Flying to London on Points: Aeroplan, Avios or Flying Blue?
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To fly to London on points from Canada, compare three options: Aeroplan from 32,500 points one-way in economy on a partner airline, British Airways Avios on off-peak dates and Flying Blue Promo Rewards. This winter, you have non-stop flights from six Canadian cities, and the UK's £20 Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is mandatory.
London works just as well for a first trip to Europe as for a stopover of a few days: you'll find major free museums, neighbourhoods that each have their own character, and several ways to get there with your points.
How to travel to London with points?
London has many airports, even if London-Heathrow is considered as the main one. Therefore, when you are seeking flights, search for all London airports by imputing LON as the destination code.
For example, Air Transat offers competitive cash fares to London-Gatwick; if you’ve been only looking for itineraries to Heathrow, they will not show on the result page.
Non-Stop Flights to London This Winter
This winter, from October 25, 2026 to March 27, 2027, you have non-stop flights to London from six Canadian cities. Air Canada serves Heathrow from each of them, and Air Transat flies Toronto–Gatwick year-round; its Montreal–Gatwick flight only returns in season.
| Departure city | Non-stop airlines this winter | London airport |
|---|---|---|
| Toronto | Air Canada, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic; Air Transat | Heathrow; Gatwick (Air Transat) |
| Montreal | Air Canada, British Airways | Heathrow (Air Transat to Gatwick: seasonal only) |
| Vancouver | Air Canada, British Airways | Heathrow |
| Calgary | Air Canada, WestJet | Heathrow |
| Ottawa | Air Canada | Heathrow |
| Halifax | Air Canada | Heathrow |
| Quebec City, Winnipeg, Edmonton | No non-stop flight: connect through Toronto or Montreal | – |
Once you land, the Heathrow Express takes you to Paddington station in 15 minutes, with a departure every 15 minutes: a one-way ticket costs £26 bought on the day, and from £10 booked 30 days ahead. The Elizabeth line and the Piccadilly line on the Tube cost less but take longer. From Gatwick, the Gatwick Express reaches Victoria in about 30 minutes. On the Tube, pay with a contactless card: TfL caps your fares at £8.90 a day in zones 1 and 2, as long as you always use the same card.
Travel Rewards
Depending on the cash price of the flight to London, travel rewards might be the way to go if you cannot achieve a reasonable valuation with an award flight.
Airfare to London greatly varies, but it is not uncommon to find affordable flights to the United Kingdom from Canada. Indeed, it often comes out as the inexpensive gateway into Europe when you use the Explore feature on Google Flights.
To cover your expenses with travel points, you can book the cheapest flight you can find through Expedia For TD with the TD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* Card, then pay for that ticket with your TD Rewards points. Its welcome bonus, up to 160,000 TD Rewards points, helps you reduce the cost of the ticket.
Aeroplan
The standard cost for a flight from Montreal to London with Aeroplan is 32,500 points for a one-way, as of June 1, 2026. That price is fixed if all segments are operated by a partner airline.
While Swiss, Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines, etc. are also partner airlines, a flight with them might cost more than that because the total distance flown will be more than 4,000 miles since you must have to connect flights mostly East of London before backtracking. Therefore, it will be at 42,500 points, as of June 1, 2026.
Travelling through EWR with United Airlines but using Air Canada on the first segment can sometimes bring the cost below 32,500 points: compare both routings in the Aeroplan booking tool.
Finally, Air Canada flights are priced dynamically: on some dates, even last-minute ones, the points price stays reasonable. Always compare it with the cash fare using the method below.
Is your Aeroplan redemption good value?
To judge a redemption, compare it with the cash price of the same flight in the same fare. Subtract the taxes and fees you pay on the reward ticket from that cash price, then divide the result by the number of points. The answer is the value of each point, in cents.
For example, if a Flex fare costs $1,000 in cash and the same flight costs 40,000 points plus $200 in taxes and fees, each point is worth 2 cents: ($1,000 - $200) / 40,000. As of September 2026, Milesopedia values Aeroplan points at 2 cents each. A result close to that mark or above it is a good use of your points. Well below it, paying cash and keeping your points for a better redemption can make more sense.
