**This is a collaborative post**
Planning a weekend trip to London can be one of the most exciting excursions you’ll ever make. Whether you’re looking forward to exploring iconic landmarks, catching a West End show, or simply wandering through the city’s beautiful parks, the key to a successful London getaway lies in meticulous planning. From crafting the perfect itinerary to packing the essentials, there’s plenty to consider to make your short trip as smooth as possible.
One of the first things to sort is your transport within the city. London’s public transport system is efficient, and to make the most of it, it’s wise to secure an Oyster card as soon as your trip is confirmed. This card allows you to travel seamlessly across buses, tubes, and even some overground trains, saving you the hassle of purchasing individual tickets.
Once the travel logistics are sorted, it’s time to think about accommodation. London offers a wide range of options, from luxurious hotels to cosy bed and breakfasts, hostels, and even unique short-term rentals. While each type of accommodation has its advantages, one of the best-value options for a short weekend stay is an Airbnb or a similar rental platform. Let’s explore why.
Stay Central Without the Crowds
One of the most attractive features of staying in an Airbnb in central London is the ability to stay in prime locations without being surrounded by the usual hustle and bustle that comes with hotels or hostels. Hotels in central areas like Covent Garden, Soho, or even near Hyde Park are often on busy, noisy streets filled with tourists and traffic. While the convenience of staying central is undeniable, it can come with its downsides – like fighting through crowds as soon as you step outside the door.
With Airbnb, you can stay in residential pockets that are just as central but far more peaceful. Imagine waking up in a quiet street just minutes away from your favourite attractions. You’re close enough to the action, but still able to retreat to a calm environment at the end of the day. It’s the best of both worlds, especially for a short trip where every minute counts.
More Privacy
Hotels, while convenient, can sometimes lack the personal space many travellers desire. In a busy hotel, you might have cleaners knocking on your door early in the morning, fellow guests chatting loudly in the hallways, or simply the feeling of being in a corporate-like environment. Hostels, on the other hand, are even more communal, with shared bathrooms, dormitory-style rooms, and little space for solitude.
Airbnb provides a much more private experience. You have an entire home or flat to yourself, giving you the luxury of unwinding in a comfortable space without constant interruptions. Whether you’re staying as a couple, a family, or even on a solo trip, the privacy and personal space make a huge difference, especially if you’re the type who values a bit of peace and quiet during your travels.
A Home Away from Home
There’s something special about having a home-like environment when travelling. With Airbnb, you get the comforts of home that a typical hotel room simply can’t offer. Many Airbnbs come with fully equipped kitchens, living rooms, and even outdoor spaces like gardens or balconies, making it a far more comfortable experience than being confined to a single room.
For a weekend getaway, this “home away from home” vibe can be especially appealing. You can make yourself a cup of tea in the morning, lounge in a cosy living room after a day of sightseeing, or even enjoy a meal prepared in your own kitchen if you fancy staying in. These little comforts can elevate your stay and make your trip feel more relaxed and enjoyable.
No Rush for Breakfast
One of the downsides of staying in a hotel, hostel, or bed and breakfast is the time pressure around meals. In most places, breakfast is served at specific times, meaning you’ll need to wake up and head down for your meal by a certain hour. This can feel rushed, especially if you’re hoping to sleep in after a long day of exploring the city.
In an Airbnb, you can enjoy your mornings at your own pace. Whether you’re an early riser or prefer a leisurely start to your day, you can make breakfast whenever you please. Some Airbnbs even come with coffee makers, toasters, and other kitchen appliances, so you can whip up something simple before heading out for the day. Otherwise, it’s easy to find a local café with yummy food in London! It’s a small perk, but one that can make your weekend stay feel much more relaxed and personal.
Competitive Pricing
When it comes to affordability, Airbnb often wins out over hotels, especially in central London. For the same price as a basic hotel room, you might be able to book an entire flat or house, giving you more space and better amenities. Additionally, when travelling with a group, splitting the cost of an Airbnb can be far more economical than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Another consideration is the cost of meals. As mentioned earlier, having access to a kitchen allows you to prepare your own food, saving you from dining out for every meal – which can quickly add up in a city as expensive as London.
It’s worth noting, however, that if you’re travelling with an early flight or train (which are often the cheaper options), you might need to store your luggage somewhere before you can check into your Airbnb. Many Airbnb hosts have self-check-in systems, but the check-in times may not align with your arrival. In this case, there are numerous services for luggage storage in London where you can drop off your bags and explore the city bag-free until it’s time to retrieve your Airbnb keys.
Flexibility with Check-In and Check-Out
One of the best things about Airbnb is the flexibility it offers when it comes to check-in and check-out times. While many hotels, hostels, and bed and breakfasts have strict check-in hours, many Airbnb hosts offer self-check-in systems. This means you can arrive at your accommodation at any time that suits you, whether it’s late at night or throughout the day, as long as it is after the official start of check-in.
Ultimately, Airbnb properties typically have a fast turnaround, allocating a few hours for cleaning and prepping the accommodation between the departure of former guests and the arrival of new guests!
This flexibility is a huge bonus for weekend trips, where time is of the essence. You can start exploring the city without worrying about the specific check-in window. It’s especially convenient if your travel plans are subject to change or if you prefer to keep things spontaneous.
Local Experience
Another advantage of staying in an Airbnb is the opportunity to experience London like a local. Instead of being confined to a tourist-heavy area, you’re often staying in residential neighbourhoods, giving you a more authentic feel of the city. Airbnb hosts also tend to share personal recommendations on local eateries, hidden gems, and things to do that you won’t find in typical tourist brochures.
This insider knowledge can make a big difference when planning your weekend itinerary. Instead of following the usual tourist trail, you’ll have the chance to discover neighbourhood cafes, quaint markets, and off-the-beaten-path attractions. It’s a great way to experience a different side of London and feel more connected to the city.
Larger Space for Groups
If you’re travelling with friends, family, or a partner, an Airbnb can offer much more space than a hotel room for the same price. Many Airbnbs come with multiple bedrooms, separate living areas, and spacious layouts, making them ideal for groups or couples who want a bit of extra room to spread out.
Even for solo travellers, the extra space can be a real treat. Instead of being confined to a single room, you can have a living area to relax in, a kitchen to prepare meals, and sometimes even outdoor space. This added comfort can make your weekend trip feel more luxurious without breaking the bank.
Parking Options
Finally, if you’re driving into London for your weekend getaway, finding accommodation with parking can be a real challenge, especially in central areas. Most hotels and other accommodations in the heart of London don’t offer on-site parking, meaning you’ll need to find a nearby car park – which can be expensive and inconvenient.
Some Airbnbs, however, come with the added benefit of on-site parking or access to a private driveway, saving you both time and money. This is a significant advantage for travellers who prefer the convenience of driving and want to avoid the stress of hunting for parking in the city.
When planning a short weekend trip to London, choosing the right accommodation is key to making the most of your time in the city. While hotels, hostels, and bed and breakfasts each have their perks, an Airbnb offers a unique combination of comfort, privacy, and value that’s hard to beat. From staying central without the crowds to enjoying more space and flexibility, Airbnb provides the ideal base for your London adventure, all while keeping your trip budget-friendly.
So next time you’re planning a London excursion, consider booking an Airbnb for a more personalised, local, and comfortable stay.