Best Hotels Near City Airport London & ExceL Exhibition Centre

London City Airport and the ExCeL Exhibition Centre are located around Royal Victoria Dock, about 6 miles (9.6 km) east of Central London. This area offers a range of modern chain hotels, many positioned on or near the waterfront, which has become a vibrant leisure hub with bars and restaurants. Hotel rates in this area can fluctuate depending on events at the ExCeL Centre or the nearby O2 Arena, but it’s a convenient and accessible spot for travelers.

About the Docklands Area

City Airport sits south of the dock, while the ExCeL Exhibition Centre is on the north side, both directly on the waterfront. The old Docklands area has been completely redeveloped into a modern district. The Docklands Light Railway (DLR) provides fast, frequent transport to Central London, and buses connect City Airport to the ExCeL Centre.

Is City Airport the Right Location for Your Stay?

If you’re attending events at the ExCeL Centre or O2 Arena, this area is ideal. Public transport makes it easy to reach Central London, and prices here are often slightly lower than nearby Canary Wharf, which also offers excellent hotels and stunning river views.

Alternative Areas Nearby

For a different experience, consider Canary Wharf, just a short distance away, or head toward Central London for more hotel options.

Our Hand-Picked Selection of Hotels Near City Airport and ExCeL

Travelodge London City Airport

The closest hotel to City Airport, this budget-friendly option is within walking distance with luggage. Rooms feature comfy king-size beds, and an optional upgrade offers amenities like rain showers and coffee machines. A bar and café serve breakfast starting at 6 am on weekdays.

Facilities: Free Wi-Fi (30 mins), bar & café, family rooms, tea/coffee facilities, paid parking.

Nearest Tube: 5-min walk to London City Airport.

Travelodge London Excel

Located 10 minutes’ walk from the ExCeL Centre along the dockside, this hotel offers waterside views and easy access to the DLR. The on-site restaurant serves breakfast from 6 am and evening meals. Family rooms are available.

Facilities: Free Wi-Fi (30 mins), bar & café, family rooms, tea/coffee facilities, paid parking.

Nearest Tube: 5-min walk to Royal Albert.

ibis London Excel Docklands

Situated a minute from the ExCeL Centre and the Emirates Air Line cable car, this hotel offers comfortable “cocoon” rooms with power showers. Explore local waterside bars and restaurants nearby.

Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, bar & restaurant, paid parking, family rooms, 24-hr front desk.

Nearest Tube: 4-min walk to Royal Victoria.

Premier Inn London Docklands

Next to the ExCeL Centre, this budget-friendly hotel offers relaxing accommodations with waterside views and an all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet. Rooms are air-conditioned with private bathrooms.

Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, bar & restaurant, kids eat breakfast free, family rooms, 24-hr front desk.

Nearest Tube: 2-min walk to Prince Regent.

Crowne Plaza London Docklands

This luxury hotel features a stunning indoor pool, modern fitness studio, and spa treatments. Guests can enjoy a stylish restaurant and cocktail bar, with rooms offering high-quality linens and flat-screen TVs.

Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, terrace, bar & restaurant, indoor pool, spa, family rooms, ticket desk, paid parking.

Nearest Tube: 2-min walk to Royal Victoria.

DoubleTree by Hilton London Excel

Right on the waterfront and a 5-minute walk from the ExCeL Centre, this luxury hotel offers suites with balconies overlooking the dock. Enjoy a fitness center, sustainable dining, and signature cocktails at the bar.

Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, bar & restaurant, terrace, fitness center, room service, ticket service.

Nearest Tube: 5-min walk to Prince Regent.

Aloft London Excel

Located next to the ExCeL Centre and Prince Regent DLR station, Aloft offers modern rooms with high ceilings and extra-large windows. Guests can enjoy an indoor pool, sauna, steam room, and live music performances.

Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, bar & restaurant, kids under 5 eat free, terrace, live music, paid parking, 24-hour snacks.

Nearest Tube: 2-min walk to Prince Regent.

This area is perfect for those attending ExCeL Centre events or visiting the O2 Arena, with excellent transport links to Central London and a mix of budget and luxury accommodations.