Planning a trip to London can be challenging, especially when it comes to finding a place to stay. With many neighborhoods to choose from, each offering something different, looking for accommodation in London can be terrifying. When I lived in London for many years, so I got to live in almost every corner of the city. Now I can tell you what each area offers.
I stayed in most of the recommended hotels and can vouch for them. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to write me a comment!
Best Areas to Stay in London – Guide for 2023
There is no universal ‘best’ neighborhood to stay in London since all sights are spread out. There’s also no downtown as such, and much depends on your interests and budget. London is generally a safe place, no matter where you stay. There’s no such thing as a ‘no-go’ zone in London.
Similarly, the best hotels in London are not located in one neighborhood. It’s easy to find great luxury accommodations in most areas of London.
For Those in a Rush Here’s a Quick Summary. For Detailed Descriptions Keep Reading 😉
- Best Neighborhood for Sightseeing in London: South Bank
- Best Neighborhood in London for Nightlife: Soho & Camden
- Best Neighbourhood in London for Families: Victoria & Marylebone
- Best Neighborhood in London to Stay for First Timer: Covent Garden
- Most Romantic Neighborhood in London: Mayfair, Notting Hill & South Kensington
- Best Neighborhood in London for a Local Vibe: Camden & Shoreditch
- Best Neighbourhood for Ethnic Food: Anywhere in East London.
Best Hotels to Stay in London:
Best Luxury Hotels in London
St Pancras Renaissance Hotel • Ace Hotel Shoreditch • Sofitel St James • Hotel Cafe Royal
Best Mid-Range Hotels in London
41 • Sea Containers • San Domenico House • Bloomsbury Hotel
Best Boutique Hotels in London
Dawson Place • Gower House Hotel
Best Cheap Accommodation in London
Corus Hyde Park • Generator London
Getting to Know Different Districts of London
The first issue with London is that districts aren’t always named the same everywhere. While it’s easy to get oriented in other big European cities like Paris, where districts (arrondissement) are numbered, but London is divided in a different way.
Officially, the city of London is a small part of London you expect (marked white on the map below). Trafalgar Square, Big Ben, London Eye or any other iconic landmarks aren’t even part of it.
The City is now only a tiny part of the metropolis of London, though it remains a notable part of central London. Administratively, it forms one of the 33 local authority districts of Greater London; however, the City of London is not a London borough, a status reserved for the other 32 districts (including London’s only other city, the City of Westminster).
Colloquial Districts of London
You might want to ask where is the West End area, as you’ve probably heard about it. West End is actually not an official geographical or municipal definition, but a term used colloquially by Londoners. Therefore the exact constituent parts are up for debate.
Depending on the person, the ‘zones’ of London can be divided differently and hold different names. Further on, I’ll be referring to the most used names of the districts and the closest major tube stations nearby.
How to Get Around London
Before we delve too deeply into descriptions of different areas, let’s introduce you to the transport system. Don’t get intimidated by London tube map – it’s easier to navigate than it looks like and it’s perfectly safe. Here are a few things you should know:
- Hotel shuttles from airports are rare. Taxi or Uber from the airport is insanely expensive. I don’t recommend taking private transportation unless you arrive exhausted in the middle of the night.
- London has a great public transport system. It’s safe and usually works great (and it if doesn’t there’s always a replacement bus right away). But, not all tube stations have elevators and you might have to drag your suitcase up the stairs.
- You have to buy an oyster card (a refillable transport card) in order to use the buses and tube now. Unless you have a touch card. You can buy these for £5 in multiple tube stations or the airport.
- Alternatively, if you’re planning on visiting many attractions, consider getting a London Pass. It gives you access to many London’s top attractions and hop-on hop-off bus ticket.
Where to Stay in London
To directly skip to selected neighborhoods, click on links below.
- The West End (Covent Garden, Soho, Leicester Square, Oxford Street)
- Victoria
- South Bank
- City of London
- Westminster
- Paddington, Bayswater & Marylebone & Maida Vale
- Notting Hill & Hammersmith
- Bloomsbury and Fitzrovia
- Hyde Park (Chelsea, Kensington, Knightsbridge)
- King’s Cross & Camden Town
- East London (Shoreditch, Brick Lane)
- Canary Wharf
- Greenwich
- Wimbledon
Also Check:
Unusual and Cool Places to Eat in London
Tips for Visiting London for First Time Visitors
The West End (Covent Garden, Soho, Leicester Square, Oxford Street)
A vibrant district full of theaters, shops, pubs, clubs, landmarks and shopping opportunities.
- Covent Garden/Soho – Where all the nightlife is happening. During the day Covent Garden has live music, performers, and markets.
- Chocolate Shops
- Theaters – Buy tickets here
- Trafalgar Square
- Oxford Street Shopping – Most shopping you could want in London
- West End Shows. Currently playing: The Wicked, The Lion King, Mamma Mia, Matilda, Chicago, Thriller, Les Miserables, Alladin, Kinky Boots, Phantom of the Opera
Recommended Places to Stay:
I stayed at this hotel for 2 nights and visited for an afternoon tea. The location couldn’t have been more perfect and the standard of accommodation was surely satisfying. The only minus is that rooms have no balconies, but if you’re looking for a centrally located spot, you won’t regret booking here.
Check Prices On:
There aren’t many budget places in this area, not even a hostel, so your best bet would still cost about $100+ per night. While it’s not for a backpacker budget, you pay for the location.
Check Prices On:

