Published on : 09 May 20194 min reading time

Despite an ever-rising cost of living, London continues to attract visitors and expats from all over the world as a magnet, especially the French. It is nicknamed the 6th largest French city in the world! This multicultural megalopolis and international economic platform is still a sort of European eldorado for people looking for opportunities.

If you are planning to move to the UK to settle in London, you will be living with more than 50 nationalities in a bustling city that never sleeps. With its thousands of museums, galleries and events of international stature as well as the famous City, London stands out as the economic and cultural capital of the Old Continent.

Neighborhoods to live in London

Do not know where to live in London? This sprawling city is home to many extremely eclectic neighborhoods.

Family Neighborhoods

  • Chiswick (pronounced “tchisik”) is a quiet and residential area popular with families, especially young couples with children. The atmosphere is warm and lively, with many small shops, pubs and green spaces on the banks of the Thames.
  • West Kensington is also a great neighborhood for families, who enjoy walking around to take their children to school or shop.

Top Neighborhoods

  • South Kensington is one of the most popular areas of the British capital, especially with French expatriates. In the city center, it houses beautiful Victorian houses and numerous cafes. Rents are very high.
  • Knightsbridge is an upscale neighborhood with big luxury brands like Harrods, Dior or Louboutin. It is the district of the famous Victoria and Albert Museum, the largest museum of art and decoration in the world.

Trendy Neighborhoods

  • London is a trendy city by definition and there are many trendy neighborhoods. The Camden Town neighborhood is very popular with young active and alternative musicians for its markets and lively atmosphere. Cradle of the underground culture of London, you will not find big signs but a host of crazy little shops.
  • Notting Hill is a popular area, especially since the film of the same name. Despite fairly modest origins, the neighborhood is now chic and trendy. The most famous events in Notting Hill are Carnival (in August) and the Portobello Road Flea Market.

Promising Neighborhoods

  • Earl’s Court is undergoing a transformation and will be rehabilitated with new infrastructure. This well-positioned historic district is a boon for investors, as prices are still reasonable compared to the neighboring neighborhood of South Kensington.
  • Fulham is a quite upscale neighborhood but prices stay below those of South Kensington. Therefore, it is an excellent area if you plan to move to London. You will appreciate its many parks and restaurants.

Transport in London

London is a sprawling city and unless you stay in the hyper-center, transport is essential. Single trips are extremely expensive, so be sure to purchase a rechargeable Oyster card upon arrival. Good to know, under 11s travel for free and under 16s get discounts. One of the particularities of London’s transport system is that the price of the ticket varies according to the time.

The metro operates from 5am and stops between 23h and 1h depending on the lines. Some oars are open all night on weekends. You may have some difficulties at the beginning because subways going in different directions pass on the same platform. But you will get used to it quickly!

The bus is an economical alternative to the metro, and who has not dreamed of taking the beautiful British red buses every day? In addition, if your Oyster card is empty while boarding the bus, you are entitled to a free ride to the next point of sale. Some bus lines run all night.

If you live in the suburbs, you can take the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) or Overground trains.

Finally, it is also possible to travel by boat along the Thames at attractive rates, and Oyster card holders receive a 10% discount.