Getting around London by public transport can seem difficult, much like using the subway in New York. Many people feel this way and end up walking too much or spending money on taxis. The reality is that, with a little guidance, it is actually very easy.
Use Google Maps, Citymapper or TfL Go (London’s official public transport app). Simply enter your destination and they will tell you which bus or Tube line to take, where to board and how long the journey will take. Here is how each option works and how much it costs. 👇
How to use the red buses 🚌
Taking the bus is one of the best ways to see London while getting around, especially if you sit upstairs on a double-decker.
- Check your route on the app. It will tell you the bus number and the letter of the bus stop you need (for example, “Stop RG”).
- Every bus stop has a letter (sometimes two) displayed on the pole inside a circle. Each letter corresponds to a specific direction, so just look for the correct letter and you don’t have to worry about getting on a bus going the opposite way.
- Board through the front door and tap your contactless card, phone or Oyster card on the reader. On buses, you only need to tap when boarding.
- When you want to get off, press the “Stop” button shortly before your stop. The screen on the bus will show you the next stop.
How much does the bus cost?
Each journey costs £1.75. There is a daily cap of £5.25, so if you make more than three bus journeys in one day, you won’t be charged any more.
How to use the Tube 🚇
The Tube is the fastest way to get across the city. At first, all the different lines can look intimidating, but the system is actually very logical.
- Check the app to see which line you need. Each line has a name and a colour (Central, Victoria, Piccadilly, etc.).
- To make sure you’re going in the right direction, look at the name of the last station on the line. For example, “Victoria line towards Brixton.” The signs on the platform will show you the line and the direction of the next train.
- Tap your card or phone on the reader when entering and again when leaving the station.
- On escalators, stand on the right and leave the left side clear for people who are in a hurry. 😉
How much does the Tube cost?
Fares depend on the zones you travel through. London is divided into 9 zones, and the further you travel from the centre, the more expensive it becomes. That’s why it’s worth considering the zones when choosing where to stay.
Most major tourist attractions are in Zones 1 and 2, where a journey costs £2.80. Just like on the bus, there is a daily cap of £8.90, so you won’t pay more even if you use the Tube several times in one day.
How to pay: frequently asked questions
Do I need an Oyster Card in London?
No. It can be useful in some situations, but it is not essential for getting around the city. Below, I’ll explain when it can be useful and what your alternatives are.
When is it worth buying an Oyster Card?
If you’re going to stay in London for more than a week. In that case, you can buy a weekly, monthly or even annual Travelcard, which can be loaded onto the card.
How can I pay for public transport without an Oyster Card?
With your debit or credit card, as long as it is contactless. It’s just as convenient and uses the same fares and daily caps as an Oyster.
What if I don’t have a separate card for every adult in my group?
Each payment method counts as a separate card. If your card is in your phone’s digital wallet, you can pay with your phone for one person and use the physical card for another person, even though they are linked to the same bank card. They count as two separate payment methods.
What you cannot do is have two people use the same payment method for the same journey. If you are still missing a payment method, the alternative is to buy an Oyster Card.
How much does an Oyster Card cost, and can I get the money back if I return it?
The card itself has a cost that is non-refundable: £10 for an Oyster. You also need to add credit to the card before using it.
You can, however, get back any unused credit. If you have £10 or less remaining, you can claim it back from the machines at Tube stations; if you have more, you can request a refund through the TfL website or at a visitor centre.
Can I pay cash on London buses?
No. London buses do not accept cash. You can only pay with a contactless card, phone or Oyster. That’s why it’s best to have your payment method ready before boarding.
What happens if I forget to tap out of the Tube?
You will be charged the maximum fare for that journey. On the Tube, you need to tap in and tap out. On buses, you only tap when boarding.
With this information, you can now choose the best way to pay for public transport and avoid unnecessary complications during your trip. Enjoy London to the fullest! 🇬🇧
So, what do you think about getting around London? 🚌
Do you have any questions or an experience you’d like to share? Leave us a comment and we’ll be happy to help.
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