Where to Stay in London 2026 | Best Areas + Hotel Map
London is huge—choosing the right area saves hours of commuting. Central London (Zones 1-2) costs more but puts you within walking distance of key sights. The Tube connects everything, so staying slightly out can save significant money.
Editor's Pick for First-Timers
South Kensington / Earl's Court
Excellent Tube connections, walking distance to Hyde Park and museums, good restaurants, and more affordable than Westminster. Easy Piccadilly Line to Heathrow.
Covent Garden
Westminster
South Bank
Shoreditch
Kensington
Notting Hill
Quick Guide: Best Areas
Things to Know
- • Immediately around King's Cross/Euston stations - fine during day but less pleasant at night
- • Hotels on main roads (Bayswater Road, Cromwell Road) can be noisy
- • Far Zone 3-4 areas save money but add 30+ min each way to commute
Understanding London Geography
London spreads from the River Thames. The West End is the heart of entertainment, the City is the financial core, and South Bank offers riverside culture. The Tube network defines the city into 9 zones.
Accommodation Map
Check availability and prices across Booking.com, Vrbo, and more.
Best Neighborhoods in London
Westminster
Best for: Royal palaces, Parliament, historic landmarks, government
"Grand and historic"
Pros
- Walk to Big Ben
- Royal parks nearby
- Iconic views
Cons
- Few budget options
- Limited nightlife
- Touristy
South Bank
Best for: Thames walks, markets, Tate Modern, entertainment venues
"Cultural and riverside"
Pros
- Walkable cultural venues
- Borough Market
- River views
Cons
- Fewer hotels
- Can be crowded weekends
Shoreditch
Best for: Street art, vintage shops, nightlife, tech startups, hipster culture
"Trendy and edgy"
Pros
- Best nightlife
- Great street food
- Local vibe
Cons
- Far from West End
- Noisy weekends
Kensington
Best for: Museums, Hyde Park, elegant streets, upscale dining
"Elegant and refined"
Pros
- Free museums
- Beautiful streets
- Safe area
Cons
- Expensive
- Far from nightlife
Covent Garden / West End
Best for: Theatre district, shopping, restaurants, street performers
"Vibrant and theatrical"
Pros
- Best theatre access
- Great restaurants
- Central location
Cons
- Very expensive
- Crowded
- Tourist-heavy
Camden
Best for: Markets, live music, alternative culture, canal walks
"Alternative and eclectic"
Pros
- Amazing markets
- Live music scene
- Good value food
Cons
- Crowded weekends
- Can feel touristy
- North of center
Notting Hill
Best for: Pastel houses, Portobello Road, antiques, village charm
"Charming and photogenic"
Pros
- Beautiful streets
- Great cafés
- Saturday market
Cons
- Expensive
- Touristy on weekends
- Limited hotels
King's Cross / St Pancras
Best for: Transport hub, Eurostar, regenerated area, Harry Potter platform
"Modern regenerated railway district"
Pros
- Best transport links
- Eurostar access
- Trendy new area
Cons
- Less atmospheric
- Busy commuter feel
- Some rough edges
Accommodation Budget in London
Budget
Hostels, budget hotels, shared facilities
Mid-Range
3-star hotels, boutique stays, great locations
Luxury
5-star hotels, suites, premium amenities
💡 Prices vary by season. Book 2-3 months ahead for best rates.
Our Top Hotel Picks
€ Best Budget Hotels
Generator London
King's Cross
Industrial-chic hostel in a former police station with rooftop bar and great common areas. Private rooms available.
The Z Hotel Soho
Soho
Compact but stylish rooms with free wine hour and excellent West End location. Great value for central London.
€€ Best Mid-Range Hotels
The Hoxton, Shoreditch
Shoreditch
The original Hoxton hotel that started the affordable-cool revolution. Exposed brick, great lobby, and excellent restaurant.
The Resident Soho
Soho
Boutique apartments with kitchenettes in the heart of Soho. Perfect for longer stays with self-catering option.
Ham Yard Hotel
Soho
Firmdale's colorful boutique with bowling alley, rooftop terrace, and hidden courtyard. Quintessential London style.
€€€ Best Luxury Hotels
The Ned
City of London
Soho House's grand hotel in a 1924 Lutyens-designed bank. Rooftop pool, multiple restaurants, and members' club atmosphere.
Claridge's
Mayfair
The quintessential London luxury hotel since 1856. Art Deco elegance, legendary afternoon tea, and unmatched service.
✦ Unique & Boutique Stays
The Zetter Townhouse Clerkenwell
Clerkenwell
Eccentric Georgian townhouse with cocktail lounge, quirky antique-filled rooms, and neighborhood restaurant scene.
Smart Booking Tips for London
- 1 Book 4-6 weeks ahead for best rates; London prices are unpredictable
- 2 Summer and Christmas are peak season - book early and expect premiums
- 3 Check if breakfast is included - London hotel breakfasts are expensive
- 4 Many hotels in converted townhouses have steep stairs and no lift
Why you can trust this guide
We built this guide using recent climate data, hotel price trends, and our own trips, so you can pick the right month without guesswork.
Ready to Visit London?
Book your flights, accommodation, and activities
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best area to stay in London?
How much does a hotel cost in London?
What are the main neighborhoods to stay in London?
Are there areas to avoid in London?
When should I book a hotel in London?
More London Guides
Weather
Historical climate averages to help you pick the best time to visit
Best Time to Visit
Month-by-month weather and seasonal tips
Things to Do
Top attractions and hidden gems
Overview
Complete travel guide for London: top things to do, itineraries, and typical costs.