Updated: April 18, 2026 • By Santorini Dave
My Favorite London Hotels
- 5-Star: The Connaught • The Savoy
- 4-Star: Ham Yard Hotel
- Boutique: Batty Langley’s
- Budget: Motel One • Z Soho
- For Families: Park Plaza Westminster
- For Couples: The Soho
- King’s Cross: St. Pancras Renaissance
- Victoria Station: DoubleTree Victoria
- Paddington: Hilton
- Airports: Sofitel Heathrow • Sofitel Gatwick
My wife and I in Covent Garden, London.
My Top Tips for London First-Timers
1. Use Contactless for Every Purchase
London is almost entirely cashless. You will use a card or mobile device with tap to pay functionality for nearly every transaction. In the UK, this is called contactless. From local coffee shops to the Tube, expect to tap your card or phone to pay. I recommend setting up Express Mode on your phone or watch so you do not have to wake the device at the transit gates. Also, notify your bank of your travel dates to ensure your card is not blocked.
2. One Card Per Person for Transport
I suggest skipping the physical Oyster card entirely. The easiest way to pay for the Tube, buses, and most trains is to tap your contactless card or phone at the yellow readers. The system automatically calculates the daily and weekly price caps, so you always get the best fare. Crucially: every traveler must have their own individual payment method. You cannot tap two people in using the same card or device. Remember to tap in and out on the Tube and trains, but only tap once when you board a bus.
3. Walk Between Close Stations
The Tube map is a diagram, not a literal map. In many parts of central London, walking is actually faster than taking the train. For instance, the walk between Leicester Square and Covent Garden takes about five minutes. Walking is the best way to discover London’s best neighborhoods like Covent Garden, Bloomsbury, and Soho. I find that you see much more of the city’s character when you stay above ground.
4. Group Your Sightseeing by Neighborhood
London is massive and traffic is heavy. The biggest mistake I see first-timers make is crisscrossing the city multiple times a day. Group your activities to save time. I recommend spending one day in Westminster for the Houses of Parliament and the Abbey, and another day in The City for the Tower of London and St. Paul’s Cathedral. This minimizes your time spent in transit.
5. Order Drinks and Food at the Bar
Visiting a pub is a quintessential London experience. Note that most traditional pubs do not offer table service. Find a table first, look for a table number, and then send one person to the bar to order and pay for your drinks and food. Some modern gastropubs may offer table service for formal meals, but if you are just there for a pint, head to the bar.
6. Book Timed Entry for Free Museums
London offers incredible free national museums like the British Museum, the National Gallery, and the V&A. While entry is free, most now require or strongly recommend pre-booked timed entry tickets. These can sell out during peak periods like summer or school holidays. Special exhibitions within these museums always require a separate paid ticket which I suggest booking weeks in advance.
7. Pack Layers and Prepare for Rain
The weather in London is highly unpredictable. You can experience three seasons in a single afternoon. I recommend dressing in layers that you can easily add or remove. A lightweight waterproof jacket is a necessity even in the summer. Above all, wear your most comfortable walking shoes. I often walk 10 to 15 miles a day when I am in the city.
8. Understand the Service Charge
Most restaurants in London add a discretionary service charge of 12.5 percent to the final bill. This is the tip. You are not expected to leave anything extra if this charge is already included. If the service was genuinely poor, you have the right to ask for the charge to be removed, though this is rare.
9. Take the Front Seat on a Double-Decker Bus
The Tube is efficient but you spend your time in a dark tunnel. For the price of a standard bus fare, you can get a scenic tour of the city. I recommend finding a red double decker bus and heading to the top deck, front row. Route 139 or Route 15 are excellent for sightseeing, passing through iconic areas like Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square, and St. Paul’s Cathedral.
10. Secure Tickets for Popular Sights Early
Major attractions like the Tower of London, the London Eye, and the Warner Bros. Studio Tour (Harry Potter) often sell out. If you want to visit the Sky Garden for free views, you must book the moment tickets are released, usually three weeks in advance on Monday mornings. I advise booking your top priorities as soon as your travel dates are confirmed.
11. Do Not Attempt to Drive
I strongly advise against renting a car in London. Between the Congestion Charge, the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) fees, and the lack of affordable parking, it is a logistical nightmare. The public transport system is world class and will get you everywhere you need to go more efficiently and for less money.
What is best area to stay in London for a first-time visitor?
For first-time visitors to London, staying in the West End, particularly in the Covent Garden neighborhood, is highly recommended. Renowned for its dynamic blend of history, culture, and entertainment, Covent Garden serves as a perfect base for exploring London’s numerous attractions. This area is famous for its historic market and lively streets, creating an energetic (and touristy) atmosphere that epitomizes modern London. From Covent Garden, you’ll find it easy to access many of the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Royal Opera House, Leicester Square, and the British Museum, as well as discovering charming hidden spots. Plus, its central location means excellent transport links, making it convenient to venture further across the city.
Hotels in Covent Garden (great for first-timers):
Covent Garden Hotel • ME London • NoMad London • One Aldwych • Resident Covent Garden • The Savoy • The Fielding
Covent Garden – Ideal for First-Timers
At the heart of Covent Garden lies the famous Market Building, an architectural marvel that dates back to the 19th century. Visitors can wander through the covered market, browsing the boutique shops and artisanal stalls that showcase an array of unique products, from handcrafted jewelry to fine teas. The market’s charming piazza serves as a gathering place for street performers, who entertain passersby with an eclectic mix of music, acrobatics, and comedy.
