Where to Stay in London: 11 Best Areas & Hotels (by a Local)

Get your tea ready, and let’s start this guide on where to stay in London! I lived in England’s capital when I was a student and absolutely loved my time there! 

London is huuuge, and each neighborhood is so different from one another, it can give you a completely different feel! If I were to recommend just one area, I would say Covent Garden is the best area to stay for tourists. 

There you’ll find countless attractions, pubs, and epic hotels! However, if that’s not your scene, fear not, as I’ll show you 11 incredible neighborhoods (more commonly known as boroughs in the UK), each with its individual vibe!

Not only that, but I also researched all the accommodation there is in the city and chose only the best rated ones (and sorted them by area and price for your convenience!). 

Read this post because I made it easy to directly pick and book your ideal place to stay in just a couple of clicks. 

Remember, no matter when you’re visiting London, book your hotels in advance! Accommodation is not cheap, and the good ones disappear faster than tickets to Harry Potter World!

Quick Picks for Your Stay…

Here are the best hotels in Covent Garden:

• Best luxury hotel: Covent Garden Hotel
• Best mid-range hotel: Studio Apartment
• Best budget hotel: Z Hotel Holborn

---

Watch my video, it will give you a visual explanation of all the areas:

---

I know from experience that London is pretty confusing! So here’s a map to help you visualize the best neighborhoods to stay in London:

• Where to stay in London for first-timers – Covent Garden, Westminster or Southbank
• Best boroughs in London for families – Notting Hill and Kensington
• Where to stay in London for luxury – Kensington & Chelsea
• Best place to stay for nightlife – Soho and Camden Town
• Best area for budget travelers – Brixton & Peckham
• The trendiest neighborhood – Shoreditch & Spitalfields
• Best neighborhood to stay for a business trip – City of London
• Top areas for shopping – Oxford Street and Covent Garden
• Best areas to stay for walking – Covent Garden, Leicester Square or Soho

1. Covent Garden – best place for first-timers

Set in London’s exciting West End, Covent Garden is the best place to start your British adventures and a great spot for tourists who want to stay 2 nights or 3 days in town. 

With countless attractions for all types of travelers, this area is conveniently located in Central London, with easy access to all the other parts of the city!

You can’t beat the atmosphere in Covent Garden! I loved walking around its streets (no matter the time) and just taking in that capital city buzz! 

You’ll stumble upon so many museums, theaters, and famous squares (Leicester’s Square, the Royal Opera House, the British Museum and the London Transport Museum are must-see) while you’re here. 

PRO TIP: The British Museum now requires a reservation. When I visited I made a reservation and entered much faster, whereas the line without reservation had about 30 minutes wait time.

There’s never a dull moment in Covent Garden, and once the sun sets, you’ll definitely agree with me! That’s when the pubs get as busy as bees! Crown & Anchor is a great place to start the night, just get there before rush hour (~5 PM) if you want to grab a seat!

NOTE: Covent Garden is right in the middle of the city, so the tube station (which is tiny) gets super busy! Instead of taking the tube from there, walk down to Leicester Square for the Piccadilly line, or go to Charing Cross station instead (northern line) for a quieter ride! 

PRO TIP: Use a contactless card on London transport. Tap the yellow reader and remember to use the same card each time you tap in and out (not a phone or watch).

NOTE 2: As I mentioned earlier, Covent Garden is part of a bigger area called West End, it includes Covent Garden itself, Soho, Leicester Square, Oxford Street and Mayfair. If you decide to stay anywhere in the West End on your first visit, you will not be mistaken! 

Luxury (US$320 and up)

• Covent Garden Hotel – are you looking for luxurious places to stay in London close to all the popular attractions, including Trafalgar Square and Oxford Street? This one’s for you! It has a spa center, gorgeous rooms, and 2 restaurants. 
• The Henrietta Hotel – I love the decor and style of this hotel! When you’re not exploring the West End, you can relax at the fancy bar or grab a bite at the 2 restaurants on-site. 

