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  • How much does it cost to travel to London? (Average Daily Cost)
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Is London expensive to visit?

  • How much do I need for a trip to London?
  • Accommodation, Food, Entertainment, and Transportation Costs
  • Travel Guide

How much does it cost to travel to London?

You should plan to spend around $236 (£190) per day on your vacation in London. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $43 (£34) on meals
  • $32 (£26) on local transportation
  • $306 (£246) on hotels

A one week trip to London for two people costs, on average, $3,305 (£2,653) . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 236 £ 190
  • One Week Per person $ 1,653 £ 1,327
  • 2 Weeks Per person $ 3,305 £ 2,653
  • One Month Per person $ 7,082 £ 5,686
  • One Week For a couple $ 3,305 £ 2,653
  • 2 Weeks For a couple $ 6,610 £ 5,306
  • One Month For a couple $ 14,165 £ 11,371

Are You an Experienced Traveler?

Help other travelers! Answer a quick question about your past travels. Click here: let's do it!

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to London cost?

A one week trip to London usually costs around $1,653 (£1,327) for one person and $3,305 (£2,653) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to London on average costs around $3,305 (£2,653) for one person and $6,610 (£5,306) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in London will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to London on average costs around $7,082 (£5,686) for one person and $14,165 (£11,371) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Independent Travel

Traveling Independently to London has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Prices in London are reasonable and comparable to your average travel destination. Hotels, food, and sightseeing are generally within normal price ranges.

Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, London is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Basel or Bellagio.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is London Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to London?

The average London trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these London travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers.

Accommodation Budget in London

Average daily costs.

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid for one person for accommodation in London is $153 (£123). For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in London is $306 (£246). This cost is from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation 1 Hotel or hostel for one person $ 153 £ 123
  • Accommodation 1 Typical double-occupancy room $ 306 £ 246

Hotel Prices in London

Looking for a hotel in London? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Kayak

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Actual Hotel Prices The average hotel room price in London based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $126. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Recommended Properties

  • Premier Inn London Angel Islington Budget Hotel - Kayak $ 95
  • Hotel 41 Luxury Hotel - Kayak $ 368

Transportation Budget in London

The cost of a taxi ride in London is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent $32 (£26) per person, per day, on local transportation in London.

  • Transportation 1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. $ 32 £ 26

Recommended Services

  • Windsor Castle - Private Transfer - Pickup & Return Viator $ 291
  • Shuttle transfer from your Hotel To Heathrow Airport - Super Saver Viator $ 57

Flights to London

Rental cars in london, what did other people spend on transportation in london.

Typical prices for Transportation in London are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in London, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

  • Taxi Ride £ 15
  • Heathrow Express £ 18
  • Luggage Storage £ 8.00
  • London Map £ 1.29
  • Oyster Card £ 36
  • Train to Gatwick Airport (2) £ 22
  • Oyster Card £ 27

Food Budget in London

While meal prices in London can vary, the average cost of food in London is $43 (£34) per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in London should cost around $17 (£14) per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in London is often higher than fast food prices or street food prices.

  • Food 2 Meals for one day $ 43 £ 34

Recommended

  • Traditional English Walking Food Tour With London Food Tours Viator $ 95
  • Tea and Doughnuts: Borough Market Walking Food Tour Viator $ 44

What did other people spend on Food in London?

Typical prices for Food in London are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in London, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

  • Lunch at Starbucks £ 13
  • Tea £ 6.00
  • Afternoon Tea at Fortnum & Mason £ 39
  • Morning Tea £ 6.35
  • Pastry £ 5.00
  • Sushi Dinner for One £ 18

Entertainment Budget in London

Entertainment and activities in London typically cost an average of $41 (£33) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

  • Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 41 £ 33

The Go City London Pass offers great discounts on attractions in London. With the Go City Explorer pass, you can choose to visit specific sights and attractions at a discount. Or, you can visit as many included attractions as you like with a multi-day All-Inclusive Pass. The average visitor saves 30% off of the regular admission prices.

Recommended Activities

  • British Museum & National Gallery of London Guided Tour - Semi-Private 8ppl… Viator $ 202
  • Walking Tour around Spitalfields in the East End of London Viator $ 82

What did other people spend on Entertainment in London?

Typical prices for Entertainment in London are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in London, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

  • Two Tickets to a Concert £ 83
  • London Symphony Orchestra £ 34
  • London Pass £ 47
  • Comedy Show £ 8.00

Tips and Handouts Budget in London

The average cost for Tips and Handouts in London is $4.18 (£3.35) per day. The usual amount for a tip in London is 10% - 20% .

  • Tips and Handouts 1 For guides or service providers $ 4.18 £ 3.35

Scams, Robberies, and Mishaps Budget in London

Unfortunately, bad things can happen on a trip. Well, you've just got to deal with it! The average price for a scam, robbery, or mishap in London is $23 (£18), as reported by travelers.

  • Scams, Robberies, and Mishaps 1 $ 23 £ 18

Alcohol Budget in London

The average person spends about $19 (£15) on alcoholic beverages in London per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

  • Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 19 £ 15
  • Pub Tour of Notting Hill & Kensington Viator $ 77
  • Pub Tour London (Drinking History) Viator $ 158

Water Budget in London

On average, people spend $5.04 (£4.04) on bottled water in London per day. The public water in London is considered safe to drink.

  • Water 2 Bottled water for one day $ 5.04 £ 4.04

Related Articles

London on a budget.

London

When to go?

Neighborhoods, food and dining, transportation, tips to save money in london, more related articles.

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The World Was Here First

Is London Expensive? London Trip Cost Guide in 2024

Last Updated on December 14, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

average london trip cost

Is London expensive to visit? Though it is one of the most diverse and dynamic cities on earth and has so much to offer visitors — from an incredible history to world-class museums to an incredible restaurant scene to some of the best theatre in existence — London also has a reputation for being quite a pricey destination. So how much will a London trip cost?

While London is one of the most expensive cities in the world, it is possible to visit on a budget with an average trip to London costing £75-245 per day (roughly $95-310 USD).

You can budget at the lower end if you’re staying in budget accommodation, cooking your own meals and visiting mainly free attractions. A higher budget is required if you prefer to stay in nicer accommodation and want to eat out regularly.

Having lived in this incredible city for a few years, I gained some great insight into the general costs associated with travelling to London.

Table of Contents

London Trip Cost Guide

This guide will break down prices across accommodation, transport, food, activities and entertainment to help you understand how expensive is London and where you can potentially save some budget.

Accommodation Prices

The first aspect of any London travel budget that you need to consider is the cost of accommodation as it is likely to take up the biggest percentage of your average cost of a trip to London. I am going to be frank here; traditional accommodation options in London can be expensive. This includes even the budget traveller strongholds of backpacker hostels.

And if you want to stay in a hostel dorm in or around Central London (and you don’t really want to be far from the centre because you will inevitably end up spending quite a lot of time on public transport if not), then you can expect to pay at least £35 per night for that privilege.

The Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Bridge in London.

If you’re travelling as a couple or with a friend, you might think you can save money by getting a private room in a hostel. However, Central London hostels tend to be just as expensive as a budget hotel, with prices clocking in at around £150 for the most basic of rooms.

It might seem a bit fruitless to expect to save any money on accommodation in London, however, this doesn’t have to be the case. Enter: Airbnb.

While entire private flats on Airbnb in London can be quite expensive, nevermind the fact that there is a considerable amount of controversy surrounding them (ie. they’re driving up rent prices and contributing to a housing crisis for people who actually live in the city – there is already and incredibly high cost of living in London), renting a private room through Airbnb is an incredibly popular and cost-effective way to cut down on your overall trip cost.

On average, a private room on Airbnb located in or close to Central London will start around £75 per night, depending on the location. If you are splitting this cost between two people, it can actually work out to be quite affordable to stay in London.

Of course, you’re not going to get all of the amenities associated with staying in a hotel or hostel, however, you do get the added benefit of seeing exactly what it’s like for locals in London (it’s not nearly as glamorous as you might think!) while saving money at the same time.

For those looking to stay in a hotel while in London, expect a budget to mid-range hotel to start at around £1050 per night a bit outside of the centre and going up to about £200 in Central London. For a high-end stay in the centre of the city, don’t expect to pay anything less than £250-300 per night.

St Paul's Cathedral in London.

Transportation Prices

London is HUGE and a surprisingly large amount of visitors don’t seem to realise this. However, this will become immediately apparent as soon as you leave the airport (any of them) and realise it takes at least an hour to get to Central London.

So basically, you’re going to be spending some money on transportation unless you are keen to walk about 20 miles each day.

Getting from the airport to Central London

The first thing you need to consider when it comes to transportation costs is getting to Central London from the airport. Greater London is served by a whopping six different airports: Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, London City, and London Southend — only two of which (Heathrow and City) are actually technically IN London.

It is most likely that you will begin your trip at Heathrow or Gatwick Airport, which is where the majority of long-haul flights arrive. However, if you’re coming to London from elsewhere in Europe and are flying a budget airline such as Ryanair, Easyjet, or Wizzair, you will probably fly into Stansted or Luton.

We travelled frequently and our trips were mostly limited to these airports when we lived in London. Though we have flown in and out of Southend a couple of times, we have yet to have the opportunity to travel through London City and I’m not even sure which airlines operate out of it.

There are trains from all airports that serve most major London stations and it is almost always less expensive to book these trains in advance. Make sure to do your research before you arrive to find out the best route to your accommodation and book try to book your train at least one week ahead of time in order to get a good deal. Expect the journey to cost around £15-20 one way. It is also cheaper to book a return ticket.

If you are flying into Heathrow, however, there is another option for transport into the city that, for some reason, is rarely marketed toward tourists. You might have only read that you have to take the Heathrow Express from the airport, which goes from the airport to Paddington Station in about twenty minutes. This is fast, yes, but it’s also quite expensive — even if you book in advance.

It is also extremely likely that you’re going to need to transfer to the bus or underground in order to reach your accommodation unless you’re staying in Paddington itself — and you really shouldn’t be if you’re trying to save money.

The best option to get from Heathrow to Central London is to take the Piccadilly Line (which is dark blue on the tube map) of the underground. It might take more time, however, it will save you a considerable amount of money (it will cost roughly £4 depending on the time/day you’re travelling).

There are signs for the tube around every Heathrow terminal and you can’t miss it. Take this time to purchase an Oyster Card (you will have to pay a £5 deposit, which you can get back upon returning the card when you leave) and load some money on it as well. You also can use a contactless credit or debit card in the same way. This is your ticket to affordable transport all around London.

St Pancras station in London

Cost of transport in London

Once you’ve figured out how to get from the airport into Central London, you’re going to need to factor in the cost of actually getting around London. As I mentioned earlier, London is a massive city and it is entirely unlikely that you can see everything you want on foot.

Luckily, the British capital has an excellent public transport system that will get you everywhere you need to go. However, it just so happens to be one of the most expensive in the world.

Your best bet to combat high travel costs is to invest in an Oyster card, which you can get at any tube station and top off with however much money you might need. The benefit of using an Oyster card vs purchasing single-journey tickets or travel cards is that the Oyster has daily travel caps .

You can also use a contactless credit or debit card in the same way, and save your £5 for the Oyster card. Contactless cards are still subject to the same caps as Oyster cards.

This means if you are travelling within zones 1-2 in the transport system (and it is highly unlikely that you will travel beyond that) the maximum amount of money you will be charged per day is £8.10. When one single tube journey costs around £2.80, this can be a significant amount of savings if you are going to take more than three trips in a day.

Another way to save money on transit is to take the bus wherever possible. Any journey on the iconic red double-decker buses in London costs £1.75 no matter where in the city you are going. Another benefit is that if you need to change buses on your journey, you won’t be charged the £1.75 fee again if you switch within an hour.

A great way to keep on top of all of the best routes to your destination and to weigh the expenses of them is to use an app called CityMapper. This is what most Londoners use to get places and it can be invaluable to tourists as well.

Another tip to save money while travelling in London is to avoid taking black cabs whenever possible. These taxis, though iconic to London, are notoriously expensive and I know very few locals who use them frequently.

If you need to get somewhere and public transport isn’t running (say it’s after midnight or there’s a tube strike), then use Uber or Bolt. These ride-sharing apps are considerably less expensive than the traditional cabs. Keep in mind that if there are public transit issues, fares may be inflated.

All in, you really shouldn’t have to spend more than £10/day on transport when you’re visiting London, factoring in the cost of getting to and from the airport.

London buses

Food Prices

As one of the most international cities in the world, London has a thriving food scene and it is possible to get cuisine from nearly every single country in this one city. It is time to shed any preconceived notions about British food when visiting London because the restaurant and street food scene here is absolutely fantastic. It can, however, greatly impact your overall London trip cost.

While London is home to some of the greatest restaurants in the world, these can come with a steep price tag. It is, however, entirely possible to enjoy some of the best cuisine that London has to offer while still maintaining a tight travel budget.

The biggest piece of advice I can give you is to limit your eating out (in a restaurant, at least) to once per day. Stop by a supermarket and pick up some things for breakfast to make at your accommodation, or stay somewhere that offers breakfast in the room rate.

For lunch, the best way to save money is to take advantage of “meal deals” from local supermarkets. These include pre-made sandwiches, a packet of crisps or popcorn, and a drink all for around £5 depending on where you’re shopping.

All major supermarkets offer these, but it is worth noting that Waitrose tends to be more expensive (they’re the posh supermarket). We would recommend looking at Sainsbury’s, Co-Op, or Tesco.

Street food can also be affordable and London is blessed with a seemingly endless amount of street food markets. The most popular for tourists would likely be Borough Market near London Bridge, which is open every day but Sunday, and has so many food stalls that it can be incredibly hard to choose what to eat.

Other popular markets include Brick Lane (open weekends), Broadway Market (open Saturdays), KERB Camden (open daily), and Southbank Centre food market near the London Eye (open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday).

Camden Lock

A street food meal can be more expensive than a meal deal from a supermarket, but you do get more option and a higher quality of food. Expect to pay around £5-10 for a meal from a food market.

If you want to eat out in London — and you should, there are a number of great restaurants in the city — follow the advice I say for literally every single city in the world: don’t eat anywhere near a main tourist attraction.

Restaurants like these are catered directly toward tourists and can cost more than 20% more than a restaurant catered toward Londoners and savvy visitors such as yourself. Eating away from tourist sites can really cut down on your overall cost of a trip to London.

If you do go eat out, expect a main dish at a mid-range restaurant to cost somewhere around £12-15 and a starter to cost around £8-10. Add about 10-20% to that if you’re eating at a higher-end place.

All in all, you really don’t need to break the bank if you want to experience the food culture of London. You can expect to spend around £15-20 per day if cooking the majority of your own meals and closer to £30-40 if having one or two mid-range meals out per day.

Activity Prices

Now that we’ve covered such basic needs as food, shelter, and transportation, it’s time to cover the cost of actually doing things in London.

There is a ton to do in this amazing city and, luckily for travellers, a vast majority of it doesn’t have to cost a lot. Sure, tourist attractions in London like Madame Tussauds , the London Eye , and the Tower of London can charge quite a bit to enter, some of the most famous and best museums in the world are completely free.

These include the British Museum, the Natural History Museum, the Victoria & Albert Museum, and the Science Museum among numerous others. If planning on visiting a number of the paid attractions, the London Go City Pass can save money on entry fees.

You could easily spend a number of days hopping from museum to museum in London and only spend money on your transport and food for the day.

Tower Bridge in London

Another great and affordable sightseeing option in London is to take a free walking tour. There are myriad tour operators throughout the city that offer different free tours through various boroughs and neighbourhoods. While the tour themselves are free, you do need to tip the guide — usually around £10-15 depending on the quality and length of the tour.

There are also a number of paid walking tours you can take — such as an East End street art tour — that won’t break the bank either, usually these clock in at around £20 depending on the operator. Often, it can be cheaper for you to book the tour online in advance, so make sure to do your research beforehand.

If you’re keen to go to the theatre while in London, note that West End tickets can be very expensive. However, there are definitely ways to get around the steep price. If you don’t mind sitting in the nosebleed section, it can actually be quite affordable — the cheapest tickets often cost around £30.

Another fantastic way to save on West End theatre is to enter a ticket lottery. Many of the top shows offer these where you can enter in to win some of the best seats in the house for around £20. How shows run lotteries differ, however, it can be worth doing a quick Google search of “west end show” + “lottery” to find out the process for whatever you might want to see.

Another great way to save on theatre is to look away from the West End. There are fantastic productions all throughout London and it can be a lot cheaper than staying in the main theatre district. Some theatres, such as the Hampstead Theatre in North London, offer £10 tickets to those under 30 and they have incredible production quality and some big-name actors as well.

All in all, though, if you’re planning on keeping your average London trip cost low, you don’t really need to budget more than £10-15 per day on activities.

Natural History Museum in London

Entertainment Prices

Now we come to the last factor you need to consider in your overall London holiday cost: entertainment. London has a famous nightlife and pub culture and no visit to the Big Smoke is complete without sampling it.

Well, unfortunately for budget travellers, booze prices in London can be exceptionally high. While that should stop you from heading to a cosy pub and grabbing a beer, it is worth knowing that a pint will set you back around £5-6 in Central London, often more depending on what kind of beer it is.

London is also famous for its cocktail bars, however, a cocktail in the city will set you back considerably more than a pint.

If you head to one of the hip, subterranean, speakeasy-style cocktail bars that have become so popular in London over the past few years, expect to pay around £12-15 per drink. Oftentimes, it is more depending on the esteem of the bar and where it is located.

If you want to have a great London drinking experience without breaking the bank, consider purchasing your booze from the supermarket or liquor store. A bottle of beer will cost around £1.50-2 and a decent bottle of wine will cost around £10-15.

If the weather is fine, find a place in a park or a bench along Regent’s Canal or River Thames and enjoy your drink while watching London go by.

Not only do locals do this kind of thing frequently, but your bank balance will also surely thank you as well. One of the best ways to cut down on your overall trip cost is to limit how much and where you drink alcohol.

All in, if you want to enjoy a few drinks daily while visiting London, then plan to budget about £10-20 per person per day for this.

Lovely Regents' Canal

Average London Travel Cost

The above factors considered, here is how much you should expect to spend per person per day if you’re spending a week in London. This is assuming you are travelling as a couple so are splitting some costs and doesn’t include any pre-trip expenses (like investing in a good coat for London !) If you are travelling solo, expect some things (namely accommodation) to cost a bit more.

Accommodation:  £35-150/night

Transport:  £10-20/day

Food:  £15-40/day

Activities: £5-15/day

Entertainment:  £10-20/day

Overall, you can plan to spend an average of around £75-245 per day while visiting London. The lower costs will apply if you’re staying outside of the centre in budget accommodation and cooking most of your own meals. While the higher end will apply for travellers who wish to stay in nicer accommodation and eat out around once per day.

Many people think that London is an expensive place to visit and fail to do the proper research on how to adequately budget. If you are smart about where you spend your money and how you travel, your total travel costs can be minimal.

Are you planning to visit London? Have questions about the prices? Let us know in the comments!

average london trip cost

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Thank you for all the wonderful information. I will be using your suggestions on my trip to London in June. Darlene

This has been one of the, if not the most helpful travel blogs I have read for London. Thank you so much!

Thanks, Lilly! I’m so happy you’ve found this helpful 🙂

Incredible information. Thanks.

Love the information and the ideas thank you

Planning on living in London for a while and this helped a lot with the preparation. It’s made me a lot more excited to live in a different city. Thank you for sharing your wisdom.

So happy that I could help! Hope you have a great time living in London 🙂

Going to travel to London this August. Thank you Maggie. Your page answered ALL my questions and now I have a better attitude and peace about this trip.

Happy I could be of help, Kenneth! Hope you have a great trip 🙂

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We3Travel

How Much Does a Trip to London Cost? (2024 London Trip Budget)

London’s reputation as one of the most expensive cities in the world is well-earned, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be enjoyed by families and budget travelers all the way to luxury aficionados. If you are wondering, “how much does a trip to London cost?”, we’ve got your answers.

After planning our own 7 days in London , and helping numerous other families plan a trip to London, I’ve done a ton of research into hotel options, activities, and ways to cut costs on your London trip budget (check this post for ideas of free things to do in London with kids .)

If you are still debating where to go, also check out our budget guides for Italy , Paris , Greece , Portugal, Ireland , Japan , and Iceland .

Tower Bridge London

London Budget assumptions

To help you create your London trip budget, this post outlines pricing for two adults and two children between the ages of 6-11, traveling in the summer, and spending a week in London (six nights, seven days). If you are traveling in the off-season or not with a large family, your costs will undoubtedly be lower. When planning your own London trip budget, make adjustments as needed to suit your specific travel companions and travel style.

I’m going to assume that this family is traveling in the summer months, since that is when most families travel, although London would also be a great spring break destination and we also enjoyed visiting London for Christmas . This budget also isn’t for budget travelers, but rather for small families that are comfortable sharing a family-size room in three to four-star accommodations.

London Trip Cost

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. All opinions are my own.

