Top 11 London public transport options you can try for a smooth journey
Getting around London can feel overwhelming at first, especially when you’re a tourist or a new resident. The moment you step out into the bustling streets, your mind goes, “How on earth do I get where I need to go?”
Well, no need to worry because Transport for London (TfL) has plenty of options to get you moving. From the iconic Tube and double-decker buses to riverboats and even cable cars, you’ll never run out of ways to travel.
Even better, TfL’s online journey planner and mobile app give you instant access to the best routes, real-time updates, and fare details—all in a few taps! Now, let’s break down the best ways to navigate London public transport.
1. London Underground (The Tube)
Media credit: transportforlondon
Website: https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/tube/
Contact details: 0343 222 1234
Operating hours: Monday to Saturday – 5 AM-12 AM
Payment:
- Oyster card
- Contactless
- Paper tickets
- Mobile payment (Apple Pay/Google Pay)
The London Underground, or the Tube, is London’s most famous mode of transport, covering 11 lines and 270 stations. It’s also the fastest way to travel across the city, especially when you need to avoid traffic on the busy streets.
Navigating the system might seem tricky at first, but once you familiarize yourself with the color-coded lines and interchange stations, it becomes second nature. Plus, stations are well-marked, and TfL’s journey planner can help you find the quickest route.
Moreover, 92 Tube stations currently have step-free access, making journeys easier for wheelchair users, travelers with heavy luggage, and parents with strollers. For more details, you can visit TfL’s accessibility map on their website.
Pro tip:
Avoid rush hours (7:30 AM to 9:30 AM and 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM) if you can because they can make the experience crowded and stressful. Major stations like Oxford Circus, Bank, and King’s Cross are particularly hectic.
Moreover, fares vary by zone. You can find the exact prices on TfL’s website or use their journey planner to find out the cost of your trip.
2. London Overground
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Website: https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/london-overground/
Contact details: 0343 222 1234
Operating hours: (varies by line)
Daytime hours
- Thursday and Friday – 6 AM – 12:01 AM
- Saturday – 5:30 AM – 12:01 AM
- Sunday – 7:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Nighttime hours
- Friday and Saturday – 24 hours (New Cross Gate-Highbury & Islington)
The London Overground is a network complementing the Underground, especially for areas outside central London. With six lines circling the city, it connects Camden, Hackney, and Richmond.
It’s also more accessible than the Underground with lift access in many stations. Also, the Overground is a great summer travel option—it’s often less crowded, offers spacious seating, and is fully air-conditioned.
Pro tip:
The London Overground accepts the same payment methods as the Tube. These include contactless cards, Oyster cards, and mobile payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay.
3. Docklands Light Railway (DLR)
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Website: https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/dlr/
Contact details: 0343 222 1234
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 5:30 AM – 12:30 AM
- Sundays and public holidays – 7 AM – 11:30 PM
The Docklands Light Railway (DLR) is a driverless train network serving East and Southeast London, including London City Airport. Among its popular routes are scenic journeys through Canary Wharf and convenient connections to ExCeL London.
Since there’s no driver, you can sit at the front for a fun, clear view of the tracks! The DLR is also ideal for business travelers and tourists alike, especially for quick access to Greenwich and its historic attractions.
Pro tip:
Always tap your Oyster card, contactless card, or mobile payment device on the yellow reader at the start and end of your journey. Since the DLR doesn’t have ticket barriers at most stations, failing to do so can result in a penalty fare or an incomplete journey charge.
4. London Buses
Media credit: transportforlondon
Website: https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/buses/
Contact details: 0343 222 1234
Operating hours: 24/7
If you want a budget-friendly and scenic way to explore the city with extensive routes, hop on London’s iconic red buses. Unlike the Tube, buses operate 24/7, with night buses running even when the train stations close.
With a flat fare system, you pay the same regardless of distance—but cash payments are not accepted. Instead, use an Oyster card, contactless payment, or a Travelcard.
Pro tip:
Use the Hopper Fare, where you can make unlimited bus and tram transfers within an hour for the price of one trip. Using your Oyster card or contactless payment, simply tap in for each ride and you won’t be charged extra.
5. Uber Boat by Thames Clippers
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Website: https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/river/
Contact details: 0343 222 1234
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 5:30 AM – 10:32 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 8:10 AM – 10:40 PM
The Uber Boat by Thames Clippers offers an alternative scenic route along the Thames. These riverboats run from Putney to Woolwich, stopping at key locations like Westminster, Embankment, and Greenwich.
They’re a fantastic option for commuters and tourists, providing a more relaxed experience compared to the crowded Tube. However, the cost is slightly higher than other transport options, with Oyster cards and contactless payment accepted.
Pro tip:
The Thames Clippers are ideal for leisurely commutes or sightseeing. Consider traveling after 7 PM for stunning night views of London’s illuminated skyline.
6. Trams
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Website: https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/trams/
Contact details: 0343 222 1234
Operating hours: Everyday – 5:30 AM to 12 AM
Trams operate exclusively in South London, connecting Wimbledon to Croydon. With dedicated tram lanes to avoid congestion, they provide a smooth, quiet, and traffic-free mode of transport for commuters and visitors alike.
One of the biggest conveniences of using trams is that they follow the same payment system as buses and the Tube. You can simply tap in with an Oyster card or use a mobile payment method—no need for a separate ticket.
