London Travel Guide: Everything You Need To Know And More For Your Bucket List Trip 2024
Welcome to London, and in our opinion the best city in the world, although we may be slightly biased. Mike has lived in Central London his whole life while I (Kate) have visited regularly since a young child. Although we have been to many other cities London has our hearts and below we share why. Whether you are visiting London for a day, week, year or even moving here this blog shares vital tips for visiting the city as well as sharing our favourite things to do (as well as the touristy things).
Your Complete Guide with Tourist Maps, Itineraries, Food and Drink Recommendations, Transport and the Top Things To Do
There is so much to London and of course we can't fit it all into one blog, we will try, but really you need to be out there exploring!
London Basics To Know Before You Go
Location
London is the capital city of UK and has a population of 8.9 Million people. The most popular areas to stay are Central London, Leicester Square/Covent Garden Piccadilly and Soho (More Below)
When to Visit?
We would recommend visiting in Summer, you will have light evenings allowing you to explore the city into the evening. That being said, Christmas time is a great for a short weekend break as it is so magical with all the lights, but the weather may not be on your side.
Weather
"There is no such thing as bad weather, just inadequate clothing" - Alfred Wainwright. In other words pack a jacket as the weather is often over-cast and unpredictable even in summer.
Spring (March - May) - 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F)
Summer (June - August) - 18°C to 23°C (64°F to 73) London can get hot though and it is not unusual to have a heatwave in the high 30s ( 97°F) during Summer.
Autumn (September - November) - 9 °C to 16 °C (48 °F to 61 °F)
Winter 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) Again it is not unusual to have temperatures to be below 0°C (32°F), however it rarely snows in London and even then it hardly ever settles.
Language
English - you will experience a multitude of cultures on London but all signs, menus etc are in mainly in English only.
Currency
The UK uses Great British Pound (GBP). You will find lots of places but not all except most credit cards including American Express.
Safety
London is busy and there are pick pocketers, be careful with your phones and money but apart from that you should have no real issues. After living in London for 25 years we haven't experienced any of this but we have heard stories, mainly from smartphones being grabbed by someone going past on a bike.
Power Sockets
The UK uses a plug type G. London operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.
Overview and History
London's story is as fascinating as it is vast. From its humble beginnings as a Roman settlement to its evolution into a global metropolis, each corner of the city whispers tales of centuries past. Explore the historic charm of Westminster Abbey, marvel at the grandeur of Buckingham Palace, or wander through the cobblestone streets of the Tower of London, where history comes alive. In London every corner has a story, you can head over to the London Bridge Experience to immerse yourself in some of the gory parts or keep it simple and admire the different aged architecture.
Great Historic Things To Do
Tower of London - Explore ancient tales and rich history of The Tower and even sneak a peek at the Crown Jewels.
British Museum - Immerse yourself in world history and explore the collection of artefacts on display.
Shakespeare's Globe - Go and watch one of Shakespeare's famous plays or admire the thatched building nestled on South Bank.
Visit the London Wall - A Roman wall built around Londinium in AD 200. Although in ruins now there are still parts that you can see around the city.
Visit Ye Olde Mitre, located in Holborn or Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, located in Fleet Street which both claim to be the oldest pubs in London dating back to the 16th Century.
London Tourist Map: Places To Visit And What Not To Miss
No visit to London would be complete without ticking off its iconic landmarks. Admire the architectural masterpiece of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, take a leisurely stroll along the South Bank of the River Thames. One downside to London is a lot of the attractions are quite expensive so I've chose some of my favourite ones as well as some free things to do in London.
Things To See and Do In London For FREE
Sky Garden
Enjoy breath taking views of London's skyline for free from the Sky Garden, located atop the 'Walkie Talkie' building. Take in the sights of iconic landmarks such as the Shard and the Gherkin while strolling through lush gardens. You need to book in advance and there is also a café and a couple of restaurants at the top, just remember to book before you go.
