London travel guide: what to do, budget and tips
Cultural city break or shopping weekend: London is best by Tube and on foot. Compare hotels for your dates — West End, South Bank, Kensington or Zone 2.
This guide covers neighbourhoods, budget and transport from France. Rates rise quickly at weekends and during major events — always check for your dates on Litchi Travel.
What to do / see
British Museum
Free entry, vast collections — allow 2–3 hours; queues build at weekends.
Tower of London
Crown jewels and Beefeaters: timed ticket recommended, especially in summer.
South Bank & London Eye
Thames walk plus the wheel: best late afternoon; pre-book the Eye.
Hyde Park
Free green break between museums — boating in summer, markets in winter.
Covent Garden
Lively streets, street performers and shops — skip noon–2 pm if crowds bother you.
Borough Market
Street food and local produce near London Bridge — arrive early on Saturdays.
Hidden gems & quieter ideas
Neighbourhoods off the trail
Ask your London hotel for local spots tour buses skip — especially in July–August.
Start early
For headline sights, an early start improves the visit (and sometimes parking).
Getting around
- Eurostar or flight to Heathrow / Gatwick / City: compare for your departure city.
- Oyster / contactless for the Tube: budget about €8–15 / day depending on pace.
- Stay near a Zone 1–2 station to keep daily travel short.
Find cheap flights to LondonBooking on the partner site — Litchi Travel does not sell flight tickets.
What to eat
- Local food — In London, pick markets and local favourites over photo menus in front of monuments.
- Half board / all inclusive — Handy for families or remote resorts; less needed in city centres with plenty of dining choice.
- Water & sun — Budget sunscreen and bottled water in summer — often underestimated on the ground.
Approximate on-site budget
Indicative on-site budget (excl. flights): about €90–160 / day / person mid-range (hotel + meals + transport). Budget stays around €70–90 further out. Major sights often cost €20–35.
Figures are indicative (2025–2026 ballparks) and exclude flights. They vary with season, hotel standard and exchange rates.
Practical tips
- Book early for weekends and concerts / matches.
- Walking + Tube often beats taxis in the centre.
- Pre-book major sights (Tower, London Eye) in peak season.
FAQ
- Where to stay in London for a first visit?
- Covent Garden / Soho, South Bank / Waterloo, or near a well-connected Zone 1–2 station. Location matters as much as stars: a hotel slightly further out but next to the Tube is often more comfortable day to day.
- When are London hotels most expensive?
- Weekends, Christmas, sales periods, major sports events and concerts. Mid-week off-peak stays are often cheaper — compare nearby dates.
- Should I book breakfast included?
- Useful if you leave early or travel with family. Otherwise cafés and bakeries near sights often offer better value.
- How do I book a London hotel with Litchi Travel?
- Search with your dates, choose a room, review the summary, then complete checkout when online payment is available. Price and availability are verified before payment.
Book a hotel — London
Compare availability on Litchi Travel, then find a cheap flight via our partner.