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The 5 Best British Museum Tours [2024 Reviews]

As the first national public museum of the world, the British Museum brings all kinds of cultures together with countless artifacts and historical accounts.

While there are plenty of incredible art museums in London, but if you’re a history buff like me, this is a can’t-miss! There’s a ton to see, however, so I highly recommend taking a proper tour to guide you through the most notable pieces.

I’ve carefully curated a guide to the 5 top tours of the British Museum out there, so you don’t have to worry about which ones are actually worth your time and money. Let’s jump right in!

Be sure to see our reviews of Thames Dinner Cruises , Windsor Castle Tours and Buckingham Palace Tours .

Best British Museum Guided Tours

Quick answer: the 5 best british museum private & guided tours for 2024.

• The British Museum London Guided Museum Tour – Semi-Private 8ppl Max
• Private Guided Tour of the British Museum
• Kid-Friendly Private British Museum Highlights and Walk to Covent Garden London
• The British Museum London – Exclusive Guided Museum Tour
• British Museum In-Depth Private Guided Tour

British Museum Tour Reviews

1. the british museum london guided museum tour – semi-private 8ppl max.

• Duration: 2.5 Hours
• Departure: Great Russell St, London WC1B 3DG
• Departure Time: 10:00 AM, 1:30 & 5:00 PM
• Includes:  Semi-private museum tour, no more than 8 participants, professional tour guide

London’s cultural landscape is like some type of treasure trove filled with intense history, art, and fascinating artifacts. The British Museum London Guided Museum Tour – Semi-Private 8ppl Max  experience is one of those top-tier tours that I wish I’d found out about earlier.

If you want an in-depth yet intriguing way to see the over 6,000 years of history under one roof, look no further!

The tour starts off by meeting the guide right outside the museum gates, where we instantly hit it off and were able to ask them any questions we had along the way.

They asked us about any specific interests we had, and as our group was limited to just 8 participants, it felt very intimate and fun. We then received a briefing of what to expect and the history of the museum, which really set the tone for a fascinating next few hours.

Our whole group was open to seeing pretty much anything and everything, so we started off by following our educated guide through the different rooms to see a wide array of impressive ancient and medieval exhibits.

The Rosetta Stone was so fascinating to me, especially because it essentially unlocked the ancient Egyptian world, from the language to their afterlife beliefs.

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I’m a huge fan of ancient Greek sculptures, so being able to see the Parthenon sculptures was something of a dream – we even learned how a massive gold and ivory image of Athena used to stand inside the Parthenon!

What was really cool was that we easily had the best guide in the place, who spoke to us more like longtime friends and relayed information about each artifact in a way that was easy to comprehend.

They never made us feel like we should have a certain level of knowledge, and while our group varied in education about certain subjects he spoke to all of us in a way that made sense.

Overall, this was a great tour that I’d recommend to anyone of any age or background who’d like to explore the British Museum in an effective way.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other london experiences you may enjoy:, 2. private guided tour of the british museum.

• Duration: 2 Hours
• Departure: Great Russell Street, London, UK
• Departure Time: 10:00 AM, 2:00 & 5:00 PM
• Includes: Licensed and insured guide, entrance ticket

I don’t know about you, but I’ve definitely taken some boring museum tours throughout my life and don’t always look forward to them. Many times, I’ve just wandered through museums and hoped for the best by reading up beforehand on some of the sites I’m most interested in.

However, with tours like the Private Guided Tour of the British Museum , my mind was changed and I discovered that with the right guide the entire experience can be elevated.

Upon meeting our guide, I was instantly captivated by both her knowledge and skilled way of speaking while showcasing the best the museum has to offer.

Sometimes it just feels like you’re wandering around or the guide is making things up as they go, but that was not the case here. She was a true leader and clearly knew exactly what she was talking about and where to go, taking a seamless route that tied everything together, effortlessly.

Even though the artifacts from room to room vary wildly, she somehow weaved each piece of history together, relating the different civilizations and discoveries to the other.

It was a super cool way to see the museum and learn, especially as I am a big fan of world history!

I learned a ton of fun facts and larger concepts that I admittedly didn’t even know about prior to this tour, and I loved how she included plenty of lesser-known artifacts, too.

The museum is so massive, that it will not only save you time but frustration by going on a curated experience such as this tour, with a guide who has a ton of in-depth knowledge.

While the tour lasts only a few hours, it flew by even faster than expected thanks to the captivating stories regaled to our little group. While it is a bit more expensive, this is a small-group experience maxing out at 6 people, so it’s well worth it!

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3. kid-friendly private british museum highlights and walk to covent garden london.

• Duration: 3 Hours
• Departure Time: 10:00 AM & 2:00 PM
• Includes: Local guide, Professional Blue Badge guide, Private Tour

While the British Museum may not be the first sight that pops into your head when planning a trip with kids in tow, it’s actually perfect for curious young minds.

If that sounds like what you’re looking for, the Kid-Friendly Private British Museum Highlights and Walk to Covent Garden London Tour  is just the ticket!

Lead by expert guides who clearly have a knack for teaching and keeping younger people intrigued, this interactive tour is tailored specifically for children aged 6 to 12 years old. However, that’s not to say that it’s not for people older than that, or the information isn’t accurate.

In fact, I had a fantastic time and felt like this was some of the most fun I’ve ever had on a museum tour – as a child or as an adult!

The tour starts out with a warm welcome from your guide, who right off the bat created a space that made everyone feel comfortable enough to learn and ask any questions.

From Egyptian mummies and Greek sculptures to decoding hieroglyphics, this hands-on experience made these artifacts come to life.

As this is a private tour, you don’t have to worry about big groups and your guide will even help personalize the experience.

I know that moving through museums with kids can be a delicate manner, but our tour guide kept everyone so entertained that there wasn’t even a moment for them to think about “accidentally” touching something they weren’t supposed to or playing tag next to ancient artifacts.

They gave us a shortlist to the most popular sites, narrating each one with fascinating historical accounts in a way that younger kids can easily digest. If you’re looking to bring children to the British Museum, look no further, because this is the best tour of them all.

4. The British Museum London – Exclusive Guided Museum Tour

• Departure Time: 10:00 AM, 1:30 and 5:00 PM
• Includes:  Guided museum tour, tour guide

The British Museum holds around 8 million items – needless to say, you can spend quite a bit of time there if you don’t know what you’re looking for.

