Getting around on the Underground starts with a map. The London Underground map is a masterpiece of design. Created in the 1930s by Harry Beck, it looks more like an electrical circuit diagram than an actual map of the city. All lines are color-coded, and stations are represented by dots.
To plan your route, use:
- Maps at stations.
- Apps such as Google Maps or Citymapper.
- The Transport for London (TfL) website.
Paying for travel
The London Underground is not the cheapest in the world, but there are several ways to save money:
- Oyster Card: a rechargeable card that reduces the cost of travel. It is cheaper than buying paper tickets.
- Contactless bank card: works the same as Oyster, but does not require pre-recharging.
- Travelcard: a good option if you plan to travel all day or all week.
Fares are charged by zone. London is divided into 9 zones, with zone 1 being the center and zone 9 being the outer suburbs. Most tourist attractions are located in zones 1–2.
Operating hours
The London Underground operates from 5 a.m. to midnight, and some lines have night trains (Night Tube) on Fridays and Saturdays. But always check the schedule, especially if you are traveling early in the morning or late at night.
Examples of London Underground fares
Stratford ↔ Canary Wharf
Line: Jubilee Line.
Why it’s important: Stratford is the main transport hub for residents of East London and the suburbs (it is home to a railway station and London Overground station). Canary Wharf is a financial center where thousands of people work.
Special feature: Morning trains are filled with office workers in suits heading to the skyscrapers of Docklands. In the evening, the route is reversed.
Cost: £1.90
Clapham Junction ↔ Victoria
Lines: London Overground + Southern Railway + Victoria Line.
Why it’s important: Clapham Junction is the largest transfer hub for trains in south London, through which thousands of passengers from the suburbs pass. Victoria is an important transport hub with access to the underground and trains to the center.
Special feature: These stations connect the southern suburbs with central offices and shopping areas. Transfers here are often busy.
Cost: £3.40
Liverpool Street ↔ Moorgate
Lines: Central Line + Circle Line + Elizabeth Line.
Why it matters: Liverpool Street serves passengers from east London and Essex, while Moorgate is the closest station to the City of London business district.
Special feature: The journey is only one stop, but it is hugely important for those who work in the financial heart of London.
Cost: £2.80
Waterloo ↔ Bank
Lines: Waterloo & City Line.
Why it matters: Waterloo is the largest railway station in London, and Bank is a key point for financial sector workers.
Special feature: The Waterloo & City Line only operates during rush hour, serving passengers who commute between home and work every day.
Cost: £2.80