Flying Into London

On the majority of flights departing from the U.S., you'll find yourself landing at Europe's busiest airport: London-Heathrow (LHR). Nonstop options to Heathrow are offered by numerous airlines like flag-carrier British Airways and US-based, American, United, and Delta. Virgin Atlantic, Air Canada, and fifth-freedom routes from Air Tahiti Nui and Air India also provide nonstop service from North America to the massive four-terminal international hub.

London's second largest airport Gatwick (LGW) is located south of the city and has nonstop options available on select British Airways and Virgin Atlantic routes. Low-cost carrier Norwegian and charter service from Thomas Cook/Condor also offer nonstop service to select destinations in North America.

Both airports offer rail and bus links to downtown London, while Heathrow is connected directly to the London Underground system via the Piccadilly Line.

Getting Around London

Hands down the best mode of transportation to get around London is by the Tube. London's vast Underground Tube network crisscrosses the city and makes getting to any destination in central London a cinch. For destinations not accessible by Tube, London's famous double-decker buses will get you to where you need to be.

If you're in a hurry or don't want to lug bags across town you can take another staple of London – its black cabs. Rates are high, but cabbies are required to know all the hundreds of streets in London, so you'll be guaranteed not to get lost.

Many landmarks in London are within walking distance of each other, and there are many sites to see along the way. So walking around downtown is the cheapest and most efficient way to get around in many circumstances. Just remember to look the opposite direction than you're used to when crossing the roads.

Things to Do in London

As a world-renowned cultural and historical hotspot there is no shortage of things to do in London. Famous historical sites like the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, St. Paul's Cathedral and Big Ben and Parliament are all must-see for most visitors to the English capital.

For those craving cultural experiences, London's West End houses all the award-winning plays and musicals performed among its numerous theaters. Art lovers can spend weeks in London's world-class galleries including the National Gallery, Tate Modern, and the Victoria & Albert Museum to name a few. The British Museum is home to some of the most famous artifacts and antiquities in the world and shouldn't be missed.

Travelers who want a dose of greenery in their city stay can visit London's Hyde Park, Kew Gardens, or Regent's Park. Another great way to spend time outdoors in London is with a leisurely stroll along the River Thames that bisects the city.

What to Know About London

London's climate tends to be temperate oceanic with colder summers and warmer winters than that in North America. Known for its fog and rain, spring and fall can bring extended periods of overcast skies. As the capital city, London is the most populous in England and is home to 8.7 million people. It is one of the most diverse cities in the world and leading global beacon regarding, finance, fashion, arts, and education. Famously said by Samuel Johnson, “When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life.”