Top 10 London Travel Tips: How to Save Money and Survive the Big Smoke

Europa|

Dec 9

“When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford.”

— Samuel Johnson

London is incredible, but let’s be real: it’s also one of the most expensive and fast-paced cities on Earth. Between the confusing Tube map and the £7 pints, your wallet (and your patience) can take a serious hit if you aren't careful.

But here is the good news: London is actually full of free experiences and smart hacks—if you know where to look. I’ve navigated the grey skies and bustling streets to bring you the ultimate survival guide. Here is how to conquer London without going broke or getting yelled at on the escalator.

1.

The Golden Rule of the Tube: Stand on the Right

If you remember only one thing from this list, let it be this. In London, escalator etiquette is sacred. Stand on the right, walk on the left. If you stand on the left side during rush hour, you will be sighed at, nudged, or politely (but firmly) asked to move. Don't be that tourist blocking the path of a commuter trying to get to work.

2.

Ditch the Paper Tickets (Use Contactless)

Do not waste your time queuing at ticket machines to buy paper "Travelcards." They are significantly more expensive. London has a capped payment system. Just tap your contactless bank card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay on the yellow readers. It’s the cheapest way to travel, and the system automatically caps your daily spend so you never pay more than a Day Travelcard price.

3.

Skip The Shard, Go to the Sky Garden (It's Free!)

The View from The Shard costs over £30 per person. Why pay that when you can get an equally stunning view for £0? The Sky Garden (located in the "Walkie Talkie" building) offers panoramic views of the city and a beautiful indoor garden for free. The only catch? You must book your free entry ticket online a few weeks in advance. It’s the best budget hack in the city.

4.

Museums Are Free (Yes, Really)

Unlike Paris or New York, most of London’s world-class museums are completely free to enter. You can wander into the British Museum, the Natural History Museum, the V&A, or the Tate Modern without spending a penny. It’s a perfect rainy-day activity—and let’s face it, you will have rainy days.

5.

Don't Trust the Tube Map Distances

The Tube map is a design masterpiece, but it’s not geographically accurate. In central London, stations like Covent Garden and Leicester Square are literally a 4-minute walk apart. Taking the Tube between them takes longer and costs money. Check Google Maps or simply walk; you’ll see way more of the city above ground.

6.

Eat at Borough Market, Not Chain Restaurants

London's food scene has shed its bad reputation. For the best lunch in the city, head to Borough Market near London Bridge. Avoid the generic chain restaurants near tourist sites. Instead, grab a gourmet burger, fresh paella, or the famous doughnuts from the market stalls. It’s authentic, delicious, and cheaper than a sit-down meal.

7.

Citymapper is Better Than Google Maps Here

While Google Maps is great, locals swear by Citymapper. The app is optimized for London’s complex transport network. It tells you exactly which train carriage to sit in to be closest to the exit, offers "rain-safe" routes, and gives real-time bus updates that are eerily accurate. Download it before you land.

8.

Sunday Roast is Mandatory

You cannot leave England without experiencing a traditional Sunday Roast. It’s not just a meal; it’s a cultural institution. Find a cozy historic pub (look for one away from the main high streets) on a Sunday afternoon. Expect roast beef, potatoes, vegetables, Yorkshire pudding, and plenty of gravy. It’s the ultimate British comfort food.

9.

Check 'TKTS' for West End Shows

Want to see The Lion King or Les Misérables but don't want to pay £100+? Head to the TKTS booth in Leicester Square or check the TodayTix app for last-minute, discounted seats. You can often snag front-row seats for half the price if you’re flexible with which show you see.

10.

Bring Layers (The Weather is Schizophrenic)

London weather is famously unpredictable. It can be sunny, raining, and windy all within 20 minutes. Don't rely on a single heavy coat. The key is layering. Bring a light rain jacket, a sweater, and comfortable waterproof shoes. And yes, carry a compact umbrella, but please, watch out for other people’s eyes when you open it!