Remember to keep in mind the exchange rate when looking at rates listed in British pounds. I use xe.com to convert currency. To figure out how much is a trip to London, I included the following elements:

  • Airfare from a major U.S. airport hub
  • Hotel/Accommodations (6 nights in family-friendly, mid-range accommodations)
  • Tours/Entrance Fees (for a mix of self-guided and private family tours and activities)
  • Transportation within London and to/from the airport
  • Food (including one special high tea)

Souvenirs/Miscellaneous

  • Travel insurance

While it used to be common to find airfare between the U.S. and London for $500 per person, those prices have gone up recently, especially for summer travel. If you book at least six months in advance or travel during shoulder seasons, you can find airfares under $750 if you are willing to connect (typically through Iceland or Dublin using Iceland Air or Aer Lingus). However, direct flights in the summer will cost closer to $900 per person.

This is certainly the time to redeem frequent flier points or credit card points to cover flights. If you have flexibility on your vacation time, I recommend subscribing to an airfare deal site such as Going or Dollar Flight Club to look for sales and sign up for deal alerts.

If you want to find the best way to accumulate points and miles through credit card spending and sign up bonuses, I’d suggest downloading the  Travel Freely app  to track your credit cards and learn how to earn points.

Heathrow Airport is a major global hub for most international airlines, but you may find deals on budget airlines such as Play or Norse Airlines to Stansted or Gatwick airports.

Total airfare cost: $2700 (4 people x $900 per person)

Accommodations

Athenaeum hotel

The two biggest factors in determining hotel room costs will be space and location. If you’d like two adjoining rooms or a family suite in the immediate central part of the city at a four or five-star hotel (we loved the Atheneum Hotel & Residences ), plan to spend $900 – 1,500 per night. If you have the budget, you’ll be within walking distance to many attractions with luxury hotel services like a concierge, on-site fine dining, etc.

However, if you’re willing to stay in one of London’s charming neighborhoods, just a short tube ride away from the immediate center of the city, then not only will you save money, but you can often find more spacious accommodations like apartment-style hotels or wonderful vrbo rentals . Just keep in mind that some of these will require a minimum of a 5-7 night stay.

The average cost per night for four-star accommodation or apartment rentals in areas like South Kensington (we also loved the Royal Garden Hotel ), Notting Hill, and Little Venice is approximately $300-600 per night.

Find accommodations options in London:

Just be careful when booking stand-alone rentals… ask for the exact address or closest major cross street so you can map it out. If you’re outside the T1 London Tube area, you’ll pay more for transportation and waste precious time each day traveling into the city. See my tips for booking Airbnb or other vacation rentals .

Total accommodation cost: $3,600 (based on $600 per night for 6 nights)

Tours/Entrance Fees

British Museum private tour

Investing in a Blue-Badge guide for half-day tours or a walking tour is a great splurge and a perfect way to explore some of London’s most popular attractions. The cost of a private family tour is usually around $300-400 for a half-day experience.

These guides can make the history of London come alive for you and your children. My two favorite attractions to invest in a guide are the British Museum and the Tower of London . We also enjoyed having a private tour of Westminster City .

If a private guide is too much of a stretch, spend the extra few pounds to supply each member of the family with an audio guide at major attractions. Many have dedicated children’s versions.

The other sightseeing expense that adds up quickly when visiting London is entrance fees. Expect to spend $15-60 per person to enter places like the Tower of London, Kensington Palace, Buckingham Palace, London Eye , and the Warner Brothers Harry Potter Studio .

Keep your eye out for family passes when booking tickets in advance. Most attractions offer a discount for families that will include admission for two adults and two to three kids for one discounted amount.

If you plan on visiting quite a few attractions in just a couple of days, the London Go City Explorer or the London Pass can also be a money saver!

Luckily, most major museums are free (the British Museum, Natural History Museum, Science Museum, etc.), as are all the large parks (Hyde Park, St. James, Regent’s Park, and the Olympic Park). So pair pricier activities with free options throughout the week.

Total tour/sightseeing cost: $1,200 (based on two private tours of $300, plus $100 per day for six days in additional entrance fees)

Transportation

London tube Notting hill

Airport Transfers

The Heathrow Express is a great value and only costs about $10-15 per person when purchasing an advance ticket for a specific day of travel (flexible tickets are more.) The ride takes 20 minutes and takes you directly into Paddington Station, from which you can usually hail a reasonably priced taxi to take you to your accommodation. It is a bit of a long walk within Heathrow from one terminal to the other but it is worth it for the cost and time savings. Plus, children aged 15 years and under travel free in Express Class when accompanied by a paying adult.

Otherwise, arrange a driver in advance for about $150-200 through your hotel concierge. Taxis to and from the airport can sometimes be much pricier as traffic is so unpredictable in that part of the city.

London Tube

Taking the tube is not just a convenient and relatively inexpensive way to get around London, it’s frankly an integral part of the London experience. Invest in a Visitor Oyster card for each adult and any child over age 10, as it will reduce the per-ride cost compared to individual tickets.

If you have seven days in London , a day trip or two out of the city is fun. Train tickets to places like Oxford, Windsor, or Bath usually price out around $40-60 per person roundtrip. Be sure to book in advance for the best rates. If you decide to hire a driver, expect costs to be $500-1,000 for a full day of service.

Total transportation costs: $400 (based on using public transportation)

Fish and chips at the Globe in London

Food expenses can be difficult to budget for any destination, both because it can vary so drastically based on personal preferences and because it’s hard to know what your family will want to eat each day. Personally, I like a mix of quick, convenient food and sit-down, upscale dining, and London offers options at both ends of this spectrum.

This is typically included in a hotel stay. Otherwise, plan to hit a grocery store (small shops are prevalent throughout the city, look for chains like Waitrose and Sainsbury) and stock up on some basic supplies to keep in your room and apartment. Be sure to try a full English breakfast at least one morning of your trip… you likely won’t need lunch it’s so robust!

You can score some great savings at lunch if you duck into a grocery store and take advantage of their package deals. Most grocery stores offer a sandwich, drink, and a bag of crisps (potato chips) for around $4-7. Pick up some fruit or prepared veggies to share, and you can feed the whole family for around $40. Plus there are quick service Pret a Manger shops on nearly every corner.

If you’ve got access to kitchen facilities, then once again you’ll find great savings at the grocery stores. Most offer high-quality, upscale pre-made food that only requires you to heat and serve (think roasted chicken dishes, veggies, potatoes, and dessert).

This is often less than $30 for a healthy, satisfying meal that requires little effort. Takeaways are also fairly inexpensive, and it’s a fun way of trying the more ethnically diverse food like Indian and Thai, or the famous fish n’ chips! that London is known for.

When to Splurge

London has some outstanding restaurants, and I love to have a nice sit-down meal at least a few times during a week-long trip, balanced out with casual, cheaper fare. And don’t forget to indulge in afternoon tea!

While it typically prices out between $40-60 per person, many hotels will offer discounts or complimentary tea to their guests. Also, know that you’ll be served lots of food during the experience, so I encourage people to make their tea bookings for later in the day, and it will double as dinner.

Total food cost: $1,330 (based on free hotel breakfast, $40 for lunch x seven days, and $150 per day for dinner x seven days)

Harrods bears

I have a strict rule with my kids that the trip itself is the treat, not all the kitschy souvenirs found in the gift shop of every major attraction. But London is a great place to shop for specialty items.

One of my favorite places to go for souvenirs or gifts is Fortnum & Mason, where you can buy some of England’s legendary tea and biscuits, perfectly packaged to bring home. And a stop at Hamley’s toy store is also a fabulous experience for the whole family to enjoy. We also enjoy browsing the many floors and departments at Harrods.

Total souvenir cost: $200 (based on each family member spending $50 while on the trip)

Travel Insurance

I would recommend protecting your trip with travel insurance . Pricing varies depending on your level of coverage, age, trip costs, and more. However, I would use $300-500 as a rough estimate.

Total Cost for a 7-day Family trip to London: $9,830

Bottom line is that the trip to London cost for a family of four would cost approximately $9,830 , or about $350 per person, per day . Your family could certainly spend less if you can utilize airline miles, score a great accommodation deal, cook your own meals, or focus your time on the free activities and landmarks in London instead of the pricier places to go.

That said, London is an expensive city, so it can be a challenge for families with an extremely tight budget. If you want an English countryside experience, I found very affordable inns and food in Northern England this past summer during my Hadrian’s Wall walking trip.

How much does it cost to go to London?

Visiting london read more:.

  • 7 Day London itinerary
  • 5 Festive things to do in London at Christmas
  • Ultimate fan guide to Harry Potter attractions in London

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How much does a trip to London cost

Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.

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Publish Date: November 18, 2023

1 thought on “How Much Does a Trip to London Cost? (2024 London Trip Budget)”

Love your transparency with the costs it is so helpful for those planning.

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Cost of a Trip to London, GB & the Cheapest Time to Visit London

The average price of a 7-day trip to London is $2,002 for a solo traveler, $3,596 for a couple, and $6,741 for a family of 4 . London hotels range from $77 to $351 per night with an average of $148, while most vacation rentals will cost $280 to $590 per night for the entire home. Average worldwide flight costs to London City Airport ( LCY ) are between $752 and $1,157 per person for economy flights and $2,360 to $3,631 for first class. Depending on activities, we recommend budgeting $68 to $138 per person per day for transportation and enjoying local restaurants.

See below for average , budget , and luxury trip costs. You can also look up flight costs from your airport for more tailored flight pricing.

The Cheapest Times to Visit London, GB

On average, these will be the cheapest dates to fly to LCY and stay in a London hotel:

  • January 8th to March 18th
  • April 16th to May 27th (except the week of May 7th)
  • September 24th to December 9th

The absolute cheapest time to take a vacation in London is usually late January and early February .

Average London Trip Costs

Average solo traveler.

The average cost for one person to visit London for a week is $1,484-$3,209 ($212-$458 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $68 to $138 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $438 to $1,007 for economy

Lodging : $95 to $96 per night for one 2 or 3-star hotel room

or $168 to $206 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Average Couple’s Trip

The average cost for a couple to visit London for a week is $3,026-$5,482 ($432-$783 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $136 to $276 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $876 to $2,014 for economy

Average Family Vacation

The average cost for 4 people to visit London for a week is $4,796-$9,746 ($685-$1,392 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $272 to $552 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,752 to $4,028 for economy

Lodging : $190 to $192 per night for two 2 or 3-star hotel rooms

or $235 to $309 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Traveling Cheap to London

How cheap can you make a vacation to London? The cheapest trip to London is about $114 per person per day for travelers willing to take standby flights, deal with inconvenience, and otherwise limit travel expenses. About 1% of rentals are available in the $0 to $100 range for an entire place, and vacation rentals can be booked for as low as $21 per night. These inexpensive rentals must be booked as early as possible and may not be in the most desirable areas. 1-star hotels are more likely to be available, with rooms starting at around $67.

Even cheaper trips are possible depending on where you live and whether you can drive. Check the cheapest times to fly for more saving ideas.

Budget Solo Traveler

The lowest cost for one person to visit London for a week is $795-$1,931 ($114-$276 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $33 to $66 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Lodging : $67 to $77 per night for one 1-star hotel room

or $21 to $51 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Budget Couple’s Trip

The lowest cost for a couple to visit London for a week is $1,464-$3,400 ($209-$486 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $66 to $132 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Budget Family Vacation

The lowest cost for 4 people to visit London for a week is $2,868-$6,800 ($410-$971 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $132 to $264 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Lodging : $134 to $154 per night for two 1-star hotel rooms

or $32 to $71 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Overall it is very difficult to travel to London cheaply.

The Cost of a Luxury London Trip

There is no true ceiling on the cost of a luxury trip, so our estimates are based on what most people do in London.

Luxury Solo Traveler

The high-end price for one person to visit London for a week is $3,189-$12,141 ($456-$1,734 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $150 to $304 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,077 to $2,225 for first class

Lodging : $177 to $351 per night for one 4 or 5-star hotel room

or $590 to $1,298 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Luxury Couple’s Trip

The high-end price for a couple to visit London for a week is $5,316-$16,494 ($759-$2,356 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $300 to $608 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $2,154 to $4,450 for first class

Luxury Family Vacation

The high-end price for 4 people to visit London for a week is $10,632-$29,874 ($1,519-$4,268 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $600 to $1,216 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $4,308 to $8,900 for first class

Lodging : $354 to $702 per night for two 4 or 5-star hotel rooms

or $826 to $2,077 per night for a preferred vacation rental

London Hotel Prices

The cost of staying in London is much higher than the average city. On average hotels are less expensive than vacation rentals. Luxury vacation rentals are more expensive in London due to very high property costs. The graphs below show how much cost can vary depending on the type of experience you’re looking for.

London Lodging Cost by Star Status

The average price for the class of hotel is on the (y) axis. The hotel class (out of 5 stars) is on the (x) axis.

Prices are based on London hotel averages and may not reflect current prices. In some cases, we extrapolate prices to estimate costs, and hotels with your desired star rating may not be available.

Vacation Rental Prices

The percent of vacation rentals in the price range is on the left (y) axis. Price range is on the bottom (x) axis.

There are a healthy amount of vacation rentals serving all budgets in London.

Flight Costs to London

Averaging flights around the world, prices go from a high of $1,157 average in early to mid June to a low of $752 in late January and early February. Median flight price is $879. These prices are based on millions of flights. For London our data includes 251 originating airports, and 85 airlines. The area has average variance in price compared with other locations. Flying to London from an airport like Stewart International ( SWF ) in Newburgh/Poughkeepsie, NY (the United States) for an average $10,336 trip fare will obviously cost a lot more than from an airport like Edinburgh ( EDI ) in Edinburgh (the United Kingdom) at an average of just $124.

Average Flight Cost by Season

Average flight cost by day of week.

The cheapest day to fly in is typically Tuesday, and the cheapest day to fly back is usually Monday. Click here to see data for the cost of flights from your airport. In London, the difference between the cheapest and the most expensive week is about $406, so you can easily save about 54% simply by using our free flight guides and booking in advance.

Daily Expenses Budget

Daily vacation expenses vary more based on what you’re interested in doing. A fine dining restaurant with drinks around London can easily cost $490 per person or more, while a standard nice meal might be about $33 per person. Private tours can cost $988 per day, but self-guided tours to see the outdoor sights can be free. Costs vary wildly, so recommendations are made based on the cost of living and averages we see for this type of vacation.

Other London Guides

Travel costs nearby.

  • Tower Hamlets, the United Kingdom
  • London City Centre, the United Kingdom
  • St James, the United Kingdom
  • Covent Garden, the United Kingdom
  • Soho, the United Kingdom
  • West End, the United Kingdom
  • Fitzrovia, the United Kingdom
  • Holborn, the United Kingdom
  • Bloomsbury, the United Kingdom
  • Mayfair, the United Kingdom

Travel Costs in Popular Places

  • Mt. Hood National Forest, the United States
  • Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
  • Cape Town, South Africa

Never Ending Footsteps

The Cost of Travel in London: My 2024 Budget Breakdown

average london trip cost

How has it taken me so long to get around to writing a budget breakdown for London?

London is everything to me.

I was born in this incredible city and spent the first 23 years of my life exploring everything it has to offer. Even now, over a decade after leaving to travel the world, I consider London home and return every single year to spend my summers strolling its streets. I spent several weeks there last summer, and have already booked my tickets for this year’s trip!

Whether you’re a local or a tourist, it’s impossible to run out of things to do and see in this magnificent place. A list of things to do would stretch into the hundreds, if not the thousands; my top restaurant recommendations would require months to visit them all. You could spend a week in London doing nothing but visiting world-class museums and leave with just as many left on your to-do list. And that’s before I even dive into the countless day trips that are up for grabs around the U.K.

And all of this wonder? Yeah, it won’t be a surprise to hear that it comes at a steep price.

London is expensive, but there are plenty of ways to keep your budget to a minimum — when I returned to the city after backpacking in Southeast Asia, I was still able to keep my costs low by staying in hostels and eating the delicious street food. But if you’re all about that luxury life? London is unlike anywhere else in the world, with so many world-class hotels and restaurants to dip into.

Today, I’m going to be sharing exactly how much you can expect to spend on a trip to London. Prices are in USD and GBP.

How to Save Money on the Cost of Accommodation in London

As always with travel, it’s possible to cut your accommodation costs down to zero if you have the time and patience to seek out an offer. And when you see the price of some of the accommodation in London, you might just be able to find said time!

Couchsurfing  exists in the UK– and, of course, London — and lets you stay with a local for free, sleeping on their sofa and enjoying a local’s insight into life in their country. It’s not the most comfortable of living situations, but if your budget is tight and you don’t mind roughing it, it’s worth sending out a few requests to hosts to see if anything comes of it. You can search for potential hosts on the Couchsurfing site .

Housesitting  is another option. This is where you take care of somebody’s house for free while they’re away, and usually look after their pets, too. It’s best for long-term travellers or retirees: you can’t pick and choose dates and destinations, so you need to have a lot of flexibility as to where you go and when you go there.

If you do have that freedom, though, it’s a wonderful way to cut down your travel expenses, soak up some home comforts, and live like a local for a while.  Trusted Housesitters  is the best site for getting started with housesitting — they usually have hundreds of housesits available for London at any one time, so it’s well-worth having a look to see if any coincide with your travel dates.

I’m suspecting, though, that for most of you, you’re not interested in the free accommodation: you just want somewhere clean, safe, and affordable to rest your head each night. If that’s the case, there are several options available.

The Cost of Accommodation in London

The best hostel in London: YHA London Oxford Street (dorms $45/£35 a night, private rooms $141/£110 )

Want to visit London on a budget and still stay in the heart of the action? Well, you can’t get much more central than right beside the city’s premier shopping street, and YHA London Oxford Street lets you stay there for as little as $45/£35 a night! That’s assuming you’re happy to stay in a dorm, of course, but even if you aren’t, private rooms are still very reasonably priced. Despite the affordability, you still get a quiet building, clean rooms, individual lights and power sockets beside each dorm bed, and the option of an inexpensive breakfast each morning. You can also buy drinks and light meals onsite, but of course there are about a thousand eating and drinking options nearby as well! Everything is within walking distance or a short tube ride away, so if all you’re really looking for is a cheap, clean place to lay your head in central London, this is definitely the place to do it.

The best budget hotel in London: The Lilac Door ( $167/£130 a night)

The Lilac Door is an adorable, family-run bed and breakfast in Dulwich Hill that’s an affordable yet charming place to stay in London. The rooms are clean and comfortable, but as always with a B&B, it’s the hosts that make or break it. In this case, they definitely make it: not only were they super warm and welcoming, but the breakfasts I had there were exceptional. They had no problem catering for dietary requirements like gluten-free or vegetarianism, but if you’re not limited in what you can eat, you have so many options, from a full English to a huge spread of croissants, yoghurts, and omelettes. There’s plenty to see and do nearby, including the well-known Dulwich Picture Gallery and Crystal Palace Park, while a bus or overland train gets you into the centre of the city in about 40 minutes.

The best mid-range hotel in London: Blackbird ( $277/£216 a night)

It’s no surprise that you’ll need to up your budget a bit if you want to stay closer to the heart of London: with that in mind, Blackbird offers impressive value. Honestly, I was surprised to find out that it’s actually a pub first and accommodation second: it’s a very upscale version of the classic “pub with rooms” that you find all over the UK. The rooms are clean and spacious for the area, with all the amenities you need for a few days in the city. Food (and drinks) at the pub downstairs are definitely a step above traditional pub fare, and with breakfast included, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to sample it! In terms of getting around, you’re in a great location: Kensington Palace and Hyde Park are a lovely half-hour stroll away, and the hotel is basically over the road from Earls Court station, with regular tubes that can whisk you directly to Covent Garden in 20 minutes or Heathrow airport in 40 minutes.

The best high-end hotel in London: Bankside Hotel, Autograph Collection ( $555/£432 a night)

Ever since I stayed in one of Marriot’s amazing Autograph Collection hotels in Seoul last year, I’ve been keeping an eye out for the chance to do it again. The stylish design, exceptional staff, and attention to detail was unlike anything I’d experienced before, and Bankside Hotel brings all of that and more to London’s bustling South Bank. You couldn’t ask for a better location, less than a five minute stroll from the Tate Modern and the Thames, and an easy walk or short cab or tube ride to everything you’ll want to see in central London. As you’d expect, the rooms are super-quiet and the amenities are top-notch, from remote-control blackout blinds to marble bathrooms, and the artwork around the hotel is quirky without being tacky: not an easy balance. In short, if you’re happy to spend a bit extra to make your stay in London especially memorable and comfortable, Bankside is the place to do it!

average london trip cost

The Cost of Transportation in London 

Your first travel experience from London is going to depend a hell of a lot on which airport you choose to land at. Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton, Stansted, or even London City: all are potential options, but only London City is anywhere close to the centre of the action. It’s a small airport that mostly services flights to nearby European countries, so you’ll likely be flying into somewhere else, which means a solid hour of public transport to get into central London.

Yeah, it’s a pain in the ass.

Other than London City, Heathrow is the only London airport that’s serviced by the Underground, which means it costs as little as $7.20/£5.60 to get into the central city. It takes about an hour, though: if you want a faster journey, the Heathrow Express zips between the airport and Paddington station in 15 minutes, and costs $26/£20 if you book in advance .

All the other airports are further out and require a bus and/or overland train journey into central London. Gatwick has an express train service that takes about half an hour and costs $30/£22.90 . If you’re traveling at an off-peak time and don’t mind if your journey takes a bit longer, just take a non-express service from Gatwick instead; it’s under half the price.

