Is a Visitor Oyster card the same as an Oyster card?
Yes, a Visitor Oyster card and an Oyster card are similar in many ways, but there are some differences to keep in mind. Both cards provide a convenient way to travel around London using public transportation. They are both contactless smartcards that allow you to pay for your journeys on buses, trams, the London Underground (Tube), the Docklands Light Railway (DLR), London Overground, TfL Rail, and most National Rail services in London. However, there are a few key distinctions that make the Visitor Oyster card unique.
The Visitor Oyster card is specifically designed for tourists and is available to purchase in advance. It offers numerous benefits for visitors, such as exclusive discounts and special offers on attractions, restaurants, and shops in London. The card also comes with a handy booklet containing maps and information about the city, helping tourists navigate their way around more easily.
Another difference is that the Visitor Oyster card has a £5 activation fee, which is non-refundable. This fee applies regardless of how much credit you load onto the card. On the other hand, an Oyster card does not have an activation fee but requires a minimum £5 top-up to use on pay-as-you-go journeys. Oyster cards are typically used by residents or frequent commuters and can be purchased and topped up at various locations throughout London.
It’s worth noting that both cards use the same pay-as-you-go system, meaning you can add credit to your card and the appropriate fare will be deducted automatically when you touch in and out of the different modes of transport. The fares on both cards are the same, and the daily price cap also applies to both.
In summary, while a Visitor Oyster card and an Oyster card function similarly and offer access to the same transportation network, the Visitor Oyster card is specifically tailored for tourists, offering additional benefits and a range of exclusive discounts.
