where to stay in london

A Guide For A First Time Visitor to London

There is no 'best' place where to stay in London, but we know that picking a hotel in the right place is an important task for your holiday.

Choosing the right hotel depends on your budget and the commodities you would like to have at your accommodation. London is full of hotels to choose from, so whatever area you choose, there will be a selection for you. Despite where to stay in London, you will always be close to a metro or some transport to get around.

Best Places to Stay in London - Boroughs and Neighborhoods Guide.

Boroughs And Neighborhoods, Highlighting The Top Areas To Stay In London

table of contents — where to stay in london

In this guide, we will give you a summary of the best neighbourhoods to stay in London together with a recommended hotel, a list of types of hotels found in the capital city and finally a list of questions and answers many first-time visitors ask and we have the responses for them.

If this is your first time visiting London, then this is the perfect guide!

Tower Bridge at sunset with people walking along the riverfront.

Tower Bridge At Sunset, One Of London’s Most Iconic Landmarks

discover the Top Areas to Stay in London for First-Time Visitors

Within London, there are many districts, neighbourhoods and villages, all with their unique touch. Below are some of the best neighbourhoods to stay in together with the top landmarks that are in the district and also in the vicinity.

Covent Garden - In the heart of the west end

The White Lion Pub with colorful flowers and outdoor seating at Covent Garden, London.

Where To Stay In London | Covent Garden London

Located within both Camden and Westminster Borough

This lively, bustling centre of the West End, called Covent Garden, is a must-visit location for anyone who appreciates theatre, dining, pubs, shopping, restaurants, and entertainment in the heart of the city. Easily accessible by all means of transportation, it is one of the most popular parts of London.

London's West End is famous for its entertainment, shopping, and eating spots. The Savoy, the Adelphi, and Vaudeville are just a few of the top theatres in Covent Garden, which is part of the West End. Several well-known attractions around this neighbourhood are Covent Garden Market, the London Transport Museum, The Royal Opera House, Neal's Yard and Somerset House.

Why should you stay in Covent garden

Covent Garden is the capital of London's culture and entertainment area, where theatre is number one on the top things to see and do. There is a diverse range of accommodation options, both luxury and budget-friendly. Most hotels are in proximity to a transport service. Due to Covent Garden's nature, you will find charming boutique hotels and also several popular chain hotels.

Find out what hotels we recommend staying in by clicking the link below.

Top 12 Best Hotels In Covent Garden London

South Bank – London's best sightseeing area

Areas To Stay In London | London Eye - South Bank

Located within Lambeth and Southwark Borough

South Bank London is located opposite the City of Westminster within Lambeth Borough, it is an entertainment and commercial district in central London.

The district stretches from Westminster Bridge to London Bridge, where several well-known attractions lie in and around this area such as the London Eye, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Tate Modern and the National Theatre. This neighbourhood is also renowned for its gorgeous scenic riverside walks, outdoor festivals and events year-round.

Numerous well-known activities within South Bank both for adventure and kids-friendly are Sea Life, Shrek Adventure and London Dungeons and the Shard.

staying in south bank

When choosing to stay in South Bank, you are opening the doors to some of London's most modern hotels out there. With minutes away from iconic landmarks and plenty of amenities close by, this area is ideal if you are looking for both comfort and relaxation.

Check out our recommended South Bank hotels by clicking the link below.

Top 10 Best Hotels In The South Bank Area

Kensington london - Family friendly hotels

Night photography in a busy street in Kensington Borough.

Where To Stay In London | Kensington Borough London

Located in Kensington and Chelsea Borough

Kensington is a large neighbourhood immediately west of the city centre. This area of London has stunning Victorian architecture, tree-lined streets, and beautiful parks. This area is known for its luxury shopping from famous brands and high-class department stores such as Harrods.

Around Kensington are some interesting and fun things to do such as Victoria & Albert Museum, Natural History Museum, Kensington Palace and Gardens, Hyde Park and the Royal Albert Hall.

staying in kensington london UK

The Kensington area offers an array of high-quality hotels, ranging from luxurious five-star options to charming boutique properties. This neighbourhood has plenty of charm when it comes to accommodation. Also, the surroundings compared to the busier areas make it more tranquil, especially for visitors seeking more peace.

the city of Westminster - heart of London

Crowded Piccadilly Circus with London Underground sign and vibrant banners.

City Of Westminster Hotel London | Bustling Piccadilly Circus

The City of Westminster, the heart of London, serves as a political, cultural, and historical position in all the UK. This borough is home to plenty of iconic world-renowned landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and Trafalgar Square.