Stansted also has an express service, which takes about an hour and costs $30/£23 . Cheap advance fares are sometimes available that cost as little as $13/£9.90 , but there are only a limited number available and they sell out quickly. Check the website just in case, though! Luton doesn’t have a direct train service, so you’re looking at a fairly painful 90 minute bus journey there, for $17/£13 .

average london trip cost

Once you’re in London, though, moving between attractions is a breeze. You’ll often be able to walk from one to the next, but if not, there’s a diverse range of public transport options available. Buses, underground and overground trains, light rail, trams, and even boats criss-cross the city, and most of them are integrated into a single payment system.

Prices vary depending on the type of transport and how far you’re going, but expect to pay $2.25/£1.75 for a bus ride (with free transfers for an hour) and $3.50/£2.70 for a single tube ride in zone one. Daily fare caps apply, so you won’t pay more than $11/£8.50 per day for journeys in zone one and two.

Note that those prices and caps apply only if you’re using a contactless card: either a credit or debit card, Apple or Google Pay on your phone, or an Oyster card that you can buy and top up at ticket machines and counters at major stations. Cash tickets can be noticeably more expensive.

The London Overground is a more recent addition, using existing railway lines to cover a wide area that generally wasn’t well served by underground routes. There’s also the Docklands Light Railway, or DLR, an innovative driverless option that starts at Bank station and heads out through the old London dock area on a few different routes towards Greenwich, London City Airport, and elsewhere.

average london trip cost

When you tire of the railway and bus system, hop on a boat instead. The Uber Boat by Thames Clippers is a unique way to skip the (often) chaotic London transportation scene and enjoy the beauty of the Thames River. It’s rarely the fastest way to get around, but it’s definitely the most scenic, and a lot cheaper than paying for a Thames cruise. The river is split into three fare zones: Oyster/contactless cards are accepted and kids under five ride free. An adult single zone fare starts at $8/£6.20 .

As a rule, you’ll likely end up taking the tube most of the time, a bus for shorter trips or where the tube doesn’t run to, and then the occasional overground train, tram, or boat. Unless you’re heading to Greenwich or flying in or out of London Airport, you probably won’t take the DLR much or at all.

If you’d prefer to power your own explorations, there are many dockless bike share systems in London as well. The biggest is Santander , which has over 12,000 bikes around inner London and a handy $4/£3 day pass option that includes unlimited rides of up to half an hour each.

average london trip cost

The Cost of Food in London

Yeah, I’ll point directly at the elephant in the room right now: English food has a terrible reputation.

Jellied eels, spotted dick, and toad in the hole are often called out by visitors to my homeland, with many still believing the British cuisine of the pre-millennium is still in favour. That couldn’t be any less true today!

London is one of the greatest cities in the world for eating these days, and you’re going to have so many delicious meals while you’re in town.

Let’s start with the breakfasts. Even if you’ve never come across any other British food before, you’ve probably heard of the full English: a breakfast smorgasbord of bacon, eggs, potatoes, sausages, mushrooms, baked beans, toast, and grilled tomatoes is a well-known way of setting yourself up for the day. It’s probably also a good way of setting yourself up for a heart attack if you have it all the time, but fortunately continental options of cereal, yoghurt, and fruit are commonplace, along with avocado toast and other lighter fare.

If breakfast isn’t included in your room rate, expect to pay around $15.50-19.50/£12-15 for a full English at a good cafe, and $8-11.50/£6-9 for a continental option. You might get tea or coffee with that, but if not, it’ll be around $2/£1.50 for a cup of milky tea, $2.50/£2 for a basic brewed coffee, and $4/£3 for a good latte or flat white. Avocado toast normally runs about $13-15.50/£10-12 .

Lunch is usually a relatively light meal, and you’ve got endless options. It’s pretty much impossible to walk more than a block in central London without seeing somewhere selling sandwiches, from the infamous supermarket “meal deals” of a sandwich or wrap plus a drink and crisps/chips, through chain sandwich stores like Pret a Manger with a wider range and somewhat higher quality, to specialist delicatessens. Fillings like egg mayo or cheese and pickle are common, but there’s a huge variety. Expect to pay around $5.25/£4 for a supermarket meal deal, and $4.50-7.75/£3.50-6 for a wrap or sandwich elsewhere.

If you’re after something heartier (and still have room left after that full English breakfast), many pubs and restaurants have weekday lunchtime specials. Keep an eye out for signboards as you walk around: these specials typically change regularly, but can offer a significant saving over having something similar for dinner. I recently paid $24/£18.50 for ham, eggs, and chips plus a pint of cider at a pub in inner London, which is about what it would have cost without the drink later in the day.

Afternoon Tea at the Sanderson Hotel

One of my favourite London activities is afternoon tea and I’ve been fortunate to have sampled over a dozen of the city’s offerings in my lifetime! It’s a fantastic tea-based tradition in this country; a multi-hour experience, during which you’ll sample sandwiches, scones, cakes, pastries, cocktails, and tea. Perfect for a special occasion! There are so many different options available to suit a range of budgets. My personal favourite options are:

  • For a luxury afternoon tea: The Lanesborough afternoon tea ( £80 /$100). A high-end option in one of London’s fanciest hotels. The staff were amazing and their cakes are some of the best I’ve had.
  • For a wow-factor afternoon tea: Peter Pan-themed afternoon tea at the Shard ( £70 /$88). You’ll have the best views in London at this one. I loved sitting beside the window and gazing out across the city.
  • For a fun, themed afternoon tea: Mad Hatter’s afternoon tea at the Sanderson ( £65 /$82). This is a London classic, with Alice in Wonderland-themed treats. I’ve been to this one three times as it makes for a great place for first-time visitors to the city!
  • For a budget afternoon tea: Tapas-themed afternoon tea at Map Maison ( £28 /$35). I really enjoyed this afternoon tea in East London and thought it offered amazing value for money. It’s Spanish-themed, so expect lots of delicious jamon .

If you’re near a pub at lunchtime on a Sunday, be sure to stop in for a Sunday roast. Most pubs that serve food offer it, and it’s a real British institution. There’s usually a choice of two or three meat-based options and a vegetarian/vegan version, along with roast potatoes, vegetables, gravy, and Yorkshire pudding that you absolutely have to try at least once. Expect to pay $18-23.50/£14-18 for it.

You’ll have even more choice about what to eat and drink for dinner than at lunchtime, but to give just a few examples:

  • Fish and chips: $10-18.75/£8-15
  • Steak and chips: $18.75-37.50+/£15-30+
  • Indian curry: $15-25/£12-20
  • Pizza: $12.50-22.50/£10-18
  • Glass of house wine at a pub: $6.25-10/£5-8
  • Cocktails at a fancy bar: $15-22.50+/£12-18+

Those prices really can vary a lot, though, based on which part of the city you’re eating in and how fancy the establishment is. London caters for all budgets!

After you’ve eaten your way through the city it’s ok to step outside the traditional English cuisine to taste the many flavours from all over the world. With so many people from all over the world choosing to make London their home, it’s hardly surprising that their country’s cuisine also makes an appearance. If you’re craving almost any type of food at all, chances are there’s a restaurant that serves it.

average london trip cost

The Cost of Activities, Tours, and Entrance Fees in London

Where to even begin? There’s so much to do in London that I could write an entire article for each and every activity.

We’ll start things off with the big hitters.

When it comes to paid activities within the city, the London Eye is one of my favourites.

I’ve been for a ride on this giant observation wheel three times now — once in the morning, once at sunset, and once in the evening — and it’s one of my favourite places to take friends who are new to the city. It’s a great first destination in London, in my opinion, as it gives you a sense of the size of the city and where the attractions are in relation to each other. I recommend going at sunset, as at this time, you’ll still be able to make out the monuments but also get to watch the city start to light up. Prices come in at £32 for a standard ride or £51 to skip the line and enjoy a glass of champagne onboard . As somebody who has spent over an hour queueing to board the Eye, I recommend the latter if you can afford the extra cash.

The Tower of London is another iconic location that you have to check out. You can catch a glimpse of the famous Crown Jewels while you’re there, of course, but that really is just the beginning: after all, there’s over a thousand years of history inside those stone walls!

Churches and museums grace nearly every corner, enlightening history fanatics of the centuries old religious presence and modern art spirit that lives there. Most of the to-dos are best seen by simply walking through them. Big Ben, the Tower of London and Tower Bridge are all a sight to be seen and an opportunity to capture that ‘London pic’.

Piccadilly Circus is London’s version of Times Square. It’s busy, brightly lit and full of people. But most importantly, it’s free. Yes, people watching at the circus is totally free of charge and totally worth it. For all you night owls, take notes. Pubs, Broadway productions, restaurants and clubs will keep you happily vibing until the wee hours of the morning if you so choose. 

Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens is a beautiful way to see a different side of London. Picnics, bike paths, swans, blooming gardens and a memorial walk pathed with history are all features of this must-do. There are no costs associated with this, but there are vendors scattered around eager to serve you a coffee or lunch to accompany you on your stroll. 

And day trips?

After you’ve wandered every museum, toured every church, and sat in every pub (which means you’ve spent 50 years in London!), it’s time to explore more of the U.K.

Oxford and Oxford and Cambridge offer a portal back in time with winding cobblestone roads, thousand-year-old churches, and universities that hold both clout and tradition. Stonehenge is a mystery worth digging into during your time here. Just short of a three-hour drive from London, you will find a pile of rocks strategically placed. By whom? No one knows. Day trip tours start at $89/£69 .

average london trip cost

The Cost of Travel Insurance in London

If you’ve read any other posts on Never Ending Footsteps, you’ll know that I’m a great believer in travelling with travel insurance. I’ve seen far too many Go Fund Me campaigns from destitute backpackers that are unexpectedly stranded in a foreign country after a scooter accident/being attacked/breaking a leg with no way of getting home or paying for their healthcare. These costs can quickly land you with a six-figure bill to pay at the end of it.

In short, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.

Travel insurance  will cover you if your flight is cancelled and you need to book a new one, if your luggage gets lost and you need to replace your belongings, if you suddenly get struck down by appendicitis and have to be hospitalised, or discover a family member has died and you need to get home immediately. If you fall seriously ill, your insurance will cover the costs to fly you home to receive medical treatment.

I use  SafetyWing  as my travel insurance provider, and recommend them for trips to London. Firstly, they’re one of the few companies out there who will actually cover you if you contract COVID-19. On top of that, they provide worldwide coverage, don’t require you to have a return ticket, and even allow you to buy coverage after you’ve left home. If you’re on a long-term trip, you can pay monthly instead of up-front, and can cancel at any time. Finally, they’re more affordable than the competition, and have a clear, easy-to-understand pricing structure, which is always appreciated.

With SafetyWing, you’ll pay  $1.50 a day  for travel insurance.

average london trip cost

How Much Does It Cost to Travel in London?

Travelling on a mid-range budget like I was, my costs were as follows:

Accommodation:  $195/ £152 per day between two people ( $97.50/£76 each) Transportation:  $9/ £ 7 per day Food:  $57 /£44.50 per day Activities:  $48 /£37.50 per day

Total amount spent per day: $211.50/£165

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Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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44 comments.

We spent a couple of weeks pre-Christmas in Brixton two years ago (in a very cute Airbnb also!) and I fell in love with it. The first night our host sent us to Brixton Market for dinner, and we ate ALL THE DUMPLINGS at Mama Lan’s and after that we pretty much loved being in that neighbourhood. I wish we could afford to live in Brixton full-time – you and Dave don’t fancy going halfsies on a house for us all to share, do you?!

Um, yes, we absolutely do! :-D

I was wondering why on earth you were having conversations about candy, sidewalks, friends, pants, restrooms, drapes, parking lots , and jelly. Seemed like odd/trivial topics of conversation! ….Until I realized that those are all Americanisms and, being American, I didn’t even realize that there could be a second meaning to that sentence :D

Hahahaha! That made me laugh so hard.

I just ate my oatmeal breakfast, but after reading this article and looking at your photos I think I need to eat something that contains fat. I should have stopped reading after a title, cause I knew this would happen to me.

Hahaha! I should have added a warning to the top of the post as well ;-)

I lived in London for two years and didn’t venture to Brixton once. Now I’m kicking myself! But I’m a north of the river girl and you can definitely eat your way around Archway…

It’s funny how England has a reputation for having terrible food, but one of my favourite things to do there these days is eat!

Aww what a lovely story! I should have timed reading this better though – it’s 5pm and I’m starving now ha ha! A friend of mine used to live in Brixton but I haven’t been for years – sounds like there’s some amazing places for food – I’m gonna have to pay it a visit next time in in the city I think…

Definitely do so, Keri! Brixton Village is so incredible for eating :-)

Brixton is totally going on my travel list! Also, just looking at those photos makes me hungry (and I have just finished dinner…)

Then my work is done! :-) Glad you enjoyed the post!

Lauren!! You absolutely have to go to Ms. cupcake – its a vegan bakery…..everything they make is to die for! X

Ah, amazing! Will add it to my list :-D

I have only been to London once and never made it to Brixton. However I did spend a day at Camden Market and had an amazing time there.

I love Camden Market! Lots of fun and great for people watching :-)

I got so hungry from reading this post and looking at pics :)

It took me longer than usual to write it because I kept having to head out to grab some food!

My God, Lauren – these photos! Arghghghgh, it’s only 9:20am here and I’m now ridiculously hungry!

I’ve always wanted to try out the mad-hatter’s afternoon tea. Have seen loads of my friends go and then paste the photos all over Facebook. Definitely one to add to the list for when I’m back home next!

Brixton sounds like a food-lover’s dream come true. I love the idea of having a ‘local’ currency, too, in order to help support local businesses. Brilliant.

Haha, sorry! I’ll be writing a post about the mad-hatter’s tea party next week and sharing lots of photos :-)

I live here!! And it’s AWESOME! I love all the places you mention. Would also recommend Spanish… Brindisa, Gremio de Brixton, Boqueria… Or for slightly smarter meals go for Salon or Naughty Piglets. If you want cocktails there’s Shrub and Shutter (although that’s gotten more expensive recently) or the Beast of Brixton. Gremio does good cocktails too. I love the food in Brixton – I’m a triathlon blogger but reviews of Brixton restaurants always seem to creep onto my blog because I just want to give them a big shout-out – so I am so pleased you have done too!!

Yay! I’m glad I could do it justice :-) Thanks so much for the suggestions — I’ve added them all to my list of where to check out when I return (and maybe hopefully move there!)

Yum, the food pictures look delicious! Being in your hometown with a traveller’s mindset is the best thing! I’ve rediscovered my own country recently as well and I’m happy to live at home. Also wandering around with a camera makes you appreciate all the sights you would normally miss!

It makes such a difference, doesn’t it? I was even admiring the lampposts as we were walking around London recently haha!

As a born-and-bred Londoner for 27 years (I moved to Manchester 6 months ago), I’m almost ashamed to say that my only experiences of Brixton have mostly involved underage drinking and various emo gigs at the Academy. I’m travelling at the moment and trying to plan a Christmas visit home with my boyfriend and I think it’s safe to say that eating my way through Brixton is now firmly on my list! …as well as the rugby!

Hahaha! Yes, definitely add Brixton to your list! And the rugby was so. much. fun!

P.S. I love your Taiwan post!

Forget about the food in Brixton and drag Dave down to the O2 and watch a live band. Having just been to see Garbage play the 20th anniversary of their debut album I can definitely recommend it.

Loved the book by the way and from your blog over the years I’m guessing there is more to come ;-)

Ha! Our music tastes don’t align all that often. I’m all about classic rock and he loves grunge. One of the the great things about London, though, is how many people play there! I’d be going to gigs all the time if I lived there :-)

And thank you! So happy to hear you enjoyed my book :-D

That Honest Burger looks and sounds amazing. I will definitely have to check it out on my next visit to London! I’ve never spent much time in Brixton, and now I’m wondering how in the world I missed it.

It’s definitely worth visiting! :-)

Oh wow! I could probably live there too with all that food, and you are right they are not that pricey for London. I lived in the UK for almost 5 years around 12 years ago and haven’t been back since. I remember that I was always complaining about the weather (!) but now I kinda I miss it, especially during the hot and dry season here in Indonesia. And I also miss the prawn cocktail crisps!

Prawn cocktail crisps: so good! It surprises me how much I miss the weather, too.

Oh yum, I could eat everything in this post. Looks like you had an amazing month!

http://www.justbeingbrooklyn.com

It was definitely a month of eating! :-D

This has been so helpful. My friends live near Brixton, this article pushed me to get my friends to explore Brixton more. We’ve had great experiences at Mama Lans and Okan. Thanks for posting this!

So happy to hear that, Laura! :-)

Looks like you guys had a fabulous time. Can I explore London with you?? LOL!! Why would you have to fake an American drawl? That is so terrible. Granted I think Brits can fake an American accent better than anyone. You sound even better than Americans do and I am American. LOL!!! Can’t wait to see what your new year of travel brings.

Haha! I fake the accent because nobody can understand my British accent and I get fed up with having to repeat myself 50 times only to have people ask me why I didn’t just pronounce it the American way. Americans usually can’t even understand me when I say my name!

Congratulations on your success with Dave. I have always felt that no matter where you go, home is home. I love food blogs, and yours was that and more. The apartment is stunning, and the food looks delicious. The Mad Hatter’s tea is one party I want to go to. You must have had such a delightful time. Prawn cocktail crisps sound so yummy.

Thanks so much!

I just love Brixton one of my favourite areas in London always check it out for the Jamaican food to be found there. As for Borough market what a heavenly place for a market fan like me. I adore a good farmer’s market and am hoping to collect guest posts on markets around the world.

Yes! I definitely need to head back there for an eating holiday soon :-)

It was interesting reading about your experience in Brixton. I would be interested to visit the place too if I ever go back to London, though I would not be interested in trying out most of the food. Perhaps, I could get a nice flat too that have a nice little kitchen that I can try out my cooking skills.

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How Much Does a Trip to London Cost? (2024 real prices and data)

Trip to London cost

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London is quite possibly the best city in the world. But that “best” comes with a price tag. It’s also one of the most expensive cities to visit in the world. But there are many ways to have a vacation and a trip to London doesn’t have to be prohibitively expensive. 

After living in London and having friends visit as well as now traveling back as much as we can, we’ve learned a bit about how much a trip to London costs as well as ways to save without sacrificing those dream vacation vibes. 

Using all of the estimates we’ll dive into below, a trip for two to London in 2024 will cost $6,087 for a week . But that’s just a starting point. We’ll give you different budget options for your trip so you can better estimate how much a trip to London will cost you. 

Don’t miss some of our best London travel planning resources: Our London Travel Guide has everything you need to know for your trip. Learn about taking the Tube in London , you’ll be using it a lot! You won’t want to leave before checking our London Packing List . Decide whether a day trip to Paris is worth it on your London vacation.

How Much Does a Trip to London Cost (2024 prices)

To estimate how much a trip to London costs, we’re going to look at 5 major categories: Airfare, Hotel, transportation, Food, and Activities. We’ll estimate how much it costs for two people to visit London for one week, but give you all the details so you can adjust the estimates to fit what you’re looking for. 

We’re also looking at dates in June 2024, which is not quite the top of the peak season (July is!), but it’s a month where you’ll usually have lovely weather and prices that are high but not outrageous yet. 

Note: we’re using the exchange rate of £1 = $1.25

Airfare Costs: San Francisco to London

To start off with our trip costs, we’re tackling one of the biggest costs: airfare. We pulled estimates from San Francisco for a direct flight. While there are definitely cheaper months to fly, this is a good baseline estimate. 

For a 7 day return flight from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to London Heathrow (LHR) in June 2024, you’re looking at an average price of $1,300, per person with taxes and fees. 

We selected a very basic economy seat departing June 9 and returning June 16, 2024 for a total of $1,305 on British Airways. Other airlines like Virgin Atlantic and Aer Lingus prices were pretty comparable. 

Total flight cost: $1,305 per person, or $2,610 for two people.  

Hotel Costs

London has so many different accommodation options that span a wide range of budgets. You can stay really far out of the city center and save a lot of money, you can find a single room with a twin bed if you’re a solo traveler or you can stay at an uber luxury hotel and have all of your needs catered to. 

So if you’re looking for a place to save money on your trip, booking cheaper accommodation is a great place to start. 

As far as costs go, Visit Britain reported that in the first six months of 2023, greater London saw the average daily rates of hotel rooms of £187 per night ($234). 

Going along with our June 2024 trip, we have prices for seven different hotels in central London: 

For our cost calculation, I’m going to use the Sydney House Chelsea as it’s mid-priced for central London and we loved our stay at this boutique hotel. 

Total hotel cost: £1,524 or $1,905 for six nights

Check out all our favorite hotel options here .

Transportation

While London is an expensive city to visit, getting around London doesn’t have to be expensive. Public transport is one of the best ways to get around and we love taking the tube , bus, and train. You may have noticed renting a car did not make the list, see our Should You Rent a Car in London for details.

If you’re using an Oyster card or a contactless credit card to get around London (which you should!) there is a daily cap of £8.10 when you’re riding the tube or the bus in Zone 1 and Zone 2 in London. And as most of the sights that you’ll be seeing are in Zone 1 and Zone 2, that means the most you’ll spend on public transport for the day will be £8.10 per person. That’s a great deal! 

