London Travelcard

The London Travelcard is practically a must-have. Like the Berlin WelcomeCard, once purchased at a fair price, it allows you to travel free on public transport and enjoy many discounts at public facilities, museums and attractions in London. London Travelcards can be purchased in advance from travel agencies or online, among other options. Buying one locally, however, saves on postage and transfer fees.

So anyone planning a holiday in London can save a considerable amount of money with a London Travelcard. It makes journeys between London hotels—or a holiday home booked on the outskirts of London—and the main sights and museums in London much more convenient, allowing you to look forward to a relaxing day out in London with your Travelcard.
There are, however, a few details to bear in mind. A London Travelcard is valid only on the day or days for which it was booked or purchased. Buying one before you travel saves you the trouble of looking for change, and avoids waiting at ticket counters in London, leaving you with more time to enjoy the city. London is divided into zones, so it is wise to decide before your trip which sights you want to see and which areas you plan to visit. This can help you save money and avoid detours. Zones 1 and 2 cover the city centre. If you want to travel beyond the centre, you will need a London Travelcard covering zones 1 to 6. If you plan to travel around London only after 9:30 a.m., choosing an “off-peak” Travelcard can save you even more money.

As a rule, up to four children under 11 can travel free with an adult’s London Travelcard. However, children do not receive their own ticket, which is normally required to pass through underground station barriers. The only solution is to carry the child through or ask a member of railway staff for assistance. London Travelcards are available as one-day, three-day and weekly passes. The days cannot be split up and must be used consecutively.