sightseeing tour in london

Protect Your Trip »

21 best london tours of 2024.

From exploring Harry Potter movie sets to cruising on the River Thames, these are the best tours of London.

The Best London Tours

Courtesy of Secret Food Tours

If you're looking for the best things to do in London but unsure where to begin, consider a guided tour of the city. Many sightseeing excursions cover the highlights (think Buckingham Palace and Tower Bridge), while other London tours focus on Harry Potter, Jack the Ripper and day trips to Stonehenge. Read on to discover a variety of well-rated tours in London.

Secret Food Tours – London Bridge

Price: Adults from 79 pounds (about $100); kids from 69 pounds (about $88) Duration: 3 to 3.5 hours

British food often gets a bad reputation, but this tour will change your mind. You'll visit seven different eateries, sampling everything from sausage rolls to sticky toffee pudding.

The tour begins at bustling Borough Market, where you'll snack on a bacon and egg bap (the U.K. version of a breakfast sandwich) as your guide tells you about the history of the market, as well as an overview of the city's history and culture. Other stops include a historic pub for a cheese tasting paired with English cider. And – as is standard on a Secret Food Tour – there will be a secret dish offered somewhere along the way. As you eat your way through London, you'll also enjoy great views of the city skyline, London Bridge and Tower Bridge. Past participants appreciate the quantity and quality of food provided, as well as the entertaining guides.

Tours depart several times a day between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Secret Food Tours also offers tours of the Shoreditch district, among other areas.

Check prices & availability on:

BrakeAway Bike Tours – The Secret London Bike Tour

Price: Adults from 32 pounds (about $41); kids from 26 pounds (about $33) Duration: 3.5 hours

This London bike tour leads riders past famous sights, such as the Tower of London and Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, but also explores lesser-known features of the city, including its street art and secret passageways. It also includes a 20-minute stop at Brick Lane. Reviewers extol the fun guides and say the tour is ideal if you want a break from the tourist crowds. Plus, they say it's a great value for the money.

Tours are offered daily from late March through October at 3 p.m. Tour prices include bikes, helmets and rain ponchos. Children 9 and younger are not permitted on the tour, and groups are capped at 12 participants. For a more traditional tour of London, consider the company's Grand London Bike Tour.

Liquid History Tours – Drink London Tour

Price: From 25 pounds (about $32) Duration: 3 to 4 hours

If the idea of walking – and drinking – in the footsteps of literary luminaries like Shakespeare and Dickens appeals, this is the tour for you. On the Drink London Tour, you'll walk along the "Street of Shame" (Fleet Street) for approximately 2 miles and stop in at least four historic pubs, some centuries old. You'll stroll by St. Paul's Cathedral, peek into secluded courtyards and listen to tales about Sweeney Todd. Travelers love the stories the guides share just as much as they enjoy drinking the local brews.

Note that the cost of drinks is not included, and reservations are required for this tour. Participants must be at least 18 years old. If you're traveling with a group, consider one of Liquid History Tours' private excursions.

The Ghost Bus Tours

Price: Adults from 25 pounds (about $32); kids from 17 pounds (about $22) Duration: 75 minutes

Ride a vintage double-decker bus for a spooky peek into London's lesser-known history with Ghost Bus Tours. Mixing horror with a fair bit of comedy – an aspect reviewers love – the actors-turned-guides describe the haunted history of top attractions, such as the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey, among other famous landmarks. Both visitors and locals value the obscure stories guides share.

Tours last approximately 75 minutes and run several times each evening, though departure times vary by day.

London Bicycle Tour Company – The Classic Tour

Price: Adults from 33.95 pounds (about $43); kids from 24.95 pounds (about $32) Duration: 3 hours

Travelers consistently give the London Bicycle Tour Company high marks for its fun guides who are vigilant about ensuring riders' safety. On the Classic Tour – which travels about 8 miles – you'll breeze past Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square, Banksy Tunnel (where you'll likely witness artists at work) and other local landmarks. Your tour guide will offer commentary and give you plenty of time to stop and take photos. Children need to be at least 10 years old and stable riders to participate.

Tours are offered daily at 10:30 a.m. To admire the city lights at night, consider the company's daily sunset ride.

Courtesy of Alternative London

Alternative London – Street Art Walking Tour

Price: Adults from 20 pounds ($25); kids from 14 pounds (about $18) Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours

Promising to show you things London guidebooks don't cover, Alternative London's walking tour takes you to East London, where guides showcase the area's street art and discuss its culture and history. The company employs street artists and other creative types as guides so you get an insider's look into the community, something travelers say makes the tour unique. No two tours are alike because every guide has their favorite route and spots to highlight. Past tourgoers say the tour is fun and full of interesting insights.

Tours run at 11 a.m. on Saturdays, Sundays and Tuesdays, as well as 2 p.m. on Fridays. Outings are limited to 20 people. Looking to explore more of London's hidden spots? Alternative London offers a bike tour that emphasizes street art.

The English Bus – Stonehenge, Bath & A Secret Place Tour

Price: From 134 pounds (about $170) Duration: 12 hours

After you've had your fill of London's hustle, take a day trip to the countryside for a tour of Stonehenge . On this small tour of 16 people or fewer, you'll depart London in a Mercedes minibus and head to both Stonehenge and Bath. At Stonehenge, you'll have time to walk around the ancient stones and marvel at their enormity. In Bath, you'll have time to stop for lunch and either explore on your own or take a guided tour. The twist to this tour is that you'll also visit a secret spot on the way back to London, which is only revealed when you arrive.

The English Bus's vehicle, with panoramic windows and a glass roof, is small enough to go down back roads and through the countryside – a feature travelers love. Reviewers are also complimentary of the guides, who they describe as friendly, educational and well-versed in British history.

Tours depart daily at 8:45 a.m. and return to central London around 8:30 p.m. Tickets do not include food, drinks or admission to Stonehenge. The English Bus also operates daylong trips to the Cotswolds, Oxford and Stratford-upon-Avon, among other destinations.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

Price: Adults from 53.50 pounds ($68); kids from 43 pounds ($55) Duration: 3.5 to 7 hours

If you're a fan of Harry Potter, you already know that this London tour is a must – and previous tourgoers confirm it lives up to the hype. The Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter offers a behind-the-scenes look at sets, props and costumes used in the film franchise. Walk through the Great Hall – which is set for dinner – and explore Diagon Alley and Platform 9 3/4. Other exhibits include Creature Effects, where you can see how characters like Buckbeak the Hippogriff and Aragog were brought to life. You can even enjoy a butterbeer in the Backlot Café. Special exhibits are also displayed throughout the year and around the holidays.

Plan to spend at least half a day to fully experience the collection and discover its intricate details. Themed packages and add-on experiences are also available. Tickets must be purchased in advance.

