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How to Plan a Trip to London

The complete 2026 guide — flights, hotels, things to do and airport transfers, all in one place. Everything a first-time visitor to UK needs.

Fly into
LHR
Country
UK
Suggested stay
3–5 days
Base yourself
Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens

Your 4-step London plan

Step 1 — Book flights to LHR

Heathrow Airport (LHR) is the main gateway to London. Compare fares across major airlines and OTAs before locking a date.

See flight deals to LHR

Step 2 — Pick a neighborhood

Base yourself in Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens for the best first-time visit — Free royal park adjacent to Paddington.

Where to stay in London

Step 3 — Plan your itinerary

Start with Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens, then build outward. Most first-time visitors need 3-5 days to see the highlights of London.

Things to do in London

Before you book — visa check

UK is not Schengen. US, EU, AUS, Canadian — visa-free up to 6 months. ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) required for US/EU visitors from 2025 — apply via UK government site.

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Compare London hotels

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More London guides on AirConnect

Things to Do in London
Top attractions + local tips
Where to Stay in London
Best neighborhoods for hotels
London Layover Guide
3h, 6h, 12h, 24h layover itineraries