United Kingdom Traveler Essentials
- Capital
- London
- Currency
- GBP (Pound)
- Best time to visit
- June–August for warmest weather. Christmas in London is magical.
Visa requirements
US, EU, Australian visitors don't need a visa for up to 6 months. An ETA is required from 2025.
Getting around
The UK's extensive rail network connects cities quickly (book ahead for the best fares), with long-distance coaches (National Express, Megabus) as a cheaper option and few domestic flights needed. London has the Tube, buses and trains on contactless/Oyster, other cities have trams and buses, and black cabs plus Uber and Bolt are widely available.
Safety
The UK is very safe. Standard urban precautions apply. Drive on the left.
Tipping customs
Tipping is customary in restaurants at around 10–15%, but check whether a 'service charge' is already added before tipping again. Tipping in pubs isn't expected (offer to buy the bartender a drink instead), round up taxi fares or add about 10%, and tip hotel porters a pound or two.
Travel tips
Get an Oyster card for London transport. Tipping is appreciated (10-15%).