London Calling! Vacation Options for Every Budget

Stephanie P.

London is a city that blends timeless charm with modern magic. From afternoon tea in a centuries-old hotel to rooftop cocktails with skyline views of the London Eye, it’s a destination that effortlessly balances tradition and trend. Thankfully, points and miles can open the door to this iconic capital without draining your savings account.

We’ve rounded up the best hotels you can book on points—whether you’re after a chic boutique stay, a regal five-star experience, or something in between. With options for low-, medium-, and high-points-cost redemptions, there’s something here for every traveler and every point budget. Let’s turn your London getaway into reality.

 

When to Visit London

Spring (March–May):
Pros: Mild temperatures, blooming parks and gardens, and festivals.
Best for: Exploring green spaces, spring festivals, and events like the London Marathon.

Summer (June–August):
Pros: Warm weather, long daylight hours, and tons of festivals.
Cons: Higher prices and more crowds.

Autumn (September–November):
Pros: Fewer tourists, crisp air, and vibrant fall foliage.
Best for: Strolling through cozy neighborhoods, enjoying pubs, and catching fall events.

Winter (December–February):
Pros: Fewer crowds, festive markets, and possibly lower hotel rates.
Cons: Cold weather and shorter hours for some attractions.

 

Low-Points-Cost Stay

Flight: Virgin Atlantic Economy
From multiple U.S. cities, one-way flights to London from as little as 6,000! That is doable for anyone! We love these economy flight options because they make travel accessible for both solo and family travelers. Plus, you can find flights priced that low from many major U.S. cities.

 

Getting There: Choose from Boston, New York, Washington, DC, Atlanta, Tampa, Orlando, Miami, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Seattle, and San Francisco.
Points Required: 6,000 to 20,000 
Return: London → the US
Points Required: 6,000 to 20,000 

 

Why It Works:
Virgin Atlantic is a standout for budget-conscious travelers, offering flights from major cities and partnering with all major credit card programs, making booking simple. Economy seats are comfortable, and the service is consistently reliable, making it a solid pick for getting across the pond without burning a ton of points.

 

Stay: Hyatt Place London City East
12,000 to 18,000 World of Hyatt points per night

 

Photo from Hyatt.

 

This compact yet stylish hotel, located near Aldgate East Tube station, makes an ideal home base for sightseeing. Rooms are modern, comfortable, and thoughtfully designed, with some offering balconies overlooking the city skyline. It’s a great option for travelers who want comfort, style, and convenience without overspending.

 

Stay: Holiday Inn Express London-Hammersmith
22,000 to 52,000 IHG points per night

 

Photo from IHG.

 

Clean, comfortable, and well-located, this Holiday Inn Express is perfect for value-seeking travelers. It’s near a Tube station, features a generous free breakfast, and is close to shopping and the River Thames. Rooms are small but efficient, and the area is packed with dining options.

 

Medium-Points-Cost Stay

Flight: Virgin Atlantic Premium Economy

Outbound flights range from 18,000 points, with returns from as few as 10,500 points. If you are looking to arrive in London a little more rested and are willing to spend a few more points, the premium economy option with Virgin Atlantic is the golden ticket. The product may be the most underrated flight option in the points and miles space because you get the extra amenities of premium economy at a points cost that’s still less than most other airlines’ cost for regular economy. 

Route 1: Miami → London  Points Required:  18,000 to 21,000
Route 2: San Francisco → London  Points Required: 18,000 to 27,500
Route 3: New York→ London  Points Required: 20,000 to 29,000

Return 1: London → New York  Points Required: 10,500 to 12,000
Return 2: London → Washington DC  Points Required: 10,500 to 15,000
Return 3: London→Miami  Points Required: 16,000 to 22,000

Why It Works:
Virgin’s premium economy is a sweet spot for value and comfort. With wider seats that have more recline, better food, and top-tier service, it’s a worthwhile upgrade from economy. Easy point transfers and award availability from cities like Miami, San Francisco, and New York make it even better.

 

Stay: Hyatt Regency London Blackfriars
21,000 to 29,000 World of Hyatt points per night

Perfect for families, this hotel offers spacious rooms, a great location, and excellent perks like a club lounge with evening drinks and an impressive breakfast. Set near the Thames and Blackfriars Station, it provides quick access to major landmarks while offering a peaceful retreat. Read our review of this hotel here.

 

Photo from Hyatt.

 

Stay: Hyatt Regency London Albert Embankment
17,000 to 23,000 World of Hyatt points per night

This sleek riverside property is located near Westminster and Big Ben, with rooms offering gorgeous Thames views. Soundproof windows and plush beds guarantee a good night’s rest. A great choice for travelers who want modern luxury in a quieter, yet well-connected, location.

 

Photo from Hyatt.

 

High-Points-Cost Stay

Flight: Virgin Atlantic Upper Class
One-way business flights to London from 47,000 points, and return flights from 31,000 points. Many of the flights to London are red-eyes, so having the option to book lie-flat seats for under 100,000 points is a steal! If you are seeking luxury travel for less, Virgin Atlantic Upper Class will have you returning to London every year!

Route 1: Miami → London Points Required: 47,000 to 51,000
Route 2: San Francisco → London Points Required: 53,000 to 67,000
Return 1: London → Washington DC Points Required: 31,000 to 47,000
Return 2:  London → New York  Points Required: 33,000 to 58,000

Why It Works:
This is as luxe as it gets. Virgin Atlantic Upper Class features lie-flat beds, private suites, gourmet meals, and excellent amenities like REN skincare and noise-canceling headphones. With transfer partners and consistent award availability, this splurge can be one of the best points redemptions.

 

Stay: Park Hyatt London River Thames
25,000 to 35,000 World of Hyatt points per night

An elegant Category 7 hotel with panoramic river views, this property boasts luxurious rooms with modern British flair—think clawfoot tubs, floor-to-ceiling windows, and heated everything. Globalists enjoy additional perks, such as early check-in and breakfast at the excellent Nine Elms Kitchen. Read Pam’s review of this hotel here.

 

Photo from Hyatt.

 

Stay: Hyatt Regency London The Churchill
25,000 to 35,000 World of Hyatt points per night

Located in upscale Marylebone, The Churchill offers refined elegance with quick access to Oxford Street and Hyde Park. Renovated rooms, subtle Churchill nods, and a private garden create an upscale oasis in the heart of the city. It’s ideal for travelers who want both charm and centrality. Read Pam’s review of the Hyatt Regency London Churchill.

 

Photo from Hyatt.

 

Bottom Line

Is London calling you? London is one of those cities that has something for everyone—whether you’re drawn to royal palaces, cutting-edge art, or just a really good pub lunch. And while it’s true that this iconic capital can be pricey, using points and miles can transform an expensive dream into a smart, rewarding reality. From cozy budget stays to grandiose escapes, there’s no shortage of ways to explore the city in style, without emptying your wallet. So, whether you’re a seasoned points pro or just getting started, let this guide be your ticket to the ultimate London adventure. After all, the only thing better than sipping tea with a view of Big Ben is knowing you got there on points. Cheers, mate!

 

Related Posts

Last-Minute Business Award Flight to London

Reader Success Story to London and Edinburgh

Boston to London on Virgin Atlantic

The Ultimate London Itinerary

 

Stephanie

London

Opinions, reviews, analyses & recommendations are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, endorsed or approved by any of these entities. American Express is a Travel Mom Squad advertiser, but we always show the best public offer even when we don’t earn a commission. Terms Apply. 

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