If you’re using a contactless credit card, just make sure each person uses the same credit card all day, so you don’t get charged the daily cap on two different cards. 

To estimate total costs, we’ll assume that two people will be hitting the daily cap on their contactless card riding the tube and the bus around London for six days. 

Getting around London will cost £97.20 over six days, or $122.

To and From Heathrow Transportation Costs

There are several different ways you can get to central London from Heathrow Airport and costs vary widely. We’ve done them all depending on how much luggage we have and whether we’re traveling with our kids or riding solo. 

In order from most expensive to least expensive, your options include:

  • £80 for a Black Cab (estimate)
  • £60  for Private Car Service Addison Lee (estimate)
  • £55 for uber (estimate)
  • £25 per person Heathrow Express
  • £13.30 per person Elizabeth Line (tube)
  • £5.60 per person Piccadilly line (tube)

For our estimate, we’ll assume that you’re taking the Elizabeth Line to and from Heathrow Airport for £13.30 per person (£26.60 roundtrip), for two people, or £53.20 total.

Total transportation cost estimate: £97.20 + £53.20 = £150.40 or $188

Trip to London cost borough market

Food Cost in London per Day

London has a thriving food scene and you’ll want to take part in it! Whether you’re ducking into a Chippy (fish and chip shop), stopping for a pint at a pub, or hitting up a trendy Soho restaurant, the food in London is great.

And unlike Switzerland which has staggeringly high restaurant prices, prices in London are in line with any big city. You can find well-priced places like food markets and food halls, upscale options, and everything in between. 

Per day you can expect to spend £75 per person on food, with a moderate budget. 

To get there, we expect that you’ll pay £15 for breakfast, £20 for lunch, and £40 for dinner, on average. 

You can spend less and you can spend more. If you want to gauge how much you’ll spend, here are some examples of what we’ve recently spent eating out in London. The prices below are per person! 

  • Pizza Dinner at Franco Manca: £17 per person
  • Dishoom Dinner: £45 per person
  • Pub lunch: £25 per person
  • Breakfast at Gail’s: £ per person
  • Afternoon tea: £40 per person

A good way to save money on food is to eat at pubs! Read our London Pub Guide for details on visiting pubs.

Total food cost for two people: £900 or $1,125 (£75 per person, per day for six days)

London has so many wonderful free activities. Museums ! The Royal Parks! Sky Garden!

But some things are worth paying for. 

If you’re following our free one-day itinerary in London, you’ll pay for entrance to the Tower of London (£37) and Tower Bridge (£12.30). And for us, paying that to see it was worth it.

Some other example costs include:

  • London Eye: £25.50
  • Buckingham Palace entrance: £19.50 per adult
  • St Paul’s Cathedral entrance: £23
  • Westminster Abbey Entrance: £27
  • Churchill War Rooms: £30
  • Harry Potter World ticket: £53.50 per adult
  • Hamilton Theatre tickets: £54 per person

For the sake of estimating, we’ll assume that two people are going to pay for two different London activities or attractions that cost £30 per person, for £120 total spent ($150) on activities during your trip. 

For a full list of the free museums in London, see our article on the 12 Best Museums in London . Plus you won’t want to miss London’s hidden gems (with lots of free options!)

If you’re in London for a week you do have time to squeeze in a quick day trip outside of the city. Maybe a quick train ride to Windsor, or a visit to Cambridge to go punting in the river? 

To save money, book those rail tickets well in advance! Some examples of train costs include: 

  • Return ticket to Windsor from London: £13.60
  • Return ticket to Cambridge from London: £43.90
  • Return ticket to Oxford from London: £12.00
  • Return ticket to Bath from London: £46.00

We’ll assume you’re going to make a one-day trip to Windsor, spending £13.60 per person on a train ticket and £30 per person on an entrance ticket to Windsor Castle. 

The total cost for a day trip to Windsor is £87.20, or $109

How Much Does a Trip to London Cost for One Week?

Using all of our estimates from above, a trip to London for two people for one week will cost $6,087.

Of course you can spend a lot more or a lot less on your trip, depending on how you like to travel. Prefer the backpacking/hostel route? You could probably easily slash $1,500 or more from the bill. Or if you want to step up your comfort, there are plenty of ways to spend another $2,000.

How Much Does a Trip to London Cost: Budget, Mid-range, and Luxury

We don’t all travel the same way or on the same budget, so what does this one-week trip look like at a variety of different price points? We’ve put together some different budget options. 

For the budget traveler, we grab cheaper hotel and food options, as well as cut out a day trip and any paid activities. That doesn’t mean you miss out! But you’ll need to get creative. For example, instead of touring Westminster Abbey, go in for Evensong when it’s free. 

The midrange trip is what we already covered above.

Looking for a little luxury? We’ve upgraded the hotel, and transportation options, and added in a bigger food budget. Grab a room at the London Marriott Hotel Park Lane, add in afternoon tea at the Ritz (£144 for two), a few more splashy dinners, and a private day tour. Book private transportation to and from Heathrow, and enjoy!

How to Cut Costs on Your Trip to London without Sacrificing Fun

While a trip to London is expensive, there are some ways to trim back on your trip to London costs without it feeling painful.

Travel in the Shoulder Season

The most expensive time to visit London is June and July. The summer months usually see a big surge in visitors thanks to better odds of having sunny weather. So if you’re traveling during those months, expect to pay a premium!

If you’re looking for deals, you can find great prices during the winter months, but you’ll have to contend with the dreary weather. If you love the rain and cold and plan to spend most of your time in museums, this can be a wonderful option. 

But if you’d prefer to steer clear of the coldest and wettest months and you are hoping for cheaper prices, the shoulder season is the time to go. Aim for a trip in May, September, or October. You’ll usually find moderate weather and lower costs. And in my opinion, fall in London and the Cotswolds is extremely underrated. 

Related read: check out the best (and worst) time to visit London so you get your timing right .

Book With Points

If you want to seriously cut costs without sacrificing anything, booking part of your trip with points is a solid option. And you don’t need to be a hard-core travel hacker or a million miler frequent fliers to pay for part of your trip in points. 

We strategically open credit cards throughout the year to qualify for sign-up bonuses. Those sign-up bonuses are usually enough to pay for our flights to Europe (in points!) and a few nights at a hotel. 

And we always make sure to pay off our balance in full each month, because no amount of free travel is worth credit card fees, interest, or debt. 

To learn how to book with points and step-by-step guidance on getting a free hotel stay, check out our BookedWithPoints.com for details.

Book Your Travel Early

The earlier you book the more deals to be had! Trying to book last-minute trips can be prohibitively expensive and can throw your travel budget out of whack. Plus, when you book early you have better options as more things are available!

We try to book at least six months out to find the best rates and availability. While you can still find deals closer to your travel, you’re rolling the dice with last-minute deals. We’ve sometimes done well planning last minute (we scored a great deal on a last-minute apartment with a view of the Eiffel Tower), but we usually end up paying more. 

Last year we rented an apartment in London for a month and we were able to get such a good deal by booking it nine months in advance. Had we booked later than that, the price of the stay would’ve been far too expensive. 

Stay a Bit Further Out

While staying in central London is extremely convenient, it’s also very expensive. Thankfully, London has a very easy public transport system that can get you anywhere you want to go. If you’re having trouble finding hotels that are in your price range, there are so many great options if you want to stay outside of the city center. 

To keep things easy, make sure you’re booking a hotel that is on the tube line or a train line. For example, you can book a well-priced room at the Spread Eagle Pub in Wandsworth, which is just a quick train ride to Clapham Junction or London Waterloo. Or the Lodge Hotel in Putney which is just a quick 5-minute walk from the East Putney Tube stop. 

Rein in Food Costs

I’ve said it many times and I’ll say it again: London has great food. And what’s more, London has great food at a range of price points. Eating in London does not need to be an expensive affair. Grab a coffee and a Bircher Muesli for breakfast from Pret. Eat at a food market for lunch (check out a list of our favorite food markets in London) or a museum cafe. Enjoy £5 cream tea rather than a full afternoon tea. And grab a kebab for dinner. Jordan and I used to get a takeout kebab all the time for dinner when we lived in London and it was a cheap and filling £15 meal for the two of us. 

Eating in London can be as expensive or inexpensive as you make it. 

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The capital of the UK is a 21st-century megacity, where old and new meet underneath the iconic skyline. Regal palaces and Roman architecture mesh with contemporary landmarks and towering skyscrapers. But one thing London is not is cheap.

It is one of the most expensive places to live in Europe with some of the world’s most expensive properties. From accommodation to attractions, visiting the home of Big Ben and the London Eye can really add up. You’re probably wondering by now whether visiting London on a budget is even possible, but the English capital doesn’t have to break the bank.

From free attractions to travel hacks, cheap eats, and more, our guide looks at all the ways to make your pennies stretch to find out is London really that expensive after all? Whether you have your sights set on London for your next city break or you’re planning a move to the heart of the UK, we’re here to make it more affordable. Let’s get into it. 

Table of Contents

The Average Cost of a Holiday to London

So you’ve got your eyes on the English capital for your next holiday abroad, but how much your vacation will cost depends on a few important factors. From where you’re coming from, to the size of your party and everything you plan to see, London is never going to be cheap, but your spending habits could make it twice as expensive. 

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London is great for families with endless attractions and exciting historical sights. But the city also has a thriving nightlife, a vibrant student community, countless romantic destinations, and no shortage of places of cultural importance. It might accommodate every traveler, but that doesn’t mean it accommodates every budget. Still, there are areas you can cut corners to save on your travels to the big city. 

Looking at the average costs for a one-week trip to London, a solo traveler can expect to spend around £1,014 ($1,720) including accommodation, food, and activities. This averages at around £1,800 ($2,362) for two people and as much as £5,136 ($6,741) for a family of four. But staying in the cheapest accommodation, visiting free or minimal attractions and cooking your own meals could see these costs almost half. You could budget as little as £60 ($78.74) per day, not including your travel to the city, and still get by in London.  

Of course, there’s a considerable difference between £1,000 and less than £500 for a one-week trip, and how much your trip to London costs depends on how much you plan ahead. Keep reading to see how all these costs break down and realistic travel tips to seeing London on a budget.  

Cost of Travel to London

The costs of flights are always changing, no matter where you’re coming from. But the further you’re located from London, the more you need to budget for your flights – It’s not rocket science.

You’ll find some of the cheapest flights to London in the low season, this is just after December when the Christmas crowds have died down and temperatures are at their lowest in the city. But February and March start to see Spring sunshine creep in and can be the perfect months for a city break if saving money is on your agenda. 

Flying from Europe will be the cheapest way to get to London, with regular deals from budget airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, and WizzAir. You can find flights for as little as £25 ($31) return and £120 ($157) on average from most European destinations including Ireland, Italy, France, and Spain. 

Coming from Australia, Asia, and the States will cost considerably more, with Sydney being one of the most expensive destinations from which to travel to London. Expect to spend between £324 ($450) and £1,008 ($1,400) for return flights from New York, Los Angeles, and Vancouver, and around £720 ($1,000) to £1,296 ($1,800) for flights from Down Under. 

When it comes to getting around in the city, London transport is efficient. Taxi prices have skyrocketed in recent years, and even the so-called low-cost alternative to London’s iconic “Black Cabs” can be extortionate, with Uber and Bolt rides costing an average of £20 ($26) for a half an hour trip. Although public transport prices are also consistently on the rise, you can still get around the city center for less than £8 ($11) a day and £30 ($39) a week. 

A daily travel card for the city of London and all six of its transport zones can cost as much as £14, but if you stick to the city center (zones one and two) and pay by contactless or Oyster Card, your travel expenses will cap at £7.70 ($10) a day and £28.80 ($37) a week. Stick to buses, and this cap is as little as £5 ($7), with Pay As You Go bus journeys costing £1.65 per ride, and two for the price of one within the same hour. 

Public transport is one of the least expensive things about visiting London, that’s if you do it right and make the most of travel caps and the extensive bus routes. You might have to deal with heavy traffic and crowded carriages, but waiting times are often short and buses are a great way to see the city as you get around. Although don’t be fooled by postcards, we Londoners don’t use open-air buses for everyday travel. These tourist buses are actually guided tours and cost considerably more than average commuter buses. But they are a great way to see more of London .   

Accommodation Prices in London 

London accommodation is always going to be costly, but where you stay makes all the difference. Hotels in the city generally range from £58 ($77) to £267 ($351) a night, averaging at £147, and vacation rentals come in between £213 ($280) and £449 ($590) a night. Accommodation is most expensive on the weekend and during the summer months, but staying on the outskirts of the city in budget lodgings could halve your holiday expenses.

London is also an expensive place to rent if you plan to stay for the long haul. Furnished apartments in sought-after postcodes, close to central transport lines, can cost an average of £2,500 per month, and £1,200 per month in suburban neighborhoods. 

London accommodation is diverse and extensive, but Airbnb systems limit entire home listings in Greater London to just 90 nights a year. So let’s look at some of the alternative accommodation options for different budgets in London: 

Smart Hyde Park View ($) – This cheap hotel is just a few minutes’ walk from London’s Central Park, offering clean rooms in a laid-back London property. 

Safestay Holland Park ($) – With room prices starting as low as £37 ($48) a night, Safestay is a true budget option offering hostel-style lodgings in an upmarket area on the edge of Central London. 

Hub by Premier Inn London City Bank ($$) – Brought to you by the budget hotel group, Premier Inn, Hub offers efficient city center accommodation in the heart of a trendy East London neighborhood.

The Chelsea Harbour Hotel & Spa ($$$) – With stylish business suites, unmissable Chelsea Harbour views, and an indoor pool, this five-star hotel is located in one of London’s most sought-after neighborhoods, just minutes from the elegant shops and restaurants of the Fulham Road.  

Marriot County Hall ($$$) – Complete with a state of the art fitness suite and spa, iconic tea rooms, and London Eye-view rooms, Marriot County Hall is the epitome of five-star London accommodation set in an iconic Waterloo building. 

Cost of Food in London

Eating out is the more expensive option in most cities, but that doesn’t mean you have to avoid London’s restaurants if you’re trying to keep the costs down. The foody scene encompasses Michelin-star eateries, world-class pub grub, exotic street food, and cheap East End staples – do your research and you can sample it all even on a shoestring budget. 

You’ll find the ultimate comfort food in London’s pubs and you need to have at least one roast dinner if you’re visiting England. Expect to pay between £15 ($19) to £25 ($32) for a full roast at most independent taprooms in the city, and a lot less at a pub chain. Fish and chips and pie and mash are also among the quintessential London dishes that you can still find for a steal. Cod and mushy peas come in at £8 ($10) on average, and head to East London for eel pie and gravy for as little as £5 ($6). 

London is also a great place for global cuisine. Borough Market, Brick Lane, Newham, and Enfield are home to a high concentration of renowned Indian, Bangladeshi, and Pakistani restaurants. Competitive prices mean revelers can secure another London favorite, affectionately and collectively known as “a curry”, for between £10 ($17) and £20 ($34).

Kebab shops, chain pubs, and “greasy spoon” cafes or “caffs” are also great for all-day affordable food. And if you’re really looking to save, sourcing your own groceries and cooking at home is your best bet. Head to Aldi, Lidl, or Morrison’s for a huge selection of products and affordable basics.  

Cost of Nightlife in London

It might have a thriving variety of bars, pubs, and clubs, but London is notoriously expensive for nightlife and it’s hard to cut corners unless you really know the city. The average price of a pint of beer in London is around £5 ($7), that’s more than 20 percent higher than the UK average. Some London pubs even charge as much as £7 ($9) for a pint, but you can still find cheap beer in pub chains like Weatherspoons or Harvester. 

Some locations offer pints for less than £3 ($4) and these establishments sell all kinds of cheap alcohol from wine to cocktails. But they often get a bad rep for their outdated decor, dull atmospheres, and crowds of underage punters. 

The city center is the most expensive for alcohol with some London clubs charging upwards of £10 ($13) for a bottle of beer. But head to the South East for a night out in one of London’s trendy suburbs like Peckham or Deptford, for attractive happy hour deals and cheaper pints. Cocktails might still be £9 ($11), but two-for-one deals make this easier to swallow, quite literally. 

When it comes to events, you can find free music and entertainment everywhere in London. Skip the £20 ($26) ticket to Ministry of Sound, and head to Camden on a Friday for a free gig or amateur stand-up comedy show, it will be worth it. 

Cost of Things to Do in London

London is great for its attractions and the city is jam-packed with iconic landmarks. Monuments like Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament are best enjoyed from a stroll across Westminster Bridge and you can likewise view many of London’s sights completely free or from a distance.

We even think that you can enjoy London with a $0 budget for attractions, if necessary. But most people want to look a little beyond the skyline and into the capital’s history, for which you can expect to pay between £15 ($20) and £50 ($65) a day, depending on the experiences you choose.  

A guided tour around the Tower of London will set you back £30 ($40), while a glimpse inside St. Paul’s Cathedral costs £21 ($28). And if you want to take in the best panoramic views of London from the Shard or the London Eye, expect to pay £32 ($43) and £27 ($38) respectively. Still, both iconic landmarks are equally enjoyable from the ground!

You can purchase nifty attraction passes like the London Pass for access to over 80 attractions with a hop-on hop-off bus tour included. Prices start at around £100 ($130) for 12-month validity, but if you’re into seeing the sights of the city, this is more than worth it. 

We argue that taking yourself on a free walking tour is the best way to get a taste of London life. From Covent Garden and the West End to the big lights of Picadilly Circus, Westminster Abbey, and the Southbank promenade, the city of London is more compact than you might think and most sights are within walking distance of each other. The Thames River Taxi is also just £15 ($20) and offers unparalleled views of the Tower of London, Westminster, and London Bridge from the water.  

7 Money-Saving Tips for London

Travel by bus – London public transport is surprisingly efficient and busses are the cheapest way to get around. Priced at just £1.65 a ride and with two-for-one deals within an hour, you can see a lot of the city in the vehicles synonymous with London. Better yet, daily bus expenses are capped and you can get around for less than £5 a day.

Make the most of free attractions – So many of London’s attractions are best viewed from the ground. There’s no reason to take a look inside St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Shard when their exteriors are equally impressive. Head to rooftops bars for skyline views and save pennies on expensive attractions. 

Get a London pass – If you do want to see some landmarks, get a London pass to save on entrance fares. You can save over £80 with the £100 ticket if you want to see a lot of attractions.   

Book online in advance – From West End shows to the Harry Potter experience, booking ahead won’t only save cash but waiting times and disappointment. You’ll also find the best prices for popular attractions online and on price comparison sites.    

Go to happy hours – Alcohol is one of the most expensive things in the city. Keep an eye out for happy hour deals and start your Friday night early with the attractive deals that crop up at bars all over the city from 5 pm to 7 pm.

Stay in a hostel – Hostels have long been a way for travelers to pinch pennies, but London’s hostels are a far cry from the grimy dorms you’ll find in Southeast Asia. There are many hostels in London and they’re the cheapest place to grab a private double room. Find one with a shared kitchen and you’ve lucked out.  

Cook at home – Sampling the restaurant scene when you’re in London is essential, but eating out can be extortionate, so stock up on cheap groceries and make your own meals. The same goes for alcohol. You can find high-quality bottles of wine in supermarkets and mini-marts going for the same price as glasses in bars and restaurants. 

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Top tips for visiting London on a budget

Jade Bremner

Mar 11, 2024 • 7 min read

A Black woman looking at the River Thames in front of Tower Bridge

You can see the best of London without blowing your budget © AzmanJaka / Getty Images

London has a reputation as one of the most eye-wateringly expensive cities to visit in Europe. Its fame and global appeal have long made it a top "bucket list" destination, with jacked-up accommodation prices and exorbitantly priced experiences, from swanky fine dining to designer shopping.

But there are easy ways to enjoy London without taking out a giant bank loan. Follow these transport, accommodation and meal hacks to save stacks of cash when exploring England's capital.

Daily costs

  • Dorm bed in a hostel: £15–30
  • Basic hotel room for two: £100–200
  • Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): from £100
  • Daily transport travel card: £15.20
  • Cup of coffee: £2–6
  • Lunchtime sandwich: £3–8
  • Three-course restaurant dinner for two: from £80
  • A pint of beer at the bar: £4–8
  • Theatre ticket for a West End show: £25
  • Average daily cost: £200

Hyde Park Serpentine man made lake and lots of people walking and reacting in the park

Flying is generally the cheapest way to get to London

Europe's budget airlines, including EasyJet , Ryanair , Wizz Air , Wow Air and others offer hugely competitive fares to the UK capital. However, check which airport you are flying into, as you may have to tag on the price of a costly train fare if you arrive at an airport farther from the center (including London Stansted, London Southend, London Luton and London Gatwick). Also check flight times, as arriving early in the morning (particularly on a weekday) can mean tricky transport links, and possibly a pricey taxi transfer to town.

Stay outside central London to find lower overnight rates

London is divided into nine transport zones, with the most expensive accommodations found in the center in Zone 1 and Zone 2. To save money on accommodation rates, consider staying in Zone 3 or Zone 4 near a Tube station – you'll pay less and you can still take public transport to the main attractions. Good deals can be found in areas such as Stratford and Islington, or try near King’s Cross if you must be downtown. Budget motel-style hotels such as Premier Inn and Travelodge are another option, as are hostels for solo travelers. Prices for Airbnb apartments can also be reasonable if you're traveling in a group (stay in the suburbs for lower rates).

