london bus tours offers

• Select Language
• Select Currency
• Australian Dollar
• Canadian Dollar
• Chinese Yuan (CNY)
• British Pound (GBP)
• Indian Rupees (INR)
• Japanese Yen (JPY)
• Malaysian Ringgit
• Newzealand Dollar
• Singapore Dollar

Hop On Hop Off London - Bus Tours

Looking for ways to explore the city and see all its best bits? Hop-On Hop-Off London is the most fun way to explore the capital city of England and the UK. Pick the open-top Tootbus or City Sightseeing London Bus Tour to navigate around one of the world's busiest cities. Your bus will pass through all key attractions like London Eye, Buckingham Palace, Madam Tussauds, London Bridge, The Shard and allow you to get off and get on as you like. Visit and wave to Nelson standing tall on his Trafalgar Square column or marvel at the futuristic and expanding city skyline. What's more, all your tickets come with options to add on extras.

London Sightseeing Bus Tours

( ) experiences found.

• Recommended
• High to low
• Low to high
• User rating

Top Customer Reviews

Carol holobinko.

So easy to see the sights without doing all of the driving!

Judelka Gumbs

Booked a last minute tour from the same day and it was worth it. The bus locations and stops were easy to find and there were members of staff in most locations ready to help and guide you. The bus seats were comfortable and the audio was informative, audible and comical making the experience enjoyable.

Anna Jenkins

Excellent tour! Great way to see the city.

Experience London in Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours

Get to ride the London Eye or visit Madame Tussauds to say 'hello' to the stars! You'll be saving some pennies if you do. Your ticket allows you to hop off the bus where you choose. You can always hop back on again later!

Nothing beats a good combo ticket. Check out all the options in the simple online booking process. All tickets offered by Golden Tours and Original Hop-On Hop-Off London Bus Tours come with options to add on the London Eye, Madame Tussauds, and more. Options will be presented in the simple online booking process.

And those looking for some great deals may wish to pick up The London Pass, which provides access to the Tower of London, skip-the-line admission at St. Paul's Cathedral, and a lot more! A London Hop-On Hop-Off tour is the perfect accompaniment to your trip and also one of the best things to do in the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: what is a hop-on hop-off london bus tour.

A Hop-on Hop-off London bus tour essentially works over a designated route that allows you to see London’s top attractions and set your own itinerary. With all the stops located strategically around all the major attractions, it is convenient to explore at your own pace. When you are ready to return, simply show your pass, hop back on the bus and onward toward your next attraction. You can do this as many times as you like within your ticket limit.

Q: What are the key attractions covered in the London Hop-On Hop-Off tour?

London Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour will take you through major attractions and landmarks including Trafalgar Square, Thames River, Westminster pier or Tower of London pier, London Eye, Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, St Paul's Cathedral, Downing Street, Piccadilly, Buckingham Palace, and more.

Q: Where can I find a list of all the stops and a map of the various Hop-On Hop-Off London tour routes?

You can visit the relevant product page and check the Useful Downloads section to find the latest information as routes, stops and timings change frequently.

Q: Are these tours guided?

Depending on the London tour operator, bus tours can either have a live guide or an audio guide. You can enjoy an informative commentary on the bus as you pass famous attractions and neighborhoods.

Q: What is the validity of the tour?

You can choose from 24/36/48/72-hour or ½/3-day London tours depending on your travel plans. The vouchers are valid anywhere between 6 months to 12 months and can be used anytime during that period.

Other Hop On Hop Off Destinations

• New York City
• San Francisco
• Washington DC
• Los Angeles
• Johannesburg
• San Antonio
• Reykjavik Iceland
• St-Petersburg
• Benalmadena
• Thessaloniki
• Kristiansand
• BUENOS AIRES
• Hop On Hop Off Bus Offers and Deals

travel inspiration from guidebook

LONDON CALLING : Top London Attractions to Experience in England’s Capital in 2023

London – the dynamic and lively capital of England welcomes you! From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, this bustling metropolis has no… The post LONDON CALLING : Top London Attractions to Experience in England’s Capital in 2023 appeared first on The Guidebook - isango! .

The Best Way to Capture London – Take a Thames River Cruise

Ride the Thames Tide The post The Best Way to Capture London – Take a Thames River Cruise appeared first on The Guidebook - isango! .

Celebrating the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee – Top Royal Tours to Take

Hooray, it’s a celebration day! The post Celebrating the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee – Top Royal Tours to Take appeared first on The Guidebook - isango! .

Get the latest offers and inspiration

Sign up to our newsletter and get the best isango! has to offer

• Enter a valid email
• Enter the characters shown below Captcha not matching

Terms of Use

• Booking terms & conditions
• Picture credits

Get in touch

Haven't found what you're looking for?

Try a more specific search (e.g Add city or destination name)

You have signed up successfully.

Please stay tuned on your email for exciting offers.

Sign Up Login Login Or Sign Up

Sign up to create and view bookings Login to create and view bookings

• Enter full name
• E-Mail ID Already Exists User does not exist Enter a valid email
• Please enter password Enter valid password(at least 6 characters)
• Remember me Forgot Password
• I wish to receive top deals and travel inspiration
• By signing up you agree to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Forgot Password

• Enter your email address and we will send an email with a link to reset your password.
• Continue Login

Email sent successfully.

London sightseeing bus tours : places to visit in London

London themed tours.

Unique rooftop on wheels

• Catchy playlist
• Drinks available on board

London Kids Tour

Non-stop live guided bus tour

• Live guided in English
• Fun and educational

London by Night

Non-stop evening bus tour

• 3 walking tours
• Adult & kids commentary

London Christmas Lights Tour

• London's iconic lights

Hop-on hop-off tours: Discover London at your own pace

Must See London

Hop-on hop-off bus tour + cruise

• 1, 2 or 3 days
• 3 bus routes
• River cruise

London Discovery

Hop-on hop-off bus tour + walking tours

London Discovery + London By Night

Daytime hop-on hop-off bus tour + evening bus tour

• 3 daytime bus routes
• 1 night tour

Private Tour

Private Bus Hire London

For more details

• Team building
• Educational tours

Discover London with Tootbus , the must-do sightseeing bus tour experience!

 Enjoy our various routes to explore the city at your own pace, with panoramic views from our open-top deck buses .

Embark wherever you like on our different lines to discover London and all its iconic landmarks.  Our themed tours will immerse you in the heart of its history, culture, and architectural wonders. Whether with children on the Kids Tour , over a drink on the Bar Bus , or with your loved one on the Night Tour , there's something for everyone!

Continue your excursion beyond your sightseeing bus tour with Tootwalk . Our free guided walking tours , available through the Tootbus app on App Store and Google Play , will accompany you on your strolls in London, which will no longer hold any secrets for you. 

Let the city simply take you by surprise, welcome to London!

17 Best London Bus Tours in 2023 (ranked!)

This post contains affiliate links for which I may make a small commission to help keep the site running. You will not be charged extra for these items had you not clicked the links. Thank you for your help to keep the site running!

Ready to tour London by bus?

You’ve come to the right place. I live in London, and have spent a lot of time figuring out the best London bus tours so that you can make the most of your trip to this incredible city.

In this guide, we’re going to explore the best 17 London bus tours – all led by expert guides who want to share their knowledge and help you have a memorable time.

If you’re like, just cut to the chase already, then don’t worry.

⏳ Don’t have time to read the whole list?

The best London bus tour is this Hop-On and Hop-Off bus tour .

Click here to check prices and availability.

The best London bus tour if you want the classic sightseeing experience is this Big Bus Hop-On and Hop-Off Bus Tour and the best bus tour in London if you want something a bit different is this Spooky London Ghost Vintage bus tour.

They both have hundreds of amazing reviews, so there’s no going wrong.

London is a massive city that can be much easier to explore by bus, and there are plenty of London bus tours that will cater to your specific interests, whether that be music history, architecture, filming locations in London , or something else entirely!

If you want to see what your other options are, here are the best London bus tours that are definitely worth your time.

PS – booking in advance is highly, highly recommended so you don’t miss out.

Easy Guide: Best London Bus Tour Picks

Best classic bus tours in london, 1. big bus hop-on hop-off classic london tour.

⭐️  RATING:  4 out of 5 Stars, 7,300+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1-3 day pass | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Big Bus is the most iconic London bus tour and one of my favorite of the sightseeing tours that are hop-on/hop-off style.

Choose the red route if you have less time, or the blue route if you want to see more of London, and enjoy being whizzed around the city with information at each stop about what you’re looking at (the worst kind of bus tour is one where they don’t even tell you!).

Big Bus operate in multiple cities around the world, so the formula isn’t new in London, but it’s a tried-and-tested hop-on and hop-off tour, and that’s why it makes my list as the best one if you’re just going to do one bus tour in London.

2. Vintage London Bus Tour with Optional London Eye

⭐️  RATING:  4 out of 5 Stars, 370+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours 30 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

The difference between this bus tour and a normal sightseeing tour is that you get to travel in style on a vintage London bus, not one of the ugly themed hop-on and hop-off bus styles.

The London Eye can also be included in your sightseeing ticket, which is a fantastic way to cover both at once as you’ll finish at the London Eye and not waste any time in traveling there (because the bus will take you!).

This is not a hop-on and hop-off variation, so this is also great if you don’t really need to get on or off and just want to sit and enjoy the views.

3. London Tootbus Must-See Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

⭐️  RATING:  4 out of 5 Stars, 3,500+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour 30 – 2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW!

Tootbus is newer on the scene in London when it comes to bus tours, but they’re doing amazing and have fantastic reviews and lots of repeat customers.

There are three different circuits to choose from to customize your London bus experience, and the upper deck is obviously the best place to sit (particularly when you’re going over the bridges!).

Tootbus is a great option for families with kids in London , as it has a little bit more of a casual vibe than the Big Bus options.

4. London Vintage Bus Tour with Thames Cruise

⭐️  RATING:  4 out of 5 Stars, 170+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Want to combine your London sightseeing bus tour with a Thames river cruise?

This is your best bet!

So many people want to do both during their time in London, and this is a great option for that, combining land and river for an epic sightseeing day out.

For the record, I prefer doing a sightseeing cruise with sightseeing bus in the warmer months, and a sightseeing bus with the London Eye (a previously listed tour – scroll up a bit) during the colder months just for comfort.

5. Golden Tours Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus

⭐️  RATING:  4 out of 5 Stars, 600+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 day | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Golden Tours offer a hop-on and hop-off sightseeing tour around London that rivals the other big companies, and they are easy to spot with their blue and orange coloring.

I love that the front of the upper deck is covered in case the weather is bad, while the back of the top is open to the elements in case the sun is shining (or you just want to brave it!).

They do audio tours instead of live guides on their buses, so it’s better if you want that pre-recorded experience or have already tried Big Bus or Tootbus.

Best Night Bus Tours in London

6. london by night open top sightseeing tour.

⭐️  RATING:  4 out of 5 Stars, 540+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour 30 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

London is completely different at night , and even if you’ve done a London sightseeing tour during the daytime, a London bus tour at night is such a memorable experience that I recommend to all visitors.

This tour takes you all around the most iconic London attractions to see them lit up and sparkling in the dark, including the bright lights of the London Eye, the Tower of London , and the iconic Westminster Abbey.

You’ll get to see a side of the city that many people never see, and it can be a great thing to do on your first night in London to try and beat that jet lag.

7. London Christmas Lights at Night Bus Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4 out of 5 Stars, 130+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour 45 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Deck the halls in London with a beautiful Christmas lights bus tour during the winter season.

There is something so insanely magical about London in winter when the Christmas lights are on, and this tour will take you right down some of the most important streets like Oxford Street and Regent’s Street.

The best part is that on the upper deck, you’ll be right under and right up close to the lights, as well as have a great vantage point to lights on the sides of the street lighting up the shops.

It’s a really wonderful tour to take in London in the winter if you’re visiting around the holiday season, and one I recommend to my friends and family often.

Best Music Bus Tours in London

8. rock music bohemian soho and north london tour.

⭐️  RATING:  5 of 5 Stars, 12+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3.5 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

From Pink Floyd’s studio to the former home of Rod Stewart, the Rock Music Bohemian tour will take you through some of London’s most boho neighborhoods to let you into the world of rock music legends like The Clash, the Beatles, Sting, and so much more.

You’ll get to take a bus around town, meaning you can hit more places than if you go on a walking tour, and along the way you’ll also get to enjoy the architecture and charm of Camden, Islington, and of course the iconic Abbey Road.

Listen to the music blasting from your bus as you tour around the city, perfectly timed with the stops, and enjoy this wonderful world of London rock music with an expert (and hilarious) guide.

9. London Rock Legends Bus Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 350+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours 30 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Another fantastic option for music fans, the London Rock Legends bus tour is a great choice if you’re wanting to see Notting Hill, Soho, Chelsea, and more – and if those don’t ring a bell to you, think: Ringo’s House, Jimmy Page’s house, and tons of Queen-related locations.

You’ll zip around the city with your guide and leave feeling like you’ve truly learned something new about the musical history of London – this tour is similar to the one mentioned above, so choose which one works best for your schedule.

10. A Ticket to Ride: Beatles in London Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.6 out of 5 Stars, 170+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours 30 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Join the Beatles’ vibe on a chill evening bus tour through London, catching the city all lit up.

Cruise through the ‘Beatlemania’ era, from 1962 to 1969, and beyond, hitting up Mayfair, Marylebone, St John’s Wood, and the edge of Soho. Celebrate the ‘Fab Four’ spanning over 50 years.

Swing by cool spots like the Scotch of St James Club and other joints where the Beatles hung out.

Check out the pads and offices of the band members and their manager Brian Epstein, where they partied, met their significant others, and did their thing.

And, of course, take a casual stroll across the iconic Abbey Road crossing near the legendary recording studio.

11. London Rock Music Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 830+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  8 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Wanna dive into London’s rock history?

From where the Rolling Stones rocked their first record at ‘Tin Pan Alley’ to the famous Abbey Road zebra crossing, this tour has got it all covered.

Take your pick between morning, afternoon, or go all-in with the full-day London Rock Music Tour.

Check out Abbey Road, swing by Apple HQ, drop by Paul’s House, Ringo’s place, and Jimmy Page’s crib, plus a bunch more.

Your rock-savvy guide will dish out insider stories about your favorite musicians while giving you the lowdown on all things music.

Best Ghost Bus Tours in London

12. spooky london ghost vintage bus tour.

⭐️  RATING:  4 out of 5 Stars, 480+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Join your spooky guide as you hit up notorious local haunts, hearing tales of restless spirits and passing by places with a dark history—St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, and the infamous Fleet Street.

As you roll through the city, keep an eye out for top attractions like Tower Bridge while your guide spills the beans on London’s haunted past.

The cherry on top?

You’ll be cruising in a retro 1960s Routemaster with a Gothic twist.

Get set for a laid-back, eerie adventure through the spookier side of London!

13. Comedy London Ghost Bus Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.3 out of 5 Stars, 1300+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Get ready to hop on the Necrobus for a ride on the creepy side of London! It’s like the city’s spooky history comes to life.

With on-board actors and tech tricks, this tour is all about giving you the heebie-jeebies while checking out London’s coolest and eeriest spots.

Picture this: a creepy conductor sharing all the ghostly deets, from haunted palaces to secret burial grounds.

The Ghost Bus Tour takes you all around town, hitting up the West End and cruising south of the river.

You’ll get the lowdown on Westminster Abbey, Fleet Street, The Tower of London, and London Bridge—all while soaking in the eerie vibes of the city’s oldest and most historic places.

Best Afternoon Tea Bus Tours in London

14. english afternoon tea bus with panoramic tour of london.

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 150+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour 30 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Ditch the crowds and hop on a double-decker bus to check out the coolest London landmarks without any obstructions.

Cruise around, see way more stuff than you would on foot, and to top it off, indulge in some classic British afternoon tea while you ride.

There’s even a bunch of menu options, so you can munch on what you love. It’s like soaking up the vibes of London while enjoying good eats and drinks on the upper deck.

Perfect for newbies trying to figure out the city!

15. Brigit’s Afternoon Tea Bus in London

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 900+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour 25 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Brigit’s is one of the most iconic afternoon tea buses in London, and you can’t go wrong with one of their afternoon tea bus tours .

In addition to the regular sightseeing tour, they also offer specialty afternoon tea London bus tours like ones for kids featuring Paddington, as well as ones during the holiday season where everything gets a good dose of Christmas as you look at the lights while enjoying tea.

They’re absolute professionals at making sure that you have the best time seeing the city with your pinkies up, and visitors to the city always rate this as one of their favorite things to do in London.

Best London Movie Bus Tours

16. magical harry potter london bus tour.

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 130+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Harry Potter fans, all aboard!