Within the City of Westminster are plenty of individual districts. Some well-known districts within this borough are as follows; Mayfair, Soho, Marylebone, Westminster, Victoria, Knightsbridge and Covent Garden.

Westminster area london

Located in the City of Westminster Borough

Westminster area is the core of London, where it houses some of the city's most iconic landmarks. Several iconic landmarks that are a must-visit in this area are the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and Buckingham Palace.

The district is extremely popular and if you come to London, there is no way you will avoid it. All types of transport pass through this district, making it the most concentrated of all. The term hustle and bustle is perfect for Westminster.

Why Should You Stay in Westminster London

Staying in Westminster gives you a chance to choose a wide array of different hotels. Being close to many landmarks, most accommodation prices might be high, however, if you opt for minimum-style hotels, there could be a chance that the price is right for you.

Hotels In the London Westminster Area

Soho - The best neighborhood for nightlife

Classic black London taxi driving through a historic street in the city.

Best Hotels Near Soho London | Soho Area in London

Located in the City of Westminster Borough

Soho is without a doubt one of London's most vibrant entertainment districts. Nightlife, theatres and restaurants bars and nightclubs are abundant. It is possible to keep yourself entertained all day and all night long. London's most famous landmark is Trafalgar Square, according to many people, which is found here.

Soho district lines itself exactly with Oxford Street and China Town, so you are right in the heart of London. Within the district, there aren't plenty of landmarks apart from world-class restaurants, bars and theatres.

staying in soho

Soho is a neighbourhood that offers a wide selection of stylish boutique hotels and modern accommodations to cater for visitors looking for both luxury and mid-range budgets. The public transport in Soho makes it easy to get around the city, despite having most things within walking distance.

Top 10 Best Hotels In The Soho London

Mayfair – For The Best Luxury Accommodation

Curved architecture facades of Regent Street with iconic red London bus in Mayfair London.

Where To Stay In London | Regent Street In London

Located in City of Westminster Borough

Exclusivity has been a hallmark of Mayfair for a long time. Located in a wealthy area within the borough of the City of Westminster. Here you find classy restaurants, world-renowned designer shops, extravagant boutiques and high-class quality accommodations.

The Mayfair district is known for its wealth and luxury, however, there are no iconic landmarks that we know in London. However, there are some well-known things to see and do, such as Bond Street, the street of high-class shops. Just on the outside of Mayfair are more things to do including Buckingham Palace, St. James Park and Hyde Park.

staying in mayfair

Opting to stay in Mayfair because of the level of comfort service and sophistication. Hotels here are high-class and usually very expensive. If you have enough to splurge on elegant accommodation, then Mayfair is the right place. These high-end accommodations are pricey because they feature world-class amenities such as fine dining restaurants, opulent spas, concierge services, and a premium experience.

Top 10 Best Hotels In Mayfair Area In London

Paddington - a more budget-friendly area

Paddington Station's Iconic Glass Roof and Train Platforms.

Where To Stay In London | Paddington Station

Located in City of Westminster Borough

Paddington is a neighbourhood and also a major transport hub. This area is considered a budget-friendly area for accommodation as it is a little outside the city centre. However, getting to the centre is easier than you think.

Paddington is not an area where there are plenty of landmarks around, however, beautiful canals, relaxing garden squares and a wide range of dining and lodging options are what you will find. These include Paddington Basin, Little Venice, Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park.

Why Stay At paddington London

Paddington is a great area to stay in as it offers plenty of budget-friendly hotels for those who have a tight budget. Most of the time when we travel to London, we opt to stay here as the prices of accommodation are much lower than staying right in the heart of the city. We also stay here because getting to the centre is easy, with the underground just minutes away from the hotel.

Best 12 Hotels In Paddington London Area

Top 12+ Best Hotels Around Paddington Station London

marylebone London

Busy Interior of Victoria Train Station with Travelers.

Where To Stay In London | Victoria Train Station London UK

Located in City of Westminster Borough

Marylebone is a charming neighbourhood right next to Paddington and Mayfair, known for its village-like atmosphere. The area is characterised by Georgian architecture, tree-lined streets and stylish buildings.

In comparison to the other areas mentioned on this page, Marylebone is quite a large area with several well-known landmarks, shops, cafés, and restaurants. These include the Madame Tussauds Museum, Sherlock Holmes Museum, the Wallace Collection and Regents Park.

Staying In Marylebone

Staying in Marylebone offers both an intimate and luxurious experience. The setting of the neighbourhood makes staying here a pleasure. The hotels here offer a more refined stay and excellent service. Additionally, Marylebone offers easy access to key landmarks around the city from most hotels around.

