London Trip Cost Breakdown: How Much Does a Trip to London Cost for 5 Days?

Planning a 5-day trip to London requires careful budgeting. You might think, how much does a 5-day trip to London cost?

Expect to spend around £105 (about $130) per person on average daily. This should cover your essential expenses and help you enjoy your stay in one of the most expensive cities in the world.

London is known for its high costs, but it offers many attractions worth visiting. You’ll need to budget for:

• Visiting famous sights like the Tower of London, the London Eye, Westminster Abbey, and various museums.
• Dining out, going to local markets, and using public transport with an Oyster card or contactless payment add to your expenses.
• Accommodation, whether in a hotel in London or a more budget-friendly option, is another significant cost to consider.

In this blog, I’ll break down the costs of visiting London, including accommodation, food in London, transport, attractions, and entertainment.

I’ll also provide a budget plan detailing what to pay in advance and on the spot.

You’ll find tips on how to save money and answers to common questions about the cost of going to London.

Whether you’re planning a day trip or a week in London, this guide will help you manage your trip costs and make the most of your visit.

When planning your trip to London, it’s essential to understand the various costs you’ll encounter.

In this section, I’ll break down London expenses by category. I’ll cover accommodation, food, transport, attractions, and entertainment.

This detailed overview will help you budget effectively for your trip.

London accommodation prices

Let’s talk about where to rest your head in London without breaking the bank!

For more information on exploring London, check out our next post on Planning Your First Trip to London in 7 Days!

Budget-Friendly Options:

Looking to save some cash? Here’s what you can expect:

Accommodation Type	Average Price (Per Person, Per Night)
Hostels	£25-£50
Budget Hotels	£50-£75

You can find accommodation for around £75 per person per night, based on two people sharing a room.

It’s a good deal for those watching their wallet!

Tip: When I travel on a budget, I always check hostel reviews. I also opt for budget hotels that offer free breakfast. It saves me money on one meal a day!.

Zone 1 Stays:

Want to be in the heart of the action? Here’s what you’ll pay:

Accommodation Type	Average Price (Per Room, Per Night)
3-star Hotel	£150-£200
Airbnb in Central London	£100-£150

A 3-star hotel in Zone 1 might cost you about £150 per room per night. It’s pricier but super convenient.

Consider these benefits of staying in Zone 1:

🚇 Easy Access: No long commutes to the sights and attractions.

💸 Save on Transport: Spend less on getting around the city.

🍽️ Foodie Paradise: Explore diverse dining options right at your doorstep.

While staying further out might seem cheaper, remember the time and money you’ll spend on transportation. Staying centrally in Zone 1 can save you both hassle and cash.

Tip:I prefer staying in Zone 1 despite the higher cost. It saves me time and money on transport. Being able to walk to major attractions is a huge bonus!.

Plan your accommodation budget alongside your travel expenses. It’s a smart move to have your accommodation sorted before you arrive in London.

Here’s why:

🕒 Time Saver: No last-minute scrambling for a place to crash.

💼 Peace of Mind: Knowing you’ve got a comfy bed waiting for you.

🔒 Security: Your belongings are safe and sound while you explore.

Tip: I always book my accommodation while I book my flight. It ensures I get the best rates and a secure place to stay!

Peak Season Alert:

Prices can skyrocket during peak times like summer and Christmas. Be prepared to pay more during these busy periods.

🌞 Summer: June to August

🎄 Christmas: December

Tip: I avoid visiting London during peak seasons. If I must go, I book my accommodation well in advance. This helps lock in better rates!

London food prices

When it comes to food in London, there’s something for every budget. Food expenses in London can be a breeze to manage with a little planning and knowledge of what’s available.

Whether you’re after quick and convenient bites or looking to indulge in upscale dining, London has it all. 

Here’s your go-to London travel guide for enjoying the city’s food scene without breaking the bank.

For more information on exploring London on a budget, check out our next post on the cheapest areas to rent in London!

Most hotels include breakfast, which is a great way to start your day without extra cost. If your stay in London doesn’t include breakfast, no worries!

Pop into a nearby grocery store like Waitrose or Sainsbury’s. Stock up on basics for your room or apartment.