City Experiences – Evening Cruise on the River Thames

Price: From 30 pounds (about $38) Duration: 2 hours

City Experiences offers evening cruises on the River Thames, a lovely way to end your day in London. Upon boarding, a server greets you with a complimentary glass of prosecco, and hors d'oeuvres are served throughout the two-hour cruise. You'll enjoy live background music as you take in the sights from your seat on the open-air upstairs deck or inside the saloon with picture windows. Previous travelers say they enjoyed the cruise, noting it is relaxing and affords spectacular views for photos.

In the warm weather months, cruises run daily at 6:30 p.m.; beginning in October, cruises are available Thursday through Sunday only. Patrons must be age 13 or older to join the tour. Other London river cruises offered by City Experiences include a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing cruise.

Courtesy of Jack the Ripper Tour

The Jack the Ripper Tour With Ripper-Vision

Price: Adults from 18 pounds (about $23); kids from 10 pounds (about $13) Duration: 2 hours

This offbeat Jack the Ripper tour has a unique spin: the company uses what it calls "Ripper-Vision" to tell the story of the notorious murderer. A hand-held projector, "Ripper-Vision" displays pictures on walls and sides of buildings throughout the tour, allowing the guides to show (and tell) all about the infamous serial killer. You'll visit the actual murder sites where Jack the Ripper commited his crimes, and will get a glimpse of what London was like in the late 1800s. Tourgoers say guides are informative, entertaining and skilled at retelling the stories of Jack the Ripper's escapades.

Tours are offered nightly at 7:30 p.m., with an additional 5 p.m. tour on select days. The company also offers Jack the Ripper pub tours.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Eating Europe – East End Food Tour

Price: Adults from 85 pounds (about $108); kids from 70 pounds (about $89) Duration: 3.5 hours

Eating Europe's East End food tour is a 3.5-hour exploration of one of London's most diverse and interesting neighborhoods. Participants will enjoy food at six restaurants, pubs, markets, bakeries and shops. Along with classic (and award-winning) fish and chips, you'll also sample some of the city's best curry, bagels and pastries. Reviewers rave about the delicious and varied offerings on this tour and encourage future participants to pace themselves so they can enjoy every bite.

Tours run throughout the day, every day, beginning at 11 a.m. There is a maximum of 12 people per tour. Eating Europe also offers tours of Soho and Borough Market.

Fat Tire Tours – Royal London Bike Tour

Price: Adults from 35 pounds (about $44); kids from 29 pounds (about $37) Duration: 4 hours

Fascinated with the monarchy? On this approximately four-hour cycling excursion from Fat Tire Tours, expert guides lead you to spots like Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben and Kensington Palace, all while sharing intrigue and stories about British royalty. Midway through the tour, there is a half-hour lunch break near Trafalgar Square (at your own expense). Bikers say the tour provides a great way to see iconic sights and describe guides as informative and friendly.

Rides are offered daily at 10:30 a.m.; an additional 3:30 p.m. tour may also be available depending on the day and month. Schedules vary during the winter. Travelers should note reservations are required for this tour, and helmets are provided. Fat Tire Tours also offers cycling tours along the Thames, bike rentals and private tours.

Evan Evans Tours – Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath

Price: Adults from 95 pounds (about $121); kids from 85 pounds (about $108) Duration: 11 hours

The first stop on this day trip from London is Windsor Castle – the largest occupied castle in the world. Here, you'll have time to stroll the immaculate grounds and pay a visit to St George's Chapel, the location of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's 2018 nuptials. From there, you'll head to the city of Bath, England – a UNESCO World Heritage Site that's home to the world-famous Roman Baths. The last stop of the day is Stonehenge. In all, the tour lasts about 11 hours. Reviewers rave about the entertaining, passionate guides, but some do bemoan the pace of the tour, saying certain parts felt rushed. However, all agree this is a great way to cross some must-see landmarks off your bucket list.

Tours depart Victoria Coach Station daily at 8 a.m. Evan Evans Tours also operates a similar tour that stops in Oxford instead of Bath.

Courtesy of Brigit's Bakery's Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

Brigit's Bakery London – Classic Afternoon Tea Bus London Tour

Price: Adults from 45 pounds (about $57); kids from 35 pounds (about $44) Duration: 1.5 hours

Offering a unique twist on a bus tour and afternoon tea, Brigit's Bakery London's Classic Afternoon Tea Bus London Tour combines the two for a tasty outing. During the tour, you'll ride on a vintage double-decker Routemaster bus through central London, passing by Big Ben, Hyde Park, Downing Street and more. As you sightsee, servers pour tea and offer sandwiches, cakes and pastries. In addition to the tour's novelty, visitors find the prerecorded commentary entertaining and informative, and most say they enjoyed the food.

Tours, which last about 90 minutes, run several times daily and depart from either Northumberland Avenue or Victoria Coach Station. The tour accommodates several dietary restrictions, though these options may have an additional fee. Children ages 4 and younger are not permitted. Prefer gin to tea? The company also offers a Gin Lovers Afternoon Tea Bus Tour, among other options.

Tally Ho! – Landmarks and Gems Royal London Bike Tour

Price: From 55 pounds (about $70) Duration: 3.5 hours

On the London Landmarks & Gems cycling tour, Tally Ho! leads visitors to the city's major sights, while expert guides offer their insights and informative commentary – a point of praise for many reviewers. Other highlights include seeing the royal guards (and possibly the changing of the guard ceremony), spray painting in the Leake Street tunnel and grabbing a pint at a pub. The tour covers about 5 miles and travels at a leisurely pace, with time for photo stops.

Tours ride twice daily at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., though times may vary seasonally. There may only be an afternoon ride during the fall and winter months, and an additional tour at 9:30 a.m. runs during the summer months. There is a maximum of 12 people per tour. A helmet or tweed flat cap and spray paint are provided to bikers. Tally Ho! offers a variety of cycling and walking tours, including a gin "safari."

Premium Tours – Full Day London Tour

Price: Adults from 123 pounds (about $156); kids from 113 pounds (about $144) Duration: 9 hours

On Premium Tours' daylong excursion, which lasts about nine hours, you'll take a guided tour of St. Paul's Cathedral and then hopefully catch the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace (if the timing and weather are right). After you refuel with lunch (at your own expense), you'll journey to the Tower of London to view the crown jewels. Your day ends with a cruise down the Thames and an optional ride on the London Eye. Tour-takers are chauffeured to each landmark in a comfortable bus. While it is a long day, visitors say it is a great way to cover a lot of ground. Plus, they say guides are knowledgeable, humorous and friendly.

Premium Tours also offers a Magic of London tour with a similar itinerary; however, you'll stop for a cream tea at Harrods instead of a ride on the London Eye.

