London is a huge, bustling metropolis and the vibrant capital of Great Britain. With so many attractions to explore and neighborhoods to discover, it’s easy to feel a little overwhelmed, especially when you realise just how spread out everything is. If you’re hoping to find a hotel close to every tourist attraction, I hate to disappoint you, but that’s not how London works. The city is massive, and its iconic landmarks are scattered across different areas.
The good news? London’s tube and bus systems make getting around surprisingly simple (check out this blog post to learn how to travel around London like a pro ). So, whether you’re here for the history, shopping, nightlife, or a little bit of everything, you’ll find plenty of great places to stay that suit your needs. Let me guide you through the best areas to make the most of your trip to London.
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links which mean that if you choose to book through it I earn a small commission at no cost to you. I appreciate your support to keep this site up and running!
Covent Garden – If you’re after a spot that feels like a European Old Town Square, Covent Garden is the closest you’ll find in London. It’s right in the heart of the city, with a buzzing atmosphere filled with restaurants, bars, shops and a covent garden market. Plus, it’s only a short stroll to iconic spots like the royal opera house, Piccadilly Circus, leicester square, trafalgar square with national gallery,and the Southbank. With its own Tube station, getting around the city is very easy, but honestly, you might not need it – this area is perfect for walking. In my opinion, Covent Garden isn’t just the best area to stay for first-time visitors, it’s also ideal for those who want to explore London on foot.
$ – The Z hotel, Seven Dials Hotel
$$ – Henrietta Experimental, St Martins Lane
$$$ – NoMad London, The Savoy
South Bank – South Bank is hands down one of my favorite places to take friends and family when they visit. It’s such a scenic stretch along the river Thames, starting near the London Eye ( and the area of Westminster Abbey and Big Ben ) and ending at Tower Bridge. Along the way, you’ll pass some of London’s most iconic sights, like St. Paul’s Cathedral (from across the river), the Imperial War Museum, The Shard, Borough Market, and Tate Modern. Plus, the views of the City of London skyline are absolutely stunning. It’s a safe and lively area, with plenty of cafes and spots to rest if you need a break. And getting around is easy with three major stations – London Bridge, Blackfriars, and Waterloo station – along the route.
$ – Holiday Inn Express, Mercure London Bridge
Kensington and Chelsea – Kensington and Chelsea is easily one of the most charming neighborhoods in London. It’s clean, calm, and has a more relaxed vibe compared to the hustle and bustle of central London, making it the perfect area to stay if you’re traveling with kids. I used to live here, and I absolutely loved the peaceful atmosphere, the endless choice of restaurants, and the cozy cafes tucked away on quiet streets. It’s also super well-connected to the rest of the city, so getting around is easy. Plus, it’s home to some of London’s most famous museums, like the Natural History Museum, the Victoria and Albert Museum, and the National Army Museum.
$ – Holiday Inn, Copthorne Tara Hotel
Shoreditch – Shoreditch used to be my go-to spot for nights out, and it still has some of the coolest bars and nightclubs in London. It’s got that edgy, artsy vibe, perfect for hipsters, creatives, and anyone who loves a bit of street art and independent shops. You’ll find plenty of budget-friendly hotels here, which makes it ideal for backpackers and younger travelers. It’s also super convenient, with Liverpool Street Station nearby, connecting you not just to the rest of London but also directly to Stansted Airport. Once there check out Brick Lane – east London hidden gem.
$ – Point A hotel, Monopoly
$$ – The Hoxton, CitizenM London
$$$ – Nobu Hotel, Pan Pacific London
Soho – If you want to stay in the heart of the action, Soho is the place to be. It’s right in the city center, buzzing with energy and excitement day and night. From world-class theaters to incredible cuisine from every corner of the globe, Soho has it all. The nightlife here is legendary, with a mix of trendy bars, pubs, and late-night spots. It’s a great choice if you’re after vibrant evenings and a lively atmosphere. That said, it can get pretty busy, so it’s probably not the best spot for families.
$ – The Z Hotel Soho, Mimis Hotel Soho
$$ – The Resident Soho, Hazlitts Hotel
$$$ – The Soho Hotel, Ham Yard Hotel
Paddington – Paddington is a super convenient area to stay, especially if you’re traveling from Heathrow – just hop on the Heathrow Express, and you’ll be here in no time. The neighborhood has loads of hotels to choose from, but to be honest, there isn’t much to do right in the area itself. That said, it’s a great base if you don’t mind traveling to other parts of London for sightseeing or nightlife. With excellent transport links, including Paddington Station, you can easily get to most of the city’s major attractions.
$ – Comfort Inn, EasyHotel
Camden – Camden Town in north london is the ultimate spot for lovers of alternative culture and music. It’s budget-friendly and packed with character, making it a favorite among younger travelers. The area is most famous for Camden Market – a massive maze of stalls selling everything from antiques and quirky clothing to home decor and food from every corner of the world. I used to love visiting Camden all the time, but over the years, it’s become so busy that walking down the street can feel like navigating a crowd at a festival. Still, it’s worth a visit for its unique vibe and unbeatable energy.
