London

History, markets & a pub on every corner

Ancient and endlessly reinventing, London stitches together village-like neighbourhoods, world-beating museums (most of them free), riverside walks and food from every corner of the globe. Come for the icons, stay for the markets, mews and the perfect pub – these are the spots locals actually send their friends to.

Good to know

2,000+

years of history, from a Roman wall to a glass-and-steel skyline

170+

museums – and many of the very best are free to enter

300+

languages spoken across a city of nearly 9 million people

~47%

of Greater London is green space, park or garden

Local tips

Tap a contactless card or phone on the Tube and buses – no Oyster needed, and daily fares cap automatically.
So many world-class museums (British Museum, Tate, the V&A) are free – just walk in.
Stand on the right on Tube escalators, and let people off before you board.
Sunday is market day: Columbia Road, Brick Lane and Broadway Market are at their best.

Browse London

London at a glance

Ideal stay: 2 to 3 days
Best time to visit: spring and autumn
Highlights: British Museum and Tate Modern
Where to stay: Clerkenwell and Shoreditch
Local picks: 48 hand-chosen recommendations
Getting around: walkable, plus easy public transport

Local tips for London

Stories and neighbourhood know-how from our local guides.

Local tipsWhere to Stay in London: Best Neighborhoods for First-TimersWhere to stay in London? A local guide to the best areas, from the central West End and South Bank…

Local tips3 Days in London: The Perfect First-Timer’s ItineraryA local's perfect 3-day London itinerary: royal Westminster and the South Bank, the Tower and East End, plus world-class museums…

Local tipsBest Things to Do in London: A Local’s GuideThe best things to do in London, chosen by locals: top sights, where to eat, where to stay and the…

Where to stay in London

Compare live hotel prices and availability on the map. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Fitzrovia, Central London

YHA London Central

Why it matters: YHA is a long-standing registered charity, and staying at one of its hostels directly funds its work giving young people and families of limited means access to travel and the outdoors

King’s Cross

YHA London St Pancras

Clean, sociable and steps from St Pancras and the Eurostar – unbeatable for the price.

★ 4.2

Before you go

Things we recommend sorting before any trip. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Travel medical insuranceSafetyWing's Nomad Insurance works like a subscription: pay by the month, cover in most countries worldwide, and you can sign up even after your trip has started.Check prices on SafetyWing

Data the moment you landAn Airalo eSIM gets your phone online in 200+ destinations before you even leave the airport - no SIM swap, no surprise roaming bill. Use code UNLIMITED4YOU for 15% off your first Unlimited eSIM (through Sept 30, 2026).Get an eSIM on Airalo

Book your trip to London

Find the best hotels and book tours and experiences, all in one place.

Find hotels in London Book tours and experiences

London travel FAQ

How many days do you need in London?

Two to three days is enough to enjoy the highlights of London at a relaxed pace. See our London itinerary guide for a day-by-day plan.

Where is the best area to stay in London?

Stay central and walkable to the main sights for a first visit. Our where to stay in London guide breaks down the best neighbourhoods.

What are the best things to do in London?

Browse the local picks above, from top sights and museums to where to eat and stay. Or read our best things to do in London guide.

What is the best time to visit London?

Spring and autumn usually bring the most comfortable weather and thinner crowds, though London is worth visiting year-round.