Whatever your preferences when you go on a city break, it is almost guaranteed that London has something for you.
The world-famous UK capital is well established as one of the most exciting and entertaining holiday destinations anywhere on the planet, frequently featuring in lists of the best cities in the world. In 2023, the metropolis welcomed a staggering 20 million international visitors cementing its position as a tourist hotspot.
However, one downside to visiting London is the huge expense that often comes with it. As one of the world’s most expensive cities, visiting London can leave your wallet feeling much lighter than it felt before you arrived.
This doesn’t have to be the case though. By following these money saving tips the next time you visit, you might find that you don’t have to break the bank to have a good time. In fact, you might stumble upon something amazing that you won’t find in any tourist guide.
Eat off the beaten path
Eating out when you’re in London is always one of the most enjoyable parts of the trip, with the city boasting some of the finest and most diverse food establishments you can find.
Whether it’s classic British grub you’re after or one of the many international cuisines available in abundance in the city, whatever you can think of London has it. Remember that restaurants and cafes on the main tourist spots like the Southbank and Piccadilly Circus will likely charge a premium to dine in such famous surroundings and often the food quality does not match the inflated prices.
Instead, go off the beaten path and find the places where real Londoners eat. These places will always be cheaper and will most definitely taste better. Brick Lane for Indian food, Camden Market for street food and Brixton for Caribbean food are all great budget friendly food destinations.
Make the most of the free attractions
While many famous tourist attractions in London charge steep prices for their offerings, some of the city’s best experiences are in fact free.
The British Museum, Tate Modern Art Gallery, National Gallery and Natural History Museum are world-renowned cultural destinations providing visitors with hugely interesting and engaging exhibitions that anyone is guaranteed to enjoy. And most importantly they are free!
Furthermore, London is home to a wealth of beautiful parks, famous landmarks and historic streets waiting to be explored at no cost. All you need is the shoes on your feet.
If you do feel like you need a guide, no problem. You will find several companies providing free cultural walks throughout the city giving visitors expert insights into London’s rich history.
Look out for deals, discounts and bonuses
Whatever you are doing when you get to London, make sure to keep an eye out for any deals, discounts or bonuses that are available. If you want to see all the famous sites, consider purchasing a London Pass which can save you up to 49% on attractions.
If you’re someone who likes a flutter and fancies trying your luck on your favourite online games while you’ve got some spare time, make sure to head to Casino.org to get the best UK online casino bonuses.
While the fancy casinos in Kensington may turn your head, if you want to save some money, playing online is probably your best bet. If you fancy heading to the West End to see a show, make sure to ask at the ticket booth to see if there are any same-day discounted tickets, particularly for matinee performances.
Swap your hotel for a hostel
City breaks in London are always packed to the brim with thrilling activities and experiences with it likely that you will spend most of your time away from your accommodation.
Unlike other holidays where a luxurious bedroom and high-quality amenities is essential for an enjoyable experience, all you really need in London is a comfortable bed, a shower and importantly, a central location. Choosing budget hostels over more pricey hotels is therefore a great way to save some money on accommodation which can then be used to see more attractions.
Furthermore, hostels such as the YHA at St Paul’s provide visitors with an unbelievable location close to many of the city’s most famous sights at a fraction of the price of London’s city centre hotels.
Take advantage of the public transport
London is home to one of the largest most efficient public transport systems in the world, boasting the famous London Underground, an extensive network of buses as well as environmentally friendly bicycle-sharing scheme Santander Cycles.
By simply tapping on using your contactless card visitors can use the tube freely through the day, with the price for a day of travelling capped at under £10 within the central zones. Wherever you want to travel in the city, there will be an underground station nearby, so it is a super-efficient way to get around.
Alternatively, the iconic red London buses cost as little as £1.75 for a single fare and as a 24/7 service, they are particularly convenient after a late night exploring the city’s bars and restaurants.
Following these five tips is a great way to get on the right path to a budget-friendly London trip. Even if you don’t rigorously follow all of them, using them as a guide will guarantee you are able to enjoy this amazing city without going overboard with your money.
Ultimately, by making sure you plan ahead and book the things you want to do in advance, you start on the right footing. From there, be smart with your choices and avoid falling into the tourist trap.