With The British Museum London – Exclusive Guided Museum Tour , you can rest easy knowing that your guide will create a custom itinerary designed around what you’re most interested in seeing!

These are the experts who know the museum like the back of their hand, maximizing your time in this absolute gem of an attraction.

Another huge pull for me with this tour was just how affordable it was for the sheer value received, making it one of those “biggest bang for your buck” experiences!

Lasting 2.5 hours, I wasn’t prepared for just how much I was able to see and learn about, at a pace that went smoothly and just made sense. This definitely isn’t one of those run-of-the-mill museum tours where the guide is just rattling off commonly known information!

We started out by meeting our guide right outside the museum gates, where they gave us a briefing on the history of the museum building and some of the most notable artifacts. We then got to head right inside, wasting no time to get to the best parts!

While the Rosetta Stone, mummies, and sculptures are absolute musts, I was surprised at the amount of amazing art!

Do not miss the drawings by Botticelli and Michelangelo, the Assyrian reliefs, the Lewis Chessmen, and much more! The tour consisting of carefully selected items was phenomenal, with our guide sharing tons of valuable, entertaining stories.

Our guide tailored our tour to lean a bit towards art as that’s one of my main interests, and I do recommend stopping by these exhibits! If you’re looking to gain a deeper understanding of what humans are capable of, let’s go!

5. British Museum In-Depth Private Guided Tour

• Departure: 49 Great Russell St, London WC1B 3BA
• Departure Time:  Varies
• Includes:  Private expert guide, customizable tour

Are you looking for a tour that’s just a couple of hours long to try and fill your itinerary with a fun, entertaining tour experience?

If so, then check out the British Museum In-Depth Private Guided Tour  is completely customizable, so there’s no more dealing with monotonous tours that you didn’t sign up for!

Known as the “World’s Museum”, expect to see lots of big tourist attractions, along with plenty of “hidden” gems that most don’t get to see.

I met up with my guide right outside the museum, and while I chose to do a morning tour, there are tons of different start times available for added convenience. As it’s just a few hours long, I’d say it’s super easy to fit into even the busiest of itineraries!

Before we got started, he did ask me if I had any specific interests or preferences as to what we explore inside the museum, creating a customized schedule based on that.

I couldn’t believe how affordable this tour was when I realized that it was completely private, which ended up literally just being me and my guide.

It was like I had a best friend local to the area taking me around to all the sites I want to see while giving me a fun, intriguing narrative on each one. I was able to ask plenty of questions, and he answered each one with confidence which only enriched my experience further.

I felt that this tour was very comfortable with a pace that wasn’t too fast nor too slow, even taking breaks intermittently to rest and go for a coffee/pastry!

I can say with confidence that this guide knew just about everything in the museum, and on the private tour I felt comfortable asking anything that came to mind. I highly recommend this tour for anyone!

Tour Guides

The The British Museum London Guided Museum Tour - Semi-Private 8ppl Max is our Editors Choice for the best British Museum tour

Robert Baker

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].

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British Museum in talks with Greece over return of Parthenon marbles

Greek ministers say secret talks have been under way for more than a year

The British Museum has confirmed for the first time that it is involved in “constructive discussions” with Greece over the return of some of the Parthenon marbles .

Speculation has been intensifying over recent months that a deal could be struck to return some of the marble sculptures, which have been on display in the British Museum since 1832 after being controversially stripped from the Parthenon by Lord Elgin, a British diplomat.

Senior Greek ministers confirmed last month that secret talks between the museum’s chairman, George Osborne, and the Greek government have been ongoing for more than a year . On Wednesday, the Telegraph reported that an agreement had been drawn up between the two parties that could lead to some items returning on loan early this year.

However, Greek sources have indicated that the two parties are still some distance apart. A well-placed senior Greek official told the Guardian on Wednesday: “This is not true. there is no such deal.”

The museum said in a statement: “We’ve said publicly we’re actively seeking a new Parthenon partnership with our friends in Greece and as we enter a new year constructive discussions are ongoing.”

While Osborne has been open for some time about his willingness to strike a deal to break the deadlock over the highly contested sculptures, the museum has not before now confirmed that discussions were actively under way.

Greece has long insisted it wants the marbles back permanently. However, the British Museum’s firm position is that any potential agreement would only see items returned on loan. The British government said last month it had no intention of amending the British Museum Act , the law that prevents the museum from returning any of its collection permanently except in very limited circumstances.

“We’re not going to dismantle our great collection as it tells a unique story of our common humanity,” the museum said in a statement at the time.

The museum will shortly announce details of a long-planned £1bn modernisation plan called the Rosetta Project, in which there will be a “complete reimagination” of the museum and a major renovation of many of its galleries.

The Parthenon galleries, which have been in a poor state of repair for some time, are expected to be prioritised for refurbishment, which could offer a convenient moment to lend some of the items to Greece if agreement can be reached.

Greek and international calls for the sculptures’ permanent return, which has been building over recent years, are unlikely to be satisfied by a loan, however. Last month, the Vatican gave back three Parthenon sculptures from its collection to Greece, saying the donation was “a concrete sign of [Pope Francis’s] sincere desire to follow in the ecumenical path of truth”.

A spokesperson for the Parthenon Project, which campaigns for the sculpture’s return to Athens, said it welcomed signs that “a solution to this long-standing issue is finally within reach”.

“We have argued for a deal that is beneficial to both Greece and Britain, centred on a cultural partnership between the two countries. This would see the British Museum continue in its role as a ‘museum of the world’ displaying magnificent Greek artefacts as part of rotating exhibits, with the Parthenon Sculptures reunited in their rightful home in Athens.”

• Parthenon marbles
• British Museum

More on this story

Greece would offer major treasures to UK for Parthenon marbles, minister says

Parthenon marbles should return to Athens, says Lord Frost

Sunak says retaining Parthenon marbles is matter of law as he denies ‘hissy fit’

British Museum chair George Osborne criticises Sunak over Parthenon marbles

Sunak accuses Greek PM of ‘grandstanding’ over Parthenon marbles

V&A director says museum trustees ‘infantilised’ amid row over Parthenon marbles

Parthenon marbles row raises fresh fears over fraught UK-EU relations

After years of controversy, could a compromise be coming on the Parthenon marbles?

