Modern-day London still largely reflects its medieval layout. This willfully difficult tangle of streets will be totally confusing to anyone accustomed to the rigidity of a grid system. Even Londoners, most of whom own a copy of the indispensable A-Z street finder (they come under different names), get lost. But London's bewildering street pattern is a plus for those who want to penetrate the city's crust.

London is a walker's city and will repay every moment you spend exploring on foot. But to get somewhere quickly, the easiest and most practical way to get around is on the Underground or "tube." This subway system runs daily from early morning to night and provides comprehensive service. The overground rail system connects outlying districts and suburbs to the center. Buses crisscross all over town, but their routes are more complicated than the tube. A Travelcard pass gives you discounted flexible travel on the tube, plus bus and some overground rail travel. Taxis can be relatively inexpensive if you are traveling in groups; flag them down on the street (look for the lit yellow For Hire sign).

London's postal district system can be useful for finding your way around. The first one or two letters give the location: N means north, NW means northwest, etc. Generally the lower numbers, such as W1 or SW1, are closest to the city center.