London Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
General Planning & Logistics
Q: How many days do I need for a first-time trip to London?
A: Most travelers recommend at least 4-5 full days to see the main sights, with a week being ideal to allow for day trips and more in-depth exploration.
Q: What’s the best time of year to visit London?
A: Spring (April-May) and early Autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer (June-August) is popular but can be very busy and more expensive.
Q: What’s the best way to get from Heathrow (LHR) to central London?
A: The Elizabeth Line is often recommended as it’s cheaper than the Heathrow Express and still very efficient. The Piccadilly Line (Tube) is the cheapest but slowest.
Q: Should I buy an Oyster card or use contactless payment?
A: Contactless payment (debit/credit card or phone/watch) is generally preferred by travelers as it offers daily capping, meaning you won’t pay more than a certain amount in a day regardless of how much you travel. Each adult needs their own card.
Q: Is London a walkable city?
A: Yes, many areas are very walkable, and walking between clustered attractions is encouraged to save money and see more. However, London is vast, so public transport is essential for longer distances.
Q: What’s the best app for navigating public transport?
A: Citymapper and Google Maps are highly recommended for accurate directions and real-time public transport information.
Q: Do I need to book attractions in advance?
A: Yes, generally, it’s highly recommended to book almost everything in advance, especially popular attractions like the Tower of London (get early tickets for the Crown Jewels), Westminster Abbey, and theatre shows. This saves time and often money.
Q: What’s the currency in London/UK?
A: The Pound Sterling (£).
Q: Is London a cashless city?
A: Mostly, yes. Card payment is widely accepted everywhere, and many places prefer it.
Q: How much should I budget per day for food in London?
A: This varies widely. For budget travelers, £10-20 for supermarket meal deals/picnics is feasible. Eating out at casual restaurants can be £15-30+ per person per meal.
Accommodation
Q: What are good areas to stay for first-time visitors?
A: Areas like Covent Garden, South Bank, Bloomsbury, Victoria, and Paddington are often suggested for their central location and good transport links.
Q: Any recommendations for budget-friendly accommodation?
A: Hostels (check reviews), chain hotels outside Zone 1 but near a Tube station, or looking at Airbnb/short-term rentals (with caution and thorough vetting).
Q: Is staying further out to save money worth it?
A: Many travelers say yes, as long as you’re near a Tube station. The travel time might be a bit longer, but the savings on accommodation can be significant.
Q: How can I find reliable reviews for hotels/hostels?
A: TripAdvisor and Google Reviews.
Q: What’s the deal with “shared rooms” in hostels?
A: Typically dormitory-style rooms with multiple beds. Read descriptions carefully for gender-specific dorms or private options.
Transportation Specifics
Q: How do the Tube caps work?
A: Once you spend a certain amount on contactless payments or Oyster, all further journeys for that day (within the same zones) are free. This cap varies by zones traveled.
Q: Are buses cheaper than the Tube?
A: Yes, individual bus fares are cheaper than Tube fares, and they also have a daily cap. For shorter distances or if you want to see the city from above, buses are a great option.
Q: What about taxis (black cabs vs. Uber/Bolt)?
A: Black cabs are iconic and driven by “The Knowledge” trained drivers, but are more expensive. Uber/Bolt are available but can sometimes have longer wait times than expected.
Q: Can I use the same contactless card for multiple people?
A: No, each person needs their own contactless card or device to tap in and out.
Q: What are DLR trains?
A: The Docklands Light Railway is an automated, driverless train system offering great views, particularly when sitting at the front. Good for exploring East London.
Q: Are there any specific etiquette rules for public transport?
A: Stand on the right, walk on the left on escalators. Let people off the train/bus before boarding. Move down inside the carriage. Avoid loud conversations.
Q: What’s the “Young Visitor” discount for Oyster cards?
A: A discount applied to an Oyster card for children, making their travel half price. Staff at Tube stations can apply it. Younger children often travel free.
Q: Is it worth getting a London Pass or other tourist passes?
A: Opinions are mixed. They can be good if you plan to visit many paid attractions in a short time, but often don’t save money if you’re a slower traveler or prefer free activities. Do the math based on your planned itinerary.
Q: Are there night buses/Tube services?
A: The Night Tube operates on some lines on Friday and Saturday nights. Night buses cover most routes when the Tube isn’t running.