Mid-range (US$190 – US$320)

• Z Hotel Covent Garden – if you’re on the search for great mid-range hotels in London’s West End with a central location, look no further! This place is only a short walk from Oxford Street, with family rooms and free Wi-Fi.
• Studio Apartment – set in one of the best areas to stay in London, this accommodation comes with self-catering apartments with a washing machine!

Budget (up to US$190)

• Z Hotel Holborn – offering easy access to all the attractions in London’s West End, including Oxford Street, this affordable hotel has modern rooms with a bar and a private bathroom. 
• The Z Hotel Strand – a very nice budget option with cozy rooms with private bathrooms, a desk, and coffee-making facilities.

2. Westminster & Victoria – best for cultural sights

Wondering where to stay in London to walk everywhere? Then this section is for you! 

Although these are 2 separate areas, I decided to make just 1 section since both share a similar vibe and offer the same type of attractions, many of them among the best things to do in London!

And most of those sites are museums and other buildings rich in history! Yep, these areas are perfect for immersing in the city’s culture! 

Kids of all ages will love it around here, and there are also lots of beautiful parks so it’s a really mixture of cool activities, famous landmarks, and green spots (especially in the St James’s area which is a short walk away from here).

When I say famous landmarks, I actually mean FAMOUS – here you’ll find the Big Ben, Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery, the Houses of Parliament (also known as the Palace of Westminster) and Westminster Abbey!

Over 16 royal weddings have taken place at Westminster Abbey since its inception. The first one took place in the 1100s, wow!

Oh, and let’s not forget about the iconic Buckingham Palace, the royal residence, which you can visit but not always! If you want to go there, check out our post on how to buy tickets for the Palace!

Westminster is the “political center” of London with a rich history behind it and the perfect place for people interested in discovering cool facts about the city.

As for Victoria, that’s where you’ll find the very busy Victoria Station, which is great as it has lots of travel connections!

Luxury (US$320 and up)

• Hotel 41 – here’s one of the best hotels in London ever! It’s located in London Victoria, within walking distance of Buckingham Palace, and it has a stylish black-and-white theme and 2 restaurants.
• Rubens At The Palace – enjoy the views of Buckingham Palace while staying in this hotel with individually decorated rooms, 2 fab restaurants where you can enjoy tea time, and a bar.

Mid-range (US$190 – US$320)

• The Tophams Hotel – gotta love a hotel that has class! This place offers some amazing rooms with work desks and free Wi-Fi, and there’s also a bar on-site where you can grab a drink!
• The Westminster London – set just a few minutes away from Big Ben and The Houses of Parliament, this fun hotel comes with 2 restaurants, a bar, and stylish rooms.

Budget (up to US$190)

• The Belgrave Hotel – sleep like a baby in the cozy rooms of this hotel set a short walk away from Victoria Station. The accommodation comes with a complimentary breakfast and a bar.
• The Z Hotel Victoria – here’s another option with a lower score than I’d normally recommend, but there aren’t many budget options in this area! The rooms are stylish, with air-conditioning and a private bathroom.

Subscribe here to get up to 35% off your accommodation for your next trip!

3. South Bank & Southwark – for the best views

We’re crossing on the other side of the River Thames to Southwark and Southbank, 2 amazing areas that I glued together as they’re also super similar and share the same attractions!

These areas are great for those who want to explore cafés and restaurants, visit as many attractions as possible and go out for drinks once the sun sets! A great place to try some amazing food here is Borough Market.

NOTE: You don’t need to tip where you get your own drinks or food, like in coffee shops or pubs. In restaurants, a 12.5% tip is usually added to the bill, so just pay the final amount. It’s always fine to ask to split the bill.

The views are also so fab, especially at night when they turn on all the lights (I loved walking around that time when I lived in London and then stopping at Lord Nelson, a quirky pub for some drinks)!

You will find the famous London Eye and The Shard here, and we know how to get the best deals on the tickets: see London Eye tickets and the tickets for the viewing platform at the Shard! 

Don’t miss the weekend used book fair that takes place along the South Bank! The vibe is super cool and you can find some real gems!

