Tips when travelling to London
Things people wish they knew before visiting London
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48
Votes
Transportation
Use your contactless payment card for everything; no need to carry cash or get an Oyster card.
27
Votes
Transportation
Each person in your group needs their own payment card when using public transport.
26
Votes
Transportation
Remember to tap out with your card when you leave the Tube station.
26
Votes
Transportation
After reaching the daily fare cap, your subsequent rides on public transport are free.
25
Votes
Transportation
Use Citymapper and Google Maps to navigate the city efficiently.
25
Votes
Food & Drink
Try to avoid chain restaurants and places with overly long menus.
21
Votes
Transportation
Use the Tube to get around; trains are frequent and easy to navigate.
20
Votes
Safety & Security
Be cautious of people who approach you and place items on your table while talking; they might be trying to steal your belongings.
19
Votes
Food & Drink
For better value and atmosphere when dining out, try restaurants in zones 2 and 3 instead of zone 1.
16
Votes
Transportation
Book long-distance train tickets early to save on fares.
16
Votes
Safety & Security
Be careful when crossing streets; traffic comes from the opposite direction compared to what you're used to.
15
Votes
Transportation
Prepare your ticket or payment method in advance to smoothly pass through tube barriers.
13
Votes
Transportation
Consider doing the Hop On/Hop Off bus on one of your first days to get the lay of the land.
13
Votes
Nightlife & Entertainment
Visit the TKTS ticket booth in Leicester Square for discounted theatre tickets.
12
Votes
Weather & Clothing
Dress in layers to stay prepared for London's variable weather conditions.
9
Votes
Money & Currency
Most museums in London offer free entry.
9
Votes
Safety & Security
Stay vigilant with personal belongings to prevent phone snatching and pickpocketing.
9
Votes
Transportation
Walking can occasionally be faster than public transport for short distances.
9
Votes
Accommodation
Casual attire such as jeans and sneakers is suitable for museums and bars.
9
Votes
Transportation
Prepare for potential airport delays by having essentials in hand luggage.
7
Votes
Transportation
Be aware that taxis and Ubers from Heathrow include a £5 surcharge due to a new fee.
6
Votes
Culture & Customs
Stop on one side of the sidewalk to avoid blocking others when admiring sights.
6
Votes
Transportation
Consider using Uber for cost-effective rides compared to black cabs.
6
Votes
Transportation
Download the Citymapper app for efficient London navigation.
6
Votes
Transportation
Experience a unique city view by taking the Thames Clipper river transport.
5
Votes
Attractions & Sightseeing
Some of the free museums require reservations, so remember to check their websites ahead of time.
4
Votes
Culture & Customs
Tipping in sit-down restaurants is generally between 10%-20%. Check for pre-included service charges.
4
Votes
Weather & Clothing
Pack a windbreaker; the wind can be chilly even when it's hot.
4
Votes
Transportation
Each traveler must use their own card or payment method for public transportation.
3
Votes
Transportation
Use contactless payment for easy daily and weekly public transport costs management.
3
Votes
Transportation
If you plan to use express trains from the airport, book tickets in advance for cheaper fares.
3
Votes
Accommodation
Pack versatile clothing like jumpers for variable summer weather in the UK.
3
Votes
Local Laws & Regulations
Cigarettes are highly taxed, making smoking an expensive habit in London.
3
Votes
Safety & Security
For longer distances, consider public transport; Google Maps can mislead walking times.
1
Votes
Money & Currency
Use bank cards without foreign transaction fees for cost-effective payments.
1
Votes
Culture & Customs
Public bathrooms may require a fee; facilities in cafes are often better-maintained.
1
Votes
Safety & Security
Tourists can access NHS hospital services in emergencies.
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