Victoria
A busy commuter area with a Royal feel.
- Buckingham Palace
- St James’s Park & Hyde Park
- James Bond movie locations
Recommended Places to Stay:
This hotel is surely stylish. Nestled behind Buckingham Palace and close to Victoria Train & Bus station, it serves delicious food at the lounge and looks like a traditional London club.
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Clean and modern hostel just 2 minutes walk from Pimlico Underground Station. For a small price you can get a comfortable place to sleep.
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South Bank
Sensational public attractions and spectacular people watching along the banks of the Thames.
- London Eye
- London Aquarium
- London Dungeon
- Big Ben & Parliament
- Westminster Abbey
- Borough Market
- Globe Theatre
- Southbank Centre
- The Shard

City of London
Busy suited streets of a location that’s full of rich history.
- Tower of London
- St. Paul’s Cathedral
- Tate Modern
- Barbican
- Jack the Ripper haunted spots
Westminster
History is etched into the stones of this neighborhood.
- Big Ben & Houses of Parliament
- Buckingham Palace
- Westminster Abbey
- St. James’ Park
- Churchill War Rooms
Paddington, Bayswater & Marylebone & Maida Vale
These swanky London neighborhoods feel less crowded despite the central location.
- Sherlock Holmes Museum
- Little Venice
- Madame Tussauds

Notting Hill & Hammersmith
Quaint streets and rustic townhomes earn this west London neighborhood its cinematic credentials.
- Portobello Road Market
- Hyde Park

Photo by Victor Guidini.
Bloomsbury and Fitzrovia
College district with many gardens. Where history, creativity, and the latest trends form a unique cultural fusion.
- British Museum – Where the mummies are. One of the free museum of London.
- UCL – One of the major colleges in London.
- British Library
Hyde Park (Chelsea, Kensington, Knightsbridge)
This stylish central London neighborhood works hard, plays hard, and shops hard. Elegance permeates the air.
- Harrods – The luxurious shopping mall.
- Victoria & Albert Museum
- Natural History Museum
- Kensington Palace – Where William & Kate live.
- London Zoo
- Winter Wonderland (during the winter)

