London has a reputation as one of the most expensive cities in the world, and hotel prices can certainly be high. Yet it is also a city packed with free world-class museums, beautiful parks, historic neighborhoods and affordable food markets. With a little planning, you can enjoy London without spending a fortune.
This guide covers entry requirements, where to stay, how to get around cheaply and the best free and low-cost things to do.
Before You Go: Entry Requirements
The United Kingdom is not part of the European Union or the Schengen Area, so it has its own entry rules. U.S. citizens can visit for tourism without a visa, but they now need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before traveling. The ETA is applied for online or through the official UK ETA app, and approval is usually quick, but apply at least a few days before your trip. Always check the official UK government website for the latest requirements.
Where to Stay in London on a Budget
Central London hotels are pricey, but excellent public transport means you do not need to stay right in the center. Good-value areas include:
- King's Cross: well connected, convenient for the Eurostar and full of affordable chains.
- Bloomsbury: central, near the British Museum, with a range of mid-range hotels.
- South Kensington and Earl's Court: close to major museums with some budget options.
- Shoreditch: trendy, lively and slightly cheaper than the West End.
- Greenwich: historic riverside area with a quieter feel.
Staying near an Underground station on a direct line to the center matters more than a central postcode. Compare options on SkylineSparrow hotels.
Getting Around London Cheaply
You do not need to buy paper tickets or an Oyster card. Simply tap a contactless bank card or mobile wallet on the yellow card readers when entering and exiting the Underground, and tap on when boarding buses. Fares are automatically capped at a daily and weekly maximum, so you never pay more than the cap no matter how many journeys you make.
- Buses are cheaper than the Tube and offer great views from the upper deck.
- Always use the same card for every journey so the fare cap applies.
- Avoid peak hours when possible for a more comfortable ride.
- Walking between central sights is often faster than taking the Tube for short distances.
From Heathrow, the Piccadilly line is the cheapest way into central London. The Elizabeth line is faster and still reasonably priced, while the Heathrow Express is the most expensive option.
Free Things to Do in London
World-Class Free Museums
Many of London's greatest museums are free to enter, with donations welcome:
- The British Museum: home of the Rosetta Stone and the Parthenon sculptures.
- The National Gallery: masterpieces by Van Gogh, Turner, Da Vinci and more.
- Natural History Museum: famous for its dinosaur galleries.
- Tate Modern: modern art inside a former power station on the South Bank.
- Victoria and Albert Museum: art, design and fashion across the centuries.
Some special exhibitions charge admission, and booking a free timed slot is sometimes recommended.
Royal Sights and Ceremonies
Watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, which takes place on scheduled days, usually late morning. Arrive early for a good view. Walking past Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben costs nothing.
Parks and Viewpoints
Hyde Park, St James's Park, Regent's Park and Greenwich Park are all free. For a free skyline view, book a slot at the Sky Garden or climb Primrose Hill at sunset.
Markets
Borough Market, Camden Market and Portobello Road Market are free to explore and great places for affordable street food.
Paid Attractions Worth the Money
- Tower of London: see the Crown Jewels and nearly 1,000 years of history.
- Westminster Abbey: the site of coronations and royal weddings.
- St Paul's Cathedral: climb the dome for panoramic views.
Book these online in advance, as prices are often lower than at the gate.
Eating Well for Less
- Supermarket "meal deals" offer a sandwich, snack and drink at a low fixed price.
- Food markets and street food stalls are cheaper than sit-down restaurants.
- Many pubs serve good-value traditional meals, especially at lunchtime.
- Try the curry houses of Brick Lane or the diverse restaurants of Southall and Tooting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do I need in London?
Four days lets you see the main highlights at a comfortable pace. Add extra days for trips to Windsor, Oxford, Bath or Stonehenge.
Is London part of the Schengen Area?
No. The UK has separate entry rules. Time spent in the UK does not count toward your 90-day Schengen allowance. Learn more in our Schengen guide.
How do I get from London to Paris?
The Eurostar train from St Pancras reaches Paris in just over two hours. See our Paris guide for first-time visitors.
Plan Your London Trip
With free museums, capped transit fares and affordable food markets, London can be surprisingly budget-friendly. Compare flights to London on SkylineSparrow and start planning your trip today.
