Getting Around London: A Visitor’s Transport Guide
London's size can feel daunting, but its transport network makes it easy to navigate. Here are the essentials for visitors.
Pay with contactless
Tap any contactless card or phone on the Tube, buses, the Elizabeth line and most rail — no need to buy a separate ticket or Oyster card. Daily and weekly fare caps mean you never overpay.
The Tube & Elizabeth line
The Underground reaches almost everywhere; the newer Elizabeth line cuts fast across the city and out to Heathrow (about 15 minutes from Paddington). Buses are great for short, scenic hops.
From the airports
Heathrow: Elizabeth line or Heathrow Express to Paddington. Gatwick: Gatwick Express to Victoria. Both are quick and frequent.
Choose a well-connected base
The single biggest time-saver is staying somewhere central on a good line. Our neighbourhood guides flag transport for each area — Bayswater & Paddington (Elizabeth line), Battersea & Nine Elms (Northern line), Marylebone, Knightsbridge & Chelsea, Kensington & Holland Park and Elephant & Castle.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the easiest way to get around London?
- Tap a contactless card or phone on the Tube, Elizabeth line, buses and most rail — no separate ticket needed, with automatic daily and weekly fare caps so you never overpay.
- How do I get from Heathrow to central London?
- The Elizabeth line or Heathrow Express reach Paddington in about 15 minutes; from there the Tube connects across the city.