Explore South Bank
Wander along the South Bank of the River Thames and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. Admire street art, catch a glimpse of performers, and take advantage of free events and exhibitions at venues like the Southbank Centre. You will also be tempted by the smells of roasting coffee and donuts as you wander along the Thames. At Christmas South Bank has a small Christmas Market. I would say this isn't worth a dedicated trip but if you're in the area it is nice to see.
Walk Around the Sites
Embark on a self-guided walking tour of London's famous landmarks. Visit Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, and Westminster Abbey at your own pace, taking in the city's history and architecture along the way.
Natural History Museum
Delve into the wonders of the natural world at the Natural History Museum, where admission is free. Marvel at dinosaur skeletons, gemstones, and interactive exhibits suitable for visitors of all ages. This is a firm favourite of all who visit!
Tate Modern Museum
Immerse yourself in contemporary art at the Tate Modern, located in a former power station along the Thames. Explore the museum's vast collection, including works by Picasso, Warhol, and Hockney, without spending a penny. There is also a small café located on the third floor which has a superb view of St Pauls and the Thames, a great place to grab a morning pick me up.
Science Museum
Feed your curiosity with a visit to the Science Museum, where you can learn about scientific breakthroughs and technological innovations. Engage with hands-on exhibits and interactive displays that make learning fun and accessible. I (Kate) also love the gift shop here, although that part isn't free.
Visit Platform 9 3/4
Channel your inner wizard and pose for a photo at platform 9 3/4 in King's Cross Station. This iconic spot, made famous by the Harry Potter series, offers a magical photo opportunity for fans of the beloved books and films. The shop charges around £20 for a photo but you can still go and see the iconic sing for free!
Explore One of London's Many Parks
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city by exploring one of London's beautiful parks. From Hyde Park to Regent's Park, you can enjoy picnics, leisurely strolls, and outdoor activities amidst lush greenery. Perhaps you want to attempt to walk a marathon around London exploring all the parks? If so head over to our London Marathon Blog.
Watch the Changing of the Guard
Witness a centuries-old tradition as the Queen's Guard changes duty outside Buckingham Palace. Experience the pomp and pageantry of this ceremonial event, which takes place several times a week.
Watch Tower Bridge Open
Catch a unique sight as Tower Bridge opens to allow boats to pass beneath. Check the bridge's schedule to witness this fascinating engineering feat in action.
Go on a Free London Walking Tour
Join a free walking tour to discover London's hidden gems and learn about its history from knowledgeable guides. From Jack the Ripper tours to street art walks, there's a tour to suit every interest.
Notting Hill Carnival
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Notting Hill at the annual Notting Hill Carnival. Experience a feast for the senses with colourful costumes, live music, and delicious Caribbean cuisine, all for free. This year the carnival is on 25-26 August 2024.
Cheap Things To Do In London On A Budget
Top Secret Comedy Club (£1 - £20)
Enjoy a night of laughter without breaking the bank at the Top Secret Comedy Club. With ticket prices starting at just £1, you can experience stand-up comedy from up-and-coming talents and established performers. The £1 do ask you to pay what you feel allowing the comedians to be paid we normally put in £10.
Walk Tower Bridge's Glass Walkway (Adult £12.30 Child £6.20)
Experience a thrill with a walk across Tower Bridge's glass walkway, offering stunning views of the Thames below. Admission is affordable, providing an unforgettable experience for budget-conscious travellers. You also get to visit the engine rooms in the ticket price.
Head to Borough or Camden Market for Cheaper Eats
Sample a variety of delicious food at Borough Market or Camden Market, where you can find delicious street food from around the world. Indulge and try some online famous foods such as The Mac and Cheese Factory in Camden and Bread Ahead in Borough Market, oh, and you can try Oysters here too if you're feeling fancy! Walk through the arched Borough Yards whihc has been re-done with lots of new shops to discover.