On Air Canada flights, economy rewards come in three fare options: Standard, Flex and Latitude. The extra points mainly buy flexibility. Here are the change and cancellation fees for a reward booked on aircanada.com, according to the Aeroplan Flight Reward Policy as of September 2026:
- Standard: $75 per direction to change, $150 per ticket to cancel
- Flex: no change fee, $75 per ticket to cancel
- Latitude: no change or cancellation fee
Through the Aeroplan Contact Centre, fees are higher: $100 to change and $175 to cancel a Standard reward, and $125 to cancel a Flex reward. So compare a Flex reward with the Flex cash fare, not with the cheapest cash fare. If your dates are firm, also check the Standard option: you only pay for the flexibility you need.
To earn enough Aeroplan points for your trip to London, you can subscribe for one of these cards with generous bonuses:
| Credit card | Annual fee | Welcome offer | |
|---|---|---|---|
| $599 | |||
| $0 | |||
| $599 | |||
| $120 |
Avios
Avios is an obvious currency to use to travel to London as the country’s flagship airline uses it. British Airways also operates flights to all three major hubs in Canada.
On British Airways, a long-haul reward flight starts at 55,000 Avios plus a fixed cash amount that covers taxes and carrier charges, according to the British Airways Reward Flights page. The exact price depends on the date, distance and cabin: off-peak dates cost you fewer Avios, and you can also use fewer Avios by paying a larger cash amount.
American Express Membership Rewards and RBC Avion Elite are transfer partners making it very easy to earn Avios in Canada in addition to the RBC British Airways Visa Infinite, where you can accumulate Avios directly. With American Express, 1,000 points transfer to 1,000 Avios, and transfer bonuses come back regularly.
| Credit card | Annual fee | Welcome offer | |
|---|---|---|---|
| $191.88 | |||
| $250 | |||
| $799 |
Flying Blue
Flying Blue is another good option to travel to London on points, with a connection in Paris or Amsterdam, or non-stop from Toronto on its partner Virgin Atlantic. Its prices vary with the date and demand. On the first day of each month, the program releases a new Promo Rewards campaign with up to 25% off on selected routes: from Montreal, Europe has been offered from 18,750 Miles one-way in economy.
Your Flying Blue Miles also work on Virgin Atlantic, which flies non-stop from Toronto to Heathrow year-round, 3 times a week in winter. Virgin Atlantic also serves London from New York: an option worth comparing in business class if you're starting in the U.S.
- Annual feeNo annual fee the first year
- $0 $132
- Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimate First-year valueAnnual fee rebated$132Total$132Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
- $132
- Welcome offer+ 60 XP
- 60 XP + First Year Annual Fee Rebate
Apply Now
on Brim's website
Where to stay in London with points?
Marriott Bonvoy & Hilton Honors
There are plenty of Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors properties in London. However, they are pretty pricey.
You can use the free night certificate from the Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card, but the choice might be limited for your dates.
Nonetheless, those free night awards can have tremendous value compared with the cash price.
Airbnb & Independent Hotels
The most economical accommodation options in London will be with Airbnb and independent hotels. Therefore, the best strategy is to earn flexible travel points that you then apply to those expenses for a statement credit. Airbnb has many affordable rooms in London.
| Credit card | Annual fee | Welcome offer | |
|---|---|---|---|
| $0 | |||
| $0 |
Things to do in London
London – The British Museum
The British Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in history. With its vast collection of over eight million objects, the museum tells the story of human civilization from its earliest days to the present. The museum’s most famous artifacts include the Rosetta Stone, the Parthenon Sculptures (also known as the Elgin Marbles), and the Sutton Hoo treasure. Entry is free: book a free timed ticket in advance to skip the queue at busy times. The museum is closed December 24 to 26.
London – Tower of London and Tower Bridge
The Tower of London and Tower Bridge are two distinct landmarks in London, England.
The Tower of London is a historic castle on the north bank of the River Thames that was built in the 11th century. Throughout history, it has served as a royal palace, a prison, a treasury, and a menagerie, among other things. Today, you can see the United Kingdom’s Crown Jewels there.
Tower Bridge, on the other hand, is a well-known bridge that spans the River Thames and is located near the Tower of London. It was constructed in the late 1800s and is a popular symbol of London. Tower Bridge is frequently confused with London Bridge, which is located upstream.
