How Much Money Do I Need Per Day in London?

By Anna Duncan

If you’re planning a trip to London, one of the questions you may be asking yourself is, “How much money do I need per day in London?” The answer to this question can vary depending on your travel style and budget. In this guide, we’ll break down the average costs of accommodation, food, transportation, and activities in London and give you an idea of how much money you should budget per day.

Accommodation Costs

When it comes to accommodation in London, there are plenty of options to suit different budgets. For budget travelers, hostels are a great choice, with prices starting at around £15-£20 per night for a dorm room.

If you’re looking for more privacy and comfort, budget hotels can be found for around £50-£80 per night. Mid-range hotels start at around £100-£150 per night, while luxury hotels can cost upwards of £200-£300 per night.

Food and Drink Costs

London is known for its diverse food scene, with options ranging from street food to high-end restaurants. Budget travelers can find affordable meals at street markets and fast-food chains like McDonald’s or Pret A Manger. For sit-down meals at restaurants or pubs, expect to pay between £10-£20 for lunch and £20-£30 for dinner.

If you’re looking for a pint of beer or glass of wine to accompany your meal or nightlife experience in London prices are between £4-£6 on average.

Transportation Costs

The best way to get around London is by using public transportation like buses or the underground system known as the Tube. A single journey on the Tube costs around £2.40 with an Oyster card which can be purchased at any station with a minimum deposit of £5.

For those who plan on using public transport more than once a day, a daily cap of £7 is in place for Oyster card users. Alternatively, you can purchase a Visitor Oyster card or travelcard which can save you money if you plan on using public transport frequently during your stay.

Activity Costs

There are plenty of free things to do in London, like visiting the British Museum or taking a stroll through Hyde Park. However, if you’re looking to experience some of London’s top attractions and activities, expect to pay an entry fee.

For example, the London Eye costs around £27 per adult ticket and the Tower of London costs around £28 per adult ticket. Prices vary depending on the attraction and time of year.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, how much money you need per day in London depends on your travel style and budget. As a general rule of thumb, budget travelers should expect to spend around £50-£70 per day on accommodation, food, transportation, and activities. Mid-range travelers should budget around £100-£150 per day while luxury travelers should expect to spend upwards of £200 per day.

Remember that these are just estimates and prices can vary depending on your travel style and preferences. However, with careful planning and budgeting, London can be an affordable destination for travelers of all budgets.