United Kingdom travel guide
United Kingdom Tourism | United Kingdom Guide
You're Going to Love United Kingdom
The United Kingdom offers a mix of megacities, medieval towns and some of the greenest countrysides you will ever see.
What to do in the United Kingdom
1. Walk Around London
One can't head to the United Kingdom without seeing the capital, home of the Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and Tower Bridge. While there, go for an authentic afternoon tea experience.
2. Explore Edinburgh
You cannot miss Edinburgh Castle, which houses the crown jewels of Scotland, or Arthur's Seat for a wonderful panoramic view of the city.
3. Go Back in Time at Stonehenge
Learn about Neolithic people and visit the wonder that is Stonehenge, an ancient site where each stone tells a piece of history.
4. Go For a Soak at Bath
The city of Bath is known for its Roman baths, its Medieval abbey and the picturesque Pulteney Bridge. Don't forget to go for a soothing spa session at the historical Thermae Bath Spa.
5. Look for Monsters at Loch Ness
While the Scottish lake is mainly known for its legendary Loch Ness Monster, you can make a hiking trip out of it by walking along the South Loch Ness Trail.
When to visit the United Kingdom
The United Kingdom is well known for its wet and rainy weather, so be prepared! However, from May until August the climate tends to be drier and more pleasant.
How to Get to the United Kingdom
Entry Requirements
Citizens of over 70 nations, including the European Union, Switzerland, and the United States, don't need a visa to enter the United Kingdom but must present a valid passport upon entry. Citizens from non-exempt countries must apply for a visa in their country of residence.
Plane
The United Kingdom has a number of airlines that connect it with the world, the main ones being British Airways and Virgin Atlantic. If you are flying from Europe, you will find cheap flights with airlines such as easyJet and Ryanair.
Train
Train connections are available through Eurostar on the European mainland, with trips from Paris to London averaging 2h 15m, while trips from Brussels to London take under 2h.
Car
If you are looking at driving from Europe mainland, you will need to take your car through the Channel Tunnel. This trip takes about 40min and a one-way fare starts at about £50 ($65).
Bus
Bus travel to London is available with Eurolines, which offers direct trips from Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam.
Boat
Ferry travel to the United Kingdom is available from all its neighboring countries, with one of the most popular routes being the Calais to Dover. Ferries are also available from Dublin to Liverpool or Holyhead.
Popular airports in the United Kingdom
Popular airlines serving the United Kingdom
Where to stay in the United Kingdom
Hotels of all ratings and prices are widely available throughout the main cities. Budget travelers will also find a lot of hostels or camp sites to choose from.
Where to stay in popular areas of the United Kingdom
Most booked hotels in the United Kingdom
How to Get Around the United Kingdom
Public Transportation
Only 4 cities in the United Kingdom have an underground metro system, including London, Glasgow and Liverpool. The rest of the country is well connected by light rail, buses and trains.
Trains
The United Kingdom has two main train networks that connect major cities through high speed trains. National Rail covers the countries on the Great Britain side, while Northern Ireland Railways operates in Northern Ireland.
Bus
Local and regional public transport bus services are available for short distances. For long-distance travel, coaches are a more comfortable option. Some of the popular companies are National Express, Megabus and CityLink.
Car
Renting a car is not advised if you are staying in the big cities as parking can be costly; however, it is a great way to see the British countryside. It is important to know that in the United Kingdom you must drive on the left.
Plane
Flying is not the cheapest or most convenient way of travel within the United Kingdom. However, domestic flights are widely available with British Airways or with the many low cost airlines that operate in the country.
Best car hire deals in the United Kingdom
Intermediate SUV
5 adults, 3 Bags
£18/day
Full-size SUV
5 adults, 2 Bags
£242/day
The Cost of Living in the United Kingdom
Renting an apartment will vary greatly depending on the city or town where you are living, with London being the most expensive by far. On average, a weekly groceries trip will cost around £60, while a meal at an inexpensive restaurant will cost around £12, and a public transport pass will be around £60 per month. Credit and debit cards are widely used throughout the country.