How much does a trip to London cost?

A direct round-trip flight from the USA (e.g., JFK) to London (LHR) typically starts around $600–$950 in Economy Class, including one checked bag up to 50 lb (23 kg) and one carry-on. Prices peak in June, July, and August (and around holidays). You’ll often save by flying in the shoulder seasons (spring and fall), being flexible with dates, using low-cost carriers, or choosing connecting flights—especially if you’re continuing beyond London to cities like Edinburgh, Manchester, or Bath.

Prices for popular guided tours in London typically range from $35 to $100 per person. With this budget, you might join a historic pub tour, take a small-group tour of the Tower of London, explore Westminster Abbey with a Blue Badge guide, or enjoy a magical Harry Potter walking tour.

Tickets to major sights generally cost $30–$45 per visitor—think the Tower of London, the London Eye, The View from The Shard, or Madame Tussauds. By contrast, private early-access tours of the Crown Jewels, a private capsule on the London Eye, or a chauffeur-driven day trip to Windsor Castle or Stonehenge can run several hundred dollars, depending on exclusivity.

London also offers plenty of free experiences: explore the vast collection at the British Museum, admire the city views from the Sky Garden (booking required but free), wander the vibrant stalls of Borough Market, watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, and step inside world-class galleries like the Tate Modern or the National Gallery.

Prices for a 4* hotel in London start at about $180 per night. You can also stay in 2–3* accommodation from around $100 per night. In the low season, rates are typically up to 20% lower. For luxurious 5* hotels or historic properties in Mayfair and Kensington, there’s virtually no upper limit, as premium rooms and suites can easily exceed $1,500 per night in peak months. Whenever possible, we recommend choosing a locally owned hotel or boutique property over a large chain. Small, often family-run B&Bs and guesthouses are hallmarks of an authentic British vacation. Rooms are usually simple but welcoming, with a relaxed atmosphere, local character, and genuinely personal service.

Driving in London is generally not recommended for city exploration due to the Congestion Charge, Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) fees, and heavy traffic, though rentals are useful for trips to the English countryside. Rates for a small car start around $60–$90 per day in peak months. If you do drive, expect fuel to cost roughly $1.90–$2.10 per liter.

London’s public transportation is a world-class and efficient alternative. The Transport for London (TfL) network includes the Tube (Underground), red double-decker buses, the DLR, and the Overground. Contactless payment (card or phone) is the easiest way to pay, with daily caps ensuring you never overspend—a single Tube ride in Zone 1 costs about $3.50. For day trips to Oxford, Cambridge, or Windsor, trains are frequent and can cost $20–$50 depending on booking time.

Walking is often the best way to see the sights in central areas like Covent Garden or the South Bank. For airport transfers, the Heathrow Express offers a fast link to Paddington ($30+), while the Elizabeth Line is a cheaper, modern alternative. Iconic black cabs are convenient but can be pricey ($25–$40 for short central trips), while rideshares like Uber are widely available and often slightly cheaper.

Prices for a meal in a London pub or restaurant typically range from $20 to $40 for a main course, while a full three-course dinner with wine often costs $70 to $130. Street food is delightfully diverse and affordable, usually $8 to $15 for a gourmet burger, falafel wrap, or a portion of fish and chips from a market stall. Unlike in Rome, a discretionary service charge of 12.5% is automatically added to the bill in most restaurants, so no need to calculate an extra tip unless service was exceptional.

To explore London’s cuisine, go beyond the classic Fish & Chips and Sunday Roast. Try a traditional Full English Breakfast, savory pies with mash, or a modern British dish at a gastropub. Don’t miss the city’s incredible international scene, from authentic curry on Brick Lane to dim sum in Chinatown. For the most atmospheric experience, seek out historic pubs with cozy fireplaces or trendy food markets like Borough or Camden, where local producers shine. In London, dining hours are generally earlier than in southern Europe: lunch is typically 12 to 2:30 pm, and dinner service runs from 6 to 9:30 pm, though many central spots serve later.