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.
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 LHRStep 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 LondonStep 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 LondonStep 4 — Sort your airport transfer
Heathrow Express (to Paddington) is £28 and takes 15 min. Pre-book a private transfer for stress-free arrival.
LHR arrival guideBefore 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.