Not the Hogwarts Express, sadly, but the Magical Harry Potter London Bus tour, where you’ll zip past so many Harry Potter filming locations while on tour.

London was where many of the scenes of the “muggle” world were filmed, and you can recognize important attractions like the Millennium Bridge featuring heavily in the movie franchise as the bridge the dementors destroy in the 6th film.

But it doesn’t stop there.

From the origins of Diagon Alley to other Harry Potter filming locations throughout the city, this is the perfect Harry Potter tour in London to pair with the Harry Potter Studio Tour in Watford to make sure you’ve truly followed in the footsteps of the Boy who Lived.

17. James Bond Bus Tour of London

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 30+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Dive into the awesome world of 007 with this super cool 4-hour James Bond tour around London!

Follow the footsteps of your favorite spy as you hit up filming spots from classics like ‘GoldenEye,’ ‘The World is Not Enough,’ and ‘Die Another Day,’ as well as recent hits like ‘Spectre,’ ‘Skyfall,’ and ‘No Time to Die.’

Get the lowdown on Bond trivia, from Sean Connery to Pierce Brosnan and Daniel Craig.

Feel the spy vibes for real as you cruise past MI6, the actual spy headquarters in London.

Kick back in a comfy mini-coach with live commentary, and soak up the cinematic thrill of Bond’s adventures all over the city!

Want more London tours? Check these out!

• 15 Best London History Tours
• 5 Best London Speedboat Tours
• 5 Best Tower of London Tours
• 5 Best Westminster Tours in London
• 5 Best Winston Churchill Tours in London
• 7 Best Borough Market Tours
• 7 Best James Bond Tours
• 7 Best Black Cab Tours of London
• 11 Best Royal Tours in London for Visitors
• 11 Best London Art Tours
• 5 Best Graffiti Tours in London
• 11 Best Full Day London Tours
• 9 Best Tours of London’s East End
• 11 Best Private Tours in London
• 17 Best London Food Tours
• 17 Best London Harry Potter Tours
• 11 Best London Bus Tours
• 15 Best London Pub Crawl Tours
• 9 Best Street Art Tours in London
• 9 Best London Literary Tours for Bookworms
• 11 Best Jack the Ripper Tours in London
• 11 Best London Bike Tours
• 11 Best Beatles Tours in London
• 11 Best London Museum Tours
• 21 Best London Walking Tours
• 11 Best London Rock N Roll Tours
• 7 Best Changing of the Guard Tours in London
• 19 Unique London Tours
• 5 Best Open Top Bus Tours in London
• 7 Best London Helicopter Tours

Heading to London? Want the best tips?

Check out my Ultimate Guide to London for Visitors. Using text, images and video, this guide is packed full of tips, tricks, safety advice, knowledge on how to get around and what to do, and more!

Moving to the UK or already an Expat?

Grab my book which covers moving to the UK, struggles I faced and that you might face too, and uplifting advice to help you along the way! Available in hard copy and on Kindle.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best of London for free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy London without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Attractions
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

The 9 best bus tours in London from 007 to fine dining

Anyone call for a bright red double-decker? See the capital in all its glory on one of these brilliant London bus tours

Whether you’re after a whirlwind tour of London’s attractions  for the first time or you want a little refresher of your favourite spots in London, we’ve rounded up the best London bus tours for you to take your pick. Our choice selection includes open-top classics that enable you to tick off your favourite landmarks one by one and some sinister tours that take place after dark... And don’t worry Harry Potter fans – we’ve included a London bus tour that takes in all the bespectacled boy wizard’s trips around the capital, from King’s Cross to Number 12 Grimmauld Place. 

Time Out tip:  Wherever you're headed while you're visiting London always have two things to hand: a brolly and Citymapper. 

Want more? 🚲Try a London bike tour instead 💂‍♀️Check out  the best London tours   🛏Stay in the best Airbnbs in London

This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here .

An email you’ll actually love

Best London bus tours

1.  The Beatles evening tour

Trace the years from 1962 to 1970, when Beatlemania was at its peak, as you visit more than 35 Beatles-related landmarks on this evening tour of central London. You’ll also see some of the sites surrounding the band members’ individual music careers, while your expert local guide entertains you with Beatles history through music and film footage - don't worry, there are plenty of photo stops.

Time Out tip: If you're a Beatles fan, you might also enjoy Music of The Mind, an exhibition exploring the works of artist and activist Yoko Ono. It runs until 1st September. 

2.  Ghost bus tour

Set aside an hour of your time to get well and truly spooked. On this ghost bus tour you’ll cruise the city’s historic streets in an old Routemaster (painted black, of course), learning all about London’s gruesome past with a hefty helping on chilling tales and the most haunted sites in the capital.

Time Out tip: For even more gore, why not check out the Sweeny Todd experience at the London Dungeon ?

3.  Big Bus London hop-on hop-off tour

Hop on and off at London's best landmarks and attractions on this classic open-top tour bus. Soak up the sights with over 40 stops around the capital, listen to captivating commentary about your surroundings and experience it all at your own pace.

Time Out tip: With a city this widespread, you'll need some flexibility. For that, you can grab a ticket valid for up to three days, that way you can take your time getting to know London.

4.  Harry Potter bus tour

We may all be muggles, but London contains a wealth of fun Harry Potter experiences that are more than magical. Hop onboard this tour and you’ll journey from Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross to Number 12 Grimmauld Place – a trip that takes three hours (aka just enough time to get  really  into the Potterverse). You’ll get to learn about locations that inspired JK Rowling’s awesome books and discover the tales behind some of wizarding wonders. And the best thing? You’ll also be shown some of the most famous Harry Potter film locations.

Time Out tip: Once you head back to Kings Cross, you grab a slice and enjoy the sun (providing there is any) at Happy Face Pizza. It's Neapolitan style, so you know it's good. 

5.  James Bond bus tour

Sure, James Bond drives fancy cars, like a classic Aston Martin, but can he fit all his mates in there for a jolly around London? Not likely. Especially if you want to throw a guide in for good measure, too. Luckily, you can fit all those people and more on this Bond bus tour. Delve into 007’s world of espionage and late-night wanderings to discover filming locations as well as sites frequented by Ian Fleming.

Time Out tip: Want even more British novelty? Just a 14-minute tube stop away you'll find Rules, London's oldest restaurant serving traditional British fare. It's pretty fancy, so Bond would approve.

6.  London at night tour

Giving lucky riders a taste of the lit-up London skyline, this 1.5-hour night tour hits all of the top tourist spots. Naturally, you’ll be travelling on-board a classic double-decker, and it’s the perfect way get views of famous attractions, including Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and the London Eye after hours. Plus, learn fascinating facts about these legendary landmarks from your expert guide and hear insider tips on exciting places to visit in the capital at night.

Time Out tip : If you're looking for more lates the National Gallery is open until 9 pm every Friday, while Sir John Soane's Museum hosts a themed late each month.

7.  Open-top tour on a vintage bus

A vintage double-decker bus has been transformed into an open-top sightseeing experience. From Buckingham Palace to the Tower of London via the Houses of Parliament, The Shard and St Paul’s Cathedral, see London without any of those annoying panes of glass in the way. Aboard the bus, you'll also have screens with historical footage of London through the decades. 

Time Out tip: If you're feeling peckish after the tour, head to the vibrant, colourful Carnaby Street (a 15-minute stroll) for lots of great food options. 

8.  Bustronome London

A bus tour for gourmands. The Bustronome team combine fine views with fine dining, across a series of lunch, afternoon tea and dinner services. As you pass a sequence of landmarks including Nelson’s Column, the Houses of Parliament, St Paul’s and the Tower of London, you’ll also enjoy a seasonal menu with an optional paired wine. Bon appetit!

Time Out tip: While this tour is on the pricier end of the scale, it makes a great gift. Not to mention you get to site-see while you dine.

9.  Afternoon Tea Bus London Tour

Fancy a quintessentially British afternoon tea on a classic London bus? Get involved on one of Golden Tours' afternoon tea buses  – as you sit down to a brew and a spread of sandwiches, cakes and pastries, you’ll be driven past Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, St James’s Park, Hyde Park, the Royal Albert Hall and all the usual suspects. Splendid!

Time Out tip: This tour is an excellent choice if you're looking for wholesome hen-do ideas. 

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Claim your listing
• Time Out Offers FAQ
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

Time Out products

• Time Out Offers
• Time Out Worldwide

Best Sightseeing Bus Tours in London Compared

After many years organising our friends’ and relatives’ trips to London, one of the questions we have answered many times is: “which one of the different London bus tours is the best” and if they are worth the money.

First of all, I have to say that I highly recommend buying tickets for one of the London sightseeing tours, especially if it’s your first trip to the British capital. It is an easy way to get around the city; making sure you see London’s most important landmarks .

The open-top buses add something special to the experience of visiting London. You still get a feeling of the city, and it’s the best way to get pictures of London’s iconic buildings and attractions. In this article, we will show you the routes that follow all the different London sightseeing bus tours.

London Bus Tours Deals

GET 10% OFF AT BIG BUS TOURS

Another good point to remember is that you can sometimes buy combined tickets for a sightseeing bus tour in London + one of London’s most important attractions, and this is one of the best ways to get more for your money. Most of the  London Attraction Passes include one of the hop-on, hop-off sightseeing bus tours in London.

Sightseeing Bus Tours in London Compared

There are currently 4 main bus companies that offer hop-on hop-off bus tours in London: Big Bus Tours , TOOT Bus , Golden Tours and City Sightseeing .

Sightseeing Bus Tours in London: What’s included

• FREE RIVER CRUISE : One of the things I would recommend doing when you visit London, so definitely important to keep in mind if you can get it included with your sightseeing bus tour tickets.
• GUIDED WALKING TOUR
• RECORDED / LIVE COMMENTARY (recorded commentary available in different languages)
• FREE HEADPHONES
• FREE PONCHO if it rains

The timetables are usually quite similar, normally starting between 8.00 am and 9.00 am and ending at around 5.30 pm or 6.00 pm.

PLAN TRIP TOP TIP : When buying tickets for the different sightseeing bus tours in London, keep in mind that all companies will have different prices depending on whether you buy the tickets online or if you do it on the day in the street or at one of the stops. Online tickets usually are 10 or 15% cheaper, and you don´t usually have to choose a specific day which makes it more accessible.

Sightseeing Bus Tours in London: Price Comparison

We have updated the fares below in February 2023, with the prices from each bus tour provider in London as they appear on their official websites. These prices are for ONLINE TICKETS, which are normally around 10% cheaper than on-street tickets.

* Children under 5 do not need a ticket. Children aged 5 to 15 need a child ticket. A Family ticket is valid for 2 adults + 2 children (aged 5 – 15).

London bus tour deals : Remember that you can use our promo code “ PLANTRIP10 ” to get an additional 10% discount if you buy tickets from Big Bus Official Website . 

Big Bus Tours

Big Bus Tours started touring the streets of London more than 25 years ago, with only 2 buses in London. Nowadays, they are one of the biggest sightseeing bus tours companies in the world, and currently have more than 400 sightseeing buses in more than 26 cities. So, with all this experience, it’s no surprise that Big Bus Tours is one of the most important sightseeing bus tour companies in London.

Their buses are burgundy and cream and say BIG BUS LONDON on the side, so they are easily recognisable. The Big Bus Tours Sightseeing hop on hop off-bus tour is also included in the London Pass .

Their buses have free Wi-Fi on board, and most have USB chargers if you wish to charge your mobile phone during the tour.

Available routes : Big Bus Tours has three different sightseeing day bus routes and one Night Tour.

• The Classic Tour (Red Route):  The classic tour is one of the main routes that will take you through London’s most important landmarks, such as Big Ben, the London Eye, Westminster Abbey, Marble Arch, Oxford Street, and Tower of London, Tower Bridge…
• The Blue Route: The blue route is one of the main routes that will take you through London’s most important landmarks, such as Big Ben, the London Eye, Westminster Abbey, Marble Arch, Oxford Street, Tower of London, Tower Bridge…
• The Green Link: Connects Trafalgar Square with the British Museum and King’s Cross – St Pancras

⇒ See Big Bus London Route Map

Number of stops:  Big Bus Tours has more than 50 stops across their 3 different day bus routes into account. You can hop on and hop off at every one of these stops.

Included with your ticket:  Every ticket includes a free river cruise, except the Night Tour Ticket. The Classic ticket includes a one way ticket for the river cruise. Premium and Deluxe tickets include a hop-on hop-off river cruise, from Westminster to Greenwich, which is perfect for exploring Greenwich . The classic, premium and deluxe tickets also include a free walking tour.

Types of tickets:  There are tickets for adults, children (5 – 15 years old) and family tickets  (2 adults + 2 children). Children under 5 free. And there are 3 types of tickets:

• Classic: 1 day (this ticket is valid for one calendar day, not 24 hours). This ticket includes a one-way river cruise along the Thames from Westminster Pier (near Big Ben) to the Tower of London, or vice versa. This ticket also includes a free guided walking tour.
• Premium: 2 days (this ticket is valid for two calendar days, not 48 hours). This ticket includes a hop-on hop-off river cruise along the Thames, with stops at Westminster Pier, the Tower of London and Greenwich. This ticket also includes a free guided walking tour and the Night Tour.
• Deluxe: 3 days (this ticket is valid for three calendar days, not 72 hours). This ticket includes a hop-on hop-off river cruise along the Thames, with stops at Westminster Pier, the Tower of London and Greenwich. This ticket also includes a free guided walking tour and the Night Tour.
• Night tour only: This ticket is valid for one-night tour only, which isn’t a hop on hop off bus tour. This ticket does not include the river cruise or the free guided walking tour. This night tour is available during the summer months only.

Validity of tickets: Tickets online are 10% cheaper than buying them on the street. When you buy tickets online they will be valid for 6 months,  so you don’t need to choose a specific day for your tour.

Combo tickets: You can also buy combined tickets for the Big Bus Tours HO-HO Sightseeing Bus Tour in London with tickets to one of London’s Top Attractions. This is a great way of saving money. You can find out more about this here: Big Bus Tours London Detailed Information .

Promo Code: Use our exclusive promo code “PLANTRIP10” when you buy your tickets online to get an extra 10% discount, so this is a 20% discount when compared to on-street prices.

It will be easy for you to recognize their buses in London, as they usually have a UK flag on the side of the bus.

Available routes :  The Original Tour has five different bus routes in London:

• Original Tour (Yellow Route): This is the main route which will take you through London´s most important landmarks, including Hyde Park, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, London Eye, Tower Bridge, Tower of London, etc.
• Royal Borough Tour (Blue Route): The blue route covers the district of Kensington, where you’ll find some of London’s most famous museums as well as the well-known department stores Harrods and Harvey Nichols.
• British Museum Tour (Orange Route): This route will take you through London’s famous West End, including Chinatown all the way to the British Museum and King’s Cross.
• Capital Connector (Black Route): From Marble Arch to Madame Tussauds and Regent’s Park.
• Capital Connector (Purple Route): From Marble Arch to Notting Hill and Bayswater. Useful if your hotel is in this area of London.

⇒ See The TOOT Bus London Route Map

Number of stops: The Original Tour has more than 70 stops when you take their different bus routes into account. You can hop on and hop off at every one of these stops.

Included with your ticket: Tickets include a free river cruise + 3 walking tours (including a Changing of the Guard walking tour) except the City Sampler Ticket.

Available tickets:  There are tickets for adults, children (5 – 15 years old) and family tickets  (2 adults + 2 children). Children under 5 free. And there are 3 types of tickets:

• City Sampler: This ticket is valid for the hop-on hop-off bus tour for one day, not 24 hours, and it doesn’t include the free river cruise or the free guided walks.
• 24 hours: This ticket is valid for 24 hours and includes a free hop-on hop off river cruise between Westminster Pier (near Big Ben) and Tower Pier (near the Tower of London) and free guided walks.
• 48 hours: This ticket is valid for 48 hours and it includes a free hop-on hop off river cruise between Westminster Pier (near Big Ben), and Tower Pier (near the Tower of London), plus   an extension to Greenwich and free guided walks.
• 72 hours:  This ticket is valid for 72 hours, including a hop on hop off free river cruise between Westminster Pier (near Big Ben), and Tower Pier (near the Tower of London), plus   an extension to Greenwich, valid for 72 hours and free guided walks.

Golden Tours

Available routes : There are three different sightseeing bus routes in London:

• The Essential Tour (Blue route): This route covers all the main sights in central London and it includes live commentary in English.
• The Classic Tour (Red route): This route covers all the main sights in central London and London’s Museum Quarter in Kensington.
• The Grand Tour (Orange route): This route will mainly take you to Madame Tussauds and King’s Cross.
• The Pick-Up/Drop-Off Route (Yellow route): This route travels from the popular hotel districts to Central London in the mornings.

