Where to stay in London for the first time

On a first trip, location matters more than anything. Stay within walking distance of the river and the West End and you'll save hours on the Tube.

Covent Garden
The most central base of all: theatres, the river and Trafalgar Square on foot. Pricier, and busy until late.
Hotels in Covent Garden · ~$360/night
South Bank
On the river between the London Eye and Tower Bridge, with Borough Market and Tate Modern close by.
Hotels in South Bank · ~$295/night
Westminster
Quiet at night, right by Big Ben and Buckingham Palace. Fewer restaurants.
Hotels in Westminster · ~$320/night
Bloomsbury
The best value central area, by the British Museum, with leafy squares and good transport.
Hotels in Bloomsbury · ~$255/night
Soho
For food and nightlife lovers. Lively and loud; choose a room away from the street.
Hotels in Soho · ~$360/night

Written by the StayAreas editorial team · Updated Oct 2026 · How we research our guides

Hotels we'd book in Covent Garden

Our top area for this guide. Mid-range doubles cost about $360 a night.

Best value

Why we like it: Compact, well-designed rooms by the piazza.

Typical budget rate in Covent Garden: ~$190/night

Boutique pick

Why we like it: Cosy Firmdale hotel in the middle of the district.

Typical mid-range rate in Covent Garden: ~$360/night

Luxury pick

Why we like it: Grand 1889 hotel between the Strand and the river.

Typical luxury rate in Covent Garden: ~$805/night

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What is the best area to stay in London for first-time visitors?

Covent Garden is the most central. The South Bank and Westminster are close to the main sights, and Bloomsbury is the best-value central option.

Which areas should first-time visitors avoid?

Anywhere central works, but staying far out in zones 3–6 to save money usually costs you more time than it's worth on a short trip.

Hotels in Covent GardenMid-range from ~$360/night