inside the Bank of England, this is a free museum with a large collection of coins, banknotes, art, and furnishings from the late 1600s until today.
- Leadenhall Market: This market has been around since the 14th century. Come here for the boutique retailers, fine-dining restaurants, and beautiful cafes, or simply to admire the stunning ornate building and roof of the open-air market.
- Tower of London: Once a historic 11th-century fortress, the Tower of London is now home to the Crown Jewels. While many people come just to see the royal crowns, scepters, and swords, the architecture of this defense structure is worth a visit alone. While you’re here, take one of the guided tours led by the Yeoman Warders (or Beefeaters as they are more commonly referred to).
Where to stay in The City
The accommodation options in the City are seemingly endless. You’ll find everything from luxury boutiques to self-catering aparthotels. And while it tends to be a business-oriented area, thankfully, there are plenty of hotels that feel more like home rather than an office!
- Vintry and Mercer: This intimate boutique hotel has been beautifully restored to represent both the City’s modern and historical personality. There’s a restaurant, rooftop terrace, bar, and fitness studio on-site.
- Cove Cannon Street: Down the street from St. Paul’s Cathedral sits this serviced apart hotel. Guests will have a spacious living room and kitchen in their room and access to a common lounge and fitness studio.
- Locke at Broken Wharf: This is another aparthotel option right on the Thames. It’s great for digital nomads or business travelers as there’s a coworking space, coffee shop, and fitness studio in the building.
- Z Hotel City: If you want to be within walking distance of Covent Garden, the Z Hotel City is a decent option. Rooms are small but they are clean and, most importantly, affordable!
Where To Not Stay When Visiting London For the First Time
Unlike other big cities around the world, there really aren’t any places in London that are unsafe for travelers. But if you’re wondering where to stay in London for your first time, we highly recommend choosing a neighborhood that is close to the sights and attractions you want to see.
While you may find bigger rooms or better deals in a residential area on the outskirts, keep in mind that you’ll be spending lots of time (and money) commuting to central London. So, if you only have a short time to explore, it’s worth booking something central with attractions, restaurants, and activities outside your front door.
Again, try to look for accommodation in Zone 1, or at the furthest, Zone 2.
How to Get Around While Visiting London
London has an excellent public transportation system, although with so many options and routes, it can seem a bit overwhelming. But as a tourist, you’ll likely either be taking the tube, bus, or taxi to different places in the city. Of course, you can always walk to where you need to go too! We have a guide on taking the tube in London to simplify the process.
There’s the London Underground, also called the Tube, and the Overground, which is the main Metro that covers central London and parts of Greater London. Fares are determined by zone (if you’re staying in the main tourist area, you’ll likely only need to pay for Zone 1 or Zone 2).
Another option is to take the bus. Since they have to deal with London traffic, they can be a bit slower than the tube. But they are a flat fee (not priced by zones) and many of them are double-decker so they offer amazing views of the city!
If you choose to travel by public transportation, you can purchase an Oyster card that you can top up with a specified amount to use on rides. Or, if you have a contactless credit card, you can simply tap the card when you enter and have it automatically deducted. Using a contactless card is hassle-free and doesn’t require you to guess how much to put on your Oyster card.
Taxis and minicabs are available in London, but they are very expensive to get wherever you’re going. Rideshare apps like Uber, Bolt, or Ola are also available and can be a bit cheaper. Just remember, London traffic can be nasty, so you’re sometimes better off taking public transportation if you’re in a rush.
Surely you’ve heard of London’s infamous black cabs and you’re probably wondering how to take one. You can hail one any time or use an app like freenow or Gett to request or reserve a ride. London’s black cab drivers are some of the most knowledgeable in the world, so hopping in a black cab for a tour is also an excellent option.
Notice we didn’t cover renting a car in London. That’s because you just shouldn’t! Public transportation is a much easier way to get around London. If you want to get out of the city, say to the Cotswolds or Bath, there are still plenty of ways to do so without a car. The Cotswolds are best explored with a car so we like to pick one up in Oxford. That way we don’t have to deal with London traffic.
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