Q: How to avoid rush hour on the Tube?
A: Avoid traveling between roughly 6-10 AM and 5-7 PM on weekdays, if possible, as trains can be extremely crowded.
Attractions & Activities (General)
Q: What are the best free museums in London?
A: British Museum, Natural History Museum, Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A), Tate Modern, National Gallery, Imperial War Museum, and Museum of London (though this is moving).
Q: Which paid attractions are “must-sees”?
A: Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Churchill War Rooms are frequently mentioned. The London Eye offers great views.
Q: Any tips for visiting the Tower of London?
A: Go early, head straight for the Crown Jewels to avoid long queues, and join a Beefeater tour for an entertaining and informative experience.
Q: What are some good places for panoramic views?
A: Sky Garden (free, but book well in advance), Tate Modern Viewing Platform (free), and The Shard (paid, can be expensive). Primrose Hill offers great park views.
Q: Are the Royal Parks worth visiting?
A: Absolutely! Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, St. James’s Park, Greenwich Park, and Richmond Park are beautiful for relaxing, walking, and people-watching.
Q: What’s a good alternative to the London Eye for views?
A: Sky Garden or the Tate Modern viewing platform. The Emirates Air Line (cable car) also offers unique views.
Q: What are some fun things to do with kids in London?
A: Natural History Museum (dinosaurs!), Science Museum, London Zoo (Regent’s Park), Shrek’s Adventure, Tower of London, and boat trips on the Thames.
Q: Where can I see a theatre show?
A: The West End offers world-class productions. Look for last-minute deals at TKTS booths or on apps like TodayTix.
Q: Any recommendations for a traditional British experience?
A: Visit a traditional pub, have a Sunday Roast, go for afternoon tea, or catch a football match (if in season and you can get tickets).
Q: What are some unique or quirky attractions?
A: Sir John Soane’s Museum, Wellcome Collection, Churchill War Rooms, Hunterian Museum, Chislehurst Caves, God’s Own Junkyard, Roman Mithraeum (Bloomberg Arcade).
Q: Are there any good walking tours?
A: Free walking tours (tip-based) are popular, covering various themes like history, Jack the Ripper, or Harry Potter. Look for reputable companies.
Q: What’s the best way to see all the major landmarks?
A: A hop-on hop-off bus tour can be good for an overview, but public transport and walking are often more efficient and cost-effective. Clustering attractions by area helps.
Q: Is Borough Market worth visiting?
A: Yes, for foodies, but it can get very crowded, especially on weekends. Go on a weekday or early on a Saturday.
Q: What are some good day trips from London?
A: Bath, Oxford, Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, Cambridge, and Brighton are popular choices. Book train tickets in advance for cheaper fares.
Q: What’s the deal with changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace?
A: It’s a popular spectacle, but can be very crowded. Check the schedule in advance. Arrive early for a good spot.
Food & Drink
Q: Where can I get a good traditional English breakfast?
A: Many local cafes and pubs offer a full English. Look for well-regarded local spots rather than tourist traps.
Q: Best places for Fish & Chips?
A: Recommendations vary, but often include local chippies outside the immediate central tourist zones or pubs that serve good quality versions. Poppies Fish & Chips is a common suggestion.
Q: Any recommendations for a Sunday Roast?
A: Many pubs do an excellent Sunday Roast. It’s often recommended to find a pub outside the most central tourist areas for better ambiance and value. Book in advance if it’s a popular spot.
Q: Where can I find good, affordable food?
A: Food markets (Borough Market, Maltby Street Market, Mercato Mayfair, Market Halls), ethnic restaurants (e.g., Brick Lane for curry, Chinatown for East Asian), or chain restaurants.
Q: What are some good food markets to explore?
A: Borough Market, Maltby Street Market, Seven Dials Market, Mercato Metropolitano/Mayfair, Camden Market.
Q: Best places for a curry in London?
A: Brick Lane is famous for its curry houses (be prepared for touts), but many travelers suggest going to areas like Southall, Tooting, or Wembley for more authentic and diverse options.
Q: Any good spots for afternoon tea?
A: This ranges from very high-end (Ritz, Claridge’s) to more affordable options at hotels or cafes. Booking is almost always essential.
Q: Where can I find good pub food?
