Planning a trip to London and not sure where to stay? We want to help by explaining which neighborhoods are the best and which hotels to consider. We’re London experts, so you can trust we know the best hotels and where to stay in London.
The Best Things to See in London in 2025 (Travel Guide)
The Best Areas to Stay in London
Think of London as a patchwork of villages—each with its own vibe, pace, and perks. The Tube keeps most of them well-connected, but where you stay can still shift your whole experience. There’s no single “best area to stay in London.” Match your base to your travel style:
Top Hotels in Marylebone, Fitzrovia, Mayfair & Soho
These central neighborhoods are all about elegance and energy. Expect elegant terraces, flagship fashion houses, and enough cocktail bars to fill a week.
Why Stay in Marylebone, Fitzrovia, Mayfair, and Soho
Staying here means you’ll start and end your days where London is most alive, with everything from morning espresso to evening cocktails just outside your door.
Easy access to major sights: Walk to the British Museum, Carnaby Street, and Regent’s Park—all within 10 to 15 minutes.
Food and fashion central: Dozens of excellent restaurants, historic pubs, and designer shops line nearly every block.
Soho stays noisy: Some streets get rowdy at night, but that’s what gives the neighborhood its infectious energy.
Hotels in Marylebone, Fitzrovia, Mayfair, and Soho
The Marylebone Hotel ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Pool • Stylish Location • Luxe Rooms
A polished, five-star stay just minutes from Bond Street shopping and Soho nightlife—great for couples or chic weekenders.
Just beyond central London’s bustle, these neighborhoods pair royal history with modern style. The Kensington Gardens, Michelin-starred restaurants, and King’s Road are all within strolling distance, while the Piccadilly‑line trains run direct from Heathrow.
Why Stay in Kensington, Chelsea & Earl’s Court
It’s a great base if you want comfort, elegance, and a slightly slower pace—all while staying well-connected to central London.
Great for museum lovers and history fans: Iconic institutions like the Natural History Museum and V&A are right around the corner.
Posh but approachable: You’ll find everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy brunch cafés within walking distance.
Not in the middle of it all: A quieter vibe makes it perfect for families or longer stays.
Hotels in Kensington, Chelsea & Earl’s Court
The Exhibitionist Hotel ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Design Detail • Luxe Bedding • Romantic Vibe
Bold, boutique, and perfect for a stylish weekend getaway, it’s tucked just behind the Natural History Museum in chic South Kensington.
Great for families and longer stays, this hotel combines cozy, classic architecture with practical extras like mini kitchens and family-friendly layouts.
Top Hotels in Leicester Square & Trafalgar Square (West End)
In the heart of London’s West End, Leicester Square and Trafalgar Square are where the city’s biggest shows, busiest streets, and most famous landmarks converge. It’s packed with world-class theatres, iconic galleries, and lively nightlife—all just steps from the Tube. You can walk to Covent Garden, Piccadilly, or Chinatown in minutes.
Why Stay in the West End
Staying in the West End puts you right where the action is—perfect for theatergoers, first-timers, and anyone who wants to skip the commute.
Walk to everything: From Oxford Street shopping to gallery hopping, you’re always just a few steps away.
Never boring: With bars, markets, and pop-up events, there’s always something happening—day or night.
It’s not exactly peaceful: If you’re okay with the energy (and occasional noise), it’s one of the city’s most exciting places to stay.
Hotels in London’s West End
Club Quarters Hotel Trafalgar Square ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Business-Friendly • Free Parking • Prime Location
In the heart of Trafalgar Square, this modern hotel is perfect for business travelers who want fast Wi-Fi and easy sightseeing access.
Top Hotels in Whitechapel Near Tower of London (The City)
Whitechapel is one of the most historic—and most lived-in—parts of town. It’s the best area to base yourself if you want to explore the Tower of London by day and feast on international street food by night. Plus, multiple Tube lines make getting anywhere else in the city super simple.
Why Stay in Whitechapel
Whitechapel makes a great base for travelers who want history, culture, and comfort without the crowds and cost of central London.
Quick access to major sights: Walk to Tower Bridge, hop on the Tube, or dive into East London’s art galleries and museums.
A foodie’s paradise: You won’t go hungry with Whitechapel’s mix of traditional British pubs and multicultural dining options.
Not polished, but perfectly safe: It may not look like a postcard, but it’s one of East London’s safest areas and full of personality.
Hotels in Whitechapel
Leonardo Royal London Tower Bridge ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Skyline Views • Indoor Pool • Great Location
Big rooms, sweeping city views, and a full wellness center make it perfect for couples or solo travelers wanting a step up.
