Planning a trip to London? We’ve got you covered in 7 easy steps. We’ll help you from picking the best time to visit London to booking your stay and planning your itinerary.
Remember your essentials: comfortable shoes, a travel adapter, a camera, and a sense of adventure.
In this blog post, we’ll cover everything from budgeting to booking flights, accommodations, and top London attractions like the Tower of London and the London Eye.
Some Tips from Experts
If it’s your first visit to London, we recommend planning at least a week to explore all the attractions in London and around the city. Explore things to do in London, especially if it’s your first time visiting.
Consider purchasing a London Explorer Pass to save on attractions.
With a London Pass, you can save time and money on popular day trips and attractions like the London Zoo and the Museum of London.
Plan your day itinerary or week in London carefully and leave some time for spontaneous discoveries.
Spend some time in central London and the City of London to experience the vibrant energy of the city.
Look into hotels in London and book accommodations that suit your preferences and budget. With thorough travel planning, your trip to London will be a memorable experience.
So, plan your trip to London today and make the most of your time in this incredible city!
London Travel Planner – Plan your trip to London in 7 easy steps
Get ready to conquer London in 7 simple steps!
Let’s discuss the ultimate London travel guide!
Step 1 – Decide what time of year you want to visit London and for how long 📆
What time of year is best to visit London?
If you’re not restricted to time constraints, then think about which time of year is best for you to visit London.
Then it would be best if you considered weather, hours of daylight, peak, shoulder, or off-peak season, or any particular event like the Chelsea Flower Show or Christmas markets to enjoy your days.
Here is the complete information about visiting London during different seasons.
Seasonal Highlights:
Spring:
Spring is the best season for you to enjoy the gardens and parks in London. The winter has lifted, and the weather become milder.
Summer:
Do you know London’s busiest time? Summer is the buzziest time in London. But the interesting thing is that most of the events and festivals occur during summer in London.
The days are very long, hot and sunny. So if you want to enjoy the festivals during your London trip, then it’s the best time for you.
Autumn:
Choose London in autumn for nice weather and long days. You can go sightseeing easily.
Take walks in royal parks or visit Kew Gardens to see the autumn colors.
Winter:
Wanna enjoy skating? Then you’ve to visit London during the winter season. The snow during winter transforms the city into Winterland.
One thing to consider here is that the days are short! So you’ve little time to enjoy, but cozy pubs are there to enjoy; who is complaining?
“London’s winter chill begins to bite,
Frosty mornings, icy nights,
The Thames’ waters, frozen still,
Winter’s grip, the city’s will.”
How many days to spend in London?
The time you spend in London depends on your interests, budget, and schedule.
London offers historic landmarks like the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace, as well as world-class museums like the British Museum.
For a typical first-time visitor, 3 to 5 days in London is common to see major attractions and get a feel for the city. This allows time for iconic sights, exploring neighborhoods, and a day trip.
However, if you have specific interests, like theater or shopping, you should stay longer.
Ultimately, it’s a personal choice.
Consider what you want to see and do while you’re there and plan accordingly.
Step 2 – Decide on your budget 💷
Decide on your budget wisely.
We suggest setting aside approximately £105 (around $130 in US dollars) per day, per person, after your initial travel expenses. This figure isn’t fixed; you can adjust it based on your preferences. It’s just a handy guideline based on recent experiences.
Remember, this amount covers your daily expenses for things like food, transportation, and activities around London.
By planning your budget, you’ll have a clearer idea of how much you can comfortably spend during your 7-day trip to London, especially if it’s your first time visiting the city.
Step 3 – Book flights and organize travel insurance 🛫
Plan your trip to the UK by booking flights and organizing travel insurance.
Research flights to London and choose ones that fit your schedule and budget. Consider which London airport you’ll use.
Also, arrange travel insurance for peace of mind.
Look into different options to find suitable coverage.
London airports
Several airports, including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and London City, serve London.
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To find the best flight deals to the UK, I rely on Skyscanner. It offers a comprehensive comparison of prices and routes. It even helps me in choosing the most suitable option for my trip.
Skyscanner is particularly handy for exploring various route options and finding the cheapest travel dates.
So, whether you’re planning a visit to London for the first time or a return trip, Skyscanner can help you find affordable flights and make your travel planning smoother.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is essential for any trip. It provides peace of mind and financial protection, especially in a bustling city like London. It covers unexpected events like trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage.
When you plan to visit London, research and purchase suitable travel insurance. Ensure it offers adequate coverage. This way, you can explore the city without worrying about disruptions to your plans.
Step 4 – Book accommodation 🏨
When booking accommodation for my London trip, I consider where to stay and the options available.
Firstly, I research different neighborhoods for convenience. Next, I consider my budget and accommodation type.
One tip I follow is to book early for better deals. Let’s discuss this in detail.
Where to stay in London
Choosing where to stay in London can be challenging, especially if it’s your first trip to London.
Consider your interests and budget carefully.