King’s Cross & Camden Town
The alternative, underground music venues, and street markets challenge the norm.
- Camden Market
- Platform 9 3/4
- Highgate Cemetery
- The Stables Market
Recommended Places to Stay:
Probably the most photogenic hotel in London. The hotel appeared in Harry Potter, Spice Girls’ music video, and many other things.
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I stayed at Generator on a few occassions and it never disappointed. Modern, clean, beds have curtains. It’s surely not a party hostel where you can’t sleep, everyone was respectful.
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East London (Shoreditch, Brick Lane)
A creative haven for artists and designers.
- Ethnic Food
- Street Art
Recommended Places to Stay:
Ace is a modern hotel that’s definitely worth the money you pay for a night. The hotel bar downstairs is excellent, so you actually don’t even need to leave the hotel as many locals go there on Saturdays.
Check Prices On:
This hostel has a great vibe and offers hostel-sponsored bar crawls that will let you meet people in an easy way.
Check Prices On:
Canary Wharf
Greenwich
Timeless architecture combined with a quiet but elegant atmosphere.
- Greenwich Village
- O2 Area
- Royal Observatory
- The Maritime Museum
- Various Movie Locations
Wimbledon
Don’t even think about it, unless you’re going to London for an event hosted in Wimbledon or Royal Ascot. It’s too far from everything. The only thing that’s nearby is the Wimbledon Stadium.
Other Things to Note About London
Make sure which room are you booking at any hotel. Smaller hotels and guesthouses often have shared bathrooms, unless the room is listed as ‘en suite‘.
London might seem expensive at first, but if you drink during happy hour, look for discount codes, and use other money saving tricks, it can be affordable.
Nightlife starts and ends early in London, or anywhere in the UK really. Pubs and bars usually close at 11 PM (10 PM on Sundays) while the food is usually served until 9-9:30 PM. If you’re planning on going out leave early. Many posher nightclubs require registration online, so make sure you get on that guest list before heading to a fancy place.
Arrange your travel insurance
Don’t forget to arrange health insurance before heading to London. The easiest and the most reliable travel insurance is World Nomads Travel Insurance. Get it before your trip to avoid unnecessary troubles that might ruin your holidays!


Do you have any questions about London neighborhoods? Are you thinking of staying in some areas I haven’t listed here? Let me know in the comments below!
Julie Ann Gramoll
Saturday 20th of November 2021
We are staying in a flat down the street from The Hercules and Lambeth North Station. First time visitors to London with 2 1/2 days to hit the highlights. Recommendations on the best way to get around? Walkable to Big Ben, the Eye, London Tower, Churchills meeting area, Kensington Palace, etc.? Also, best market for fish and chips.
Anna Karsten
Monday 22nd of November 2021
Tube :) You can walk to Big Ben and walk along the Thames but tube will be your friend to get around.
Norman
Wednesday 12th of February 2020
Hello Anna, I am visiting London for the 1st time on 2nd of May with my spouse and friend all in our late 20s. Our plan is to visit Stamford Bridge to watch the match that Saturday but also do some light sightseeing and enjoy the nightlife for the weekend. On Monday and Tuesday finish off the sights then off to the airport :(
Which neighborhood do you most recommend to stay? Thanks in advanced
Anna Karsten
Friday 14th of February 2020
Depends on what do you want to see. Covent Garden, Camden anywhere in Soho is always good for nightlife.
Michael Tsipursky, MD
Sunday 9th of February 2020
Hi Anna, Visiting London in March with my 11 yo son and his 11 yo friend and his dad. Was looking at Soho vs Camden vs south bank for apartment rental for a week. Covent garden seems a bit away from main attractions. Want to see sights but also want to be part of a vibrant neighborhood although with little guys will not need much night life. Suggestions? Best Mike
Anna Karsten
Sunday 9th of February 2020
What do you wan to do/see? Covent Garden is pretty central. I'd probably skip Camden with the little one and also tons of nightlife but unlike in Covent Garden it's edgier and weird. South Bank would be my preferred choice I think.
Olivia
Sunday 29th of December 2019
Hi Anna,
Thank you for such a budget-friendly blog post. I'm really excited to follow all these instincts while I'm moving London the coming next week woohoo :)
Jeff
Tuesday 17th of December 2019
My son is going abroad to London Metropolitan University and we will go to visit him in April. I have a 15 year old, 19 year old and me and my wife. Thought it would be easier to stay somewhere near the University but want to make sure it is safe and a good place to stay. What are your thoughts? Love the idea of Kensington or Notting Hill but not sure how far away that is? If around the school is not good what are good places to stay at a reasonable distance?
Anna Karsten
Tuesday 17th of December 2019
Are you just going to visit him, or do you want to enjoy sightseeing too? The area near London Met is fine, but there's nothing to do there. I'd probably say stay elsewhere for sightseeing :)