Explore lively London
A city of discovery and diversity, fly to London and you’ll encounter iconic architecture, world-class museums and serene green spaces.
The UK capital is packed with famous landmarks, from Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament to Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London.
There are plenty of things you can do in London, hop on the Tube or wander on foot around central London and you’ll soon uncover a tapestry of rich history, cosmopolitan cuisine and vibrant nightlife.
Take a cruise along the Thames, hit the shops on bustling Oxford Street, or take in a show in the heart of the dazzling West End.
Once you’ve finished exploring for the day, unwind in a traditional English pub or head to Borough Market for some exquisite dining in the shadow of London Bridge.
Book your flights to London with Etihad to discover never-ending adventure in the UK’s dynamic capital.
Reasons to visit London
The South Bank
No visit to London would be complete without a walk along the timeless River Thames – and a trip to the South Bank is a great way to experience it.
Start at Tower Bridge or the Tower of London then stroll west along the river to take in some of the city’s iconic buildings – including the futuristic Shard and historic St Paul’s Cathedral. Pass Shakespeare’s Globe theatre, the Tate Modern gallery and the Millennium Footbridge.
Once you arrive at the South Bank itself, you’ll find captivating street performers, the giant London Eye and views of the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben.
Covent Garden
Despite the name, this isn’t a park but a former fruit and vegetable market transformed into a retail haven, filled with quirky market stalls and boutiques.
In the surrounding area, you’ll find high-end brands and restaurants spilling out into the square. Covent Garden is part of London’s West End, home to some of the world’s best plays and musicals.
Close by you’ll also find the National Gallery, hosting significant works from the likes of Van Gogh, Rembrandt and Leonardo da Vinci.
Kensington Gardens
Attached to Kensington Palace – the official London residence of William and Kate, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge – Kensington Gardens offer a green oasis in the heart of the city.
The vast grounds include the elaborate Albert Memorial, the beautiful Italian Gardens and the innovative Princess Diana Memorial Playground. A paradise for children, the playground features pockets of discovery, intricately carved trees and outdoor musical instruments.
Nearby you’ll find Hyde Park and Buckingham Palace – home of the Queen and location of the unmissable Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Flying to London: FAQs
How many days should you spend in London?
With so much to see and do in London, you could spend months here and still not see it all. If you’re pushed for time, four days is enough to see a handful of the most famous attractions such as Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London.
Stay for a little longer and you’ll be able to enjoy some of the fine museums including the Natural History Museum, the British Museum and the National Gallery, as well as relaxing in the capital’s impressive parks.
How do I get from London Heathrow to central London?
You can pre-book an airport transfer with Etihad online and your driver will be waiting for you in arrivals when you land.
Alternatively, you can catch the Heathrow Express train into Paddington – which takes around half an hour to reach central London. London Heathrow is also on the London Underground network, offering a cheap and convenient way to travel.
Should I hire a car in London?
If you’re staying in the centre of London or the Greater London area, you may prefer to use public transport. It’s a busy city and parking can be hard to find.
However, if you’re planning to visit other places in the UK then driving is a great option – Brighton, Cambridge and Stonehenge are all around two hours away.
Why fly to London with Etihad?
Book flight tickets to London with Etihad and you will be able to shape your travel experience.
Choose how you check in, add additional baggage and ensure a smooth journey from the airport when you land in London by pre-booking a transfer online.
Before you fly, relax in one of our worldwide lounges. Some lounges offer spa services, while others have a la carte dining and Wi-Fi, keeping you connected before you fly.
Access to our lounges is included with First and Business tickets – where available – while Economy guests can often pay to use them.
Every guest can enjoy a complimentary meal created using fresh, seasonal ingredients and inspired by your destination.
All seats recline for your comfort and feature fully adjustable headrests. Our inflight entertainment system features the latest movies, along with the best TV shows and music to ensure the hours fly by.
*Aircraft, cabins and services may vary by route and flight. You can check this when you search for your flight. This page was last updated January 2023.