As one of the most visited cities on the planet, there are a gazillion things to do in London. If you’re looking for the best areas to stay in London as a tourist, look no further – we’ve got you covered! Whether you’re after history and culture, or want to be in the thick of the action, these neighbourhoods will make sure your trip is unforgettable. So read on and choose your favourite spot today!

1- Camden

Camden Town in London is a bustling borough full of history, character, and an eclectic mix of people. From its iconic markets to its lively nightlife, there is something to suit everyone’s taste. 

Camden is also home to some of the capital’s best museums and art galleries, making it the perfect place to while away a rainy day. 

However, it’s not all history and culture – Camden is also home to some of London’s most popular shopping streets, where you can find everything from vintage clothes to designer labels. 

If that’s not enough for the tourist in you, Camden also hosts the famous Camden Market- one of the most popular markets in London. The market is a veritable cornucopia of cheap trinkets, oddities, and kitschy souvenirs.

But Camden Market is more than just a place to pick up a few cheap gifts for your friends back home. It’s also a great place to people watch, as the market attracts all sorts of interesting characters.

Whether you’re looking for a new outfit, a tasty bite to eat, or simply want to soak up the atmosphere, Camden Market is definitely worth a visit. Just be sure to haggle with the vendors – that’s half the fun!

And when you need a break from all the excitement, there are plenty of green spaces to relax in. So whether you’re looking for a day of retail therapy or a leisurely stroll through one of London’s most vibrant neighbourhoods, Camden has something to offer and is an excellent choice for tourists.

2- Notting Hill

A film was made in the nineties about a bookshop owner who falls in love with a film star who comes to hide out in his shop after being chased by the paparazzi. 

It’s called Notting Hill and it’s set, you guessed it, in the lovely area of London known as Notting Hill. 

It’s an adorable film and, if you’ve ever been to London, you’ll know that it’s an accurate portrayal of the area. 

The streets are full of colour, the shops are eclectic and charming, and there’s a real feeling of community spirit. It’s no wonder that it’s such a popular place to live. So, if you’re ever in London, be sure to visit Notting Hill. You might just fall in love with it too.

Notting Hill is also known for its annual street fair, The Notting Hill Carnival. 

The Carnival is a lively event that features music, dancing, and brightly colored costumes. It is attended by thousands of people each year and has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in London.

 

Notting Hill is also home to many boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. The neighbourhood has a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, and its residents are generally friendly and welcoming.

If you’re looking for a place to enjoy some good food and good company, Notting Hill is definitely worth a visit.

3- Covent Garden

Covent Garden is a neighbourhood in Central London that is beloved by tourists and locals alike. The area is home to dozens of shops, restaurants, and pubs, as well as the famous Covent Garden Market. 

Visitors can find everything from fresh produce to handmade jewellery at the market, and the nearby shops offer a variety of goods ranging from antiques to designer clothes. 

Covent Garden is also home to a number of theatres and museums, making it an ideal destination for a day of exploring. 

Despite its popularity, Covent Garden manages to retain its small-town charm, making it one of the most unique and enjoyable places to visit in London.

4- Soho

Soho is one of the most vibrant and diverse areas of London, and it has something to offer everyone. 

Whether you’re looking for a bustling nightlife scene or a more relaxed atmosphere, you’ll find it here. The streets are lined with bars, clubs, and restaurants, and there’s always something going on. 

It’s also home to some of the best shopping in the city, with everything from high-end boutiques to vintage stores. And if you need a break from the hustle and bustle, there are plenty of parks and open spaces to explore. 

So whatever you’re looking for, Soho is sure to have it.

5- Mayfair

Mayfair is one of the most exclusive and expensive districts in London, and it is easy to see why. The area is home to some of the city’s best-known hotels, restaurants, and shops, and its streets are lined with stately townhouses and elegant mansions. 

There is a feeling of old-world charm in Mayfair, and it is easy to imagine oneself transported back to a time of aristocrats and opulent balls. 

Of course, not everyone can afford to live in Mayfair, but that doesn’t stop its residents from enjoying the good life. With its central location and superb amenities, Mayfair is the perfect place to call home – if you can afford it.

6- Whitechapel

Whitechapel is a district in East London that has been home to many different communities over the years. 

It was first settled by the Anglo-Saxons, and later became a centre of Jewish immigration in the late 19th century. Today, Whitechapel is best known for its association with the Jack the Ripper murders of 1888. 

However, there is much more to this fascinating district than its gruesome history. Whitechapel is also home to a number of excellent museums, including the Museum of London Docklands and the Whitechapel Art Gallery. 

It is also a popular destination for food lovers, with a wide range of international cuisine on offer. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or food, Whitechapel is a great neighbourhood to stay in.

7- London Square Mile

The London Square Mile is a small area located in the heart of the city. It is home to some of the most iconic buildings in London, including St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Bank of England. 

Despite its small size, the Square Mile is a hive of activity, with thousands of people working in its many office buildings and shops. The area is also popular with tourists, who come to marvel at its architecture and history. 

So what makes the London Square Mile so special? Perhaps it is its unique mix of old and new, or its central location which makes it the perfect base for exploring all that London has to offer. Whatever the reason, there is no doubt that the London Square Mile is a fascinating place to visit.

