London is a fascinating city. However, choosing accommodation in this huge city can be quite confusing, especially if you are travelling there for the first time. Whether it is close to the centre, budget friendly, local vibe, close to the nightlife, etc. everyone’s accommodation preference is different. I have been to London 3 times and the last time I stayed for a long time due to my son’s summer school. Based on my experience, in this guide, I would like to write the best areas in London and the best hotel options.

Where to stay in London?

In general, you can stay anywhere in London within Zone 1-2. London is spread over a large area and wherever you stay, you will need to go somewhere by a vehicle. The public transport network in London is quite widespread and you can easily reach everywhere. According to your budget, I think you will be fine when you choose a hotel within zone 1-2, close to transportation. However, in order to have an idea, I will tell you about the 9 most suitable areas to stay in London for me.

Covent Garden

Covent Garden is right in the heart of London, a great option for those who want to walk to most places. Here you can feel the energy of the city more by staying among colourful cafes, street artists, theatres and boutique shops. For those who want to feel the cultural atmosphere of the city and those who come to London for the first time, I would recommend this region, but of course accommodation prices are generally high.

Covent Garden Hotel Recommendations

Budget Friendly Hotels in Covent Garden: The Z Hotel Covent Garden

Mid-Class Covent Garden Hotels: AMANO Covent Garden, The Resident Covent Garden

Luxury Hotels in Covent Garden: Radisson Blu Hotel Mercer, Covent Garden Hotel

Click here to see all available hotels in Covent Garden.

South Kensington

South Kensington is a paradise for history and culture lovers. You can stay close to important places such as the Victoria & Albert Museum, Natural History Museum and Science Museum. In addition, this area is ideal for families with children as it is very calm and safe. One of the entrances of Hyde Park is also in this neighbourhood. My son’s summer school was here and I rented a house nearby on my last visit. I recommend you to stay close to public transport to visit the touristic places easily.

South Kensington Hotel Recommendations

Budget Friendly Hotels in South Kensington: Hux Hotel, Ashburn Hotel, The Harrington

Mid-range South Kensington Hotels: Radisson Blu Hotel South Kensington, The Rembrandt

Luxury Hotels in South Kensington: The Ampersand Hotel, Milestone Hotel Kensington, The Gore London

Here is the link to the house I have booked.

Click here to see all the hotels in South Kensington.

Soho

If you are staying in the centre and want to have a lively London trip, Soho is perfect for you. Colourful bars, live music venues and alternative restaurants are all together here. The area can be a bit crowded and noisy, but if you like the energy of a city, I don’t think you will mind. I recommend this area for young travellers, couples and those who want to experience the fun side of London.

Soho Hotel Recommendations

Mid-range Soho Hotels: The Resident Soho, Karma Sanctum Soho Hotel

Luxury Soho Hotels: Ham Yard Hotel, Broadwick Soho

Click here to see all hotels in Soho.

Westminster

If you want to be close to the symbols of London such as Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, Westminster is one of the best options for you. It has advantages such as feeling the historical texture of the city and being close to the River Thames. I recommend staying in this area for those who come to London for the first time, those who want to travel like a tourist and those who want to be close to the most iconic places of the city.

Hotel Recommendations in Westminster

Mid-Class Westminster Hotels: citizenM London, The Westminster London

Luxury Westminster Hotels: The Goring, Rubens At The Palace, Taj 51 Buckingham Gate, The Guardsman

Click here to see all hotels in Westminister.

Notting Hill

For those who don’t know, it is one of the iconic romantic films starring Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts and must be watched before going to London. Notting Hill is one of the most charming areas of London with its pastel coloured houses. The market of Portobello Road, perhaps one of the most famous markets of London, is also located here. If you are not visiting for the first time, this area may be for you if you are looking for a quieter accommodation. There are many Airbnb alternatives. It is a little far from the touristic places, but there are many things to do and many dining options in the neighbourhood itself.

Notting Hill Hotel Recommendations

Budget Friendly Notting Hill Hotels: Ravna Gora

Mid-range Notting Hill Hotels: Ruby Zoe Hotel London, The Portobello Hotel

Click here to view all hotels in Notting Hill.

Mayfair

Mayfair is one of the many prestigious districts of London. It is an area full of popular cafes and restaurants and world brand stores. The most famous shopping streets such as Bond Street, Regent Street and Oxford Street are located here. It is also neighbouring the eastern entrance of Hyde Park. Especially shopping and luxury lovers should definitely stay in this area. Of course, this is one of the most expensive options for accommodation in London.

Mayfair Hotel Recommendations

Mid-range Mayfair Hotels: The May Fair – A Radisson Collection Hotel, Flemings Mayfair, The Mayfair Townhouse

Luxury Mayfair Hotels: Brown’s Hotel – a Rocco Forte Hotel, The Biltmore Mayfair, Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane

Click here to view all hotels in Myfair.

City of London

City of London is the oldest district of London and also the financial centre of the city. It is possible to see historical buildings among modern skyscrapers. Tower of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral and Leadenhall Market are located in this area. It is an ideal location for business travellers.

City of London Hotel Recommendations

Mid-range City of London Hotels: The City of London Club, Motel One London-Tower Hill, Novotel London Tower Bridge, Locke at Broken Wharf

Luxury City of London Hotels: Vintry & Mercer Hotel, Pan Pacific London, Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge, Cheval Three Quays at The Tower of London

Click here to see all hotels in City of London.

Southwark

Southwark is a neighbourhood on the south side of London, where historic and modern buildings meet. Cultural and gastronomic spots such as Tate Modern, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and Borough Market are located here. It is also very close to London Bridge and Tower Bridge.

Southwark Hotel Recommendations

Budget Friendly Hotels in Southwark: Victoria Inn

Mid-range Southwark Hotels: Mercure London Bridge, ibis Styles London Southwark, London Bridge Hotel, citizenM Southwark Bankside

Luxury Southwark Hotels: Shangri-La The Shard, Bankside Hotel

Click here to view all hotels in Soutwark.

South Bank

South bank is one of the cultural centres of London. It is located on the banks of the River Thames, within walking distance to landmarks such as the London Eye, Royal Festival Hall and the National Theatre. The riverside walkways are quite pleasant. It can be preferred for a quiet accommodation.

South Bank Hotel Recommendations

Mid-Class South Bank Hotels: Park Plaza London Waterloo, Novotel London Waterloo, Ruby Lucy Hotel London, Hyatt Regency London Albert Embankment

Luxury South Bank Hotels: London Marriott Hotel County Hall

Click here to view all hotels in South Bank.

Apart from these, a little further away from the centre, King’s Cross, Camden Town and Shoreditch areas can also be considered for suitable accommodation.

Click here for all London hotels!

For a pleasant and unforgettable trip to London, I hope you can plan your trip in the best way possible with my suggestions. If you have anything to add or ask, you can write in the comments.

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