⇒ Golden Tours Route Map

Number of stops: Over 60 stops on 3 different bus routes. You can hop on and hop off at every one of these stops.

Available tickets:  There are tickets for adults, children (5 – 15 years old) and family tickets  (2 adults + 2 children). Children under 5 free. And there are 3 types of tickets:

• London Introduction: 3-hour open-top sightseeing bus tour of London’s most remarkable landmarks. This is not a hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour, and it does not include the free river cruise or free guided walking tours.
• One Day: Ticket valid for one calendar day to use the Hop on Hop off sightseeing bus tour. This ticket does not include a free river cruise or guided walking tours.
• 24 hours: Ticket valid for 24 hours. This ticket includes a free hop-on hop-off river cruise, from Westminster pier (near Big Ben) to St Katharine’s pier (near the Tower of London) and a free walking tour.
• 48 hours:  Ticket valid for 48 hours. This ticket includes a free hop-on hop-off river cruise, from Westminster pier (near Big Ben) to St Katharine’s pier (near the Tower of London) and free walking tours.

What else is included with the tickets: Free Hop on hop off River Cruise + voucher valid for two days for one of their guided walking tours. The walking tours available are The Beatles walking tour or Royal Walking tour.

City Sightseeing London

City Sightseeing has also been operating in London for years, but their service is now supplied by TOOT Bus, so their routes are the same.

Their buses are very colourful, but they are mainly red with colourful pictures of London landmarks, making them very easy to identify.

One of the main differences when we compare City Sightseeing to other sightseeing bus tours in London, is that some of their buses have a removable cover for their upper deck, which can be put on to cover the bus if it´s raining.

Available routes :  City Sightseeing buses follow the same routes as TOOT Bus.

• Yellow Route: This is the main route which will take you through London´s most important landmarks, including Hyde Park, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, London Eye, Tower Bridge, Tower of London, etc.

⇒ See City Sightseeing London Route Map

Number of stops: City Sightseeing has more than 70 stops when you take their 3 different bus routes into account. You can hop on and hop off at every one of these stops.

Available tickets: There are tickets for adults, children (5 – 15 years old) and family tickets  (2 adults + 2 children). Children under 5 free. And there are 2 types of tickets:

• 24 hours: This ticket gives you 24 hour access to any of the hop on hop off sightseeing routes in London + a 24 hour access the the free hop on hop off river cruise.
• 48 hours:  This ticket gives you 48 hour access to any of the hop on hop off sightseeing routes in London + 48 hour access the the free hop on hop off river cruise.

What else is included with the tickets:   Free River Cruise + 3 free walking guided tours (changing of the guard; Jack the ripper; rock ‘n’ roll walking tour)

Comparison Sightseeing Bus Tours in London: Summary

Are sightseeing bus tours in london worth it.

If it´s your first time in London I personally think that it´s definitely worth thinking about going on one of the sightseeing bus tours available. It´s definitely the easy way to see London´s most important attractions and you also have the opportunity of hopping on and off at different stops during the day.

As there are different companies that offer this service, we have done all the hard work for you here. Here you will find a brief explanation of what each one of the different companies that offer hop on hop off sightseeing bus tours in London includes in their ticket and we have also compared their fares for you.

There are 4 main companies that operate open top hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tours in London, and we are going to compare what they each offer as well as their prices in this article, hopefully allowing you to make an informed decision if you decide to buy tickets for one of the sightseeing bus tours in London.

Other Bus Tours in London

⇒ Afternoon Tea Vintage Bus Tour

⇒ Vintage Bus Ghost Tour

Related Posts

Changing of the guard in london: dates 2024, the best black taxi tours in london, best musicals in london in 2024, thames river cruises in london: options, offers and available routes.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me via e-mail if anyone answers my comment.

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

• United Kingdom

14 Best Bus Tours in London for a Panoramic View of the City

• 0 Pinterest

Those who are looking for some guidance on the best bus tours in London , this article has got you covered! Discover the incredible landmarks of  London from Palaces, shopping streets, museums, churches, parks to bridges!

Riding along on top of a double decker bus has to be one of the essential things to do in London for any visitor (or indeed local) looking to get a deeper insight into the rich history of the different London neighborhoods and stories behind the monuments!

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• bus tours in London

1 – London: Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing-Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 ( 2856 reviews )

“Great tour, very nice and helpful people. You’ll pass all the sights, get off where you want and get on again when you’re done. You will receive a map on the bus and there are earphones available to listen to the recorded information that is available on the bus at each attraction.” Simone, Getyourguide

Experience the best of  City Sightseeing UK and see the major streets, landmarks and squares of London during a classic double decker bus ride! A ride on one of the best hop on hop off bus tours in London is definitely one of the essential activities to do when visiting the capital!

Stop off and explore different attractions and neighborhoods during your bus journey and enjoy the flexibility of taking your sightseeing at your own pace! Enjoy the panoramic views as you cruise across Westminster Bridge, you gaze up at the iconic Big Ben and you zoom past Hyde Park!

A fun day out discovering the main sights of London from the comfortable elevated position of our double decker. It was good to get free earphones to listen along to historic facts and curiosities about the various landmarks on the bus commentary and receive an included map to get our bearings!

• See price & reviews

2 – London: Guided Harry Potter Locations Sightseeing Bus Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 ( 439 reviews )

“Rory was amazing, he provided a lot of interesting facts not only from Harry Potter films but also from other movies and cultural facts. He made this tour very fun” Adriana, Getyourguide

Harry Potter fans won’t want to miss this  Brit Movie Tours spellbindingly magical Potter bus tour to visit a whole handful of London filming locations and places that inspired author J.K Rowling!

Get off the bus to take photos of some top locations up close such as the world famous Platform 9 ¾ at King’s Cross Station. Discover London locations that inspired Gringotts Bank, the Leaky Cauldron Pub and 12 Grimmauld Place!

Featuring a knowledgable and entertaining guide and a modern air-conditioned mini van, this definitely makes the shortlist as one of the best bus tours in London!

Funny and informative guide with a great range of Potter trivia, behind the scenes stories and interesting anecdotes. You get to see more of the sights than you would during a traditional walking tour. Good amount of free time at the various stops to stretch the legs and take photos!

• Harry Potter tours in London

3 – Luxury 6 Course Bus Dining Experience Through London

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 134 reviews )

“Everything was absolutely perfect. The food was amazing and the crew so sweet. We went with friends and had a really special evening.” Rebecca, Viator

Treat yourself to a luxurious gourmet dining experience with a twist- a sightseeing bus trip around central London! With Bustronome London you can enjoy an unforgettable evening as you tuck into a refined 6-course meal whilst gazing at fabulous London landmarks.

Follow along to an interesting audio commentary to brush up on your historical and cultural London facts! Highlights including passing by the Royal Courts of Justice, London Bridge, the Shard, the Houses of Parliament and the bustling Piccadilly Square!

For those looking for an extra indulgence, opt for the wine pairing menu to savor some outstanding flavor combinations!

A very romantic choice for foodies looking to share a special moment! See the lights of London change from dusk to night and finish up seeing all the streets of London illuminated! The service was exceptional and the dishes were thoughtfully presented.

• dining experiences in London

4 – London: Comedy Horror Ghost Tour on a Bus

Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 ( 1568 reviews )

“The tour guide really did a great job. It was very funny. We had a lot of fun. The route was also very well chosen, we passed sights and learned a lot about dark London. We can definitely recommend it” Jasmin, Getyourguide

For those who enjoy a chilling ghost story, join The Ghost Bus Tours on their spooky route around Londons main landmarks! Get ready for a creepy bus conductor and on-board actors who will bring this supernatural theatrical journey to life!

Learn about the ghoulish tales surrounding Westminster Abbey such as the Unknown Monk spectral figure lurking in the cloisters or pass by the Tower of London, famed to be one of the most haunted buildings in the whole of Britain where many former prisoners faced execution or lay rotting in the dungeons!

Feel the goosebumps developing as you discover a different side of London by night!

A memorable evening learning about the dark historic tales of London and iconic villainous figures such as Jack the Ripper. Good audience interaction with the guide and lots of entertaining jokes to keep the group engaged. The kids loved the atmospheric double decker bus!

• ghost tours in London

5 – London Christmas Lights Tour on Open-Top Bus

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 59 reviews )

“Absolutely phenomenal experience! We got there early to ensure we had a spot at the top of the bus to see the lights! Our guide and driver were amazing! The lights were stunning and everyone that was working was amazing!! Highly recommend this tour!” Heather, Viator

The Big Bus London Christmas lights extravaganza is one of the best bus tours in London for those who are in the mood for getting festive and witnessing all the twinkling and illuminated light decorations adorning major sites throughout the capital!

From the elevated position of a double decker, gaze down at the window displays of the London department stores as you sail down the bustling London shopping streets!

Look out for the shining bright lights of the London Eye, the impressive glow of the Houses of Parliament and the mighty Nelson’s Column and Lion statues of Trafalgar Square!

A magical tour of the illuminated city by night. Managed to get some atmospheric photos of the street decorations and beautiful Christmas trees. The guide kept us entertained during the ride with a range of historical and cultural facts about London. Definitely glad we brought hats and scarves for sitting up on deck.

• christmas lights bus tours in London

6 – London by Night Sightseeing Open Top Bus Tour with Audio Guide

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 457 reviews )

“The guide was amazing! The tour was a lot of fun. Even though traffic was really slow- the guide never ran out of interesting facts!” Jaycey, Viator

Join Golden tours to discover London’s top sights at night time from the comfort of a double decker bus! This informative bus journey around London’s historic gems is definitely one of the  best things to do in London at night . Put your feet up, relax, and enjoy some spectacular panoramas!

Pass by the famous Buckingham Palace (the official residence of the British monarch) and the majestically illuminated Tower Bridge, a triumph of Victorian engineering! Other highlights include cruising through the bustling Piccadilly Circus with its bright electronic billboards and neon advertisements and the Tower of London (home to the crown jewels!)

The guide brought the tour to life with a wide array of detailed historical curiosities and insights into London culture! Despite the traffic, we were kept fully entertained as I was hoping the tour would last longer! London is magical at night and it was a great introduction to the city on the first night of our trip!

• night bus tours in London

7 – Golden Tours: Afternoon Tea Bus with a Glass of Prosecco

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 762 reviews )

“the tour & afternoon was brilliant. Took a friend with me who had never seen the sights of London & she was thrilled with it all plus a beautiful afternoon tea.” Kathryn, Getyourguide

If you are looking to enjoy the delights of a quintessentially British afternoon tea, this is one of best bus tours in London! Join Golden tours as you take a panoramic tour around central London whilst tucking into some refined finger sandwiches, slices of cake and freshly baked scones and jam.

Add that element of finesse by accompanying your afternoon tea with a glass of Prosecco! The tour will pass by iconic London sights such as the magnificent St Pauls Cathedral, the famous London bridge and the historic Tower of London.

A lovely afternoon spent sipping tea and looking out of the bus windows at the sights of London. The servers were very helpful and made it an enjoyable experience. There was certainly a fun atmosphere on the bus.

8 – Brigit’s Afternoon Tea Bus in London

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 1276 reviews )

“Fabulous time on the bus. It was a lot of fun. The food was delicious with a wonderful assortment of savoury snacks and amazing cakes.” Tricia, Viator

Hop onboard Brigit’s Bakery bus for a classic British afternoon tea! Cruise by the impressive window displays of Harrods department stores and look out the window to spot the iconic Big Ben!

Expect plenty of sandwiches and cakes to snack on during the tour along with an audio commentary introducing the sights and a few background facts, providing an excellent overview of central London.

Gaze out across the vast Hyde Park and people-watch as the bus cruises along down the fancy streets of Mayfair! Look out for the impressive Nelson’s Column at Trafalgar Square and the colossal National Gallery!

A wide range of savory and sweet afternoon tea treats. The staff were friendly and the background music provided a convivial and relaxed ambiance. The audio commentary helped to orientate us as we navigated our way around the different sights. Highly recommended!

• Afternoon Tea Experiences in London

9 – London by Night Sightseeing Tour – Open top bus

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 771 reviews )

“We had an enjoyable evening on this tour. Our guide was funny and informative. It was a nice way to get an overview of the city. It was beautiful seeing everything lit up at night.” Lorraine, Viator

Travel around London by night in a double decker open top bus with Evan Evans tours . Discover the areas of Westminster and Knightsbridge and get to see some of London’s iconic landmarks illuminated such as the London Eye, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey! Avoid day time traffic jams and take in the magical glow of the city lights after dark!

Admire the glittering lights of boats along the river Thames and the impressive Tower Bridge from the elevated position of the bus deck! Learn more about these signifiant sights thanks to a live guide who will talk you through a bit of history and important background facts!

A wonderful tour of London by night in the company of a knowledgable and comical guide. It was very special to see many of the main London attractions lit up and we managed to get some atmospheric photos. The bus tour definitely covered a lot of ground and different London neighborhoods.

10 – Golden Tours: London Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.4/5 ( 1947 reviews )

“It was great experience and interesting routes. We have completed all of them and also it can be used as transport within the city” Lev, Headout

Embark on a London sightseeing odyssey with  Golden Tours where you can opt for a day pass, a 48 hour or a 72 hour ticket depending on the length of your stay in London. Explore 4 different routes through different parts of the city with a total of 70 stops, learning more about the history thanks to a live guide or an engaging audio commentary.

Admire views of the splendid  River Thames and breathe in the crisp London morning air! This tour is perfect for those who don’t have a good grasp of English because the audio guides comes in 12 different languages. Make the most of the free wifi onboard to keep upto date as you cruise around the city in comfort!

A great way to cover large areas of London for those who want to go at their own pace and stop off en route to visit a handful of attractions. Booking is easy and quick. The live guide was interesting and informative and there was even a 3D treasure hunt game available for kids.

11 – James Bond Bus Tour of London

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 47 reviews )

“Ian was great and funny. He gave us a lot of information and “insights” from movies. The tour has a good dynamic and duable with kids.” Simona, Viator

Enter into the glamorous world of British agent Bond on the Brit Movie Tours  007 bus adventure! Get ready for lots of Bond related trivia, facts about the books and the chance to see many of the London filming locations featured in the films!

Pass by the MI6 headquarters and the Vauxhall Bridge along with plenty of other Bond related hidden places whilst listening to the entertaining commentary of your passionate 007 guide! Check out the river Thames that featured in so many Bond movies such as ‘Die another Day’ and ‘Skyfall.’

The tour caters to both adults and children, making it suitable for all ages!

A fun and smooth day out discovering the different sites of London that we could recognize in the Bond films! Lots of fun facts about the various Bond actors that kept us full engaged throughout the tour! Great dynamic pace but we didn’t feel like we were being rushed at all.

• James Bond Tours in London

12 – Big Bus tour of London

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 2 reviews )

Hop onboard the double deck bus of  Big Bus tours for a comprehensive overview of London’s major historic and iconic landmarks! Choose from three different bus routes and pass by the glorious  St Paul’s Cathedral , designed by the celebrated Sir Christopher Wren after the Great Fire of London in 1666 or take photos of the eerie Tower of London guarded by the traditional beefeaters!

Catch a glimpse of the majestic  London Eye soaring above the river Thames as you make your way through the capital! Thanks to a one, two or three day pass you can take the tour at your own pace and stop off at as many sites as you desire along the way. Every ticket also includes a free river cruise so you can see the bridges and architecture from another perspective!

Thanks to the Big Bus tour we really feel that we got a great overview of Londons highlights. The onboard commentary was insightful and entertaining and we loved stopping off at Oxford Street for a spot of shopping and Kensington Gardens for a tranquil walk around the gardens and palace. A great sightseeing option with a thrown in river cruise manages to tick all the boxes.

13 – Tootbus Hop On Hop Off Bus Pass in London

Rating: ⭐️ 4.4/5 ( 171 reviews )

“A great way to see all the sights. Regular buses serviced all the popular destinations and more. Hopping on and off was easy and the best way to get as many attractions done as possible.” Anonymous, Klook

Spend the day exploring over 80 different stops on a wide variety of sightseeing bus routes offered by Tootbus . Thanks to the conveniently flexible ticket, you can hop off the bus to visit your preferred landmarks and then join the next bus to continue on your ride.

The routes cover all the essential London attractions such as the triumphal Marble Arch located on the edge of Hyde Park and the magnificent Westminster Bridge (the oldest surviving bridge across the River Thames in central London!)

Other highlights include the bright neon lights of Piccadilly, the fancy department stores of Knightsbridge, the iconic Big Ben and the majestic Houses of Parliament.

The buses were regular so there wasn’t much waiting around time. It was useful to follow all the routes of the Tootbus buses through the app. The tour was excellent for kids because on the main Yellow Route there is a specially designed children’s audio available in both English and French.