Thames Rockets – Ultimate London Adventure

Price: From 49.95 pounds ($63) Duration: 50 minutes

The 50-minute Ultimate London Adventure tour is a sightseeing cruise like no other. As your actor-turned-guide narrates your trip, you'll take in iconic sights along the Thames, such as the Tate Modern, the Gherkin and the Houses of Parliament. Once you get under the Tower Bridge, the speedboat captain ramps up to speeds of 30 knots (35 mph) and takes you on a thrilling ride as the music blasts and passengers shriek. Tourgoers describe it as an exhilarating, fantastic experience.

Tours depart several times daily. Keep in mind: From November through January tours are only offered Thursday through Sunday. Thames Rockets also offers adults-only evening rides, as well as longer 80-minute cruises, among other options.

Courtesy of Tour for Muggles

Tour for Muggles

Price: Adults from 17 pounds (about $22); kids from 15 pounds (about $19) Duration: 2 hours

One of the best Harry Potter tours in London , this option garners rave reviews from witches, wizards, Muggles and Squibs who appreciate both the knowledgeable tour guides and seeing their favorite "Harry Potter" locations in real life. Tour for Muggles takes visitors through London for approximately two hours to see locations where the movies were shot, as well as places that inspired author J.K. Rowling.

Tours are limited to 20 people and run several times a day Tuesday through Sunday.

Gin Journey London

Price: From 75 pounds (about $95) Duration: 4.5 hours

If you enjoy imbibing in gin, you'll love taking a tour with Gin Journey, where your expert "gin guardian" takes you to five different venues in London in a chauffeur-driven minibus. During the 4.5-hour tour, you'll sample five different gins, enjoy five gin cocktails, visit a distillery and learn all about this spirit and why it's having a modern renaissance. Reviewers praise the guides, the drinks and the tour's great organization.

Gin Journeys can be booked in different neighborhoods, including Hackney and Soho. Tours, which are capped at 20 people, are offered every Saturday at 1 or 2 p.m., depending on which neighborhood you choose to book. Ticket discounts may be available for early bookings.

Strawberry Tours – Free Soho Tour London

Price: Free Duration: 2 hours

Since the mid-19th century, Soho has been a haven for musicians, writers and bohemians. Learn about the neighborhood's famous residents and much more on this free two-hour London walking tour. Your guide will talk about famous bands like the Beatles and the Rolling Stones and their connection to the area. You'll also learn about the history of Soho's sex industry, a topic not always discussed on tours. Guides will take you by the Old Red Light District, Carnaby Street, the West End Theatre District and more. Tourgoers rave about the expert guides and are awestruck by the history of the area.

As its name suggests, the tour is free, but at the end of tour, you can pay your guide what you wish. This tour runs Wednesday through Sunday at 3:30 p.m. Tickets must be reserved in advance. Strawberry Tours offers other free excursions around London, such as street art-themed tours and several London landmarks tours.

Check availability on:

Free Tours by Foot – World War Two Tour of London

On this two-hour walking tour of London, you'll learn about London during the Blitz, hear tales of how the city was rebuilt after the war and walk past landmarks that survived the bombings, such as St. Paul's Cathedral. Tour-takers value the engaging guides and the amount of history shared on the tour. They also say guides tailor the tour to participants' interests.

Visitors can name their own price, paying what they think the tour was worth at the excursion's conclusion. Tours operate Thursday at 2 p.m. and Sunday at 10:30 a.m. Reservations are required to guarantee a spot. Free Tours by Foot offers a variety of walking and food tours, including tours of Westminster and London street art, among many others.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Hotels in London
• The Best Sightseeing Tours of Buckingham Palace
• The Best International Travel Insurance

Tags: Tours , Vacations , Travel , London , Europe Vacations , United Kingdom Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The best carry-on backpacks.

Rachael Hood , Erin Evans , Catriona Kendall , Amanda Norcross and Leilani Osmundson March 29, 2024

Best Chicago Boat Tours

Holly Johnson and Marisa Méndez March 29, 2024

The Best Alaska Cruises for Families

Gwen Pratesi March 29, 2024

The 14 Best Maui Tours

John Rodwan March 28, 2024

Monos vs. Away Comparison Charts

Rachael Hood and Amanda Norcross March 28, 2024

The Best Weekender Bags for Women

Rachael Hood , Erin Evans , Catriona Kendall , Amanda Norcross and Leilani Osmundson March 27, 2024

What to Pack in a Carry-on Bag

Rachael Hood March 27, 2024

15 Best Nashville Tours

Lyn Mettler March 26, 2024

The Best NYC Helicopter Rides and Tours

The 6 Best Kauai Helicopter Tours

Holly Johnson and Marisa Méndez March 25, 2024

Venice Private Tours

Venice food tours, st. mark’s basilica, murano & burano, gondola tours, doge’s palace, st. peter’s basilica, st. peter's dome, sistine chapel, raphael rooms, private tours, san francisco, san francisco food tours, napa valley wine tours, golden gate bridge, pompeii from rome, cooking classes, colosseum underground, paris food tours, eiffel tower, statue of liberty, nyc food tours, metropolitan museum (met), central park, last supper, lake como from milan, windsor castle, westminster abbey, tower of london, harry potter, changing of the guard, vegas shows, the grand canyon, uffizi gallery, tuscan wine tours, statue of david, florence food tours, florence duomo, accademia gallery, sagrada familia, montserrat from barcelona, casa batllo, barcelona food tours, barcelona boat tours, athens food tours, rijksmuseum tours, amsterdam food tours, amalfi coast, water & boat tours, sorrento boat tours, capri boat tours, the best london tours, find and book tours of westminster abbey, tower of london, windsor castle, stonehenge, bath, and more.

Even in London, you'll still find traces of Rome from when the city was called Londinium. However, the first structures at Westminster and Tower of London began in the 10th and 11th centuries, though much of what you see today was added later. You can visit either site on their own individually or with a tour. With a 1000 years+ of history there is a good case to hear those stories from a knowledgeable guide. Join the tours individually, or our London in a Day tour which is our most popular option for the city. Small groups of less than 20 make it a great option to navigate the city in an intimate group and connect with your guide. Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath are all great monuments to visit outside London. You'll find different options from trusted partners with tons of reviews from fellow travelers. Windsor Castle is an incredible structure with lots to see including St. George's Chapel. Stonehenge is also a monument that you can't appreciate until you experience it for yourself. The stones were dragged 150 miles from Wales--and for what reason? You'll definitely ponder existence once you learn the entire story. Beyond cultural attractions and museums, London is host to many other fun things to do. You can ride a speedboat on the Thames, take a food tour of any of London's culinary attractions, see a show, or ride the London Eye!

