london bus tour price comparison

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

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

Tootbus has routes to major sights and free cruises

London's hop-on sightseeing bus tour providers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TOOTBUS HOP-ON BUS & GUIDED WALKING TOURS

Tootbus London Discovery tickets + Vox City guided walking tours

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

DISCOUNTED BIG BUS LONDON TICKETS

DISCOUNTED TICKETS COMPARED WITH BOOKING DIRECT

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

GOLDEN TOURS HOP-ON BUS LONDON TICKETS

Hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus London & 2 walking tours

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

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

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

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

Walking Tours

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

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

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

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

River cruises

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

Routes and vehicles

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

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

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

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

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

Tootbus route map London 2024

Big Bus Tour map London 2024

Golden Tours route map London 2024

Live guides vs audio guides

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Times and frequencies of buses

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

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

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

Standard tour ticket durations

24, 48 or 72-hr durations.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Evening tours (not hop on, hop off)

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

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

Discounted - cheapest tickets

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tootbus are not part of the London Pass scheme.

Key points of the London Pass Ho Ho bus offer

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

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

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

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

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

London Pass more details

Free river cruises

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thames river cruise ticket options by company

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

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

Golden Tours

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

Hop-on buses in London plus attractions - money saving

Save money buying attraction tickets & bus tour in one package

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

Golden Tours hop-on buses plus top London attraction

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

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

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

Big bus + attraction through discount london.

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

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

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

Big Bus + attraction through Big Bus website

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

Tootbus and add-on attraction in London

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

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

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

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

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

Tootbus official website

Big Bus official website

Golden Tours official website

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

Top of the page

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

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

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

17 Best London Bus Tours in 2023 (ranked!)

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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!

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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.

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The 5 Best London Bus Tours – [2024 Reviews]

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

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

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

Best Bus Tours of London

Quick answer: the 5 best bus tours of london.

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

Bus Tours of London Reviews

#1 buckingham palace and vintage bus tour of london.

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

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

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

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

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

Tour Information & Booking

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other Experiences You May Enjoy:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

London Travel Guide

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tip #1: Bring Your Walking Shoes

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

Tip #2: Bring a Converter or Transformer

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

Tip #3: Start Planning Your Trip Early

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

Tip #4: Always Bring an Umbrella

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

Tip #5: Start Budgeting in Advance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The History, Beauty, and Mysticism of Stonehenge

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

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

Enjoy your trip to London!

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

Richard Moore

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

Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus Tour in London + River Cruise

Jumping on a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing bus tour in London is definitely one of the best ways to explore such a big city like London. These sightseeing bus tours are suitable for all the family, and you can just sit back and relax and let it take you to London’s most important landmarks.

One of London´s most important sightseeing bus tour is the one offered by Big Bus Tours. You can hop-on and hop-off any of their three fascinating routes, and with more than 30 stops, you won´t miss any of London´s most important must-sees.

Hop on and hop off all the times you want and wherever you want during the day and see London in one of the most effective ways, on the topless upper deck of a double decker sightseeing bus. But don’t worry if the weather isn’t great as you’ll be able to avoid the cold or rain at the front of the upper deck which is covered, just in case!

Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus Tour in London: Advantages

There are a few reasons why we recommend a Hop-on Hop-off sightseeing bus tour in London:

• Discover all of London´s must sees:  The streets, the famous squares, the monuments and the important attractions and the best thing is that you don´t have to worry about looking at a map and getting lost. Just enjoy the ride.
• You can hop on and off as many times as you want during the day on all the different routes, so you will spend less time on public transport during your trip. Let´s be honest, you get to see much more on the top deck of a bus than on the London Underground!
• The ticket includes a River Cruise on the Thames.
• The ticket also includes a free guided walking tour  in London (See more details below).
• Enjoy the live commentary or listen to the recorded commentary (multi-lingual if English is not your preferred choice!) and discover all the interesting things you didn´t know about London.
• You also get a free discount book  which includes discounts to other attractions and restaurants in London such as the Hard Rock Café.
• They have the largest fleet of open top buses in London , so they run a lot more frequently than other sightseeing tour buses.
• Sightseeing bus tour tickets are valid for 6 months from the date of purchase, so you do not have to redeem them on a particular day. This is great because you can do the tour any day that suits you.

