London

London area guide

Things to do in London

With its diverse array of neighbourhoods, enchanting museums and vibrant food and shopping districts, it's fair to say there really is no other city quite like London. Here’s our ultimate guide to things to do in London for those in need of a bit of inspiration.

We have the best budget accommodation in London near the best attractions, landmarks and locations. YHA has some superb hostels in the city centre, including accommodation in Oxford Street and Earl's Court, so there's a fantastic selection of cheap hostels to choose from if you're looking to stay central.

Traveller tips

Tips for travellers

Ever wondered where to catch the best London views or find the coolest vintage markets?

Watch our London city hacks video to discover our top 11 tips for travellers who are looking to save money, find unique attractions and free things to do in London, and navigate the city with ease.

Top London landmarks

Best things to do in London

Insider tips

You can get the best views of London by climbing up the observatory in Greenwich Park. I also love just strolling along the southbank at night when the lights are shining off the Thames and St Paul's Cathedral is lit up.

Amy, Our Big Fat Travel Adventure

Although Borough Market is the most famous, head down the road to Maltby Street Market in Bermondsey for some awesome food under the arches.

Dan, Dan Flying Solo

I'm loving Brixton Market right now. There are so many places to eat and drink; I feel like you can travel the world without ever getting on a plane. And a lot of places are BYOB (Bring Your Own Beer), so even better!

Vicky, Vicky Flip Flop Travels

If you're looking for contemporary art for free, check the tube stations. The tiled artwork in Tottenham Court Road station is my favourite but there are lots more.

Katie, The Hostel Girl

Transport in London

Commercial plane sitting on the runway at sunset

By air

The city is served by several major airports including Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton and Stansted as well as City Airport in London’s historic Docklands. All offer hundreds of daily flights to and from destinations around the world as well as quick transfers to the city via express train, tube, DLR and coach.

Train with open doors on a London Underground platform

By tube

London's Underground - or the tube as it's more commonly known - is the quickest and easiest way to get around town. The vast network of trains covers the entire city and the surrounding boroughs with services running from around 5am to just after midnight every day.

Red double decker bus on a city road

By bus

Buses are a great way to get around London and see some of the fabulous sights along the way. They are convenient, cheap and run regularly. You can't pay for your ticket with cash and will need an Oyster Card, a Travelcard or a contactless debit or credit card to get on board.

Row of bicycles on a city road

By bike

Cycling is a great way to get around London and keeps you fit too. The city's bike hire scheme is available all year round and has more than 750 docking stations and 11,000 bikes in circulation. There is a small fee to get access to a bike for 24 hours and the first half hour of each journey is free.

Search for a hostel in London

Find your perfect London accommodation

Popular neighbourhoods

London tipping culture

Tipping in London

Although it is customary to leave 10-15% of the bill when eating out in London, restaurants will often add on a service charge of around 12.5%. Look out for this when you're checking the bill so you avoid tipping twice!

Explore outdoors

Weird and wonderful things to do in London

Weather forecast in London

Local weather

There's nothing Londoners like better than discussing the weather but, contrary to popular belief, London isn't always rainy and cloudy. When the sun is out London is hot and inviting with Hyde Park or Greenwich Park ideal for some sunbathing. In winter, London becomes a magical place even the cold can't touch, with twinkling fairy lights, inviting coffee shops and Hyde Park's renowned Winter Wonderland running during the colder months.

Popular blog posts about London