‘Cancel the meeting!’ It’s not just the Greeks who’ve lost their marbles

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British Museum Tour | Semi-Private Experience

What to expect

With an expert guide and small groups under six, Livtours  British Museum Tour  is a personal and fascinating way to see the highlights of this incredible and extensive collection. Avoid wandering through the gigantic collection of over 8,000 as your local expert guides you across the galleries bringing to life each era and its most famous artifacts. Opened in 1756 The British Museum is not only older than many counties but contains some of the oldest artifacts in the world, it is home to one of the most extensive and comprehensive collections on earth, as The British Empire expanded as did the Museum. 

Yet trying to maximize your time and experiencing such a vast collection to its full is a difficult task for many visitors. By taking a semi-private guided tour the stories, histories, and importance of these world-famous artifacts are made more accessible with the entertaining and gripping stories your guide will provide, from the incredible and controversial Elgin Marbles to the groundbreaking Rosetta stone, that allowed historians to understand hieroglyphics for the first time. Discover, uncover, and adventure through time across all four corners of the world on your 2-hour tour of all the best the British Museum has to offer. 

Why book this tour

• Discover the fascinating stories of more than 4000 years of history with expert guide
• Experience the British Museum in comfort with small groups under 6 people
• Maximixe your time in one of the worlds largest museums with our 2 hour highlights
• Marvel and magnificent objects of old from Egyption Mummies to Ancient Marbles
• Uncover the lesser known stories behind the most famous objects in the world
• Witness over 4000 years of human history on your Semi-Private British Museum

Semi-Private tours and experiences are guaranteed six participants max.

Our prices always include tickets and reservations fees (no waiting in lines!)

Our tour guides and staff are selected experts and speak perfect English

Easy to book and prepay your tours with our secure payment system

Eco-sustainable tourism, designed to respect and support local culture, art and traditions

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Read more about your British Museum tour

Your Livtours  Semi-Private   British Museum Tour  takes you on a journey inside one of the most prestigious museums in the world. Opened in fashionable Bloomsbury ( the original location was supposed to be Buckingham House, now a palace of the Queen) The British Museum is more than just a collection of antiques; it is a visual interaction with the world of the past, a museum that can transport you to any century anywhere. 

From India, China, and Egypt to Greece, you will explore the greatest achievements of mankind through the art, artifacts, and objects they have left behind. Beginning as a small private collection, developing into the national library and natural history museum the British Museum has grown and grown until the division of institutions. Today the sight displays the greatest and most important artifacts and objects of the entire national collection. With an expert guide by your side and groups of no more than six, benefit from engaging with your guide, questioning and discussing some of the most iconic artifacts from history. 

Marvel at the world-famous Elgin Marbles built to honor the goddess Athena or stand in front of the Rosetta stone, a tablet written in ancient Greek and Egyptian Hieroglyphics allowing linguists to understand the illusive ancient symbols for the first time. contemplate the determination and tenacity of previous explorers, archaeologists, and historians who cracked codes, unraveled mysteries, and revealed the secrets of the past*. 

With the museum’s unusual art effects and your guide’s wonderful storytelling they will ensure that two hours is the perfect amount of time to unpack the fascinating histories behind the world’s treasures from Egyptian mummies to Anglo-Saxon weapons, your guide will focus on the must-see objects as well as answering any questions you may have on the collections. Put the pieces in place on a timeline of world history and leave feeling educated in history, art, and the culture of the world.

This Tour Includes

• Enlightenment Gallery
• Easter Island head
• Aztec and Mayan collection
• Sutton Hoo ship burial
• Medieval Europe collection
• Ancient Egypt & mummies
• Roman Britain collection
• Portland vase
• Ancient Rome collection
• Money Gallery
• Ancient Greece collection
• The Rosetta Stone
• Assyrian collection
• Parthenon Marbles
• Fully guided experience

Our Sustainable Tourism Promise

LivTours’ group size of max 6 participants is and always has been based on sustainable travel, and we are proud to be at the forefront of change and innovation in the industry.   LivTours is committed to providing travelers with truly sustainable tours with the lowest possible environmental impact, all while supporting the local industries and people of each unique destination. To learn more about how you can actively support sustainable tourism  and how LivTours is contributing, click here .

About our Semi-Private tours

All LivTours Semi-Private Group Tours are limited to 6 guests per tour guide. Our commitment to maintaining our uniquely tiny group sizes can sometimes be a little tricky, mathematically speaking. For example, we want to ensure that traveling families and friends can tour together so on rare occasions we may add one or two guests in order to not split groups. On that same note, you may also find yourself on tour with less than six people! We thank you for your understanding and flexibility .

Excellent in every way

We got so much more out of the museum thanks to this tour. Our guide was Thomas and he was very knowledgeable and friendly. Our group consisted of just 6 of us so easy to become friendly and to interact with the guide. He answered all of our questions and then some! Couldn't have asked for more.

We recommend this company!

This company promises small groups of no more than 6 and that's exactly what we had for our tour of the British Museum. Their guide, Jessica, was also really good: really knew the museum collections and was very passionate about the history behind all that we were seeing. Her enthusiasm was contagious and she had us hanging on her every word right up until the tour ended. She spent extra time with us too to make recommendations of other places to see and where to eat. We received excellent service before, during and after the tour. This is really a great tour company!

Great museum tour

We were in a group of 5 people total with an awesome guide named Jessica. She's an art historian and so knowledgeable about all the pieces that are in the museum. We appreciated having such an expert helping us see everything and giving us hints and insights. She set just the right pace and was very attentive to everyone's interests and needs. We were very pleased with this tour and will tell everyone about it.

The best experience

We booked the small group British Museum tour with LivTours and were very happy with our choice. The company is very reliable, the office staff very accommodating and friendly and our guide for the museum tour was absolutely the BEST!! We were with 4 other people so truly a small group (as advertised) which made it so much more enjoyable. We saw people wondering around in the larger groups with the headsets and felt so sorry for them. Our tour was a million times better! Good job LivTours! We will recommend to all.

This was one of the best museum experiences I have ever had! Yes, the museum is awesome but it was all made so much better by our LivTour guide, Thomas. He was thorough and well prepared but also a delightful person, warm, friendly and very funny. Thanks Thomas and thanks LivTour for an unforgettable experience!

