As an ultra-civilised collision of art and commerce, Mayfair's impeccable array of galleries and shops is hard to match. Bond Street leads the way, being the location of a tasteful selection of international fashion labels and classic old shops that attract a seriously wealthy clientele.

Set roughly between Oxford Street, Regent Street, Piccadilly and Park Lane - right in the heart of London, Mayfair's expansive and handsome architecture has always appealed to the well-heeled, who are drawn to the elegant squares, broad Georgian thoroughfares and beautiful parks. Nighttime belongs to London's young glitterati and media crowd, who can be spotted rubbing shoulders with junior royalty at venues such as Mahiki in Dover Street.

A number of Underground stations are found in Mayfair: Bond Street (Central and Jubilee), Green Park ( Piccadilly, Jubilee & Victoria Lines) Hyde Park ( Piccadilly Line). Excellent bus routes run along Park Lane and Piccadilly.