Flights to London starting at $489.64

Walking along the River Thames, the Old Globe just a stone’s throw away, you’re overtaken by a sense of possibility. You’re reminded of Samuel Johnson’s famous observation: “Sire, when a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford.” Yes, you think, no matter what your life’s ambitions are, they can surely come to fruition here. Steeped in history and constantly abuzz, London is more than just the “Big Smoke.” It’s also a hub of government, international food, and retail therapy. The world is a stage, and London is your stage left.

Book a flight to London on Travelocity today, and soon you’ll be listening to the famed chimes of Big Ben and stopping for afternoon tea. If you’ve left your heart in San Francisco, you’ll find it again in the capital of England.

Transportation from LHR

Most international London flights land at Heathrow Airport (LHR), though the city has many other airports, as well. If your travels take you elsewhere in Europe, Gatwick, Luton, and Stanstead airports can get you there. Once you’re wheels down at LHR, you’re about 20 miles from the center of London. The fastest way to the center of the city is the Heathrow Express, which is just a 15-minute ride between the airport and Paddington Station.

The Tube, or London Underground, offers a more-cost effective route that takes about an hour. You can also hop into a famous London black cab travel from the terminals to anywhere in the city. If you want a stylish first-class ride, book a chauffeur service. If you dare to drive on the “wrong” side of the road and want to explore the English countryside outside London on your own schedule, rent a car when you book your plane tickets to London.

Hotels Near London Airports

The beautiful hotels of London take your breath away before you even cross the threshold. The architecture harkens back to a time when the Tower of London was in full swing and horse and carriage rides were commonplace. Once inside, lavish chandeliers and modern furniture brings you back to the present. You saved money on one our cheapest flights to London, so a stay in one of these top hotels is easily within budget:

• St. Ermins Hotel, Autograph Collection: The theatrical design of St. Ermins Hotel is eye catching and luxurious. Dramatic staircases and fireplaces make their mark in the lobby, and Art Nouveau designs give the space a distinct character.
• The Rembrandt: Situated in South Kensington, near a Tube station and Kensington Palace, The Rembrandt is historic yet modern. The hotel has earned four stars and treats you to a full English breakfast each morning.
• Sofitel London St. James: This English Heritage building turned artistic hotel is the perfect place to stay for the creative at heart. Vibrant and interesting fabrics will delight your senses, while clean lines and marble countertops keep the luxe vibe alive.
• The Bailey's Hotel London: Enjoy the modern amenities of Kensington and the history of the Victorian era when you stay at The Bailey’s Hotel. A transformed Victorian townhouse, the hotel has a fine Italian restaurant on-site and grand staircase set the stage for a delightful vacation.

Things to Do in London

You’ve booked your airfare to London and your hotel reservations have been made. Now is the time to get excited and start planning your agenda. Begin your stay with a trip around the London Eye, which lets you survey the entire city with awe. Explore the history of the Big Smoke by touring St. Paul’s Cathedral and Buckingham Palace, and visit Parliament at sunset for breathtaking views. At night, the West End is a theatrical playground, with curtains going up on dozens of stages.

With thousands of years of history under its belt and a sense of pomp and royalty dancing through the air, Britain’s capital is truly majestic. You can watch the changing of the guards at the Kensington Palace, and then take a short Tube ride to Oxford Street and buy designer duds. In short: The best of history and modernity marry here. Book London flight deals on Travelocity today, and the iconic attractions of London are just a jaunt across the pond.