London – The London Eye
The London Eye is one of the city’s most iconic attractions. This giant Ferris wheel stands 135 metres tall and offers breathtaking views of London’s skyline. You can choose a standard ticket, a Fast Track ticket with priority entry, or the Champagne Experience, which adds a glass of Moët & Chandon champagne to priority entry. The London Eye is especially magical at night when the city is illuminated.
London – Buckingham Palace
No trip to London would be complete without a visit to Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch. In summer, from July to September, you can tour the State Rooms. From November 6, 2026 to January 31, 2027, a guided tour of the East Wing runs Friday to Monday. You can also watch the Changing of the Guard in front of the palace, generally on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 11 a.m.: dates change often, so check the official Changing the Guard calendar before you go.
London – Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey is a historic Gothic church in London, England, where many royal coronations, weddings, and burials have taken place. Many famous figures from British history, including Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, and Geoffrey Chaucer, are buried there. The intricate architecture and beautiful stained-glass windows of the church make it a popular tourist attraction, and you can take a guided tour to learn more about its fascinating history and significance to British culture.
London – West End
The West End is London’s entertainment district and is home to some of the world’s best theatres, cinemas, and live music venues. You can see anything from blockbuster musicals to the Harry Potter and the Cursed Child show, playing at the Palace Theatre (tickets on sale through June 27, 2027). You can also explore the area’s trendy shops, bars, and restaurants, which are popular with locals and tourists alike.
Piccadilly Circus is a well-known public space and road junction in London‘s West End. It is famous for its large video display and neon signs mounted on the corner building, making it a popular tourist attraction and meeting spot. The junction is surrounded by shops, theatres, restaurants, and nightclubs, so you'll find shopping and entertainment within a few steps. With several major roads converging at the junction and the Piccadilly Circus tube station nearby, it is also a busy transportation hub.
London – Camden Market
Camden Market is another famous destination for visitors to London. This vibrant shopping district offers a diverse range of independent stores and street food stalls. The market is known for its alternative and bohemian vibe, and you can find everything from vintage clothing to handmade jewelry and artisanal food. Camden Market is especially lively on the weekends, when street performers and musicians add to the festive atmosphere.
London – St Paul’s Cathedral
St. Paul’s Cathedral is one of London’s most recognizable landmarks. Sir Christopher Wren designed the cathedral, completed in 1710. You can climb 378 steps to the Stone Gallery, then continue to the Golden Gallery at the top of the dome for views over the whole city. Sightseeing is open Monday to Saturday.
London – Hyde Park
Hyde Park is one of the largest parks in London and is a favourite spot for locals and visitors alike. It covers 350 acres (about 142 hectares) of green space in central London and offers a range of activities, from cycling and boating to picnicking and sunbathing. You can also explore some of the park’s famous landmarks, such as the Serpentine Lake and the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain.
London – Tate Modern
The Tate Modern is one of the world’s leading contemporary art museums and is a must-see for art lovers. Its free collection displays bring together modern and contemporary art from around the world, including works by Pablo Picasso. Major temporary exhibitions are ticketed, so you can see the collection for free and only pay for the exhibition you want.
London – The British Library
The British Library is one of the largest libraries in the world, with over 170 million items. Its free Treasures Gallery, open seven days a week, shows you some of the most remarkable items in the collection.
In addition to its exhibits, the British Library has several events and talks throughout the year, including exhibitions, workshops, and lectures. It is a must-visit destination for book lovers and culture enthusiasts.
London – Shakespeare’s Globe
Shakespeare’s Globe is a recreation of William Shakespeare’s original Globe Theatre, where his plays were performed in the 16th and 17th centuries. The open-air theatre in London was designed to replicate the original Globe, including its circular shape and thatched roof.
From spring to autumn, you can see plays in the open-air Globe; in winter, the program moves to the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, an indoor theatre lit by candlelight. Guided tours of the theatre also run in winter, and the Globe has a library and archive devoted to Shakespeare.
London – The National Gallery
The National Gallery is a London art museum that houses over 2,600 Western European works from the 13th to the 19th centuries. The museum collection includes works by some of history’s most famous artists, including Leonardo da Vinci, Vincent van Gogh, and Rembrandt.