10 Best Hotels In Marylebone London

first-time visitor travel questions

Every visitor has questions about travelling to a new destination. We have put together the most popular questions and dedicated guides for each.

City of London

St. Paul's Cathedral Dome Overlooking a London Street.

London Where To Stay | A Typical London Street

Located in the City of London Borough

The City of London, located on the north bank of the River Thames, is the financial centre of the nation's capital and the location of the Stock Exchange and the Bank of England. It is sometimes referred to as "the Square Mile". It is very popular with tourists with its historical monuments, museums, shops, and restaurants.

Within this borough are several landmarks worth visiting such as St. Paul's Cathedral, Museum of London, Sky Garden, Leadenhall Market and the Tower of London which is just on the periphery of the borough.

Why stay in the City of London

Modern, business-focused hotels in the City of London are well-equipped with state-of-the-art amenities, making them ideal for both business and leisure travellers. It also offers a peaceful retreat after a busy day during the evenings and weekends. In addition to offering top-notch accommodation, its strategic location and excellent transportation links ensure easy access to other parts of London.

best tours from london england

Camden town - a multi-cultural area

Camden Lock with colorful canal boats and weeping willow trees.

Camden Town London - Where to stay in London

Located in Camden Borough

Camden Town has become one of London's most popular tourist destinations and one of the most lively areas in London. It offers a local perspective on London that you won't find anywhere else in the city. It is very popular for its market, vibrant live music and many best places to eat from a variety of cultures around the world.

While Camden Town is mainly focused on the markets, just outside the town you can find the following sights and things to do. These include the Camden Lock Market, London Zoo, Regent's Park and Regent's Canal.

Why stay at Camden town in London

There are many unique and affordable hotels in Camden Town, including trendy boutiques and budget-friendly hotels. In addition, the area is well-connected to public transport, making it easy to explore central London while providing a distinctive local experience. The accommodation provided at Camden Town offers a wide range of options, regardless of budget or taste.

Tips for booking the perfect hotel in London

The following are tips from our experience and from the mistakes we have made which cost us time and money. Following these will ensure you find the most suitable accommodation for you.

Research: Before going ahead and booking your hotel, make sure you do all the necessary research. Sites like Booking.com provide an extensive list of hotels which makes it easy for you to do your research well. Each hotel has included all the amenities, location, types of rooms available, hotel surroundings and reviews.
Booking Season: London is busy all year round, however, there are particular seasons throughout the year when tourism spikes. Beware of these spikes and make sure you think ahead before booking. These spikes usually occur during a festive season, special public holidays, Royal Ceremonies and summer.
Book Early: As mentioned previously, London is busy most of the year, so if you are planning to travel here, make sure you think about booking your hotel months in advance. Doing this will ensure you find good prices and a comfortable hotel that will suit all your needs.
Location: If you never visited London, staying central is highly recommended and always ensure that you have a transport link right next to your hotel.

hotels near top landmarks in london

The iconic London Eye and River Thames with views of Big Ben and Westminster.

Where To Stay London | The iconic London Eye and River Thames

Staying near London's top landmarks ensures you're always close to the city's most famous attractions, reducing travel time and maximizing your time spent sightseeing. Whether you're drawn to the historic Tower of London, the iconic Big Ben, or the bustling West End, here’s a guide to some of the best hotels near London's must-see landmarks.

hotels near the london eye

Staying near the London Eye offers incredible views of the Thames and easy access to some of London’s most iconic attractions. These hotels are only around minutes on foot from the London Eye and other famous attractions nearby.

Check out the best 12 hotels near the London Eye

hotels near the tower bridge london

Along London's rich history are significant landmarks. The Tower Bridge is notably one of them. Staying within the vicinity of this landmark offers rooms with panoramic views of the bridge itself and the River Thames.

See which hotels we recommend near Tower Bridge London

hotels near buckingham Palace London

Staying close to Buckingham Palace is a privilege as you get to be near the royal residence. Although not as close as you think, several hotels are minutes away on foot and somewhere you could say a slice of the palace.

Uncover the best 12 hotels near the Buckingham Palace for unbeatable views

hotels Close To Wimbledon Stadium London

Hotels near Wimbledon Stadium are ideal for tennis fans and visitors looking to stay in a more residential part of London. Hotels here are direct to visitors planning to watch the Wimbledon Championships during July.

Browse the top 12 hotels near Wimbledon Stadium for sports fans

category of the best types of hotels in london

Luxury Hotels in london

In London, there is a wide variety of luxury hotels from which to choose, which can make selecting the ideal one a challenging task. In London, hotels excel at pampering and spoiling their guests. In addition to the presentation of services, the hotel offers luxurious views and free access to all its premium amenities.

