Last updated: 22 October 2026

London Travel Guide

London is one of the most visited cities in the world: free museums, huge parks, shopping, and events all year round. This guide covers what you need before you travel and after you arrive.

Visas and the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)

What you need depends on your nationality:

• If your country does not need a visa for the UK: Such as the Gulf states, the EU and the US, you need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before you travel. Without it, you will not be allowed to board. This includes Qatari citizens since 25 February 2026.
• If your country needs a visa: Apply for a visitor visa on the UK government website well before you travel.
• If you hold a British or Irish passport: You need neither.

ETA details:

• Fee: £20, non-refundable.
• Validity: Two years, or until your passport expires if that is sooner. You can use it for several trips.
• Length of stay: Up to 6 months per visit.
• Processing time: Usually within a day, and up to 3 working days, so apply well before you travel.
• How to apply: Only through the official UK ETA app or the UK government website, gov.uk. Beware of websites that charge higher fees.

Flights

• Main airport: Heathrow, with direct flights from most capitals in the world.
• Other airports: Gatwick, Stansted and Luton, often used by low-cost airlines.
• From the Gulf: A direct flight takes about 7 hours.

From the airport to the city

• Heathrow Express: Reaches Paddington station in about 15 minutes.
• The Elizabeth line: Cheaper, and stops at many stations in central London.
• Private car: Best for families and travellers with lots of luggage.

Best time to visit

Rain is possible at any time of year, so bring an umbrella or a light coat.

Where to stay

• Knightsbridge and Mayfair: Luxury and high-end shops, close to Hyde Park.
• Kensington: Quiet and family-friendly, close to the big museums.
• Paddington and Edgware Road: Close to the airport train, with many restaurants, including Arabic ones.
• Westminster and the South Bank: Next to the most famous sights, on the River Thames.

Getting around London

• The Tube and buses: The fastest way to get around.
• Paying: Tap your bank card or phone at the gate, with no need to buy tickets.
• Driving: We don't recommend renting a car in central London because of traffic, entry charges and parking.

Top sights

• Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament: On the River Thames, next to the London Eye.
• The British Museum and the Natural History Museum: Both free to enter.
• The Tower of London: Home to the Crown Jewels.
• Hyde Park: Hosts a winter festival with rides and markets.
• Oxford Street and Harrods: For shopping.

Internet

An eSIM bought before you travel works as soon as you land in London.

Quick tips

• Currency: The pound sterling. Cards are accepted almost everywhere.
• Electricity: Plug type G, with three pins, so bring an adapter if your plug is different.
• Traffic: Cars drive on the left, so take care when crossing the street.
• Book early: Book summer accommodation early, as prices rise as the date gets closer.

Plan your trip with Kawkab

Tell the Kawkab assistant how many days you have and who you are travelling with, and it will arrange a daily London itinerary with accommodation and transport.

Last updated: October 2026. This information is for guidance only. Check the entry requirements on the official website before you travel.

Sources:

• UK government, apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation: https://gov.uk/eta/apply
• Qatar Tribune, ETA required for Qatari nationals from 25 February 2026: https://www.qatar-tribune.com/article/220960/latest-news/qatari-nationals-to-require-eta-for-uk-travel-from-feb-25-2026

Some links in this guide are partner links. We may earn a commission when you book through them, at no extra cost to you.