Some of the grocery items with prices are given below:

• Milk (1 liter): Around £1.00 – £1.20
• Loaf of bread (500g): About £1.00 – £1.50
• Rice (1 kg): Typically £1.50 – £2.00
• Eggs (12): Usually £2.00 – £3.00
• Local cheese (1 kg): £6.00 – £10.00
• Chicken breast (1 kg): £6.00 – £8.00
• Beef (1 kg): £10.00 – £15.00
• Apples (1 kg): £2.00 – £3.00
• Bananas (1 kg): £1.00 – £1.50
• Oranges (1 kg): £2.00 – £3.00
• Tomatoes (1 kg): £2.00 – £3.00
• Potatoes (1 kg): £1.00 – £1.50
• Onions (1 kg): £1.00 – £1.50

Tip: Definitely make sure to try a traditional full English breakfast at least once. It’s so hearty you might not even need lunch!

Lunch

For lunch, grocery stores are your best friend.

Most offer meal deals where you can get a sandwich, drink, and crisps for about £4-£7. It’s a budget-friendly way to feed the family.

Add some fruit or pre-cut veggies, and you’re set for a fun and affordable picnic. Pret a Manger shops are practically on every corner. They offer fresh and quick options.

Dinner

If you have access to a kitchen, grocery stores in London have fantastic ready-to-eat meals.

Think roasted chicken, veggies, and potatoes. These options are not only delicious and healthy but also typically cost under £30, requiring minimal effort to prepare.

Takeaways are also a great option.

London’s diverse culinary scene means you can easily find Indian, Thai, or classic fish and chips without breaking the bank.

When to Splurge

London boasts some outstanding restaurants. Treat yourself to a few sit-down meals during your trip.

Don’t miss out on the quintessential afternoon tea experience! It usually costs between £40-£60 per person, but many hotels offer discounts or even complimentary tea for their guests.

Afternoon tea is plentiful enough to double as dinner. It’s a delightful and cost-effective splurge.

Here are some dining out costs in London:

• Inexpensive Restaurant Meal: Typically £10.00 – £20.00
• Three-course Meal for Two at a Mid-range Restaurant: £50.00 – £80.00
• McMeal at McDonald’s: £6.00 – £7.00
• Cappuccino: £2.50 – £4.00
• Coke/Pepsi (0.33 liter bottle): £1.00 – £2.00
• Water (0.33-liter bottle): £0.80 – £1.50

Total Food Costs

For a week-long trip, here’s a rough budget:

• Breakfast: Free if included with your hotel stay.
• Lunch: Around £40 for the whole family per day.
• Dinner: Budget around £150 per day if you’re mixing in some splurges with more casual dining.

1. Supermarkets: Hit up Tesco, Sainsbury’s, ASDA, or Lidl for competitive prices. Their own-brand products are usually a steal.
2. Local Markets: Check out Borough Market, Camden Market, and Brick Lane Market for fresh produce at great prices.
3. Discount Stores: Aldi and Lidl are fantastic for budget-friendly shopping.
4. Bulk Buying: Stock up on non-perishables at wholesalers like Costco.
5. Meal Planning: Plan your meals to save money and reduce waste.

Keep in Mind

Prices can vary depending on where you are in London. Central areas tend to be pricier than outer boroughs. Specialty or organic items might cost more.

Wondering how much does it cost? It can differ based on the neighborhood and what you’re buying.

For the latest prices, check local supermarket websites. You can also take a stroll through your local markets. These are great places to get a feel for what you might spend on groceries and meals.

When planning how much a trip will cost, consider these variations. 

For more information on exploring London, check out our next post on What to Wear When Visiting London in September: Packing Guide!

Navigating London is easy with its extensive public transport network.

Here’s your ultimate guide to London costs, perfect for couples or families visiting the city!

The Tube (London Underground)

• Single Journey: Prices vary by zone. For Zone 1, it’s around £2.70 off-peak.
• Daily Cap: Travel all day across Zones 1-2 for around £7.40.
• Weekly Travelcard: For unlimited travel in Zones 1-2, it costs around £38. This is great value for money if you’re spending six days in London.
• From Heathrow: A Tube ticket from Heathrow to central London costs £5.60. It takes about an hour on the Piccadilly Line.

Buses

• Single Journey: A flat rate of £1.75.
• Daily Cap: Bus travel is capped at £5.25 per day, regardless of the number of journeys.
• Hopper Fare: Allows unlimited bus and tram journeys within an hour for £1.75.

