Getting Around London

Long-haul international flights are usually routed through Heathrow and Gatwick airports. The city's other three airports -  London City, Luton and Stansted - are used primarily for regional flights and hops to the Continent.

One of London's major international airports, Gatwick (LGW) is 28 miles south of the city center, off the M23. It's a 70-minute drive in normal conditions, but allow extra time for traffic delays. There are two terminals, north and south, so it's wise to double-check which one your flight is departing from (the newer north terminal is reached by taking a short train ride on an unmanned overhead railway. ) Though extremely busy, the second busiest airport in the U.K. after Heathrow, Gatwick provides a streamlined experience for travelers. Gatwick Express trains are the fastest way into the city. The journey to Victoria Station takes about half an hour, and trains depart every 15 minutes (less frequently between about midnight and 6 am).

Expanded in stages since its beginnings as a Royal Air Force strip in the 1940s, Heathrow (LHR) is London's busiest airport and the world's fourth busiest. It is located 15 miles west of the city, off the M4 motorway. The drive takes 50 minutes in normal traffic, but allow at least 90 minutes if you're catching a flight out. The Heathrow Express runs high-speed trains every 15 minutes to Paddington Station. The journey takes about 15 minutes . One other benefit: Some airlines let you check your bags at Paddington before your return trip, saving time at the airport. If you don't take the train, the next best option is the Tube. The Piccadilly line serves all four of Heathrow's terminals.

Most national and international coaches arrive at Victoria Coach Station, about 400 yds. south of Victoria Station. The bus lines to know are National Express (extensive service throughout Britain) and Eurolines (daily departures to the Continent).

Free public transport maps are available from information offices at train and Tube stations. Although contemporary-style buses are becoming more common, most London buses are still of the red double-decker variety. Buy tickets on board, except in some parts of central London where new ticket machines have been introduced alongside bus stops area. Although there's not much to see once you get there, the train (which runs on an elevated rail) offers an impressive view of the city.

The London Underground, otherwise known as the Tube, is the system of subways in London and out to the suburbs.

Water Taxis carry passengers from the center of London to destinations along the Thames, including Greenwich.

Taxis are plentiful in London. Ask the driver for an approximate fare before getting in. Most will accept credit cards.