14 – BONUS TIP: NEW COMBO TOUR 48/72-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Tour of London + London Eye Tickets

Hop on a flexible bus tour with a live English guide and an audio commentary available in 11 different languages! Explore 4 different bus routes with 60 different potential stops! Whether you fancy seeing the wax sculptures at Madame Tussauds, taking a picnic in Regents Park or visiting the historic pubs of Fleet Street this bus has stops throughout the city!

Bonus Tip: If you are looking to visit more attractions yet are keen to save money, combo tours are a great option! Combine a stunning Thames River Cruise or take an unforgettable ride on the London Eye  for some breathtaking 360 degree views! Reach heights of 135 meters and snap some incredible city skyline shots.

Definitely glad we got a combo ticket to include a trip up the London Eye! It was amazing to get a birds-eye view of Buckingham Palace, St. Pauls and the Houses of Parliament. Later during the day we passed by many of these sites in the bus and could brush up on the historical context.

How to book a bus tour in London?

We hope this article has inspired you to hop on board a bus tour to get a real overview of the main London sites! There are lots of companies offering London bus tour experiences along with many travel websites selling these tours online. Many sites offer changing discounts, so prices may vary from one website to another!

In order to ensure that you grab the best deal available, use the Tourscanner search engine to compare the various offers, check out the reviews and seize the best prices!

• compare bus tours in London

This website uses cookies to improve your browsing experience and analyze the use of the website. Learn More

Best London Sightseeing Bus Tours

This post provides an overview of the various types of bus tours you can take in London, including our free, self-guided options and our almost free GPS-enabled audio tour .

In addition to covering the differences between these services, we will also include details about ticket prices, tour length, availability, and more.

• Unique Specialty Tours
• Night Bus Tours
• Deals and Discounts
• Free Bus Tours
• London Hop-On-Hop-Off Tours
• Day Trips from London

UNIQUE BUS TOUR EXPERIENCES

The following section will include some of the most interesting and entertaining bus tours available in London, from the supernatural to the tasty and beyond!

In addition to covering details such as ticket prices, we will also provide information about availability, tour durations, and what you can expect to see on each outing.

Harry Potter Bus Tour 

This 2 ½ to 3-hour tour features many of the filming locations and inspirations from all 8 movies in the series.

Some of the stops include Kings Cross Station, 12 Grimmauld Place, and the sites used for the Leaky Cauldron.

There is also an opportunity at the end of the tour to buy Harry Potter merchandise.

NOTE: We also offer a pay-what-you-wish Harry Potter walking tour as well as a GPS-enabled audio tour of Harry Potter sights.

Availability:  

• Jan – Dec: Saturdays at 2 pm
• School Holidays and Mar-Oct: Wednesdays at 2 pm
• School Holidays and Jul-Aug: Thursdays at 2 pm
• School Holidays and Jul-Aug: Fridays at 2 pm

Ticket Prices: £30 – Adult | £21 – Child (under 16)

• Purchase tickets or learn more .

Warner Bros. Studio Tour: The Making of Harry Potter 

There are several tour operators that offer packages that include your ticket to the studio with timed entry and also transportation from London by coach or train.

Typically, these tours cost approximately £80 - £100 per person (less for children).

Some of these companies play Harry Potter movies on the bus ride to warm you up for your studio visit.

For the purposes of this post, we’ll focus on one especially popular option from Premium Tours.

For additional options, make sure to read our post covering Harry Potter day trips from London .

This activity is an absolute must for die-hard fans of the franchise.

Included in the price is admission with timed entry, a dedicated studio tour guide, headsets when appropriate, transportation to and from the meeting point in Central London, and one butterbeer per guest.

It’s best to book a month in advance as this tour sells out.

When: check their calendar for availability

Ticket Prices:

• £94 – Adult (age 16+)
• £89 – Child (age 5-15)
• £30 – Infant (age 3-4)
• Free – 2 and under

Jack the Ripper and Sherlock Holmes Bus Tour

As the name indicates, this tour focuses on the true story of Jack the Ripper and the fictional tale of Sherlock Holmes.

In addition to covering these topics, they also provide information about subjects such as the Elephant Man and Smithfield Market.

This spooky tour takes place after dark, ensuring the perfect atmosphere to hear all about some of the most notorious crimes and disturbing legends in London's history.

• Price: £42/Adults | £39/Students & Seniors
• Availability: Daily at 7 pm
• Duration: 3 hours

Reviews for this service are pretty good with an overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars ( read reviews here ).

Customers indicate that their tour guides (live guides) are very friendly and knowledgeable, providing a lot of interesting information about Jack the Ripper.

Sadly, some guests were a bit disappointed that there weren't more details about Sherlock Holmes.

That being said, a majority of people indicate that they had a lot of fun on this trip around London.

Beatles and Rock Tour of London

This is a 2 ½ hour mini-coach tour that will explore the Beatles’ London, including Abbey Road and other rock landmarks related to icons such as Freddie Mercury, David Bowie, Jimi Hendrix, the Kinks, Pink Floyd, and more.

With a 4.7 out of 5 rating on Get Your Guide ( read reviews here ), it’s safe to say this is a pretty popular and reliable tour.

• £44/Adult (17+) | £37/child (3-16)
• Most days at 6 pm (18:00)

London Duck Tours

NOTE: London Ducks have suspended services as of September 1, 2017. There is no expected date to restart service at this time.

A whirlwind journey through London in a Second World War amphibious vehicle!

The tours run through London giving visitors fun facts and stories about the capital before finishing by splashing down into the river Thames for a boat ride – all in the same vehicle!

BB’s Bakery Bus Afternoon Tour

Afternoon tea with a twist or a sightseeing bus tour with a twist! Either way, you look at it, this is one tasty tour!

Full afternoon tea is served aboard a double-decker bus that travels through Central London, showcasing London’s famous sights as guests indulge in sweet treats and teas. 

Although the theme of this tour may seem strange to foreigners, the 4 ½ star rating this company has received on TripAdvisor indicates that it’s a pretty phenomenal service.

There are a handful of negative reviews, but an overwhelming majority of guests report that this is a lovely trip that includes delicious food.

Some reviewers even went so far as to describe the tour as a great experience, indicating that it was a wonderful combination of English tradition and sightseeing.

• Lower Deck seats start at £45/Adults and £35/Kids (5-11)
• Higher Prices depend on seats with better views, Upper Deck, etc.
• 12:30 pm and 15:00 (3 pm)
• 12:00 pm, 14:30 (2:30 pm) & 17:00 (5 pm)
• Tours last approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

LONDON BY NIGHT BUS TOURS

Many of the above-mentioned tour companies offer night tours, like  Big Bus Tours . Here is a list of a few more.

Be sure to also check out our post on night tours of London for walking, bike, boat, and Segway tours.

There is also a Jack the Ripper and Sherlock Holmes night tour by bus.

Ghost Bus Tours

A spooky sightseeing tour that takes place on a black double-decker bus.

The commentary is creepy but also amusing and takes guests past some of the most famous icons in the city, exploring the dark and grisly past of this ancient city.

With an overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars  on TripAdvisor, it's safe to say that most passengers have a lot of fun on the Ghost Bus.

This company has received some negative reviews, but they don't seem to represent the typical experience.

A majority of guests report that this tour is a lot of fun and can be very spooky.

TIP: This tour is included for free with the London Sightseeing tourist discount pass .

Learn more about this and other discounts in our post about London tourist attraction discount passes .

This tour is also included with the 2-for-1 deal !

• Adult (16+) – £28
• Child (6-15) – £19
• Child under 6 – Free
• Student/Concession – £21
• Family – £61
• Sunday to Thursday – 19:30 & 21:00
• Friday – 18:00, 19:30 & 21:00
• Saturday – 18:00, 19:30, 19:45, 21:00 & 21:15
• The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Location: Northumberland Avenue, near Trafalgar Square opposite the Sherlock Holmes pub.

Commentary Type and Language: Live commentary in English.

Evening Beatles Bus Tour

This is similar to the longer specialty tour by bus during the day, in that it covers a lot of notable landmarks related to the history of these rock icons.

Enjoy a 2 hour and 15 min evening tours of of Central London in a mini-coach.

Visit 35 locations made famous by the Fab 4 including an opportunity to hop off and walk across Abbey Road!

With a 4.6 out of 5-star rating on Get Your Guide, it’s fair to say that this tour is well-reviewed ( read the reviews ). 

• Every Monday through Friday at 6 pm (March-Sept)
• £44/Adult (17+) | £37/Child (3-16)

DISCOUNTS AND DEALS

The following section will provide information about all the different ways to save money on bus tours in London.

We will include details about tourist attraction passes and other discount opportunities.

If you’re interested, we also have a detailed discount section for hop-on-hop-off bus tours as well.

Tourist Attraction Discount Passes

Most London tourist passes include a hop-on-hop-off tour, but there is currently only one pass that offers any other type of bus tour.

The London Sightseeing Pass includes the Ghost Bus Tour which covers the paranormal history behind notable landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, Downing Street, the Tower of London, and more.

This service also includes access to several day tours from London such as Stonehenge, Oxford, Canterbury, Bath, and the Cliffs of Dover.

This tourist pass allows you to pick 3, 5, 7, or 10 different attractions for one flat price.

Depending on how you use the travelcard, you could save 50% or more off general admission prices.

If you’re interested in going on a self-guided bus tour, it’s worth noting that the London Turbo Pass includes an Oyster Card which you can use for public transport.

Big Bus Tours (24-hour ticket)

• The London Pass
• London Explorer Pass
• London City Turbo Pass

Golden Tours (24-hour ticket)

For more information about these services, make sure to read our full post covering London tourist attraction passes .

London 2 For 1

If you’re planning to use the National Rail to get around, you might have the opportunity to take advantage of London’s 2-for-1 program.

This service allows you to get 2 attraction tickets for the price of 1, and it includes both hop-on-hop-off tours and specialty tours like those listed above.

Currently, the following tours are included in this deal:

• Harry Potter London Tour by Bus
• Ghost Tours of London by Bus
• London Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Tour
• Afternoon Tea Bus
• London by Night Tour

We have a post that explains how to get 2-for-1 tickets for bus tours .

And make sure to read our post about the 2-for-1 deal for more information on all attractions included in this deal.

Discount Sites

In addition to the other opportunities to save money, you can also use a site such as Groupon or Discount London .

Both of these services include various London bus tours at lower prices.

These sites often provide coupon codes that you can use to increase your discount by an extra 20% or more.

Make sure to check the top and bottom of each page for a banner with a special code to use at checkout.

FREE LONDON BUS TOUR

Why not consider taking a tour of London on a public, double-decker bus?

It's possible and we have come up with 2 of our own self-guided, hop-on-hop-off bus tours.

And one of these tours also comes in the form of a GPS-enabled audio guide tour (Listen to the sample below the video).

With a daily bus ticket of £5.25, you can spend all day hopping on and off public buses. 

TOUR: Westminster Abbey via Trafalgar Square to the City of London

Take the 26 bus from Victoria Station to St. Paul's Cathedral then change to the 15 to the Tower of London.  

Here is some of what you’ll cover on this self-guided bus tour.

• Westminster Cathedral
• Westminster Abbey
• Parliament and Big Ben
• 10 Downing Street
• Horseguards Parade
• Trafalgar Square
• Royal Courts of Justice
• Fleet Street
• Ludgate Hill
• Temple Church
• St Paul’s Cathedral
• The Bank of London
• The Tower of London

Click here for the tour .

This tour is also offered as a GPS-enabled audio commentaries tour for just £1.99.

Here is how it works.

• Purchase an audio tour.
• Get a confirmation email with .mp3, .pdf and embeddable Google Map
• Enjoy the tour(s).

The Heritage Bus route 15 and 9

Using London Buses is pretty easy. Most buses are driver-only operated, meaning you need to board at the front to show the driver your bus ticket.

  Routes 9 and 15, the traditional Routemaster buses, work differently, as you can simply board the bus, sit, and wait for the conductor to check your ticket.

Route 9 Self-Guided Tour

These older models are worth taking a ride if you get the chance.

Route 9 operates between Kensington via Hyde Park to Trafalgar Square. Route 15 operates between Tower Hill and Trafalgar Square.

With this tour, you will see many major icons such as  Trafalgar Square ,  Piccadilly Circus ,  Royal Albert Hall ,  Kensington Palace , and more. 

LONDON-HOP-ON-HOP-OFF TOURS

London hop-on-hop-off tours are a popular way to explore the city's iconic attractions.

These tours offer flexibility and convenience, allowing you to customize your sightseeing experience.

London hop-on-hop-off buses are typically designed as iconic double-decker buses, featuring an open-top deck for panoramic views and a closed lower deck for comfort, with spacious seating and large windows to enhance the sightseeing experience.

These open top bus tours provide a comprehensive way to see the city's major landmarks and attractions such as the Tower of London, London bridge, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and the London Eye.

You can explore historic sites like St. Paul's Cathedral and Westminster Abbey, immersing yourself in London's rich history.

The bus routes often include stops at famous museums, including the British Museum and the Natural History Museum.

With hop-on-hop-off flexibility, you can disembark at any stop and spend as much time as you desire before hopping back on the next bus.

Live or pre-recorded commentary on the bus provides interesting facts and insights about the attractions and the city's history.

To know in detail about these tours, visit our post on London Hop-On Hop-Off bus Tours .

RELATED POSTS

• Things to Do in London
• Free London Walking Tours

Choose a Destination... I want them all PLUS general travel tips. Amsterdam Berlin Boston Charleston Chicago Dubai Lisbon London Los Angeles Miami Nashville New York City New Orleans Paris Philadelphia Prague Rome San Francisco Washington DC

About The Author

North America

United kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

12 Best Bus Tours in London

By: Author Values Bus Tour

Posted on Last updated: November 3, 2023

Imagine London in your head. You’re picturing the stuff you already know: Tower Bridge, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace. But there’s more to London than just these tourist must-sees. There’s a whole host of excellent and unique experiences that many tourists miss out on when they only have a short time to explore a city.

That’s where I come in — I’m here to guide you through the bus tours in London! I’ve done the research, crunched the numbers, and painstakingly curated this list of not one but twelve London bus tours.

Table of Contents

Best Bus Tours in London

1. hop-on hop-off bus tours.

If you want to see the best sights without worrying about missing out on anything, hop on a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour ! The hop-on hop-off bus allows you to get on and off the bus at any of its designated stops as often as you like during a given day. This flexibility provides travelers an opportunity to plan their trips according to what’s interesting or important for them—and not by some preset schedule.

London’s three hop-on, hop-off sightseeing operators—The Original Tour Bus (Tootbus), Big Bus Tours, and Golden Tours—dominate the sightseeing tours of London. All these three London bus tours offer almost similar services. They all have open-top bus experience, audioguide in multiple languages, and a river cruise.

Although they offer different routes, their stops and destinations are almost identical. All these hop-on hop-off bus tours will take you to prominent Central London landmarks and attractions, including Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, St. Paul’s Cathedral, London Eye, and more.

However, when you look more closely at the individual services offered by each company, you will see that some companies offer products and services that their competitors do not provide.

One thing that sets Big Bus Tours apart from the other bus tour companies is its free walking tours – Changing of Guard Walk, the City of London Walk, and Jack the Ripper.

On the other hand, The Original Tour Bus is the only company that offers Kids Tour, a non-stop bus tour (not hop on, hop off) with kid-friendly commentary and some activity packs. They also provide a 1.5-hr Bar Bus tour, again, not hop-on hop-off but a unique experience with a bar on board.

Lastly, The Golden Tours also covers central London. It is the only one to offer at least one live guide in English but not in a hop on hop off. Also, Golden Tours provides an audio guide in 11 languages.

Overall, whichever bus operator you choose, Hop on, hop off bus tours are a great way to see London’s top attractions. If you’re unsure where to get off the bus for your next destination, pick up a free map from any of the stops along the route so you can plan your day accordingly.

The buses also drive past many of the city’s most famous streets, allowing you to see some of the most beautiful Victorian architecture in all its glory!

See Related : Best Bus Tours from Fresno, California

2. London by Night Sightseeing Tours

Taking a 90-minute open-top bus tour of London at night is one of the best ways to see the city from a fascinating perspective. The route takes you past Big Ben, Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace, St. James Park, and more. The guides are entertaining and well-informed; they can also point out things happening in real time, like fireworks or a rock show.

If you plan to take a night bus tour of London, check if your trip coincides with a scheduled event. The city regularly hosts festivals and concerts (particularly during the summer at Hyde Park), and many of these events include free open-top bus tours as part of their programming.

But, even if no special event is planned, riding at night can still be enjoyable because many of the most well-known London landmarks are lit up at that time. And the bonus is that you can avoid traffic jams during rush hour!