Choose dates later / Buy as a gift

By selecting Choose Dates Later / Buy as Gift at booking, any tour can be purchased without fixed dates. This is the perfect option if you want to purchase your tour as a gift for a loved one, or if you are in the pre-planning phase of your vacation. After booking, you will receive a Travel Voucher Code and full instructions on how to schedule your tours when ready. Once your travel plans are confirmed, you can easily use the Travel Voucher Code on the LivTours website to formally schedule your tours. You can find out more here .

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13 best greece tours: acropolis, meteora & more.

Visit Greece's islands and historic sites on one of these highly recommended excursions.

The Best Greece Tours

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Explore everything from Greece's ancient history to beautiful beaches to caldera vistas on a guided tour. Many say a sunset tour in Santorini is an incredible experience.

Greece has plenty to offer travelers from the ancient remains in Athens to the picturesque beaches on Crete to the iconic white buildings that dot Mykonos . With more than 200 islands to explore, making a choice of what to see can be dizzying. That's where a guided tour comes in. In-the-know locals can help guide you to some of the best sights Greece has to offer. Using both traveler opinion and expert input, U.S. News gathered a selection of the best tours available in Greece.

Sunset Oia Sailing Cruises – Diamond Cruise

Price: From 230 euros (roughly $250) Duration: 5 hours

Several travelers call this tour the highlight of their Santorini vacation. Reviewers also praise Sunset Oia Sailing Cruises' friendly crew and the delicious lunch served on board. On the Diamond luxury catamaran cruise, up to 20 travelers will make stops at Hot Springs, Red Beach and White Beach (the lunch spot) for swimming and snorkeling. Along the way, you'll cruise by Aspronisi and Indian Rock, among other sights. The final stop is at the caldera for some photo-ops.

The five-hour trips depart year-round at either 9:30 a.m. or 2:45 p.m. (the afternoon sailing is a sunset cruise). Tickets for both cruises start at 230 euros (about $250) per person. Hotel pickup and drop-off is included, as well as a barbecue lunch, alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks, use of towels, bathrooms and showers. Gratuity for your crew is extra. Alternatively, the Platinum Cruise offers a similar itinerary at a slightly lower price.

View & Book Tickets: Viator | GetYourGuide

Chat Tours – Delphi & Arachova

Price: From 88 euros (about $96) Duration: 10 hours

The Delphi Oracle was one of the most important fixtures in ancient Greece. The Greeks not only considered it the literal center of the world, but also traveled from all over to visit the Oracle and its priestess of Apollo – Pythia – to learn of the future. Chat Tours takes travelers to this famous site and the neighboring museum to learn all about its history and see plentiful artifacts. The tour also includes a scenic drive through both Arachova and Livadeia. Tourgoers say they enjoy the experience of this Delphia & Arachova tour and are impressed with the archaeology around the site.

Tickets start at 88 euros (about $96) for adults with discounts available for children. For an additional fee, you can add lunch. Trips run daily from April through October; they operate Monday, Wednesday and Friday from November to March. Tours last about 10 hours. Pickups from select Athens hotels begins at 7:30 a.m. Chat Tours runs several other day outings in Athens and also operates a few multiday Greece tours.

Rhodes Sea Lines – Sun & Sea All Inclusive Chilling Cruise

Price: From 45 euros (about $49) Duration: 3 hours

As the tour's name implies, Rhodes Sea Lines' Chilling Cruise is all about relaxation. For three hours, you'll get to lounge on the company's boat while the crew takes you to some of Rhodes' most beautiful inlets. There are also ample opportunities to swim and snorkel as you admire views of the Greek islands. Tour-takers urge future travelers to take the cruise, saying it was one of the best things they did on their vacation in Greece. They also appreciate the alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks and fresh fruit available.

Tours, which are capped at 28 passengers, depart at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. daily. Tickets start at 45 euros (approximately $49) per person. Transportation from your hotel is available on request. Rhodes Sea Lines also runs a trip to Lindos and another to Symi.

View & Book Tickets: Rhodes Sea Lines

Santorini Wine Adventure – Daytime Tour

Price: From 140 euros (about $153) Duration: 4.5 hours

During this 4.5-hour outing, travelers will sample as many as 12 different wines at three separate Santorini wineries. Tastings predominantly feature white wines (including those made from Assyrtiko, a grape native to the island), but you may also sample a few reds and some sweet varietals. In addition to wine tastings, you'll enjoy a tour of a volcanic vineyard. Travelers appreciate the ample snacks along the way – several say they didn't go hungry – as well as the informative guides. An added bonus is the small group size: only eight to 10 people can join.

Tours depart around 9:30 a.m. Monday through Saturday from May through October. Tickets start at 140 euros (around $153) per person. For an additional 10 euros (about $11), you can take this tour around sunset. Ticket fees include round-trip transportation from your accommodation. Santorini Wine Adventure also offers a few private wine-themed excursions throughout Greece.

View & Book Tickets:  Option 1 | Option 2

Athens Walking Tours – Athens City Tour, Acropolis & Acropolis Museum Tour

Price: From 120 euros (about $131) Duration: 5.5 hours

When you purchase this tour, you'll have the option to get skip-the-line tickets to the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum , which means you'll breeze by other visitors waiting in line. At the Acropolis, you'll see the monuments, incredible views of the city and ancient temples. The Acropolis Museum houses numerous artifacts discovered at the Acropolis. Plus, you'll get a morning tour of the city to see the Hellenic Parliament, the changing of the guards and the National Garden, among other sites. Travelers enjoy the tour, noting that visiting the Acropolis with a guide makes the trip much more interesting than if you had stopped here on your own itinerary.

This 5.5-hour tour operates year-round and departs at 9:30 a.m. Tickets including entrance fees to the attractions start at around 120 euros (about $131) for adults. Children may receive reduced or free admission. Tickets without attraction entry fees start at 67 euros (around $73). Athens Walking Tours also runs tours of the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum individually, among other options.

View & Book Tickets:  Viator | GetYourGuide

Odyssey Boat Kos – Kos-3 Island Cruise

Price: Adults from 28.50 euros (about $31); kids from 15 euros (about $16) Duration: 7 hours

Tour-takers routinely call this trip "amazing." They say the friendly staff, delicious lunch and interesting stops on three Greek islands make for a great day. The seven-hour tours depart Kos at 10 a.m. and return around 5:15 p.m. The first stop is Kalymnos and its town of Vathi, where you can explore its shops. The next stop, Plati, allows you to jump off the boat to swim in turquoise waters. The final stop is Pserimos to check out its small town or relax on the beach. Along the way, you'll also be served lunch and drinks.

