Every year a huge number of New Zealanders brave the 18,000km journey to the UK, and especially to the historic capital, London. For many, it's to see the home country or visit relatives. Some go to catch a glimpse of the Queen and the royals outside Buckingham Palace, while others prefer to spend their money in one of the world's shopping capitals - and nothing is more exciting than finding a bargain at one of London's many colourful markets.

For the fashion lover: Portobello Road Markets

A favourite for Londoners and tourists alike, the Portobello Road Markets weave from Notting Hill to Ladbroke Grove, with stalls full of silverware and jewellery, and vast displays of vintage clothes. You may even bump into the likes of singer Kylie Minogue or actress Keira Knightley while browsing the racks of excellent winter coats, boots and handbags.

Along the way are fresh fruit and vegie stalls as well as vendors selling olives, cheeses and pastries. The market is ever-expanding, now spreading into Golborne Road with a vast array of bric-a-brac to rummage through.

On the tube The closest stop is Ladbroke Grove station.

For more www.portobelloroad.co.uk.

Insider tip Visit on Friday to avoid the weekend crowds.

For the antique lover: Alfies Antique Market

If you're looking for a one-off piece, be it an antique brooch or lace tablecloth, then the multi-storeyed Alfies Antique Market is the place to head to. While it might take a bit of rummaging, it's worth it for the treasure on offer. The best stall for browsing is The Girl Can't Help It, which specialises in couture from the 1940s and 1950s for the boudoir and the beach.

Outside Alfies is Church Street Market, which claims to be London's oldest and features a mish-mash of herbs, spices and fresh fish, as well as stalls of socks and T-shirts.

On the tube Marylebone and Edgware Road stations are close by.

For more www.alfiesantiques.com.

Insider tip Check out the market's Rooftop Restaurant for a bite to eat.

For the food lover: Borough Market

If you haven't yet visited this lively paradise for foodies, it's likely you've seen it on TV during one of Jamie Oliver's frequent visits. The cooking show Market Kitchen, hosted by Tom Parker Bowles - son of Camilla - is also filmed in the historic setting.

This market is a favourite for gourmands hunting the best cut of pork, the stinkiest of cheeses and the most delicious pastries. For the visitor, it offers an insight into a city where some of the world's best chefs reside.

For a meal, join the line at Hobbs Pie and Mash on Bedale Street. Many stalls offer tasty samples, too.

On the tube London Bridge station is an easy walk away.

For more www.boroughmarket.org.uk.

Insider tip Saturday is the best day of the week to grab a bargain.

For a lazy Sunday: Old Spitalfields Market

This East London favourite offers an array of stalls selling one-off designs, leather handbags, CDs and craft jewellery. The market has been around since 1638 but in recent years, as the area has become more trendy and gentrified, Spitalfields has become increasingly popular with tourists.

The stalls change every day, from records and books on Wednesdays to antiques on Thursdays, but Sunday is the day when most of the stalls really come alive, along with the crowds. Make a day of it and visit one of the many excellent restaurants in the massive indoor market space.

On the tube Liverpool Street station is only a short walk away.

For more www.visitspitalfields.com.

Insider tip Try one of the great old-city pubs in this area for sausages and mash.

For a bit of everything: Camden Market

The huge and colourful Camden Market attracts an estimated 100,000 visitors every weekend. It's a visual spectacle and a shopper's paradise.

Walk up Camden High Street where stalls of punk rock jackets and gothic platform boots make way for vintage jewellery and cafe culture. The Stables Market offers furniture and second-hand clothing. At Camden Lock and Camden Canal Markets you'll find original designers in beautiful boutiques and workshops.

On the tube The markets are right outside Camden Town station.

For more www.camdenlock.net, www.stablesmarket.com, www.camdenlockmarket.com.

Insider tip Take a relaxing ride along the canal through central London.
Visit www.londonwaterbus.co.uk.

Getting around London

Buy a weekly or monthly Oyster card for travelling - it's the best way to utilise London's public transport. An Oyster card is the easiest way to pay for single journeys on the bus, tube, Docklands Light Railway (DLR), tram, London rail and participating National Rail services.

Enjoy a day out in London with fun and informative walking trails. Download a guide and prepare to discover a different side to London. Take the Camden and Islington trail for culture, canals and fine art - check out www.visitlondon.com.

You can gain half-price entry to many West End shows by visiting the TKTS booth in either Leicester Square or Canary Wharf DLR station. Tickets sell out fast though, so arrive early.

The world's biggest rock bands can often be seen blasting out their latest tunes for free at the HMV music store and Zavvi music store, both on Oxford Street. The vast array of markets of London are must-visit attractions, ideal for everything from buying furniture and clothing, to dining and people watching.

London for less

A stay in a serviced apartment can cost you less than a week in a hotel in London, and travellers are increasingly choosing this type of accommodation. What's more, it feels like your own home in the swinging capital and allows you to pick up fresh produce from the markets and cook it in your own modern kitchen. There are loads of apartments available to suit most budgets.

Phoenix House in Sloane Square is ideal for couples and is a real treat for world travellers - it comes supplied with a semi-stocked kitchen, ultra-modern furnishings, two TVs and a gym. The luxurious Cheval House in Knightsbridge is perfect for families.

Visit www.chevalgroup.com or www.gumtree.com.