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Getting around Newcastle

Public transport: 

The city's excellent Metro (tel: 0191 203 3333; www.nexus.org.uk) network is the easiest way to get around with stops at most places of interest. It connects the airport with both Newcastle and Gateshead city centres as well as destinations further afield such as Whitley Bay, South Shields and Sunderland. An extensive bus network (which includes Quaylink electric buses) provides services for destinations not covered by the Metro.

Various day saver tickets are available for both the Metro and the buses and there are also Transfare, Explorer, Day Rover and Network Traveltickets that allow unlimited travel across the network.

The last Metro service finishes around 2300, but some night bus services are available on the busier routes. See the Metro website for more details or Traveline North East (tel: 0871 200 2233; www.traveline.org.uk) provides comprehensive timetable and fare information for all local bus, Metro, train and ferry journeys throughout the northeast.

Taxis: 

There are numerous taxi ranks throughout the city and, particularly at night, there seems to be a constant flow of taxis ferrying passengers around town so there is never too long a wait. However, the weekends do get very busy, so for those who want to avoid queuing, it is worth pre-booking a taxi at peak times. Try Central Taxis (tel: (0191) 271 6363), Noda Taxis (tel: (0191) 222 1888) or Grosvenor Cars (tel: (0191) 240 4242).

Driving: 

It's relatively straightforward to drive around Newcastle, although parking can be expensive. The city is compact enough to explore on foot.

Car hire: 

Avis (tel: 0870 608 6350; www.avis.co.uk), Europcar (tel: (0191) 261 083; www.europcar.co.uk) and Hertz (tel: 0870 8502655 or 0870 8502653; www.hertz.co.uk) all have offices at the airport, in the city or both.

Bicycle hire: 

There are several cycle paths in and around the town though inexperienced cyclists should beware of heavy traffic and cycling outside town is the preferable option. Newcastle Tourist Information Centre stocks a variety of cycling guides including the free Tyneside Cycling Map and can advise on cycle hire.

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