$ – Smart Camden, St Christophers Inn
$$ – The Wesley, Sonder Camden Road
Notting Hill – Notting Hill is one of those neighborhoods that hardly needs an introduction. Famous for its pastel-colored houses and the iconic Portobello Road Market, it’s a charming and peaceful part of London. The area has a relaxed vibe, making it a great choice if you’re looking for somewhere calm to stay. Plus, it’s just a stone’s throw from Holland Park, Hyde Park and Kensington gardens – perfect for morning strolls or picnics on a sunny day.
$ – Blue Bells Hotel, Wedgewood hotel
$$ – The Laslett, Portobello Hotel
$$$ – The Laslett, Double Tree by Hilton
Canary Wharf – Canary Wharf is the best location to stay if you’re into sleek, modern architecture and enjoy the finer things in life. This great area is filled with luxury hotels, a huge shopping center, and plenty of riverside restaurants where you can relax with great food and views. While it’s well-connected to the rest of the city via the DLR and Jubilee Line, it’s a bit further out, so getting to central London takes a little longer. That said, it’s a fantastic spot if you’re in town for an event at the ExCeL, as it’s just a short journey away. It’s also a good location for business travelers.
$ – Point A hotel, Travelodge London Docklands Central
$$ – Novotel London Canary Wharf, Hilton London Canary Wharf
$$$ – London Marriott Hotel Canary Wharf, Canary Riverside Plaza Hotel
Fitzrovia – Fitzrovia is one of those neighborhoods that feels like the perfect balance between residential charm and city buzz. Its streets are lined with independent restaurants, cozy pubs, and hidden galleries, giving it a laid-back yet creative vibe. It’s also super central – just a short walk from oxford street for shopping or the British Museum for a dose of culture. It’s a convenient location with plenty of great spot to find best hotels
$ – Yha London Central, Astor Court Hotel
Greenwich – Greenwich is a family-friendly neighborhood that feels like a little escape from the hustle of central London. It’s packed with history and beautiful monuments, like the Cutty Sark, the Royal Observatory, and Greenwich Park. The area is also close to the Royal Arsenal, adding to its historical charm. While it’s a bit further out and takes more time to get to the city center, the journey is worth it for the peaceful atmosphere and scenic surroundings.
$ – Ibis London Greenwich, The Angerstein Hotel
$$ – DoubleTree by Hilton London Greenwich, Novotel London Greenwich
Airport Hotels
If your flight is landing late at night or you have an early morning departure, staying at a hotel near the airport might be a good idea. It can save you the hassle of traveling into the city late or rushing in the early hours to catch your flight.
Hotels near London Heathrow
- Sofitel London Heathrow – connected to Terminal 5 via a covered walkway.
- Hilton Garden Inn – connected to Terminal 3
- Hilton London Heathrow Airport – Connected to Terminal 4 by a covered walkway.
- Aerotel London Heathrow – connected to Terminal 3
- Premier Inn London Heathrow Airport (Terminal 4) – Adjacent to Terminal 4.
- Holiday Inn Express London Heathrow T4 – Short walk from Terminal 4.
- Radisson Blu Edwardian Heathrow – 5-minute drive from the airport.
- Renaissance London Heathrow Hotel – Close to the runways, about 5 minutes from Terminals 2 and 3.
Hotels near London Gatwick
- Sofitel London Gatwick – Connected to the North Terminal via a covered walkway.
- Hampton by Hilton London Gatwick Airport – Directly connected to the North Terminal.
- Bloc Hotel London Gatwick Airport – Located within the South Terminal.
- Hilton London Gatwick Airport – Connected to the South Terminal by a covered walkway.
Hotels near London Stansted
- Radisson Blu Hotel London Stansted Airport – Connected to the terminal via a covered walkway
- Hampton by Hilton London Stansted Airport – Directly connected to the terminal,
- Holiday Inn Express London Stansted Airport – About 2.6 miles from the terminal, with a shuttle bus service.
Hotels near London Luton
- Holiday Inn Express London Luton Airport – About a 10-minute walk from the terminal
- Ibis London Luton Airport – Approximately a 10-minute walk to the terminal
- Courtyard by Marriott Luton Airport – Less than 500 meters from the terminal,
No matter what kind of trip you’re planning, London has accommodation options for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a hotel in the city center of London to be close to the action, hotels with a pool to unwind after a day of exploring, or wondering where to stay in London with kids for a more family-friendly vibe, there’s a neighborhood and place to match your needs.
For those on a budget, you can find cheap hotels to stay in Soho, London without sacrificing location, or even check out the best hostels to stay in Central London for a social and affordable experience. On the other hand, if you’re after charm and quiet, there are plenty of great areas to stay in London that offer a more relaxed pace.
London is a city that truly has it all, so wherever you choose to stay, you’re sure to have an unforgettable time. Happy travels!