One tip is to study the table below to find an area that suits you.
Another suggestion is to stay in or around Covent Garden for easy access to transportation, main sights, and entertainment options.
When planning a trip to London, there are numerous options to consider for where to stay. London offers something for every traveler’s taste and budget.
Popular areas to stay include:
| Areas | Details |
|---|---|
| Central London: | Iconic neighborhoods like Westminster, Covent Garden, and Soho offer easy access to major attractions. These include Buckingham Palace, the British Museum, and the West End theaters. |
| South Bank: | Along the Thames River, South Bank boasts stunning views of landmarks like the London Eye, Tate Modern, and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. It’s a vibrant cultural hub with plenty of dining and entertainment options. |
| Kensington and Chelsea: | This area is known for its upscale vibe. It’s home to attractions like Kensington Palace, the Victoria and Albert Museum, and the shopping district of Knightsbridge |
| Camden: | Camden is ideal for those seeking an alternative atmosphere. It’s famous for its markets, live music venues, and street art scene. |
| Shoreditch | Perfect for hipsters and creatives, Shoreditch is known for its trendy bars, art galleries, and vibrant street food scene. |
These are just a few examples, and there are many more neighborhoods to explore in London.
When deciding where to stay, consider factors such as proximity to attractions, transportation options, and your personal preferences.
By choosing the right neighborhood, you can make the most of your time in the city, whether you’re visiting London for the first time or a return visit.
Accommodation options
When planning a trip, choosing the right accommodation is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Here are some popular accommodation options:
Booking.com
Booking.com is a well-established platform. It offers a wide variety of accommodations, including hotels, hostels, apartments, and unique stays like treehouses and boats.
- It covers all types of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxury resorts..
- Extensive reviews from previous guests help in making informed decisions..
- Many listings offer free cancellation and no prepayment options..
- Some bookings may include additional service fees.
- The sheer number of options can sometimes make it difficult to choose.
Vrbo
Vrbo specializes in vacation homes. It offers entire properties such as houses, villas, and condos. This makes it ideal for family vacations or group travel.
- Perfect for travelers looking for entire homes with multiple bedrooms and amenities like kitchens and private pools.
- Provides a more private and personal experience compared to hotels.
- Many properties are geared towards families with amenities like game rooms and large gardens..
- Whole properties can be more expensive than single-room accommodations.
- Availability may be limited if booking is close to your travel dates.
Plum Guide
Plum Guide offers a curated selection of high-end vacation homes. It focuses on quality and unique properties that meet rigorous standards.
- Every property is vetted through a strict quality test, ensuring high standards.
- Offers distinctive homes that provide a luxurious and memorable stay.
- The service includes tailored recommendations and detailed descriptions.
- Premium quality comes at a higher cost.
- Fewer listings compared to broader platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com.
Airbnb
Airbnb is a widely popular platform. It offers diverse accommodation options, including rooms in shared homes, entire apartments, and unique stays like yurts and castles.
- From budget-friendly rooms to luxurious villas, Airbnb has something for everyone.
- Staying in a local’s home can provide a more authentic travel experience.
- Suitable for both short and long-term stays..
- The quality of listings can vary significantly.
- Additional service and cleaning fees can increase the total cost.
My Choice
If I had to choose the best option for my next trip, it would depend on my specific needs.
For flexibility and a wide range of choices, I recommend Booking.com. For a family vacation, Vrbo would be my pick for its full-property options. For a luxurious and unique stay, I’d choose Plum Guide.
If I want a local experience with diverse options, Airbnb would be my top choice.
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Step 5 – Plan your London itinerary 📋
In this step, we’ll tackle the exciting challenge of crafting your London itinerary. Discover how to organize your days effectively to make the most of your time in the city.
Planning your itinerary is key. It helps you prioritize attractions, optimize travel to London routes, and ensure you have a memorable experience. It’s filled with adventures and relaxation.
Some Personal Experiences in Planning Itinerary:
Here is a list of some personal experiences that will help you plan your itinerary :
Create a Priority List:
I’ll start by making a list of places and things I want to see and do in London. I’ll categorize these into “must-dos” and “nice-to-dos.” This will help me prioritize my activities.
Use a Map for Clustering:
Using a map of London, I’ll mark the “must-dos” with red dots. The “nice-to-dos” will be marked with green dots.
This visual aid will help me see where the clusters of attractions are. It will make planning my days more efficient.
Plan by Area:
I’ll organize my daily itinerary around these clusters. This way, I can explore one area thoroughly each day. It will save time and reduce travel between distant locations.
For example, I could spend one day visiting the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and nearby attractions.
Include Downtime:
London can be exhausting with a packed schedule. I’ll make sure to include some downtime in my itinerary. This might mean relaxing in a park or enjoying a leisurely meal at a local cafe.
Flexibility for Weather:
I’ll build flexibility into my plans to account for the unpredictable British weather.
If it rains, I can switch to indoor activities like museums and galleries. I’ll also have some backup plans in case of unexpected changes.
