London Oyster card frequently asked questions

Plan to travel around London? Unsure which travel ticket to buy? Use this handy guide to frequently asked questions about Oyster cards and Visitor Oyster cards.

Close-up of a London transport Visitor Oyster Card with a yellow Oyster Card reader in the background.

Oyster card FAQs: the basics

It's easy and convenient to pay for your journey when travelling on the London transport network. Learn the basics to help you explore London.

Person holding a blue London transport Oyster card with a London Underground train arriving at a Tube platform in the background.

Oyster card FAQs: which to buy?

The cheapest way to travel around London on the bus, Tube, tram, DLR, London Overground and most National Rail services is to use an Oyster card.

Passenger uses a colourful Visitor Oyster card at the Tube gate in London

Oyster FAQs: using your card

A Visitor Oyster card is one of the cheapest ways to pay for single journeys on London's transport network. Learn how to use your Oyster card to get around London.

Oyster card in front of a card reader on the London Underground

How to get an Oyster card refund

Find out how to get a refund for the credit on your Visitor Oyster card or Oyster card once you leave London (and don't plan to return!).