Planning a trip to London can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry—most travelers have the exact same questions! We’ve compiled the 50 most frequently asked questions about visiting the UK capital, providing fast, clear answers to help you plan your itinerary, master the Tube, and save money.
Planning & Logistics
1. How many days do I need in London? Answer: A minimum of 3 full days is needed for the major highlights (Tower, Westminster, National Gallery). 5 days allows you to explore diverse neighborhoods and museums comfortably.
2. When is the best time to visit London? Answer: Spring (April–May) and Autumn (Sept–Oct) offer the best balance of mild weather, moderate crowds, and decent prices.
3. What is the cheapest month to visit London? Answer: January and February consistently offer the lowest prices for flights and hotels, as the Christmas rush is over and crowds are thinnest.
4. What is the weather like? Answer: Famously unpredictable! Expect mild temperatures, wind, and rain year-round. Layers are essential.
5. Is London expensive? Answer: Yes, accommodation and dining are expensive. However, almost all major museums are free, and public transport is cheap and capped.
6. Do I need a visa to visit the UK? Answer: This depends entirely on your passport and length of stay. Check the official UK government website well in advance.
7. Is London safe for tourists? Answer: Yes, London is very safe, especially in central tourist areas. The main risk is petty theft (pickpockets), especially on crowded public transport.
8. Where is the best area to stay for first-timers? Answer: Covent Garden/Soho (for entertainment and central access) or South Kensington (for museums and elegance) are top choices, though pricier.
9. Do I need to book attractions in advance? Answer: YES. You must book tickets in advance for all timed attractions (e.g., Tower of London, London Eye) and for free timed slots (e.g., Sky Garden) to guarantee entry and save money.
10. What’s the time zone? Answer: Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) in winter, and British Summer Time (BST) during the summer months (March–October).
Transport & Getting Around
11. What is the best way to get around London? Answer: The London Underground (The Tube) for speed and the Bus Network for sightseeing.
12. How do I pay for public transport? Answer: Use your contactless credit/debit card or mobile payment (Apple Pay/Google Pay). This automatically applies the cheapest fare and the daily/weekly price cap.
13. Do I need an Oyster Card? Answer: No, unless you specifically need to load a travel pass (like a 7-Day Travelcard) or are eligible for a discount. Contactless payment works just as well.
14. What is the golden rule of the Tube? Answer: Stand on the right, walk on the left on all escalators.
15. How do I get from Heathrow Airport (LHR) to Central London? Answer:
-
Cheapest: Piccadilly Line (Tube) – approx. £5.60, 60 mins.
-
Fastest: Elizabeth Line – approx. £11.30, 30–40 mins.
16. Are Black Cabs expensive? Answer: Yes, they are metered and very expensive for long journeys, but convenient for short trips or when the Tube is closed.
17. Is it safe to take the Tube at night? Answer: Yes, the Tube is very safe. The Night Tube runs 24 hours on selected lines (Friday and Saturday).
18. Do kids pay for public transport? Answer: Children under 11 ride free on buses, Tube, and Overground when traveling with a fare-paying adult.
19. Should I rent a car in London? Answer: No. Driving is difficult, parking is expensive, and you may be subject to the expensive Congestion Charge. Public transport is superior.
20. What is the difference between the Tube and the DLR? Answer: The Tube is the subway system. The DLR (Docklands Light Railway) is an automated, driverless light railway serving East/South-East London.
Attractions & Sightseeing
21. Are the major museums really free? Answer: YES! Entry to the permanent collections of the British Museum, National Gallery, V&A, and Natural History Museum is free.
22. What are the three must-see attractions? Answer: The Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and the British Museum.
23. When is the best time to see the Changing of the Guard? Answer: Typically at 11:00 AM on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at Buckingham Palace. Arrive at least 45 minutes early for a good view.
24. Can I go inside Buckingham Palace? Answer: Only during the Summer Opening (July to September) when the State Rooms are open to the public.
25. Where can I get the best free view of London? Answer: The Sky Garden (must book free ticket) or Tate Modern (Level 10 Viewing Terrace).
26. Is the Harry Potter Studio Tour worth it? Answer: Yes, for fans. Book months in advance as it is located outside the city (Leavesden).
27. What is the best food market? Answer: Borough Market (for gourmet food) or Camden Market (for street food variety).
28. How long does it take to climb the dome of St Paul’s Cathedral? Answer: The climb involves over 500 steps and takes about 30–40 minutes to reach the Golden Gallery.
29. Where is Platform 9 ¾? Answer: At King’s Cross Station. There is a famous photo op and an official shop.
30. Which West End show should I see? Answer: For a first-timer, The Lion King (spectacle) or Les Misérables (classic drama).
Food & Drink
31. What are the best traditional British dishes to try? Answer: Fish & Chips, Sunday Roast (only available on Sunday), and a Full English Breakfast.
32. Is tap water safe to drink? Answer: YES. London’s tap water is perfectly safe and excellent quality.
33. What is the cheapest food hack? Answer: The Supermarket Meal Deal (sandwich/wrap, snack, drink) from Tesco or Sainsbury’s for under £6.
34. Do I need a reservation for Afternoon Tea? Answer: Yes, for all major hotels (The Ritz, Claridge’s, etc.), usually booked weeks or months in advance.
35. What is the drinking age? Answer: The legal drinking age in the UK is 18.
36. Is it rude not to tip in London? Answer: No, it’s not considered rude. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Check your bill—a service charge (10–15%) is often already included in restaurants.
37. What is a “Full English Breakfast?” Answer: A plate containing eggs, back bacon, sausage, baked beans, tomato, mushrooms, and often black pudding and toast.
38. Where can I find a cheap pint of beer? Answer: Look for Wetherspoon pubs (a national chain) for reliably low prices.
Practical & Cultural
39. Do I need cash in London? Answer: No, London is virtually cashless. Contactless cards are accepted everywhere, even by street vendors and buskers. Carry a small amount (£20–£40) for tips or emergencies.
40. What voltage do you use? Answer: The UK uses 230V, and you need a Type G plug adapter (three rectangular prongs).
41. What should I pack? Answer: Layers, layers, layers. Comfortable walking shoes, a light waterproof jacket, and a compact umbrella are essential year-round.
42. Is it difficult to find Wi-Fi? Answer: No. Free Wi-Fi is widely available at public libraries, Tube stations, coffee shops, and pubs.
43. What’s the etiquette for crossing the street? Answer: Look Right, then Left. Traffic flows on the left. Always wait for the “Green Man” crossing signal.
44. Where is the best place to shop? Answer: Oxford Street (high-street chains), Regent Street (premium flags), and Covent Garden (boutiques/gifts).
45. What is the currency? Answer: The Great British Pound (£).
46. What is the famous phrase for the London Underground? Answer: “Mind the Gap.”
47. Is it easy to find a public restroom? Answer: Not always. Your best bet is major, free national museums or department stores.
48. Is London diverse? Answer: Extremely. London is one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world, with over 300 languages spoken.
49. How far in advance should I book my theatre tickets? Answer: 2–4 months for popular shows. Use the TKTS booth in Leicester Square for same-day discounts.
50. What should I do if my flight is delayed? Answer: Check the TfL Go App for real-time updates on Tube lines, as most transport lines run from early morning to midnight.