Tickets start at 28.50 euros (about $31) for participants 12 and older, and 15 euros (around $16) for children ages 3 to 11. Children younger than 3 are free of charge. These Greece tours depart daily, usually from May through October.

Meteora Thrones Travel & Tourism Center – Authentic Hiking Meteora Tour

Price: Adults from 26 euros (about $28); kids from 19 euros (around $21) Duration: 4 hours

Meteora – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – has been home to monasteries since the 11th century. The monasteries sit atop towering sandstone formations and are awe-inspiring to visit. On this four-hour hiking tour, you'll trek about 5 miles among the great rocks. You'll also get to visit the interior of one of the monasteries. (Keep in mind: Visiting the monastery will cost an additional fee. Attire-wise, all visitors must wear shirts with sleeves and women are required to wear knee-length or longer skirts to enter. Men should wear shorts that hit below the knee, or long pants.) Hikers rave about the sites and say the guides are knowledgeable.

Tickets start at 26 euros (about $28) for adults and 19 euros (around $21) for children ages 4 to 12. Transportation to the site is included. Tours run daily starting at 9 a.m. and will pick you up at your hotel in Kalabaka or Kastraki, which sit about 220 miles northwest of Athens. Staying in Athens? Meteora Thrones also runs a train tour to Meteora that departs from Athens.

Alternative Athens – Athens Highlights Mythology Tour

Price: Adults from 65 euros (about $71); kids from 52 euros (about $57) Duration: 4 hours

Chances are, you've heard a Greek myth or two in your lifetime. During this tour with Alternative Athens, you'll have a chance to learn about some of the most famous myths, including stories of Theseus and the Minotaur, as well as gods and goddesses like Zeus, Athena, Aphrodite, Dionysus and more. As your guide spins tales, you'll see the Theatre of Dionysus, the Acropolis and the Agora, among other famous sites. Travelers say the tour is great for all ages and compliment the guides for their masterful storytelling.

Tickets start at 65 euros (around $71) for adults and 52 euros (approximately $57) for children ages 6 to 17; kids 5 and younger can enjoy the tour for free. Entry fees to the temples are not included in your ticket. Tours depart daily at 8:30 a.m. and are offered in either English or French. You'll meet at the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Alternative Athens runs other outings in the city, including a street art tour, shopping tours and food tours.

Visit Meteora – Meteora Sunset Tour

Price: From 35 euros (about $38) Duration: 4 hours

Travelers say seeing Meteora's majestic formations in the glow of the sunset is a must-do activity. Tourgoers took incredible photos and were thankful for the air-conditioned bus. Not only will you see the sunset over Meteora, but you'll also have the opportunity to visit a monastery, see the Kalabaka Byzantine Church and see the hermitages of Badova. Note: You will need to pay a small additional fee on-site to enter the monastery and the church, and modest clothing is required.

Tour tickets start at 35 euros (roughly $38) with discounts available for couples, families and children. The four-hour tour runs daily. Exact departure times vary based on the time of year to coincide with the sunset. Pickups are available from both Kalabaka and Kastraki. Visit Meteora offers a wide range of Meteora tours, including multiday adventures.

Santorini Day Tours – Santorini Catamaran Tour with Greek Meal and Hotel Transfers

Price: Adults from 150 euros (about $164); kids from 80 euros (about $87) Duration: 5 hours

Cruise the Aegean Sea, feast on a Greek meal and swim in Grecian waters on this catamaran outing with Santorini Day Tours. You'll sail near the Red and White beaches, snap photos of the Santorini coastline and swim in volcanic waters. (Note: The company recommends wearing a dark-colored swimsuit, as the waters near the volcano contain elements that may dye fabric.) Travelers compliment the gregarious staff and delicious food.

Trips depart April through October at 9:30 a.m. daily. Tickets for the five-hour tours start at 150 euros (about $164) for adults and 80 euros (about $87) for kids ages 4 to 10; children 3 and younger travel free. Tickets cover pickup from your hotel, drinks (including wine and beer), use of snorkeling equipment, lunch and use of towels, but does not include gratuity for your guide. Santorini Day Tours also runs land-based tours of the island as well as an Atlantis-themed tour.

Athens Walks – Athens Gourmet Food Tour

Price: Adults from 69 euros (about $75); kids from 40 euros (about $44) Duration: 4 hours

Samples of Greek coffee, wine, olive oil and doughnuts (loukoumades) – among other tastings – wow foodies who take this walking tour. The tour-takers also praise the savvy guides. Tours begin in Monastiraki Square. From here, your guide will lead you to local spots for food and drink samples. One stop is a specialty deli where you'll have the option to purchase cheese, olives, oils and other delights to take home. In total, you'll spend about four hours tasting your way through Athens.

Tickets start at 69 euros (about $75) for adults with discounts available for teens and children. Tours generally depart Monday through Saturday at multiple times each day. Athens Walks also operates tours of the Acropolis, the Acropolis Museum and the Parthenon , among others.

View & Book Tickets: Viator | GetYourGuide 

Abba Travel & Rentals – North Zante Full Day Tour

Price: Adults from 60 euros (about $66); kids from 35 euros (about $38) Duration: 6 to 9 hours

Discover Zakynthos on this tour that explores both land and water. The day begins in Bochali, a small northern village, then stops at two beaches for photos. The second leg of the tour takes you to Agios Nikolaos Port where you'll board a glass-bottom boat to tour the Blue Caves then journey to Shipwreck Beach for a swim. You'll make additional stops at Greek villages and an olive oil factory before returning to your accommodations. Travelers say this outing was a great addition to their vacation. Others called it "perfect."

Fees start at 60 euros (about $66) for tour-takers 12 and older and 35 euros (about $38) for children ages 3 to 11. Tours depart daily, though departure times vary – they can leave as early as 8 a.m. Trips last six to nine hours. Abba Travel & Rentals also runs a trip to the southern part of Zakynthos.