London is not only huge, but has a ton of fun & cultural of things to do. The whole world wants to visit which means you'll be competing with millions of people to get tickets and fighting crowds as you go. The below tours & activities take the guess work out of planning. Book our London in a Day tour and see the city with a passionate guide, transport, and tickets included! We also have other great tours and day trips to Windsor Castle (incredible!), Stonehenge, and more! Even in London, you'll still find traces of Rome from when the city was called Londinium. However, the first structures at Westminster and Tower of London began in the 10th and 11th centuries, though much of what you see today was added later. You can visit either site on their own individually or with a tour. With a 1000 years+ of history there is a good case to hear those stories from a knowledgeable guide. Join the tours individually, or our London in a Day tour which is our most popular option for the city. Small groups of less than 20 make it a great option to navigate the city in an intimate group and connect with your guide. Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath are all great monuments to visit outside London. You'll find different options from trusted partners with tons of reviews from fellow travelers. Windsor Castle is an incredible structure with lots to see including St. George's Chapel. Stonehenge is also a monument that you can't appreciate until you experience it for yourself. The stones were dragged 150 miles from Wales--and for what reason? You'll definitely ponder existence once you learn the entire story. Beyond cultural attractions and museums, London is host to many other fun things to do. You can ride a speedboat on the Thames, take a food tour of any of London's culinary attractions, see a show, or ride the London Eye!

Filter by the price per person

30 results found

Skip the Line

Legends and Lore Tour of the Tower of London

Travel the River Thames by boat then dive into British history at London's famous fortress

( 319 ) as low as $94.88

London in a Day Tour with Westminster Abbey and Tower of London

Explore Buckingham Palace, see the Crown Jewels, take a river cruise on the Thames, and more!

( 203 ) as low as $167.20

London Walking Tour with Westminster Abbey and Changing of the Guard

Explore royal history at London's famous church before seeing Buckingham Palace's ceremony

( 284 ) as low as $81.32

Early Entry Tower of London Tour with the Beefeaters

Witness a centuries-old tradition before seeing the crown jewels with fewer crowds

( 21 ) From: $110.74

Exclusive Meet & Greet Tour with the Tower of London Beefeaters

Hear legends from a Guard in the Bloody Tower before your full tour of the fortress

( 14 ) From: $101.65

Skip the Line Churchill's War Rooms and Westminster Small Group Tour

Explore the preserved Secret Bunkers in London, where D-Day and the fall of Hitler were planned

( 9 ) From: $104.53

Small Group Day Tour of Bath, Windsor Castle, and Stonehenge from London

Explore the rich history of England with an ultimate historic experience covering three iconic sites

( 32 ) From: $216.40

Semi-Private Studio Tour: The Making of Harry Potter

Discover the cinematic sorcery behind the world’s most famous wizard in this fully guided tour

From: $423.75

Europe is re-opening for visitors!

Want to see which small group tours are now operating ?

More tours added weekly!

See Open Tours

• Travel Blog
• In The Press
• Top Attractions

Policy & Terms

• Cancellation Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• USA or Canada: +1 888 290 5595
• Email: [email protected]

© 2024 - The Tour Guy All rights reserved.

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!

London sightseeing tours

Whether you’ve got a day, an afternoon or just a spare hour, we’ve got a London sightseeing tour for you

Avoid the headache of searching through the avalanche of London sightseeing tours with our handy guide to some of the best. We've gathered together a select few that will show you London’s landmarks reveal the city's hidden gems, all you have to do is pick one. Fancy poking around the Houses of Parliament? There’s a tour that’ll get you inside the iconic political barracks. Or prefer to rock on down to Abbey Road Studios? Because there’s a tour for that, too. Here we’ve rounded up the best-of-the-bunch sightseeing tours that London has to offer. Whether you want to be on land or boat, day or night, in the real or the fantasy worlds, there's a sightseeing tour in the capital with your name on it. 

RECOMMENDED: Save money on the best London attractions with a London Pass

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

Sightseeing tours in London

Inside the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey Tour

A four-hour tour that'll leave you feeling like a boffin in Britain’s royal and political history. Step inside the famous gothic abbey, which has been the setting for English coronations since William the Conqueror’s crowning in 1066, along with other royal occasions, including Prince William and Kate Middleton’s wedding. Then gain insight into the British political system with a guided tour of the House of Lords and House of Commons. There's plenty of history here, but you might also spot some familiar faces while you're strutting about the corridors. "Alright PM mate?" You could feasibly say. 

London Royal Parks Bike Tour

The best London landmarks, glorious green spaces and right royal palaces await you on this bike tour. The half-day tour is a fun, educational and active way to see the capital, including riding around the Royal Parks of Kensington Gardens, Hyde Park, Green Park, and St James’s Park. Also, if getting on your bike sounds like a daunting prospect in the big smoke, relax. London's made great ground when it comes to bike lanes in the last couple years. On yer bike! 

Jack the Ripper and Sherlock Holmes Tour of Haunted London

Experience the spooky streets of London past on this 2.5-hour tour. Ride a vintage double-decker bus, stop for two walking tours along the way and listen to stories at every eerie halt from an expert guide. Explore the atmospheric hunting grounds of the Ripper, see the former execution site at Smithfield Market and learn about Sweeney Todd and the Cock Lane ghost. There's also the alleyways where the tragic events happened, and many more of the checkpoints from this history. You'll wind up in Trafalgar Square at the end of the tour too, so you can moralise about the whole experience over a pie and a pint. 

The Original London Sightseeing Tour

Get to know top London attractions at your leisure on this flexible sightseeing tour of the city. With three family-friendly routes and three transport link services available, this hop-on hop-off bus offers a perfect day of sightseeing. Admire Tower Bridge, the London Eye, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and more from the comfort of a spacious open-top double-decker bus. This is the OG way to tour London, whether you live here or not, the hop on hop off system, the cruise on the Thames, that top deck. Arguably, you haven't seen the city unless you've done this trip. 

London Rock Music Tour

Discover London’s rock music history on either the morning or afternoon tour – or both for a comprehensive look at London’s rockin’ past. These small-group tours (max 16 people) cover everything from rock ’n’ roll landmarks in bohemian Soho to the north London neighborhoods of Camden Town, Hampstead Heath and Islington, plus, of course, Abbey Road. From the punk era to the height of the Beatles, it's all here, even Apple HQ gets a look-in. There's personalised guides available too. Solid as a rock, indeed. 

Harry Potter Black Taxi Tour of London

From Diagon Alley to The Leaky Cauldron, take a private tour of Harry Potter sites by black cab. Nobody knows the streets of London like a cab driver, and each taxi can hold up to five wizards and/or muggles. There's the invisibility cloak you've always wanted. Zipping through the streets like a really skinny bus (if you know, you know). Put yourself in the shoes of Harry Potter and co as you discover the sights of the city. Magical. You'd be a muggle not to go. 

