United Kingdom · tool
How much does London cost?
Daily budget breakdown across three tiers — so you can realistically plan your London trip before you book anything.
London, United Kingdom travel budget
Realistic daily cost per person across three spending tiers. All figures in USD.
Budget
Hostels, street food, public transit
Hostel dorm bed or a very basic private room outside the city center.
Street food, supermarket meals, casual cafes, and pub lunches.
Oyster card/contactless payment for the Tube and buses, focusing on zones 1-2.
Free museums, parks, walking tours, and affordable markets.
Souvenirs, occasional coffee, or small incidentals.
Mid-range
3-star hotels, mix of restaurants, some taxis
Comfortable 3-star hotel or a well-located Airbnb apartment.
Mix of casual restaurants, gastropubs, and mid-range dining experiences.
Extensive use of Tube/buses, occasional short taxi/Uber rides.
Entry to major attractions like the Tower of London, West End theatre tickets (mid-range seats).
More flexibility for shopping, drinks, or spontaneous purchases.
Luxury
4-5 star hotels, premium dining, private transfers
4-5 star hotel in a prime location or a high-end serviced apartment.
Fine dining, tasting menus, Michelin-starred restaurants, and premium bars.
Private car services, black cabs for most journeys, and airport transfers.
Premium theatre seats, private tours, exclusive experiences, and high-end shopping.
Spa treatments, bespoke souvenirs, and other luxury incidentals.
Destination-specific money tips
- •Contactless payment is king; most places prefer it over cash. Ensure your card has no foreign transaction fees.
- •Avoid using standalone ATMs in tourist shops or convenience stores, as they often charge high fees. Use bank-affiliated ATMs.
- •West End theatre tickets can be surprisingly affordable if booked last minute from TKTS booths or online deals, but premium seats are costly.
- •While many museums are free, special exhibitions often have a charge, which can add up.
- •Service charge is often automatically added to restaurant bills; check your receipt carefully before tipping extra.
Plan the rest of your London trip
Trip budgets elsewhere