Naxos Sailing – Rina Cave & Small Cyclades

Price: From 110 euros (about $120) Duration: 10 hours

This tour has three different routes, and the route you take depends on both your preferences and the ocean conditions on the day of departure. The first option takes travelers to Kalados Bay for swimming and a meal prepared by a local chef. The second option takes tourgoers to Iraklia or Schinoussa to explore the villages there. The third choice is a trip to the Koufonisia islands to see impressive sea-made tunnels and Pano Koufonisi's towns. No matter which route is chosen, all tours begin with a visit to the sea caves at Rina. Reviewers say they enjoy not only the scenery, but also the opportunity to help sail the boat.

Tours run from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, departing from and returning to Naxos. Tickets start at 110 euros (around $120) per person. Keep in mind: The company owns one boat, so you may travel with people who chose a different tour. In this instance, the company says it will run the most popular tour choice (weather permitting).

View & Book Tickets: Naxos Sailing

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Greek Islands
• The Top Beaches in Greece
• The Best Places to Visit in Europe
• The Best International Travel Insurance Companies

Tags: Travel , Tours , Vacations , Greece

World's Best Places To Visit

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

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » California (CA) » 15 Things to Do in Santa Clara (CA)

15 Things to Do in Santa Clara (CA)

Santa Clara is a city of nearly 125,000 residents that’s located in Santa Clara County, about 75 kilometers south of San Francisco .

The city was founded more than 200 years ago as a Spanish Mission. Now, it’s most well-known for its booming tech industry that’s commonly referred to around the world as Silicon Valley.

Though it’s common knowledge to most football fans, it’s a surprise to many to discover that the relatively small city is also the home of the National Football League’s San Francisco 49ers.

Visitors to Santa Clara have abundant activity options at their fingertips without venturing outside city limits, so staying engaged and entertained shouldn’t be an issue.

1. Levi’s Stadium

With a capacity of nearly 70,000, Levi’s Stadium on Marie P. DeBartolo Way in Santa Clara is one of the country’s premier professional football stadiums.

The 49ers play their home games here, and during the off-season, the stadium hosts a variety of annual events, including concerts featuring big names in the music industry.

Taking a family to a football game isn’t the least expensive activity option in the area, but for those who’ve never taken in a pro game, it’s an exhilarating experience that may be worth the cost.

Guided tours are also regularly available, and the bars and restaurants around the stadium are fun to visit year-round.

2. Ulistac Natural Area

Despite its large population and the overall hustle and bustle, the Bay Area features plenty of urban parks and natural areas that are convenient options for those interested in enjoying the great outdoors.

The Ulistac Natural Area is located on Lick Mill Road in Santa Clara. It is comprised of more than 40 acres that include a variety of distinct environments.

The natural area straddles the Guadalupe River and is home to an array of plants and animals that are well-suited to its riparian habitat.

A particularly popular attraction for bird watchers, it features a number of well-marked nature trails dotted with interpretive signs.

3. Santa Clara Art & Wine Festival

Californians take their art and wine seriously, and there’s no better way to combine the two than by visiting the Santa Clara Art & Wine Festival.

The event is held in the city’s Central Park and features nearly 200 vendors from across the country selling fine art and crafts, gourmet food, and a vast selection of California’s best wines.

Proceeds are donated to worthwhile causes that benefit residents in need. It all takes place in the early fall when the central California weather is perfect for outdoor activities.

Other highlights include live entertainment and lots of art-related activities for kids.

4. The de Saisset Museum

Though he’s not exactly a household name for those who don’t typically travel in West Coast art circles, Ernest de Saisset was one of the Bay Area’s most prominent artists in the 19th century.

Saisset was a French immigrant who enrolled in Santa Clara University and studied painting as a young man.

The museum that now bears his name is located on the university’s campus. It includes a collection of more than 100 of his most impressive works.

It’s as much a historical attraction as it is an art one, and it also has other works from European and American artists dating back hundreds of years.

5. Intel Museum

Intel is one of the titans of the tech world. Over the years, it has been responsible for some of the most significant technological leaps forward in computer hardware.

The Intel Museum is located on the campus of the company’s world headquarters in Santa Clara, and it’s regularly open to the public.

Even for those who don’t fall into the tech-savvy category, it’s a fascinating place that’s definitely worth an hour or two of time.

Though it may sound dry to technophobes, it’s packed with interactive exhibits for visitors of all ages, so it’s great for kids with short attention spans too.

6. Santa Clara Farmers’ Market

There’s really no better way to rub elbows with locals, enjoy pleasant weather, and have access to tons of great products you won’t find elsewhere than by visiting a farmers’ market.

The Santa Clara Farmers’ Market is open year-round and features a little bit of everything – from seasonal produce and fresh baked goods to health and body products and prepared food items.

Held on Jackson Street near the downtown area, it’s common to find different items each time you go.

Spending a few bucks is a great way to support local farmers and entrepreneurs, and don’t be shy about asking them for suggestions for things to see and do while in town.

7. California’s Great America

There’s no shortage of theme parks in the Golden State, but there’s one clear choice for those visiting Santa Clara.

California’s Great America is located on Great America Parkway just outside of town. It features tons of rides, dining options, kid’s activities, and a water park that’s a huge draw during the hot summer months.

Though Great America can really draw a crowd during peak times when kids are enjoying their summer vacations, previous guests have noted that wait times for rides weren’t overly long.

Many families choose to spend an entire day on-site to avoid wasting valuable recreational time in the car.

8. Mission Santa Clara

Mission Santa Clara is one of the city’s premier historic sites, and it’s now conveniently located on the campus of Santa Clara University.

The mission was established by Franciscans in the 1770s to spread Christianity to the area’s Native American population.

Sadly, things didn’t go according to plan; due to several natural disasters, the mission was forced to move from its original site to where it is now.

Over the years, it was also run by the Jesuits. Though it’s no longer functioning in its original role, it now doubles as a museum and chapel that are open to visitors.

9. The Triton Museum of Art

Though guests tend to visit the Triton Museum of Art for the works in its collection, its stunning contemporary architecture usually makes a big impression as well.

The museum’s collection includes works from all over the country, but its emphasis is on pieces created by Bay Area artists using local people and scenery as inspiration.

The grounds also include a sprawling outdoor sculpture garden spread over nearly seven acres, and a home from the mid-1860s that’s among the most well-preserved examples of historic American architecture in the area.

The museum is located on Warburton Avenue, and most visitors spend a few hours on-site.

