solo trip to london cost

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

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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

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 want a guide to show you around, check out our Activities Database .

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.

Use Our Free Guide

Do you know what else can be expensive? Losing a day of your trip thanks to bad information or bad planning. We have you covered with our free download: an easy one-day tour of London. Download the walking tour that we used to send all of our friends and family on when we lived on London. Beautiful sights, great food, interesting history — it’s all here!

THE BEST 1-DAY LONDON ITINERARY

If you have limited time in this capital city, don’t miss out. Our one day itinerary takes you to great spots on an easy walking tour of London. Download to your phone and take it on the go.

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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.

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London Solo Travel Guide: Tips for Visiting

Are you thinking about traveling to London alone? You might be wondering how to navigate this bustling city on your own and if it’s safe for solo travel. Well, I moved to the UK alone 6 years ago from America and I’ve explored London deeply . As a person who has traveled solo to 25+ countries, I have to say London is a great city to travel solo. It is also good for first-time solo travelers because the public transport is great and you don’t have to worry about language barriers (if you’re visiting from an English-speaking country of course). Read on for the best-ever London solo travel guide. I’ve got some amazing tips for your visit as a local and solo female traveler myself.

Not ready to solo travel yet? Join my solo female travel community on FB to find travel buddies or for advice: Girls Who Wander Solo! OR Join a group trip by a reputable company like Flash Pack!

Note: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to purchase something through the links, at no additional cost to you. Read our Affiliate Disclosure here .

Quick Facts before visiting London : 💱Currency: British Pounds £ 💶 Budget for a trip to London : The average daily cost for a trip to London is £190 a night for both food and accommodation but if you really want to travel on a budget staying in hostels and eating cheaply it can cost you £70 a night . 💜 Is tipping required in London? Tipping in London is not required. Sometimes you will find it included in your bill as a service charge.. Most people do not tip in London. ☀️ Best time to Visit: Summer is a great time to visit as the summers can be mild. London has many beautiful seasons! If you visit in Spring, you can catch the beautiful Wisteria and if you visit during Christmas, you can see the city alive with lights everywhere! 🏥 Travel Insurance in London : I recommend SafetyWing which will cover you in case of trip cancellations or any accidents during your travels.

Is London Safe for Solo Travel?

london solo traveler in front of the piccadilly circus tube station

Yes, London is safe for solo travel! I moved here alone and felt safe ever since. Like any big city, keep an eye on your belongings for pickpockets and petty crime which can happen anywhere. I have heard the occasional story of a friend’s iPhone being stolen. Like any city, be aware of your surroundings and travel smart.

My favorite book that helped me when I first came to London was Pretty City London . I highly recommend buying it as it’s also a pretty book to have at home. It tells you all the beautiful cafes and neighborhoods to visit and was founded by the Instagram page @prettycitylondon .

Is London Walkable?

You might be daunted by the fact that London is a huge city to navigate all on your own. Some people might not initially think London is walkable but I beg to differ! If you’re exploring all the iconic landmarks in London , you’d be surprised how you can just walk from one to another in no time. They are all clustered together.

For example, you can start your walk from Trafalgar Square and see Nelson’s Column, surrounded by the National Gallery and St. Martin-in-the-Fields. From there, a short stroll down Whitehall will lead you to the historic Houses of Parliament and the iconic Big Ben . Just across Westminster Bridge, you’ll find yourself at the doorstep of the magnificent Westminster Abbey , steeped in centuries of royal history. And if you’re up for it, continue your journey along the Thames to reach the Tower of London.

Check out my Instagram Guide to London!

Free Solo Travel e-Book

London solo travel: top tips.