Take a walk or use public transport to get around

London is a huge, sprawling city – it would take more than a day to walk across town from east to west. However, in central London, distances between attractions are very walkable, often along atmospheric old streets lined with historic buildings. When your legs get weary, hop on a red London bus or take the Tube to cover more distance.

Another great option is to rent a Santander Cycle from one of the docking stations dotted around the center. This budget transport option costs less than £2 per day, allowing unlimited trips if you ride and dock within 30 minutes on each trip.

A view of the theatres in London's West End at night

Take advantage of pre-theater restaurant deals

Dinner in the West End is usually cheaper if you go before the curtain call. Many restaurants in London's "Theatreland" offer three-course meals for a fraction of the regular price, starting from when they open at around 5pm until around 7:30pm, on the condition that you'll be gone by the time the shows start. Another option is to dine out earlier in the week (Monday to Wednesday) when restaurants and pubs offer "Taco Tuesdays" and "Steak Clubs" and other similar offers. 

Buy theater tickets far in advance

Sign up to theater mailing lists when you book your trip to London, and whenever a show you are interested in begins its run. Tickets in the West End can cost as little as £20 booked ahead of time, but you might pay hundreds if you leave booking to the day before. Some last-minute theater booking websites may have tickets available for the next day, but these will likely cost you more.

Budget diners should look for end-of-the-night deals

Apps such as Too Good To Go can help you find takeaway meals at restaurants just before closing time, at a fraction of the normal price. Sometimes the food can be a mixed bag, and you may not know what you’ll be getting until you turn up – it's not ideal for fussy eaters, but it helps restaurants reduce food waste, serving up portions that would typically be thrown away.

Tourists at the Tower of London on a sunny day

Save money on attractions with a discount pass

Buy a London Pass and you'll get free entry to some 80 attractions in the city, including the Tower of London , Hampton Court Palace , London Zoo and Windsor Castle . If you plan on visiting multiple sights over several days, the savings can be considerable. If you intend to visit royal attractions such as the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace and Kensington Palace , consider getting a Historic Royal Palaces annual membership (from £55 for unlimited entries), as admission fees for these attractions average around the £25 mark for each visit.

Hit the free museums and galleries

One of the best things about London is the fact that many of its world-class attractions don’t charge a penny, from the extraordinary Natural History Museum and Science Museum to the magnificent Tate Modern . There are also free theater shows, music concerts, movie screenings and more (read our guide to free London for tips).

Eat street food at London’s many markets

Visiting London's street markets will give you a chance to support local vendors, and you'll also get to sample home-grown British produce and all sorts of flavors from around the world, often for just a few pounds. Camden Market , Borough Market , Seven Dials Market and Broadway Market are some of the best. Many vendors are happy to offer free samples before you buy.

A plate of traditional fish and chips in London

Eat local foods to save on cash

There’s a reason we say "cheap as chips" – a bag of chips in a local chippy (fish and chips joint) should only set you back a few pounds if you head out of the center. It’s one of the cheapest, most filling meals you can eat in the capital. Alternatively, hit a local "greasy spoon" cafe – these traditionally working-class joints offer breakfasts (usually fried) for less than £10 in a cafeteria-like setting.

Head to a traditional East End pie-and-mash shop to try another working-class delicacy that won’t break the bank; expect to pay £5–15 for a full liquor-slathered pie with mashed potatoes. Alternatively, eat at the pub, where meals are usually a fraction of the price of a restaurant (again, head out of central London to get the most bang for your buck). Also, seek out all-you-can-eat curry buffets (like the one served by Indian Veg in Islington’s Chapel Market) to load up on tasty Indian dishes for around £15.

Go to a BYOB restaurant

Dining establishments without a liquor license often allow patrons to bring their own bottles of booze, either for free or with a small corkage charge. This means you can get your plonk in a supermarket for a fraction of the price charged by restaurants, and save a ton on service charges too.

A group of friends meet up in a pub in London

Hit the happy hour drinks deals

If you’re prepared to drink early – typically between 3pm and 6pm – you'll save money on cocktails, beers and wines in London. Look for details of the best happy hour deals on listings websites such as Design My Night , Time Out , Secret London and London Drinks Guide . Happy hours usually run from Monday to Friday and target workers leaving the office early.

Students, children and over-60s get discounts

Discounts for students, children and the over-60s are available at many tourist attractions, at some entertainment venues and on public transport. Checking for these discounts every time is an easy way to save cash. Free events are regularly held for these groups too; check on attraction websites and social media for upcoming deals.

Check for voucher deals online 

Spas, tour companies, stores, restaurants and some tourist sights offer regular voucher deals online (see websites such as VoucherCodes , Groupon and Wowcher ). Also look out for promo coupons for family attractions such as the London Aquarium and Legoland Windsor on packets of snacks and breakfast cereals. It’s well worth checking for internet or app deals before you book any London experience.

This article was first published Sep 8, 2023 and updated Mar 11, 2024.

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London Travel Planning

How Much Does it Cost to Go to London (A Budget Planner for your Trip) 

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: March 11, 2024

If you want to head over to the UK capital, then you need to know how much to budget for what might be the first of many visits – or a once-in-a-lifetime trip. London has a reputation for being costly – so how much does it cost to go to London?

When you’re wondering how much does it cost to travel in London, this guide is here to help. We are from the UK ourselves, and have visited the capital many times over the years. So we’re very familiar with the prices of transport, food, entertainment and more in London. 

Want a quick answer? We recommend budgeting around £105 plus (about $130 in US dollars) per day, per person, after paying to get there. You can of course spend a lot more, or a little less, but our recent trip revealed this figure to be a good starting point. 

Of course the first thing you need to budget for when heading to London is getting there, so don’t forget to add that on top. Clearly we cannot cover that within this guide, as costs vary so much according to season, mode of transport and of course your starting point. But a simple online search should soon show up prices for the dates you want.

Harder to work out when planning a trip to London is how much spending money you’ll need while you’re there. Again how much you’ll spend on a trip to London, England can vary widely, but we are here to give you some guidance in that direction!

Read on to find out all about London prices, plus top tips to help you make the most of every penny!

average london trip cost

UK Travel Planning Podcast Episode

London accommodation prices, london food prices, london transport prices, london attraction prices, london entertainment prices, what to pay in advance, what to pay for in london, total cost per day, 10 top tips for saving money in london, the cost of going to london – final word, london costs by category.

Hand holding a hotel key with Big Ben and a red telephone box in the background.

  • Budget from £75 per person, per night (based on 2 sharing a room)
  • A 3-star hotel in Zone 1 costs from around £150 per room per night

We recommend budgeting for your London accommodation at the same time as working out the cost of your transport to London. You’ll probably be paying for it then anyway, and that ensures you’ll have a roof over your head for the duration of your stay in London. 

Though you may be tempted to stay further from the city centre to cut costs, we have one word of advice here. Don’t! By staying centrally you can save heaps on transport, and time is also on your side. Anywhere in zone one is a good bet: you don’t have to book into a five-star Mayfair hotel. 

Outside of peak times such as summer and Christmas, a night at a three-star hotel in London in zone one can cost from around £150 per night. This is per room rather than per person, so two adults would pay £75 per night each for accommodation in this case

Prices can rise steeply during periods of high demand. For the most luxurious London properties, room rates can cost thousands of pounds per night. So it’s really down to you and what you’re prepared to spend. 

Read – Where to stay in London: area and accommodation guide

Man holding a sandwich and a plastic cup of juice.

  • Budget from £10 per day, per person (based on buying supermarket food).   
  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner at a cafe or restaurant costs from about £10 per main course, but you can save money by buying food from the supermarkets scattered across the city.

The price of food is another factor that’s subject to vast variations. You could spend hundreds of pounds per day, per person on eating out at upmarket restaurants. Or you could live solely on food bought in supermarkets and spend as little as £10 per day. 

In reality, most people are going to be somewhere between these two extremes. Breakfast may be included with your hotel’s room rate, or you may need to pay separately for it. If you do want to dine at the hotel each morning, it’s best to pay for a bed and breakfast rate when booking your accommodation. Then that cost is taken care of in advance. 

Each meal eaten at a cafe or restaurant is likely to cost £10 upwards per main course. Plus any starters, desserts, sides and drinks. For dinner, the figure is closer to £20 upwards. 

You can save a lot of cash by eating out just once per day. And if you want to eat somewhere fancy, set lunch menus often offer far better value for money than an a la carte dinner menu. For your other meals and snacks, you can simply pick up sandwiches and other items on the go – there are great value supermarkets such as Sainsbury’s and Tesco all over the capital.

Eating in areas abundant in ethnic restaurants – such as Chinatown near Leicester Square or Brick Lane in East London – can also save you money. You may also enjoy the more authentic experience. Try asking hotel staff where they recommend if you want to eat like a local. 

Another great place to eat is at a food market like Borough Market. Prices aren’t always cheap, so do shop around between stalls!

London bus.

  • Budget from £5 per day, per person (based on 2 zone 1 tube trips per day), plus the cost of getting to your hotel. 
  • Adult single fares within zone 1 cost £2.50, and a tube ticket from Heathrow to central London costs £5.50. Save cash by walking as much as you can and visiting attractions in the same area on the same day. 

London is a big, sprawling city – which is why we recommend staying in zone 1 to save on time and travel costs. In some cases you can walk between areas and attractions: Covent Garden isn’t very far from Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus, for example, or you could walk from Knightsbridge to Oxford Street via Hyde Park. Westminster isn’t far from the South Bank and London Eye. And so on. 

Planning your itinerary can thus pay dividends when it comes to saving time and money. Visiting attractions in the same area can save a lot on transport costs – as can walking. 

At the time of writing (December 2022), a single adult fare within zone 1 costs £2.50 when paying by Oyster or contactless card . This is better value for money the further within the zone you travel. Some stations are very close together, so always consider whether you could walk if you want to save cash!

The other cost to factor in is getting from the airport into London. Taxis are very expensive. There are express services for Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted.

The cheapest option – if you arrive at Heathrow as many international travellers do – is to take the Piccadilly Line tube. This takes around an hour to reach central London and the current cost is £5.50 via contactless or Oyster card. 

View of London from the London Eye.

  • Budget from free to hundreds of pounds per day (based on what you want to do). 
  • London attraction prices vary a lot. Exploring areas and visiting museums and parks is free, however. As a guide, a London Eye ticket costs from £32.50 per person. 

So how much does it cost to go on the London Eye , and other big city attractions? Costs vary hugely, and what you spend on these is a matter of personal preference as well as budget.

Perhaps surprisingly for such a touristy city, London has a lot of free attractions. Its public parks and museums could keep you occupied for days, and are free to enter. Even watching the Changing of the Guard or seeing the Christmas lights is free (unless you book a guided tour). 

Entry to the Tower of London costs around £30 per adult, or pay £32.50 for a trip on the London Eye. Our top tip regarding London attractions is to book these before you go via GetYourGuide . Then what you want to do is all paid for, ensuring you don’t miss out! They don’t cost any extra, and you can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund. 

Click here to book London attraction tickets in advance

Lyceum Theatre showing the Lion King.

  • Budget anything from nothing to tens or hundreds of pounds per day. 
  • Drinks cost from £5 upwards in London pubs, while a cinema ticket will set you back about £12 plus. 

If you want to paint London town red by night, then ‘guv it’s gonna cost ya’ as they say in these parts. A pint of lager will cost from £5 upwards, and a glass of wine more. Cocktails are a lot more expensive. 

Cinema tickets will cost you around £12 to £15 or more. If you want to see a show in London, book as early as you can for the cheapest seats. Again, this also means the cost is taken care of before you go. 

Budget planning for London – The verdict

The best way to plan your London spending is to book and pay for what you can before you go. So once getting there is taken care of, book your accommodation and your attractions tickets before you arrive. 

This way all you’ll need to budget for is the day-to-day costs of food, transport and entertainment. What these cost varies widely, as with hotels, but here’s a brief rundown for your reference:

  • Accommodation – Book before you go and budget from £75 per person per night.
  • Food – Budget from £10 per day plus.. 
  • Transport – Budget about £5 per day plus one return tube trip within zone 1.  
  • Attractions – Book before you go and budget about £30 per major attraction. 
  • Entertainment – Budget as much per day as you think you’ll need. 
  • Accommodation + attraction tickets – from about £90 per day for both (minimum based on sharing a 3-star hotel room and doing one paid attraction every other day). 
  • Food + transport + entertainment – from about £15 per day for all three (minimum based on supermarket food, one return tube trip per day and NO entertainment). 
  • Accommodation + food + transport + attractions + entertainment = £105 per day minimum per person – up to as much as you can afford!
  • Book a central hotel in zone 1
  • Walk as much as you can each day 
  • Take the tube from Heathrow into central London 
  • Visit attractions that are close together on the same day
  • Take advantage of free London attractions including parks, museums and more
  • Eat out at food markets or in ethnic areas rather than expensive hotel restaurants
  • Buy as much food as you can in the supermarkets all over London and dine out less
  • Book and pay for accommodation and attraction tickets before you go so you don’t miss out and can budget more easily (consider purchasing the London Pass )
  • Allow more money than you think you’ll need – you may only visit once in a lifetime and prices are always rising
  • Don’t forget to factor in any gifts, souvenirs or special items you want to buy for friends and family – or yourself

There’s no doubt about it – London is a pricey city. But it IS so worth it! Plan in advance and you really can save so much time and money. 

Don’t forget that London’s fine parks and world-class museums are free to enter – and wandering around seeing the sights costs nothing. Even iconic events like the Changing of the Guard are free to the public – and there’s no charge for gazing at the London Eye, Buckingham Palace or Tower Bridge either!

Plan your trip to London

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London Prices & Travel Costs

London is arguably the best first-destination for those who are new to European travel. It’s overwhelmingly large, but still quite well organized and if you can read this then the language won’t be an issue for you. Plan on spending at least 3 nights here at a minimum, and 4 nights would be better.

>>> London cheap travel tips

Is London Expensive or Cheap?

London is famously expensive for visitors and there isn’t much you can do about it except bring enough money. Hotel rooms and hostels are pricey and often quite small as well. Food and drinks are rarely cheap so it’s helpful to buy them at supermarkets and do a bit of self-catering to keep your budget intact.

Most famous attractions in London are extremely expensive, even compared to the rest of Europe, but the many state-run museums are all still free so at least you can get some culture without breaking the bank.

London City Featured Image

Travel Costs to London

Accommodation costs in london.

London is one of the most expensive cities to visit on the planet. Once you learn your way around a bit you can keep your budget under control, but when you first arrive it feels like you are being beaten up by shockingly high prices. Cheap hotels are available in some neighborhoods, but expect a tiny and worn-out-looking windowless room if you go too low. See our recommended London hotels and hostels page for great value at well-located places.

>>> Recommended cheap London hotels and hostels

Check London hotels

London hotel seasons.

London is popular throughout the year, as it’s not dependent on pleasant weather to draw visitors. The months of June through August bring the biggest crowds and the highest hotel prices, so if you are planning on a visit during the summer months it’s a good idea to book as early as possible.

Outside of the summer it’s usually easy to find a room upon arrival, but going door to door in the few neighborhoods that are dense with hotels (like Victoria or Bayswater) can be exhausting, so it’s best to book at least your first night if you can.

Standards at London hotels are noticeably lower than in most other major cities in Europe and elsewhere. In other words, rooms tend to be tiny and often look badly worn, unless you are staying at a pricey boutique or international chain hotel. Apartment life in the city is similar, so it’s just something people have grown used to, though it can be a bit shocking when you first check into a place.

London Hotel Prices

Recommended hotels, london hostels prices, recommended hostels, london attractions prices.

The good news is that almost all of the famous museums, including the huge and amazing British Museum, are free to enter for everyone. But most of the other famous attractions are crazy expensive, so research the many free things to do if your budget is tight. On the other hand, our review of the London Pass shows that it’s quite good value for many visitors. We’ve prepared a long article featuring the best things to do in London , which should be helpful for a first-time visitor or planner.

Best tours in London

London is a huge city so there are dozens of different ways of touring the place, many of which are very affordable. The “free” walking tours given by Sandeman’s New London are excellent and worth the small tip you’ll give the guide at the end.

The most popular tours are the ubiquitous double-decker bus tours given by several different companies that follow very similar hop-on, hop-off routes. They aren’t exactly cheap, but they are the best affordable way to see a great number of London’s highlights in just a few hours.

Since London started as a few villages along them Thames River and grew from there, the Thames River cruises leaving from near Big Ben are another excellent tour choice since they move quickly and don’t have to slow down for traffic.

London Food and Drink Prices

Food and drinks can also be frustratingly expensive, especially if you stay in the main tourist areas. Finding your way to other residential neighborhoods is a money-saving key, and it’ll give you a better feel for the city at the same time. If you are trying to keep costs low while having a great time anyway be sure to check out our London budget travel tips . Most people stay in London, but there are many great and cheap day trips out of London to consider as well.

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London transport prices, getting to london.

If you are coming from anywhere other than France or Scotland, you’ll almost certainly be flying into London. Heathrow Airport is huge and it handles almost all of the flights into England that are longer than 3 hours or so. You’ll sometimes get good fares on flights into London-Gatwick Airport, but the Heathrow airport transportation options are more extensive and usually faster and cheaper.

Those coming from within Europe might find cheap flights into Luton Airport or Stansted Airport, both of which are a bit north of London and without fast transportation options.

If you are coming from Paris, Brussels, or Amsterdam, you can and should arrive on the Eurostar train through the Channel Tunnel.

Getting around London

Since London is almost completely flat and many of the top attractions are built along or near the Thames river, this is a very walkable city. That said, it’s so large and spread out that you’ll definitely want to go outside the inner walking zones so learning to use the famous Underground/Tube is important. Once you buy an Oyster Card to handle payments it becomes quite easy.

London’s famous black taxis are fairly expensive and often must fight bad traffic, but are still worth a try at least once. You can also get around in Ubers or other car-sharing services, although the Tube is probably the best bet during the day.

When to visit London

Temperature and rainfall, london weather advice.

London is known for being gray, and to a lesser extent for being rainy, but the rain rarely comes down hard so the annual rainfall totals are fairly low. Summers are usually very pleasant, almost never getting hot enough to become a problem, and winters are also usually mild with snow being fairly rare.

The gray thing is very true though and cloud cover is common at any time of the year, so take advantage of the sunny days when they come along. And it’s a good idea to pack for drizzly weather so an umbrella might come in handy.

Sunrise and sunset

Where to go before and after.

Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

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Guide to london on a budget | how to save money in london.

How to visit London on a budget — what to do, see, and eat for cheap!

average london trip cost

It might be a little difficult to visit London on a budget but there are plenty of great ways to save money in London. In fact, there are actually plenty of free things in London so mixing free/cheap attractions with the more expensive paid attractions is a great way to spend less on your visit.

So, to help you stretch your London travel budget further, we’ve enlisted the help of some locals to share their favorite affordable restaurants, pubs, neighborhoods, shops, sights, and other attractions perfect for backpackers and other budget-savvy travelers.

Estimating Your Daily Costs For Visiting London on A Budget

average london trip cost

First, let’s take a look at some ballpark costs to see how much it costs to visit London for an average budget-traveler.

I’ll take a much deeper dive into London budget travel costs throughout this article but I wanted to provide a quick overview to get started. You can also check out my London Price Guide .

  • Hostel Prices: £25-£55/night (for the cheapest option)
  • Budget Hotel Prices: €80-€120/night
  • Rental Apartment Prices: €150-€250/night (for an entire centrally-located studio/1br apartment)
  • Budget Breakfast: £3-£5
  • Budget Lunch: £6-£10
  • Budget Dinner: £10-£15
  • Treat (dessert/beer/wine):  £3.50-£6
  • Most Museums: Free
  • Paid Sights: £20-£30
  • London Tube Ride: £2.40 (w/ Oyster card)
  • London City Bus Ride: £1.50
  •  Santander Cycle City Bike: £2 (30-min ride)

Pick Up an Oyster Card For The Tube & Bus

The London Underground (subway) is the fastest way to travel around London but it is expensive — especially if you buy single tickets. You’ll get the best fares when you use the official Oyster Card metro card.

Another benefit to using the Oyster Card is that there is a daily cap (around £8.50) so once you hit that amount you won’t pay extra for the remainder of your rides that day.

Cheap Things To Do In London

London is a bit of an oddity when it comes to sightseeing — the main museums are free but everything else is very expensive.

Take A Free Walking Tour

average london trip cost

One of the things I do when I arrive in a new city is to take a free walking tour — it truly helps me get a feel for the city and the local guides usually have some good tips on places to eat and drink.

These tours are often led by university students and the tours tend to be fun/casual and general in their subject matter. Note: These guides work on tips so they’re not “free” but they’re cheap.

Furthermore, most of these walking tours start in the morning so it’s a good excuse to get up and going.

  • Strawberry Tours
  • Free Tours By Foot
  • Free London Walking Tours

London Walks ( www.walks.com ) isn’t free but their highly recommended tours cost £15.

Take A Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour

I’ve always been a huge fan of Rick Steves and his travel videos, but he’s also put out some excellent self-guided audio walking tours — and they’re all completely free. He has a few different tours for London that cover many of the most-visited areas/sights.