London Night Sightseeing Tour

Discover London after dark on a 1.5-hour night tour of the city. Traveling by double-decker bus, see top attractions lit up, including Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and the London Eye. Learn fascinating facts about these legendary landmarks from your expert guide and hear insider tips about exciting places to visit in the capital at night. Sure, you might have seen these by day, but London's night time charm is something else. Bring a coat, mind, it'll make the windy Waterloo Bridge views all the more sweet. 

Handel and Hendrix tour

Hidden on a single street in London are the homes of two of history’s most significant musical artists. Travel back in time with our expert guides to the worlds of Baroque composer Handel and his iconic 1960s neighbour Jimi Hendrix. Of course, they weren't both there at the same time – that'd be quite the jam though. Whether you fancy psychadelic guitar or vivid violin, you can get the inside story of what exactly went on between the walls of Handel House, and the flat where Hendrix lived. Or both, because why not? It's all fascinating. Music to your ears. 

London Eye river cruise

Take a ride down the Thames on this London Eye river cruise and see London from a different perspective. Highlights of the 40-minute circular cruise include Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, St Paul's Cathedral, Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, HMS Belfast, Shakespeare's Globe, Tate Modern and the Millennium Bridge. Optional entry to the London Eye is also available. You'll have live commentary to make sure the eyes and ears are both kept in check, and that you can soak up as much knowledge as possible on this tour which cruises past some of the most iconic parts of London. 

[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

Top Sight Tours Group

See 30+ London Sights – Fun Local Guide

What we will see & where we will be.

This is a fun London walking tour where you will see the top 30 London Attractions in 5 hours.

One of the most complete London Walking Tours. You will see everything! 

This tour takes you through two of London’s best known areas : Westminster & The London Bridge neighbourhood (a.k.a The Southbank) 

We start in Green Park & then head to Westminster. Sights we’ll see along the way include Buckingham Palace (Changing of the Guard), Downing Street, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Parliament Square, the Houses of Parliament (Westminster Palace)

We then go to the London Bridge area. Sights you will see here include Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, The Shard, HMS Belfast, Tower Bridge, London Bridge and the Tower of London.

30+ sights in 1 tour, all with a friendly local guide. Come and join us on the best London walking tour 

Please note: The Changing of the Guard Ceremony is only for the 10am tour and on certain days.

Know before you go

What’s included :

• Fun local guide!
• 30+ Top sights of London
• Small Tour Group Size (10 – 15 guests per group)

Please bring with you

• An umbrella if its raining
• Comfortable Shoes
• Drinks & Snacks
• Topped up Oyster / Travel Card for the Underground journey
• Camera (for all the photos you’ll be taking!)

Where we meet

We meet outside the Ritz hotel (SW1A 1BS). Next to two red telephone boxes. Nearest underground station is Green Park.

Once you have booked we will send you a confirmation email with all the details of how, where and who to meet on the day of your tour.

Tour Highlights

See 30+ London Attractions in 1 Day:

Westminster Area : sights include 

• Buckingham Palace
• Trafalgar Square
• Changing of the Guard
• Downing Street
• Westminster Abbey
• Houses of Parliament

London Bridge Area  : sights include  

• Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre
• Tate Modern Art Museum
• London Bridge
• Southwark Cathedral
• The Shard (Tallest skyscraper in the EU)
• HMS Belfast (WW2 Battleship)
• Square Mile
• Tower Bridge
• Tower of London

Private London Tours of the Top 30 attractions in London. Click here

Want Westminster Tours? Click here

Want Southbank Tours? (London Bridge area) Click here

For more London Tours : Click here

Similar London Tours

Afternoon tea at kensington palace.

Experience the original Royal English Tea with traditional sandwiches, cakes & scones in the grounds ...

St Pauls Cathedral & See Over 30 Top London Sights – Private Tour

See over 30 London sights with an awesome private guide, then enter the incredible St Paul's Cathedr ...

Go Up The Shard & London Landmark Walking Tour (Private)

See over 30 top London sights with a private guide, then get the best view in the city from the top ...

Explore Tower Bridge & London’s Best Landmarks Tour (Private)

Explore 30+ top London landmarks with a private guide and go inside the iconic Tower Bridge! ...

Private Westminster Tour & Visit Westminster Abbey & Churchill War Rooms

See over 20 of London's most iconic sights and visit Westminster Abbey & Churchill War Rooms ...

Visit Kew Gardens & 3 Hour Westminster Private Walking Tour

See over 15 of London's most iconic sights in a 3-hour private walking tour, then explore the stunni ...

Westminster Private Walking Tour & Visit The Tower of London

See Buckingham Palace, Big Ben & 20+ other top sights before entering the infamous Tower of London! ...

Westminster Private Walking Tour & London Eye Ticket

See the top Westminster sights on a fun private 3-hour London walking tour, then enjoy a ride on the ...

Westminster 3-Hour Private Walking Tour & Visit Churchill War Rooms

See 20+ of London's most iconic sights in a private 3-hour tour, then enter the incredible Churchill ...

Visit Kensington Palace & 3 Hour Westminster Walking Tour (Private)

Explore the famous landmarks of Westminster with a private guide, then visit Kensington Palace - off ...

The Shard Viewing Gallery & Westminster Private Walking Tour

Join us on a fun 3 hour private walking tour and see the top 20 Attractions in Westminster, and go u ...

Private: St Pauls Cathedral & Westminster Walking Tour

Enter London's famous cathedral after seeing the Westminster Area with a private guide - see Bucking ...

Sherlock Holmes Museum & Westminster Walking Tour (Private Tour)

Explore the iconic sights of Westminster with your own private guide, then immerse yourself in the w ...

Explore Tower Bridge & Westminster Private Walking Tour

Go inside the iconic Tower Bridge after seeing 20+ top Westminster sights with your own private guid ...

Thames River Cruise & Westminster 3-Hour Private Tour

Take a cruise along the River Thames after exploring the top sights of Westminster with your own per ...

London Private Tour: Changing of the Guard & Westminster Abbey

Join a 3-hour historic walking tour to explore over 20 of London’s iconic landmarks, followed by a ...

Full Royal Private Tour: Royal London & Buckingham Palace Entry

Discover over 15 top attractions in Royal London with a personalized walking tour, followed by an ex ...

Westminster Walking Tour & London Dungeon Entry (Private Tour)

Delve into London's creepiest attraction after enjoying the iconic sights of London's Westminster wi ...

Wonderful Westminster & Windsor (Walking Tour & Visit Windsor Castle) Private Tour

Discover London's most famous sights on a top-rated private 3-hour Westminster Walking Tour, then tr ...

