Arrival by Plane
London has six airports — be mindful when booking which one you choose, as some are far from the center.
Heathrow (LHR)
London's main airport (27 km west). Connection to the center: Elizabeth Line (Crossrail, from £12.80, 30–40 min to Paddington — the best and cheapest option!), Heathrow Express (£25, 15 min to Paddington, expensive but fast), Piccadilly Line (£5.60 with Oyster, 50–60 min, cheap but slow).
Gatwick (LGW)
Second largest airport (45 km south). Gatwick Express (from £17.80, 30 min to Victoria) or Southern Rail (from £10, 35 min, cheaper). Many low-cost carriers.
Stansted (STN)
Ryanair and low-cost carrier hub (60 km northeast). Stansted Express (from £14, 47 min to Liverpool Street). National Express Bus (from £6, 90 min to Victoria — budget option).
Luton (LTN)
Low-cost carrier airport (55 km north). Thameslink train from Luton Airport Parkway (from £12, 30 min to St Pancras). Shuttle bus from the terminal to the station (10 min).
London City (LCY)
Small business airport directly in the Docklands — the closest to the center (15 min by DLR to Bank). Flights from some German cities.
💡 Tipp
The Elizabeth Line (Crossrail) from Heathrow has been the best connection to the center since 2022: affordable, fast, and with connections to many stations. The Piccadilly Line is cheaper but significantly slower and uncomfortable with luggage during rush hour. Stansted and Luton: Buy bus tickets (National Express, Terravision) weeks in advance online — then from £2!
