Whether you are a fan of groundbreaking fashion, historic sites, or cultural experiences, London offers a wide variety of opportunities for all travel enthusiasts. London’s rich cultural diversity will open your eyes to new experiences while maintaining characteristics from the place you call home. This city is appropriate for city-savvy and new explorers alike: comprised of multiple neighborhoods with their own unique characteristics, there truly is something here for everybody. If this will be your first trip to London, residing in one of these popular locations will show you why everyone returns to the city for more.

Locations You Have To Check Out

Chelsea

“London – Chelsea” by Cristian Bortes is licensed under CC BY 2.0

One of the best areas to stay in London for the first time is Chelsea. Home to the famous Chelsea soccer team, this area will provide an exciting atmosphere interspersed with rich history. Enjoy a scenic stay overlooking London’s famous river Thames. Explore the nearby landmarks including Big Ben, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Tower of London, located about 20 minutes away from Chelsea. If you’re interested in club soccer, experience the passion of England a Chelsea soccer game in the Stamford Bridge stadium. With an extensive variety of bars, restaurants, and shops in the area, Chelsea provides a hospitable combination of urban and earthy atmospheres. Take a break in one of the many parks and gardens in the neighborhood, or take a scenic bridge walk over the Thames to explore the infamous Battersea Park. A people-pleaser to the even pickiest of travelers, Chelsea guarantees enjoyment for everyone.

Fulham

“Fulham Palace, London” by Peter Trimming is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Fulham sets itself apart from other areas in London with its expansive waterfront views of the River Thames. Rest your feet as you explore the river, or travel to another exciting area of London through water transportation. With plenty of historic views, this is a great area to take a boat tour of the fascinating city. If you decide to tour the area by foot, there is plenty to see on land as well. Classified as one of London’s Royal gardens, Brompton cemetery presents beauty in multiple forms. Built in the mid 1800’s, this cemetery is home to a diverse spectrum of wildlife and fauna, as well as almost 40,000 decorative gravesites. Sports enthusiasts will enjoy Fulham for its close proximity to Fulham and Chelsea soccer club teams, the Hurlington Club for Polo, and the Lillie Bridge Grounds, which hosted the Middlesex Country Cricket Club and the 1873 FA Cup Final.

Kensington

“Fulham Palace, London” by Peter Trimming is licensed under CC BY 2.0

If you enjoy arts and culture, look no further. Kensington is full of breathtaking architecture, many of which contain famous art and history collections. Here you will find a plethora of views, including the Natural History Museum, Victoria & Albert Museum, and the Science museum: all of which offer free entry to visitors. One of London’s most distinctive landmarks, the Royal Albert Hall continues to hold concerts for all you music enthusiasts. Looking to explore more historic luxury? The majestic Kensington Palace is a short walk from any part of the Kensington neighborhood. With a hop, skip and a jump, you can access Kensington station to be on your way to more sightseeing extravaganzas. No matter what activities you choose to partake in, Kensington will make your stay an unforgettable experience, and is surely another one of the best areas to stay in London for your first time.

Knightsbridge

“The German Evangelical Church, Knightsbridge, London” by Robert Cutts is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Located directly between Kensington Palace and Buckingham Palace, a stay at Knightsbridge will surely make you feel like royalty. Knightsbridge is strategically placed between three of London’s eight historical gardens, with three more of these gardens just a stone’s throw away. But don’t throw those stone’s too hard; the queen can often be spotted within the gardens admiring their everlasting beauty. Completely surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery and historic landmarks, Knightsbridge provides an elegant haven for everyone. If you are not too tired from exploring, you will surely shop until you drop at the infamous Harrods and surrounding luxury shops. Live in majestic style in this unforgettable area.

Notting-Hill

“Notting Hill Gate, London Underground” by Yusuke Kawasaki is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Slightly northeast of London is the area of Notting-hill, which provides quiet respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. This inner-city getaway will charm you with a hip and lush leafy atmosphere. Known for its plethora of multicolored cottages, Notting-hill offers fun and tasteful activities for everyone, particularly those with an artistic flair. Unleash your inner producer at The Gate, Notting-hill’s popular cinema, which offers film and video production education and a wide variety of artistic film. A stroll down Portobello Road will bring you to the largest antique market in the world. This market does not just offer antiques though: each day welcomes a new addition to the market, including fresh produce, delicious street food, and fashion-packed booths. Fans of Italian architecture will enjoy a vacation within a vacation in the enchanting canals, which similar to those of Italy they adopted the name Little Venice. If you visit Notting-hill in the summer, you may be fortunate to come across the iconic Notting-hill carnival, a two-day event packed with festivities, costumes, and live music. On the quieter days, visitors are greeted by an an amplitude of cozy restaurants, bars, and shops. Ready for more adventure? Notting-hill’s close proximity and great transportation links to the busier parts of London will have you back to Big Ben in no time. Notting-hill is another one of the best areas to stay in London for your first time.