One of my favorite museums is set here, too, Tate Modern, which you can visit for free (woohoo!) After a visit to the Tate, I would just go and walk for hours and admire the architecture! It’s so much fun!

To be or not be? You can find that out while catching a theater show at Shakespeare’s Globe, right near the Tate!

By the way, London is packed with iconic avenues, and if you want to see a part of them, check out our post with the best streets in the city!

Luxury (US$380 and up)

• Sea Containers London – decorated by award-winning designer Tom Dixon, this hotel is set a short walk away from Tate Modern and offers a riverside restaurant, an agua spa, and a rooftop terrace!
• London Marriott Hotel County Hall – go for a swim in the pool of this gorgeous hotel that has luxurious rooms with private bathrooms and a restaurant with river views!

Mid-range (US$190 – US$380)

• Holiday Inn Express Southwark – a great middle-priced hotel within walking distance of plenty of nightlife options, as well as important sights such as the London Eye and the Tower Bridge. They have an on-site restaurant, free Wi-Fi, and air-conditioned rooms.
• Novotel London Blackfriars – want a boutique hotel with a view? Then check out this stunning one with an indoor swimming pool and a restaurant. 

Budget (up to US$190)

• ibis Styles London – here’s a great place to stay in London, near the London Bridge Tube Station, that comes with comfy and clean rooms with private bathrooms!
• Marlin Waterloo – simple and modern, yet affordable! This accommodation offers family rooms and a fitness center.

4. Soho – where to stay in London for nightlife

If you’re interested in live music, cafés, underground clubs, and unique bars where you can party until the morning comes (even during the week), Soho is the place for you.

Soho is only 15 min walking from Covent Garden. Both Covent Garden and Soho are part of West End, a bigger district that is the heart of the city. 

Soho is packed with theaters where you can watch famous shows like Phantom of the Opera at His Majesty’s Theatre! 

It’s truly one of the best areas to stay in London for nightlife! That’s why I would avoid staying here overnight if you’re coming with kids, as it’s pretty busy, especially during the weekends!

Once upon a time, Soho used to be the capital’s Red Light District! But things have changed a lot since then, and the area is much safer now. However, it’s still a super fun place to be, especially after the sun sets!

That’s when the pubs get filled, and everyone is suddenly super happy, and you hear them having a great time, laughing, drinking, and dancing!

I loved stopping at Piccadilly Circus station and coming here for a cocktail after a day of exploring the town! Usually I’d go to Old Compton Street, a famous street where there are many great bars, including lots of LGBTQ+ ones!

Definitely head to Thirst Bar while here, to grab a cocktail and hit the dancefloor with your friends!

Luxury (US$380 and up)

• The Soho Hotel, Firmdale Hotels – this superb 5-star hotel in Soho is ideal for nightlife lovers who want to be near Trafalgar Square. Some of the best things about this hotel are the on-site gym, beauty treatment room, on-site restaurant, and bar.
• Karma Sanctum Soho Hotel – be close to all the fab attractions while staying in this hotel that comes with fancy rooms, a cinema on-site, and an outdoor hot tub!

Mid-range (US$230 – US$380)

• Mimi’s Hotel Soho – the perfect spot to relax after a night out! You’ll love the rooms of this hotel, which are spacious and come with a kitchenette. You’ll also find a lounge area and bar!
• Soho Room – a great place to stay in Soho that offers everything you need for your holiday, including a shared bathroom and a kitchen!

Budget (up to US$230)

• The Z Hotel Tottenham Court Road – here’s an affordable place that offers air-conditioned rooms with a private bathroom and a continental breakfast every morning! 
• Soho Room – you’ll love this cozy room with vintage furnishings that has a shared bathroom and a TV. 

5. Camden Town – coolest area for artsy people

Explore Camden if you love gorgeous canalways, hidden clubs, street art, and a funky rockstar vibe! ! 

It is home to numerous attractions, including the famous Camden Market (see this post for the best things to do in Camden), and the London Zoo, where you’ll have a blast with your little ones!

NOTE: If you want to make them even happier, take them to King’s Cross Station (just a 25 min walk away) where they can see the famous Platform 9¾ (map)!

