More Information about London

Destination Overview

As the financial center of the UK, Europe and much of the world, London is a vast metropolis that has attracted visitors, artists, explorers and observers for centuries. At the heart of English culture, it has sparked the imaginations of individuals such as William Shakespeare, Charles Dickens, H.G. Wells, George Orwell and countless others over the years. Come and be inspired. Jump into the shopper’s paradise that is Oxford Street, prepare to be amazed at one of the many museums dotted throughout the city, voyage up and down the Thames and soak up all the sights, sounds and sensations this stunning city has in store.

Flying to London

1. Which Airports serve Johannesburg to London?

Direct flights to London from Johannesburg depart from The O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg and land at London Heathrow Airport. From Heathrow, you can get to London quickly and easily via the London Underground, or you can hop in a taxi or rent a car from the airport as well.

2. Which Airlines operate flights from Johannesburg to London?

Direct flights from Johannesburg are offered by British Airways, South African and Virgin Atlantic. If you are happy with a short layover, there are other carriers offering this route, including KLM, Lufthansa, and Air France.

3. How long is the flight?

A direct flight to London from Johannesburg will take about 11 hours and 15 minutes. Flights with one-stop layovers may take up to 16 hours or more. Johannesburg is 2 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), which is the time in London during winter. In summer, however, this will go back on hour.

4. Climate changes between Johannesburg and London

The Johannesburg winter is summer in London, and vice versa, so pack accordingly. Traveling in December or January, from the heat of a South African summer to the much colder, wetter weather in London will be a big change. If you are traveling in June or July, London will usually be substantially warmer than Johannesburg.

5. Culture differences and need-to-know

Although Johannesburg is a large city in its own right, London can feel like an urban jungle at any time of the year. However, it will be easy to fit in with the locals, not only because English is the predominant language in London, but also because the city is such a melting pot of different cultures, there is something to welcome every visitor in this vast, exciting city.

City Information

London is a city steeped in history and tradition, with a wide variety of experiences to sample. Watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, explore the Tower of London, or browse the many museums and art galleries scattered throughout the city. If you want a break from the big city bustle, London has a variety of parks and green spaces, from Kensington Gardens, where you will find the Princess Diana Memorial Playground, to Regent’s Park, home of the world-renowned London Zoo.