London has a reputation for being an expensive city. And we’re not going to lie to you: yes, it can be. But it’s also true that there are plenty of ways to enjoy it without breaking the bank, especially if you know the local tips, the free attractions and what things actually cost.
As guides who live here, we know exactly where your money goes when you’re visiting: accommodation, transport, meals, admission fees… That’s why we’ve put together this guide with a realistic budget and useful tips to help you make the most of your trip to London without burning a hole in your wallet.
Quick answer: London is an expensive city…
Yes, London is an expensive city, particularly when it comes to accommodation and transport. However, with good planning, you can visit London for around €100–150 per person per day, including accommodation, transport, food and activities. What’s more, there are plenty of free attractions and ways to save money.
How much does it cost to travel to London? A breakdown of the budget
Let’s break down the budget into basic categories so you can see how much you’d spend on a 3- to 5-day trip.
1. ACCOMMODATION IN LONDON
- Economy (hostel or basic hotel): €50–90 per night
- Mid-range (3-star hotel): €100–160 per night
- Luxury (city centre or 4–5-star): from €200 per night
Local tip: Staying in areas with good transport links but not right in the centre (such as Greenwich, Hammersmith or Stratford) keeps costs down and gives you easy access to the city centre by tube or train.
2. TRANSPORT
- Oyster Card or contactless: around 7–10 £ per day (8–11.5 €) if you’re getting about a lot
- Zone 1–2 weekly pass: 42.70 £ (around 50 €)
- Free walking tours: free (with a voluntary tip)
Top tip: The Underground has a daily cap. Use your Oyster card or contactless card, and avoid buying single tickets. And if you can, walk: London is best enjoyed on foot.
3. MEALS
- Local breakfast (coffee and something sweet): €5–8
- Fast food or pub meal: €12–20
- Dinner at a mid-range restaurant: €20–35
- Supermarket shopping / picnic in the parks: from €5–7
Realistic plan: Alternate between pubs, street food (Camden, Borough Market) and the odd special restaurant. And remember: tap water is safe to drink and free everywhere.
4. ACTIVITIES AND TICKETS
- Museums such as the British Museum, Tate and the National Gallery: free
- Tower of London, London Eye, Madame Tussauds, etc.: £30–40 per ticket
- Musicals: from £25–80
- Guided tours in Spanish: €20–35 per themed tour
Local tip: Prioritise free cultural experiences and choose 1 or 2 paid attractions that really interest you. And book online in advance!
Budget per person
| Category | Low budget | Mid-range | High-end |
| Accommodation | 60 € | 120 € | 200 € + |
| Transport | 8–10 € | 10 € | 15 € |
| Meals | 20 € | 30 € | 50 € |
| Activities | 5–15 € | 20–40 € | 50 € + |
| Total/day | ~95 € | ~150 € | ~300 € o más |
Tips for saving money in London without missing out on anything
Make the most of the free museums – some of the best in the world are in London… and they’re free. Eat like a local: try street markets, dishes to share or a picnic in the parks. Use public transport wisely: walk, combine the Underground and buses, avoid rush hour and make the most of daily travel caps. Book online in advance – many prices are lower if you book online, even for major attractions.
Frequently asked questions about whether London is an expensive
Is London more expensive than other European capitals?
Yes, it’s usually more expensive than Madrid, Rome or Berlin, especially when it comes to accommodation and transport. But it has far more free things to do than other cities.
How much do I need per day for a standard trip?
With around €120–150 a day, you can get about easily, stay in a decent hotel, enjoy good food and go on an interesting visit or tour.
What is the most expensive thing in London?
Accommodation. Especially if you’re looking for a central hotel. The best way to save money is to research your accommodation carefully and use an Oyster card or contactless payment for travel.
Is it possible to visit London on a tight budget?
Yes. With good planning and by prioritising free or low-cost options, you can enjoy London on around €90 a day.
In conclusion…
Yes, London is an expensive city… if you don’t know your way around. But if you travel armed with local knowledge, you can enjoy it without missing out on anything important. And if you want to get off to a good start, understand the city from the inside and make the most of your time, we recommend joining one of our English-language tours of London.
You’ll discover the essentials, the curiosities and the authentic side… without paying over the odds.