From there you can also take the Eurostar train to visit other places in Europe!

I also hope you like street food, because Camden is basically the king of street food in North London, especially in the market. Just get lost in the narrow alleyways and try whatever you come across!

Live music also calls Camden its forever home, so head over to The Camden Assembly Pub in Chalk Farm for an alternative night with the locals!

Luxury (US$250 and up)

• London Marriott Hotel Regents Park – just steps away from London Zoo, this gorgeous hotel has a pool, modern rooms, and every amenity under the sun. Plus, it’s right next to Swiss Cottage tube station, and most units have a balcony!
• York & Albany – ever wanted to stay in a former coaching house from the 1800s? Now it’s your chance! This hotel, located near the London Zoo, offers family rooms and a restaurant!

Mid-range (US$150 – US$250)

• Camden Enterprise Hotel – this family-friendly hotel is housed in a Victorian building, and it comes with cool rooms with a TV (perfect for movie nights) and a restaurant. 
• Camden Town Apartments – looking for a cool apartment for your family? Then check out this one, which has so much space, a kitchen, and a balcony. 

Budget (up to US$150)

• Alhambra Hotel – affordable and so nice! Although the rooms are small, they will fit everyone, and you can even ask for an extra bed! 
• Crestfield Hotel – perfect for a budget stay in London with the family, this hotel has rooms with private bathrooms and a TV!

6. Kensington & Chelsea – best place for luxury

Kensington and Chelsea are 2 of the wealthiest areas in the entirety of London, which are located a bit further away from Central London (around 30 min by public transport)

These areas are home to London’s Museum Quarter, so they’re absolutely recommended for culture lovers but also for families, as both are super tranquil and not too busy!

Some of the most well-known museums in South Kensington are the Victoria & Albert Museum and the Natural History Museum, just to name a few. 

And, of course, let’s not forget about the iconic Kensington Palace! The royal residence and former home of Princess Diana is a must-see, and we’ve got all the tips on how you can buy the best tickets.

Now let’s move to Chelsea, an area many celebrities call home, including Stella McCartney and Robbie Williams!

Chelsea is one of my favorite spots to walk around on a Sunday afternoon. Especially in the morning when there’s barely anyone on the street! 

Some other great areas to check out for luxury are Knightsbridge and Belgravia close to Hyde Park. Theere, you’ll find famous department stores like Harrods, Harvey Nicholls, and fancy schmancy restaurants to treat yourself!

You won’t even have to worry about safety here as it’s one of the safest places to stay in London for tourists!

Luxury (US$440 and up)

• Milestone Hotel Kensington – if you’re searching for luxurious properties in West London, check out this boutique hotel! It’s only a few minutes away from awesome attractions, including Hyde Park, and it offers 5-star service, a fitness center, a luxurious spa, and more.
• Sloane Place – gotta love a place that has such a fab design! I love the colors and all the furnishings! Here you’ll find a bar, a terrace and also a restaurant. 

Mid-range (US$250 – US$440)

• Kensington Prime Hotel – modern and so cool! This hotel has everything you need for your stay, including rooms with a lot of space, a coffee maker, and a garden! 
•  London Lodge Hotel – can’t say no to a hotel with cozy rooms, right? I feel like you’ll love this one which offers a delicious breakfast, a restaurant and city views! 

Budget (up to US$250)

• Lee Abbey London – an affordable place near all the big South Kensington attractions with a restaurant and a terrace. 
• The Harrington Residences – this is a great place for people who want to save money and cook at home, as it has a kitchen and also family rooms!

7. Mayfair & Marylebone – where to stay for shopping

Hope you’ve prepared your wallets because London doesn’t let anyone leave the premises before they’ve shopped until they drop (I’m telling you from experience)! 

And the best places to go shopping are Mayfair and Marylebone! Home to the iconic Oxford, Regent and Bond Streets, these 2 areas are like heaven for fashionistas!

You’ll find everything from designer shops (Chanel, Louis Vuitton, etc) to high street shops and also the famous department store, Selfridges! 

