Comparison of transport systems from Gatwick (LGW) to London

Gatwick Airport is located 45 kilometers (28 miles) south of central London and started as an aerodrome in the 1920s, opening officially in 1936. The airport ranks consistently among the busiest in the UK and Europe, being a primary gateway for both domestic and international travelers. The airport's North Terminal and South Terminal collectively cater to millions of passengers annually. Passenger numbers routinely exceed tens of millions, underscoring its fundamental role in linking people from various corners of the globe. Even though it is served by many airline companies, such as British Airways, easyJet, and TUI Airways, Gatwick's commitment to being green is very strong and important.

This article will give to travelers all the information and details they need to know about all the transportation methods available to get from Gatwick to London city center. The big variety of transportation options available are able to meet specific individual preferences and needs. Among these methods there are: both private and public taxis, airport shuttles, train services, and buses. Each one has its strengths and weaknesses, but the best choice is to book a private taxi in advance, since this service can satisfy any request.

Despite common beliefs, private taxi transfers can be very affordable, especially for long trips from the airport to the city center and for large groups. To book, just fill out the online form on our Gatwick Airport Taxi page.

 Route by car from Gatwick airport (LGW) to London: around 63 km (39 miles) from the city center

Firstly, it's important to understand the main differences between a private taxi and a public taxi.

With a private taxi, the customer is provided with the advantage of knowing the price upfront, which ensures they won't encounter unexpected charges or scams and allows them to plan a budget. Additionally, private taxi drivers hold official licenses, ensuring their professionalism and expertise. Passengers won't have to stand in queues at the airport, and even if their flight is delayed, the driver will wait for an additional hour, without any extra-charge.

The service is characterized by its comfort and punctuality, and it includes an emergency contact number for any potential issues. Private taxis also stand out because the driver waits inside the airport with a sign showing the customer's name. They help passengers with their luggage and take them directly to the vehicle.

Conversely, when choosing a public taxi, customers are often left uncertain about the final cost of the ride, as it can be subject to change. Drivers might not have the same level of professionalism as their private counterparts and, in some cases, could lack the required licenses, potentially affecting the passenger's overall experience.

How much does a private taxi from Gatwick to London cost?

Below, it is shown the normal price for a private taxi transfer from Gatwick to London city center. Anyway, it is important to remember that this price may change depending on the time of the day and the number of passengers. In order to know the correct price, it is possible to fill in the online form at our Gatwick Airport Taxi page.

For those seeking a swift and seamless connection between Gatwick Airport and London Victoria Station, the Gatwick Express stands out as a dedicated train service. This specialized route serves as a fast and convenient passage between the airport and the heart of the city. With its non-stop journey, the service minimizes travel time by exclusively stopping at these two crucial points.

Even though the Gatwick Express offers a direct route, it is nearly always necessary to change the transport means in order to get to the stop closest to the passenger's accommodation. In fact, those who arrive at the station have to choose between buses or metros to reach their destination. The change can be quite uncomfortable, in particular for travelers who have big luggages or young children. Anyway, it is always possible to book in advance a private taxi from Victoria Station to the final destination.

Map of the route on the Gatwick Express from the airport to London Victoria Station

For travelers seeking a convenient and efficient way to reach the heart of London from Gatwick Airport, one primary transportation option stands out: the National Express. This renowned company provides a network of bus services that cater to the diverse needs of passengers, offering a comfortable journey from the airport to the city center.

It is important to remember that public buses are shared services, and as such they might not be the best choice for all the travelers. Some people, in fact, prefer to have a private transfer and to personally choose the pick-up and drop-off location, in order to avoid the stress of looking for the correct bus stop with heavy luggage and the uncertainty of bus schedules.

Route by bus from Gatwick airport to London City center