solo traveler in front of st pauls cathedral in London

Plan Your Accommodation Carefully : Look for accommodations in safe and well-connected areas. You can find cheaper accommodation just by staying a bit further out of central. As long as you’re next to a tube station (London’s metro system), you’ll arrive at your destination in minutes. Staying in a hostel will be a good idea if you want to meet other travelers.
Stay Connected : Purchase an eSIM with Airalo to stay connected. I am always lost if I don’t stay connected. A data plan will be essential to navigate London!
Utilize London’s Amazing Public Transportation : London has an extensive public transportation system including buses, tubes, and trains. You don’t need to buy an Oyster card at all. Instead, you can pay with a contactless payment method or Apple/Google Pay and tap into the barriers seamlessly.
Safety First : London is generally a safe city, but like any big city, it’s important to stay vigilant. Avoid poorly lit or deserted areas, especially at night, and keep your belongings secure.
Join Walking Tours : Walking tours are a great way to explore the city, learn about its history, and meet other travelers. Many walking tours in London are free or operate on a tip basis.
Take Advantage of Free Attractions : London is full of free attractions such as museums, parks, and iconic landmarks like the British Museum, Tate Modern, and Hyde Park.
Try Amazing Food : There’s a stereotype that British food isn’t good. However, the great thing about London is it offers a diverse culinary scene. Don’t miss the chance to try traditional British dishes like fish and chips, as well as cuisines from around the world in its multicultural neighborhoods.
Explore Markets : London’s markets are great! You can find everything from vintage clothing to street food. Borough Market, Camden Market, and Portobello Road Market are just a few worth checking out.
Be Flexible : Solo travel allows you the freedom to change your plans on a whim. Embrace spontaneity and be open to new experiences and opportunities that come your way.
Connect with Locals : Engage with locals whenever possible, whether it’s striking up a conversation in a pub or asking for recommendations from shop owners. They can provide invaluable insights and enrich your travel experience. Learn how you can meet friends traveling solo .
Share Your Itinerary : While you’re free to wander, it’s a good idea to share your itinerary with someone you trust back home. Check in regularly so they know you’re safe.
Bring back up cash or a backup debit card: London does take credit card mostly everywhere, however, to be safe bring a back up card or cash. I have been stuck in cities before where I’ve forgotten my card in the ATM and was stuck without money solo.

Best things to do in London as a solo traveler

1. admire the views of the city.

london view of the skyline at post building with cherry blossoms

There are so many great spots to see views of the city and they don’t have to be expensive like the Shard or London Eye!

The view pictured here is from an off-the-radar spot called the Post Building. It’s free to visit and other free spots for a view include Sky Garden (reservation ahead required), Primrose Hill , and the Parliament Hill in Hamstead.

3. Visit the Free Museums

the wallace collection best free things to do in london as a solo traveler

Most of the museums in London are FREE ! Making this a great solo travel activity. My favorite museums include the Wallace Collection , a hidden gem with gorgeous stunning artwork and ornate rooms.

Another favorite is the Natural History Museum , where there are over 80 million objects spanning billions of years in this museum.

Don’t miss the colossal T-Rex skeleton, fascinating dinosaur fossils, stunning gem exhibits, and interactive exhibits on evolution and biodiversity.

Other free museums include the V&A Museum , the Tate Modern , the British Museum , and many many more!

3. Take a free walking tour or cycle through the city!

The best way to ease into the city is to take a walking tour ! There are many free walking tours where only tipping is expected in return. Just search online “free walking tour London” as per any major city you visit! Or, you can just book a tour like this and not have the hassle of tipping on the free tours. It takes you to 30 iconic sites in London in 5 hours!

Another fun way to explore the city is by riding bikes. You can take this secret London bike tour or this parks and palaces bike tour . I thought it would be daunting to ride a bike in London but there are plenty of bike lanes and I found it really not bad. I actually loved it and was able to bike from Buckingham Palace to Big Ben and through beautiful Hyde Park. Loved covering so much ground quickly!

4. Discover hidden gems

st dunstans in the east london hidden gems

In every city I visit, I make it a mission to find the best hidden gems. I love exploring the less visited side where you can find quaint streets and local spots . Some of my favorites include St. Dunstan’s in the East and St. Luke’s Mews . If you want more than be sure to read my full guide on the best non-touristy things to do in London.

5. Visit a street food market

borough market best street markets london solo travel guide

London has so many street food markets. Perfect for solo travelers in London. If you’re a foodie, head over to Borough Market where you can enjoy everything from cheese toasties to fish and chips and sausage rolls. This foodie-lover paradise will surely satisfy your crave.

You can even take this food tour at Borough Market – this will not only allow you to taste multiple things but give you the chance to meet other travelers!

Not too far away is my favorite street market , the Maltby Street Market . It’s more of a hidden gem as most tourists don’t know it. If you want to know all the best London food markets , read my full guide!

6. Take a cruise along the Thames River to Greenwich

A great way to see the city at night is by sailing along the River Thames. You can You can take this cruise to Greenwich . Greenwich itself is a great neighborhood to explore with a market and lots of green space!