Pro tip:
Just like buses, you’ll pay a flat rate for each tram journey, regardless of distance. Plus, the Hopper Fare applies, allowing unlimited transfers within an hour at no extra cost.
7. IFS Cloud Cable Car (Emirates Cable Car)
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Website: https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/london-cable-car/
Address:
- Greenwich Peninsula Terminal – Edmund Halley Way, London
- Royal Docks Terminal – 27 Western Gateway, London
Contact details: 0343 222 1234
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 7 AM – 9 PM
- Friday – 7 AM – 11 PM
- Saturday – 8 AM – 11 PM
- Sunday and bank holidays – 9 AM – 9 PM
The IFS Cloud Cable Car, formerly the Emirates Cable Car, connects Greenwich Peninsula and the Royal Docks. This unique transport option gives you a panoramic view of the Thames, Canary Wharf, and even the distant London skyline.
The journey lasts about 10 minutes during the day and extends to 12 to 13 minutes in the evening for a more relaxed experience. Whether you’re a tourist looking for a fun activity or a local wanting a new perspective on London, the cable car offers a memorable ride.
Pro tip:
The IFS Cloud Cable Car offers a one-of-a-kind sightseeing experience. You can also combine your trip with a visit to nearby attractions like the Emirates Aviation Experience, ExCeL London, or the O2 Arena for dining, shopping, and entertainment.
Moreover, tickets are cheaper after 7:00 PM, and the night views are spectacular. If you’re visiting as a group, check for discounts or multi-ride passes.
8. London’s Rail Services
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Website: https://www.nationalrail.co.uk/
Contact details: [email protected]
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 4:30 AM – 1 AM
- Saturday to Sunday – 6 AM – 12 AM
London’s rail network provides direct services from central London to the suburbs and beyond. Many routes extend to major airports, including Gatwick and Heathrow, offering a convenient way to reach your destination without the hassle of traffic.
While some rail services accept Oyster cards and contactless payments, others require a paper ticket or a digital e-ticket. Rail services within London’s fare zones—including Thameslink, Southern, and South Western Railway—allow Oyster and contactless payments.
Pro tip:
If your journey is within London’s fare zones, using contactless or an Oyster card is often the most cost-effective option. For longer trips beyond London, consider a Railcard to get up to ⅓ off fares, especially for frequent travelers, students, or groups.
9. London Taxis and Ride-hailing services
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Website: https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/taxis-and-minicabs/
Contact details: 0343 222 4000
Operating hours: 24/7
London’s black cabs are a reliable way to get around, especially if you need a professional, fully licensed driver who knows the streets like the back of their hand. These taxis can be hailed on the street, at taxi ranks, or booked in advance via apps like Gett.
They are metered, and fares can add up quickly, particularly during peak hours (7:30 AM to 9:30 AM and 4:30 PM to 7:30 PM on weekdays) and longer journeys. However, they are one of the only transport options that allow cash payments.
For a budget-friendly alternative, ride-hailing apps like Uber, Bolt, Free Now, and Ola let you book a car at a fixed price upfront. But prices vary with demand, so expect surge pricing during busy periods, such as weekend nights (9:00 PM to 3:00 AM) and special events.
Pro tip:
Black cabs are ideal for short trips since they can be hailed on the street and have dedicated bus lane access, helping you avoid traffic. When hailing a black cab, check that the yellow taxi light is on, indicating availability.
10. Biking
Media credit: transportforlondon
Website: https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/cycling/
Contact details: 0343 222 1234
Operating hours: 24/7
If you prefer short, eco-friendly trips, Santander Cycles (often called “Boris Bikes”) are a great option. This public bike-sharing scheme allows you to rent a bike from one of over 800 docking stations across the city and return it to any other station when you’re done.
Renting a Santander Cycle is simple: just use a bank card or the official Santander Cycles app to hire a bike. The cost is £1.65 for unlimited 30-minute rides within 24 hours, meaning you can dock and rehire bikes as many times as you like without paying extra.
London also has a growing number of e-bike hire schemes, including Lime, HumanForest, and Dott, which offer dockless e-bikes that can be unlocked via a mobile app. These are perfect for longer rides or if you want an easier cycling experience, but they tend to be more expensive.
Pro tip:
London’s public hire cycles, like Santander Cycles, are in high demand during rush hours (7:30 AM to 9:30 AM and 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM). So, plan your trip outside these peak times to avoid crowds and ensure easy access to bikes and docking points.
11. Walking
Media credit: footwayslondon
Website: https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/walking/
Contact details: [email protected]
Operating hours: 24/7
One of the best (and often overlooked) ways to explore London is simply by walking. Many of the city’s most famous landmarks, attractions, and neighborhoods are surprisingly close to one another, making it easy to stroll from one place to the next without needing transportation.
Walking also helps you avoid traffic, save money, and experience the city like a local. London is highly pedestrian-friendly, with wide pavements as well as clear signposts and walking distance indicators on many streets to help you navigate easily.
Pro tip:
We recommend taking scenic walking routes to explore London’s landmarks. The following routes let you soak in the city’s history, architecture, and vibrant atmosphere at your own pace:
Try a picturesque route along the Thames from Westminster to Tower Bridge. Here, you’ll pass landmarks like Big Ben, the London Eye, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Shakespeare’s Globe. Another great walk is from Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace. You can stroll down The Mall, a grand tree-lined avenue leading straight to the palace gates.