If you’re connecting between Stansted Airport and London City Airport, you’re not alone. Thousands of travellers — especially business passengers and those using low-cost European airlines — make this cross-London airport transfer every week.
But let’s be honest: Stansted and London City aren’t close. You’ll be travelling across the north and east sides of London — so your transfer can take anywhere from 75 minutes to 2 hours, depending on transport choice, time of day, and traffic.
With smart planning, though, this journey can be simple and stress-free. In this guide, we’ll show you how — with top tips and practical advice for making your Stansted to London City Airport transfer smooth and on time.
Why This Journey Needs Planning
Unlike connections at airports like Heathrow or Gatwick, Stansted and London City are not linked by any direct shuttle or express train.
You’ll be relying on a combination of taxi, rail, DLR (Docklands Light Railway), coach or a private transfer.
That’s why advance planning matters — especially if:
✅ You have a tight connection time
✅ You’re travelling with luggage
✅ You’re unfamiliar with London transport
✅ You’re arriving late at night or early morning
Option 1: Book a Private Taxi or Transfer
For most travellers — especially business passengers or those with tight itineraries — a pre-booked Stansted to London City Airport taxi is the most convenient choice.
Benefits:
- Door-to-door service
- No hauling luggage on escalators or platforms
- No need to navigate Tube/DLR changes
- Fixed price — no Uber surge pricing or black cab surprises
- Meet & Greet — your driver will wait for you at arrivals
- Reliable even if your flight is delayed
Estimated Time: 1 hr 15 mins to 1 hr 45 mins (depending on traffic)
Cost: From £90 to £130 (depends on vehicle size & time of day)
Best For: Business travellers, families, tourists with large luggage, groups
Pro Tip: If you’re after a cheap taxi in London UK, you’ll get better prices by booking online in advance — rather than grabbing a black cab at Stansted.
Option 2: Train + DLR (Public Transport)
If you’re travelling light and don’t mind changes, public transport can save you some money.
Typical route:
- Stansted Express — to London Liverpool Street (~50 mins)
- DLR — from Bank or Stratford to London City Airport (~30 mins)
- Walking transfers between platforms/stations (~10-15 mins depending on route)
Estimated Total Time: 1 hr 30 mins to 1 hr 45 mins
Cost: ~£30–£35 per person
Pros:
- Cheaper than a private car
- Good for solo travellers or backpackers
- Frequent departures (Stansted Express runs every 15 minutes)
Cons:
- Multiple changes — not ideal with heavy bags
- Can be crowded during peak times
- Platform gaps on DLR can be awkward with big cases
- No direct service — you need to navigate some stations
Option 3: Coach + DLR
For budget-conscious travellers, you can also combine a National Express coach with the DLR.
Typical route:
- Coach — Stansted to Stratford Bus Station (~1 hr 20 mins)
- DLR — Stratford to London City Airport (~25 mins)
Estimated Total Time: 1 hr 45 mins to 2 hours
Cost: from ~£15–£20
Pros:
- Cheapest option
- Ideal for students or long-stay tourists
- Coaches have plenty of luggage space
Cons:
- Slower than train or taxi
- Heavily affected by road traffic
- Not ideal if you’re on a tight connection
- You may still need to walk between bus and rail terminals
Top Tips for a Smooth Journey
1. Allow Plenty of Time
London traffic and transport can be unpredictable — leave at least 3 to 4 hours between your scheduled arrival at Stansted and departure from London City Airport.
If you’re connecting to an international flight, more time is safer — better an early coffee than a missed check-in!
2. Avoid Rush Hour
Traffic is heavier:
- Weekday mornings: 7:30 AM – 10:00 AM
- Evenings: 4:30 PM – 7:00 PM
- Friday afternoons and weekends can also be busy in tourist hotspots
Booking a cheap airport taxi in the UK helps here — your driver will know the best routes to avoid delays.
3. Book Transfers in Advance
✅ For taxis, online pre-booking guarantees fixed rates and availability
✅ For trains or coaches, book tickets ahead — cheaper and ensures you get a seat during busy times
✅ For business travellers, private transfer is strongly recommended — reliable, door-to-door, no unexpected delays
4. Use Travel Apps
- Citymapper — best for live London public transport
- TfL Go — official app for Tube, DLR, and bus updates
- Google Maps — good multi-modal trip planner
- FlightRadar24 — track your incoming flight to adjust transfer timing
5. Pack Smart
If you’re taking public transport:
- Use a small, rolling suitcase
- Wear comfortable shoes — you may need to walk between platforms
- Be ready for escalators, stairs, and gaps at stations
- If you have bulky luggage, taxi or private car is much more comfortable
Final Thoughts
Transferring between Stansted and London City Airport can be smooth and stress-free — if you plan ahead.
In short:
✅ Taxi or private car — most flexible & reliable
✅ Train + DLR — affordable, faster than coach
✅ Coach + DLR — budget option, but slower
✅ Allow time — better to relax than miss a connection!
Now that you know the options and key tips, you’re ready for an easy airport transfer across London — no matter which route you choose.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the fastest way to get from Stansted to London City Airport?
A: A pre-booked taxi or private car is the fastest — typically 1 hr 15 mins off-peak. It’s also the most convenient if you have luggage or a tight connection.
Q2: How much does a taxi from Stansted to London City Airport cost?
A: Taxi fares range from £90 to £130, depending on vehicle size and time of day. Booking in advance helps secure a cheap taxi in London UK with fixed pricing.
Q3: Is there a direct train between Stansted and London City Airport?
A: No — there’s no direct train. The quickest public transport route is Stansted Express to Liverpool Street, followed by DLR to London City Airport.
Q4: How long does it take to get between Stansted and London City Airport?
A: Depending on your choice of transport:
- Taxi: 1 hr 15 mins to 1 hr 45 mins
- Train + DLR: 1 hr 30 mins to 1 hr 45 mins
- Coach + DLR: up to 2 hours
Q5: Should I pre-book a taxi for this journey?
A: Absolutely. Booking a Stansted to London City Airport taxi in advance gives you the best rates, priority service, and peace of mind — especially if your incoming flight is delayed.
Q6: Is it safe to transfer late at night?
A: Yes, but after 10 PM or early mornings, public transport options are limited. In these cases, a pre-booked taxi is safest and easiest — ensuring you don’t get stuck waiting for a train or bus.