  • Download Rick Steves’ London Audio Tours here
  • Self-Guided Walking Tours By Free ToursByFoot.com

Buy A Quality Guidebook

Yes, I still like traveling with a guidebook as it gives you a ton of helpful information at your fingertips. Most guidebooks come with travel itineraries, self-guided walking tours, and budget dining suggestions so guidebooks end up paying for themselves very quickly.

My favorite guidebooks are Lonely Planet and Rick Steves since they both focus on budget travel. That said, Amazon has a ton of London guidebooks that focus on multiple types of travel.

See A Lot (And Save) With The London Pass

A lot of travelers end up saving a bit of cash (and time waiting in the ticket lines) with the London Pass as it includes a lot of the most popular tourist attractions — notably the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Windsor Castle, View From The Shard Skyscraper, and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre Tour.

I’ve written up a more in-depth London Pass review to see if it’s a good option for your visit.

There is also the newly released London Explorer Pass which might work for some travelers.

Enjoy Cheap Sightseeing Via Public Transport

average london trip cost

Tourist open-top buses and river cruises are a great way of seeing a city but they’re expensive. Luckily, London has a few bus routes and a public ferry that will give you a decent look at popular parts of London at a cheap price.

Here’s a link to the popular London Public Bus Routes PDF from above.

  • Route 11: The section between Liverpool Street Station and Victoria Station hits many of the city’s sights like the City of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Trafalgar Square, Westminster Abbey, and the Houses of Parliament.
  • Route 15: This is a great route for tourists as it passes Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, St Paul’s, Blackfriar’s Bridge, Fleet Street, Waterloo Bridge, the Strand, and Trafalgar Square
  • Route 9: You’ll go by Royal Albert Hall, Hyde Park, Piccadilly, St. James’s Palace, and Trafalgar Square.

The Thames Clipper is London’s public water ferry that runs along the Thames.

Visit One Of the Free London Museums

average london trip cost

Below are London’s best free museums but here’s a list of all 26 free museums in London .

BRITISH MUSEUM

British Museum - London Travel

Opened in 1759, the British Museum is dedicated to two million years of human history, art, and culture — including Egyptian mummies and the Rosetta Stone. Its collection contains over eight million works so it’s easily one of the largest collections in existence. It’s also the most-visited attraction in Europe.

Naturally, like all museums this large, you might want to pick a few sections that interest you instead of trying to see everything. The museum also offers multiple free daily tours that focus on individual sections and last around 30 minutes.

  • Admission: FREE
  • Visit Website
  • See On Google Maps

TATE MODERN ART MUSEUM

Tate Modern - London Travel

One of the world’s best museums for international and modern contemporary art. The Tate Modern, which is built in a former powerplant, has more than 50,000 pieces in its collection. You can also get excellent city views from its viewing platform.

  • Temporary Exhibition: £13–£22

NATIONAL GALLERY

National Gallery - London Travel

The National Gallery has one of the greatest collections of paintings in the world. The museum’s 2000 works date from the mid-13th century to 1900 — with the main focus on European paintings with works from masters like Van Gogh, Rembrandt, Botticelli, and more.

SAATCHI GALLERY

SAATCHI Gallery - London Travel

This private collection of businessman/advertising giant Charles Saatchi. He opened his gallery in 1985 to show his extensive collection of contemporary art and it has grown to be one of the largest private collections in the world.

The collection features both up-and-coming and established contemporary artists so there is always something interesting/cutting-edge/bizarre to check out.

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM

Natural History Museum - London Travel

Are you into all aspects of nature? This is the place to visit. The star attraction is the giant whale skeleton and dinosaur gallery but there a plenty of other things to check out. The Natural History Museum is a favorite of children and school groups but it’s still fun for adults.

VICTORIA AND ALBERT MUSEUM

VICTORIA and Albert Museum - London Travel

The world’s largest museum of decorative arts and design — featuring ceramics, glass, textiles, costumes, silver, ironwork, jewelry, furniture, medieval objects, sculpture, and more from all across the globe.

IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM

Imperial War Museum - London travel guide

The Imperial War Museum covers war and other conflicts from WWI to the present day but its greatest emphasis is on WWII. The ground floor has tanks, trucks, planes, guns, and a range of other military equipment to explore.

There are also exhibits on the Holocaust, spies, and more.

Photographers’ Gallery

Photographers' Gallery - London On A Budget

This is the first public gallery in the UK dedicated solely to photography. They put on a series of different exhibitions from international and British photographers.

  • Tickets are £5 but it’s free after 5 pm (it closes at 6 pm) if you want to pop in.  Visit Website

Tate Britain

average london trip cost

The Tate Britain features British artworks spanning from 1500 to the present day. They offer free tours nearly every hour. Be sure to check out  Late at Tate Britain  on the first Friday of every month — featuring half-price admission to exhibitions, live music, and performance art.

  • Admission is free except for special exhibits.  Visit Website

Take In London’s Street Art

London Street Art - London Travel Guide

London has one of the best street art scenes in Europe and it’s absolutely free to check out. You’ll come across street art in most parts of the city but there are a few neighborhoods that attract the best artists.

Check out Google Arts And Culture: London Street Art and Discover Walks: London Street Art Blog Post to plan your own walk but Discover Walks also offers a guided street art walking tour that runs about £17/person.

Attend Service in London’s Most Famous Churches For Free

Westminster Abbey - London Travel Guide

Westminster Abbey and St. Paul’s Cathedral are two of London’s most famous churches but you have to pay to tour them — unless you’re attending service. Both churches offer multiple services daily.

Chill Out In London’s Best Parks

average london trip cost

Pack a picnic or grab a takeaway kebab (or even a few beers) and head to one of London’s many excellent parks. Luckily, London has a ton of parks to choose from (it is one of the greenest cities in the world) so you’re never very far away from some fresh air.

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Covering over 350 acres, Hyde Park is one of the largest parks in greater London and it is the largest park in central London. It has plenty of walking/bike trails, a nice late for swimming/boating, and tons of green lawn for a picnic — you can even rent lawn chairs for about £2. It’s also famous for its Speakers’ Corner.

KENSINGTON GARDENS

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Kensington Gardens was once the private gardens of Kensington Palace but now it’s open to the public. It’s always full of people enjoying its green space and its large pond has lots of benches to sit on. Kensington Gardens is essentially connected to Hyde Park so it’s easy to explore both locations at the same time.

  • See on Google Maps

REGENT’S PARK

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Regent’s Park has the largest grass area for sports in Central London and offers a wide variety of activities, an Open Air Theatre, and Queen Mary’s Rose Garden. It’s also home to Regents Park Zoo, Regent’s University & The London Mosque.

To the north of the Regent’s Park you’ll find Primrose Hill — which offers nice city views.

HAMPSTEAD HEATH

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Hampstead Heath is a large, 790 acres park to the north of London that’s one of the highest parts of the city so it’s a great place for city views (at Parliament Hill Viewpoint).

Unlike most parks in London, Hampstead Heath is more wild and unmanicured. There are plenty of walking paths, green lawns, and ponds for swimming. You might even seem some deer wandering around.

ST. JAMES’S PARK

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This relatively small 57-acre park in central London is located between Buckingham Palace and the House of Parliament so you’ll probably come across it as you explore these two must-visit sights. It’s a very beautiful park with a great pond, plenty of shady trees, and ample paths to stroll.

GREENWICH PARK

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This large 183 acres park was once a royal hunting ground and now offers up excellent views of the city. It’s also home to the Royal Observatory, Maritime Museum, Meridian Line, large lawns, and flower gardens.

HOLLAND PARK

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Holland Park is another nice park in central London but it’s most known for its Koto Japanese Gardens.

Enjoy City Views of London For Free

average london trip cost

It’s hard to beat a Beautiful view of a city as beautiful as London so here are a few places to soak it all in for free.

Sky Garden - London Travel

Located in the “walkie talkie” skyscraper, the Sky Garden is the highest public garden in London and it offers 360-degree views of the city’s skyline. It’s free to visit and you can have dinner and drinks there as well (which aren’t cheap).

Tate Modern Viewing Level

average london trip cost

The Tate Modern Museum (also free) has an excellent 360-degree observation level that sits 200-feet above London which overlooks River Thames, St Paul’s Cathedral, and the rest of the city’s iconic skyline.

Primrose Hill

Primrose Hill - London Travel

Just north of Regent’s Park, you’ll find Primrose Hill. Make the climb to the top to be rewarded with panoramic views over Regent’s Park and the city. Walk up  Regent’s Park Road  on your way there and stop by one of the delis for a picnic lunch.

Note: London has a few notable skyscrapers and most of them have an expensive observation deck. However, they also have bars that serve up expensive drinks, but the view is free and you get to linger for a bit.

Walk Along The Thames River and Its Bridges

average london trip cost

The River Thames has a beautiful walking path so it makes an excellent place to go for a stroll. Additionally, many of London’s most famous buildings are situated along the river so that makes for a loverly walk.

When it comes to bridges that span the river, the most iconic bridge is Tower Bridge but Westminster Bridge (in front of Big Ben and the houses of Parliament) and Millennium Bridge (connecting St. Pauls and the Tate Modern) are two other popular attractions as well.

WALK ALONG REGENT’S CANAL

average london trip cost

Regents’ Canal is an 8.6-mile canal that runs east to west through northern London (from Little Venice and ends in Docklands). As you walk the canal you’ll come across boats and cafes and cafes on boats and plenty of people enjoying the fresh air.

Do Some Budget-Friendly Shopping

In addition to having just about every chain store and a number of high-end shops, London is also famous for its markets which have vendors selling everything from vintage fashion and trinkets to handmade goods and artisan crafts.

The main markets are:

  • Camden Market
  • Portobello Road
  • Old Spitalfields

London also has a thriving thrift store scene where you might be able to score some second-hand clothing at a decent price (it also has plenty of high-end second-hand stores for more designer apparel).

Recommended thrift stores:

  • Beyond Retro
  • East End Thrift Store
  • Reign Vintage

See A Play or Musical For Cheap

London has a thriving theater scene, and while tickets are typically expensive, there are a few ways to score some cheap tickets.

  • Rush Tickets: These are last-minute tickets that haven’t sold and are heavily discounted. They’re on sale the morning of the show at the theater or by calling.
  • TodayTix : These tickets go on sale a few days or a few weeks before the show.
  • TKTS : This booth sells tickets a few hours before the showtime.

Eating On A Budget in London

average london trip cost

It’s still possible to find fairly affordable restaurants in London but you have to know where to look. I’ve teamed up with a few local London folks to bring you some of their favorite places to eat without spending a lot of money. Want more suggestions — check out London Cheap Eats .

Note: I try to focus on value over rock bottom prices because I still want quality food when I’m eating on a budget.

Note: I also focused on restaurants that are fairly centrally located since that’s where most visitors will spend the bulk of their time.

General Budget Dining Tips

average london trip cost

International Cuisine Is A Great Value

Chinese, Vietnamese, Turkish, Indian, Thai, and other similar international fare is some of your best bang for your buck when it comes to eating out. I’ve listed many of these restaurants further below in this section.

Pack A Supermarket Picnic

The cheapest way to eat is to shop at one of London’s many supermarkets. The best budget-friendly grocery stores are Tesco , Sainsbury’s , and Coop. If you’re looking for something a little more upscale then check out Marks & Spencers and Waitrose .

Takeaway Is Cheaper

Takeaway meals are taxed at a lower rate so they’re always cheaper than dining in.

Supermarkets Sell Cheap Salads and Sandwiches

Just about every supermarket will sell pre-made sandwiches and salads that are reasonably affordable. You can also stock up on cheap drinks, fruit, and snacks while you’re there. Most supermarkets will have “meal deals” that consists of a sandwich, bottle of water, and some chips for around £5.

Skip The Soda

Thanks to high taxes on sugary drinks, soda ends up being super expensive.

Don’t Overtip

In many cases, the service fee is already included in the bill so there is no need to tip extra. If your bill doesn’t mention a service fee then 10% is fine.

Eat Your Way Through Borough Market

average london trip cost

Borough Market is a wholesale and retail food market hall in Southwark, London, England. In fact, it’s one of the largest and oldest food markets in London (there has been some form of a market on this site since the 12th century). There are also a number of food stalls selling prepared food or you can pick up fresh produce and baked goods.

  • See List Of All The Trader and Food Sellers

Visit The Food Stalls At Camden Market

average london trip cost

Camden Market has become one of the must-visit spots in London thanks to its 1000 shops and stalls selling clothing, music, art, and food.

It has around 100 food stalls and restaurants serving up just about everything. I’ll admit that you’re probably paying a bit of a premium here but it’s a fun atmosphere and experience.

  • See List Of All Dining Options

Visit KERB, The Hip Street Food Market

KERB is a multi-location street market located throughout London. The offerings at KERB tend to be a bit more innovative than other markets so you can find lots of interesting offerings here.

  • Visit Their Website

Eat At Street Feasts

Street Feasts is another street food company that runs multiple street food markets in London.

Chow Down on Fish and Chips

average london trip cost

London has a ton of spots to get fish and chips but a majority of them are either overpriced or just not very good. This places listed here have all been pre-vetted by our locals for being a good value for the money.

Fishcotheque

This traditional hole-in-the-wall joint is tucked under a bridge and serves up generous portions for a reasonable price. They’re a local favorite so it can get busy during lunch and dinner.

  • Order of Fish and Chips: £13

The Golden Hind Restaurant Marylebone

Another no-frills and much-loved mainstay with large portions (and long lines).

  • Order of Fish and Chips: £13-£16

Poppie’s Fish And Chips

Poppie’s is one of London’s most famous and popular chippy joints so you can’t really go wrong here. It’s a little more expensive but its quality is top-notch.

  • Order of Fish and Chips: £14-£18
  • See Locations on Google Maps

The Laughing Halibut

An old-school joint that’s always busy and popular with both locals and tourists. Prices are very reasonable for the super central area.

  • Order of Fish and Chips: £11-£13
  • See Location on Google

Opened in 1982, this bustling award-winning shop serves up some of the best traditional fish and chips in London. Dine-in or takeaway.

  • Order of Fish and Chips: £9.50-£12

Golden Union Fish Bar

Another super popular joint right in the middle of London. Expect to wait in line for about 20-30 minutes at this no-frills spot during the busy time but it’s worth the wait.

  • Order of Fish and Chips: £10

Gigs Fish & Chips

Opened in 1958, Gigs obviously knows what they’re doing if they’ve survived this long in a city that seems to have a chippy everywhere you look. 

  • Order of Fish and Chips: £8 (takeaway) – £14.50 (dine-in)

Masters Superfish

No-frills traditional joint with fresh and tasty fish and chips.

Start Your Day With An English Breakfast

average london trip cost

What’s the best way to fuel up for a full day of sightseeing? A full English breakfast — which is traditionally a plate full of bacon, sausages, eggs, black pudding, baked beans, tomatoes and mushrooms, toast that’s served with coffee or tea.

Well, it might put you in a food coma as well but this greasy fry-up won’t leave you hungry. These days a full English breakfast can range from low-frills to gourmet but we’re going to focus on a few local favorite spots.

Regency Cafe

Cheap, no-frills, delicious, and always busy (get there early to avoid a long wait). This authentic spot has been around since 1946 and is a local favorite.

  • Full English Breakfast: Starts at £6.00

A cool art-deco workers’ cafe that’s been serving up English breakfasts to hungry folks since 1900. Another super authentic local favorite.

  • Full English Breakfast: Starts at £8.40

Another local favorite with large portions at an affordable price.

  • Full English Breakfast: Starts at £5.50-£6

Terry’s Cafe

Old-school, family-run cafe. Quality food for a good price. A local favorite since 1982.

  • Full English Breakfast: Starts at £8.50-£12

Devour London’s Indian Cuisine Scene

London On A Budget - Cheap Indian Food

Outside of India, London is the best place to get excellent Indian food that spans multiple regions of India. London is also home to many high-end Indian restaurants but we’re going to focus on more budget-friendly options.

Expect long lines and excellent Bombay-style comfort food at this popular restaurant. The prices are fair, the atmosphere is buzzing, and the quality of food and drinks is excellent. Many people say this is their favorite Indian restaurant in London.

  • Main Dishes: £9-£13

Opened in 1972, this no-frills Punjabi restaurant is famous for their spicy dishes. It’s a popular spot so expect a wait.

  • Main Dishes: £7-£11

A popular spot for family-style Sri Lankan authentic cuisine. They’re also known for their cocktail menu.

Kricket SOHO

This lovely and hip Mumbai-style joint serves up modern tapas-style dishes and excellent cocktails. The staff is friendly and the prices are reasonable.

  • Main Dishes: £7-£12

Raavi Kebab

A favorite for Pakistani-style Punjabi food. No-frills but very authentic.

Gujarati Rasoi

This popular stall in Borough Market serves up classic Indian dishes to go.

  • Main Dishes: £7

Govinda’s Pure Vegetarian Restaurant

Govinda’s, which is linked to the Radha Krishna Temple, serves vegetarian and vegan Indian dishes and desserts at very affordable prices.

  • Main Dishes: £7-£14

Cafe Tiffin

This small Indian restaurant is another spot that has solid Indian dishes at a good price. It’s also BYOB so that’s another way to save a little cash.

  • Main Dishes: £8-£11

Grab Some Pizza

London on a Budget - Best Pizza

Pizza is always a good idea when you’re a hungry traveler looking to save a little cash. Here are some of London’s top pizza joints and many serve by the slice if you’re looking for something on the go.

Solid Italian-style pizza for a great value. 

  • Prices: £4.50-£7.50

Pizza Pilgrims

Another great option for excellent pizza at a great price. 

  • Prices: £6-£11

Franco Manca

Franco Manca has 50 locations in Italy and the UK and they serve up great sourdough Neapolitan pizza for a good price. 

  • Prices: £5-£10

Homeslice Pizza

Homeslice a multi-location pizza joint that’s most well-known for its giant 20″ pizzas and large single slices.

  • Prices: £4 (slice) & £20 (full pizza)

Pizza Union

Great authentic thin and crispy pizzas. 

  • Prices: £5-£8

More Budget-Friendly Restaurants in London

Cheap Food in London

I received so many excellent recommendations for cheap places to eat in London that I had a hard time categorizing them… so I decided to place them all in this section.

That’s why here you’ll find everything from British and French to Italian and Thai.

Goddards at Greenwich (British)

This traditional pie mash and liquor restaurant has been around since 1890 and they serve up handmade pie & mash daily at a fair price. They have some nice traditional British desserts as well.

  • Main Dishes: £4.50-£9

MotherMash (British)

This bustling cafe whips up tasty pies, sausages, and mash for a fair price. A good place to try some British comfort-food staples.

  • Main Dishes: £10

Padella (Italian/Pasta)

One of the most popular budget-friendly pasta spots in London. The pasta is all handmade in front of you and the quality is great for the price. Their takeaway pasta dishes range from around £5-£8.

  • Main Dishes: £5-£8

Flat Iron (Steakhouse)

This popular casual chain serves up a nice flat iron steak and a salad for £12 (sides are extra).

  • Main Dishes: £12

Super tasty NYC-style buttermilk-fried chicken sandwiches.

  • Main Dishes: £6-£11

Chik’n

Another fried-chicken sandwich joint.

  • Main Dishes: £6-£9

Hiba (Lebanese and Palestinian)

This family-run (the grandma is the head chef) Lebanese and Palestinian restaurant serves up excellent food for a fair price. Super friendly and welcoming. Lunch falafel/wrap deals start around £6.50.

  • Main Dishes: £6.50-£9

Lahore Kebab House (Pakistani)

Super popular Pakistani restaurant that’s famous for its kebabs and other grilled meats.

  • Main Dishes: £9-£11

Sông Quê Café (Vietnamese/Pho)

Excellent Vietnamese place to get authentic beef pho at a great price. Super popular so expect a line.

  • Main Dishes: £7.50-£10

Cafe East (Vietnamese)

Another super popular Vietnamese restaurant with excellent food and great prices.

  • Main Dishes: £9-£10

Bone Daddies (Japanese/Ramen)

This multi-location joint serves up excellent ramen in an ultra-hip atmosphere and has solid cocktails.

  • Main Dishes: £10-£13

Shoryu (Japanese/Ramen)

Another super popular multi-location Japanese joint serving handmade ramen in pork broth, plus sake and Japanese whiskies.

  • Main Dishes: £10-£14

Koya Bar (Japanese)

Compact Japanese spot famous for their Udon noodles.

Bibimbap Soho (Korean)

A great little Korean restaurant with tasty food (bibimbap & bento boxes, etc.) and good service.

Jin’s Kitchen (Korean)

This tiny budget-friendly takeaway snack bar serves up Korean fast food.

Franco Manco (Pizza)

This multi-location restaurant serves excellent wood-fired sourdough pizza at a great price.

  • Main Dishes: £5.50-£8

Le Mercury (French)

It’s not often you can find budget-friendly French food but that’s what you’ll find at Le Mercury. This neighborhood institution is always bustling thanks to its quality meals so you might want to book ahead.

  • Main Dishes: £12-£14

La Porchetta Pollo Bar (Italian)

A longtime unpretentious and cozy Italian restaurant with great pizza and pasta.

