London, with its sprawling expanse and bustling streets, can seem daunting to navigate at first glance. However, the city boasts one of the most extensive and efficient public transport systems in the world, making it easy for residents and visitors alike to traverse its diverse neighborhoods and iconic landmarks. From the iconic red double-decker buses to the world-famous black cabs, here’s everything you need to know about getting around London, including using contactless and Oyster cards for Tube and bus travel.
Note: If you are looking for how to get from the Heathrow airport to London city center, read our dedicated article on that here.
London Underground (The Tube)
The London Underground, affectionately known as “The Tube,” is the backbone of the city’s public transport network. With 11 lines serving 270 stations across Greater London, the Tube provides quick and convenient access to almost every corner of the capital. Whether you’re commuting to work, exploring tourist attractions, or heading out for a night on the town, the Tube offers a fast and reliable way to travel around the city. Travelers can use contactless payment cards or Oyster cards to tap in and out at station barriers, providing a seamless and cashless way to travel. Important: Don’t forget to tap-in at the start, as well as tap-out at the end of your journey, as the fare charged depends on the distance travelled (or number of “zones” traversed). Some tube stations don’t have barrier gates, but you still need to tap-in or tap-out at the yellow card readers located at the stations.
The London Tube network also includes the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) that looks more like a toy-train and covers the scenic waterfront / docklands neighbourhoods, and the London Overground, which provides orbital rail services that connect outer London boroughs with the city center. The same contactless and Oyster payment methods work for these too.
Buses
In addition to the Underground, London boasts an extensive bus network that covers even more ground than the Tube. With over 8,000 buses operating on more than 700 routes, buses are a convenient option for traveling to destinations not served by the Underground, or to complement the Tube journeys. London’s iconic red double-decker buses offer a unique way to see the city, with panoramic views from the top deck and frequent service throughout the day and night. Passengers can also use contactless payment cards or Oyster cards to pay for bus journeys, making it easy to hop on and off buses throughout the city without the need for cash. Important: You only need to tap your card just once inside the bus – while boarding the bus from the front door – as a flat fare is charged irrespective of the distance.
Black Cabs
For those seeking a more traditional mode of transport, London’s iconic black cabs offer a convenient and reliable option for getting around the city. With their distinctive appearance and knowledgeable drivers, black cabs are a familiar sight on the streets of London and can be hailed from designated taxi ranks or flagged down on the street. Black cabs primarily accept cash, though an increasing number now also accept contactless payments. While slightly more expensive than other forms of transport, black cabs provide a door-to-door service and are particularly useful for traveling late at night or in areas not served by public transport.
App-Based Taxis & Private Hire Vehicles (PHVs)
In addition to black cabs, London is served by a multitude of app-based taxi companies and private hire vehicle (PHV) operators, such as Uber, Bolt, FREENOW, and Addison Lee. These app-based services offer a convenient alternative to traditional taxis, allowing passengers to book and pay for rides using their smartphones. Payment is typically processed electronically through the app, with options to pay using a linked debit or credit card. With competitive fares and a wide range of vehicle options, app-based taxis and PHVs are a popular choice for travelers looking for a more affordable and flexible way to get around London.
Thames Clippers (Uber Boat)
For a unique and scenic way to explore London, Thames Clippers, now called Uber Boat, offers river bus services along the River Thames. With stops at key locations including Westminster, Greenwich, and the O2 Arena, Thames Clippers provide a fast and convenient way to travel between central London and the city’s waterfront destinations. Passengers can use contactless payment cards or Oyster cards to pay for their journey, with spacious cabins and outdoor seating providing a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience. Be mindful though that the boat fares are higher than those for buses and Tubes.
Using Contactless and Oyster Cards
Contactless payment cards and Oyster cards offer a convenient and flexible way to pay for travel on London’s public transport network. Simply tap in and out at station barriers (or at the yellow card readers at stations without barriers) with your card to pay for your journey, with fares automatically calculated based on the distance traveled. Both contactless payment cards and Oyster cards offer daily and weekly fare caps, ensuring that passengers never pay more than the cost of a daily or weekly travelcard. With their ease of use and cost-saving benefits, contactless and Oyster cards are the preferred choice for many Londoners and visitors alike. Note that the contactless card is simply your existing credit card if it allows contactless payments (or used via Apple Pay); Oyster cards can be purchased from ticket machines and ticket counters at Tube stations. You also have the (generally much less preferred) option of purchasing single-use tickets from the ticket machines.
London offers a comprehensive and diverse range of public transport options, from the iconic Tube and red buses to black cabs and app-based taxis. With the convenience of contactless and Oyster card payments, travelers can enjoy seamless and hassle-free journeys across the city, without the need for cash. So, whether you’re commuting to work, exploring the city’s attractions, or enjoying a night out, London’s transport network has you covered. Hop aboard, sit back, and let London’s transport network take you on a journey through this vibrant and dynamic metropolis. Oh and, Mind The Gap! 🙂