London Private Tour: Buckingham Palace & Big Ben (& Westminster Abbey entry)

See over 20 of London’s most iconic sights on a private historic walking tour, then enter Westmins ...

Private Tour : 3 Amazing London Art Galleries 1 tour 1 guide

See the best of the National Gallery, National Portrait Gallery & Tate Modern in one incredible tour ...

London : 2 Day Tour. See & Do Everything !

This is the ultimate 2-day tour of London. Westminster Abbey, Tower of London, Harry Potter & Jack T ...

The Houses of Parliament & London Main Sights Tour

Join our top-rated London walking tour covering the top 30 attractions in just 5 hours, followed by ...

Visit The Houses of Parliament & 3 Hour Westminster Walking Tour (Private Tour)

See the iconic sights of London's Westminster with your own private guide, then explore the famous H ...

Visit Kew Gardens & 3 Hour Westminster Walking Tour

You will see 20+ of London’s most iconic sights a 3-hour historic walking tour, then visit the stu ...

Visit St Paul’s Cathedral & Westminster Walking Tour

Step inside Britain's most famous cathedral - the magnificent St Paul's - and explore the best sight ...

The Shard Viewing Gallery & Westminster Walking Tour

Get the best (and highest!) view in London from The Shard after exploring the top sights of Westmins ...

The Beatles London Walking Tour

Discover more about Britain's most famous band, The Beatles, as you walk around London, taking in al ...

Paddington Bear Walking Tour of London

Join this fun walking tour to explore the streets of London and follow in Paddington's pawprints! ...

London: Buckingham Palace & Big Ben (& Westminster Abbey entry)

See Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and the other top sights of Westminster, then enter the incredible W ...

Charles Dickens Museum Entrance Ticket

Discover the incredible story of Charles Dickens' life while you roam around his vintage home in Lon ...

Sherlock Holmes Museum & Westminster Highlights Walking Tour

Discover the iconic sights of Westminster with a fun London guide, then step into the world of Brita ...

The London Top Sights Tour. Kids Free!

See 30+ London landmarks on one incredible walking tour, and learn the history, culture, and legends ...

Amazing London: See The Top 30 Landmarks

Join the best walking tour in London, see 30 Top Landmarks & learn their history from a fun local gu ...

Explore Tower Bridge & Westminster Walking Tour

Explore the famous sights of Westminster with a fun local guide before entering the magnificent Towe ...

Inside Buckingham Palace & Westminster Highlights Walking Tour

Step into world-famous Buckingham Palace after seeing the very best of Westminster with an entertain ...

Westminster 3-hour Walking Tour & London Dungeon Entry

The authentic british food tour.

Discover two of the most loved areas of London, offering the most delicious and best variety of food ...

Royal High Tea at Kensington Palace

Wimbledon lawn tennis museum entrance ticket.

Visit the largest tennis museum in the world to explore the rich history of The Championships, and s ...

The Foundling Museum Entrance Ticket

The Foundling Museum, one of London's most interesting museums, includes art collection and 18th-cen ...

Royal Albert Hall Tour Entrance Ticket

Discover Britain's most famous and spectacular performance venue - the Royal Albert Hall. Includes a ...

Chelsea Physic Garden Entrance Ticket

Chelsea Physic Garden is a botanical gem, nestled in the heart of London, England, since 1673. ...

Westminster Walking Tour & Visit The Tower of London

Discover 20+ top sights of London in Westminster, then enter the famous Tower of London for some inc ...

Westminster Walking Tour & London Eye Ticket

See the top Westminster Sights on a fun 3-hour London walking tour, then enjoy a ride on the London ...

Westminster 3 Hour Private Walking Tour & Westminster Abbey

We will see over 20 of London’s most iconic sights in this historic walking tour! After the walkin ...

Full Royal Tour: Royal London Private Tour & Buckingham Palace Entry

See 15+ of the best Royal London sights on a private walking tour, then enter Buckingham Palace to s ...

London Tour with Changing of the Guard & Westminster Abbey

Visit over 20 of London’s most iconic sights in a 3-hour historic walking tour, then enter Westmin ...

Visit The Houses of Parliament & 3 Hour Westminster Walking Tour

See the iconic sights of London's Westminster with a fun local guide, then explore the famous Houses ...

Wonderful Westminster & Windsor (Walking Tour & Visit Windsor Castle)

Discover London's most famous sights on a fun 3-hour Westminster Walking Tour, then travel to the am ...

Wimbledon Tennis & Westminster Landmarks Walking Tour

See the top sights of Westminster in 3 hours before visiting the iconic Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Club! ...

Visit The Clink Prison & Westminster Highlights Walking Tour

This is a fun 3 hour walking tour where you will visit the UKs oldest Prison : The Clink! ...

3 hour Westminster Sights Tour & Go On-Board HMS Belfast

This is a fun 3 walking tour of London where you will go on board a WW2 Battleship that saw action i ...

Visit Westminster Abbey and The Churchill War Rooms

We will see more than 20 of London's most iconic sights and visit two of London’s most iconic attr ...

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter with return transportation & 3 Hour Westminster Tour

Enjoy a walking tour of Westminster & Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potte ...

This is a fun London walking tour where you will see the top 30 London Attractions & hear about thei ...

London’s Amazing Palaces & Parliament Walking Tour

This is a guided London walking tour of Westminster. You will see the main Top London Attractions in ...

Eat 8 British Foods & See 30+ Sights! Walking Tour

This is a London food tour where you will also see the top 30 London landmarks. ...

Full Royal Tour: Visit Buckingham Palace

Visit Buckingham Palace See 15+ Royal London Sights. Fun local guide ...

J K Rowling & Wizard Walking Tour

A J K Rowling & Wizard Walking Tour of London through some magical streets. Children (15 and under) ...

British Royalty : Changing Of The Guard

We will see 10+ most iconic sights of The British Monarchy in a 1.5 hour walking tour. The main attr ...

The Crown British Royalty Walking Tour

Join us as we show you the British Royalty sights that are well known and featured on the series on ...

British Royalty Tour – See the Guard Change & More!

This tour is focused on the most famous Royal Family in the world : The British Monarchy ...

London’s Lights & Top 30 Sights

An evening walking tour of London's lights - the best way to see London at night. The London's light ...

Castles & Bridges Southbank Tour

A fun Southbank walking tour. You'll see the main landmarks in the London Bridge & Southbank area in ...

Londons Palaces, Parliament and Wizard Walking Tour

See 20 of London's most iconic sights and more than 10 movie set locations of Harry Potter movies in ...

Jack The Ripper Tour : Solve The Crime

We will take you on a walking tour through the dark and narrow streets of Jack the Rippers's famous ...

See 40+ London Sights – Fun Local Guide

Want to see every major sight in London? This is the tour for you! See the top 40 Landmarks in Londo ...