The museum is free to enter, and you can explore the galleries on your own or take a guided tour. Throughout the year, the National Gallery hosts a variety of exhibitions, lectures, and other events, making it an excellent stop for art lovers visiting London.
London – In Autumn and Winter
From November to January, London adds seasonal activities to its free museums. Here's what you can plan for winter 2026-2027, according to Visit London and the organizers:
- Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park: November 19, 2026 to January 3, 2027, closed December 25
- Skate at Somerset House: November 11, 2026 to January 10, 2027, tickets from £11 to £28.50
- Buckingham Palace: guided tour of the East Wing from November 6, 2026 to January 31, 2027, Friday to Monday
- Shakespeare’s Globe: candlelit plays at the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse
- New Year’s Eve fireworks: December 31, ticketed only
- Sales: from Boxing Day, December 26, until mid-January
- Transport: no TfL Tube or bus service on December 25, reduced service on December 26
London – Organised excursions
If you are not keen on visiting London by yourself, you can book one of the many activities offered by GetYourGuide. Since you will be charged in a foreign currency, remember to use a no-foreign exchange fee credit card to save!
Bottom Line
For a flight to London on points, start by comparing Aeroplan (32,500 points one-way in economy on a partner airline), British Airways Avios on off-peak dates and Flying Blue Promo Rewards. Once there, a Marriott free night certificate or flexible travel points applied to an independent hotel help you cut the most expensive part of your stay. And since several major museums are free, most of your budget goes to transportation and accommodation.
To choose the card that will fund your trip, see our selection of the best travel credit cards. And to get our member-only offers, create your free member account.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Aeroplan points do you need for a Montreal–London flight?
On a partner airline, a one-way economy ticket costs 32,500 Aeroplan points for a trip of 4,000 miles or less, as of June 1, 2026. If your routing goes over 4,000 miles, for example with a connection east of London, it rises to 42,500 points. On Air Canada flights, pricing is dynamic, so always compare it with the cash fare.
How do you book a Lufthansa flight with Aeroplan points?
Book it with your Aeroplan account on Air Canada's website, not through Miles & More. Air Canada and Lufthansa are both members of Star Alliance, and the alliance spells it out: to use your points on a member airline's flight, you go through your own frequent flyer program, subject to availability. A Miles & More account therefore gives you no access to your Aeroplan points. In the Aeroplan booking tool, Lufthansa flights follow the partner chart described above.
How many Avios do you need to fly to London from Canada?
On British Airways, a long-haul reward flight starts at 55,000 Avios plus a fixed cash amount for taxes and carrier charges. Off-peak dates require fewer Avios than peak dates, and you can lower the number of Avios by paying more cash. Check the exact price for your dates in the British Airways booking tool.
Which London airport should you choose to pay less?
Search with the code LON, which covers all London airports, rather than Heathrow alone. You'll then see flights to Gatwick, such as Air Transat's, which are often cheaper. Then compare the cost of getting downtown, which varies from one airport to another.
Do you need a travel authorisation to visit London?
Yes. With a Canadian passport, you must get an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before you leave for the United Kingdom. It costs £20 and covers tourist stays of up to 6 months. Apply on the official gov.uk site a few days before you leave, and avoid third-party sites that charge more.
What are Flying Blue Promo Rewards?
They are reward tickets offered with up to 25% off on selected routes. Flying Blue releases a new selection on the first day of each month, subject to availability. From Montreal, Europe has been offered from 18,750 Miles one-way in economy.
Can you use a Marriott free night certificate in London?
Yes, the annual certificate from the Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card can be used in London, up to its points value. Central London hotels often exceed that limit, which narrows your choice for your dates. Book early and compare with the cash price to judge the value you get.
Which museums are free in London?
The British Museum, the National Gallery and Tate Modern offer free entry to their permanent collections. The British Library's Treasures Gallery is free as well. At the British Museum, book a free timed ticket to skip the queue. Only some temporary exhibitions charge admission, so you can put your budget toward transportation and accommodation.
Do you need a no foreign transaction fee card to travel to London?
It is strongly recommended, since you pay in pounds sterling. Most Canadian cards add a foreign transaction fee of about 2.5% on every purchase in a foreign currency. A card with no foreign transaction fees saves you that cost on meals, activities and local transportation.
