London

London is served by six airports: Heathrow (LHR), Gatwick (LGW), Stansted (STN), Luton (LTN), London City (LCY) and Southend (SEN). Heathrow is closest to the centre and handles most long-haul flights; the others are further out and used heavily by low-cost and European carriers. The airport you choose changes both transfer time and cost, so compare the whole journey, not only the flight.

Rail links are the fastest option: the Piccadilly line and Elizabeth line plus Heathrow Express from Heathrow, Gatwick Express and Thameslink from Gatwick, Stansted Express from Stansted, and Luton DART with rail services from Luton. London City connects directly to the Docklands Light Railway.

May to September brings the longest days and the most outdoor events, while November to February is cold, dark early and generally cheaper for accommodation. Rain is possible in any month, so a light waterproof layer is useful year-round.

Inside the city, the Underground, Overground, Elizabeth line, buses and river services cover almost everything. Contactless cards and phones work directly at the gates with daily and weekly caps, so a separate travel pass is rarely necessary. Walking between central neighbourhoods is often faster than changing lines.

Free permanent collections are one of London's strongest points: the British Museum, National Gallery, Tate Modern, Natural History Museum and Victoria and Albert Museum all charge nothing for entry. Paid highlights include the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, the London Eye and, in summer, Buckingham Palace State Rooms. Book timed tickets ahead for the busiest ones.

Practical notes: the currency is pounds sterling (GBP) and card payment is standard, with many places no longer taking cash. Traffic drives on the left, which matters when crossing roads. Check your own entry requirements, including any electronic travel authorisation, with an official source before you travel.