A Guide To London’s Transport [Tube, Buses, Cabs + More]

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It is easy to feel intimidated by a city the size of London, especially when it comes to getting around.

London encompasses an area of 607 sq. miles (double the size of NYC) and is packed with world-famous attractions and landmarks, most of which are spread out miles from each other.

It’s impossible to get around London without using public transport. And what’s more, is there are so many types of public transport to choose from, as a visitors, it can be really tough to work it out.

But don’t worry, we’ve been there, we’ve felt the confusion, and cracked the code to navigating London on public transport. Here are our top tips…

Understanding London Zones

Before you can plan getting around London, it’s helpful to understand the London Zones.

For public transport speak, or simply to aid in orientation in London, the city is divided into zones, starting from Zone 1 (in the city center) and expanding out to Zone 9 (on its very far edges).

Most of the top attractions are in Zones 1 & 2, but you may want to stay in Zones 3-6 for cheaper accommodation. It’s helpful to know that the London Underground (or the Tube as the locals call it) only reaches Zone 6.

To reach Zone 7-9, you’ll need to take an overground train network, which is fine, but these trains are more expensive.

Staying this far out defeats the point of staying further away from the city center to save money on accommodation, as you’ll end up making up the difference with transport.

Trains in the UK are notoriously expensive!

If you’re coming in and out of Heathrow Airport on the tube, it’s handy to know you’ll be coming in from Zone 6.

All of this is necessary to know to understand how much to pay for your Tube tickets as prices are determined by the zones you travel through.

Types of Transport in London

Now you know about the zones, it’s time to introduce you to each mode of transport. We’ll begin with the obvious, the London Underground Network, and then go on to discuss other transport such as buses, ferries, and cabs (taxis).

Afterwards, we’ll share some of our tips for getting around London.

The London Underground (The Tube)

The London Underground (or Tube) as it is affectionately known,…