Find the perfect place to stay in London, whether you're seeking luxury five-star hotels, boutique gems, or budget-friendly hostels. Our guide covers the best accommodation options across every London neighborhood and price range.
Where to Stay in London
London offers accommodation for every taste and budget, from iconic five-star hotels with royal histories to stylish boutique properties and excellent hostels. The key to a great London stay is choosing the right area and the right type of accommodation for your trip. This guide helps you navigate your options and find the perfect base.
Luxury Hotels
London's luxury hotel scene is among the finest in the world. The Ritz on Piccadilly has been the definition of British elegance since 1906. Claridge's in Mayfair offers Art Deco glamour and impeccable service. The Savoy on the Strand combines Edwardian grandeur with Thames views. For modern luxury, The Shard's Shangri-La hotel offers rooms above the 34th floor with breathtaking city panoramas.
Expect to pay £400-1,000+ per night for five-star properties in central London. Many offer afternoon tea, spa services, and Michelin-starred dining on site.
Boutique & Design Hotels
London excels at boutique hotels with personality. The Hoxton chain offers stylish rooms in Shoreditch, Holborn, and Southwark at surprisingly reasonable rates. Mama Shelter in Shoreditch brings Parisian cool to East London. The Ned near Bank station occupies a stunning former banking hall with multiple restaurants and a rooftop pool. Artist Residence in Pimlico offers creative, individually designed rooms.
Budget around £150-350 per night for boutique properties.
Mid-Range Hotels
For comfortable, well-located stays without the premium price tag, chains like Premier Inn, Travelodge, and Hub by Premier Inn offer reliable rooms across London. CitizenM hotels at Tower of London and Bankside combine modern design with affordable prices. Z Hotels provide compact but stylish rooms in prime central locations.
Expect £100-200 per night depending on location and season.
Budget Accommodation
London has excellent hostel options for budget travellers. The Generator Hostel near King's Cross is one of Europe's largest and most social hostels. YHA London St Pauls and YHA London Central offer clean, safe rooms in prime locations. Wombat's City Hostel in Whitechapel provides modern facilities at backpacker prices.
Dormitory beds start from £20-35 per night; private rooms from £60-100.
Best Areas to Stay by Travel Style
First-time visitors: Westminster, South Bank, or Covent Garden — close to major sights and well-connected by tube.
Nightlife seekers: Soho, Shoreditch, or Camden — where the bars and clubs are.
Families: Kensington — near free museums and Hyde Park, with a residential feel.
Budget travellers: East London, King's Cross, or Bayswater — better value with easy tube access.
Business travellers: The City, Canary Wharf, or Mayfair — close to financial districts.
Booking Tips
Book early for the best rates, especially during peak season (June-August) and around major events. Prices drop significantly in January-February and November. Check if your hotel is near a tube station — this saves enormous amounts of time and money. Many hotels offer better rates when booking directly rather than through aggregator sites. Always check the London weather forecast when planning — rainy days are better spent at well-located hotels near indoor attractions.