Take an Uber Boat Rather than River Cruise (£5-£30)
Explore London's iconic landmarks from the water with an affordable Uber Boat ride along the Thames. Enjoy the sights and skip the crowds while traveling between attractions (prices vary depending on route and duration). We recommend you chose a short journey to experience London by water without breaking the bank. Head over to the Uber prices to check out River Zones and Prices.
Watch the Street Performers at Covent Garden
Be entertained for free by talented street performers at Covent Garden. From magicians to musicians, you'll find a diverse array of acts to enjoy as you soak up the lively atmosphere. It will be busy but Coven Garden is known for these street performers!
Groundling Ticket at Shakespeare's Globe
Experience the magic of Shakespearean theatre with a groundling ticket at Shakespeare's Globe. Standing tickets are budget-friendly and allow you to immerse yourself in the action of the performance (approximately £5-£10).
Swim at one of London's Lidos
Cool off on a hot day with a refreshing swim at one of London's outdoor lidos. With affordable entry fees, you can enjoy a leisurely swim surrounded by stunning scenery in locations such as Hampstead Heath or Brockwell Park (prices vary by location but generally range from £3-£7 for adults).
Explore the City on Santander Bikes
Discover London's sights on two wheels with an affordable bike ride using Santander Cycles. With numerous docking stations throughout the city, you can easily explore London's neighbourhoods and attractions at your own pace (For rides longer than 30 minutes pay £1.65 for each additional 30 minutes).
Go on the Emirates Air Line Cable Car (Return Trip Adult £12 Child £6)
Soar above the Thames on the Emirates Air Line Cable Car for an affordable aerial view of London's skyline. With budget-friendly fares, you can enjoy panoramic vistas of the city from a unique perspective (approximately £6 for a single fare or £3 for a single child fare). You can book online or when you get there. If you do one trip from the 02 you can catch the DLR back into the centre of the city.
Classic Things To Do As A London Tourist
Visit Big Ben
Go on the London Eye (£££)
Ride the iconic red buses or Black Cabs (£££)
Take a photo with a red phone box (Free)
Watch a West end Show (££) - For cheaper tickets check out Last Minute Tickets
Visit the London Dungeons (£££)
Find the Pelicans in St James's Park (Free)
Try Classic Fish and Chips or a Sunday Roast. (£-££)
For more things to do and see in London Download our London What to do List which comes with a bonus printable list for you to take with you on your trip!
For The More Adventurous Traveller
Perhaps you want to explore London in a different way or tick something off your bucket list. Here are our top picks for adventurous travellers.
Night Kayaking On The Thames
Explore the city at night with a night kayaking tour on the Thames. Although not cheap this will certainly get your heart racing as you navigate through the city on the water, once the office workers clear out, the city can be surprisingly quiet with the buildings lighting up the nights sky.
Thames RIB Experience
Get your adrenaline pumping with a high speed trip in a RIB boat on the Thames. With mission impossible music on full blast and the captain driving top speed you'll find time stands still, hold on to your hats though!
Run the London Marathon
Here's one for the fittest of us all. Sign up and run the famous London Marathon to tick this one off your bucket list. Make sure to sign up to this well in advance as spots can be hard to get.
Sleep Over At London Zoo
Spend the night in a private lodge situated near the lions enclosure. You will have exclusive after-hours tours and experience what happens at the zoo after dark. Plus you get a meet and greet with a keeper. Prices start at £175pp
ArcelorMittal Orbit
Get in the lift which will take you 80m up into the London Skyline. Then slide down on the world's tallest and longest tunnel slide.
Cutty Sark Rig Climb
Put yourself in the shoes of past sailors and climb the famous Cutty Sark. The rig climb closes for winter and opens in spring.
Do One Of London's Walking Routes
London has multiple routes which are sign posted and also have downloadable maps here. These are often long walks split into smaller sections if you want to explore London's landmarks we recommend the Jubilee Walkway.