Of course, there’s more to it! 

Both places boast gorgeous architecture, amazing places to eat (especially on Marylebone high street during Sunday’s farmers market) and some fun museums as well!

Some of my favorites are The Sherlock Holmes Museum and Madame Tussauds London.

Both boroughs are a great choice because while they might not be walking distance to the center, you will get to the main attractions within 20-25 mins by public transport. 

Luxury (US$320 and up)

• The Landmark London – you’re going to take so many pics in the glass-roofed 8-story atrium of this hotel! It looks incredible, as does their award winning restaurant, the indoor pool and the spa where you can relax after a day out! 
• The Chesterfield Mayfair – set right near Oxford Street, this fabulous hotel is the epitome of British elegance! Here you’ll find fabulous rooms with a gorgeous design and an award-winning restaurant that serves the usual afternoon tea! 

Mid-range (US$230 – US$320)

• Marylebone Inn – a great hotel that offers modern rooms with a small kitchenette (perfect for those who want to eat at home too), a flat-screen Tv and a great location near Baker street. 
• Gunmakers – loving the modern and vintage aesthetics of this hotel that comes with a great location, rooms with garden views and an on-site restaurant.

Budget (up to US$230)

• Central London Rooms – this affordable hotel is super cozy and it offers rooms with a shared bathroom, a shared kitchen and a lounge area where you can watch Tv!
• Marylebone Double Room – perfect for those on a budget, this hotel has a modern room with access to a shared kitchen, free Wi-Fi and air-conditioning! 

8. Shoreditch & Spitalfields – best place for artsy people

If you love art galleries, and street art and vintage shops (Rokit is a personal favorite) then Shoreditch and Spitalfields should be your top choices for areas.

Some really famous street art pieces that you should see are “A Couple Hold Hands in the Street” on Princelet Street by the famous artist Stik, and the “Hanbury Street bird” on Hanbury by Belgian artist Roa!

These neighboring areas in East London are great for young people interested in arts and culture. They’re also bursting with vibrant nightlife, so there will always be something to do here, regardless of when you’re visiting.

Plus, Shoreditch is a great place to go if you want to try as many international cuisines as possible. I actually stayed in the East End on my first London trip and loved every minute of it!

Boxpark food court is a great place to start your culinary quest as it’s filled with lots of stands and cafes! 

There were tons of awesome shops around, and I stayed very close to Liverpool Street Station, meaning I could reach any central area in London in 20 to 30 min!

While here, you should also check out the Brick Lane Market, from Saturday (11 AM – 6 PM) to Sunday (10 AM – 5 PM)! You’ll find countless food vendors and clothing stalls! 

Don’t forget to take a gander down “Curry Street” at Brick Lane, where there are tons of Indian restaurants!

Luxury (US$380 and up)

• One Hundred Shoreditch – wake up to a stunning view of the city while staying at this hotel that has rooms with large windows, a fitness center, and a bar. 
• Montcalm East – you’re going to love this luxurious place, which comes with contemporary rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, an indoor swimming pool, and a spa center. 

Mid-range (US$190 – US$380)

• Shoreditch Private Studio – a cozy apartment with a spacious room and private bathroom. Located near Brick Lane, this apartment is perfect for those of you who want to be near all the big attractions in this area.
• citizenM London – such a cool hotel set in one of the best areas to stay in London! The accommodation features stylish rooms, vibrant artwork, and a restaurant with amazing views!

Budget (up to US$190)

• Modern Flat – looking for an affordable place in Shoreditch? Then check out this one, which offers a fully-equipped kitchen, free Wi-Fi, and a TV.
• 331 – here’s another cool spot where you can relax after a day of exploring! It has a flat-screen TV, so much space and a lot of space!

9. City of London – best place for a business trip

This might be confusing for some, but just to clarify, the City of London (also known as The City) is just a small area in Central London that is packed with big office buildings of all shapes and sizes!

I stayed there and I definitely recommend this area. It’s super nice and even though it’s less residential there are still lots of supermarkets and stores around. The area is within walking distance of almost anywhere. You will need about 30-40 minutes to walk to all the major attractions, passing by some amazing places along the way.