5 Star london Hotels

The best five-star hotels in the world may be found in London. Making your stay a little more exceptional is simple because there are many hotels with rich history, famous clients, royalties, exquisite spas and restaurants that will make your stay fantastically special.

marriott hotels in london

Luxury and comfort await you at Marriott hotels in London. The London Marriott Hotel Park Lane overlooking Hyde Park or The London Marriott County Hall near the London Eye, Marriott offers exceptional service, premium amenities, and easy access to top attractions. Enjoy a relaxing and convenient stay in the heart of London at Marriott hotels in London, which offer spacious rooms, fine dining, and fitness facilities.

Best London Hotels for a Magical Christmas Stay.

christmas hotels in London

The festive season transforms London into a magical destination, and many hotels offer festive experiences. With lavish decorations like the Ritz London or family-friendly hotels like the Rubens at the Palace, Christmas hotels add to the holiday cheer. For a magical festive stay, check out the best Christmas hotels in London that feature festive afternoon teas, Christmas markets nearby, and special holiday packages.

Colorful row of houses and restaurants on in Kensington Borough London.

best boutique hotels london

As a guest, you will be able to choose from a wide range of boutique hotels in London, so that you can be sure to find the ideal place for you at a price that will meet your expectations. Many boutique hotels are affordable or provide chic accommodations, convenient locations, elegant touches without an exorbitant price tag, or provide personal attention to each guest.

famous hotels in london

With a range of properties to choose from, there are hotel properties in London that are known globally as some of the most renowned and elegant hotels in the world. There are many famous locations where movies have been filmed, historic landmarks, and even hotels where Hollywood actors have stayed.

CitizenM Hotel London offering stunning view of Tower of London from one of the hotel rooms.

coolest hotels in London

There are a wide variety of hotels available in London, which is unmatched anywhere else. A wide variety of cool accommodations is available on the market, from extravagant peculiarities and dreamlike designs to original themes and boutique hotels with a unique character.

Picturesque Kensington street with classic London townhouses.

Bed and Breakfast in London

It is more affordable and interesting to stay at a bed and breakfast to save money on accommodation. In every London neighbourhood, you can find B&Bs, and many are within walking distance of the city's best attractions. Family-run and cheaper than most London hotels, they can provide insight into the neighbourhood since they are frequently family-run.

Related content: best free things to do in london

Q&A - where to stay in London for first-time visitors

What is the best neighbourhood/area of London to stay in?

All areas have their pros and cons, but if you want to stay very central and are only walking distance from most attractions we recommend staying in Mayfair, Soho, South Bank or the City of London.

Where is the most central place to stay in London?

Geographically, Trafalgar Square is the most central part of London. So if you are looking for a neighbourhood closest to this landmark, it is Soho.

Are the hotels in London expensive?

There is a mix of hotels accommodating all types of budgets. The more central you go, the higher the prices will be. If you are looking for luxury and prices are not a concern, then Mayfair, City of London or Soho are a start with high-priced hotels. If you want to go for cheaper hotels, due to a restricted budget, Kensington and Paddington are also a start as they are slightly further away from the main centre.

Where to stay in London first time?

On our first visit to London, we stayed in Paddington as the accommodation was cheaper and it was the perfect link to get around by metro. Our hotel was a couple of minutes' walk from Paddington metro.

Where to stay in London close to everything?

If you choose to stay within the mentioned neighbourhoods on this page, generally speaking, you will be close to everything. Keep in mind that with London's metro transport, you can get everywhere within minutes and there are metro stops a few minutes away from the most popular landmarks.

If you are hesitant about using the metro all the time and prefer walking, then staying closer to Oxford Street in the districts of Soho, Mayfair and Covent Garden is your best choice.

Where to stay in London with family as a tourist?

When visiting with family, especially with children, safety is always a priority. London is a pretty safe place to stay. The best neighbourhoods to stay in are Mayfair, South Kensington, Knightsbridge, Belgravia and Chelsea. These areas are all in the centre and you will find all types of accommodation to accommodate your family.

top-rated things to do in london

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Where to stay in London photo sources

Regent Street Mayfair - Photo by Thomas Konings on Unsplash
Paddington Station - Photo by Ernie Journeys on Unsplash
Soho street - Alex Tomaras, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Rosewood London Courtyard - Durston Saylor, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
CItizenM Hotel in the City of London - Photo by Patrick Robert Doyle on Unsplash
Marylebone Railway Station - Photo by Cody Whear on Pexels