The routes include
Capital Ring
Green Chain
Green Link
Jubilee Greenway
Jubilee Walkway
Lea Valley
Thames Path
London Outer Orbital Path (Loop)
Shrek's Adventure London For Kids
If you've got some kids with you then Shrek's Adventure near the London Eye is a great activity for you to do, along South Bank there is also a great Arcade, Aquarium, London Dungeons for teenagers & above and of course the London Eye tour. Shrek's Adventure currently has very good reviews and is always busy so make sure to get there early.
Food And Drink Recommendations In London
London is a city with every option out there for whatever you fancy for dinner. You will find some of the best food here, even though the Brits aren't known for their food. Of course you may want to find fish and chips (although in my opinion this is better at the sea side) or a classic Sunday roast and there are plenty of pubs to sample some of the finest pub grub.
Our Top Local Picks
Mc & Sons Public House and Thai Kitchen
Mc&Sons is a great atmosphere for the evening and they often have an Irish band playing on a Saturday. However, just before the rush you can grab some amazing Thai food. This really is a back street gem.
Cuisine: Thai
Price: ££
Location: Mc & Sons, 160 Union St, London SE1 0LH
The Ship Southwark
A great pub in Southwark not far from The Globe Theatre. Within the pub is Reda's a snap shot of Lebanon. Try the savoury meze or other Lebanese dishes in a local pub in the heart of London.
Cuisine: Lebanon
Price: ££
Passyunk
An American style dive bar in Waterloo and Battersea. The Waterloo venue also have a batting cage for extra fun! With other games available and sports to watch this is a place full of things to do and yummy food.
Cuisine: Philly regional cuisine
Price: £
Best Neighbourhoods In London
London, the vibrant capital of England, has a multitude of cultures, history, and diverse communities. Each neighbourhood offers its own unique experience and it is worth exploring a few during your stay.
Soho
Nestled in the heart of London's West End, Soho is a lively neighbourhood known for its vibrant nightlife, historic streets, and diverse dining scene. From the bustling markets of Chinatown to the iconic theatres of Shaftesbury Avenue. Explore the quirky boutiques of Carnaby Street, sample authentic international cuisine on Brewer Street, or simply soak up the atmosphere in one of Soho's many charming cafes and pubs.
Notting Hill
Made famous by the film starring Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts aswell as the Notting Hill carnival, it is one of London's most picturesque neighbourhoods. Known for its colourful houses, charming cafes, and bustling Portobello Road Market. Wander through the quaint streets lined with pastel-coloured townhouses, browse the eclectic stalls of the market for antiques and vintage clothing, or simply relax in one of the neighbourhood's many leafy squares.
Camden Town
For those seeking a taste of London's alternative culture, look no further than Camden Town. Situated in the north of the city, Camden is a haven for artists, musicians, and free spirits alike. Explore the iconic Camden Market, where you can find everything from handmade crafts to vintage clothing and global cuisine. Discover live music venues showcasing up-and-coming talent, browse the quirky shops and boutiques along Camden High Street.
Southwark
Home to some of London's most famous landmarks from The Shard, to Borough Market and the Tate Modern, Southwark is a vibrant area perfect for a morning stroll and a cup of coffee. Niche cafes and stools of Borough Market offer unique food experiences and a short stroll along the river brings you straight down to South Bank near the London Eye. If the busy shopping streets of Oxford Circus and Tottenham Court Road aren't your thing then Southwark is the perfect escape.
Best Way to Get Around London
Navigating London is easy with the extensive public transport links. Most people use public transport to get around and most locals don't even own cars. If you are travelling around London the Tube, Cabs and Buses all have contactless payment. For the tube and bus if you have an Oyster card you might get a small discount on fares.