Just a short walk from Covent Garden, visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant theater scene of London’s West End. This renowned district is home to a plethora of world-class theaters that stage everything from long-running musicals to avant-garde plays.
In addition to the theater scene, Covent Garden offers easy access to several iconic London attractions. Trafalgar Square, a bustling public square that hosts art installations, cultural events, and political demonstrations, is just a short walk away. Nearby, visitors can explore the National Gallery, which houses a vast collection of European masterpieces, or the National Portrait Gallery, which showcases an impressive array of portraits of famous British figures.
For those interested in the literary and historical aspects of London, the British Museum and the Charles Dickens Museum (both in Bloomsbury) are within walking distance of Covent Garden. The British Museum is home to an unparalleled collection of artifacts from around the world, while the Charles Dickens Museum offers a glimpse into the life and work of one of England’s most beloved authors.
Food lovers will relish Covent Garden’s diverse culinary scene, which caters to a variety of tastes and budgets. From trendy street food vendors to Michelin-starred restaurants, the neighborhood offers an eclectic range of dining options. For those looking to unwind after a day of sightseeing, Covent Garden’s numerous traditional pubs and lively bars provide plenty of nightlife options.
What attractions are in Covent Garden or within easy walking distance?
Covent Garden Market in London.
• Covent Garden Market: A historic covered market that is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and street performers.
• Royal Opera House: A world-renowned performing arts venue that hosts opera, ballet, and other live performances.
• London Transport Museum: A museum that explores the history of London’s transportation system, featuring vintage buses, trains, and other vehicles.
• Somerset House: A beautiful neoclassical building that hosts art exhibitions, concerts, and other cultural events.
• National Gallery: A world-class art museum that features works by some of the most famous artists in history, including Leonardo da Vinci, Vincent van Gogh, and Rembrandt.
• British Museum: One of the largest and most comprehensive museums in the world, featuring a vast collection of artifacts and artworks from around the globe. Located in Bloomsbury and about a 12-minute walk from Covent Garden.
• The West End: A vibrant theater district that is home to some of the best shows and musicals in the world.
• Trafalgar Square: A historic square that is home to the famous Nelson’s Column and the National Gallery.
• Leicester Square: A bustling square that is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cinemas.
• Soho: A trendy neighborhood that is known for its nightlife, restaurants, and shopping.
What are good places to stay in or near Covent Garden, for first-timers to London?
The historic and iconic Savoy is the best luxury hotel in Covent Garden.
The Savoy: This fabulous hotel, situated near the banks of the River Thames, has been synonymous with luxury and elegance since its opening in 1889. With its opulent interiors, world-class dining options, and impeccable service.
Covent Garden Hotel: Located in the bustling heart of Covent Garden, this boutique hotel features a unique blend of contemporary design and classic British charm. The Covent Garden Hotel’s individually-designed rooms, stylish bar, and intimate screening room make it a popular choice for discerning travelers.
Strand Palace: Situated on the famous Strand, this historic hotel offers a prime location just steps from Covent Garden and Trafalgar Square. Strand Palace features comfortable, well-appointed rooms and a range of dining options, ensuring a pleasant and convenient stay in the heart of the city.
Fielding Hotel: Nestled in a quiet corner of Covent Garden, the Fielding Hotel provides guests with a cozy and intimate retreat. With its charming Georgian façade, tastefully-decorated rooms, and warm hospitality, this hotel offers a tranquil haven amidst the busy streets of central London.
Citadines Trafalgar Square Hotel: This aparthotel, located just a short walk from Covent Garden and the River Thames, offers spacious and well-equipped apartments, making it an ideal choice for families and longer-term visitors. With its modern amenities and convenient location, Citadines Trafalgar Square Hotel provides guests with a comfortable and flexible base for exploring the city.
One Aldwych: This contemporary luxury hotel, situated in a beautiful Edwardian building, features an impressive range of amenities, including a stylish lobby bar, an indoor pool, and a private screening room. One Aldwych’s elegant rooms and suites, combined with its prime location, make it a sought-after choice for travelers seeking a sophisticated stay in Covent Garden.
The Waldorf Hilton: A historic hotel with a rich heritage, The Waldorf Hilton offers guests a blend of classic British elegance and modern luxury. Located near Covent Garden and the West End, this hotel features beautifully-appointed rooms, a grand ballroom, and a range of dining options, ensuring a memorable stay in the heart of London.
The Henrietta Hotel: This boutique hotel, located on a quiet street in Covent Garden, showcases a unique blend of contemporary design and Art Deco-inspired elements. With its intimate atmosphere, attentive service, and stylish rooftop terrace, The Henrietta Hotel is a chic and fashionable choice for visitors to London.
The Z Hotel Covent Garden: This budget-friendly hotel offers compact yet stylish rooms, complete with modern amenities and comfortable furnishings. The Z Hotel Covent Garden’s central location and affordable rates make it a popular choice for travelers seeking a convenient and well-designed base in the heart of the city.
St. Martin’s Lane Hotel: This design-driven hotel, situated just a stone’s throw from Covent Garden and the West End, features bold and imaginative interiors by renowned designer Philippe Starck. With its striking design, spacious rooms, and lively bar, St. Martin’s Lane Hotel offers a unique and memorable stay.
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About Santorini Dave