7. Take a walk in Little Venice

London has a Little Venice! It’s a wonderful place for a Sunday stroll. Just walk along the canal and you’ll see boats docked and many cafes lined around. You can make even enjoy lunch on a boat! May Green not only has amazing brunch but a unique setting to enjoy lunch.

Pro-tip: If you want to get amazing photos during your Solo London trip, you can hire a photographer here.

8. Check out the cafe scene

peggy porschen cupcakes best cafes in london

London has so many cute cafes and independent coffee shops! You don’t have to worry about being alone at these places because they have a chill environment and you’ll also find others on their own too.

Pro-tip: bring something to keep you busy like a book or project to work on.

My favorite cafes in London include Peggy Porschen Cupcakes (pictured), Grind , Farm Girl , and Wolfox .

8. Explore a less touristy neighborhood

London has the most stunning residential neighborhoods. So during your visit be sure to explore one of them. My top picks include Hampstead , Belsize Park , Primrose Hill , and Notting Hill. You’ll find the most picturesque streets and colorful buildings! I absolutely adore these places all situated in the West of London.

9. Relax at one of the many parks

On a sunny day, you should take advantage of relaxing in one of the many London parks around the city. Surprisingly, the large city is home to tons of green space. My favorites include Hampstead Heath, Primrose Hill, Hyde Park, Regents Park, and Holland Park.

10. Take a day trip!

If you’re spending at least 4 days in London , I’d recommend taking a day trip. Some options include a tour that will take you to Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath . Or, you could opt to go to some of my ultimate favorites which includes the charming Cotswolds or Canterbury . All of which are within easy reach from London. The Cotswolds will require a car so if you don’t have one, you should definitely opt for a tour like this one .

London Solo Travel: Best places to eat

3 girls holding hot chocolate drinks in front of a christmas tree in london

London has endless amazing restaurants and cafes.

Here are my top picks for London solo travel!

Some restaurants are particularly welcoming to solo diners, offering counter seating or communal tables . Places like that include Dishoom (multiple locations), Barrafina in Covent Garden, and Padella in Borough Market.

Cafés and Bakeries : London has no shortage of charming cafés and bakeries where you can enjoy a leisurely meal or snack alone. Visit Grind in Covent Garden or London Bridge for my favorite coffee, Ottolenghi in various locations for Mediterranean-inspired dishes, or Gail’s Bakery for freshly baked goods.

Food Markets : There are so many great Food Markets in London. Check out Mercato Mayfair (it’s inside an old church!), Boxpark Shoreditch , or Old Spitalfields Market , all of which are indoor markets. Or as mentioned earlier, try Borough Market ( try a food tour! ) or Maltby Market which are outdoor street markets.

Gastropubs : London is famous for its gastropubs, which offer a cozy atmosphere and excellent food. Places like The Harwood Arms in Fulham, The Holly Bush in Hampstead (home to many great pubs ), and The Anchor & Hope in Waterloo are known for their amazing British fare. Don’t be fooled thinking it’s just pub food!

Where to stay in London as a solo traveler

Here’s some affordable hotels in London for solo travelers.

Z Hotel Soho : Located in the heart of Soho, Z Hotel offers compact and stylish rooms. Within easy reach is the West End Theatre, many restaurants , and nightlife. Check Prices & Book Citizen M London Bankside: : With its innovative design and tech-savvy features, citizenM London Bankside offers a unique hotel experience for solo travelers. Located near the Tate Modern and Borough Market , it’s an excellent base for exploring South Bank attractions. Check Pices & Book

Generator Hostel London : Located in King’s Cross, Generator Hostel offers modern and affordable accommodation with stylish communal areas and a lively atmosphere. Check Prices & Book

The Hoxto n, Shoreditch : Known for its chic design and lively atmosphere, The Hoxton in Shoreditch is a popular choice among solo travelers. It offers stylish rooms, a social lobby area, and easy access t o East London’s hip bars and restaurants. Check Prices & Book

How to meet friends in London

You can join a FB group like mine, Girls Who Wander Solo or Girls Love Travel. These offer opportunities to meet like-minded travelers.
There’s a WhatsApp group, run by @Thirtywaves you can join for those over 30 and you can connect with friends that way. The WhatsApp invite link is here.
Join a tour like a street food tour or a sightseeing tour. I’ve befriended so many people after taking a tour. You can use sites like GetYourGuide or Viator to find tours in London!
Staying in a hostel is another great idea. Some offer private rooms so you don’t have to share one but still take advantage of the social areas!

