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London’s underground train network, or “tube”, is the fastest way to get around town, but trains are crowded during rush-hour. Lines are colour-coded and easy to follow on the map. Trains run from around 5:30am to midnight, with fares based on the six zones into which the network is divided. Zone 1 covers Central London.

Slower than the tube but a cheaper way to travel, buses are also a good way of seeing the city as you go. To travel in the city between midnight and 6am, you will need a night bus. Night buses may be picked up at bus stops around Trafalgar Square.

The automated overland railway serving Docklands is a fairly recent addition to the transport system. It is linked to the Underground network at Bank, Tower Gateway (near Tower Hill) and other points. One arm heads south, under the river, to Greenwich and Lewisham. Outside rush hour, it is a pleasant way of seeing this regenerated area of the East End.

One-day and weekend Travelcards are economical if you make more than two trips by public transport in a day. They can be bought at tube stations and at many newsagents and grocer shops. Valid on the Underground, buses and the DLR, on weekdays they are only valid after 9:30am. Weekly and monthly Travelcards, and pre-pay Oyster cards, are also available: for a monthly pass you need a passport-sized photo.

Suburban and intercity travel is served through the 10 main London termini. Rail travel is expensive and the fare structures complicated. Planning ahead for long journeys is advisable and may save money.

London’s black cabs can be hailed anywhere; their “For Hire” sign is lit up when they are free. You can also find them at railway stations, airports and taxi ranks. A 10 per cent tip is customary. Black cabs can be ordered in advance from Radio Taxis and Dial-a-Cab.

Minicabs are best obtained by telephone or by visiting a firm’s office. Avoid picking one up on the street, or from one of the shady offices in Soho, as they are likely to be uninsured, ignorant of the city and unsafe drivers. “Lady Cabs” have only women drivers.

Car rental is not cheap in the United Kingdom and the rates are similar among the larger companies. Europcar and Thrifty are most likely to offer deals. Drivers must show a valid licence and be aged 21 or even 24.

You need a strong nerve to cycle in London’s busy traffic, but it can be a great way to see the city. Lock up bikes as theft is common. There is a choice of bicycle rental companies in London.

Walking is a rewarding option in London. The centre of the capital is not large, and you will be surprised at how short the distance usually is between two points that seem quite far apart when travelled by tube. Traffic drives on the left in the UK, so take care when crossing the road, and watch for light signals.