London Travel Guide for 2025

Visiting London for the first time can feel overwhelming. Britain’s sprawling and historic metropolis ranks just behind Moscow and Istanbul as the largest city in Europe, and while it has so much to offer, it’s hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve written this London Travel Guide: to cover everything you need to know about visiting the UK capital, from before you arrive to the day you depart. 

From working out how to get from the airport to choosing the right neighbourhood to stay in, we’ve got you covered. You’ll learn how to make the most of London’s public transport, discover the best places to stay, and pick up cultural dos and don’ts to help you fit right in. Packed with top tips to avoid common first-timer pitfalls, this guide is your ultimate companion for exploring London like a local. 

Getting from London’s Airports

Most travellers will fly into one of London’s four main international airports: London Heathrow (LHR), London Gatwick (LGW), London Luton (LTN) or London Stansted (STN).

If you’re flying long-haul, you’ll probably arrive into London Heathrow – about 14 miles from central London. The cheapest way to get to the city centre from here is via the London Underground’s Piccadilly Line. Tickets start from £5.60, and the journey takes 45-60 minutes. If time is of the essence, take the Heathrow Express from Terminal 5. This train will get you to central London’s Paddington Station in 20 minutes, with tickets costing £25.

London Gatwick is the city’s second-biggest airport and is about 25 miles south of central London. The fastest way to reach central London from Gatwick is the Gatwick Express: a non-stop train service that gets you to Victoria Station in 30 minutes. Prices start from £20.50 per adult. Other train operators run slightly cheaper services. Make sure that your ticket corresponds to the service you are taking or you may face a fine. If you’re landing late at night or early in the morning, consider taking a National Express coach.

Luton and Stansted accommodate budget airlines like Ryanair, Easyjet and Wizz. But getting from either into London doesn’t have to break the bank. Both airports are connected to central London via rail links. The Stansted Express runs regular services to Liverpool Street Station (from 5.30 am until 12:30 am) while Thameslink runs a 24/7 service between Luton Parkway Station to St Pancras International. Book your tickets in advance to save on fares. 

Compare all your options for travelling from London’s airports

Inner-City Public Transportation

London’s public transport system is extensive and efficient, connecting every part of the capital and its environs via rail, bus, and underground. For public transport, the TfL Go App is the best resource for checking line closures and service alterations.

The London Underground is usually the best way to get around, with 11 lines servicing 272 stations and trains run from 5 am until midnight from Monday to Saturday. Fares vary depending on the zones you’re travelling through, but start from £2.70. The best way to pay is by tapping in (and out) your smartphone at the barriers. 

Table of London Underground Fares until March 2025. Image credit: London Toolkit

Both London’s buses and the Thames Clipper ferry service offer scenic and reasonably priced ways of getting around the city. Bus routes 9 and 24 are particularly good for sightseeing, with the latter taking you past many of the city’s main central attractions. For late-night partygoers who have missed the last London Underground tube home, an extensive Night Bus network runs throughout the night. 

Taxis in London can be a bit pricey, so rideshares like Bolt and Uber are becoming more popular as cost-friendly alternatives. If you venture out on one of those rare days in which it isn’t raining, you might also look into renting a bike through the Santander Cycles scheme (starting from just £3 per day for 24 hours of unlimited 30-minute rides). 

Read our complete guide to getting around London

Best Places to Stay in London

London offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Here are some of the best neighbourhoods for visitors.

Renowned for its rich history, iconic market, and street performances, Covent Garden is among the most convenient areas to stay in London.  You’ll find world-class dining, trendy cafes, and boutique shopping just steps away, along with easy access to the Royal Opera House and the vibrant West End theatre scene. Its central location also makes it a fantastic starting point for reaching nearby landmarks like Leicester Square and Somerset House.

Not far away, Soho is perfect for culture vultures, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and theatres – not least throughout its world-famous West End. Soho’s central location means you’re just a short stroll walk from such landmarks as Trafalgar Square and Piccadilly Circus while its buzzing nightlife ensures you won’t be short of things to do after dark. It’s also where we run our unmissable Tipsy Tour of London.

For nightlife seekers, Shoreditch is a hub of trendy bars, live music venues, and famous street art by the likes of Banksy. With a youthful atmosphere and a variety of accommodations, it’s the perfect place to stay if you want to explore London after dark. 

Oh, and it’s also close to where we start our immersive, investigative Jack the Ripper Tour 🔎

See our top recommendations for where to stay in London

Top Tips for Navigating London like a Local

Navigating London as a visitor can be daunting, but mastering the city’s unspoken rules will help you blend in seamlessly and avoid unwanted attention. Here's your essential guide to the cultural and practical dos and don’ts of London life.

Always look – and stand – on the left.  On the London Underground’s escalators, stand on the right side and walk on the left. Blocking the left can invite passive-aggressive sighs or the dreaded "tut." Also remember that people in the UK drive on the left, so look right then left before crossing the road to avoid stepping into the path of a bus.

In Britain, the queue is to be revered. Standing in line is a sacred British pastime. Whether at a pub or for a taxi, cutting in line will earn you instant disapproval. Always wait your turn, and when ordering from someone at the bar or talking to your taxi driver, use words like "please," "thank you," and "sorry" as liberally as you can.

Pack for wet weather. Rain is almost a certainty. A waterproof jacket or umbrella is essential, and if the weather turns truly grim, escape to one of London’s free museums or galleries. If taking shelter in a British pub, order and pay at the bar, and if you’re with friends, buy drinks in rounds. 

Preparation is key when using public transport
When navigating public transport in London, time is precious, so always have your Oyster card or contactless payment ready to tap the barriers and avoid holding up the line. 

For more cultural tips – including on tipping –  read out Do’s & Don’ts in London

Make the Most of London with Carpe Diem Tours

Our London Tours offer the most authentic way to explore the UK capital. Our licensed guides are tested and trusted on TripAdvisor, and we’ve selected them because of their passion for their city.

🍲 Feeling peckish? Get a real taste of London on our Borough Market Food tour.

🍻 Looking to meet other travellers on a fun night out? Check out our London Tipsy Tour.

🪄 Heed the summons of the Ministry of Magic by joining our Harry Potter Walking Tour.

🗡️ Want to immerse yourself in Whitechapel's dark history? Join our investigative Jack the Ripper Tour.