Getting Around London

London is a large city and choosing the right way to get around can make a real difference to how much you see and enjoy. Whether you prefer the flexibility of public transport or the commentary of a guided tour, there are options to suit every budget and schedule.

The Big Bus hop-on-hop-off tours are one of the most popular ways for first-time visitors to get an overview of the city, with open-top routes covering all the major landmarks and live or recorded commentary. For a more authentic London experience, a black cab tour with a licensed Knowledge cabbie gives you personal, expert commentary and the flexibility to go wherever you want.

The London Underground is the fastest way to cross the city, and an Oyster card or contactless payment makes it straightforward. For a more scenic journey, Thames Clippers run regular river bus services along the Thames, connecting Greenwich, the South Bank, Westminster, and the City — a commuter route that doubles as one of the best budget sightseeing trips in London.

The classic red London bus is another excellent way to sightsee on a budget — routes like the number 11 pass Big Ben, Trafalgar Square, and St Paul's Cathedral for the price of a standard fare. London Duck Tours add a splash of novelty with amphibious vehicles that drive through the streets before launching into the Thames. And for exploring at your own pace, Santander Cycles (Boris Bikes) are available from docking stations across the city for short-term hire.