Some places that you shouldn’t miss are London Bridge, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Museum of London and the Tower of London. If you’re planning on visiting, it may be helpful to read our posts on how to buy tickets for the Cathedral and for the Tower.

If you have more time, you could also start a quest to find all the unique-looking office buildings like The Gherkin and the Walkie Talkie building which is home to Sky Garden, a fab restaurant with a breathtaking view!

Luxury (US$320 and up)

• The Ned – set in the former Midland Bank building, this gorgeous hotel offers rooms with a 1920s aesthetic, including some vintage furnishings! You’ll also find a pool and a fab restaurant where you can indulge in local and international cuisines. 
• Canopy by Hilton London City – get the free bikes and explore the city while staying at one of the best downtown London hotels that offers bright rooms with modern furnishings and a fitness center. 

Mid-range (US$190 – US$320)

• Leonardo Royal London City – relax in the spa center of this hotel or go for a swim after a day of exploring this neighborhood in London! The hotel is a short walk from Tower Bridge and features a cocktail lounge!
• Kings Wardrobe Apartments – just a short walk from St. Paul’s Cathedral, this hotel offers cozy self-catering studios and apartments with comfy beds!

Budget (up to US$190) 

• Marylin Lodge – if you’re traveling with your friends or kids, this apartment would be perfect as it has lots of space and is just a short walk from the Tower of London. The family-friendly accommodation has 2 rooms, a kitchen, and a fitness center.
• Boutique Studio – a lovely studio apartment right in the middle of all the action, which comes with a small kitchen, a TV, and free Wi-Fi. 

10. Notting Hill – best area for a romantic getaway

Notting Hill is full of pastel-colored Victorian townhouses and narrow cobblestone streets, perfect for some unforgettable pictures and plenty of quiet romantic strolls with your partner.

This area has been featured in so many rom-coms that it will be hard not to feel the romance! 

Make sure you stop by the famous St. Luke’s Mews street where one of the most famous scenes from the movie Love Actually was filmed! 

Although you may not bump into Julia Roberts or Hugh Grant on the streets as in the famous Notting Hill movie, this area is so unique that you’ll fall in love with it instantly! 

If you’re a fan of the movie, definitely stop by The Notting Hill Bookshop, which made a quick appearance in the movie (in this scene)! 

There are tons of antique shops, boutique stores, and cool cafés in this neighborhood, but my favorite thing has to be the Portobello Road Market, which takes place every weekend.

I found some of the coolest and most unusual items here that went into my personal collection, and they’re all one-of-a-kind pieces, so if you’re into vintage products and old clothes, then you’ll probably want to spend your whole weekend here. If you are and want more suggestions of places to visit, have a look at our post with the best things to do in Notting Hill. I give all my secret favorite spots there!

Luxury (US$380 and up)

• The Laslett – in case you’re looking for a luxury place on the West side of London, you just found it! This superb accommodation is located on a gorgeous street and it has 5-star service and many quality facilities. It’s also great for couples, your partner will love it!
• The Princess Royal – a hotel suited for a royal couple! This place has such fancy decor, I love it! It also has a terrace and a restaurant where you can enjoy romantic dinners!

Mid-range (US$190 – US$380)

• Notting Hill Guest Flat – a fully-equipped apartment that comes with everything you need, including a kitchen, a TV, and the perfect location in this gorgeous neighborhood in London! 
• Ruby Zoe Hotel London – spend an unforgettable time with your partner in this hotel that’s set a short walk away from Portobello Market and that offers stylish rooms and a bar. 

Budget (up to US$190)

• Vancouver Studios – you are going to love this place! It offers incredible decor, crazy wallpapers, and paintings! Grab your partner and a book and chill in their romantic terrace garden. 
• Ravna Gora – an affordable place that offers a complimentary breakfast, a bar, and a 24-hour front desk! 

11. Brixton & Peckham – where to stay in London on a budget

If you want to base yourself in a very vivid place where it seems there’s always something happening and want to meet other travelers, then these 2 areas (which are close to each other) are just perfect!