London Underground (The Tube): Fastest Way To Get Around London
With its extensive network of lines and stations, the Tube provides fast and efficient connectivity across the city. The cost of a single journey within Zone 1 and 2 (central London) ranges from £2.40 to £4.90 depending on the time of day and method of payment. This is the best way to travel in our opinion (apart from walking). Make sure to stand on the right of escalators and leave the left hand side for people walking up or down.
Docklands Light Railway (DLR)
Serving East and South East London, the DLR offers automated trains with scenic views of the Docklands area. Fares are similar to those of the Tube. The DLR train is automated and has no driver, it was built to connect Canary wharf and City of London. It will drop you near the Cable Cars at the O2.
London Overground
Explore the city's outskirts and beyond with the London Overground, which connects various neighbourhoods and offers convenient day trips to destinations like Cambridge and Brighton. Prices vary depending on the distance travelled.
To book tickets on the go we use Trainline. You can download the app to grab tickets on the go which is quick and easy. Check out Trainline here:
Red London Buses: Cheapest Way To Get Around London
London's iconic red buses crisscross the city, providing a picturesque and affordable mode of transportation. Single bus fares are £1.55 with an Oyster card or contactless payment. This is the cheapest way to travel but you may get stuck in London traffic unlike the tube.
Uber
Enjoy the convenience of on-demand rides with Uber, which operates throughout London and offers various vehicle options to suit your needs. Prices vary depending on the distance and time of day. Uber operates all through the night so this is a great way to get home when it is a bit later so we definitely recommend you download the app.
Uber Boat
Formerly known as Thames Clippers, Uber Boat provides river bus services along the Thames, offering a scenic alternative for traveling between key destinations. Prices start at £4.50 for a single journey.
Black Cabs
Hailed on the street or found at designated taxi ranks, London's black cabs offer a regulated and reliable mode of transportation, with knowledgeable drivers familiar with the city's streets. Fares are metered, with a minimum charge of £3. B e warned these can get expensive quick!
Santander Bikes (Boris Bikes) & Lime Scooters
Embrace eco-friendly travel with Santander Cycles or Lime Scooters, available for rent at docking stations across the city. Perfect for short journeys or leisurely rides along London's scenic pathways.
Walking: Cheapest Way To Get Around London
Considered one of the best ways to experience London, walking allows you to immerse yourself in the city's charm and discover hidden gems at every corner.
As Locals we mostly walk everywhere, even if its an hour plus, you see so much on your way and bonus you get your steps in.
Bridges In London
London has some iconic bridges. The most iconic is Tower Bridge. This often gets mixed up with London Bridge, however, London bridge is ugly, grey concrete and has none of the allure of Tower Bridge. You can check out Tower Bridge opening times here.
You'll be around the river during your stay and you'll be able to see lots of the cities bridges. Another famous one is the millennium bridge also known as the wobbly bridge. Other notable bridges are Albert Bridge which lights up with thousands of lights at night and Blackfriars station which is built over the river with glass walls giving you a fantastic view.
We have included a map of some of the cities bridges.
London Itineraries
Whether you have a few days or a few weeks London has lots to do. Spend a weekend immersing yourself in the city's cultural landmarks, a day exploring the top attractions or if you're here for longer jump on a train to visit near by towns such as Oxford, Brighton and Cambridge.
London One Day Itinerary
Do not panic if you only have one day in London. Lots can be seen and done in 24 hours. Here's our itinerary if you only have one day.
Morning:
Breakfast at Borough Market
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Borough Market, one of London's oldest and most renowned food markets. Enjoy a variety of freshly prepared foods from different stalls. Walk down the Thames Path and see the iconic Tower Bridge. Cross over and you will get to the...
The Tower of London
After breakfast, head over to the Tower of London, a historic castle located on the north bank of the River Thames. Explore the Tower's rich history, including the Crown Jewels, the White Tower, and the famous Beefeaters. While your in the area why not check out The Ruins of St Dunstead East
Midday:
Uber Boat On The River Thames
Take a cruise along the River Thames. This will give you a unique perspective of the city's landmarks, including the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, the London Eye, and Shakespeare's Globe Theatre.