Visit the 3 Best London Art Galleries with a Fun Local Guide!

Visit the 3 Best London Art Galleries with a Fun Local Guide! Tate Modern, National Gallery & Portra ...

Wizard Walking Tour (Film Location) & River Cruise

Visit different Harry Potter-related sites and see buildings that inspired the books by JK Rowling o ...

Wizard Walking Tour & Castle – The Tower of London

See a variety of Harry Potter-related locations that inspired JK Rowling and many filming location s ...

Westminster 3 Hour Walking Tour & Visit Churchill War Rooms

We will see 20 of London's most iconic sights in a 3-hour historic walking tour! After the walking t ...

Westminster 3 Hour Walking Tour & Westminster Abbey

Since the coronation of William the Conqueror in 1066, all coronations of English and British monarc ...

Ride the London Eye (Skip The Line) & See 30+ London Top Sights

This is a fun 5 walking tour of London where you will go for a spin on the London Eye and also see t ...

The Tower of London & See 30+ London Top Sights

This is a fun 5 hour walking tour of London where you will see the top 30 London Sights and visit Th ...

London WW2 Day Out: Churchill War Rooms & HMS Belfast

See 20+ Top London Sights and delve into Word War 2 history at the Churchill War Rooms and HMS Belfa ...

Jack The Ripper Walking Tour & Ripper Museum Entry

Combination Tour of entering the Jack The Ripper Museum plus a walking tour through the various loca ...

Westminster Walking Tour, River Cruise & Go Up The Shard

Combination Tour of the 20 Top London Sights and entrance Tickets onto a Thames River Cruise and The ...

Westminster Tour, River Cruise & Tower of London Entry

Combination Tour of 20+ London Sights and Tickets into the Tower of London plus the River Cruise dow ...

Westminster Abbey Entrance Ticket

Visit the 700 year old Westminster Abbey! ...

Tower of London Entrance Ticket

Visit the Tower of London and enter its Museum! ...

St. Paul’s Cathedral Entrance Ticket

Visit St Pauls! One of Londons most iconic Cathedrals! ...

Houses of Parliament (Westminster) Tour

Take a peak into the Houses of Parliament to see the inside of one of most important buildings for d ...

Churchill WW2 War Rooms Entrance Ticket

Delve into the Churchill War Rooms and see the underground headquarters of the British High Command ...

Buckingham Palace Entry Tickets

You will visit the famous Buckingham Palace. Royal Residence for the Queen! ...

Go Up The Shard & See 30+ London Top Sights

This is a fun 5 walking tour of London where you see London from the clouds and also see the top 20 ...

The Shard Viewing Gallery : Entrance Ticket

Enjoy the view from London's tallest Skyscraper, The Shard. ...

Visit Tower Bridge & See 30+ London Top Sights

See the 30+ Top sights of London on a 5 hour Walking Tour, then enter Tower Bridge. Join us on our L ...

Thames River Cruise & Westminster 3 Hour Walking Tour

This is a fun 3 walking tour of London where you will cruise down the Thames in style! You will also ...

Visit St Pauls & See 30+ London Top Sights

This is a fun 5 London walking tour where you will visit St Pauls Cathedral after your tour. You wil ...

Go On-Board HMS Belfast & See 30+ London Top Sights

This is a fun 5 walking tour of London where you will go on board a WW2 Battleship that saw action i ...

The London Dungeon & See 30+ London Top Sights

This is a fun 5 walking tour of London where you will go on down into the scariest place in the capi ...

Visit The Clink Prison & 30+ London Sights Tour

This is a fun 5 hour walking tour where you will visit the UKs oldest Prison : The Clink! ...

Jack The Ripper Museum & See 30+ London Top Sights Tour

A 5-hour London walking tour to see the top 30+ London attractions followed by entry to the Jack the ...

Sherlock Holmes Museum & 30+ London Top Sights

Visit kew gardens & see 30+ london top sights.

This is a fun 5 hour walking tour of London where you will see the top 30 London Sights and visit th ...

Westminster 3 Hour Walking Tour & Visit Kensington Palace

A fun 5 hour London walking tour where you will see the top Westminster Sights before visiting Kensi ...

Climb Over The O2 & See 30+ London Top Sights

This is a fun 5 hour walking tour of London where you will see the top 30 London Sights and go Up At ...

See 30+ London Sights – Fun Local Guide (Private Tour)

This is a fun London private tour where you will see the top 30 London Attractions & hear about thei ...

J K Rowling & Wizard Walking Private Tour (3 Hours)

A J K Rowling & Wizard Walking Private Sightseeing Tour through some magical streets. Children (15 a ...

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 .

The 5 Best Sightseeing Tours of Buckingham Palace

O n a visit to London , some of the top attractions are linked to the royal family. But nothing is quite as iconic as a visit to the one of the three official residences of the monarchy – Buckingham Palace . While it's only open to the public on select dates, you can relish in its beauty from the regal gates, snap a selfie and catch a Changing the Guard ceremony.

How to Tour Buckingham Palace

For about 10 weeks every summer (select dates from July 11 to Sept. 29, 2024), Buckingham Palace opens its elaborate gates, welcoming visitors to explore its lavish State Rooms, grounds and Royal Collection artworks. The Royal Mews is also open to visitors from March to October, showcasing the Royal Family's real working stables and ornate, historic carriages – including the Gold State Coach used for Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Coronation in 2022.

The Best Sightseeing Tours of Buckingham Palace

If you aren't here at the right time, fear not; this extravagant, 18th-century royal residence is just as impressive from the outside, making it worth a visit any time of year. Come on a Monday, Wednesday, Friday or Sunday morning to see the Changing the Guard ceremony – when the red-and-black-clad Royal Guard marches toward the palace, accompanied by striking military music – and see a tradition that's been running for more than 300 years. Combine it with explorations in the surrounding area of Westminster to see London at its most quintessential.

You can explore all of this independently, of course – but if you're looking to dig a little deeper, hear about the king's coronation and uncover local secrets, consider a guided London tour . Insider experts can point out the best photo spots, take you to the must-see sights and show you the ins and outs of the area while sharing  knowledge of the country's royal history along the way.

There are tons of options out there, so where do you start? Based on local knowledge and traveler review sites, here are some of the most highly rated tours.

Changing of the Guard Walking Tour

Price: From $13

Duration: 2 to 3 hours

Standout perk: Witness the pomp of the iconic Changing the Guard ceremony.

Watch the Royal Guard march toward Buckingham Palace as you witness this historic, quintessentially British spectacle on a two-hour tour of Westminster's highlights. Accompanied by a military band, you'll see the Old Guard (soldiers on duty) switch to the New Guard as they arrive at the palace from Wellington Barracks. Your guide will explain which regiment is which, before taking you on a guided walking tour past other world-famous, attractions, including Big Ben, Clarence House, the Houses of Parliament , St James's Palace and Westminster Abbey .

