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London · Oyster card

Public Transit Pass in London

London's public transit card is the Oyster card.

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Frequently asked questions

What public transit card do I need in London?

London uses the Oyster card. Tapping a contactless debit/credit card or phone is now easier than buying an Oyster card for most visitors — fares are automatically capped daily.

Where do I buy the Oyster card in London?

You can buy it at Tube stations, newsagents, or just tap a contactless card/phone directly.

Is it worth getting a transit card for a short trip to London?

Usually yes — it's typically faster than buying paper tickets and often cheaper per ride, even for just a couple of days.

Can I use a contactless bank card instead in London?

In some cities you can tap a contactless card or phone directly, though it's worth checking current signage or the transit authority's site, since not every system supports it yet.