Trams

• Single Journey: Same fare as buses, £1.75.
• Daily Cap: Capped at £5.25 per day.

Docklands Light Railway (DLR)

• Single Journey: Similar to the Tube, fares vary by zone, around £2.80 for Zone 1.
• Daily Cap: Part of the daily cap for the Tube.

Overground

• Single Journey: Similar fare structure to the Tube.
• Daily Cap: Included in the overall daily cap.

Taxis and Ride-sharing

• Black Cabs: Starting fare of around £3.80. Prices increase based on distance and time.
• Ride-sharing (e.g., Uber): Prices vary, and they are generally cheaper than black cabs but depend on demand and distance.

Bikes

• Santander Cycles: The first 30 minutes are £1.65. Each additional 30 minutes costs £1.65.
• Daily Access Fee: £2 for unlimited 30-minute rides within 24 hours.

Travel Passes

• Oyster Card: A reusable smart card for pay-as-you-go travel. Offers cheaper fares than paper tickets.
• Contactless Payment: You can use your contactless debit or credit card. Fares are the same as with an Oyster card.
• London Pass: Includes travel options and entry to numerous attractions. Great for tourists wanting to see multiple sights.

Getting to Central London from Airports

• Heathrow Airport: The cheapest option is the Piccadilly Line Tube, costing £5.60. It takes about an hour to reach central London.
• Express Trains: Faster but more expensive options are available from Heathrow, Gatwick, and Stansted airports.

Tips for Saving Money

1. Plan to Spend: Think about how much a trip will cost and budget accordingly.
2. Off-Peak Travel:  I travel after 9:30 am on weekdays and anytime on weekends for cheaper fares.
3. Daily Cap: Take advantage of the daily cap to limit your spending.
4. Walking: London is a great place to explore on foot, especially in central areas. Walking between nearby attractions can save a lot on transport costs.

Budgeting for Your London Trip

• Cost to Travel in London: Budget around £5 per day per person for 2 Zone 1 Tube trips and the cost of getting to your hotel.
• Visit London on a Budget: Save cash by walking and visiting attractions in the same area on the same day.
• Accommodation in London: Staying in Zone 1 can save time and travel costs. It’s convenient for walking to many attractions.

When planning how much you’ll spend on a trip to London, consider all transport and living costs.

London is an expensive city, but careful planning can help you visit London on a budget. Travel costs can be managed effectively by using public transport and walking.

Enjoy your London trip and make the most of your travel style, whether it’s budget-friendly or a bit more luxurious.

London attraction prices

When it comes to exploring London, there’s something for every budget! You can enjoy free activities to splurge on iconic attractions like the London Eye, which can cost around £32.50 per person.

But here’s the good news: there’s plenty to see and do in London without spending a penny.

You can stroll through parks, explore museums, or catch events like the Changing of the Guard.

If you’re eyeing those must-visit paid attractions like the Tower of London or the London Eye, be aware that prices can vary.

But fear not!

When planning your travel budget, booking in advance through platforms like GetYourGuide can be your ticket to convenience and better deals. With their flexible cancellation policy (up to 24 hours before), you’ve got nothing to lose!

Now, let’s talk savings. Here are some savvy tips I’ve discovered:

• Plan: Beat the queues and snag better deals by booking your tickets online in advance.
• Hunt for Discounts: Keep your eyes peeled for student, senior, or family discounts to stretch your travel budget further.
• Embrace the Freebies: London is one of those cities teeming with free attractions, from beautiful parks to captivating museums.
• Bundle Up: Consider combo tickets for multiple attractions to find the best value for your travel budget.
• Time it Right: Beat the crowds and possibly score lower prices by visiting during off-peak times.

By arming yourself with these insider tips, you’ll navigate London’s attractions like a pro while keeping your wallet happy.

London entertainment prices

Looking for entertainment in London?

No problem!

You can budget from nothing to tens or hundreds of pounds per day, depending on your preferences.

For a night out, drinks at London pubs start from around £5, while a cinema ticket typically costs about £12 or more.

If you’re up for some nightlife fun, be prepared to spend a bit more. A pint of lager starts from £5, and cocktails can be even pricier.