Brixton is also the birthplace of David Bowie, and it’s one of my recommendations if you’re interested in cool food places (especially at Brixton Market), live music venues, or lively pubs.

Brixton and Peckham are great for those of you who don’t want to spend a fortune on accommodation as you’ll probably find better deals!

While here, you can join some fun tours, eat delicious food at the Market, and definitely end your day with a cheeky pub night at The Prince of Wales, an iconic, multi-story venue with themed nights and a cool terrace!

Luxury (US$230 and up)

• Half Moon – if you’re interested in nightlife and bars at night and visiting the main sights during the day, this luxury accommodation is for you! Every visitor who stays here can enjoy the superb rooms, free toiletries, daily breakfast, and more.
• Spacious Apartment – how cool is this apartment? It’s super spacious, and comes with 2 rooms, a kitchen and a balcony where you can relax after exploring London! 

Mid-range (US$130 – US$230)

• Victoria Inn – a cozy accommodation with modern rooms but a super authentic British pub feel in the downstairs restaurants and bar. Grab an English breakfast in the morning and get ready for another day of exploring in London!
• Liberty Street – feel at home in this amazing place with a room with a shared bathroom, a flat-screen TV, and a comfy bed! 

Budget (up to US$130)

• Oat Homes – looking for a cheap place in this fun neighborhood in London? Then check out this one, which offers a lovely room (super colorful) that has a kitchen and a TV.
• The Apartment Brixton – a simple yet super cozy apartment that comes with a terrace and a shared lounge area!

👑 Luxury price:	US$450
💵 Mid-range:	US$250
🛏️ Budget:	US$100
📍 Best area:	Covent Garden
🛎️ Best luxury hotel:	Covent Garden Hotel, Firmdale Hotels
🧳 Best mid-range hotel:	Z Hotel Covent Garden
👛 Best budget hotel:	Z Hotel Holborn

Notable Mentions

As I repeated throughout the post, London has countless incredible areas, and I made sure to add the main ones without confusing everyone too much. 

However, there are 2 spots that I didn’t include but wanted to make sure you all knew about them.

• Greenwich – This family-friendly area is filled with green spaces, museums and markets! Set around 40 min away from Central London, this neighborhood is perfect for a relaxed holiday in the capital
• Bloomsbury – Known as the intellectual and literary hub of the city and for its gorgeous Georgian architecture, this area is pretty central and it boasts green areas, some museums and plenty of cafes!

Transportation guide

Transportation in London is pretty organized. As I realized when I visited the city, there are many ways to get around the city, from buses, trams, taxis, and Uber.

PRO TIP: Use the Citymapper app for quick and easy city navigation.

The bus and tram systems are well-connected all around the city. A one-hour adult ticket costs US$2.25 (£1.75) and the daily cap costs around US$4 (£5.25). If you need more information about public transportation, check out this website.

You don’t have to buy tickets to use public transport. You can simply use a contactless debit or credit card. Just tap the card (or your device) on the yellow reader when entering, and remember to tap the same card (or device) when going out, as using another card or device counts as a different payment method and it won’t register the start and end of your journey properly.

NOTE: You can also tap your card or device for the train from Gatwick Airport and on the tube from Heathrow Airport.

Another convenient way to get around is by taxi. There is a minimum fare dor cabs of US$4.90 (£3.80) at all times. The rest of the fare depends on the lenght of the journey, the time and the day. Check out this table for more detailed information.

However, when I was in London, I also used Uber many times. In my opinion, the Ubers weren’t as expensive as I expected, and I opted for them instead of taxis because they were much more available everywhere around the city.

BONUS 1: Best apartments in Central London

Not a big fan of hotels? Or maybe you’re traveling with your family and friends and want to save some money! Then you need to check this bonus with the best apartments in London! 