A: Most pubs serve food, ranging from basic pub grub to gastropub fare. Look for pubs that focus on quality ingredients.
Q: What are “meal deals”?
A: Common in supermarkets (Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Boots), these offer a sandwich/salad, a snack, and a drink for a set, low price, great for budget lunches.
Q: What’s a good pub for a first-timer?
A: Many historical pubs like The Churchill Arms, Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, or The George Inn are good for atmosphere.
Q: Any recommendations for vegetarian/vegan food?
A: London has a thriving vegetarian and vegan scene. Apps like HappyCow can help, and many markets have dedicated vegan stalls.
Q: What’s the typical tipping etiquette in London?
A: Tipping is not as ingrained as in the US. For good service, 10-15% is appreciated, but not always expected, especially if a service charge is already added. Tipping in pubs is not common.
Q: Best places for coffee?
A: London has many independent coffee shops. Look for smaller cafes rather than just big chains.
Q: Should I book restaurants in advance?
A: For nicer or popular restaurants, yes, booking is highly recommended, especially for dinner. Casual eateries often don’t require reservations.
Q: Any unique dessert places?
A: Crosstown Doughnuts, various patisseries, and dessert cafes.
Safety & Practical Advice
Q: Is London safe for tourists?
A: Generally, yes, London is considered a very safe city. Exercise common sense precautions, as in any major city.
Q: What are common scams or things to watch out for?
A: Phone snatching (especially by people on bikes/scooters – don’t use your phone near the road), pickpocketing in crowded areas (Oxford Street, major attractions, Tube), card games on Westminster Bridge (scams), and “American candy stores” selling overpriced/expired goods.
Q: How can I protect my phone from snatching?
A: Be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking with your phone out, especially near roads. If you need to use it, step into a shop or against a wall. Don’t leave it on outdoor tables.
Q: What about pickpocketing?
A: Keep wallets in front pockets, use bags with secure zippers, and be vigilant in crowded areas.
Q: What’s the emergency number in the UK?
A: 999 for police, ambulance, or fire.
Q: Do I need a power adapter?
A: Yes, the UK uses Type G plugs (three rectangular pins).
Q: What’s the weather like in London?
A: Variable! Be prepared for rain even in summer. Layers are always a good idea. Summers can be warm, but rarely extremely hot. Winters are generally mild but damp.
Q: Can I drink tap water in London?
A: Yes, tap water is safe to drink. Many places offer free water refills.
Q: Is English spoken everywhere?
A: Yes, English is the official language.
Q: What are some cultural norms to be aware of?
A: Queuing (lining up) is very British. Saying “please” and “thank you” goes a long way. People tend to be more reserved on public transport.
Q: What’s the deal with “mind the gap”?
A: An iconic announcement on the Tube warning passengers about the gap between the train and the platform.
Q: Where can I get a SIM card or eSIM for my phone?
A: Many providers offer cheap data plans. If your phone supports eSIM, it’s often the easiest option. Otherwise, physical SIMs can be bought at mobile phone stores or supermarkets.
Q: Are there public restrooms available?
A: Yes, in Tube stations (sometimes paid), department stores, museums, and cafes (often for customers only). Public toilets can be sparse.
Q: What are the opening hours for shops and attractions?
A: Shops typically open 9-10 AM and close 5-6 PM, with longer hours on Thursdays in central areas. Attractions usually open 9-10 AM and close 5-6 PM, but check specific websites.
Q: Is London accessible for people with disabilities?
A: The Tube can be challenging due to stairs, but TfL has an accessibility map. Buses are generally more accessible. Many major attractions are wheelchair-friendly.
Off the Beaten Path / Local Tips
Q: What are some “hidden gem” pubs?
A: Ye Olde Mitre (Holborn), The Grenadier (Belgravia), The Mayflower (Rotherhithe). Many suggest simply exploring local neighborhoods.
Q: Any less-known parks or green spaces?
A: Hampstead Heath (great views from Parliament Hill), Richmond Park (deer), Regent’s Canal walks, Kyoto Garden (Holland Park).
Q: Where can I experience local London life?
A: Visit neighborhood markets (Ridley Road Market, Columbia Road Flower Market), explore areas like Hampstead Village, Stoke Newington Church Street, or Shoreditch, and visit local pubs.
Q: Best independent cinemas?
