Central London to Luton Airport Taxi and Private Transfer: Fares, Journey Time and Pickup
Everything for your central London to Luton Airport transfer in one place: distance and journey time, fares per vehicle, the right pickup time and the return trip.
The journey
The distance is about 33 miles (53 km). In normal traffic the drive takes about 55 minutes; allow longer at rush hour, on Friday afternoons and on bank holiday weekends. The A41 or A5 north to the M1, then to Luton Airport.
About central London
We collect from hotels, homes and offices across central London: the West End, Mayfair, Marylebone, Bloomsbury, King’s Cross, Clerkenwell and the City. The driver heads north on the A1 or the M1, whichever is quicker on the day; leaving central London is the slowest part of the journey.
Car or train?
Thameslink trains run from St Pancras, Farringdon, City Thameslink and Blackfriars to Luton Airport Parkway, and the DART shuttle takes you from there to the terminal. With light luggage near one of those stations, the train is a good option. With suitcases, children or a flight before the first trains, a car from your door is simpler.
Fares by vehicle
- Economy Sedan (up to 4 passengers, 3 suitcases): from about £88
- First Class Sedan (4 passengers, 3 suitcases): about £123
- Standard Van (6 passengers, 4 suitcases): about £149
- First Class Van (6 passengers, 5 suitcases): about £238
- Minibus (up to 16 passengers, 10 suitcases): from about £264
Each fare covers the whole vehicle, however many seats you fill. Enter your date and address on the booking form to see your exact price before paying; traffic on the day does not change it.
Pickup from your door
From central London the 55-minute drive means a pickup around 3 hours before a short-haul flight is a safe choice: about 2 hours is left at the airport once you arrive. For long-haul, add another hour. You are collected from your home, hotel or office, help with bags is included, and child seats cost nothing extra. Luton has one terminal and the car drops you right outside it; the DART shuttle is only needed by passengers arriving by train.
Arriving back
For the return to central London, the pickup is timed to your actual landing at Luton, not the schedule. Your driver waits in the arrivals hall holding a name sign, with 60 minutes free after touchdown and parking included in the fare. Choose "Return" on the booking form to book both trips together and save on the second one.
More information
See our Luton Airport transfers page and the Luton Airport pickup guide. Related route: East London to Luton.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is it from central London to Luton Airport?
About 33 miles (53 km).
How long does the journey take?
About 55 minutes in normal traffic; longer at peak times.
How much is a taxi from central London to Luton Airport?
From about £88 in an Economy Sedan for up to 4 passengers, or about £130 in a Standard Van for up to 6. The price is per vehicle.
How early should I be collected?
For a short-haul flight, 3 hours before departure (the 55-minute drive plus time for check-in and security). Long-haul: one hour earlier.
Do you drop off at the terminal or at the Parkway station?
At the terminal drop-off area, so you do not need the DART shuttle.
Are child seats available?
Yes, at no extra cost. Tell us the children's ages when you book.
