Know where you are going
AeroVista flights to London arrive at Heathrow (LHR), the city's largest airport, west of the centre. There are several good ways into town, and the best choice depends on where your hotel is, how much luggage you have and whether speed or cost matters more.
Before you fly, look up your hotel's nearest station. That one detail usually decides which option makes most sense.
The fast train
The Heathrow Express is a dedicated non-stop train to Paddington station, and the journey takes around a quarter of an hour. It is the quickest way into central London, comfortable and frequent, but also the most expensive rail option. Booking in advance usually reduces the fare.
From Paddington, you can connect to the Underground or take a short taxi ride to your hotel.
The Elizabeth line and the Tube
The Elizabeth line runs from Heathrow right through central London, stopping at major stations including Paddington, Bond Street, Tottenham Court Road, Liverpool Street and on towards the east. It is fast, modern and step-free, and a good middle ground between cost and speed.
The Piccadilly line on the Underground is the cheapest rail option. It takes longer, roughly an hour to the West End, but it runs directly to areas such as Kensington, Knightsbridge, Piccadilly Circus and Covent Garden, so it can be the most convenient if your hotel is nearby. You can pay with a contactless card on both.
Taxis, buses and late arrivals
Licensed black cabs wait at each terminal and are easy, if expensive, particularly when traffic is heavy. Pre-booked private hire cars can work out cheaper for groups or families with lots of luggage. Coaches also run to central London and are a budget alternative.
If you land late at night, check the last train times for your chosen route. Some services run less often late in the evening, and night buses are an option, though slower.
Before you land
Make the most of your trip by preparing before you leave home. Online check-in for AeroVista flights opens 72 hours before departure, so you can sort your seat and boarding pass in advance. On arrival, follow the signs from baggage reclaim to the rail and Underground stations, which are connected to the terminals. If you are using a contactless card, make sure it is enabled for overseas payments to avoid surprises at the ticket gates.
Good to know
- Tap in and out with the same contactless card to get the correct fare.
- Families with lots of bags may find a pre-booked car easiest.
- Allow extra time to reach Heathrow for your return flight at rush hour.