Tips For Getting Around London

Here are some tips for getting around London, for anyone planning on visiting or moving to London. There are many ways you can get around and some are cheaper and quieter than other options.
Plan ahead for your trip to London with these tips.

Use an Oyster Card, Contactless Payment Card Or Apple Pay/Google Pay:
Oyster Cards, contactless payment cards or Apple Pay /Google Pay is the best way to pay for the Tube, buses, trams, and more.
Remember to tap in and out on the Tube and trains using the yellow touchpads, and only tap in on buses.

Download Navigation Apps:
There are a few free apps that will help you plan your journey around London. Citymapper, Moovit, TfL Go and Google Maps are the best apps to have to help plan your journey.

Avoid Rush Hour:
Weekday rush hours are from 7:30pm-9:30am and 5:00pm-7:00pm If possible, try to avoid using public transport at these times if you don’t want to be packed in. Rush hour in London really is very busy.

Stand on the right on escalators
When travelling in the underground, stand on the right on the escalators. This is so people can walk past you. There are signs telling you the same.

Walk on the left in the underground tunnels
There are many tunnels in the underground where you need to walk on the left. This is so people can walk past you who may be in a rush. There are signs telling you the same.
(No idea why it isn’t the right as per the escalators.)

Walk Instead:
If you can physically walk, it is often better to walk as many attractions are closer than they seem, and walking between them is often faster than taking the tube or bus. Plus you get to sightsee on the way!
Before my chronic illnesses left me disabled, I would just walk as many attractions are closer than it might look on the map. Use a travel planner app and select “walking” to get a estimate on how long it will take you to walk. You can visit some attractions on the way too!

Try Cycling or Scooters:
Santander Cycles are available all over the city. Electric scooters from Dott, Lime, and TIER are also great for short rides. Just remember to stay to designated lanes, and don’t ride on the paths!

Consider a Travel Card:
If you plan on staying for a few days to weeks and plan on using public transport frequently, a 7-Day Travelcard might be more cost-effective, especially in zones 1-2. You can get prices for a journey on the TFL website, to get an idea of how much your trips will cost. It is often better just to get a travelcard to save money.

Take Advantage of the River Bus and Thames Clipper:
For a scenic view, the Thames Clipper river bus offers a different and scenic way to see the city from the water. You can use an Oyster Card or contactless payment for these rides too! No need to buy a special ticket.

Be Aware of Black Cabs vs. Rideshare Apps:
Black cabs can be pricey. Rideshare apps like Uber and Bolt can be more affordable and convenient.

Check for Weekend Tube Closures:
Weekend maintenance can lead to Tube line closures. Check the TfL website or TfL Go app before making plans!

Use the Night Tube or Buses for Late Night Travel:
Some Tube lines operate 24 hours on Fridays and Saturdays, and night buses run throughout the week for budget-friendly late-night travel.

Try a Walking Tour or Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
Walking tours and Hop-On Hop-Off buses are a great way to learn about London’s history while exploring the city. There are also many free walking tours available too, such as Sandemans, Strawberry Tours, and many more. Plus if you like Harry Potter, there are Harry Potter themed free walking tours such as Wizards and Wonderful free walking tour.

Visit Markets on Weekdays For Less Crowds
Popular markets like Camden Market, Borough Market or Portobello Road Market are quieter on weekdays. You’ll have more space to walk around and shorter queues without the weekend crowds.

Safety Tips:
Always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas and on public transport as thieves do operate in the city.
Hold onto your phone tightly and keep your eyes open as thieves on bikes often grab phones from people who are staring at their phones while walking.

Use An eSIM For Data:
If you are vising London from overseas, to save money on roaming costs, get yourself an eSIM with data for the length of your trip. aloSIM is my favourite company to use as they have great prices, good service and great customer service! This way you can find any information you need wherever you are.
Plus you can save 15% of $3 ($ converted to whatever currency you pay in) off your first purchase with no minimum spend! Check out my review of aloSIM for more detailed information.

If you are heading to London, check out my blog post of free things to do in London for some free ways to have fun!