How Do I Get From the Airport to London City?
Arriving in London for business or leisure and wondering how to get from the airport to London City? You’re not alone. London is served by multiple international airports, each located in a different direction from the city centre, and choosing the right transfer option can make a big difference to your journey.
Whether you land at London City Airport, Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, or Luton, this guide explains all the best ways to reach London City, comparing public transport, taxis, and private airport transfers so you can travel with confidence.
For fast, professional, door-to-door transfers across London, start here.
What Do We Mean by “London City”?
“London City” usually refers to Central London or the City of London financial district, including areas such as:
Bank
Liverpool Street
Canary Wharf
London Bridge
Westminster
Your total travel time and cost will depend on which airport you arrive at and which part of London City you’re heading to.
From London City Airport (LCY) to London City
London City Airport is the closest airport to London City, located just 6–7 miles away, making it the fastest and easiest arrival point.
Best Ways to Travel
DLR (Docklands Light Railway) → Bank / Canary Wharf / Stratford
Taxi or private airport transfer → direct door-to-door
Travel time: 15–30 minutes
Cost: £3–£6 (DLR) | £35–£75 (car/taxi)
Private transfers from LCY are ideal for business travellers and those with luggage.
Explore services here:👉 https://londoncitytransfer.co.uk/
From Heathrow Airport to London City
Heathrow Airport is located west of London and handles most long-haul international flights.
Public Transport Option
Piccadilly Line (Underground) → Central London
⏱️ 50–60 minutes
💷 £5–£6.50
Taxi or Private Transfer (Most Comfortable)
Direct pickup from terminals
Ideal after long flights or with luggage
45–75 minutes (traffic-dependent)
£70–£120
Book or learn more about Heathrow transfers
From Gatwick Airport to London City
Gatwick Airport sits south of London and is well connected by rail.
Cheapest Train Option
Thameslink to London Bridge / Blackfriars
⏱️ 30–40 minutes
💷 £9–£12
Stress-Free Option
Taxi or private airport transfer
⏱️ 60–90 minutes
💷 £90–£140
View Gatwick transfer
From Stansted Airport to London City
Stansted is popular with low-cost European airlines and is located northeast of London.
Budget Option
National Express coach
⏱️ 60–80 minutes
💷 £10–£14
Faster & Easier Option
Private transfer or taxi
⏱️ 50–70 minutes
💷 £90–£140
See Stansted transfer services
From Luton Airport to London City
Luton Airport lies north of London and requires a shuttle connection for trains.
Lowest-Cost Route
Shuttle bus + Thameslink train
⏱️ 40–60 minutes
💷 £15–£20
Simplest Door-to-Door Option
Taxi or private transfer
⏱️ 60–90 minutes
💷 £80–£130
Check Luton airport transfer options
Public Transport vs Taxi vs Private Transfer
Public Transport
✔ Cheapest option
✔ Frequent services
❌ Less convenient with luggage
❌ Multiple changes
Taxi
✔ Flexible
✔ No changes
❌ Metered pricing
❌ Traffic delays
Private Airport Transfer
✔ Fixed price
✔ Door-to-door service
✔ 24/7 availability
✔ Ideal for groups, luggage & business travel
For many travellers, private transfers offer the best balance of comfort, reliability, and time savings.
Quick Comparison: Airport to London City
| Airport | Cheapest Option | Cost | Most Comfortable Option | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| London City | DLR | £3–£6 | Private Transfer | 15–25 min |
| Heathrow | Tube | £5–£6.50 | Private Transfer | 45–75 min |
| Gatwick | Thameslink | £9–£12 | Private Transfer | 60–90 min |
| Stansted | Coach | £10–£14 | Private Transfer | 50–70 min |
| Luton | Shuttle + Train | £15–£20 | Private Transfer | 60–90 min |
Which Is the Best Way to Get to London City?
Fastest & easiest: Private airport transfer
Cheapest: Public transport
Best for luggage & families: Private transfer
Best for business travellers: Pre-booked executive transfer
If you want a smooth, stress-free arrival in London City, booking a professional airport transfer in advance is the smartest choice.
Final Thoughts
Getting from the airport to London City is straightforward once you understand your options. From quick DLR connections at London City Airport to reliable private transfers from Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, and Luton, there’s a solution for every traveller.
Planning ensures you start your London journey calm, comfortable, and on time.
