How Do I Get From London City Airport to the City Centre Tube?
London City Airport (LCY) is the closest airport to Central London, making it extremely easy to reach the city centre by Tube and public transport. If you’re landing at LCY and wondering how to connect to the London Underground, the answer is simple: use the DLR (Docklands Light Railway).
In this guide, we’ll explain exactly how to travel from London City Airport to the City Centre Tube, how long it takes, how much it costs, and when a taxi or private transfer might be a better option.
Is There a Tube Station at London City Airport?
❌ No — London City Airport does not have a direct Underground (Tube) station.
✅ Yes — it has a direct DLR station, which connects seamlessly to multiple London Underground lines.
The DLR is fast, reliable, and designed specifically to connect East London, Canary Wharf, and Central London.
Step-by-Step: London City Airport to City Centre by Tube
Step 1: Take the DLR from London City Airport
Exit the terminal and follow signs to London City Airport DLR Station
Trains run every 5–8 minutes
Use Oyster card, contactless, or mobile pay
⏱️ Travel time: 7–10 minutes to Canning Town
💷 Cost: £3–£6
Step 2: Change to the London Underground (Tube)
Depending on where you’re heading, here are the most common Tube connections:
DLR → Bank Station (Direct)
Connects to: Central, Northern, Waterloo & City lines
Ideal for: City of London, Soho, Oxford Circus
DLR → Canning Town → Jubilee Line
Ideal for: London Bridge, Westminster, Bond Street
DLR → Stratford → Central Line
Ideal for: Holborn, Oxford Circus, West London
⏱️ Total journey time: 20–30 minutes from airport to Central London
How Much Does It Cost From LCY to the City Centre Tube?
DLR + Tube: £3–£6 (with Oyster/contactless)
No separate tickets needed
One of the cheapest airport transfers in London
For a full breakdown of all transport options, see:👉 How Do I Get From London City Airport to the Centre of London
Is the DLR the Best Option for Everyone?
The DLR is excellent, but it may not suit every traveller.
DLR is best if you:
✔ Are travelling light
✔ Want the cheapest option
✔ Are arriving during the day
✔ Don’t mind train changes
DLR may not be ideal if you:
❌ Have heavy luggage
❌ Are travelling with family
❌ Have an early-morning or late-night flight
❌ Want door-to-door comfort
Alternative: Taxi or Private Transfer From London City Airport
If convenience matters more than cost, a taxi or private transfer is the easiest option.
Why choose a taxi or private car?
Door-to-door service
No train changes
Fixed pricing (for private transfers)
Ideal for luggage and groups
Available 24/7
⏱️ Travel time: 15–25 minutes
💷 Average cost: £35–£75 (depending on option)
To decide which is better for your journey, read:👉 Taxi vs Shuttle – What’s Better for Your Airport Ride?
What Is the Fastest Way to Reach the City Centre?
Fastest public transport: DLR + Tube (20–30 mins)
Fastest door-to-door: Taxi or private transfer (15–25 mins, traffic-dependent)
If you’re short on time or travelling for business, private transfers often save stress.
Final Thoughts
Getting from London City Airport to the City Centre Tube is one of the easiest airport journeys in London. The DLR provides a fast, cheap, and reliable link to the Underground, while taxis and private transfers offer comfort and flexibility.
If you want a stress-free, door-to-door journey, you can always book a private transfer in advance.
👉 Contact Us for Transfers & Quotes
FAQs – London City Airport to City Centre Tube
1. Can I take the Tube directly from London City Airport?
No, but the DLR connects directly to multiple Tube lines.
2. Which Tube station is best from LCY?
Bank, Canning Town, and Stratford are the most popular connections.
3. Does the DLR run at night?
No. Late-night or early-morning travellers should use a taxi or private transfer.
4. Is the DLR step-free?
Yes, the DLR is step-free and luggage-friendly, though trains can be busy at peak hours.