The city has TONS of awesome apartments, and below, I listed the best ones I could find only in the central London neighborhoods. I already ordered from most to least expensive:

Luxury (US$230 and up)

• Modern Studio – this beautiful and spacious studio is perfect for 2 people! It’s located in Fitzrovia, a residential area near Leicester Square and Hyde Park. The place has a kitchen and free Wi-Fi. 
• Covent Garden Flat – set in Covent Garden, this fab and modern flat looks incredible! It has room for 2 people, a kitchen, and a shared patio.

Mid-range (US$100 – US$230)

• Clover Court – fancy accommodation with a stunning city view? You’ve come to the right place then! This modern apartment in Canary Wharf has ceiling-to-floor windows, lots of space, and a kitchen!
• Penywern Apartment Earls Court – perfect for those who want to explore the South Kensington area, this apartment has room for 3 people, and it comes with a kitchen and a garden view! 

Budget (up to US$100)

• Brand New Extension – relax after a full day of exploring Leicester Square and Hyde Park on the little terrace with a garden view of this cozy apartment in Ealing. The accommodation also has a fully-equipped kitchen, a dining area, and a flat-screen TV.
• Kings Wardrobe Apartments – set in the City of London, one of the best areas to stay in London, this place offers a great studio apartment with room for 2 people and a kitchenette.

BONUS 2: Best hotels near the London Airports

There’s nothing that I love to do more after a flight (especially one that took ages) than to sleep for hours (or even a day)! If you’re arriving super late or you have a layover, then I recommend staying in a hotel near the airport.

I’ve only included a handful of options for the main 2 airports in the city, but if you’re looking for more and you’re using Heathrow, make sure you check out this post with the best hotels inside and around Heathrow Airport!

Let’s see which are the best hotels near the London Airports!

London Heathrow Aiport (LHR)

Luxury (US$250 and up)

• Hilton Garden Inn – tired after that long flight? Don’t you worry, the comfortable bed at this luxury hotel will help you rest and wake up feeling like a brand new person! Located a 3-minute walk away from the airport, this accommodation has family rooms and a restaurant.

Mid-range (US$150 – US$250)

• Staybridge Suites London – offering a continental breakfast and a terrace, this hotel, which is located a 10-minute bus drive from Heathrow Airport, is perfect for you. The rooms are equipped with a kitchenette and a flat-screen TV.

Budget (up to US$150)

• Leonardo London Heathrow Airport – a great affordable place just a 5 min drive from the airport that offers a shuttle bus, rooms with a TV, and an on-site restaurant. 

Gatwick Airport (LGW)

Luxury (US$250 and up)

• Sofitel London Gatwick – I’m sure we all love a quiet sleep without any disruptions, especially after a flight. The rooms of this hotel are soundproof, so you can rest for as long as you want. The airport is only a 20-minute bus drive away, and once you get here, make sure you check their 3 restaurants and 2 bars!

Mid-range (US$150 – US$250)

• Bloc Hotel – turn on your ambient light and relax in your cozy room at this hotel that’s located in the South Terminal of London’s Gatwick Airport. The accommodation offers a smart TV and family rooms.

Budget (up to US$150)

• Courtyard by Marriott – here’s an affordable place to stay just a 10-minute walk from the London Gatwick Airport’s South Terminal, which has family rooms and a restaurant.

FAQs about where to stay in London

Conclusion

How incredible is London? I lived there and still can’t get over the fact that there’s always something exciting to do, no matter the time or place!

I hope this guide on where to stay in London, which has the best areas and hotels, helped you decide which spot to pick for your trip!

If you are still undecided, below are my 2 top picks. But also, whatever accommodation you choose after your research, my recommendation is to stay in Zone 1 and 2 (check the tube map). Even if it’s much cheaper, in the end you’ll end up paying more on transport and you’ll also waste a lot of time commuting! 

• Covent Garden Hotel – taken straight out of a catalog this fashionable hotel comes with elegant rooms and 2 restaurants.
• Z Hotel Covent Garden – a great place in the West End that boasts rooms with city views and a bar.

Voila! Don’t forget that London can get super busy. That’s why I recommend booking your hotels in advance (which may help you score a better price). 

Enjoy your London shenanigans and if you want to know more about the city, we have a lot of really good guides on London here!

Victoria

---