Lunch in Covent Garden
Disembark from your boat at Westminster or Embankment and make your way to Covent Garden for lunch. There are plenty of cafes, restaurants, and eateries offering various cuisines to suit every taste.
Afternoon:
Spend The Afternoon Exploring some of London's Most Iconic Sites
Spend your afternoon exploring some of London's most iconic sites such as The London Eye and Red Phone Boxes. Don't to forget to snap a few pictures.
Stroll through Hyde Park
If the whether permits, take a leisurely stroll through Hyde Park, one of London's largest and most famous parks. Enjoy the serene surroundings, visit the Serpentine Lake, and maybe even take a boat ride if the weather permits.
Evening:
Dinner in Soho
For dinner, head to Soho, known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse dining options. Whether you're craving Italian, Asian, or traditional British cuisine, you'll find plenty of restaurants to choose from.
West End Show
End your day with a spectacular West End show. London's theatre district offers a wide range of productions, from classic plays to blockbuster musicals. Be sure to book your tickets in advance to secure the best seats.
Nightcap in a Pub
After the show, wind down with a nightcap in one of London's traditional pubs.
Remember to plan your transportation accordingly throughout the day, whether by walking, using the Tube, or taking advantage of London's iconic black cabs. Enjoy your day exploring the vibrant city of London!
London Weekend Itinerary: Two or 3 Days
Day 1: Saturday | Day 2: Sunday |
Morning: | Morning: |
- Visit Camden Market | - Explore Notting Hill |
- Walk along Regent's Canal | - Visit Portobello Market |
Afternoon: | Afternoon: |
- Explore London's Iconic Sights (Big Ben...) | - Catch an Uber Boat |
- Explore Covent Garden | - Visit Southbank and The London Eye |
Evening: | Evening: |
- Dinner in Soho | - Dinner in Shoreditch |
- West End Show | - Visit a Local Pub |
London One Week Itinerary
Day | Morning | Afternoon | Evening |
Day 1 | Arrival and settling in | Explore Covent Garden and Neal's Yard | Dinner in Soho |
Day 2 | Visit the Tower of London and Tower Bridge | Thames River Cruise | West End Show |
Day 3 | Camden Market and Regent's Canal walk | Natural History Museum | Dinner in Camden Town |
Day 4 | Notting Hill and Portobello Road Market | Kensington Palace and Hyde Park | Relaxing evening in Hyde Park |
Day 5 | Explore Southbank Centre and Tate Modern | Borough Market and Southwark Cathedral or The Shard | Dinner in Borough Market |
Day 6 | Greenwich: Cutty Sark and Royal Observatory | Greenwich Park and Maritime Museum | Dinner in Greenwich |
Day 7 | St. Paul's Cathedral and Millennium Bridge | Shakespeare's Globe Theatre and Southbank | Farewell dinner in Covent Garden |
Best Shopping In London
Westfield London (Shepherd's Bush) & Westfield Stratford City
With two expansive locations in Shepherd's Bush and Stratford, Westfield is a popular shopping destination in London. Westfield London has over 300 shops, including luxury brands like Louis Vuitton and Burberry, while Westfield Stratford City offers a diverse array of retailers, including flagship stores for Nike and Adidas. Both locations feature an abundance of dining options, entertainment facilities such as cinemas, and family-friendly attractions like KidZania, making them perfect for a day of shopping and leisure.
Harrods
Situated in Knightsbridge, Harrods is an iconic luxury department store renowned worldwide. With its stunning interior and prestigious brands such as Chanel, Dior, and Rolex, Harrods offers a world famous shopping experience for those seeking luxury goods. Beyond shopping, visitors can explore its Food Halls, enjoy fine dining in its restaurants, or simply admire the grandeur of its architecture and displays.
