Where to Stay

For easy access to the city's attractions, shops and different neighborhoods, consider these five major areas in central London: Mayfair & Marylebone; Paddington & Bayswater; Notting Hill; Knightsbridge & South Kensington; and Covent Garden & Bloomsbury.

Mayfair & Marylebone is probably the most expensive area. It encompasses Marble Arch and Baker Street, and includes exclusive Piccadilly and Park Lane. There are many absolutely beautiful hotels here, such as the Langham, Connaught, and Claridge's - the latter two ideally positioned for shopping along Oxford and Bond Streets. With its own distinctive style and ambiance, The Landmark London combines classic British elegance and grandeur with the deluxe facilities demanded by today's discerning travelers. The Metropolitan Hotel, home to Nobu and The Met Bar, remains a trendy favorite. Three London parks also surround this area: Regent's, Hyde and Green.

Paddington & Bayswater are extremely touristy but have a wide range of hotels and restaurants. Paddington station has a direct train to Heathrow airport, which runs every quarter of an hour and takes just 15 minutes. Hyde Park is within a few minutes walk and the main shopping district of Oxford Street is a short bus ride away. Hotels in this area include the modern Royal Lancaster and the very chic and minimalist Hempel.

Notting Hill is popular with the young and famous. High Street Kensington, close to the Kensington Palace, offers a quaint and quiet atmosphere along with great shopping. Popular hotels around the area include the Portobello Hotel, the Abbey Court and the Royal Garden Hotel.

Knightsbridge & South Kensington is another pricey district within walking distance of Harrods, Piccadilly Circus and Sloane Street — a veritable shopping paradise. The Natural History Museum, the Science Museum and the Victoria & Albert Museum are also nearby. Not surprisingly, this area is home to a wide range of hotels; the Berkeley, Blakes, The Pelham Hotel and the Halkin are among the most renowned.

Bloomsbury & Covent Garden hotels are well positioned for theater goers, shopping addicts, and visitors to the British Museum. This area is practical for business travelers; it's close to Holborn and not far from the city. The Savoy and the Hampshire are both good hotels within easy reach of main attractions. The Covent Garden Hotel in the heart of Covent Garden is discreet, but always teeming with celebrities. Other du jour hotels are St Martins Lane and The Sanderson.