See Related : Best Vacations for Singles Over 40

3. Vintage Bus Tour

Step back in time on this vintage open-top double-decker bus tour of London. Explore London’s sights on a restored 1950s Routemaster Bus.

Get an insider’s look at the London you’ve always wanted to see with a ride along the Thames that includes a tour of some of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

The half-day tours leave from Victoria Coach Station, where your guide will meet you. As you listen to the tour, it will provide historical facts about many famous sites in central London, including Big Ben, St Paul’s Cathedral, and Westminster Abbey.

At the Tower Pier, there is also a Thames River cruise. You will see spectacular views of the London Eye, the Houses of Parliament, and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. After the river cruise, you will ride back to the vintage bus and head to Buckingham palace for a chance to see the Changing of Guard ceremony. Definitely, a classic ending to an ideal London vacation.

See Related : Best Fullington Bus Tours

4. The Harry Potter Bus Tour

From the Great Hall to Hagrid’s Hut, from Dumbledore’s office to the Gryffindor common room, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London allows fans to enter the magical world of Harry Potter and explore the film sets that brought J. K. Rowling’s wizarding world to life.

This fantastic opportunity is available for everyone who loves Harry Potter and wants to see what it was like behind the scenes. The tour features sets and props from all eight films, including costumes worn by Harry Potter and his friends, Harry Potter’s Nimbus 2000, Hagrid’s motorcycle, and even a recreation of Platform 9 3/4 at Kings Cross Station.

Come dressed as a muggle or wizard, and take this tour to enter the magical world of Harry Potter!

5. Ghost Bus Tour of London

Ever wanted to go on a ghost bus tour of London? You’re in luck! Ghost Bus Tours offer an experience unlike any other. The Ghost Bus Tour is a theatrical bus tour with actors on board performing hilarious horror shows while you see the city’s sights.

This 1hour and 15-minute bus tour begins at Northumberland Avenue and travels through the city. The Ghost Bus Tour takes you on a journey where terrible things have happened, like sites of murder, execution, and torture.

You’ll be amazed at what you see and hear on this guided tour of London’s most haunted sites. This guided tour takes you through some of London’s most historic sites and spooky legends, from the Tower of London to Westminster Abbey.

But don’t worry. They’ve got the perfect mix of humor and horror to keep people entertained as they learn more about their favorite city.

See Related : Best Hoover Dam Bus Tours From Las Vegas

6. James Bond Bus Tour 

You’re in London and want to see the city like James Bond. You could take one of those old-fashioned buses like any other tourist. Or you could take a James Bond Bus Tour !

The James Bond Bus Tour will take you on a whirlwind tour of London’s most famous landmarks (and not just the usual ones). You’ll get to see all the secret places only James Bond knows about, like the underground entrance to MI6 headquarters, or where they filmed the scenes from Bond 25, “No Time to Die.”

Step into the dangerous world of 007 and get ready for a wild ride on the James Bond Bus Tour!

7. The Beatles Bus Tour

Are you a fan of the Beatles? Then this bus tour is for you! The Beatles Bus Tour is a guided tour of London that takes you to the most important landmarks and places associated with the famous band.

You will hear stories about how The Beatles used to hang out in these spots while they were still a band and even after they had disbanded, as well as what happened to them later in their lives.

Get a chance to step inside Abbey Road Studios and see where The Beatles recorded! (and maybe even sing your version of “Hey Jude” or something). And yes, you get to walk across the famous Abbey Road! You’ll be able to see it all with a guide who knows exactly what they’re talking about.

This tour is perfect for anyone who wants to know more about The Beatles. It’s not just about seeing cool landmarks—it’s about learning how these places shaped The Beatles as musicians and how they influenced billions of people around the world.

See Related : Best Bus Tours in Buffalo, New York

8. Afternoon Tea Bus Tour London

Imagine a world where you can have afternoon tea while strolling around London. Well, stop imagining – because that world exists! It’s called the Afternoon Tea Bus Tour .

This afternoon tea tour will take you through the streets of London and introduce you to some of its most beloved landmarks while sipping on a cup of tea and eating delicious pastries. The best part? You’ll do it all in a double-decker route master bus!

The tour takes you to famous sights and historical buildings, including Big Ben and Downing Street, for approximately 90 minutes.

You can enjoy a wide variety of savory and sweet snacks, sandwiches, cakes, tarts, scones, and muffins with your choice of hot or cold drinks. Nothing beats taking a bite of cake while admiring the views from your window seat.

Just a reminder that no alcohol can be purchased onboard the bus. Alcohol is pre-order only and must be purchased in advance.

See Related: Best Bus Tours in London: Top Picks for Sightseeing

9. Bustronome, London

One way to experience London is by taking the Bustronome London tour .

Your journey to gastronomic heaven begins at the Victoria Embankment bus stop 40B, where you will be greeted personally and seated at your table aboard the top deck of the luxury glass-roofed coach.

A full six-course meal, prepared and cooked fresh onboard, will be served to you during a 3-hour tour of London’s most famous sights like St. Paul’s Cathedral, Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge, and many more.

The music in the restaurant creates an ambiance perfect for a date night. After this gastronomic adventure, you’ll be returned to the Victoria Embankment.

See Related : Best Greatland Bus Tours

10. East London Gangster Bus Tour

The East London Gangster Bus Tour is a wild ride through the criminal and gangster underworld in East London.

Ride a gangster-themed open-top tour bus down Bethnal Green Road, the site of notorious Ronnie and Reggie Kray’s reign. From 1957 to 1967, the Kray twins were at the forefront of organized crime in London’s East End.

You will also visit the E Pellicci Cafe (famous for its appearance in Legend), where the Kray twins would often visit. You can also tour the site of Ronnie Kray’s infamous shooting of George Cornell at The Blind Beggar in Whitechapel.

Hear all these stories and more from Micky’ Goldtooth’. He will tell you all about the lives of real gangsters and the gangster underworld secrets. The tour departs at Liverpool Street Station and ends near Borough Market.

11. Jack the Ripper and Sherlock Holmes Bus Tour

The Jack the Ripper and Sherlock Holmes Bus Tour is a 3-hour tour through the streets of London that will take you back to the time of Jack the Ripper and Sherlock Holmes.

You will journey through the haunted streets of London in a vintage open-top bus and hear stories about the legends buried at Westminster Abbey.

Prepare to hear your guide explain how the public executioner would raise a severed head in the air so that everyone could see it shake for several seconds after such a brutal blow.

Drive into the East End of London, where crimes flourished in the 19th century. Step back in time to when Jack the Ripper brutally murdered five women.

The tour ends at the Sherlock Holmes Pub & Restaurant. Here, you can enjoy a delicious meal while admiring all the collectible items dedicated to England’s most famous detective!

This spooky tour takes place after dark, giving visitors the perfect ambiance to hear all about some of the city’s most notorious crimes and disturbing legends.

See Related : Best Bus Tours From Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

12. Christmas Lights Tour of London

The Christmas Lights Tour of London is the ideal way to get into the holiday spirit! From November – January, you can enjoy the beautiful Christmas lights of London traveling on a restored 50-year-old Vintage bus.

You will travel through the West End to view magnificent colorful Christmas lights while a local tour guide provides live commentary. You will also pass the Houses of Parliament and the famous Christmas tree at Trafalgar Square.

The tour starts at 4 pm and 7 pm, and it’s not a “hop on, hop off” type of service. You have to stay on the bus for the entire journey, which lasts about two hours.

See Related: Best Bus Tours in Las Vegas

What are the advantages and disadvantages of bus tours?

Undoubtedly, taking a bus tour has a lot of advantages. They’re super convenient. They bring you to many places in one day, which can be an advantage if you’re short on time and want to pack as much sightseeing into one vacation as possible.

You will learn a lot from a tour guide with extensive knowledge of the places they guide visitors through. They’re a relatively inexpensive way to travel while also getting some history lessons along the way.

Joining a bus tour is an excellent way to meet people, especially if you are new in town. But there are also disadvantages to bus tours. For one thing, you don’t get to choose the pace of the tour, which could be too slow for some people or too fast for others.

If you’re prone to motion sickness or claustrophobia, buses may not be for you. Another obvious disadvantage of bus tours is that you don’t really get to know your fellow travelers. If someone sitting next to you annoys you during your trip, there isn’t much you can do other than try and ignore them.

If you have a driver who drives recklessly, speaks on the phone while driving, etc., these actions may frustrate you. Lastly, the inevitable traffic. If you’re headed somewhere on a bus tour, you’re often traveling a route many other people also want to travel in a similar timeframe. It can mean heavy traffic that you have no control over.

Although bus tours have a few drawbacks, you can still enjoy your journey with the right company and a planned itinerary.

What to Expect on a Bus Tour of London?

London Bus tour is a great way to see the city. You can get a pass for one day or up to three days and hop on and off at any different city stops. If you are staying in London for a few days, you can also purchase an unlimited pass so that you can take as many rides as you want.

Almost all the routes will take you past Buckingham Palace and Big Ben, as well as other famous landmarks such as Westminster Abbey, Piccadilly Circus, and Trafalgar Square.

There are also different kinds of buses, like single-decker, double-decker, and open-top buses, so you can choose which suits your needs and preferences best. Bus tours are also great for children because they can learn a lot about London by taking a bus tour of the city.

Tips for Taking a Bus Tour in London

We’ve got the tips you need if you’re looking to get the most out of your tour.

• Open-top double-decker bus offers a better view of the city, but you also risk being cold and wet. If you’re planning to take one, try to get on during summer or buy a jacket before boarding the bus.
• Do you want a quiet ride? Or do you prefer a tour guide telling you about the history of London as he drives? You can find both types easily. Look online before your trip so all your bases are covered! And don’t forget to ask if they have Wi-Fi on board!
• Remember to bring your camera. There will be plenty of photo opportunities along the way—including stops at some of London’s most famous sights.
• Dress in layers! It’s always cold outside during winter and hot inside the bus.
• Buy your tickets online to avoid the hassle of queueing. You may also want to look into what kind of deals and combo packages are available so that you can save some money on your trip! Check online for the latest offers and promotions before booking your tour. You might be surprised at how much money you’ll save!
• Expect traffic. When traveling in London, it’s best to schedule your trip during off-peak hours (like early morning or late afternoon), so you don’t get stuck in unexpected traffic jams on your way to your destination.

Is Taking a London Bus Tour Worth It?

Yes, it is! The city is vast, and it’s impossible to see everything on foot, so bus tours are an excellent way to see the city. They give you a chance to see some of those famous landmarks up close, as well as learn about the history behind them.

It’s a great way to get acquainted with the city and get your bearings. You’ll see all the main attractions in one day, but you’ll also learn about some of the lesser-known sights that are worth visiting too.

What is the best London Bus tour?

It still depends on your interest. But for someone new to the city, a typical hop-on/hop-off is probably the best way to see all of London’s famous attractions.

What is the best bus tour for children?

We recommend the Tootbus London Kids Tour, which offers kid-friendly commentary. In addition, kids will learn a lot about the city and its history in a fun way.

When is the best time to go on a London Bus Tour?

The best time to go is during the spring and summer months. However, since everyone visits during this time of year, it’s also the busiest and most expensive.

Related Resources

• Best Luxury Bus Tours
• Best Christian Bus Tours
• Best Bus Companies to Book Your Journey

Related Posts

• 16 Best Places to Visit in Texas
• How to Take a Bus from Flagstaff to Phoenix
• How to Take a Bus from Indianapolis to Chicago
• Plan Your Commute: A Guide to the 545 Bus Schedule
• How to Take a Bus from Seattle to Portland
• The Ultimate Guide to Navigating the x27 Bus Schedule
• How to Take a Bus from Pittsburgh to NYC
• Vamoose Bus Schedule: Timetables & Routes

The 5 Best London Bus Tours – [2024 Reviews]

For a convenient way to see the most of london's sites take one of these top bus tours.

London is certainly a city with a lot to take in. A London bus tour allows you to get from site to site, museum to museum, and even from one tour to another. With someone else doing the driving, feel free to watch this beautiful city pass by and snap the perfect photos.

You may even be able to rid in a vintage London double-decker bus. Here are the best London bus tours available for your next vacation.

Best Bus Tours of London

Quick answer: the 5 best bus tours of london.

• Buckingham Palace and Vintage Bus Tour of London
• Vintage London Bus Tour Including Thames River Cruise w/ Optional London Eye
• London Pass including Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour and Entry to Over 80 Attractions
• London Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour and Tower of London Ticket
• Tootbus Must See Windsor: Hop-on Hop-off Tour & Cruise

Bus Tours of London Reviews

#1 buckingham palace and vintage bus tour of london.

• Departure Point : Victoria Coach Station
• Departure Time : 8:15 AM
• Duration : 5 hours 30 minutes
• Includes : bus tour with guide, Thames river cruise, tour of Buckingham Palace, free snacks

The red London double-decker buses are as unique to the city of London as Buckingham Palace itself. This sightseeing London bus will take you by many of the city’s attractions so you can pack as much as possible into just over 5 hours.

See the infamous Tower of London, the year-round residence of the Queen, the Houses of Parliament and even Big Ben among others. That is only the beginning of the excitement this tour of London has to offer.

You’ll then see the city from the perspective of a cruise boat as you travel the Thames. Plus, you will be able to tour Buckingham Palace to experience the royal residence up close and personal.

2019 marks 200 years since Queen Victoria was born and there is a special exhibit at the Palace to commemorate Her Highness.

Tour Information & Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, #2  vintage london bus tour including thames river cruise w/ optional london eye.

• Departure Time : 7:45 AM
• Duration : 3 hours 30 minutes
• Includes : experienced local guide, London sightseeing bus tour, Thames river cruise, priority access to the London Eye or Tower of London with purchased admission to those attractions

This is one of the best London bus tours if you are looking to enjoy the city from one of their popular, vintage red buses. In addition to Buckingham Palace and Big Ben, you’d also ride past Shakespeare’s famous theatre, The Globe.

That’s only the start of the attractions you can see and experience on this London double-decker bus tour. You’ll ride over the London Bridge, made famous by song and rhyme, and pass by Westminster Abbey.

If you decide to add a ride on the London Eye to your big, red bus London tour, you’ll have priority access to the attraction. The same for visiting the Tower of London. If you purchase tickets in advance, you will have priority access.

Enjoy the Changing of the Guard, lots of photo ops, and even a Thames river cruise. You’ll be brought back to the Victoria Coach Station where you can easily board another tour to Stonehenge taking place in the afternoon.

Other Experiences You May Enjoy:

#3 london pass including hop-on hop-off bus tour and entry to over 80 attractions.

• Departure Point : Multiple Hop-On Hop-Off Points
• Departure Time : Immediately After Purchase
• Duration : Various Options
• Includes : Access to 80+ attractions, Skip-the-Line access at several attractions, hop-on hop-off access to the London red bus

When it comes to a hop-on hop-off London bus, this “all-inclusive” option is one of the best London bus tour deals available. What is a hop-on hop-off London bus tour? You can literally hop on the bus and hop off at many places around the city. This makes it a great mode of transportation while sightseeing.

With this hop-on hop-off tour, London is at your fingertips. You will enjoy discounts at many shopping venues and restaurants you can access with this bus tour.

While the full list of stops and included attraction tickets are listed in the free London travel guidebook you receive with the confirmation of your booking, there are more than 80 and way too many to list here. However, St. Paul’s Cathedral and the London Zoo even have skip-the-line access.

With this hop-on hop-off bus, London is yours for the taking. You can take advantage of the best London bus tours with many different lengths of use. For example, you can purchase credits for everything from 1 day to 10 depending on the length of your stay.

#4 London Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour and Tower of London Ticket

• Departure Point : Any of the 80+ stops
• Departure Time : Any
• Duration : 24 hours or 48 hours
• Includes : guided hop-on hop-off access to a London city tour bus, access to 3 walking tours in the city, ticketed access to the Tower of London

If you won’t be in London long enough to enjoy all 80+ attractions included in the above hop-on hop-off big bus tour, London can still be yours with this one. Bring your confirmation to any of the stops and they will exchange it for your 24-hour pass or offer a 48-hour pass as an upgrade.

There are more than 80 different stops where you can literally hop on and hop off where and when you’d like. This can be one of the best London tours available while you also enjoy a Thames river cruise and access to the Tower of London.

The hop-on hop-off London bus tour will stop at each of the 80+ predesignated stops approximately every 15 minutes. This allows you to stop at those you want to and hop right back on after your visit at the attraction or museum.

Your confirmation of this London city bus tour also entitles you to three different walking tours of the city, which the bus also stops at. For convenience, all inclusions can be used on different days.

