Your guide to London

Set between Toronto and Detroit, London, Ontario, combines easy outdoor access with a lively arts and brewery scene. Days here can mean cycling through riverside parks, heading south towards the beaches of Lake Erie or browsing museums and independent shops around the city centre. Our London, Ontario travel guide also explores the live music venues, festivals and local breweries that give this southwestern Ontario city its energy after dark.

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London highlights

City of music

Canada’s first UNESCO City of Music will keep you grooving all night long. Whether it’s big band and blues at The Aeolian Hall or rock and pop at Budweiser Gardens, there’s a show pretty much every night of the week in London. The city turns up the volume in summer with patio concerts and pop-up performances. Don’t miss events like the Aeolian Jazz and Musical Arts Festival and Rock the Park.

Nature on your doorstep

Home to more than 490 parks and four million trees, London deserves the nickname ‘Forest City’. Discover the great outdoors on your stay in London, Ontario, at Victoria Park, Kains Woods and other natural areas. Connecting it all are miles of pathways and trails, including the riverside Thames Valley Parkway. Set off on foot, bike or kayak and create your own adventure.

Where to stay

Choose a hotel downtown to be steps from London’s best bars, restaurants, museums and riverfront parks. You’ll find a range of options on Dundas Street between downtown and London International Airport. South of the centre, reliable chains along Wellington Road put you close to the 150-plus shops at White Oaks Mall.

London: Know before you go

Language	English, French
Currency	Canadian dollar ($)
Time zone	UTC-6 (CST) and UTC-5 (CDT)
High season	July - August
Low season	January - February

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Things to do in London

Take in the culture

Art enthusiasts will want to spend time browsing a collection of around 5,000 works at Museum London. Visit Eldon House and Fanshawe Pioneer Village to experience life in the 1800s. Holidaying with the kids? Explore a world of art, history and science via the hands-on exhibits at London Children’s Museum.

Nightlife

London’s nightlife is big on sipping beers from small-batch breweries and cocktails mixed with locally distilled spirits. Join the college crowd at the pubs, bars and nightclubs on Richmond Row. Patio season kicks in when temperatures rise in summer. With more than 50 to choose from in town, you’ll always find a lively spot for a drink in the sun.

Places to eat

From Greek spinach pie and Mexican quesadillas to spicy Indian curries, London’s food scene reflects the city’s diverse communities. Covent Garden Market is a one-stop venue to satisfy your culinary needs. Grab breakfast and lunch at one of more than 20 restaurants. And if you’re here between June and September, fill your picnic basket with goodies from local merchants at the Saturday Outdoor Farmers Market.

FAQs about visiting London

What is the coldest month in London?

Plan your London, Ontario trip for January and you'll be there at the coolest time of the year. -13ºC (9ºF) is as cold as it gets.

How many days do you need in London, Ontario?

Plan a visit to London, Ontario lasting at least three days. This will give you plenty of time to visit museums, explore riverfront parks and sample the food scene. Book for a week and include day trips to the nearby Great Lakes. Port Stanley, on Lake Erie, is only a 40-minute drive away.

How expensive is a trip to London?

Whether you go big or keep it budget-friendly, your travel style will help determine the cost. When budgeting for your London, Ontario flights and hotels, consider all the options, from flying economy or first class to booking basic or high-end stays. The time of year also matters, with some seasons offering better deals for a city break in London, Ontario.

What is the rainiest month in London?

With an average rainfall of 110 millimetres, June is the rainiest month to visit London, Ontario. When the drizzle sets in, venture indoors and make the most of the city's shopping malls, art galleries, cafes and more.

What language is spoken in London?

English is widely spoken here. Brush up on some local words and phrases during your city break in London, Ontario and you'll fit right in.

When is the best time to visit London?

The warm summer months are peak season here, with events like Canada Day London and London Pride Festival. Autumn is also popular, especially for experiencing the beauty of Canada’s harvest colours. Book winter flights and hotels to London, Ontario to ski at Boler Mountain and have fun at outdoor skating rinks.

What currency is used in London?

The Canadian dollar (CAD) is the currency you'll be using for day-to-day purchases and excursions while in London, Ontario.

What is the hottest month in London?

The hottest month in London, Ontario is July, when temperatures hit a maximum of 27ºC (81ºF).

Is it safe to visit London?

London, Ontario is generally safe to visit, but it's always a good idea to take some precautions wherever you go. Be mindful of your surroundings, particularly in crowded places, and make sure your valuables are secure. Also use official transport options whenever possible during your stay in London, Ontario.

Is London a good place to visit?

If you want a big city with a small-town vibe that’s bursting with cultural attractions and year-round events, London, Ontario is a good choice. Throw in hundreds of accessible parks and proximity to the Great Lakes, and you’re in for an unforgettable trip to London, Ontario.

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