When it comes to entertainment, here’s what you can expect:

• West End Theatre Shows: Tickets range from approximately £20 for balcony seats to over £100 for premium seats for top productions.
• Concerts and Gigs: Prices vary, but you can expect to pay anywhere from £20 to £100 or more for tickets, depending on the artist and venue.
• Cinema: Ticket prices for adults range from £10 to £15, with discounts available for students and seniors. Premium experiences like IMAX or 4DX screenings may cost more.
• Comedy Clubs: Entry fees typically range from £10 to £20, depending on the venue and performers.
• Museums and Galleries: Many offer free entry, while some special exhibitions may have ticket prices ranging from £10 to £20 or more.
• Live Performances: Prices vary widely, with tickets typically ranging from £10 to £50 or more for live music, dance, and theatrical performances.
• Sports Events: Ticket prices can vary, with prices ranging from £20 to over £100 for events such as football matches or rugby games.
• Theme Parks: Entry fees start at around £30 to £40 per person for theme parks like Thorpe Park or Chessington World of Adventures.

Don’t forget to check for discounts, special offers, or package deals when planning your trip to London.

Booking in advance can often offer better value for money, especially if you’re traveling as a couple or with kids.

For more information on exploring London, check out our next post on the What to Wear in London in June

Budget planning for London 

Organizing your budget for London involves smart planning.

One helpful tip? Arrange and pay for what you can before you even arrive in the city.

Secure your accommodation and grab those attraction tickets in advance. This way, upon arrival, you can fully immerse yourself in London’s sights and sounds without worrying about the small details.

Now, let’s crunch some numbers.

Here’s a rough breakdown to assist you in mapping out your expenses:

• Accommodation: Plan and budget around £75 per person per night.
• Food: Allocate approximately £10 per day for meals, allowing for some flexibility.
• Transport: Set aside about £5 daily for travel, including the cost of a return tube trip within zone 1.
• Attractions: Aim to budget around £30 per visit for major sights. It’s wise to book in advance.
• Entertainment: Give yourself some room to splurge and budget as much as you anticipate needing for daily activities.

With these basics sorted and funds allocated, you’ll be well-prepared to maximize your London adventure.

What to pay in advance

Ready to supercharge your London adventure?

Here’s a game-changing tip: get ahead by sorting out your accommodation and attraction tickets in advance. It’s like laying down the welcome mat for a hassle-free trip!

Aim for around £90 per day for both.

By handling these essentials early on, you’ll be free to fully immerse yourself in the London experience without any last-minute hassles.

What to pay for in London

When you’re in London, there are a few things you’ll need to budget for. These include food, transportation, and entertainment.

Plan to allocate around £15 per day for all three combined. This amount should cover your daily expenses and leave you with plenty of extra money to explore and enjoy everything the city has to offer.

So whether you’re planning a trip to London or just wondering about the cost of food in London, this budget-friendly approach has you covered.

Tip: Here’s a tip that always helps me out when exploring London: I make sure to download a transportation app before I arrive. It’s super handy for navigating the city’s extensive public transport system and helps me save time and money on getting around. Trust me, it’s a game-changer for making the most of your London adventure!

Total cost per day

For a rough estimate of your daily expenses in London, consider this breakdown: accommodation, food, transport, attractions, and entertainment.

Plan for a minimum of £105 per day per person to cover these essentials.

This budget should ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience while exploring the city.

10 top tips for saving money in London

• Bring your student ID card to access discounts at various attractions, restaurants, and shops.
• Explore London’s history for free with guided walking tours. Tip your guide if you enjoy the experience.
• Opt for affordable and delicious options from London’s diverse street food scene, including food trucks and markets.
• Carry a reusable water bottle to refill with London’s safe and free tap water, saving on bottled water costs.
• Enjoy discounted drinks and food during happy hour at bars and restaurants citywide.
• Attend free festivals, concerts, and exhibitions happening across London.
• Research local favorites to avoid overpriced tourist traps for dining and sightseeing.
• Visit markets like Camden Market for affordable and unique souvenirs instead of tourist shops.
• Save money by sharing accommodation and transportation costs when traveling with friends or family.
• Keep an eye out for discounted tickets and activities on websites like Groupon and Time Out London.

Conclusion

So, is London expensive to visit?

Well, it can be, but with some smart planning, you can manage your budget effectively.

From accommodation to food, transport, attractions, and entertainment, there are plenty of ways to save money. 

So go ahead, plan your trip, and get ready to explore this vibrant city without breaking the bank!

Frequently Asked Questions