  • Main Dishes: £8-£13

Polop (Italian)

Excellent Venetian-style Italian cafe with small plates, good wines, and reasonable prices. Always busy for a reason.

  • Main Dishes: £7-£13

GReat Grill House (Greek)

Simple Greek spot with great gyros and other grilled meats.

  • Main Dishes: £5.50-£11

Fez Mangal (Turkish)

Tiny Turkish cafe with an open grill and excellent lamb & chicken kebabs.

  • Main Dishes: £5.50-£10

Comptoir Libanais (Lebanese)

Lovely vibe, lovely food, and lovely refreshments.

Patogh (Iranian/Persian)

Unfussy Iranian joint with grilled meat and fish.

What The Pitta (Vegan)

Super popular thanks to their excellent vegan kebabs — some say they’re better than non-vegan kebabs.

  • Main Dishes: £8-£12

Mildreds (Vegan)

Very popular vegetarian restaurant with an emphasis on organic, seasonal produce.

  • Main Dishes: £8-£14

Have A Pint In An Old Historic Pub

average london trip cost

London is home to thousands of pubs and a handful of them date back to 1600-1700s. You can certainly find “cheaper” places to get a beer but the awesome atmosphere is worth the minimal extra cost. Furthermore, most of these pubs will serve up classic British “pub grub” if you want a filling meal.

Here are some of the best historic London pubs:

  • The Black Friar  (est. 1875)
  • Cittie of Yorke  (est. 1920 but the buildings on the site have been pubs since 1430)
  • The Cross Keys  (est. 1840s  — highly recommended)
  • The French House  (est. 1891)
  • The George  (est. 1600s)
  • The Grapes  (est. 1583)
  • The Grenadier  (est. 1818 — highly recommended)
  • Hoop & Grapes  (One of the few timber buildings to escape the Great Fire of London in 1666)
  • Lamb & Flag  (est. 1620s and favorite of Charles Dickens — highly recommended)
  • The Mayflower  (est. 1600s — highly recommended)
  • The Nag’s Head  (est. 1800s)
  • The Old Bell  (est. 1600s)
  • The Prospect of Whitby  (est. 1520s)
  • The Seven Stars  (est. 1602)
  • The Spaniards Inn  (est. 1500s)
  • The Tipperary  (est. 1667)
  • The Viaduct  (est. 1865)
  • Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese (est. 1667 but a pub has been there since 1538 — highly recommended)
  • Ye Olde Mitre (est. 1546 — highly recommended)

Cheap Accommodation

London can be a killer when it comes to hotels, hostels, and rental apartments.

The Best Hostels in London

average london trip cost

London has more than 100 hostels — which makes it one of the best hostel cities in the world.  Visit  Hostelworld  to see them all.

Well-rated hostels generally cost between £25-£50/night for the cheapest bed option but you might be able to find a few that are around £20/night. Ultra-budget travelers can find something closer to £15 but don’t expect much quality. Prices do tend to be a bit more expensive on Friday and Saturday night for the weekend travel crowd.

Here are a few of the best hostel options:

  • Wombats City Hostel London
  • Astor Hyde Park
  • Astor Queensway
  • Barmy Badger Backpackers
  • MEININGER London Hyde Park
  • Generator London

Want to learn more? Read our guide to the  Best Hostels in London and check out my Hostel Packing List .

Airbnb & Airbnb Alternatives

London has a healthy stock of short term rental apartments which will offer more space at a similar/cheaper price than you’ll find in a hotel. In addition, an apartment can be a great option for large families or for groups traveling together.

The main rental is Airbnb so I suggest starting there.

You can expect to pay €150-€250/night for a modest studio or one-bedroom apartment in the center of London. Obviously, the prices go up if you want something nicer or with more space but you can save quite a bit if you don’t mind staying outside of central London.

Check Airbnb to get an idea of current prices as they also fluctuate based on the time of year you’re traveling. I’ve also written a guide to Airbnb alternatives if you’re looking for different options.

Explore London On A Santander Cycle

average london trip cost

London is a bike-friendly city so you’ll find plenty of protected bike lanes. And thanks to the Santander Cycle bike share system , for £2 you can get unlimited journeys up to 30 minutes, within a 24 hour period and there are stations all over the city.

Save Money Going To/From The Airports

average london trip cost

Traveling between London’s multiple airports and the city center can be expensive. Here are a few of the different options for each airport.

  • You can take the London Underground between the airport and the city for around £6. The ride takes around an hour. The Heathrow Express only takes 15 minutes but it’s more expensive at £22 — however, you can often pre-book well in advance and get a ticket as low as £6.
  • There is a National Express bus that costs £6 and takes anywhere from 40-90 minutes depending on traffic.
  • A taxi will set you back around £80 and will take around 45-60 minutes.
  • The National Rail offers a train from Gatwick into central London which takes between 30-45 minutes and tickets run between £10-£20.
  • The Gatwick Express costs £20 and the trip takes 30 minutes.
  • The National Express bus costs £8 but can take nearly two hours because of traffic.
  • The Stansted Express costs £17 takes around 45 minutes.
  • There are a handful of different bus services ( Airport Bus Express and EasyBus ) that all take around 60-90 minutes and cost £6-£10.
  • National Rail has train service that costs £15 and it takes around 45 minutes.
  • There is bus service that costs £5-£10 and takes around 90 minutes.

General Budget Travel Tips

average london trip cost

Here are a few more budget-travel related articles I’ve written that will help you save money while visiting London.

Get Strategic With Your Sightseeing

A little planning goes a long way when you visit London. Here are a few simple things you can do to save yourself a lot of time, money, and frustration:

  • Segment Sightseeing By Location: London is a large city so group your sightseeing by location so you don’t waste time visiting attractions that are spread out.
  • Overextending Yourself: London has so much to see but you can’t see it all. Unfortunately, many people try to see too much and end up getting burnt out. In my opinion, it’s better to spend more time seeing less so you can actually absorb the experience… and you spend less as well.
  • Have An Idea Where To Eat: One of the quickest ways to bust your budget is by eating and we all tend to eat anywhere once we’re hungry. So jot down a few places to eat before you head out for the day.
  • Research Hours: Don’t forget to check the hours of the attractions you want to visit since most places are closed at least one day a week.

Skip The Tube For Short Walking Distances

Since riding the London Underground is fairly expensive, it’s best to walk if the distances are reasonable. In general, if you’re going less than three stops it’s often faster to walk anyways (the Tube map makes distances between stations appear much further apart than they actually are).

Plus, walking lets you actually see the city.

Avoid/Limit Credit Card and Debit Card Fees

Credit card fees and ATM withdrawal fees from your bank can quickly add up to hundreds of dollars before you know it. Check out my guide on Using Money In Europe: ATMs, Credit Cards, Debit Cards, Exchange Rates

Pick Your Travel Season

If you’re on a budget, you’ll be able to save a good amount on your accommodation and airfare if you visit during the offseason. That said, London is a popular year-round destination and the weather is mild, so price drops aren’t as large as you’d find in other cities.

Get Travel Insurance

Travel insurance helps you avoid many of those unexpected and costly things that can arise while traveling. For budget travelers, I prefer World Nomads since they’re affordable and easy to work with.

Reclaim The Value Added Tax (VAT)

Most goods in the UK include a tax (VAT) of around 20% but non-citizens aren’t required to pay this tax. It’s kind of a pain to get the money back but if you make a few large purchases you could get a decent amount back.

To get your money back you’ll have to visit the office at the airport. The process can take a few hours since a lot of people do it and the office isn’t staffed with enough employees to process claims quickly.

General Ways To Save on Food and Drink

I’ve already covered many of the best budget restaurants in London in this article but here is a general guide about How to Eat and Drink on a Budget While Traveling in Europe

Save On Traveling England By Train

Is London just one city you’ll be visiting in England? Check out my England Train Guide for ways to save money while using the UK train system.

Packing Advice and Packing Lists

What you should you pack when you visiting London (and beyond)? I got you covered.

  • Backpacking Europe Packing List
  • Travel Europe Packing List for Women
  • Europe Packing List  (for any travel style)
  • Hostel Packing List
  • Ultralight Travel Packing List
  • Winter Packing List for Europe
  • Best Travel Backpacks  
  • Best Travel Backpacks for Women
  • Best Carry-On Backpacks
  • Recent Posts
  • The Best Travel Backpacks | In-Depth Buyer’s Guide & Backpack Reviews - April 28, 2024
  • Best Prepaid UK eSIM | Data Plan Buyer’s Guide - April 21, 2024
  • How to Avoid Pickpockets in Europe — Tips for Outsmarting the Thieves - April 19, 2024

average london trip cost

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How to Budget for a Trip to London

by Megan Mattingly-Arthur

Published on 1 Jan 2021

London is England's thriving capital city and the largest metropolitan area in the United Kingdom. Home to such iconic attractions as the Tower of London, Big Ben and Buckingham Palace, London attracts approximately 15 million international visitors each year, according to Visit England's London Tourism Statistics report. Though London has a reputation for being an expensive city to visit, carefully budgeting for airfare, accommodations, meals, transportation and attraction entrance fees will give you peace of mind and help you better enjoy your trip.

Plan to spend between $1,000 and $2,500 for round-trip airfare from the United States to London. The cost of the ticket varies dramatically depending on the season and whether you're flying coach, business or first class. London's peak tourist season is June through mid-October, according to Fodor's. Save money and beat the crowds by visiting London in the spring and flying coach class.

Decide what type of accommodations you want during your stay in London. Choices range from small backpacker hostels that average between $12 and $24 per person, per night, to luxury hotels that cost more than $300 per night. Note that though these prices are listed in U.S. dollars, British pounds will be used when booking accommodations and other travel considerations. Consider booking your hotel reservations when you arrange your flight; some travel agencies and websites offer discounts for booking both at the same time.

Set aside plenty of money to cover your meals in London. Plan for at least three meals and two snacks per day. Pubs and cafes generally offer the best value for money, with meals ranging between $10 and $25. Expect to pay $180 or more per person for a three course dinner in a fine dining restaurant, such as Gordon Ramsay's signature restaurant on Royal Hospital Road.

Decide which London attractions you want to visit when planning your attractions budget. London offers many free attractions, including the National Portrait Gallery, the British Museum and the Tate Modern art gallery. Admission to other popular attractions, such as the Tower of London and London Zoo, runs between $20 and $30 per person.

Budget money for transportation in and around London. London has a comprehensive public transportation system that includes a subway, buses, trams and light rail to help you get around the city. Pay around $5 for a single fare or purchase a one-day public transportation travel pass for approximately $16. Note that taxis are also available; fares vary based on time of day, distance traveled and journey time.

Don't forget to budget for souvenirs. Keep in mind that tourist shop T-shirts range between $20 and $30 each.

Stay at a hostel or hotel that offers free continental breakfast to shave a few dollars from your meal budget.

Consider buying the London Pass, which offers free admission to many popular attractions and discounts on transportation passes.

Remember that the U.S. dollar and British pound do not convert dollar for dollar. Though conversation rates vary, plan to spend up to $2 for each pound.

Taxis in London are expensive, starting at a minimum fare of approximately $5.

All prices mentioned in the article were valid at the time of publication.

Money We Have

Accommodations

London is a very large city, and you need to take that into consideration when choosing your accommodations. Understand, the busier and more popular areas will be more expensive because they are more central. While it may be enticing to book something further out of the city, remember that you also need to add in travel time (which can be chaotic during peak rush hours) as well as transportation costs which can be pricey as well.

If you do plan on doing a lot of site-seeing, it’s worth your money to stay somewhere central that you can easily walk around from. That said, staying in zone 2 of the London tube map Is usually cheaper than zone 1 and still convenient.

With that in mind, I’m basing the estimate for the budget based on a hotel in Victoria, which is home to a large metro station that also conveniently connects to Gatwick Airport, plus this area has a range of accommodation options for different budgets. To give you an idea, a midrange hotel in this part of the city is about $200 per night.  

Looking for some recommendations in the area? Try one of the following:

Budget   London accommodations

  • Astor Victoria Hotel  
  • PubLove @ The White Ferry, Victoria

Midrange   London accommodations

  • B&B Belgravia
  • Park International Hotel

Luxury   London accommodations

  • St. James’ Court, A Taj Hotel, London
  • Amba Hotel Grosvenor

If you have the right credit card, you can save a fair amount of money on hotels. Americans should strongly consider the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card since you can earn up to 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy points and $300 back at U.S. restaurants as a welcome bonus . Canadians should consider the Marriott Bonvoy American Express , which gives you up to 75,000 Marriott Bonvoy points. That’s enough points for a few free nights at some hotels, which could easily have a value of over $500.

Local transportaion

As mentioned above, London is a big city so you will absolutely need to use local transportation to get around. Renting a car is unnecessary. Your best bet is to use public transit. Either the bus system or the London Underground, ‘the Tube’.

To use public transit, you can buy a local transportation card known as an ‘Oyster Card.’ There is a 5GBP fee associated with buying the card (about $6) and then you will need to load it. You can easily re-load the card as needed. So if you want to only start with about 30GBP ($36), you can. You can also get any leftover money back at the end of the trip if you load too much.

To be realistic, unless you’re staying outside of Zone 2, you won’t venture further out unless you have a specific reason to do so. For example, Heathrow Airport is in Zone.

As a general rule, always try to travel off-peak as your costs will be lower.

How much does it cost to go to london aerial

Attractions

London has a lot to see and do. From simple sightseeing to see the architecture and buildings including Big Ben, Parliament, and St. Paul’s Cathedral, to attractions and museums, theatre shows and day trips, this is an area where you can definitely spend a lot. So your best bet is to do some research ahead of time and pick and choose wisely.

Some of the most popular paid attractions include:

  • The London Eye
  • Warner Bros. studio tour
  • St. Paul’s Cathedral
  • Westminster Abbey
  • The Tower of London
  • Churchill War Rooms

The good news is London has lots of great things to see and do for free . There are some very walkable areas including Covent Gardens, along the Thames, around Picadilly Circus, Hyde Park, that are all free to wander and look at. There are also plenty of free London museums including the National Gallery, the Science Museum, Tate Britain, The British Museum and more.

If these types of things are more along your line of interest, then you don’t have to budget much for attractions at all. However, if you are coming to London for Broadway shows, to go to Warner Brothers Studio for the Harry Potter Tour, and plan on taking day trips to see sites such as Stonehenge , well then your budget for attractions is going to have to be pretty generous.

If you fall somewhere in the middle, budget about $200 for attractions. You may have to add to this with your random spending fund or you may have some left over. But London definitely has a lot of great things to see and do, some of which are absolutely worth the money.

Food and drink

Food and drink are not cheap in London, but you can find affordable meals. If you are looking to eat on a budget, you’ll find plenty of great options (and not just in terms of grocery stores). From the borough market to Camden, to the market at Brick Lane, you can find some amazing eats for only a few dollars.

That said, there are also plenty of upscale options, including afternoon tea at a luxury hotel or a meal at a fine dining establishment. Oh, and of course, we can’t forget the English pubs which fall in the middle.

When it comes to food, London has it all. I’d say you can easily get away with spending the following:

  • Breakfast – $10
  • Lunch – $15
  • Dinner – $35 

Which is equal to about $60 per day. As mentioned above, this can be increased or lowered depending on what you want to eat and your budget. My estimates for breakfast and lunch and for quick takeout meals or a sandwich. You could easily spend more on dinner if you’re eating at a restaurant every day.

how much does it cost to go to london southbank

Random spending

As usual, I recommend having a bit of extra money set aside for random spending. This could be souvenirs or a couple of drinks at a night out, maybe an extra day trip or even cab fare. Since London is an expensive city, I suggest putting aside at least an extra $150 dedicated to random spending.

If you’re from a city that doesn’t have many international brands, you may spend a lot on shopping. The first time I came to London, I spend $300 on clothes alone.

Final thoughts

So how much does it cost to go to London? Based on my estimates, you can expect to pay about US $2,715 per person for one week in the capital of England. It’s not a cheap city by any means, but it is a lot of fun with plenty to see and do. For more inspiration, check out my guides to Rome , Dubai , Iceland , Croatia , Canada , Disneyland , Austria and Germany .

average london trip cost

About Barry Choi

Barry Choi is a Toronto-based personal finance and travel expert who frequently makes media appearances. His blog Money We Have is one of Canada’s most trusted sources when it comes to money and travel. You can find him on Twitter: @barrychoi

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Vacations in London

Vacations in London

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Cheap London package deals

Most popular london flight and hotel deals, all inclusive vacation packages to london, last minute vacation packages to london, search by stars, search by review score, search by board, search by price, search by freebies, when to book a vacation in london, tips for finding london package deals.

  • There are loads of types of vacations in London and the cost will depend on what type of trip you’re taking and for how long you’d like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travelers: Top vacation $585; Family vacation $508; Romantic vacation $683; Luxury vacation $648; Budget vacation $360.

Why should you book a vacation package to London?

A time and money saving vacation package is the smartest way to enjoy London. It's generally more expensive to reserve rooms and book flights separately, so doing so simultaneously means better rates. Plus, you won't waste time matching room availability to flight times when you opt for London vacation deals.

When should you book a vacation package to London?

You'll normally find the cheapest London packages between November and January when average temperatures range from 39.2 to 48.2F. Beat the crowds and save money by choosing May and catch events like the Chelsea Flower Show or the Museums at Night festival. Although it's peak season, good London travel deals can still be found from June until September. Plan your trip to coincide with top sporting events like Wimbledon or music festivals like BST Hyde Park.

Where should you stay in London during your vacation?

For any vacation type in london:.

Located in fashionable Clerkenwell, The Rookery is a smart choice for vacations in London. This chic but friendly hotel is under one hour from Heathrow by London Underground and well connected by train and bus to other main airports.

Try London Wembley International Hotel if you're looking for versatile London package deals. Ideally placed for music and sporting events at London's famous Wembley Stadium and Wembley Arena, the hotel is also easily reached by taxi, bus or train from the main airports.

For family vacations in London:

The Premier Inn London Hampstead is just 2 minutes from Hampstead Heath, 10 minutes by tube from the West End and Oxford Circus, and easy to reach from all London airports. Take the tube to Hampstead from Heathrow or the overland train service to Paddington Station before completing your journey by taxi.

Little Bullocks Farm in Stansted, Essex enjoys a quiet rural setting and offers excellent four star service. Plus, it's just 6 minutes by taxi from Stansted Airport and easy to reach from central London via Liverpool Street Station.

For romantic vacations in London:

With its prime location on Piccadilly and opulent rooms and suites, the Ritz London is a great choice for couples searching for romantic London travel packages. Take a taxi from the airport to arrive in style or board trains at all four main airports.

Although it's located in the heart of London's vibrant West End, the Sanderson is a calm and tranquil base for couples. Noted for its luxurious decor and excellent services, the hotel is easy to reach from any London airport by rail or taxi.

For luxury vacations in London:

The Sheraton Grand is one of London's most elegant hotels. Located in upmarket Mayfair, the famous art deco building occupies a prime spot on Park Lane. Upon arrival at the airport you can take a taxi directly to the hotel or hop a train to central London.

Opt for trendy Chelsea and the stylish Sloane Square Hotel for a memorable London getaway. It's just a short walk from the famous Saatchi Gallery and is easy to reach by taxi or train from any of London's airports. Sloane Square station is nearby for those traveling via the underground from Heathrow Airport.

For budget vacations in London:

The Astor Museum Hostel is a friendly hostel right next to the British Museum. Just a few minutes walk from Oxford Street, the hotel can be reached by underground from Heathrow or by rail or bus from other London airports.

Looking for inexpensive London package deals? Try Villa Verde Gatwick, a friendly and comfortable hotel just a few minutes by taxi or shuttle bus from Gatwick Airport.

Where to stay in London

London vacation information, other popular package vacation destinations.

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Thrifty Londoner

Cheap London Travel- Reduce The Cost Of Travel

cheap-London-travel

At first glance, cheap London travel almost seems impossible. With a single tube journey paper ticket costing £4.90- the cost seems out of reach. BUT there are lots of ways that you can reduce the cost of travelling in London, whether you are a regular commuter or you are visiting the city.

First thing’s first- never buy the aforementioned paper ticket! That £4.90 tube journey will cost just £2.40 for a zone 1 single journey using an Oyster card or contactless payment.

Not only will using an Oyster card or contactless payment card mean that your journey is cheaper, but it will also make your journey quicker as you’ll avoid the lengthy queues at the ticket machines.

Page Contents

Cheap London Travel

Not even born and raised Londoners will know the best kept secrets about cheap London travel. The pricing system is pretty complex, so you have to do some digging to find out how to save money on travel in London, but the rewards are worth it! Luckily, this post lays out most of them for you…

average london trip cost

Is it cheaper to use an Oyster card or contactless?

So we’ve established that you’ll want to use an Oyster card or contactless payment rather than a paper ticket. But is there a cost difference between Oyster and contactless?

Oyster Card Benefits

All told, an Oyster card can be cheaper than contactless payment as you are able to add a railcard to your Oyster card which saves you a third on off-peak travel. But if you don’t have a railcard? The prices are the same.

To add your railcard to your Oyster card, all you need to do is go to an underground station and ask the clerk to add it onto your Oyster for you- it only takes a minute or two.

