Public transport
The London Underground (or ‘Tube’ as it’s more affectionately known) is a marvel of urban planning, connecting 270 stations in all directions of the city. You can get to most destinations using it, with some potential connections on the Overground and Trams. Different lines are helpfully laid out in specific colours, which you can check on thismap.
The City of London operates all bus lines, making it easy to connect to parts of town far from a Tube station. The best part is you can use multiple buses for only £1.50 the whole journey, given that you hop off and on each within a one-hour time frame.
Please note that all of London’s public transport options are cashless. You can tap in and out with a payment card or phone, or purchase anOyster cardto top up as you go (these can be bought online or at each station, with a £5 minimum).
An incredibly useful app to have downloaded isCitymapper. This is one of the best ways to plan your route, sorting options according to duration, price and mode of transport. It will make navigating the Tube a breeze and keep you updated with live arrival times.
Taxis
London’s iconic black cabs have been getting passengers from A to B since 1958, and while the rise of Uber and otherride-sharing appshave caused some controversy, they still form a vital mode of transport in the city.
A lit sign means a cab is free. To wave it down, extend your hand towards the road (away from parked cars and bus stops). Fees are decided on a meter, at surprisingly competitive rates. Payment in cash or card. Here is a list ofdedicated taxi ranks in London.
Fun fact: to qualify as a London cabbie you need to memorise the streets completely by heart - no Google Maps allowed!
