FindYourStay
🎒Backpackers

Where to Stay in London

Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips

🛡️ Safe💰 Budget: GBP 100/day🚶 Very Walkable☀️ Best: Jun, Jul, Aug

Our pick for backpackers

Stay in Areas slightly further out like Earl's Court or parts of Zone 2 (e.g., Walthamstow) offer better value hostels and easier access to transport.

These areas provide more affordable accommodation options while remaining connected to central London via the Tube.

Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers

Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting London

1

Covent Garden

Luxury

A bustling hub of street performers, theaters, and unique shops in the heart of the West End.

first-timerscouplesculturefoodies
  • +Central location with easy access to major attractions
  • +Vibrant atmosphere with endless entertainment options
  • +Excellent dining and shopping experiences
  • -Can be very crowded and noisy
  • -Accommodation is generally expensive
🏨 The Henrietta Hotel🏨 The Resident Covent Garden🏨 St Martins Lane London
2

Shoreditch

Mid-range

A trendy and artistic neighborhood known for its street art, independent boutiques, and vibrant nightlife.

nightlifefoodiesculturedigital nomadssolo travelers
  • +Cutting-edge street art and galleries
  • +Diverse and exciting food scene
  • +Lively bars and clubs
  • -Can be noisy, especially on weekends
  • -Accommodation can be pricier than expected for the vibe
🏨 The Hoxton, Shoreditch🏨 Boundary London🏨 CitizenM London Shoreditch
3

South Kensington

Luxury

An elegant and cultured area, home to world-class museums and charming garden squares.

culturefamiliesluxuryfirst-timers
  • +Proximity to major museums
  • +Leafy and sophisticated atmosphere
  • +Excellent transport links
  • -Very expensive for accommodation and dining
  • -Can feel a bit quiet in the evenings
🏨 The Ampersand Hotel🏨 The Gore London, A Starhotels Collezione🏨 The Pelham London
4

Notting Hill

Mid-range

Charming and bohemian, famous for its colorful houses, Portobello Road Market, and independent spirit.

couplesfoodiesculturefirst-timers
  • +Picturesque streets and unique architecture
  • +Bustling market with antiques and food
  • +Relaxed and friendly atmosphere
  • -Can get very crowded on market days
  • -Accommodation prices can be high
🏨 The Portobello Hotel🏨 The Laslett🏨 The Mitre

Daily Budget (Budget)

GBP 100/day

Dorm bed at Generator LondonGBP 35
Lunch from a Pret A Manger sandwich and a pastryGBP 10
Oyster card pay as you go for Zone 1-2 travelGBP 15
Visit the British Museum (free entry) and walk through Hyde ParkGBP 0
Dinner at Dishoom (Carnaby Street location) for a set mealGBP 40
See all budget tiers

Hidden Gems in London

Lesser-known spots the locals love

🛍️

Columbia Road Flower Market

FREE

Immerse yourself in a vibrant explosion of color and scent every Sunday morning as this East London street transforms into a bustling flower market. Locals flock here for beautiful blooms, plants, and a lively, cheerful atmosphere.

marketShoreditch/Bethnal Green
⚠️

2 areas to be cautious about

Read our full safety guide for London

More London Guides

Full London guideAreas to avoid👩 Solo Female Travellers💑 Couples👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families💻 Digital Nomads✨ Luxury Travellers🎉 Nightlife Seekers