Considering a trip to London soon? Here are our tips for the best ways to get around London.
If this is your first trip to London, we do not recommend that you rent a car or drive unless you are familiar with driving on the left-hand side of the road. London has an excellent public transportation system, making it easy for residents and visitors to explore the city and its many attractions.
Before we get into the list, here is a pro-tip. Download the CityMapper app prior to traveling. This app allows you to see all means of transportation in one place for all major cities around the world, rating the easiest routines and shows all price estimates. It also shows all current schedules for all public transportation.
Now, here are best ways to get around London:
London Underground (Tube):
The London Underground, commonly known as the Tube, is an extensive network of underground trains connecting various parts of the city. With multiple lines and stations, the Tube is a quick and efficient way to navigate London. This is how we got around 50% of our time while we were here. Honestly, it was so easy to use and for most stations, there were trains every 4 mins. Also, because London is a cashless city, you can quickly pay for your ride with just a tap from your credit card.
Buses:
London’s iconic red buses cover the entire city, providing an extensive and affordable bus network. Bus routes are well-connected, offering an opportunity to see the city from the comfort of a double-decker bus. This is the cheapest means of getting around. However, they tend to make a lot of stops so it could take longer to get to your destination.
River Bus Services:
River bus services operate along the Thames River, offering a scenic and unique way to travel between key locations. This is a great option for those wanting to enjoy London’s landmarks from the water.
Walking:
One of the wonderful things about London is that many of its attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially in central areas. It’s so easy to walk from Westminster Abbey and Big Ben to Buckingham Palace. Walking allows you to explore neighborhoods at a leisurely pace and discover hidden gems along the way. We found most of the restaurants and pubs we tried this way. London has some hilly areas, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes. Also, don’t forget to carry a jacket with you as it tends to be cool all year around.
Black Cabs:
Most people can’t go to London and not ride in one of their iconic black cabs. These cabs are readily available throughout the city, offering a convenient and comfortable mode of transport, especially for those wanting door-to-door service. Black cabs tend to be pricey, so plan your trips carefully.
Ride-Sharing Apps:
Services like Uber operate in London, providing an alternative to traditional taxis. This is more cost effective than a Black Cab. However, make sure to check the traffic beforehand to make sure that you arrive at your destination on time.
National Rail Services:
London is well-connected to the rest of the UK and internationally through National Rail services. Major railway stations like King’s Cross and Paddington offer trains to various destinations. We rode Eurostar for our day trip to Paris. Our recommendation is to make sure that you get to the station early as it tends to get crowded.
With these diverse transportation options, navigating London is both accessible and efficient, ensuring that visitors can explore the beautiful city with ease.
Looking to go to London soon? Check out our ultimate London travel guide for first-time travelers.