Recent travelers gave high ratings to the tour, saying guides were able to take them to the best photo spots for the ceremony, while offering a wealth of historical and entertaining insight.

Tours leave at 10 a.m. and depart from the corner of Piccadilly and Arlington Street (between The Ritz and The Wolseley), ending at Parliament Square.

Local tip: Look at the Horse Guards Clock on the Horse Guards Parade – the official entrance to Buckingham Palace and St James's Palace – to see a dark stain above the 2 (II, in Roman numerals). It marks the time King Charles I was executed outside the Palace of Whitehall in 1649, after being charged with treason.

View & Book Tickets: Viator

Windsor Castle & Buckingham Palace Tour

Price: From $164

Duration: 8.5 hours

Standout perk: Get a rare chance to explore the State Rooms with Buckingham Palace tickets, and tick off two of the United Kingdom's grandest royal residences in one day.

This twin-castle tour offers the opportunity to enter Buckingham Palace and see its State Rooms, Royal Collection artwork and other treasures, with commentary from an audio guide. After you've toured the palace, you'll travel by coach about 25 miles west of London to Windsor Castle – the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, and the family home of the monarchy for more than 900 years. Explore the castle's lavish State Apartments and grounds, and visit St George's Chapel – the burial place of Queen Elizabeth II alongside many other monarchs, and the spot where Prince Harry married Meghan Markle. Recent travelers said the tour was a great opportunity to see inside both palaces. Several commented on the extensive art collection at Buckingham Palace, and many enjoyed hearing insights from the guides, although some complained about long lines. The tour takes place from July through September on select Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays, and leaves from Victoria Coach Station at 7:45 a.m. Local tip: Windsor Castle has its own Changing the Guard ceremony, as well as its own extensive art collection – the ceremony takes place at 11 a.m. on select days of the week.

Full-day London with Changing of the Guard and Private Cruise

Price: From $158; with optional London Eye or Harrods cream tea for an additional fee

Duration: 9 hours

Standout perk: You'll see many of London's key attractions in one day, and enjoy a river cruise thrown in for good measure.

If you want to combine a visit to see Buckingham Palace's Changing the Guard ceremony with stops at several other London spots, this is a great choice. The full-day trip begins at the UNESCO listed Tower of London where you'll have the chance to see the crown jewels.

From here you'll visit Buckingham Palace to witness the famous pomp and pageantry of the ceremony, and get the chance to admire the palace's impressive architecture from the outside. The day includes a tour of the elaborate St. Paul's Cathedral (not available on Sundays), before embarking on a boat tour of the Thames, passing key attractions including Tower Bridge and Shakespeare's Globe. The day also includes a photo stop at Westminster Abbey, where Prince William and Kate Middleton married in 2011, and a brief walking tour of Parliament Square. Travelers can choose to add a ride on the famous London Eye observation wheel (or opt for a quintessentially British cream tea at Harrods instead).

Recent travelers loved the tour and praised the guides as highly knowledgeable and entertaining. Many were impressed with how much they saw in a day and said it gave them a great introduction to London (although it's worth noting a few felt there was quite a bit of walking involved).

Tours leave from Victoria Coach Station at 7:45 a.m. and finish at the London Eye.

Local tip: If you fancy delving deeper into the Tower of London in your own time, book a ticket to see the Ceremony of the Keys. Dating back seven centuries, this nightly ceremony is when the castle gets locked up for the night, with a special exchange between the sentry and Yeoman Warder taking place at 9:30 p.m. between the atmospheric battlements – both eerie and magical.

Raw HTML : Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

The London Essentials Bike Tour

Price: From $38

Duration: 3.5 hours

Standout perk: Get active on two wheels, and combine a Buckingham Palace stop with a visit to Kensington Palace and other royal sights.

This half-day guided cycling tour is a great option to get active on your London trip. You'll start at Kensington Gardens – the home of Kensington Palace, where Princess Diana lived with the now King Charles, and Queen Victoria's birthplace. From here, pedal to the Royal Albert Hall to check out this elaborate concert hall, opened by Queen Victoria in 1871. Afterward, cycle through Hyde Park and on to Green Park to reach Buckingham Palace, where your guide will regale you with little-known stories about the palace. Continue on to Trafalgar Square, Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben as you take in some of the capital's key highlights, before returning to the Royal Parks.

Recent travelers raved about the tour and were really impressed by the knowledge of the guide. Many enjoyed the small group size and said the cycling was a good, leisurely pace, with plenty to see along the way, and iced tea and snacks included as a bonus.

The tour leaves from outside the main entrance at Hilton London Hyde Park. The recommended minimum age is 9 – you can pre-book junior bikes and child seats. While the bicycle and helmet for use during the tour are included, attraction entry fees are additional.

Local tip: If you've got time after the tour, it's well worth exploring Kensington Palace a bit more. Admire the elaborate, Georgian-era King's Staircase and the King's State Gallery with its fine art collection, see the Queen's State Apartments where Mary II would come to relax or welcome guests, and visit the Sunken Garden, once a favorite spot of Princess Diana's. After, enjoy afternoon tea or lunch at the Kensington Palace Pavilion amid the gardens.

View & Book Tickets: GetYourGuide

The Premier Classic London: Private 4-Hour Tour in a Black Cab

Price: From $461

Duration: 4 hours

Standout perk: You'll see many of London's must-see attractions, and as it's a private tour, you can tailor the trip to your liking.

If you're after a private tour, this half-day trip in a classic London black cab is just the ticket.

You can choose to align your visit to Buckingham Palace with a Changing the Guard ceremony, and you'll get expert commentary from your personal taxi driver, who's also a registered tour guide. Alongside the palace, you'll pass must-see points including the Houses of Parliament, Downing Street, St James's Palace, the Tower of London, Piccadilly Circus, Shakespeare's Globe, Borough Market and Covent Garden , with options to stop along the way.

Recent travelers loved the tour and said guides were able to tailor the trip, stopping at spots both on and off the tourist trail and offering plenty of historical insight.

Your driver-guide can pick you up and drop you off at your hotel; or a central London location.

Local tip: Make a stop at Borough Market to try some of the best food in the city, with more than 100 stalls offering everything from Persian to Italian, alongside plenty of fresh produce.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Laura French is an award-winning British travel writer based in London. She grew up just outside the city and worked around the corner from Buckingham Palace for several years. She loves exploring the surrounding area, and used her own experience alongside online research to compile the roundup.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Hotels in London
• The Best Harry Potter Tours in London
• The Best Travel Insurance for Europe

Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report