#5 Tootbus Must See Windsor: Hop-on Hop-off Tour & Cruise

• Duration : 24 hours from the time of first use
• Includes : guided hop-on hop-off access to a London city tour bus, access to 3 walking tours in the city, a Thames river cruise, ticketed access to Shrek’s Adventure

With your confirmation for this original bus tour, London is open to you and your family. Many of the 80+ stops are at or near family-friendly attractions such as museums and walking tours. There are 3 walking tours included with this package, making it one of the best London bus tours.

Another great inclusion with this hop-on bus: London seen from the Thames river on a river cruise. Cruise past many of London’s biggest attractions as you take advantage of wonderful photo opportunities.

The children’s activity will keep the little ones busy during the less exciting parts of the London city bus tour, at least for them, until it’s time to head to Shrek’s Adventure. There, you will board another bus, but you’ve never seen one like this. Have fun with Donkey as he takes you through Shrek’s Swamp and to 10 different fairy-tale themed shows.

London Travel Guide

Airports & entry, planning tips, restaurants & eating out, nightlife & entertainment, getting around, accommodations, attractions.

Here, we offer a guide to visiting London, from the airport you will be arriving at to other attractions you may want to visit and even the weather.

Let’s help you make the most of your vacation to London!

There are five airports that service London, England. If you are traveling abroad, you will most likely be arriving at London Heathrow. For shorter flights departing European airports, should you be heading to London from a previous vacation spot, you may fly into one of these smaller London airports:

• London City
• London Gatwick
• London Luton
• London Stansted

Visiting London is unlike visiting any other city on earth. Because of this, you will want to take a full city tour of London to get a idea of where all the attractions are. We list our top 5 tips for visiting London below. Do you have additional tips to suggest? We’d love for you to comment them below!

Tip #1: Bring Your Walking Shoes

Much of your travel around the city will be walking. Even when you head out of town for a day tour, such as those to Stonehenge, most of the tours require quite a bit of walking. It’s best to be relaxed wearing athletic shoes instead of wearing more fashionable shoes that can make the necessary walking uncomfortable.

Tip #2: Bring a Converter or Transformer

Your electric and electronic devices made for use in the US will not work in the UK without a converter or transformer. A converter is made to use with electronics such as your phone or tablet and a transformer with electric devices such as a hairdryer. The US runs on 120 V and the UK on 240. This means that using your US devices without a voltage converter or transformer in the UK may damage them.

Tip #3: Start Planning Your Trip Early

London receives millions of tourists each year. This means that you will most likely have to book tours well in advance. You should also book your accommodations and reservations in restaurants as soon as possible. This is especially true for tickets to theater events and shows.

Tip #4: Always Bring an Umbrella

It doesn’t matter what time of year you’re visiting London, quick showers and rainstorms are always a possibility. It’s best to bring an umbrella with you as purchasing one at a convenient location in the city will most likely cost much more. A collapsible umbrella that is easy to carry with you is ideal.

Tip #5: Start Budgeting in Advance

London is quite an expensive city to visit but it’s worth it. Be sure you have budgeted for your flight and accommodations as well as your daily meals. You should have plenty of British pounds, the local currency, on hand as taxis and some stores may not take debit or credit cards. Also, keep in mind that the farther out your trip is planned, the better deals you will get, especially on accommodations.

There are several Dishoom restaurants located around the city. These restaurants serve high quality and delicious Indian food within a modern atmosphere. London is one of the best places to enjoy Indian food outside of India. These restaurants often have a wait but the wait is well worth it.

Not only will you want to experience the delicious Indian food, it also wouldn’t be a trip to London without an afternoon tea. There are plenty of places around town to enjoy your tea, but afternoon tea at The Savoy Hotel, London is something not to be missed. Sketch is another afternoon tea hotspot offering a unique experience.

If you’re looking for a meal with a great view, you’ll want to make reservations at the Duck & Waffle. However, don’t miss out on the opportunity to enjoy the most popular meal in London, fish and chips, at many local hotspots.

Nightlife in London can be anything you’d like it to be. There are nighttime tours of the city and surrounding areas for something a little more low-key, or you can head to a nightclub or one of the many music venues to turn up the entertainment dial.

From standup comedy and dramatic theater to the trendy clubs of the West End and even the casinos that can be found around town, nightlife in London is perfect for everyone.

As mentioned, visiting London requires a lot of walking. However, you can also choose to ride the subway, board a boat, or even hop on a bus or take a taxi. You may find the subway also referred to as “the underground” or “the tube.”

The cost of transportation by any of these methods will be determined by your destination’s distance from central London. The city and surrounding areas are divided into zones that determine distance and cost. If you’re going to be visiting for at least a few days, you may want to invest in a daily or weekly Travelcard pass.

There are many choices in accommodations when visiting London. You may find a great Airbnb location, and you can also find everything from a small hostel to a five-star, luxury hotel. The accommodations you choose should be determined by your budget, but also by the type of experience you’re looking for. An Airbnb can instantly make you feel like a local.

A hostel can provide plenty of opportunities to meet other tourists and learn more about attractions and eateries. If you’re looking for a luxury experience, the Camden Enterprise Hotel or even the Dorset City London can provide it.

The average low temperatures during the winter months are in the mid-40s Fahrenheit or around 7°C. These mild winter temperatures make London an ideal vacation spot for the holidays. July, London’s hottest month of the year, usually doesn’t reach the 70s Fahrenheit, or above 18⁰ Celsius.

Even with mild temperatures during the summer, it can feel quite humid and you may run into a short shower or two. Once again, always have an umbrella handy.

A vacation to London necessitates a visit to Buckingham Palace . Other attractions include the Coca-Cola London Eye, the Ferris wheel easily seen in every London skyline, as well as historical landmarks such as Kensington Palace, the London Tower, or the Churchill War Rooms.

While in London, be sure to visit one of the many museums and art galleries that can be found in nearly every area of the city. Parks, waterfronts, and bridges provide great photo ops and can provide a beautiful place to rest and take in the local sights. Fans of the Harry Potter books and movies will be in heaven. Be sure to do a Harry Potter tour to see all the sites and filming locations from the series.

Maybe the best way to get most of the sights to see in London is a Thames River sightseeing and dinner cruise . You will glide by the sights on the beautiful Thames River while enjoying lunch or dinner and avoiding the crowds.

If you want to see a castle, the Windsor Castle is a don’t miss! This 1000 year old castle has been home to 39 monarchs and currently the Queen spends many weekends there. To fully appreciate the splendor, be sure to take a guided tour of Windsor Castle .

The History, Beauty, and Mysticism of Stonehenge

When planning your vacation to London, be sure to plan for a day trip to Stonehenge while there. The best guided tour from London to Stonehenge will allow you to experience the English countryside, the 18th-century city of Bath, the ancient Roman baths, 14th-century English pubs, and more.

However, that doesn’t mean you can skip on visiting the many museums and art galleries, enjoying some of the best food available, and taking time to appreciate the beautiful mix of modern style and historical sites that London provides.

Enjoy your trip to London!

Outside Pursuits chose a vintage London Bus Tour for our Editor's Choice. Buckingham Palace and River Thames are just two of the sites you'll enjoy along its route.

Richard Moore

Related articles, the 5 best stonehenge tours from london [2024 reviews], the 5 best wine tours from florence [2024 reviews], the 7 best vatican tours ⛪ [2024 reviews], the 5 best seine river dinner cruises [2024 reviews].

Save 18% City Tour London - 42 stops over 3 routes!

London Sightseeing Tours - Walking & Bus Tours

London bus tours.

A sightseeing icon in its own right, step on board a double-decker bus for the must do tour of London's world famous landmarks. The London Open Top Bus Tour provides the classic London sightseeing experience. Hop on /Hop off all day long while listening to laugh a minute guided commentary. Book 2 or more tickets for 1 great price with our London Bus Tours.

Sightseeing Tours London

Featured attraction.

Shop safely here Discount London ensure booking tickets online with us is 100% secure :

Discount London | Contact Us | Terms and Conditions | Site Map | Affiliates | FAQs | Privacy Policy | Price Guarantee | Download My Tickets | Blog

RELATED LINKS

On this page, most popular sights, tickets & sightseeing passes, things to see and do, from our blog.

OPEN TOP SIGHTSEEING BUSES

London tours, popular tours from london, free self-guided walks.

• Guide to hotel areas
• Bed & breakfast
• Backpacker hostels
• Airbnb London
• Central London tours
• Tours from London
• Hop-on hop-off bus tours
• Harry Potter tours
• Stonehenge tours
• Downton Abbey tours
• Windsor tours
• Cotswolds tours
• Private tours
• Ticket & pass offers
• Central London attractions
• Attractions outside London
• Harry Potter attractions
• Tower of London
• PUBLIC TRANSPORT
• London City
• London Southend
• Southampton

Comparing London's hop-on hop-off sightseeing buses

Tootbus compared with big bus + golden tours with previously asked questions.

Tootbus has routes to major sights and free cruises

London's hop-on sightseeing bus tour providers

Nowadays sightseeing tours of London are dominated by London's three hop-on, hop-off open top sightseeing operators:

1. Tootbus (formerly The Original Tour) 2. Big Bus 3. Golden Tours

If you see anybody else offering a hop-on, hop-off tour for London they are acting as an agent for one of the above.

At first inspection all three London sightseeing operators offer a very similar product. But spend an hour or so studying each service and you begin to identify the differences.

This page aims to save you that time and present the differences as concisely as possible.

The traditional guided coach tour of London is still available, but in terms of market share this is tiny compared with London's popular hop-on, hop off sightseeing buses.

Premium Tours also run a small fleet of open top vintage red London buses. These fall somewhere between the guided coach tour and the hop-on, hop-off sightseeing buses. The London red vintage bus tour has no hop-on, hop-off facility and is basically a guided orientation tour of London's main sights with a few photo stops and a river cruise.

Comparison table of London's hop-on bus prices 2024

BOOK HOP-ON BUS TICKETS   Compare 3 hop-on bus companies   Ticket differences   London Pass - Big Bus or Golden Tours   River Cruise   Money saving - Hop-on bus plus attraction   Hop-on bus price comparison table   Previously asked questions about hop-on buses  

TOOTBUS HOP-ON BUS & GUIDED WALKING TOURS

Tootbus London Discovery tickets + Vox City guided walking tours

• Choose from 24, 48 or 72-hr tickets • Audio guide in 5 languages • 2 professionally guided walking tours: The Wizard Walk - Harry Potter Walking Guided Tour & The Royals and Landmarks - Walking Guided Tour 

DISCOUNTED BIG BUS LONDON TICKETS

DISCOUNTED TICKETS COMPARED WITH BOOKING DIRECT

Choice of tickets • FREE River cruises on all tickets • 3 FREE guided walking tours on Essential & Explore tickets • Evening tours included on Explore ticket • Free Wi-Fi on board • Audio in 5 languages • London in your Pocket app access

GOLDEN TOURS HOP-ON BUS LONDON TICKETS

Hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus London

Choice of 1-day, 24, 48 or 72-hr tickets • Free one-way Thames river cruise (if selected) • Two walking tours • Free Wi-Fi on board • Audio in 11 languages • London in your Pocket app access

Tootbus (The Original Tour) v Big Bus v Golden Tours comparison

All 3 London sightseeing tour operators are established operators in the London market. Big Bus and Tootbus (formerly The Original Tour) are owned by large corporates and Golden Tours, the relative newcomer entered the market several years ago after a long history of offering the traditional guided coach tours, which they still do.

All 3 operators offer similar packages, but more differences have opened up in recent years, see below for more details.

Walking Tours

Both Golden Tours and Big Bus offer highly regarded professionally guided walking tours included with your ticket (selected tickets only).

With Golden Tours you can choose from a Jack The Ripper Walking Tour or Coronation Walking Tour.

Big Bus offer THREE FREE TOURS with their Essential and Explore tickets: Changing of the Guard Walking Tour, City of London Walking Tour and a Jack the Ripper Walking Tour. Each tour is 1.5 hours long.

Tootbus do not offer guided walking tours but instead give you the chance to download "Tootwalk" to your phone: a choice of three self-guided walks.

River cruises

River cruises are available with all three tour companies, but not all tours automatically include them; the cheaper (both 24-hr and calendar day) tours do not. If this is important to you, do check carefully before booking.

Routes and vehicles

All operators offer an open top bus experience with routes that all cover the major sights in central London.

Although they each have a different number of routes, where they visit is almost identical, with all three sightseeing tour operators almost duplicating each others routes in the very heart of London.

You can click through on the links below to study each operators route map in detail.

Tootbus are the only operator to offer the unique Kids Tour which is a non-stop tour (not hop-on, hop off) but which is cheaper and offers a commentary that is very family friendly. In addition they are also the only company to offer a 1.5-hr Bar Bus tour , again, not hop-on hop off but a memorable experience with bar on board.

Vehicles used are almost identical, all offer free Wi-Fi and audio guides providing commentary in English and at least one other language.

Tootbus route map London 2024

Big Bus Tour map London 2024

Golden Tours route map London 2024

Live guides vs audio guides

This is one area that has also changed in recent years. Traditionally all three companies offered live guides on at least one of their hop-on tours.

Today you will find this is no longer the case. If having a live guide is important to you there are a couple of options, but none of them are hop-on, hop-off but rather 60 or 90-minute continuous sightseeing tours.

Golden Tours have a live guide on their 90 min non-stop tour.

Tootbus have a live guide on their London Kids Tour and London Christmas Tour.

Big Bus no longer offer a live guide service on any of their tours.

Prices are similar to the 1-day tour but many people really value having a live guide if English is a language they speak fluently.

Tootbus no longer offer the range of languages it once used to; now audio is either in English or French. Big Bus have an audio guide with 5 languages. Golden Tours have the most with 11 languages.

Times and frequencies of buses

All operators start up around 8.30am and start running down the service around 5pm. Evening services are also additionally available as a separate tour with all three operators.

All three operators, even in the winter months operate frequent bus services, however of the three operators perhaps Golden Tours is slightly less frequent. You shouldn't generally have to wait more than twenty minutes however.

London's hop-on buses - differences between tickets for all 3 operators

Standard tour ticket durations

24, 48 or 72-hr durations.

All operators offer tickets with 24 and 48-hr validity periods; Tootbus and Golden Tours also offer 72-hr tickets.

In addition Tootbus offer a 60-min Bar Bus ticket, while Golden Tours offer a fully guided 1.5-hr Express ticket (see above).

Tootbus call their tickets, '1-day' and '2-day' but the actual validity is 24, 48 or 72 hours.

Golden Tours offer cheaper calendar tours (which run from when you buy them to the end of the day) in addition to 24/48/72-hr tickets. The calendar day tickets do not include the river cruise.

Shorter tours/express tours (not hop on, hop off)

Both Tootbus and Golden Tours offer shorter tours, of 1.5 hrs which are different to the traditional hop on, hop off buses in that you stay on them for the duration of the tour. Tootbus call theirs as 'Bar Bus' as drinks are available on board (over 18s only). River cruises are not included with these tours.

For Golden Tours this is their only product featuring a live guide. Although much shorter therefore, the price is nearly as much as a 24-hr hop on bus tour.

Tootbus' similar offering is in the same price band but does not feature the live guide. Many people really appreciate the difference between having a live guide and an audio guide.

Evening tours (not hop on, hop off)

All three companies offer evening tours which are non-stop for around 1.5 hours. Again, Golden Tours is the only operator offering the live guide on this experience, though Tootbus have a live guide on their Kids Tour and Christmas Lights tour.

Big Bus also include a separate evening tour with their Explore ticket.

Discounted - cheapest tickets

Hop-on, hop off sightseeing tickets are freely available in London from hotels, tourist centres and on the day from the representatives of the tour companies you find around the bus stops.

Do not expect to find discount vouchers or codes, if you do find one it's the exception rather than the rule.

However, cheaper tickets can be found using our banners on this page. By booking online ahead of our hop-on, hop-off bus tour you will always save money.

Our partners Travel Compendium bring you exclusive discounts on hop on bus tours in London with Golden Tours and Big Bus.

Pre-booking tickets - flexibility and ease/cost of obtaining tickets

All three operators now require you to select your date of tour at purchase. However all 3 tours companies offer a 'flexible booking guarantee' should you need to amend your tour date at any time (Tootbus allow this up 12 months from date of purchase, Golden Tours allow a cancellation for full refund up to 24 hours before boarding, Big Bus require 72 hours to amend your booking.)

For Big Bus and Golden Tours tickets are e-tickets and are shown to the driver at your first bus stop. Here they give you a receipt which you keep for the validity of your hop-on bus tour.

Tootbus accept mobile tickets but encourage you to download your tickets on to their app, for ease of use.

Both Big Bus and Tootbus offer an app offering similar features such as:

Maps, route planning, real time bus tracking, walking directions to nearest bus stops, nearby eateries and attractions and even the secrets of must-see landmarks with audio commentaries.