Comfortable Footwear:
Since London involves a lot of walking, I’ll wear comfortable shoes. This will keep my feet happy throughout the day and make exploring the city more enjoyable.
Stay Hydrated:
I’ll carry a water bottle to stay hydrated, especially during the summer months. It’s easy to forget to drink enough water when busy sightseeing.
Check Opening Hours:
I’ll research the opening hours and recommended visiting times for each attraction. This will help me avoid closed doors and make the most of my time. I’ll also look for any special events or closures.
Use Public Transport Wisely:
I’ll take advantage of London’s efficient public transport system to get around. Using an Oyster card or contactless payment will make traveling easy and comfortable.
By following these tips, I will craft a meticulously planned itinerary for my trip to London. This ensures I see all the city highlights while leaving room for spontaneity and relaxation.
Step 6 – Book tours, attractions, experiences, and activities 🎟
Once your itinerary is set, it’s time to book tours, tickets, and activities. Availability may vary closer to your departure, so keep an eye out.
For first-time London visitors, the London Pass includes free hop-on-hop-off bus tour and a digital guide. It offers access to over 90 attractions.
Purchase from Get Your Guide for easy cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
I recommend the following companies for London tours, tickets, and activities:
Get Your Guide consistently provides excellent experiences. Their platform offers a diverse array of tours and activities for every interest. Booking is straightforward, and they offer a flexible cancellation policy for peace of mind.
Viator is another dependable option with a wide range of experiences. Their customer service is reliable, and reviews help choose the best activities.
Walks (Take Walks) offers engaging walking tours led by knowledgeable guides. These tours provide in-depth insights into London’s history and culture.
Liv Tours offers high-quality guided tours with small group sizes. Their expert guides provide personalized attention and informative narratives.
These companies offer excellent options for exploring London, catering to a variety of interests and preferences.
Step 7 – Predeparture checklists and tips
Preparing for my trip to London involves essential checklists and tips. It includes accessing Wi-Fi, deciding on payment methods, and planning transportation options.
Careful planning ensures a smooth journey.
How you will access Wi-Fi
To access Wi-Fi in London, you can follow these general steps based on the information provided in the sources:
Free Wi-Fi Hotspots in London:
London offers free Wi-Fi in various areas like Trafalgar Square, Hyde Park, and the London Eye, as well as in cafes, restaurants, and public spaces.
City-Wide Wi-Fi Network (Future Development):
Mayor Sadiq Khan is considering implementing a city-wide open-access Wi-Fi network in London. It aims to provide internet access across the capital without the need to connect to multiple networks.
London Underground Wi-Fi:
Wi-Fi is available in ticket halls, walkways, and platforms at over 260 London Underground stations. This service is provided by Transport for London (TFL).
Three Network’s Wi-Fi Service:
Three offers free Wi-Fi on the London Underground. It allows you to stay connected during your journeys underground by connecting to the Three_WIFI network.
These options cater to different locations and scenarios, providing a range of choices for accessing Wi-Fi in London.
How will you pay for things – cash or cards/contactless?
Managing finances in London involves having cash on hand. It’s useful for small purchases or where cards aren’t accepted, like parking meters.
If you want to avoid credit card use due to currency exchange fees, consider a Wise card.
Offered by Wise, known for efficient, cost-effective international transactions, this card is accessible with a Wise account. It’s available to individuals in countries like the US, New Zealand, Australia, and Europe.
To apply, you’ll need a multi-currency Wise account. It functions like a debit card, allowing spending wherever Mastercard is accepted.
With Wise, payments can be made in over 50 currencies globally, and cash can be withdrawn, with the amount varying by country.
Opening a Wise account is free, making it convenient for managing finances while traveling in London or abroad.
Deciding what to pack
Deciding what to pack for my trip is crucial. I consider the weather forecast and planned activities carefully.
Essentials like comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are a priority. I also pack travel-sized toiletries and versatile items to maximize space.
I include necessary documents and specific items for planned activities. Planning and packing strategically ensures a stress-free trip to London.
How will you get from the airport to your hotel?
If you’re someone who values convenience and likes to plan, consider booking a private transfer. With a private transfer, you can bypass the stress of navigating unfamiliar cities with your luggage after a long flight.
However, if you prefer exploring public transportation options, London offers a variety of choices.
From London Heathrow, you can opt for the Tube (Piccadilly Line), Elizabeth Line, or Heathrow Express. Taxis are also readily available outside arrivals at each terminal.
Similarly, travelers arriving at London Gatwick have several transportation options to choose from. Apart from the coaches and taxis, you can also consider shuttle buses for a convenient transfer to the city center.
For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, shared shuttles are available from both Heathrow and Gatwick airports. These allow you to share a ride with fellow travelers heading in the same direction. This option reduces costs but still provides a comfortable journey.
If your accommodation isn’t available for check-in until later, find nearby luggage storage options. This allows you to explore London without carrying your bags.