Royal Exchange
Nestled in the heart of the City of London, the Royal Exchange is a historic landmark turned luxury shopping destination. Housing boutique stores like Tiffany & Co., Hermes, and Jo Malone.
One New Change & Secret St Paul's Viewpoint
Situated near St. Paul's Cathedral, One New Change offers a mix of high street and designer. Its rooftop terrace provides stunning views of London's skyline, offering a unique shopping experience with a picturesque backdrop.
Oxford Street
As one of the busiest shopping streets in Europe, Oxford Street is a retail paradise with stores from renowned brands. It's a shopper's haven however will be incredibly busy. Oxford Street's central location provides easy access to nearby attractions, restaurants, and theatres, making it a bustling hub of activity day and night.
Covent Garden
Known for its charming cobbled streets and vibrant atmosphere, Covent Garden is a must-visit shopping destination in London. From unique boutique shops and market stalls to well-known brands like Apple and Burberry, there's something for everyone here. In addition to shopping, visitors can enjoy street performances, dine in restaurants, or explore the area's rich cultural history, including the famous Royal Opera House and London Transport Museum.
Cost And Budget for Visiting London
Exploring London doesn't have to break the bank. With a bit of planning and insider knowledge, you can enjoy the city's offerings without emptying your wallet.
Average Prices:
- Single Person Per Week: £300-£500 (includes accommodation, food, transportation, and attractions)
- Couple Per Week: £500-£800
- Family (2 adults, 2 children) Per Weekend: £400-£600
- Family (2 adults, 2 children) Per Week: £700-£1200
However we think it can be done cheaper! Opt for free attractions such as museums and parks, take advantage of discounted theatre tickets available at the TKTS booth in Leicester Square, and don't always eat out and instead opt for accommodation with a small kitchen to cook.
Average Backpacker Prices:
The cost of traveling to London can vary greatly depending on factors such as accommodation, dining preferences, activities, and transportation choices. However, here's a rough breakdown of the average daily expenses for a budget traveller or backpacker in London.
Accommodation
Hostel dormitory beds typically range from £15 to £40 per night, depending on the location and quality. Private hostel rooms or budget hotels might cost between £40 to £80 per night.
Food
Budget travellers can expect to spend around £10 to £20 per meal at inexpensive restaurants, street food vendors, or grocery stores for self-catering. Cooking your meals in a hostel kitchen can help save money. Check out our London Restaurant Prices or the London Food Prices blog for more detail!
Transportation
London has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, the Tube (subway), and trains. A single journey on the Tube within central London costs around £2.40 with an Oyster card or contactless payment. Consider getting an Oyster card for discounted fares if you plan to use public transport frequently. Plus we think walking is one of the best ways to get around London.
Sightseeing and Activities
Many of London's museums and galleries offer free admission, but some attractions may have entrance fees. Budget around £10 to £20 per attraction, depending on what you plan to visit. Walking tours or exploring neighbourhoods on foot can be a cost-effective way to see the city.
In total, an average backpacker might spend approximately £40 to £80 per day in London, excluding transportation to and from the city. Of course it can be cheaper but it can also be a lot more expensive London isn't known for being cheap.
Useful Apps For Getting Around London And More
Make the most of your London adventure with the help of technology. Downloading apps can help you have a stress free trip. Here are the ones we recommend:
Citymapper
Uber
StreetArtLondon - An app for discovering street art and graffiti around London. It provides a map of street art locations, artist profiles, and guided walking tours to explore the city's vibrant street art scene.
Time Out London - A comprehensive guide to events, activities, attractions, and nightlife in London. The app features curated recommendations, event listings, and insider tips on what to see and do in the city.
London Bucket List Printable Download
To ensure you don't miss out on any of London's must-see sights and experiences, be sure to download our printable bucket list. Tick off each item as you go!
Find what you're looking for:
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