What to pack for your solo trip to London

Here are some essentials for traveling solo in London.

This super cool scarf has a hidden zipper that allows you to hide important things like your passport or money. A useful thing to have for a solo traveler.
A keychain flashlight is handy to have in case you’re ever walking alone at night and it’s too dark to see your surroundings.
I always carry a mini first aid kit in case of any accidents and I can be a clumsy person!
One thing I never leave home when traveling is a portable compact mobile phone charger like this one . I have run into a few situations where I was stuck in a tiny village in Italy and no one knew English. Sadly my phone died and I felt crippled without my phone. I was unable to use Google Translate to conversate or navigate anywhere. This one is great because it’s fast charging, and can charge wirelessly using a lightning connector or USB-C. The trick to finding long-lasting portable chargers is looking for a 10,000mAh or above power bank. It means the charger will charge the phone at least 3x.
My favorite tripod is this compact tripod for mobile phones – people constantly ask me how I take solo photos and this is how!

Travel Insurance for solo travelers in London

It’s definitely worth getting travel insurance whether you’re traveling alone or with others and I recommend SafetyWing which will cover you in case of any accidents or hospital visits. While it’s unlikely to happen, better safe than sorry!

How much does a solo trip to London cost?

female standing with red heart balloons in front of the london eye

While London is not the cheapest destination to visit as a solo traveler, you can still travel there on a budget.

If you travel on the cheap and stay in hostels, you can expect to pay around £70 a day on accommodation and food.

However, on average for a mid-range style of travel, you can expect to pay around £190 .

Luxury travelers can expect a trip to London to cost £543 a night!

When is the best time for Traveling Solo in London?

London during christmas at koyn restaurant

My favorite time in London is honestly Christmas time when the city lights up with so much Christmas cheer! It is really an amazing sight to see.

I also love London during Cherry Blossom or Wisteria Season which happens between April to May. In May, you’ll find in the Chelsea and Belgravia area many store fronts go all out with flowers decorating their facades. Autumn is also another amazing time because all the beautiful leaves turn orangey-red and cover houses!

If you’re looking for the best weather, summer might be the time for you because London can keep pretty chilly for a while! Even in summer, the weather is unpredictable and you’ll find yourself needing a coat at times.

However, if you come during a heat wave in the summer which sporadically happens, beware because most of the flats and Airbnb-style accommodations won’t have air conditioning. The tube also doesn’t have aircon unless you ride the new Elizabeth line or the Overground. This can be quite miserable as it gets HOT. Hotels and businesses however will have air conditioning.

As you can see there are so many amazing times to visit. I can, however, tell you when to AVOID visiting London. That would be between January and early March when it’s cold and especially the first 2 months of the year. The Christmas decor is gone and the city feels more depressing!

Hopefully, you enjoyed this post on London solo travel and you have more confidence to travel this world solo and fearlessly!

For further reading, you might like these other London posts! 📅 How to Spend 4 Days in London 🇬🇧 Non-touristy things to do in London – from a local! 🍺 The best Pubs in Hampstead 🛍️ Things to do in Belgravia, London ✈️ A Solo Travelers Guide to London 🌳 How to Spend the Perfect Day in Belsize Park 🍁 Autumn in London Photo Spots 💟 Where to find Wisteria in London ☕ 10 Best Coffee & Brunch spots in London 🩷 30+ Instagrammable Places in London 🏙️ Best Viewpoints of London 🛒 London’s Best Markets for Shopping and Food 📸 The 5 Most Instagrammable Cafes in London 🛣️ Most Beautiful and Famous Streets in London

Meet Jackie Rezk, the London-based explorer behind Jou Jou Travels. With a knack for uncovering hidden gems, Jackie's travel blog captures the charm of undiscovered places through pretty architecture and bursts of color. Featured in Yahoo News, Tripadvisor, Niche Pursuits, and GetYourGuide, Jackie has been blogging for four years and solo-traveled to over 20 countries. In 2023, she made the leap to full-time blogging, sharing her passion for travel and unique finds with readers worldwide.