With Tootbus you can also import your pass (tickets) ready to scan directly on the bus.

London Pass - choice of 2 hop on bus companies: Big Bus or Golden Tours

The London Pass is a flat rate sightseeing pass to many (but not all) of London's main sightseeing attractions. You can buy a London Pass for 1, 2, 3, 6 or 10 day durations

The London Pass gives you entry into more than 60 London tourist attractions and a river cruise on the River Thames.

The London Pass also now includes use of either Golden Tours or Big Bus hop-on hop-off bus for one calendar day, whatever the duration of the London Pass.

Tootbus are not part of the London Pass scheme.

Key points of the London Pass Ho Ho bus offer

You can choose to ride on the Golden Tours  or  Big Bus hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus. Tootbus (Original Tour) is not covered.

The Ho Ho bus offer is for one calendar day  not  for 24 hours.

Most people use the Ho Ho facility on the first day of their London Pass, but there is nothing stopping using it on another day when the London Pass is valid.

The Ho Ho bus offer with London Pass doesn't include the walking tours and river cruises included in the standard tickets issued by the Ho Ho companies concerned, only the bus tour (but you do get a river cruise included in the London Pass separately anyway)

You show your London Pass to the driver or tour guide of the first bus you board. They will scan your London Pass and issue you with a separate ticket for the bus company concerned valid for the rest of the day. You cannot switch to the other bus company once you have made your first journey.

London Pass more details

Free river cruises

While all three tour companies have a river cruise option, not every tour comes with a river cruise automatically. The cheaper tours for example, do not feature a river cruise.

Both Big Bus and Tootbus use the same river cruise company, City Cruises , while Golden Tours use Thames River Sightseeing.

Golden Tours/Thames River Sightseeing operate a cruise between Westminster Pier and Greenwich Pier.

Tootbus and Big Bus cruises run between Westminster and Tower Pier (or Greenwich Pier for Big Bus Premium or Deluxe ticket holders).

All operators run river services approximately every 40 minutes and later services are usually available until around 6pm in the summer season from April.

The Thames Cruise should be a highlight of your day and we recommend you take advantage of the facility.

Thames river cruise ticket options by company

A complimentary one-way river cruise offered by  City Cruises  (lasting around thirty minutes) is included in your Big Bus London ticket.

Tootbus' cheaper ticket doesn't come with the river cruise included - look for it on the 'Must See London' ticket. Your one-way river cruise starts at either Westminster pier or Tower of London pier.

Golden Tours

Golden Tours' river cruise is only available on the 24-hr ticket, not the calendar day ticket. There is also another ticket option to choose 24-hrs without cruise. Cruises are also one-way.

Hop-on buses in London plus attractions - money saving

Save money buying attraction tickets & bus tour in one package

Many people opt to combine their hop-on bus tour with one or more top attractions in London, in order to save even more on entrance tickets.

Golden Tours hop-on buses plus top London attraction

At the moment Golden Tours probably offer the best range of hop-on bus tours combined with attractions.

Please see our full listing of your choices of Golden Tours hop-on bus plus top London attraction

Big Bus + top London attractions tickets - save up to 28%

Big bus + attraction through discount london.

Discount London are offering a great deal: buy your Big Bus tickets in combination with your choice of top London attraction and save up to 28% on the cost of buying tickets separately.

Attractions included are: London Eye , SEA LIFE , St Paul's Cathedral , London Dungeon , Madame Tussauds , Tower of London and London Zoo .

Please see our full listing of your choices of Big Bus plus top London attraction

Big Bus + attraction through Big Bus website

In addition, through the Big Bus official website you can also add on tickets to: Madame Tussauds , Tower of London and London Eye Fast Track .

Tootbus and add-on attraction in London

Tootbus don't currently offer any add-on attractions but they do offer alternative tours such as an Evening Tour , Bar Bus and a very popular Kids tour .

LONDON'S OPEN TOP HOP-ON, HOP-OFF SIGHTSEEING TOUR PRICING 2024

All the hop-on bus companies have permanently discounted online prices, (compared with walk-up prices) which are between 10 - 15% off.

Prices are seasonal and variable and prices above are based on low season prices. During school holidays prices are typically higher.

To be sure you are getting the best possible price it is advisable to check our prices above against the hop-on bus companies' websites as they occasionally run sales throughout the year:

Tootbus official website

Big Bus official website

Golden Tours official website

Tootbus offer cheaper tickets, which are bus only, no river cruise. Tootbus offer this for a 24, 48 or 72-hr period and call this ticket 'London Discovery'.

Top of the page

London's hop-on hop-off sightseeing buses - previous questions answered by Bob

At present we are unable to maintain the discuss service but you can contact us using the Contact Us link at the bottom of each page. We have decided to leave the answers here as they are useful for many of the questions we receive. If you cannot find an answer to your question, we'll be happy to hear from you.

POPULAR LONDON ATTRACTIONS - ADVANCE PURCHASE AND/OR FAST TRACK TICKETS

Cafes and Getaways

10 best london bus tours for the ultimate sightseeing experience.

Last updated on September 9th, 2023

London , one of the most visited cities in the world, is steeped in history, iconic landmarks, and diverse culture. Whether you are visiting for a short time or would love to see the best of London on a return trip, bus tours are a great way to take in the UK capital’s charm.

Since bus tours in London are one of the most iconic things to do, there are dozens of companies and varieties to choose from. You can find pretty much any kind of tour from leisurely afternoon tea to spooky encounters. And best of all, for those who already have the London Pass, you can experience some of these for free!  

Not sure which is the best fit for you? I’ve curated a list of the 10 best London Bus Tours that are sure to offer a memorable experience. In addition, check out some other popular guided tours of London!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure for more information.

Table of Contents

• 1 What is a London Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour?
• 2.1 Big Bus Tours – Best London Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tours
• 2.2 TootBus Tour – Best London Bus Tours for Families
• 2.3 Golden Tours – Best Overall Variety of Experiences
• 3.1 Gastronomy Bus Tour
• 3.2 London Evening Tour
• 3.3 Day Tours from London by Bus
• 3.4 Harry Potter Bus Tour
• 3.5 Afternoon Tea Bus Tour
• 3.6 Spooky London Tour
• 3.7 Shakespeare Themed Tour
• 4.1 Thames River Cruises
• 4.2 Walking Tours
• 5 London Bus Tours FAQs
• 6 Conclusion
• 7 Pin it for Later

What is a London Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour?

A hop-on-hop-off bus tour allows you the flexibility to stop at multiple locations. Unlike most tours which require you to stay on the entire time, you are free to get off and back on when and where you choose. In short, these bus tours are similar to taking an ordinary bus, but with the addition of live commentary from knowledgeable guides along the way. 

For those looking for a brief overview of each attraction, a bus tour is a terrific option. And some include additional perks like a free walking tour or Thames River Cruise. Although they do not include admission to the sites themselves, bus tours are a great way to see several iconic landmarks in a short period. And if the weather is not ideal, you can still explore London at your own pace. Plus, after several days of walking around London, it is nice to be able to get off your feet.

Best London Hop-on-Hop-off Bus Tour Companies

Big bus tours – best london hop-on-hop-off bus tours.

Recommended Tour: Essential Ticket

Big Bus is one of the most popular when it comes to the best hop-on-hop-off London bus tours. They allow the flexibility to get off and on as you choose and offer routes that pass by London’s most famous attractions. From the London Eye to St. Paul’s Cathedral, you can knock off the city’s main attractions in just a couple of hours. 

To make your experience run as smoothly as possible, they have a downloadable sightseeing app. View information about the attractions on your route, check in on upcoming buses, and search for nearby restaurants and landmarks all from your phone. 

Big Bus Tours’ most popular Essential Ticket allows access to their buses for 48 hours and comes with additional perks. Purchasing this hop-on-hop-off bus ticket gives you free access to three guided walking tours, and river cruise.

Book a Big Bus Tour in London

TootBus Tour – Best London Bus Tours for Families

Recommended Tour: London Discovery

With the help of their trusty app, TOOTBus Tours has some of the most diverse selection of itineraries around. In total, TootBus has seven different tours available including the Bar Bus, London by Night, and private bus hire. 

The company has developed its tours with families in mind. Their hop-on-hop-off tour includes both adult and kid commentary. TootBus offers specialized kid’s tours that are created to be engaging and informative. As the tour is 45 minutes in length, it is the perfect length of time for families with small children. 

Looking for a 1-3 day bus tour? The most popular Discovery Tour allows you the flexibility of three different routes and the ability to get on and off as you choose. One of the aspects that puts this tour ahead of the competition is the late hours available. The yellow routes run until 8:00 pm, unlike other companies that stop operations much earlier.

Book a TootBus Tour in London

Golden Tours – Best Overall Variety of Experiences

Recommend Tour: Hop-on-Hop-Off Tour

Gold Tours offers three different routes as well as theme experiences and walking tours of London. They also provide family packages which can save you a lot of money if you have a family of four or more. 

Golden Tours provides 24 to 72-hour ticket options with the ability to cancel if needed. Your guide will give you interesting facts along the way, but you can also use a free audio guide if you prefer listening at your own pace. All tickets come with a free walking tour, but you can choose to include a Thames River cruise for a small additional fee. 

Looking for something other than a hop-on-hop-off tour? Golden Tours has a plethora of non-stop tours both in and out of London. One of the most popular non-stop tours is the two-hour Open Top Bus Tour . You will visit many of the same attractions but with the option of going during the day or at night.

Book a Golden Tours Tour in London

Best Guided London Bus Tours

Gastronomy bus tour.

Recommended Tour: BUSTRONOME 6-Course Luxury Dinner Tour

BUSTRONOME has revolutionized the tour scene. This unique experience combines the love of cuisine with a tour of London’s iconic sites. Guests are served a 6-course meal (4-courses for lunch) inspired by traditional French and English dishes. All while exploring the city on a luxury, glass-roofed bus. And what makes this culinary experience remarkable is that all dishes are cooked fresh onboard.

Guests can choose from several menus and options, including an upgraded food and wine pairing. Once onboard, you will be wined and dined, while you sit back, listen to some ambient music, and enjoy the city views from the panoramic terrace. 

• Ticket Prices: Adult £70.00 – £120.00; Child: £40.00 – £50.00
• Commentary: Audio Guide
• Tour Duration: 2.5 hours
• Dates and Times: 12:00 pm or 7:00 pm dining options available daily
• Languages Offered: English and French

London Evening Tour

Recommended Tour: London By Night Bus Tour . 

Although London is beautiful by day, it comes alive at night. So what better way to see some of London’s top attractions than when they are lit up? Pass by the Tower of London, Harrods, Trafalgar Square, and other favorite attractions on the Londu by Night Bus Tour. 

You will also get a chance to experience the neon lights of Piccadilly Circus, all from the top of an open-roof bus. And with the help of your guide, you will learn all about these fascinating places in a fun and lively setting.

• Ticket Prices: Adult £29.00, Child £16.00, Family £78.00
• Commentary: Live guide
• Tour Duration: 90 minutes
• Dates and Times: Daily from 7:30 pm – 9:20 pm (10:15 pm in the summer)
• Languages Offered: English (Audio guides in 7 languages)

Day Tours from London by Bus

Recommend Tour: Evan Evans Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath Full-Day Tour

Are you looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city center? Then take a guided bus tour to the countryside! There are over 40 different tour options available that will take you as far as Paris. Other popular sites include Blenheim Palace, Oxford , Cotswolds, and the filming location for Downton Abbey.

One of Evan Evans’s popular tours offers a scenic route to Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath. The full-day tour from London includes transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and entrance tickets to various attractions (optional). 

Your experience will begin with a tour of Windsor Castle, which is included in the price of your tour. You can explore on your own, with the guidance of your guide. Your second stop will be the city of Bath. Your tour will take you past several architectural sights before stopping at the Roman Baths to explore and have time on your own for lunch in the city. From there, hop back on the bus to Stonehenge before heading back to London. 

• Ticket Prices: £95 – £142
• Tour Duration: 11.5 hours
• Languages Offered: English

Harry Potter Bus Tour

Recommend Tour: Brit Movie Tours

You can’t talk about London without including a Harry Potter tour. London is filled with iconic places that were used as filming locations in the movies. So what better way to explore the magical world of Harry Potter than on an iconic double-decker bus? 

This themed bus tour allows you to see the movie’s key locations with the help of a guide. And unlike many similar tours, you have the opportunity to get off the bus, take photos, and explore along the way. 

Find the entrance to the Ministry of Magic, see Gringotts and 12 Grimmauld Place, and take a photo in front of Platform 9 ¾. In addition to visiting all the city’s filming locations, you will still have the opportunity to see London’s most famous landmarks. 

• Ticket Prices: Adult £32.50, Child £21.00
• Tour Duration: 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

Recommended Tour: Brigit’s Bakery Classic Afternoon Tea Tour

Two of the most iconic things to do in London are having afternoon tea and riding a double-decker bus. So, why not do both at the same time? For a leisurely and elegant London sightseeing experience, join a London Afternoon Tea Bus Tour. 

The best London bus afternoon tea is run by Brigit’s Bakery. Travel in style on a vintage Routemaster bus while indulging in some traditional English pastries. Better yet, book the bus for an afternoon around London. The company offers private hire events that can be personalized to meet your needs. 

Keep track of their upcoming events on the company’s website. In addition to the classic afternoon tea package, you can partake in themed experiences catered to adults and children.  

• Ticket Prices: Adult £45.00, Child £35.00
• Commentary: Pre-recorded 
• Tour Duration: 90 minutes. 
• Dates and Times: Daily from 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Spooky London Tour

Recommended Tour: The Ghost Bus Tour

Looking for a unique and spooky bus tour through London? Hop on the legendary Necrobus and explore the dark and haunting history of the city. Discover the gruesome secrets of London with the help of actors who bring the sites to life.

Your conductor offers live commentary along the way as you dive into London’s darker history. In addition to the usual historical facts of the landmarks you pass, your guide with throw in some of the darker and more gruesome stories you would miss on just any other guided bus tour. 

• Ticket Prices: Adult £25.00, Child £17.00, Family 63.00
• Tour Duration: 1 hour and 15 minutes. 
• Dates and Times: Daily from 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Shakespeare Themed Tour

Recommended Tour: Golden Tours Day Trip to Stratford and Cotswolds

For you literary lovers, experience the life of the Elizabethan area with this spectacular Shakespeare bus tour. Your tour guides will take you to the key locations connected to his life including his birthplace at Stratford-upon-Avon.

Some of the important stops include the childhood home of Shakespeare as well as the home of his wife, Anne Hathaway. Along the way, your guide will deliver some captivating stories about the writer and the period that inspired his plays. 

The second half of the day will be spent in two of Cotswold’s prettiest villages. Explore on your own, grab lunch, and take advantage of the breathtaking photo opportunities before heading back to London. 

• Ticket Prices: Adult £126.0, Child £115.00, Family £475.00
• Commentary: Live Guide
• Tour Duration: 10 hours

Additional Guided Tours in London

Thames river cruises.

The Thames River Sightseeing Company specializes in river tours and has several experiences available for sightseers. One of the most popular tours is from Westminster to Greenwich. You can purchase a one-way or round-trip ticket for as little as £15 for adults. Here are some other popular river cruises:

• Speed Boat Tour (Highly Rated) 
• River Thames Dinner Cruise 
• Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Cruise  
• Ghost Walk and River Thames Boat Ride  

Walking Tours

Walking tours are another great way to learn about the city’s history and culture. Many also offer entry into London’s attractions which guided bus tours do not. Walking tours give you an indepth account of London’s history through the expert knowledge of a guide. Here are some top-rated London walking tours:

• Magical London: Harry Potter Guided Walking Tour
• London: Historical Pub Walking Tour
• Shakespeare Private Guided Tour
• Kensington Palace Gardens Tour with Royal High Tea
• Westminster Walking Tour with Churchill’s War Rooms
• Secret British Food Tour

London Bus Tours FAQs

Are Big Bus Tours in London worth it?

There is no straight answer to this because it all depends on your sightseeing goals. If you want to see the main sites in a short amount of time or do not want to walk everywhere, then London bus tours are a great way to do that.

They can also be a great budget option for learning about the city’s landmarks without paying for the hefty admission tickets. 

On the flip side, bus tours mean getting stuck in London traffic (there’s lots!) and only just skimming the historical surface of the landmarks you pass. 

How long does a London bus tour take?

Each bus tour has its route and number of stops. Tours can be as short as 1 hour and up to around 3 depending on which you choose. On average though, you can expect to spend an hour and a half on a tour. But if you join a hop-on-hop-off bus tour you can simply jump from one location to the next if you want. 

How much does a bus tour cost in London?

