Should I use contactless or Oyster in London?

Short answer: Either works across TfL services. A contactless bank card or phone is simplest; always tap the same card or device so the daily and weekly caps apply, and check your bank's overseas fees.

Can I use my contactless card on the London Underground?

Yes. TfL says you can use contactless or an Oyster card to pay as you go on all its services, including with a phone, watch or other device. Overseas charges may apply, so check with your card issuer.^[1]

Do I need to touch out?

On the Tube and rail, touch in and out with the same card or device to pay the right fare. On buses and trams you only touch in.^[1]

Is there a daily cap?

Yes. In Zones 1 to 9 TfL caps pay as you go so you can travel as much as you like in a day or a week (Monday to Sunday) without paying more, as long as you use the same card or device.^[1]

How much is a bus fare in London?

When we read TfL on 1 November 2026, an adult pay as you go bus or tram fare was 1.85 pounds, with a daily cap of 5.55 pounds and a weekly cap of 26.10 pounds.^[2]

Can a Visitor Oyster card be registered?

No. TfL says Visitor Oyster cards cannot be registered.^[1]

Related

• Oyster vs contactless at a glance
• Getting around London
• Paying for buses outside London
• More first-time questions