London Trip Cost Calculator

Your London Budget at a Glance

London has a reputation as one of the world’s most expensive cities - and it’s partly true. But savvy travelers can explore the capital brilliantly on a budget thanks to free museums, excellent public transport, and diverse food options. Budget travelers can manage on $120-200 per day, mid-range travelers should expect $200-400 per day, and luxury seekers will spend $500+ per day.

Where Your Money Goes

Accommodation is by far the biggest expense - even budget hotels cost £80+ per night. Transport is actually reasonable with Oyster/contactless daily caps. Attractions are a pleasant surprise - most major museums are free. Food varies wildly from £4 meal deals to £100+ fine dining.

Budget Traveler Tips

Stretch your pounds by:

• Staying in Zone 2-3 hostels with good Tube connections (from £20-30/night)
• Eating supermarket meal deals for lunch (£3-4) and market food for dinner
• Using contactless payment for automatic daily fare capping
• Filling your days with free museums - the British Museum alone deserves a full day

Worth the Splurge

Even budget travelers should consider:

• One West End show (TKTS booth for same-day discounts)
• Afternoon tea at a historic hotel (Claridge’s, The Ritz)
• A proper Sunday roast at a good gastropub

Best Time to Visit for Value

January to March offers the best deals - hotel prices can be 40-50% cheaper than summer. November is also good value with Christmas lights but before the holiday price surge.

Avoid these expensive periods:

• Summer school holidays (mid-July to August)
• Christmas and New Year (prices peak December 20 - January 2)
• Easter week and UK bank holiday weekends
• Major events like Wimbledon, Notting Hill Carnival

Practical Money Tips

Tipping Culture

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. Round up taxi fares, leave 10-15% at restaurants if service charge isn’t included (check the bill - many add 12.5% automatically). Pubs: no tip needed when ordering at the bar.

Paying for Things

Contactless is ubiquitous - London is virtually cashless. Cards accepted almost everywhere including street markets. ATMs are free at banks; avoid independent ATMs that charge fees.

Tap Water

London tap water is excellent and safe to drink. Restaurants must provide free tap water on request. Carry a reusable bottle - many places have refill stations.

Getting There & Around

From Heathrow

• Heathrow Express: £10-25 (15 mins to Paddington, book ahead for cheapest fares)
• Elizabeth Line: £12.80 (35-45 mins to central London, modern trains)
• Piccadilly Line: £5.60 (50-60 mins, cheapest option)
• Taxi/Uber: £60-90 (45-90 mins depending on traffic)

Getting Around

The Tube is efficient but expensive without Oyster/contactless. Buses are cheaper and offer sightseeing. London is surprisingly walkable - many central attractions are within 20-30 minutes of each other on foot.