A: Prince Charles Cinema, Curzon cinemas, Everyman Cinemas.
Q: Are there any good walking paths along the Thames?
A: Yes, the South Bank offers iconic views, but you can walk much further along both sides, exploring different neighborhoods.
Q: What’s the Barbican Centre? Is it worth visiting?
A: A brutalist architectural complex housing a theatre, concert hall, cinemas, galleries, and a conservatory (book in advance). Worth a visit for its unique architecture and cultural offerings.
Q: Any interesting independent shops or markets?
A: Alfie’s Antiques Market (Marylebone), Spitalfields Market, Columbia Road Flower Market (Sundays only).
Q: Where can I find good street art?
A: Shoreditch and the Leake Street Graffiti Tunnel (under Waterloo Station).
Q: What’s a good neighborhood to just wander around?
A: Greenwich, Notting Hill, Hampstead, Spitalfields, Covent Garden, Bloomsbury.
Q: Any interesting literary or historical sites off the main tourist trail?
A: Charles Dickens Museum, Freud Museum, Carlyle’s House, Dr. Johnson’s House, Temple Church (Knights Templar).
Q: What’s a good way to get out of the “super touristy Zone 1”?
A: Explore East London (Shoreditch, Hackney, Victoria Park), South London (Brixton, Peckham, Greenwich), or North London (Hampstead, Camden Town).
Q: Any recommendations for live music beyond the big venues?
A: Look for listings in smaller pubs, jazz clubs (e.g., Ronnie Scott’s), or independent music venues. Time Out London is a good resource.
Q: What are “supper clubs”?
A: Often informal dining experiences in unique settings, often run by home cooks or small chefs. Can be a good way to meet people.
Q: Is it worth going to Camden Market?
A: Yes, for the alternative vibe, street food, and unique stalls, but it can get very crowded. Go early.
Q: What’s the appeal of Little Venice?
A: A picturesque canal area where Regent’s Canal and the Grand Union Canal meet, offering boat trips and pleasant walks.
Miscellaneous Tips & Advice
Q: What’s the attitude towards Americans/other tourists?
A: Londoners are generally welcoming. Be polite, aware of local customs, and avoid being overly loud or flashy in public.
Q: What’s the public healthcare situation for tourists?
A: Non-residents generally have to pay for healthcare services, so travel insurance is highly recommended.
Q: Should I worry about Brexit affecting my trip?
A: For most tourists, the practical impact is minimal. The main changes are regarding customs and immigration for longer stays, not typical tourist visits.
Q: Any advice for dealing with jet lag?
A: Stay hydrated, try to adjust to local time immediately, get natural light, and avoid napping too long.
Q: What’s the best way to get cash (GBP)?
A: ATMs (cash machines) are widely available. Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid card blocks.
Q: How can I save money on food and drinks?
A: Utilize supermarket meal deals, buy groceries and picnic in parks, opt for cheaper ethnic food, and take advantage of happy hours or pre-theatre menus.
Q: Is it okay to ask locals for directions?
A: Yes, most Londoners are happy to help, though they might be in a hurry.
Q: What are the best apps to download before going?
A: Citymapper, Google Maps, a weather app, and potentially apps for specific attractions or theatre tickets.
Q: Any tips for packing?
A: Layers are key, comfortable walking shoes are essential, and a portable umbrella is a must.
Q: What souvenirs should I buy?
A: Avoid the generic tourist tat around major attractions. Look for unique items in independent shops, museum gift shops, or local markets.
Q: How reliable is Wi-Fi in London?
A: Wi-Fi is widely available in cafes, pubs, hotels, and many public spaces (e.g., Tube stations).
Q: What’s the etiquette for pubs? Do I order at the bar?
A: Yes, generally you order drinks at the bar. Food orders are often taken at the bar or at tables, depending on the pub.
Q: Is it rude to stare at people on the Tube?
A: Generally, people keep to themselves and avoid eye contact on the Tube. It’s not considered rude, just a common practice.
Q: How much notice do I need for airport check-in for international flights?
A: Standard advice is 2-3 hours for international flights. Always check with your airline.
Q: What’s the overall vibe of London for tourists?
A: Diverse, vibrant, historic, and constantly evolving. It can be busy and overwhelming at times, but also incredibly rewarding and full of discovery. Enjoy the “accidental London” you find by walking and exploring!