Step Into the Heart of London
London, the capital of the United Kingdom, is a city where history and modernity intertwine. Backpackers will find a wealth of attractions, from well-known landmarks to hidden treasures. This guide will help you navigate the city, offering practical advice and real prices for your journey.
How to Get There?
London is easily accessible by plane, with Heathrow, Gatwick, London City, and Stansted airports serving the city. The Heathrow Express and Heathrow Connect trains can take you directly to Paddington Station in just 20 minutes. The London Underground and Overground networks offer extensive coverage, with fares starting at £2.90 for a single ticket and £4.90 for an Oyster card.
Top Attractions in London
1. The London Eye?
For panoramic views of the city, head to the London Eye. This giant Ferris wheel offers a 360-degree view of London. Tickets cost £28 for an adult day ticket, and you can also opt for a £36 Fast Track ticket that skips the queue. Open daily from 9:30 AM to 10:00 PM in summer, and 10:30 AM to 9:00 PM in winter.
2. The Tower of London?
Explore the historic Tower of London, a fortress that has served as a royal palace, prison, and execution site. The Crown Jewels are a must-see, with an admission fee of £26 for adults. The White Tower, dating back to 1078, is free to enter. Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, with last entry at 4:30 PM.
3. The British Museum?
Discover the world’s cultural treasures at the British Museum. Home to over 8 million objects, including the Rosetta Stone and the Parthenon sculptures. Entry is free, but some exhibitions may have fees. Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM, with last admission at 5:00 PM.
Practical How-To
4. Traveling by Tube?
The London Underground, or "Tube," is the most convenient way to explore the city. A single zone Oyster card costs £3.90, and you can top up online or at ticket machines. The Tube runs 24/7 on weekends, with last services usually around 12:30 AM. Plan your route on the Transport for London website to avoid delays.
5. Dining on a Budget?
London offers a variety of affordable dining options. For a taste of traditional British fare, try a pie and mash shop like Pie Corner in Shoreditch. A pie and a pint can cost around £5. For international cuisine, head to Brick Lane, where you can find everything from Indian to Thai, with most meals costing around £10-15.
Where to Stay
6. Staying in the City Centre?
Consider staying in the city center for easy access to attractions. The Elephant & Castle area offers affordable accommodations, with prices starting at around £50 per night for a basic room. The nearby London Eye and Tower of London are just a short walk away.
7. Exploring the East End?
The East End, particularly the Shoreditch and Hoxton areas, offers a vibrant atmosphere and a range of budget-friendly options. Prices can range from £60 to £100 per night, depending on the hotel and amenities. The area is known for its trendy bars, restaurants, and street art, making it a great choice for a night out.
Frequently Asked Questions
8. What is the best time to visit London?
The best time to visit London is during the shoulder seasons, from April to June or September to November. This avoids the summer crowds and the cold, wet winter months. However, expect higher prices during these times.
9. Are there any s in London?
Yes, there are many s. Visit the Wallace Collection, a private museum with a stunning art collection, for £23 per adult. Alternatively, explore the hidden gardens of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, with an admission fee of £14 for adults. Both are open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
10. What is the cost of public transportation?
A single zone Oyster card costs £3.90, and you can top up online or at ticket machines. The Tube runs 24/7 on weekends, with last services usually around 12:30 AM. Plan your route on the Transport for London website to avoid delays.
11. Are there any free attractions in London?
Yes, several attractions are free. The British Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the Science Museum all offer free entry. The Tower of London is free, but the Crown Jewels have a fee. The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, is free, but guided tours and special exhibitions may have fees.
12. What is the best way to save money on London attractions?
Consider purchasing a London Pass, which grants free entry to over 60 attractions, including the London Eye, Tower of London, and British Museum. A 3-day pass costs £142, and a 7-day pass costs £185. Alternatively, buy a London Travelcard, which offers unlimited travel on the Tube, DLR, and London Overground for £35 for 1 day, £55 for 3 days, or £105 for 7 days.
Planning Your Trip
Explore the diverse neighborhoods of London, from the historic streets of the City of London to the trendy bars of Shoreditch. Use our destination guides to plan your itinerary, and our tour suggestions to save time. For accommodations, check out our hotel reviews to find the perfect place to stay.
Sources
For more information, visit the official Visit London website and the Transport for London website.
What flights NYC to LON actually cost
Prices below are live fares from Aviasales. We may earn a commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
The cheapest return found right now is €332 with Z0, departing 25 Sept 2026 (7h each way). See current fares.
Cheapest dates to fly
| Departure | Price | Airline | Stops | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25 Sept 2026 | €332 | Z0 | 1 stop | Check |
| 24 Sept 2026 | €335 | Z0 | 1 stop | Check |
| 16 Oct 2026 | €356 | Z0 | 1 stop | Check |
| 21 Jan 2027 | €365 | TAP Portugal | 1 stop | Check |
| 12 Oct 2026 | €372 | N0 | 1 stop | Check |
Live fares, checked 27 Aug 2026. Prices change daily.
Booking in London: where to look
We may earn a commission from the links below, at no extra cost to you. We only list services we would use ourselves.
- Airalo — eSIM data the moment you land, no SIM swap
- Saily — Travel eSIM with per-country plans
- Yesim — eSIM covering multiple countries on one plan
Explore the Diverse Neighborhoods of London
Step into the diverse neighborhoods of London, from the historic streets of the City of London to the vibrant art scene of Shoreditch. Each area offers its own unique charm and attractions, making your backpacking experience in London unforgettable.