8- Kensington

Kensington is a neighbourhood in the city of London that is known for its high-end shops and expensive real estate. 

It is also home to Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarchy. Despite its privileged reputation, Kensington has a dark history. 

In the 19th century, it was known for its squalid slums and crime-ridden streets. Today, however, it is a much different place. 

The neighbourhood has been gentrified, and its residents are some of the wealthiest people in London. 

If you’re ever in Kensington, be sure to visit some of its landmarks, including Kensington Palace and Hyde Park. But don’t spend too much money – after all, it is one of the most expensive places in London!

9- Southwark

Southwark is a borough of London, located on the south bank of the River Thames. It’s home to a number of famous landmarks, including Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and the Tower of London. 

It’s also home to a number of lesser-known treasures, such as the Golden Hinde, a replica of the ship that Sir Francis Drake sailed around the world in. Southwark is a popular tourist destination, but it’s also a great place to live. 

If you’re a foodie looking for your next culinary adventure, look no further than Southwark. This vibrant borough is home to some of London’s best restaurants, markets, and food festivals. 

From Michelin-starred dining to traditional street food, there’s something for everyone in Southwark. And with so much to explore, you’ll never be short on things to do. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and stay in Southwark for the foodie experience of a lifetime.

It has a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous pubs, bars and restaurants. It also has excellent transport links, with two underground stations and a number of bus routes. So if you’re looking for somewhere to stay in London as a tourist, be sure to check out Southwark.

10- Shoreditch

Shoreditch is a neighbourhood in London with a long history of art and culture. It’s been home to many famous artists, including Banksy and Damien Hirst, and it’s also known for its vibrant street art scene. 

These days, Shoreditch is one of the trendiest parts of London, and it’s full of hipster bars, vintage shops, and trendy restaurants. But it’s not all fashion and art; Shoreditch is also a great place to explore if you’re interested in history or architecture. 

The neighbourhood is home to some of London’s oldest buildings, including the Grade I listed Christ Church Spitalfields. So whether you’re looking for a night out on the town or a day of exploring, Shoreditch is the perfect place to start.

11- King’s Cross

King’s Cross is a London neighbourhood with a long and storied history. Once a bustling hub of industry and travel, the area fell into decline in the second half of the 20th century. 

In recent years, however, it has undergone a remarkable transformation, becoming a vibrant centre of culture and nightlife. 

The neighbourhood is home to some of London’s most popular bars and clubs, as well as a number of trendy restaurants and shops. It is also well-connected to the rest of the city, with good public transportation options. 

Whether you’re looking for a night out on the town or a quiet place to relax, King’s Cross is an ideal destination.

12- Chelsea

Chelsea is a neighbourhood in southwestern London known for its fashionable residents, high-end shopping and elegant architecture. 

Once home to a community of aristocrats and intellectuals, Chelsea has long been associated with wealth and privilege. 

In recent years, the neighbourhood has become even more exclusive, as property values have soared and luxury brands have moved in. 

Nevertheless, Chelsea remains a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, drawn to its beautiful buildings, leafy parks and trendy bars and restaurants. 

Whether you’re window-shopping on King’s Road or people-watching in Sloane Square, there’s much to see and do in this chic corner of London.

13- Paddington

Paddington is a leafy district in west London, located within the Royal Borough of Westminster. The area is home to a diverse population, with a strong community spirit. It’s no wonder, then, that Paddington is such a popular place to live. 

The area has excellent transport links, with two main railway stations and busy mainline stations. There are also good schools and hospitals, and plenty of green space. 

Paddington is also home to some of London’s most iconic landmarks, including Buckingham Palace and Hyde Park. With its mix of history, culture and community, it’s no wonder that Paddington is one of the capital’s most popular districts.

14- Spitalfields

Spitalfields is a neighbourhood in London with a long and storied history. Once a rural hamlet outside the city limits, it became home to waves of immigrants in the 17th and 18th centuries, attracted by the opportunities afforded by the nearby port of London. 

Today, the neighbourhood is once again transforming, as young professionals are drawn to its trendy shops and restaurants. But despite the changes, Spitalfields retains its unique character, with narrow streets and historic buildings that give it a distinctly European feel. 

Spitalfields Market has been a London landmark for over 300 years. Originally a fruit and vegetable market, it has since been transformed into a bustling centre for fashion, food, and culture. 

The market is open seven days a week, and there is always something new to see and do. Whether you’re looking for the latest trends or simply want to enjoy some delicious street food, Spitalfields Market is a great place to visit while in London. And with over 200 stalls to choose from, you’re sure to find something to suit your taste. 

So whether you’re looking for a taste of Old London or a glimpse of the city’s newest trends, Spitalfields is an amazing neighbourhood to stay in London as a tourist.

How to find a place to stay in London

Even if you find the perfect neighbourhood for yourself, not finding the right accommodation can put a dampener on your trip. Luckily for you, London has a huge selection of rental properties. On the flip side, the city is a tourist hotspot and anything worthwhile gets booked before you can blink. We recommend finding a place to stat at least a few months ahead.

Airbnb and Hotels.com are good options for tourists who don’t intend to stay for more than a few days. For short term rentals and serviced apartments in London, Homelike is our go-to option.

Budget travellers should check out Hostelworld and couchsurfing. You may also be able to find great travel and accommodations deals on sites like Tripadvisor and Kayak