Heathrow is the UK’s biggest and busiest airport, and millions of people use it every year to travel to other parts of the world. On the other hand, London City Airport, which is closer to the city’s commercial area, is a popular choice for business travelers and people going to Europe. Even though both are important London areas, getting from one to the other isn’t always easy because of the transport system and unpredictable traffic.

If you are traveling for the first time, it can be hard to figure out the best way to get from one airport to the other, as there are so many options. But don’t get confused. It really depends on your plans, budget, and travel preferences, so it is going to help you out a lot if you figure out your plan in advance.

As you are here, we will help you by telling you how to get from Heathrow to London City Airport. Whether you want the quickest route, the most affordable, or simply a stress-free experience, you’ll find everything you need right here.

Where is London City Airport?

You are going to London City Airport, so it is best to know a little bit about the Airport, too.  London City Airport is situated in the Royal Docks area of East London. It is a popular option for business travelers who want to go to the capital’s important financial districts, like Canary Wharf and the City, as it is just 6 miles from London.

Even though London City Airport is smaller than the city’s other big airports, it mostly handles short trips within the UK and Europe, mostly to places that business travelers want to go. The airport also caters to a variety of travelers, as it provides a variety of recreational routes. 

Jannah Express offers a variety of services to further improve the travel experience. From quick eats to duty-free shopping, the airport provides travelers with the necessary services while waiting for their flights. This airport is perfect for people who want to make the most of their stay in London by cutting down on travel time and maximizing comfort.

As this airport is in a good spot, London City Airport is easy to get to from many parts of the city. Whether you’re flying from Heathrow or planning your route from London City Airport to the city, there are various easy methods to get there, guaranteeing a smooth and fast journey between these two main London airports.

Best ways to travel between Heathrow Airport to London City Airport

Below you will get the best ways to travel between Heathrow and London City Airport:

Heathrow Express

The Heathrow Express provides a fast and efficient way for Heathrow to London City Airport. You can get to Paddington Station from Heathrow Terminals 2, 3, and 5 in just 15 minutes. The Heathrow Express operates from early morning until late at night, with services starting at around 5 AM and running until almost midnight, making it a trustworthy option no matter when your flight lands. With its clear signs and regular departure times, the Heathrow Express is easy to find and get on, even for first-time visitors.

The distance from Heathrow Terminal 5 to London City Airport is around 40 kilometers or 26 miles. Typically, the train journey takes about an hour and a half, depending on the number of stops and waiting times. 

Passengers will receive complimentary Wi-Fi and USB charging points at each seat, and there will be a huge storage space for their belongings. Children aged 15 or under can travel for free, a reasonable option for families with kids. 

And for those who want even more comfort, there’s an option to upgrade to Business First Class, which has more roomy seating. Although the price for the Heathrow Express is a bit higher then other options, if you book in advance you will get discounts. 

Tips

You can purchase an Oyster Card. It is similar to a prepaid debit card specifically designed for travel purposes. Depending on your travel requirements, you can determine the amount of money you wish to load onto the card. You can add more funds to the card at any stands located throughout the airport and the city.

London Underground

For travelers traveling from Heathrow to London City Airport, both the Piccadilly Line and the new Elizabeth Line provide quick and affordable options. The Piccadilly Line connects Heathrow directly to numerous stations throughout London; this option works like a charm for those who want to see the city on their way to the airport. The Elizabeth Line provides a faster route with fewer stops in major districts. 

But it is essential to note that London Underground trains, designed for travelers, do not have dedicated luggage storage and it is quite difficult to put luggage as there is a crowd during rush hours. It is stressful for those with large parties or heavy bags.

National Express

The National Express coach service is another way to get from Heathrow to London City Airport. National Express has long-distance routes across the UK and operates daily from Heathrow to several places in London, including Victoria Coach Station, the city’s main transportation center. 

Once you arrive at Victoria Coach Station, the journey should take between 1.5 and 2 hours, depending on traffic. While it will take longer than the train, As you go on your way, you will enjoy the sights of London’s areas and metropolitan landscapes. Thinking about your comfort, you will get  Wi-Fi, power outlets, soft seating, and air conditioning. 

If you have a lot of luggage, this is a great option because the coaches have a lot of storage room, making it easier to keep track of your things than on the more crowded trains.

The National Express service runs from early morning to late at night, with buses departing at regular intervals, making it a dependable option regardless of when you arrive at Heathrow.

Black Cab

If you want a classic London experience, you can use one of the city’s renowned black cabs from Heathrow to London City Airport. These historic taxis, known for their large interiors and ability to transport up to five passengers and luggage, provide a smooth trip. Whether you pick one up from a taxi stand at Heathrow or hail one on the street, black cabs are a dependable and comfortable way to get around the city.

One of the best things about black cabs is that they can use bus lanes, which can reduce travel time, especially during rush hours. This makes them an excellent choice for people who wish to avoid the stress of using public transport with big bags or who simply prefer the ease of door-to-door service.

Private Transfer

If you’re looking for a personalized car service, you should definitely try Jannah Express. A private transfer from Heathrow to London City Airport is a convenient and individual way to travel. Our service is specifically customized to your needs to make sure you have a worry-free experience from the time you land. When you arrive, your driver will be there at the arrivals gate, holding a sign with your name. Our driver will help you with your luggage and guide you to the vehicle.

No matter who you’re traveling with—whether your family, friends, or just yourself—we offer a variety of vehicles to choose from.  With private transportation, you can go straight from Heathrow to London City Airport without difficulty, whereas public transport is crowded and needs more than one transfer.

Depending on the traffic, it will take 50-70 minutes to reach the Airport. And this service is quite convenient. You will get fixed price rate, so you don’t have to stress about traffic delays or unexpected expenses.

With Jannah Express, you have the freedom to personalize your trip by selecting child car seats, and pet-friendly vehicles or making special requests for wheelchairs. When you book your transfer in advance, you can travel through London with peace in mind knowing that your transportation is booked and customized to meet your needs.

FAQ

How long does it take from Heathrow to London City Airport?

It really depends on your transportation mode, traffic conditions, and time of day; the travel can take between 50 minutes and 2 hours. 

Is it possible to travel directly from Heathrow to London City Airport without changing trains?

Unfortunately, there is no direct train service connecting the two airports. But, you can reduce your time by taking the Heathrow Express to Paddington and then the Elizabeth Line to London City Airport.

How much luggage can I bring on public transport?

Public transportation has no luggage limit, but the space is limited, particularly during busy hours. You will get a more spacious luggage room on National Express than on trains or the London Underground.

Bottom Line

When planning your trip from Heathrow to London City Airport, there are various options to consider. Each option offers a unique opportunity to explore London during your transfer. No matter what kind of transportation you choose—a train, a bus, or a private car—the trip from Heathrow to London City Airport is just as exciting as your destination. Pick the one that works best for you from the options given above.