10. Santa Clara Players

The Santa Clara Players traces its roots all the way back to the early ‘60s, when a group of local performers began putting on small shows for the community.

Now nearly seven decades later, they’re still going strong. Their annual performances run the gamut from dramatic theater and mystery to satire and humor.

The players are part of a community theater group staffed by talented volunteers dedicated to providing high-quality, family-friendly entertainment at a reasonable cost.

They’re located on Don Avenue in Santa Clara and offer lots of volunteer opportunities for budding actors and stagehands.

11. Central Park

Featuring lots of wide-open spaces and massive swimming and community rec centers, Santa Clara’s Central Park is a go-to destination for activity minded visitors looking to make the most of their limited vacation time without traveling to more distant attractions.

The park is centrally located on Keily Boulevard, has ample parking, and features lots of outdoor amenities and recreational activity options.

From tennis and basketball to softball, lawn bowling, and a big playground, there’s really no excuse for getting bored while on-site. For those looking to spend a relaxing afternoon, there are a lake, built-in BBQs, and public restrooms.

12. The 49ers Museum

Even for those who won’t be in Santa Clara during the regular season, the 49ers stadium and museum are fun attractions worth visiting for sports-minded visitors.

The museum is located inside Levi’s Stadium and features nearly a dozen distinct galleries that are open to the public year-round.

It’s a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages. In addition to football, its exhibits touch on science, technology, and art in a way that engages and entertains young and old minds alike.

Most guests check out the introductory video in the visitor’s center before showing themselves through the impressive collection of trophies, balls, and Super Bowl memorabilia on display.

13. The Santa Clara Fire Museum

The Santa Clara Fire Department’s roots run all the way back to the 1850s when it was founded.

The museum is now located on Walsh Avenue in an unused training center behind the city’s new fire station.

It sports an impressive collection of equipment and historical memorabilia that give visitors unique insights into the lives of fire and rescue personnel in years past.

The museum’s highlights include a fully restored Model-T fire truck that served for two decades, beginning in the 1920s.

The knowledgeable local volunteer staff also offer regular programs geared at educating the public about fire safety and prevention issues.

14. Edward Peterman Museum of Railroad History

The Edward Peterman Museum of Railroad History is run by a local historical society. It is housed in the depot of a now-defunct railroad on Railroad Avenue in Santa Clara.

Like many local historical attractions, the museum is staffed by local volunteers who love answering questions and showing first-time visitors around.

The museum’s exhibits include a variety of railroad equipment and memorabilia, including signals, safety equipment, and historical photographs dating back over 100 years.

The museum is regularly open to the public. It maintains an extensive library of books relating to railroad development and local history as well.

15. Voyager Coffee

Though it has only been around since 2016, Voyager Coffee’s owner and staff are dedicated to the noble pursuit of making their customers happy.

They do this largely by providing world-class coffee, but also by offering a comfortable space in which guests have opportunities to build relationships with like-minded customers.

Many of their coffees sport internationally influenced flavors, and they’re often infused with things like orange essence and cherry blossom water.

Don’t worry if you prefer your coffee straight-up, because they’ve got more traditional brews as well.

They offer fresh pastry and baked goods, tea, and other non-coffee drinks too.

15 Things to Do in Santa Clara (CA):

• Levi's Stadium
• Ulistac Natural Area
• Santa Clara Art & Wine Festival
• The de Saisset Museum
• Intel Museum
• Santa Clara Farmers’ Market
• California's Great America
• Mission Santa Clara
• The Triton Museum of Art
• Santa Clara Players
• Central Park
• The 49ers Museum
• The Santa Clara Fire Museum
• Edward Peterman Museum of Railroad History
• Voyager Coffee

I took the tour again recently, because I had been told that it had improved since my last visit.

The result?  Yes, it is improved.

They addressed all of my earlier complaints about the  tour guides:

• I had complained that it was sometimes hard to hear them speak, so they now pass out individual headphones that allow guests to easily hear the guide under all conditions.
• I had noted that it was strictly a walking tour, and that all that walking could be a bit tiring for some members of the group.  So now they shuttle guests around in golf carts that hold about six people each - making for small, intimate tour groups, and making it easy for the less hardy to easily traverse the lot.
• I had also complained that the tour guides' training seemed lacking, when it came to knowing the history of the studio.  But if the guide on my latest tour was typical, they have solved that problem as well.  Our guide, Travis, seemed well-versed on both the history and current activities of the studio, as well as being personable & professional.  He couldn't have done a much better job, given the natural limitations of the tour.  They have also outfitted the guides with iPads, which allow them to show guests photos and short videos illustrating the subjects under discussion.

And unless I'm imagining it, the studio lot itself (or at least its southern edge, around the Paseo) seems to look better, more gentrified, than on my previous trips - almost resembling a college campus in spots.

All in all, those are some nice improvements, and make for a much better tour than what I experienced in my earlier visits to the studio.

However, what they couldn't fix are the problems inherent to the Paramount lot itself.

Don't get me wrong, Paramount Studios is one of the most historic studio lots in town (and in fact, the only major studio still officially inside the Hollywood borders).  They made the very first movie to win an Academy Award ("Wings"), and on this lot they have shot such classics as  "The Godfather", "Forrest Gump", "Titanic", "Raiders of the Lost Ark", "Going My Way", "Sunset Blvd", "Breakfast at Tiffany's", "King Kong", "Braveheart", "Grease" and the "Star Trek" series, to name just a few.

But what it lacks is a traditional big back lot, full of permanent standing outdoor sets.  This was a staple of the major studios back in the Golden Age, filled with faux residential neighborhoods, jungles, mock railroads, Western towns, and Paris streets.  These big back lots were always the most colorful and interesting aspects of any movie studio, at least from the standpoint of a visitor.  MGM had a huge back lot, before they tore it down in the '70s.  Warner Bros. still has theirs.  As does Universal, of course.

To the average tour guest, all sound stages look more or less the same: distinguished only by the large numbers painted on their sides.  When they're in use, they are usually off-limits to tours.  When they are not in use, they are usually empty or filled with folded flats and lighting equipment.  So the guides are mostly limited to driving past these faceless barns, and telling us the history of each one, with tour guests catching an occasional glimpse of their dark, mostly empty interiors through the occasional open door.

