London

About London

London is Europe's largest and most diverse city. London is also the political, economic, and cultural heart of the United Kingdom. For the visitor, London can be overwhelming and thrilling. Culturally, London is filled with world-class museums, galleries and institutions, from the Royal Opera House to the British Museum to the Tate Modern. Don't forget London's traditional landmarks – Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, St Paul's Cathedral, and the Tower of London. There is also much to be enjoyed from just walking through the city taking in the majestic, historical city, wandering though the narrow streets of the City of London, its quiet Georgian squares, the walks along the Thames riverside, and the quirky collection of villages.

London is a shopping mecca as well, from Harrods to the offbeat markets of Portobello Road in Notting Hill, the grungy shops of Camden, and stately Greenwich. Then there is the London theater, dance troupes, art exhibitions, and opera. London is quickly gaining world-wide renown, with London now being on par with more well-known European gastronmic rivals like Paris. After dinner, visitors can wind down with a pint at one of the city's numerous, quaint pubs.

When to Travel to London

London summers are moderate, experiencing average temperatures of about 64 degrees. It gets a bit chilly in spring and autumn, with temperatures falling to between 52 to 59 degrees. Since London has a relatively temperate client, winters are comparatively mild, with average temperature of about 43 degrees. London experiences cloudy weather and rain during most searsons. Most international visitors favor the summer because of warmer weather and chance for seeing some sun in a city that can often be rainy and dreary. The spring sees fewer visitors overall, so this season is a good time to get deals on cheap flights or package deals to London. Winter is the least popular time, due to cold temperatures and heavy rain. But, try to avoid London in December when domestic visitors flock to London for the school holidays and to enjoy some of the best Christmas shopping in the world.

Cheap Flights to London

London has a well-earned reputation for being one of the world's most expensive cities, so visitors will want to compare airfare to London from multiple carriers and cheap hotel options while in London to ensure that you're getting the best deal possible. London's primary international airport is Heathrow (LHR), but depending on your origin you might find lower airfare into London's smaller Gatwick or Stansted airports. London is served by almost every major U.S. airline, including American Airlines and United Airlines, as well as notable British carriers like British Airways, Virgin Atlantic. As a major tourist and business destination, as well as a gateway for international visitors moving onto continental Europe, the plethora of options should allow most savvy travelers to find cheap flights to London and cheap hotels in London, particularly during the off-season.