Introduction

Choosing how to pay for the Tube is one of the first decisions you’ll make in London. While both Oyster cards and contactless payments are convenient, each has its advantages.

Oyster Card Advantages

• Easy budgeting
• Refundable balance
• Useful for longer stays

Contactless Advantages

• No setup required
• Automatic daily fare caps
• Works with most international cards

Which Should You Choose?

• Short trips: Contactless
• Longer stays or families: Oyster

Learn how pricing changes based on timing in peak and off peak hours

• Find exact fares for specific routes using the TfL Single Fare Finder.
• View all new fare tables on the TfL Fares page.