A Beginner's Guide to Traveling the London Underground

The London Underground is one of the most efficient ways to travel around the city, and it's used by thousands of commuters and travelers every hour. The underground subway system is comprised of twelve different railway lines, and it only takes a few days to learn how to make the most of your trip; each station has a poster of a Journey Planner that's color-coded for easy reference. This is a map that shows you which lines you need to jump on for each station, but you can also pick up a smaller version to carry with you from any station or newspaper agent.

The London Underground runs every single day except Christmas Day, and the first run begins at 5:30 a.m. You'll soon learn that the busiest hours are before an dafter work-primetime for commuter traffic-so if you're just traveling for a day of exploring, do your best to avoid the crowds and schedule your trip after 9 a.m. and before 4 p.m.

If you'll be making multiple trips throughout your stay, be sure to pick up the London Travel card or Oyster card as you explore. These offer the best discounts on multiple destinations, and you won't have to worry about carrying around extra ticket money or spare change. Ticket machines are available at every station (be warned that not all of these may be functioning, however) or from a ticket vendor located at the center of the station. The touch-screen machines are the most efficient way to get your tickets, but be prepared to wait in line.

When you get to the station, check the map to make sure you know which lines you need to take. If you're having trouble deciphering the colors, you'll find a legend at the bottom of the map, or you can check in with the (usually) friendly ticket clerk at the ticket office.

If you have your travel card or ticket in hand, you'll need to head over to the platform. If you've just purchased a ticket, the stub will tell you which platform you need to get to; follow the markers located around the station, but the only way to get to them is by going through a set of ticket barriers. These automatic machines require you to put the ticket into the front slot, and walk through the gate. Don't forget to pick up your stub as it goes through the machine!

Next, head over to your platform and look up for the electronic indicator. These will display which trains are coming your way, and some even include a tentative wait tme. When your train arrives, you'll need to push the red button to open the doors. Board the train, and take a look at the chart above the seats; this will show you exactly where you are on the Journey Planner, and you'll be able to see a series of upcoming stations.

As you step out, look for the 'Way out' sign (you won't find many 'EXIT' signs around London), and head back onto the street.

Congratulations, you've just completed your first trip using the London Underground!