Advertisement

Transport in London

London’s transport scene can look overwhelming at first, but once you get the hang of it, it's actually quite straightforward. The Tube’s the backbone,fast and frequent,though it can get packed in rush hour, especially around spots like King's Cross or Oxford Circus. Buses give you a slower but often more scenic route; try bouncing between neighborhoods like Shoreditch and Camden without the Tube crush.

Private drivers and airport transfers are a lifesaver after a long flight or if you have heavy bags, especially from Heathrow or Gatwick. I usually book a driver beforehand, so I’m not scrambling for taxis or waiting ages for a bus, especially if I arrive late. And don’t overlook the riverboats on the Thames , they’re a charming way to get around and avoid tricky traffic jams around Westminster.

Pro tip: Grab an Oyster card or use contactless payment for the Tube and buses,it saves heaps compared to buying single tickets. Also, avoid the Tube between 8 and 9 am if you hate sardine-style commutes. It’s London; sometimes walking a couple of stops or jumping on a bus is actually quicker and way nicer.
🌍 Part of the My Guide Network 180+ destinations worldwide
Search by Map

Not quite what you’re looking for yet?

Use filters to narrow things down or explore other categories.

Refine filters

Book Top Experiences and Tours in London:

If you're booking your trip to London last minute, we have you covered. Below are some of the top tours and experiences.

View All Experiences

Local tips for getting around

If you're staying in London for a few days, grab an Oyster card right away,it beats buying single tickets and works for nearly all public transport. Avoid rush hour on the Tube if you can, especially between 8 and 9 am and 5 to 6:30 pm, or you’ll feel like a sardine squeezed into a metal tube. Buses might take longer but give you a chance to actually see the city, and routes like the 24 or 11 run past iconic spots from Trafalgar Square to St Paul’s Cathedral.

Also, if you want to avoid the Tube altogether, try using the Thames Clippers riverboats. They’re surprisingly reliable and a peaceful alternative to the crowded Tube during the summer evenings. And if you’re heading to a comfy dinner in Notting Hill or a night out in Soho, Uber can be cheaper than a taxi late at night.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions about getting around London? Here’s some local insight.

Usually, yes. The Tube covers most of central London quickly, but if you’re traveling short distances or during rush hour, a bus or walking sometimes beats it. Plus, the Tube can be packed, especially mornings and evenings.

The Heathrow Express train is fast and comfy, getting you to Paddington in around 15 minutes. But if you’ve got a lot of luggage or arrive late, a pre-booked private transfer can be much more relaxed.

They can be, especially in heavy traffic or late at night. Black cabs are iconic but sometimes pricey. Often, rideshares like Uber can save a bit, though you might have to wait longer during busy times.

Absolutely. Contactless debit or credit cards work on buses, the Tube, trams, and even some riverboats , just make sure to tap in and out where needed to avoid extra charges.

Yes, if you’re confident with traffic. Santander Bikes are everywhere for short trips, and there are more cycle lanes now than when I first moved here. Just avoid main roads during peak hours unless you’re comfortable with heavy traffic.

The Night Tube runs on some lines on Fridays and Saturdays, which is super handy if you’re out late. Otherwise, night buses cover most routes, but they’re slower and less frequent. Grab a taxi or rideshare if you want to avoid waiting.

Explore Transport Categories

Shuttle Services (162 places) If you’re heading to London, shuttle services are a lifesaver, especially when you want to skip the hassle of public transport dragging through rush hour. These aren’t your ordinary taxis or rides Explore
Private Drivers (126 places) Getting around London with a private driver can save you a ton of hassle, especially if you’re not familiar with the city’s unpredictable traffic or the maze of one-way streets in places like Kens Explore
Airport Transfers (96 places) Landing at Heathrow, Gatwick, or even Stansted can feel a bit overwhelming if you don’t have a plan for getting into London. But booking an airport transfer in advance saves you from fumbling with t Explore
Bus Station (25 places) Explore
Metro Station (22 places) Explore
Group Transfers (40 places) If you’re traveling with a group in London, sorting out transport can get tricky fast. Public transport gets crowded, black cabs only fit so many, and juggling multiple rides wastes time. That’s w Explore
Train Station (13) • Ferry (4) • Car Rental (1) •

Top Things To Do in London

See All →

Top Things To Do in London

Click to See All

We Are Part of the My Guide Network!

My Guide London is part of the global My Guide Network of Online & Mobile travel guides. We are now in 180+ Destinations and Growing.

Nearby Destinations

My Guide Network Locations