London Do‚s

  • Invest in an Oyster Card to receive discount fares on the underground. These can be purchased at London Underground Stations.
  • Avoid travelling on the underground during peak times (before 9:30 and between 16:00 and 19:00 each weekday) to avoid crowds and peak fares.
  • Carry a map with you at all times.
  • Take advantage of the city‚s many wonderful free attractions such as the British Museum and Hyde Park.
  • Ride a boat along the Thames to get a different view of the city. Thames Clippers run regularly between Embankment and Greenwich 7 days a week.
  • Book tickets to popular attractions like the London Eye, Sea Life London, and London theatre shows ahead of time to avoid long lines.
  • Bring comfortable walking shoes. Many parts of London are best seen on foot.
  • Take note of opening times for shops, museums and other attractions. Many open late or are closed on Sundays.

London Don‚ts

  • Don‚t rely on public transportation past midnight. The underground network closes at midnight, with the final trains making their routes from 23:30. If you‚re out late, plan on using the night bus, driving or making cab arrangements.
  • Don‚t plan trips on the underground without first checking for route closures. Stations and lines can often be closed for repairs on weekends.
  • Don‚t confuse London Bridge and Tower Bridge. London Bridge is a fairly modern concrete structure whilst Tower Bridge is the famous bridge built in the late 1800s.
  • Don‚t wait for a waiter or waitress at a pub. Instead, take note of your table number and order foods and drinks directly from the bar.
  • Don‚t expect year-round access to Buckingham Palace, Big Ben or the Houses of Parliament. These are typically open on a seasonal basis or require advanced booking.
  • Don‚t underestimate travel time. Underground delays, street construction and events can slow down travel, so plan an itinerary that leaves plenty of room for flexibility.