Welcome to London, England’s crown jewel that boasts more than two thousand years of rich history as the capital city. This ancient city has grown into a bustling metropolis with thriving markets for arts, commerce, fashion, finance, media, entertainment, tourism, and much more and is often touted as the ‘world cultural capital’.

If you are lucky enough to visit this diverse melting pot, you’ll have no shortage of options when it comes to navigating the city’s diverse neighborhoods.

Getting To London

The first step to getting AROUND London is to actually get TO London! Most of our visitors from abroad fly into the city, while visitors from nearby cities often travel by car or train.

London Airports

The immediate London area offers five airports, all within a one-hour train ride of the city.

London area airports include:

• Heathrow – 15-minute drive
• City Airport – 22-minute drive
• Luton – 24-minute drive
• Gatwick – 30-minute drive
• Southend – 53-minute drive

Travel From The Airport

The fastest, most efficient way to travel directly into the city from the local airports is via train. Options include the Tube, DLR, and mainline train.

Travelers looking for an alternative can take a rental car, taxi, or coach service into the city as well. However, these modes of transport will be considerably more expensive than hopping on a train.

We’ve got more specific info on getting around London via the train system below!

Driving In London

City slickers that enjoy the thrill of cruising along bustling urban avenues will feel right at home in London. However, if you are unfamiliar with the European style of driving, there are a few things to note before you embark on your adventure. In case you are unaware, folks in the UK drive on the left side of the road, which can be quite the adjustment for some. Before you hit the highway, make sure you are 100% acclimated to the lane change and traffic flows. As with most countries, all passengers are required to wear seat belts and car seats are mandatory for children. Car rental services are plentiful and familiar brands, like Enterprise, are present throughout the city. Also, when planning your trip, be mindful of London’s “congestion charge” (more info below).

London Trains

Like many urban cities, London provides a vast network of public transportation, including an extensive train network. Travelers will find ample opportunity to take advantage of this convenient and affordable method of transport.

Underground

“The Tube”, as the locals call it, refers to London’s underground rail network. Much like subways in America, The Tube is a fast and affordable way to get around London. The network is comprised of nine zones and 11 individual tube lines. Tube fares will vary depending on the time of day, how far you ride, and how you pay. Using an ‘oyster’ card is the cheapest option for travelers. The Tube service usually runs from 5 am – 12 am, with dedicated Night Tube services available in limited areas on weekends. You can buy an Oyster Card here and view a London Tube map here.

DLR

London’s “Docklands Light Railway” – or “DLR” – is actually a sleek, driverless train line that is connected to the city’s expansive Tube network. The DLR is offered in limited areas throughout the city and function like other Tube systems, just without the driver! The DLR is available from the London City Airport and in many neighborhoods throughout Eastern London. The DLR also offers specific hours: 5:30 am – 12:30 am Monday – Saturday and 7:00 am – 11:30 pm on Sundays. Train fares are the same as other Tube systems and only cashless payments are accepted (Oyster Card, contactless payment cards).

Overground

Though the London Tube and DLR network are expansive and perfect for neighborhood hopping, sometimes cross-town travel is necessary. When it comes to long treks through the city or even trips to neighboring cities, the overground train system is the way to go. Transport for London (TfL) currently operates train services on six unique routes through London. Additionally, there are seven local train operators that service the immediate London area, meaning you’ll find plenty of options for exploring the city. Like The Tube and DLR system, travelers may pay for their ride via an Oyster Card or contactless payment card, which can be purchased in advance or during your stay in the city.

Tip – It’s ~50% cheaper to use an Oyster Card than paying with cash or card and there are various discounts available for students, children, and elderly travelers!

London Ride Services

In addition to the vast train network, the city also provides several ride services that make getting around London a breeze. From the famous black cabs to the well-known red buses, hopping on for a ride is fast and easy!

Buses

Have you dreamed of riding on an iconic double-decker bus? This dream can easily become a reality during your visit to London. Getting around London by bus is fast, cheap, and easy, making it a popular option for visitors and locals alike. A single London bus fare costs under $2.00, though you must pay via Oyster Card or contactless payment (cash is not accepted). Travelers can also purchase affordable bus passes for multi-day use. And, unlike most of The Tube, the night buses run all evening into the morning.

Bus Tours

Take in the city like a true tourist with a guided bus tour. These popular ‘hop on-hop off’ tours allow visitors to enjoy the sights and sounds of the city while getting off at the stops of their choice throughout the day. Many of the tour routes offer well over 50 stops, so you’ll have plenty of options on spots to explore during your tour.

Taxis & Ride Shares

Taxis are a tried and true way to get around cities around the world and London is no exception. From the famous black cabs, which represent London’s official cab service, to local “minicabs”, a slightly more affordable alternative, you’ll be just a few steps away from hailing your way across town at most major intersections.

For black cabs, the yellow “taxi” sign indicated whether the vehicle is available for hire. Black cabs are metered at a minimum charge of ~$3.10. Pricing for minicabs varies, so be sure to inquire prior to your ride. Also, be sure that your minicab is fully licensed; unbooked minicabs are illegal and potentially unsafe!

If you’re a fan of popular rideshare services like Uber and Lyft – you’re in luck! Both of these companies have a strong presence in London.

Biking In London

If you’re seeking a fun and energetic way to get in some miles, consider enjoying a scenic bike ride around the city! Like other cities, London is easy to navigate by bike. Visitors are welcome to BYOB (bike, though biking and beer could be a fun combo) or there are plenty of options when it comes to daily or extended bike rentals. Santander is the most prominent rental option, where travelers can rent a bike at a docking station for as little as $2.50 a day! And, if you need a break, remember that you can take a folding bike onto The Tube or other train systems!

For a more structured tour of London, check out these scenic bike routes.

Of, if you want someone else to do the hard work – try a pedicab!

Walking In London

Despite any initial intimidation about navigating the city, London is actually quite walkable, especially in the large tourism hubs, which include favorites like The London Eye, Big Ben, and Trafalgar Square. Visitors can even enjoy a self-guided walking tour, with routes including the ‘London Loop’, ‘Thames Path’, and ‘Capital Ring Walk’ – to name a few.

Important Travel Info

Here are a few definitions to know about getting around London:

Oyster Cards are electronic smart cards that can be pre-loaded with money and used to pay for public transportation throughout London. Using Oyster Cards is the most efficient and affordable way to pay for public transportation. Cards may be purchased in advance prior to travel or area easily acquired at various shops throughout the city.

Contactless Payment Cards are a secure way for travelers to purchase products or services via debit, credit, or smart cards (aka chip cards) via RFID technology. This is essentially just a fancy way of saying a debit or credit card. “Cardless” payments, like Apple Pay, Android Pay, and Google Wallet also fall into this category.

London’s Congestion Charge is a fee that applies to drivers in the busiest parts of the city during peak travel hours. The specific charge varies from $12.50 – $16.75 depending on the time of day and how you pay. Fees are cheaper if they are paid in advance, and drivers are free to pay online, via an automatic credit card payment, or even via text. The congestion charge applies between 7:00 am – 6:00 pm, Monday through Friday. The congestion charge does not apply on weekends and bank holidays.

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