Flights from Riga to London Stansted

Vibrant, bustling London: one of the world's greatest cities

On the banks of the River Thames, London is a city which bursts with life and with fresh experiences for the visitor. The capital's many museums and art galleries contain unmissable masterpieces, while its famous shops, verdant parks and varied nightlife cater for every taste.

London's finest

London is warm in the summer months of July and August, which are the most popular times to visit. Those wanting to avoid the largest crowds may choose to travel in May or September when the weather is mild. Winters are wet, but snow and ice are rare. London has festivals all year round, with the Notting Hill Carnival attracting up to a million people at the end of August (bank holiday). Chinese New Year is celebrated in great style in February and those seeking a real British tradition may want to see the famous Oxford versus Cambridge Boat Race in April; the London Marathon is also held in spring. Each New Year is celebrated with a huge fireworks display on the Thames.

Preparing to travel to London

If you do plan to hire a car and drive into the centre of London, you'll need to pay the Congestion Charge (cost is about £12). London is an expensive place. Accommodation, food and even snacks will normally cost more than you are used to paying. Public transport is efficient but not cheap. In the city centre, walking is often the best and most enjoyable way to get around.

Transfer from Stansted to central London

The Stansted Express leaves the airport every 15 minutes, with a 45 minute journey to Liverpool Street Station costing about £8. CrossCountry trains link Stansted with Cambridge in about 35 minutes, and can also provide links to the Midlands. National Express coaches also serve many destinations. There is a taxi reservation desk in the international arrivals area.

London hostel doem beds cost about £30 or so per night upwards, and cheap hotels start at about £40. On public transport, a day Travelcard is priced at between £12 and £15 and is valid on all buses, trains and the Underground. Most Londoners use the "Oyster" plastic card system, with a refundable £5 deposit. London's famous black taxis can be hailed on the street and offer metered journeys.