Set along the Thames and adjacent to London’s royal parks, Westminster offers easy access to the city’s most photographed sights. Think Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey—all close enough to visit without ever opening a map. It’s a quiet, upscale area served by excellent transit connections and beautiful boulevards.
Why Stay in Westminster
If you’re coming to London for its historic grandeur and royal history, Westminster makes it easy to experience both in style.
Close to the crown jewels of sightseeing: Walk to Downing Street, the Houses of Parliament, or The Mall in under 10 minutes.
Well connected but low-key: Great for couples, solo travelers, and anyone seeking a refined, less touristy base.
More posh than budget: You won’t find a lot of cheap stays here—but the tradeoff is timeless elegance.
Hotels in Westminster
St James’ Court, A Taj Hotel ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spa Access • Classy Vibe • Traveler Favorite
A longtime guest favorite with refined interiors, pampering spa treatments, and a peaceful courtyard right in the middle of the action.
Just across the river from Westminster, South Bank is a creative district packed with arts venues, scenic walking paths, and dramatic architecture. You’ll pass red carpet events at the BFI, pop into the National Theatre, or stroll toward the Tate Modern in minutes. Waterloo Station anchors the area and makes everything feel connected.
Why Stay in South Bank, London
Staying in South Bank is a great option because it offers that rare London mix of river views, cultural depth, and easy sightseeing on foot.
Ideal for arts lovers: Home to the BFI Southbank, the National Theatre, and several modern art galleries, including the nearby Tate Modern.
Walkable to major landmarks: Head west to Westminster Bridge for the London Eye or east along Bankside toward Shakespeare’s Globe and Tower Bridge.
Brutalist backdrop: It isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but it makes the leafy riverside paths and twinkling nighttime views all the more striking.
Hotels in South Bank
Sea Containers London ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Riverside Views • Rooftop Bar • Art Deco Style
A design-forward hotel that mixes Art Deco flair with unbeatable Thames views—perfect for date nights, cocktails, and sunsets.
On the south bank of the Thames between Southwark and Tower Bridge, London Bridge and Borough deliver that perfect London mix of history, food, and walkability. Highlights include ancient ruins, foodie hotspots, and charming streets that feel like a step back in time.
Why Stay near the London Bridge
Choosing a base here drops you into centuries of history and the capital’s most mouth‑watering food scene.
Sightseeing in a cluster: Wander from Southwark Cathedral to the Golden Hinde, Winchester Palace, and Tower Bridge in one easy loop.
Market magic: Early risers hit Borough Market before the crowds, scoring pastries and flat whites straight from local artisans.
Midday hustle means character: Lunchtime queues can be long, yet the lively buzz keeps the neighbourhood feeling deliciously alive.
Party people: Soho and the West End are nightlife central.
Best Tours and Experiences in London
London’s big. Really big. Taking a guided tour can help you make sense of it all—plus, you’ll get behind-the-scenes stories, fast-track entry to popular sights, and a local’s take on what not to miss. It’s an easy way to get more out of your trip, especially if you’re short on time.
Steer clear of suburban zones unless you’re visiting friends or have a specific reason to stay there. Neighborhoods on the city’s edges, like Hounslow or Romford, mean long commutes, limited food options, and fewer late-night transit choices. If you’re here to explore, staying central is worth it.
Where To Stay in London FAQs
What’s the best area to stay in London for first-time visitors?
The West End is ideal for first-timers thanks to walkability, top attractions, and tons of restaurants.
Where should families stay in London?
Kensington and Earl’s Court offer quiet streets, museums, and space for kids to roam.
Is it better to stay near the London Eye or Tower of London?
Both are great—but South Bank (near the Eye) is more scenic and walkable for most travelers.
What’s the most romantic area to stay in London?
Westminster and South Bank are perfect for couples, with riverside walks and historic charm.
Where can I stay in London on a budget?
Try Whitechapel, Earl’s Court, or near London Bridge for cheaper rates in central locations.
What’s the safest area to stay in London?
Westminster, Kensington, and South Bank are among the safest, with good lighting and reliable transport.
Is it worth staying near Heathrow or Gatwick?
Only if you have an early flight—otherwise, central London is much better for sightseeing.
How many nights should I stay in London?
Three to five nights is ideal to see major sights, explore neighborhoods, and not feel rushed.
Is public transport reliable in London?
Yes, London’s public transport is excellent. Stay near a Tube station for the easiest access.
Final Thoughts
Where you stay in London sets the tone for your entire trip, whether it’s riverside strolls, West End shows, or lazy mornings near Borough Market. Pick a neighborhood that fits your vibe, then let the Tube do the rest. With the right base, the whole city feels effortlessly at your feet.