Prices range depending on the company you choose, but you can expect to spend anywhere between £33-50 per ticket. Purchasing a London Pass can be a great money-saving option if you plan on visiting a large number of attractions. Hop-on-hop-off bus tours are included in these passes for the duration of your purchase. 

How do you pay for a bus tour?

You will purchase tickets online unless you plan on joining a hop-on-hop-off London bus tour. You can save some money buying them in advance, and guarantee yourself a seat. Hop-on-hop-off London bus tours give you a little more flexibility by being able to pay on the bus if you’d prefer.

London’s bus tours offer a variety of themes and experiences for all types of interests. This list of the bestselling London Bus Tours is a great place to start for a taste of the city. If you’ve had the chance to joina fun and unique tour of London, I’d live to hear about it! Leave a comment below about your experience. 

Enjoyed this post? Here are some other London guides!  

• Simple Tips for Visiting London on a Budget
• 25 Best Things to Do in London
• Ultimate London to Oxford Day Trip Itinerary
• 100+ London Captions to Inspire You

Travel Planning Resources

BOOK YOUR FLIGHT |  Skyscanner is the top search engine for finding and booking flights. They price check over 1,200 travel sites to help you find the best prices. 

VIEW ACCOMMODATIONS |  For booking hotels and vacation rentals Booking.com is a top resource . They offer some of the cheapest rates and different payment options.

PLAN TRANSPORTATION

• Rental Car: Discover Cars is my go-to site when booking rentals. They work with hundreds of companies worldwide to help you find the best car for your needs and budget.
• Trains: Trainline is the best choice if you are traveling throughout England. They work with 270 companies for 45 countries in Europe and the UK. 
• Bus: Omio is an easy website to use for booking train and bus tickets. Similar to Skyscanner, the website looks at hundreds of transport companies to get you the best deals. 

SCHEDULE YOUR TOURS | There are many top companies available in Europe. Get Your Guide is one of the best sites for tours, excursions, and activities. Viator is another terrific website for all types of experiences. 

GET TRAVEL INSURANCE | Having travel insurance is always a good idea. World Nomads is one of the top travel insurance companies.  It will cover you if you must cancel your trip or if something unexpected happens. 

Check out the resource page for additional travel planning resources.

Pin it for Later

Welcome to Cafes and Getaways. I’ll be sharing details on my latest travel destinations, as well as tips and tricks to help you plan your next adventure.

FEATURED POSTS

Best Beaches in Positano, Italy to Visit

10 Wonderful Day Trips from Oxford

The Ultimate One Day in London Itinerary

You’ll Also Like

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Cafes and Getaways is a travel blog aimed to inspire and help readers explore new destinations. 

©2023 Cafes and Getaways

FOLLOW ON SOCIAL

Last Updated on September 9, 2023 by Cafes and Getaways

Avoid These Tourist Traps In London And Visit These Destinations Instead

O ne of the world's greatest cities, London is packed with tourist attractions so impressive that you'll want to add them all to your itinerary. From the Tower of London to Buckingham Palace to the Churchill War Rooms, the list of unmissable landmarks seems endless. Don't worry, though -- it's possible to visit most of them in just a two-day trip . When you're on a tight schedule, it's important to avoid time- and money-wasting tourist traps in favor of visiting sites that are worthy of your attention. 

Whether it's an overrated and overpriced wax museum, a kitschy dungeon experience, or a super crowded viewpoint, there are many places to avoid visiting in the U.K.'s heady capital. The confusing part? Some of them top multiple lists of must-see attractions. That's where we come in. 

As someone who lived in this captivating English city for six years, I have first-hand knowledge of the biggest tourist traps to avoid when traveling to London. Plus, I can offer more impressive (and often less costly) destinations to visit instead. Don't want to take my word for it? No problem. I combined my first-hand knowledge with reviews and suggestions from other locals to create this list.

Read more: 50 Underrated Tourist Destinations Around The World

Skip Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours And Ride A London Bus

While hop-on hop-off bus tours can be a convenient way to explore a big city, they often come with a hefty price tag. If the tour is based in London, you can expect to pay over $50 per adult for a one-day pass. Instead, board a London bus, which will cost less than $7 for a day of travel. Bus fare for one ride is about $2 and the daily cap is under $7. To pay for their ride, visitors must use a contactless card or an Oyster Card, the visitor's version of which can be purchased online and mailed to your home before you leave.

Double-decker London buses offer spectacular city views, with many routes passing right by London's landmark attractions. One of our faves is the historic Routemaster Bus 15, which we suggest boarding at the Tower of London. Hop on at Great Tower Street (Stop TT) and ride west to Charing Cross Station. Be sure to sit up top for the best views along this heritage route -– you can't miss St. Paul's Cathedral and Trafalgar Square. 

Bus 24 is another great option for sightseers. Hop on at Victoria Station and ride it to Camden High Street. Along the way, you'll pass Westminster Abbey, the Horse Guard's Parade, Trafalgar Square, and Downing Street. Grab a bite at Camden Market when you disembark or stay on until you reach Hampstead Heath where you can catch unbeatable views of the city.

Skip Madame Tussauds And Visit Buckingham Palace

It may tout itself as a top London attraction, but Madame Tussauds would be more honest if they said they were the top rip-off site. Booking in advance will save some money -- the standard online rate for an adult begins at just over $47 versus the walk-up price, which begins at almost $60. But that's still a lot of quid to dish out for wandering around an overcrowded and noisy space filled with okay-ish wax replicas of A- and B-list celebs. Yes, it's fun to take photos with the royal family and fool friends into thinking you met them IRL, but is it worth it? We don't think so.

Instead, we suggest visiting Buckingham Palace for a potential King Charles III sighting. Realistically, you probably won't spy a royal outside the palace, but at least you'll see a historic monument up close. Celebrities more your thing? Book a reservation at one of the city's most popular restaurants. Chiltern Firehouse has hosted acting greats Jennifer Lawrence and Bradley Cooper as well as soccer superstar David Beckham. 34 Mayfair is another good bet for great food and celeb spotting. Imelda Staunton and royal family members have all eaten here.

Skip Changing Of The Guard And Visit The Queen's Gallery

While you should add Buckingham Palace to your list of must-see London tourist attractions, you may want to avoid a visit during the Changing of the Guard. This formal ceremony marks the change between the old guard (on-duty soldiers) and new guard (soldiers taking over duty) for the royal palaces. Marching with a band from Wellington Barracks to the Palace, the new guard will arrive at the palace at about 10:45 a.m. A well-known event, this is a big tourist draw, which means you can expect hefty crowds queuing up an hour or more in advance, as well as pickpockets who arrive to take advantage of the chaotic atmosphere. This tourist trap, which takes place every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, is one you'll be happy to miss. Sadly, watching this famed ceremony these days feels more like witnessing an overhyped marching band than it does an esteemed historic ritual.

Instead, ditch the crowds and glimpse art from the Royal Collection in the Queen's Gallery or visit the Royal Mews , where you can see the royal stables and the 260-year-old Gold State Coach used at King Charles III's Coronation. The Mews are open Thursday through Monday from early March to early November. Neighboring St. James Park is another interesting place to visit. One of London's famed Royal Parks, it is bordered by three palaces and boasts a fabulous view of Buckingham Palace in particular.

Skip Platform 9 ¾ At King's Cross Station And Visit Warner Brothers Studio Tour London

If you're traveling with a Harry Potter-obsessed kid, you may want to visit Platform 9 ¾ at King's Cross Station. But if you're alone, or with other adults who couldn't care less, we advise you to skip this overrated tourist trap. If you're already planning to be in King's Cross Station and have time to scope out this attraction, that's one thing; but if you're traveling there with the sole purpose of visiting this site, think twice. 

Set between platforms 9 and 10 (obvs) this point of interest includes nothing but a brick wall denoted with a sign. Stuck into the wall is part of a trolley loaded with fake suitcases and an empty owl cage. Those hoping for a quick photo and to score some Potter swag will be pleased;  the Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 ¾ is open daily, even on bank holidays, and it sells everything from wands to clothes to makeup. 

For those who'd rather have an unforgettable and truly magical Harry Potter experience, though, head to Warner Brothers Studio Tour London -- The Making of Harry Potter in nearby Leavesden. Instead of merely looking at a wall, visitors can board the Hogwarts Express, "fly" on a broomstick, walk through the Great Hall, and explore the Forbidden Forest. Step foot in Diagon Alley, try a Butterbeer, or check out some of the film's famous props and costumes. You won't be sorry you visited.

Skip London Dungeon And Visit The Tower Of London

No matter how much the kids beg you to visit the London Dungeon, stay strong and just say "no." This kitschy tourist trap is a waste of your hard-earned money (tickets start at over $37 for adults) and it's so hokey you'll roll your eyes more times than you can count on both hands. This pitiful attraction is peppered with costume-clad actors who like to scream and cackle and its two rides (the Drop Dead: Drop Ride and the Tyrant Boat Ride) will make you wish you were at Walt Disney World; even "It's a Small World" would be more enjoyable. An escape room has also been added to increase the venue's income stream –- it costs $153 for a private game for six people.

Want a historic experience with a side of chills? Head to the Tower of London instead. There, you can tour the Torture at the Tower Exhibition, where you can get up close and personal with the stretching machine (a.k.a. the rack) and other ancient torture devices in the Lower Wakefield Tower. The Bloody Tower is another point of interest you won't want to miss. The most infamous prison on the grounds, this is where you'll learn about the alleged murder of two young princes -– Edward V and his little brother Richard –- by their uncle, Richard III.

Skip The London Bridge Experience And Visit Churchill War Rooms

Looking for a good spooking? Do yourself a favor and skip The London Bridge Experience. A tourist trap designed to bring the city's macabre history to life with the help of actors with a penchant for jump scares, you can expect to meet zombie-like versions of ghastly heavyweights Jack the Ripper and William Wallace during your visit. Tickets cost about $37 for the experience, which takes anywhere between 35 and 50 minutes. That means you could be spending more than $1 a minute. Entry fees also include a trip to the London Tombs, deemed the U.K.'s "best scare attraction," according to their site . Zombified dentists, doctors, and creepy clowns await visitors in the lower vaults of this venue, ready to pounce and scream in your face.

Instead, we suggest visiting the Churchill War Rooms. Also located underground, this fascinating historic facility is part of the Imperial War Museums. Located in the basement of Whitehall, this once-secret complex was used by former Prime Minister Winston Churchill, top government ministers, and military planners to conduct meetings and develop plans during the country's war effort during World War II. Known as the Cabinet War Rooms, this clandestine spot was used daily during the war, until August 16, 1945. Or experience that stomach drop feeling by walking the glass floors at Tower Bridge. Set nearly 138 feet above the Thames, the views are both terrifying and impressive. Tickets cost under $16 per adult. 

Skip The Sherlock Holmes Museum And Visit The Sherlock Holmes Pub

We don't recommend visiting the Sherlock Holmes Museum unless you have a detective-obsessed kid who doesn't realize that the famed character is fictional. Set inside a Georgian townhouse at 221B Baker Street in Marylebone, this four-story museum has been open since 1990. Inside lie antique furnishings mentioned in the books and pretty creepy-looking mannequins. Tickets cost over $21 which isn't exorbitant, especially for London, but considering you won't be there long (the museum's quite small), this seems a bit of a waste.

Instead, head to The Sherlock Holmes  in St James. Self-described as a "Victorian-themed public house," this watering hole features a recreated version of the famed fictional detective's apartment upstairs. The entire pub is dotted with references to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's beloved books, making it easy to feel as if you're within the pages. Plus, there's a beer garden –- the museum certainly doesn't have one of those.

Skip The SEA Life London Aquarium And Visit The London Zoo

You'll find everything you'd expect to see at the SEA Life London Aquarium. From penguins to sharks to turtles, they're all there. And as far as aquariums go, this is a pretty good one. But when you're in one of the world's greatest cities that lies on the banks of a river, not an ocean, there are plenty of better things to see. Standard tickets to the Sea Life London Aquarium cost $24 online or $51 at the door. Again, that's pretty on par for London attractions, however, it's a steep price to pay for a tourist trap. 

Instead, visit London Zoo in Regent's Park. The oldest scientific zoo in the world, this family-friendly attraction was opened in 1828 for fellows of the Zoological Society of London. In 1847, the public was invited to visit. Today, the zoo is home to 14,0000 animals including a giant, 425-pound silverback gorilla, Sumatran tigers, and Linne's two-toed sloths. While tickets aren't cheap (an adult will cost about $40 to visit on a weekday), it's easy to spend a whole day here. Or, if you aren't willing to part with that much cash, visit the smaller, and lesser-known, Battersea Park Children's Zoo . Adult tickets are more reasonably priced, at $16. There are over 100 animals at this little zoo, including wallabies, meerkats, otters, and lemurs, and plenty of opportunities to interact with animals like coatis, donkeys, and goats.

Skip The Shard And Visit Level 10 At The Tate Modern

There's no denying that The Shard is impressive. In fact, it's one of the most spectacular buildings in the world . The viewing platform was opened by the queen on February 1, 2013, with the main restaurants (Aqua, Oblix, and Hutong) following suit that summer. Set across the Thames from another bucket-list-worthy London building, the Gherkin, this engineering masterpiece towers 1,016 feet above the city and boasts 11,000 glass panels. 

Dubbed a "vertical city," there's plenty to do inside, like spend serious coin on a meal with a view, or zip up one of the 44 elevators to the viewing platform. That 360-degree view will cost you, though -- about $36, or more if you add a glass of champagne. And if you visit on a day that's rainy or misty (honestly, London is often both of those things), you're basically paying for a ride in a lift.

Instead, head to Level 10 at Tate Modern, where you can enjoy a drink or snack (including sandwiches and salads) while ogling the impressive view of the Thames, St. Paul's Cathedral, the BT Tower, and Blackfriar's Bridge. You won't have to pay a thing unless you choose to grab a bite or a warm cuppa. The Skygarden at 20 Fenchurch Street is another must-visit for a free skyline vista. The highest public garden in London, this leafy space is as stunning as its views are remarkable.

Skip The London Eye And Visit Hamstead Heath

We are well aware that some of you will disagree with this addition to our list of tourist traps to avoid when traveling to London, but hear us out. Yes, the London Eye is iconic. Yes, it offers fantastic views of the city. And yes, it's deemed a top London attraction you won't want to miss . That said, visiting this popular landmark can cause more headaches than enjoyment. First created as a temporary point of interest, this 443-foot-tall, "cantilevered observation wheel" is the largest of its kind in the world, according to its website . And if you catch a ride on one of its 32 pods on a sunny day, you can see up to 25 miles in all directions. The problem is that thousands of others have the same idea, which means you could stand in line for more than two hours on a particularly busy day. Standard tickets start at over $32 online or more than $57 for a walk-up.

Instead, visit Hampstead Heath for a unique city view you probably never knew existed. Parliament Hill stands over 321 feet tall, making it one of the highest natural points in the city. If the weather is ideal, you can see to the Gherkin, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the Houses of Parliament. Speaking of the Gherkin, it's another great spot to enjoy unparalleled views. Grab a drink and snack at Iris Bar at Searcys at the Gherkin , then relax with a side order of stunning vistas.

Skip Harrods And Visit Peter Jones And Liberty

Harrods is to London as the Colosseum is to Rome -– a historic icon that's become synonymous with the city. The world's most famous luxury department store, this Knightsbridge institution is impossible to miss -– it's eight floors tall and an entire block long, not to mention over one million square feet in size. Inside, you'll find 20 restaurants, a beauty salon, a bank, and 300 separate departments selling over 5,000 brands. You'll also see price tags so high you might suffer sticker shock. Due to its notoriety, Harrods is often packed with tourists, making it difficult to enjoy the plush interior.

If you're hoping to shop during your London holiday, there are plenty of excellent places to visit instead. Sloane Square is home to the Peter Jones & Partners department store. Owned by John Lewis, this vast shop is filled with enough enticing merchandise that you'll find it tough to leave empty-handed. Grab a bite at The Top Floor Restaurant (on the 6 th floor) for captivating views of Chelsea and beyond.

Liberty is another recognizable landmark located on Regent Street. A heritage-listed building; this stunning Tudor-style store is as beautiful outside as it is indoors. Built between 1922 and 1924, it is worth a visit, if only to admire the impressive architectural features (the price tags here are also quite shocking).

Our Ranking Methodology

Having lived in London for six years with two young children, I visited pretty much every tourist attraction the city has. From renowned points of interest like the Tower of London to remarkable museums, I've seen the top sightseeing destinations multiple times, including many kitschy tourist traps I wish I'd skipped. To create this list, I used my experiences at these attractions to determine which locales are tourist traps that should be avoided and I included alternatives that are more than worthy of your time and money. I also consulted reviews from other locals and travelers, as well as their tips, to ensure the list is solid.

Read the original article on Explore .