( I noticed that they have added plaques to the outside of each sound stage, listing the notable movies & TV shows made inside.  That's great, except that the tour tram usually doesn't get close enough, or stop long enough for guests to read them. )

I realize that they can't, in practical terms, let the guests watch while movies are being made.  But they could (and should) show us more of the behind-the-scenes process.  Guests need to see things like the costume department, the prop houses, the recording studios, the dressing rooms, the mini-factories where they build the sets - and it sure wouldn't hurt to show guests at least one movie camera somewhere along the tour.

In short, they keep guests on the outside far too often, looking at exterior walls passing by, and listening to the guide's spiel.  Granted, the general buzz of the studio (its streets cluttered with white production trailers, and buzzing with the bikes and golf carts used to get around the lot) can be interesting in its own right, but a little of that goes a long way.

During my most recent tour, we only went inside twice: once to step into a tiny, empty, corner space in the New York set (that was once used for filming a scene from "Breakfast at Tiffany's"), and a second time to visit the empty set of "The Doctors" (a daytime TV talk show that I honestly never heard of).

Still, the tour is indeed better than it used to be, and I have to give them high marks for making an effort. And it remains superior to the Sony studio tour , which is just downright boring.  However, it still doesn't measure up to the Warner Bros. tour , with its huge back lot and more comprehensive tour.

But there are legitimate reasons why someone might opt for the Paramount tour.

As the photo on the left shows, Paramount is the only major studio where you have a view of the Hollywood Sign from inside the lot. OK, let's get into the details of what you'll see:

The Paramount tour takes a full two hours, and barely scratches the surface of the numerous buildings and sound stages that make up the 65-acre studio.

When he does, your first stop will be the Paramount gift shop, where they will give you some time to wander around the small store (where they no doubt hope you will spend your money on one of their t-shirts or coffee mugs, all bearing the familiar Paramount mountain logo).  You can also get a cup of coffee here, and relax for a moment under an umbrella at a patio table just outside.

They will then head east along the south edge of the studio lot, along the Paseo, the tiled walkway that runs parallel to Melrose, inside the studio.  On the right (south) edge of this broad walkway is a small strip of lawn, called Marathon Park, that is often also used for filming (due to its convenient location and relatively low cost), and the guide will tell you about a few of those productions.

Then it is on to the iconic Bronson gate (the one featured in "Sunset Blvd", "The Artist", and many other films), where you'll be given the chance to pose for photos near that famous arch.  (It is indeed a very photogenic spot.)

This brief history lecture (visually aided by the guide's iPad) seems to replace the short film about Paramount that used to be shown to tour guests before the start of the tour.  That's a mixed blessing, since its hard for a single person, no matter how talented, to compete with a professionally-made documentary film featuring the highlights of the studio's 100-year history.

Back outside on the Paseo, you'll be shown the original bench from "Forrest Gump", and regaled with stories about how Tom Hanks showed up one day to sit on the bench and pass out chocolates to passersby.

Then it's back on the tram, and through the Bronson gate into the actual working studio.

From here on in, the tours are somewhat played by ear.

As an example, on my visit, the guide ran into an unexpected problem.  While taking us to see the New York set (usually the highlight of the tour), he found his way blocked by a giant white tent, erected for some special event (you can rent the New York set for just such events, if you have the $10,000 a day it costs).  As a result, we ended up having to take a roundabout route and ended up seeing only a small section of the large New York set (portions of which mimic several East Coast cities).

We got out and were allowed to step inside the empty shell of a small storefront that our guide told us was used as the interior for Alex's boutique, called "Xela" on the TV sitcom "Happy Endings".  Since I never watched the show, that didn't mean much to me.

We were shown clips (via the guide's iPad) of a scene shot there from "Breakfast at Tiffany's".

We were also shown a very small alleyway just outside with fake bricks, and with fake sewers that could be rigged to emit steam, to add to that east coast ambiance.

Along the way, there was a lot of talk of the current TV shows filming on the lot: "NCIS", "Glee" "Happy Endings" and "Rizzoli & Isles".  There are also a lot of Nickelodeon kid shows filming at the studio, with names like "Big Time Rush" and "Marvin Marvin", which didn't ring a bell with most of the adults on this tour.

Tourists always hope to see a celebrity on a tour like this, but that is always a longshot chance.

We also saw a number of little kids spill out of a bus, and were told they were the cast of an upcoming Nickelodeon show called "Haunted Hathaways".  But since the show hasn't aired yet, that didn't mean much.

Likewise, our guide later pointed out a tween girl in a colorful dress, and identified her as Ryan Newman, an up-&-coming star (according to our guide) appearing with Tony Danza on his latest sitcom, "See Dad Run".

But, as expected, the better-known stars of "NCIS", "Glee" or even "Happy Endings" were nowhere in sight.

Finally, we headed to the southwest corner of the Paramount lot, which used to be RKO Studios, and later DesiLu (before Paramount absorbed it).

Our guide showed us Lucy Park (and an adjacent childcare center built by Lucille Ball for her employees).

We took a look at (the exterior) of Stage 21, where RKO filmed the original "King Kong", and then it was back to the studio cafe (seen on "Glee" as "Breadsticks"), where we disembarked and dispersed (after more encouragement to spend money in the studio gift shop).

The bottom line?  The studio tour is better than it used to be, and well worth the time, when you're in Hollywood.  But it could still be better.  And the historic Paramount lot, while it has a lot to offer, isn't the ideal movie studio for a tour.

Parking : Parking is available across the street from the famous Bronson gate, in a paid lot at the corner of Bronson & Melrose. (The cost for parking was a flat $10.00 on my last visit.)

Admission Price : $53 for the two-hour guided tour. (No one under age 10 is allowed on the tour.) Advance reservations are required (at 323-956-1777, or online at www.paramountstudiotour.com ).

(They also offer a special  4 1/2 hour VIP tour, once per week – on weekday mornings at 9:30 AM, and weekday afternoons at 1 PM. The cost is $178, and reservations are necessary .)

 [ Prices are current as of December 2014.]

You enter through the new double-arch Paramount gate on Melrose, just west of the older Bronson gate. There is a pedestrian walkway on the right (east) side of this entrance. Stop at the booth there.

Hours : Guided tours of the studio are given every day (except some holidays), every half hour from 9:30 AM to 2 PM.  (Weekend schedule may vary.) The tours last two hours.

[For more information on this subject, you can access Paramount's official website at: http://www.paramount.com .]