London is one of Europe’s most storied and beautiful cities.  Home to several million people, London is a bustling city that offers something for every traveler.  Whether you are interested in the city’s rich history, world-renowned landmarks, sprawling parks, or deeply rooted culture, there is something to indulge your every interest.  Unfortunately, London can also be an expensive city to visit, but it doesn’t have to be.  With a few tips and tricks, you can have an unforgettable visit to one of the world’s most famous cities without breaking the bank.

Plan Ahead

The first key to an affordable trip to London is to plan your trip as far in advance as possible.  Go online and search for deals as soon as you decide when you are going to go on your better trip.  Better yet, search for deals before you decide on a final travel date.  Having flexible dates means you can travel during the off-season when rates could be lower.

Another practical reason to start planning your trip early is that you can take care of any paperwork you will need to travel overseas.  Be sure your passport is valid and determine whether you need a visa to travel to or through the UK.  What’s more, if you have a criminal record in Canada, you may require a document known as a national pardon if you are going to travel to London.  Always be sure you know what documents you will require before you travel, or you could be held up at the airport and denied entry into the country.

Find Something Fun

Now that you have all of that in order, the fun planning can begin.  Do some research and make a list of the places and things you’d like to see while you are in London.  London has a vast array of historic sites, world-class restaurants, a rich theatre and arts scene, and more.  To be sure you are going to be able to fit in everything you want to see, make a list and prioritize things in order of their importance to you.  If, for example, you simply can’t leave London without having taken a tour of Buckingham Palace, be sure you are traveling at a time when tours are allowed.  And if you must capture that perfect photo of Big Ben, put that at the top of your list.  To maximize your budget, it’s a good idea to mix in some free activities (a walk through one of the city’s parks, for example) with the tourist attractions that can put a bit of a strain on the wallet.

Getting A Good Meal On Your Belly

In terms of food costs during a trip to London, there are lots of ways to save money there, too.  First, when you book your hotel it’s a good idea to look for one that offers a complimentary breakfast.  That’s a great way to start off your day with a good meal in your belly at no additional cost.  And although you will no doubt want to sample some of London’s famed pub food (and maybe an Indian meal or two) there is something to be said about heading to an open-air market, purchasing a few bits and pieces, and having a picnic in the park while you indulge in some people watching.

Now all that’s left is deciding when to start packing!

Planning a trip to London can be both daunting and exciting.  There is so much to see in London, so it’s important to plan carefully to maximize both your time and your budget.  From there, be sure your camera battery is charged and soak in as much of the city as you can!