Guide · 1 Places

London

United Kingdom

Before You Go

When to Visit

May to September offers warmest weather (15-23°C/59-73°F) though rain possible. Spring and fall have fewer crowds. Winter is cold and dark but magical with Christmas lights.

Visa

Check requirements

US, Canadian, Australian, EU citizens can visit UK visa-free for up to 6 months. UK not in Schengen - separate immigration. Check gov.uk/check-uk-visa.

Getting There

Transportation

By Air: Heathrow (LHR), Gatwick (LGW), Stansted (STN), Luton (LTN) airports.

By Train: Eurostar from Paris (2.5 hours), Brussels (2 hours) to St Pancras.

Language

Communication

English is official language.

Currency

Money matters

British Pound (GBP). Rate: ~£0.75-0.80 per USD. Cards accepted everywhere, very cashless.

Getting Around

Local transport

Underground (Tube): Extensive 11-line system. Oyster card or contactless (£2.50-5 depending on zones).

Buses: Comprehensive network (£1.75 flat fare).

Walking: Central London very walkable.

From the Airport

Arrival info

Heathrow: Tube Piccadilly Line (50 min, £5.50), Heathrow Express train (15 min, £25), or taxi (£60-80).

Gatwick: Gatwick Express train (30 min, £19.90) or Southern trains (35 min, £10-12).

Cultural and Artistic Venues

Cultural and Artistic Venues

Barbican Centre

Brutalist arts and performance complex