If you’re a student living in London, you are likely to be eligible for the 18+ Student Oyster which offers some great discounts. With this card you can get 30% off the price of adult-rate Travelcards and Bus & Tram Pass season tickets. Check if you are eligible for the card on the TFL Website .

Contactless Benefits

If you use contactless payment for your journey (whether that’s a payment card or Apple Pay), you do benefit from Monday-Sunday capping, which you don’t get with an Oyster card.

The cap for journeys made Mon-Sun in zones 1-2 is £34.10 with a contactless card – whereas seven daily caps on an Oyster card come to £47.60.

You might also enjoy: What Is The Average Cost Of Living In London?

Where can I get an Oyster card?

If you’re visiting London, you can get an Oyster card at any tube station with a ticket office. An Oyster card will cost you £5, which acts as a deposit. You can get the £5 refunded to you when you return the Oyster card after your visit.

average london trip cost

Do kids travel for free on the tube?

Kids under the age of 11 can travel for free on the bus, tram, DLR, overground and tube when accompanied by an adult. How’s that for some cheap London travel?

For kids aged 11-15, apply for a Zip Oyster card which will allow free travel on buses and trams, and a children’s rate on other services.

If you are visiting London with children who don’t have an 11-15 Zip Oyster photocard, they can get discounted travel for up to 14 days with the Young Visitor discount. This can be applied to any standard Oyster card and offers a 50% discount on adult fares.

For children aged 16-17, there is another Zip Oyster available which again offers free travel on buses and trams, and a 50% discount on adult fares.

How much does commuting in London cost?

The average London commuter spends around £122 a month on travelling to work. And if you commute into London for work? The average cost is around £305 a month.

This accounts for a huge portion for many Londoners’ monthly wage, so if there is a way to reduce the cost of travel in London, it’s well worth doing.

You might also enjoy: How To Live On A Budget In London

Cheapest way to commute in London

The cheapest way to commute in London is of course on foot, but that isn’t always possible. If you’re working in central London it’s unlikely that you are going to find an affordable flat nearby.

However, it’s worth considering moving closer to work if it means that your commuting costs might go down. Check out my guide on how to find an affordable apartment in London , which goes into more detail about how moving closer to work can sometimes pay off.

Take the bus

The next cheapest way to commute is probably going to be by bike, followed closely by the bus. Bus fares in London are generally cheaper than the tube, and also benefit from the Hopper Fare . The Hopper Fare means that any second bus or tram journey made within one hour of the start of your first journey will be free, if you’re using an Oyster card or contactless payment.

Buy a season ticket

If there’s no way round it, and you have to commute by train or tube, you will make large savings if you buy an annual season ticket.

The problem with a season ticket, is that the upfront cost is large- often thousands of pounds. However, there are a couple of ways around this cost.

Check if your employer offers an interest-free season ticket loan. This works on the basis that your employer will pay for the upfront cost of your season ticket, and then deduct the repayments from your monthly salary in 10 or 12 instalments.

This means that you get the cost saving benefit of a season ticket, but you pay for it monthly instead.

You might also enjoy: The Cheapest Place To Park In Central London

average london trip cost

How can I make my commute cheaper?

Travel off-peak.

If you’re able to work flexible hours, you could save money on your commute by avoiding travel during peak times. Off-peak travel could cost up to 50% less than peak travel.

Peak time is between 6.30am and 9.30am or between 4pm and 7pm. However it is important to note that these peak times can vary slightly depending on the mode of travel and route you take. Compare prices using the TFL Fare Finder .

Remember, if you travel off-peak and use a railcard, you could save a further 30% off your journey. This would considerably reduce the cost of your commute.

Avoid zone 1

If you are able to avoid zone 1 when commuting, this could make your journey cheaper. There are a number of pink Oyster card readers, and when you tap this with your card, it will recognise that you have not gone through zone 1 to get to your destination.

For a list of stations with pink Oyster card readers, head to the TFL website .

average london trip cost

Get organised

If you want to buy a season ticket, make sure that you buy it before the prices go up for the year ahead. Usually rail prices increase yearly in early January, so make sure that you get organised and buy your season ticket BEFORE the prices increase.

Reassess your route

Use apps like Citymapper to check if there is a different way to commute to the office. Perhaps you could take a couple of buses instead of the tube? Or maybe you could spend more time walking and combine this with a train journey?

For lots of people there will be several different modes of transport that you’ll be able to take to get into work- work out which one is the cheapest, and go from there.

average london trip cost

Travelling in London is only going to get more expensive as the prices go up each year, but these alternative ideas are likely to help reduce your commuting costs and save you some money.

Here are some key things to remember, whether you’re a visitor or a commuter looking for cheap London travel:

  • Never buy a paper ticket
  • Add your rail card to your Oyster card (if you have one)
  • Avoid travelling to zone 1 by tube
  • Switch the tube for the bus to make a saving

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Cost of Living in Houston: A Comprehensive Guide 2023

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Cost of living in Houston

Live well without breaking the bank

Hey there! Have you ever wondered what money can't buy that brings true happiness? Well, it's not the most important thing in the world, as some might say. Yes, you guessed it right, we're talking about money. Of course, it's essential to make life comfortable and easy, but it's not everything. Especially when it comes to the cost of living in Houston, it can be a significant factor. As a student, it's essential to consider various factors to find an affordable place to live comfortably. Don't worry. We've got you covered! We have broken down the cost of living in Houston tx to give you an idea of what to expect from the city, and we're here to make it easier for you. 

About Houston

Houston is a vibrant and bustling city in Texas, and it can be an exciting place for students. There are several prestigious universities and colleges in Houston, including the University of Houston, Rice University , and Houston Baptist University , among others. These universities offer a range of academic programs, from business and engineering to arts and sciences, providing students with a variety of options to choose from. Houston is a relatively affordable city, with a lower cost of living compared to other major cities in the United States. However, the cost of living can vary depending on the neighbourhood and lifestyle. As a student, it's essential to consider the cost of housing, transportation, and other expenses when planning your budget. In addition to academics, Houston is known for its thriving arts scene, with world-class museums, galleries, and performance venues. Overall, Houston is an exciting and dynamic city for students, offering a range of academic, cultural, and social opportunities.

What is the average cost of living in Houston?

Being one of the major cities in Texas, the Houston living cost is surely higher than in other cities but is not as high compared to Austin and Dallas. When calculating the average cost of living in Houston, you have to take various factors and variables into consideration, like rent, utility bills, grocery prices, transportation rates, and many other things. From your daily expenses to monthly bills, everything affects your living expenses in Houston. You can consider the average Houston living cost as a student to be approximately $1500 monthly without accommodation rent included.

Common expenses and how to save on them

Now let's get down to the proper breakdown of the cost of living in Houston tx for students. We are going to list down the common expenses that you will have every month while living in this amazing city and give you a proper price range that you can expect to spend depending on your needs and even provide you with some tips on how to save some money on them!

1. Food and groceries

When discussing the cost of living in Houston, it's crucial to take into account the expenses related to food and groceries. Predicting these costs can be difficult, as they tend to vary depending on a person's individual circumstances. However, as a general rule, students can expect to spend an average of $17-75 per month on meals.

How can you save on your food expenses?

Reducing your food expenses can be a tricky task. While the most affordable option would be to stop eating altogether, that is neither practical nor advisable. Instead, one way to cut costs is by preparing healthy, quick meals at home. Dining out can quickly eat into your budget, so cooking at home can be a cost-effective alternative. Though incorporating cooking into your daily routine may seem challenging at first, with practice, it can become more manageable and even enjoyable. If you're in need of some inspiration, our blog offers easy recipes for college students to try out.

2. Student Travel in Houston 

For students living near Houston, travel is one of their primary day-to-day activities, whether it's commuting from their student accommodation or exploring places around the universities. Luckily, Houston has an excellent public transportation system, with the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (METRO) being the primary transportation agency. Other options include I-610 , State Highway 288 , and the METROBus system.

1. The METRORail: It is a smooth and accessible transportation option within the heart of Houston. One-day pass costs around $3 . The METROBus system offers local and park-and-ride services. The fare ranges from $2 to $4.50 depending on travel distance.

2. B-Cycle : It is a low-cost bike program which allows users to check out a bike. For 30 minutes, it costs around $3, whereas monthly subscriptions cost $13 . Biking is a sustainable option that reduces traffic and air congestion. Maps of stations and other details are available on their website.

How can you save on travel costs?

If you're looking to save money on travel, there are several strategies you can use to cut costs. One of the most effective ways is to plan ahead. By booking your travel in advance, you can often find lower prices for transportation, such as flights, buses, or trains. Additionally, you can compare prices and find the best deals. Public transportation is usually more affordable than driving, taking taxis, or using ride-sharing services. Consider using buses, trains, or subways to get around. Many cities have public transportation systems that offer discounted passes or tickets, so be sure to check for these options.

3. Student accommodation costs‍

Houston is a vibrant city with several colleges and universities, which means that there are plenty of options for student accommodations in Houston . Renting student accommodation in Houston can be a daunting experience but don’t worry. We will make the process easier. When comparing student accommodations, it's important to consider factors like availability, cost, and location. In general, Houston has a good range of options for student accommodations, including on-campus dorms, off-campus apartments, homestays, and shared houses. Students usually prefer Houston apartments, though. Compared to London, where student accommodation is notoriously expensive, student accommodation in Houston offers more affordable options for students. The rent will decrease significantly as you move away from the campus. By taking advantage of the complimentary on-site facilities provided by amber , such as PBSA , such as internet, meals, laundry, fitness centre, and cleaning services, you can save a substantial amount of money.

How can you save on student accommodation costs?

To reduce your cost of living in Houston, choose affordable student accommodations, use public transportation, cook your meals, take advantage of free events and activities, and look for student discounts. These strategies require some planning and effort but can help you live comfortably in the city on a budget.

4. Utilities

When considering the cost of living in Houston tx, it's important to factor in the expenses for basic utilities, which are essential for maintaining a comfortable home. Depending on your location and usage, these utilities, including hot water, electricity, heating, and cooling, can range from approximately $165 per month. Additionally, if you require WiFi services, you may expect to pay around $72 per month, depending on the package you select.

How can you save on utilities?

Embracing minimalism can help you save a significant amount of money. By adopting a minimalist lifestyle, you can reduce your expenses while still prioritising your essential needs. Additionally, sharing a flat with friends can also be a cost-effective solution to reduce expenses such as utilities, which are typically charged per household rather than per individual. This way, you can split the cost and save money on these essential expenses.

Planning to move to Houston? Check out some of the best student accommodations!

Book through amber today!

5. Miscellaneous expenses

As a student, your miscellaneous expenses can have a substantial impact on your overall cost of living in Houston. These expenses may include things like a gym membership, shopping, sightseeing, attending museums, and going to athletic events. The actual amount you spend on these expenses may vary based on your individual choices and preferences. However, setting aside a rough estimate of around $50-$150 per month should be sufficient to cover these miscellaneous expenses.

How can you cut down on these expenses?‍

As a student living in Houston, you can save money on housing by choosing accommodation further from campus or by sharing a flat with roommates. You can also save on transportation costs by using public transportation like METRO or biking with the B-Cycle program. To save on food expenses, you can cook meals at home instead of eating out, buy groceries in bulk, and take advantage of student discounts. Additionally, adopting a minimalist lifestyle can significantly reduce your overall expenses. To save on utilities, try to use energy-efficient appliances and limit your consumption of water, electricity, heating, and cooling.

6. Tuition Fees

To begin with, the most significant expense you'll likely have is your tuition fees, which can vary based on the college and the program you've enrolled in.

University of Houston 

The University of Houston (UH) is a public research university located in Houston, Texas, USA. Founded in 1927, it is the third-largest university in Texas with over 47,000 students enrolled in undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. The university offers over 300 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in a wide range of fields, including business, engineering, education, nursing, social sciences, natural sciences, and the arts.

Rice University

Rice University is a private research university located in Houston, Texas, USA. It was founded in 1912 and is consistently ranked among the top 20 universities in the United States. Rice is known for its strong undergraduate programs in the sciences, engineering, humanities, and social sciences, as well as its graduate programs in business, architecture, and music. The campus is home to a number of notable research centres, including the Baker Institute for Public Policy and the BioScience Research Collaborative.

How can you save on tuition fees?

Tuition costs at schools are predetermined, but there are ways to reduce the overall cost if you choose to enrol in one. Applying for scholarships is an effective method to achieve this goal. To see if your university offers any scholarship opportunities, you can inquire with the institution. Additionally, you may also apply for government-sponsored scholarships. Houston offers some of the top scholarships. 

Types Of Scholarships In Houston

Some of the top scholarships in Houston are: 

  • Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Scholarship : This scholarship is awarded to high school seniors in the Houston area who have demonstrated academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement. The scholarship is worth up to $20,000 and is renewable for up to four years. 
  • Texas Grant : The Texas Grant is a need-based scholarship awarded by the state of Texas to eligible undergraduate students who are Texas residents. The scholarship provides up to $5,000 per year to cover tuition and fees at public colleges and universities in Texas.
  • Houston Community College Foundation Scholarships : The Houston Community College Foundation offers a variety of scholarships to students enrolled at Houston Community College. The scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, financial need, and other factors.
  • Rice Investment : Rice University's new financial aid initiative, which provides full-tuition scholarships to students from families with incomes up to $130,000 and partial-tuition scholarships to families with incomes up to $200,000.
  • University of Houston Tier One Scholarship : This scholarship is awarded to high-achieving students who have been admitted to the University of Houston. The scholarship provides up to $20,000 per year and is renewable for up to four years.

average london trip cost

In conclusion, managing your expenses as a student in Houston is crucial to living a comfortable and stress-free life. Don't be afraid to be creative and try new things to save money, whether it's cooking at home, carpooling with friends, or taking advantage of student discounts. With a little bit of effort and planning, you can enjoy all that Houston has to offer without breaking the bank. Good luck and happy budgeting! 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is houston's cost of living more expensive than new york's, how would you rate houston's weather, what is the houston average salary, what are the greatest jobs in houston for students, what is the standard price range for student housing in houston.

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  1. What a Trip to London Costs in 2023

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  2. Is London Expensive? London Trip Cost Guide in 2024

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  3. How Much Does a Trip to London Cost? (2023 London Trip Budget

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  4. How much does a London trip cost? We have your London budget planning

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  5. 💲 What a Trip to London Costs in 2023

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  6. What a Trip to London Costs in 2023

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COMMENTS

  1. London Travel Cost

    A two week trip to London on average costs around $3,305 (£2,653) for one person and $6,610 (£5,306) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing. Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the ...

  2. How Much Does it Cost to Visit London in 2024? [Cost Calculator]

    Average Cost to Visit London. The average price of a 7-day summer trip to London is $4,000 for a solo traveler, $5,600 for a couple, and $9,100 for a family, with the main components of cost being (1) flights, (2) hotels/accommodation, and (3) meals. In 2024, flights range from about $815 in the off-season to over $1400 during the peak, summer ...

  3. Is London Expensive? London Trip Cost Guide in 2024

    While London is one of the most expensive cities in the world, it is possible to visit on a budget with an average trip to London costing £75-245 per day (roughly $95-310 USD). You can budget at the lower end if you're staying in budget accommodation, cooking your own meals and visiting mainly free attractions.

  4. London Price Guide

    Average Daily Cost For Visiting London. It costs around £60-£95/day ($75-$115) to visit London comfortably as a budget traveler. These prices are based on what you'll need to visit the city comfortably as a budget traveler. ... Daily Cost of Budget Travel in London: £92 (Approx. $115) Attractions: £20 (one paid attraction + any free ...

  5. How Much Does a Trip to London Cost? (2024 London Trip Budget)

    If you have seven days in London, a day trip or two out of the city is fun. Train tickets to places like Oxford, Windsor, or Bath usually price out around $40-60 per person roundtrip. Be sure to book in advance for the best rates. If you decide to hire a driver, expect costs to be $500-1,000 for a full day of service.

  6. What a Trip to London Costs in 2024

    An average one-week trip to London for two people may cost up to $6,600 in 2024. Average Accommodation Cost: $320 per night. Average Flight Cost: $1,200 per person. Food, Drink, & Activities: $120 per person, per day. Transportation: $280.

  7. Cost of a Trip to London, GB & the Cheapest Time to Visit London

    The average price of a 7-day trip to London is $2,002 for a solo traveler, $3,596 for a couple, and $6,741 for a family of 4. London hotels range from $77 to $351 per night with an average of $148, while most vacation rentals will cost $280 to $590 per night for the entire home. ... Average worldwide flight costs to London City Airport are ...

  8. The Cost of Travel in London: My 2024 Budget Breakdown

    Prices vary depending on the type of transport and how far you're going, but expect to pay $2.25/£1.75 for a bus ride (with free transfers for an hour) and $3.50/£2.70 for a single tube ride in zone one. Daily fare caps apply, so you won't pay more than $11/£8.50 per day for journeys in zone one and two.

  9. Easy London Budget Calculator: How Much Does it Cost to Visit London?

    London Trip Budget: Attractions and Day Trips. In my London budget calculator I have plugged in the current 2024 per person attraction ticket prices. Children's tickets are usually only a few pounds less. For the London Eye, for example, adult tickets are £38 and children's are £34. Not much difference.

  10. How Much Does a Trip to London Cost? (2024 real prices and data)

    For a 7 day return flight from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to London Heathrow (LHR) in June 2024, you're looking at an average price of $1,300, per person with taxes and fees. We selected a very basic economy seat departing June 9 and returning June 16, 2024 for a total of $1,305 on British Airways.

  11. Is London Expensive? 2022 Money Guide to the UK Capital

    The Average Cost of a Holiday to London Photo by twenty20photos on Envato Elements. ... Looking at the average costs for a one-week trip to London, a solo traveler can expect to spend around £1,014 ($1,720) including accommodation, food, and activities. This averages at around £1,800 ($2,362) for two people and as much as £5,136 ($6,741) for ...

  12. How Much Money You Need for a Week in London

    Aside from travel, the most expensive part of any trip to London is likely to be accommodation. An average three-star hotel in Central London typically costs around £140 ($180) per night. However, you can get a dorm in a hostel for as little as £20 ($25) a night or a luxury suite for £600 ($770) or more.

  13. London trip cost calculator

    Tripcost helps travelers plan their trip by estimating the travel budget needed for the desired trip. Over the year, our team have gathered travel costs from hundreds of independent resources. We know the price for a cup of coffee, a cinema ticket, a McMeal, a pint of local beer, a bus ticket, hotel night and hundreds more objects.

  14. Top tips for visiting London on a budget

    Basic hotel room for two: £100-200. Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): from £100. Daily transport travel card: £15.20. Cup of coffee: £2-6. Lunchtime sandwich: £3-8. Three-course restaurant dinner for two: from £80. A pint of beer at the bar: £4-8. Theatre ticket for a West End show: £25.

  15. How Much Does it Cost to Go to London

    Budget from £5 per day, per person (based on 2 zone 1 tube trips per day), plus the cost of getting to your hotel. Adult single fares within zone 1 cost £2.50, and a tube ticket from Heathrow to central London costs £5.50. Save cash by walking as much as you can and visiting attractions in the same area on the same day.

  16. London Prices: Is London Expensive or Cheap?

    Most pubs have similar prices regardless of the decor. Some of the chain pubs run happy hour specials which can be good value. 6.33 - 8.86. Fish and chips. London's classic tourist meal isn't always easy to find and it's usually quite expensive. 15.19 - 21.52.

  17. Guide To London On a Budget

    I'll take a much deeper dive into London budget travel costs throughout this article but I wanted to provide a quick overview to get started. You can also check out my London Price Guide. Budget-Friendly London Hotel, Hostel, and Rental Apartment Prices. Hostel Prices: £25-£55/night (for the cheapest option) Budget Hotel Prices: €80-€ ...

  18. How to Budget for a Trip to London

    Plan to spend between $1,000 and $2,500 for round-trip airfare from the United States to London. The cost of the ticket varies dramatically depending on the season and whether you're flying coach, business or first class. ... Choices range from small backpacker hostels that average between $12 and $24 per person, per night, to luxury hotels ...

  19. How Much Does it Cost to go to London?

    London trip cost. Estimated cost; Airfare: $700: Accommodations: $1,200: Local Transportation: $105: Attractions: $200: Food and Drink ... US $2,715; The above estimate is in American dollars, so please use xe.com to find out the average costs in your home currency. If you're Canadian, you may want to consider applying for one of the best ...

  20. London vacation packages from $475

    Tips for finding London package deals. There are loads of types of vacations in London and the cost will depend on what type of trip you're taking and for how long you'd like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travelers: Top vacation $585; Family vacation $508; Romantic vacation $683; Luxury vacation $648; Budget ...

  21. Cheap London Travel- Reduce The Cost Of Travel

    BUT there are lots of ways that you can reduce the cost of travelling in London, whether you are a regular commuter or you are visiting the city. First thing's first- never buy the aforementioned paper ticket! That £4.90 tube journey will cost just £2.40 for a zone 1 single journey using an Oyster card or contactless payment.

  22. Cost of Living in Houston: A Comprehensive Guide 2023

    B-Cycle: It is a low-cost bike program which allows users to check out a bike. For 30 minutes, it costs around $3, whereas monthly subscriptions cost $13. Biking is a sustainable option that reduces traffic and air congestion. Maps of stations and other details are available on their website. How can you save on travel costs?