Big Bus London Hop-on Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour Prices

There are 3 different ticket types for the hop-on hop-off sightseeing Bus Tour in London: Classic , Premium and Deluxe .

Each one of these tickets has 3 different prices: Adults, Children (5 – 15) and Family (2 adults + 2 children under 15).

These are the different tickets available and their respective prices:

Classic: 1 Day Ticket

With this ticket you will be able to hop-on and hop-off Big Bus sightseeing bus tour as many times as you like during one day. It also includes a one way Thames River Cruise ticket (London Eye – Tower of London) and the Guided Walking Tour .

Classic Ticket Prices: Adults: £35 Children (5 – 15): £26 Family ticket (2 adults + 2 Children): £106.60

⇒ Find out more: Big Bus Tours Classic Ticket

Premium: 2 Day Ticket

The Premium ticket is valid for two consecutive days . You can hop on and hop off as many times as you like on any of the big bus routes for two days. This ticket also includes a round trip ticket on a Thames River Cruise and a free Guided Walking Tour , as well as the Night Tour during the summer months.

Premium Ticket Prices: Adult ticket: £40.40 Child ticket (5 – 15): £31.40 Family ticket (2 adults + 2 Children): £124.60

⇒ Find out more: Big Bus Tours Premium Ticket

Deluxe: 3 Day Ticket

The Deluxe ticket is valid for three consecutive days . You can hop on and hop off as many times as you like on any of the bug bus routes for three days. This ticket also includes a round trip ticket on a Thames River Cruise and the free Guided Walking Tour , as well as the Night Tour during the summer months.

Deluxe Ticket Prices: Adult ticket: £44.90 Child ticket (5 – 15): £35.90 Family ticket (2 adults + 2 Children): £139.60

⇒ Find out more: Big Bus Tours Deluxe Ticket

Night Tour and Hotel Return Service

During the summer months there is also the possibility of hopping on a sightseeing bus tour to see London at night. This night tour runs until the end of September. This night tour is also included when you buy deluxe (2 day) and premium (3 day) tickets, but you can also buy tickets for the night tour only.

There are three night tours per evening that depart from the London Eye, Victoria Station and Marble Arch. The pick-up times are:

• London Eye (stop 7) at 19:30, 20:00 & 20:30
• Victoria (stop 29) at 19:45, 20:15 & 20:45
• Marble Arch (stop 4) at 20:00, 20:30 & 21:00.  From Marble Arch, which is the last stop of the tour, there is a free hotel return service that goes to Paddington, Bayswater, Notting Hill & Kensington at the end of the tour.

Night Tour only Prices: Adult ticket: £24.90 Child ticket (5 – 15): £15.00 Family ticket (2 adults + 2 Children): £64.80

Combined tickets: Big Bus Sightseeing Tour + Attraction

There is also the possibility of buying combined tickets   for Big Bus HO-HO sightseeing bus tour in London with tickets to one of London’s Top Attractions , resulting in great savings.

Once you have bought tickets, the driver or a member of staff from Big Bus Tours (at any Big Bus Tours stop) will exchange your tickets, giving you the tickets for the sightseeing bus tour as well as the tickets to your chosen attraction.

Combo tickets:  > Big Bus Tours + London Eye > Big Bus Tour + Madame Tussauds > Big Bus Tour + Tower of London > Big Bus Tour + St Paul’s Cathedral

Big Bus Tour + London Eye

This ticket includes a 1 day ticket for the hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tour (classic ticket) and entry to the London Eye . This ticket also includes a free river cruise and a free guided walking tour . Online tickets can be redeemed at any Big Bus Stop. You will need to use your tickets for the sightseeing bus tour and the river cruise that same day, and you will have 90 days to use your London Eye tickets.

You can buy normal entry tickets to the London Eye or fast track tickets. With fast track tickets you won’t have to queue at all.

Prices with Normal London Eye entry: Adult ticket: £64.80 Child ticket: £47.90 Family ticket (2 adults + 2 children): £227.30

⇒ Find out more: Big Bus Tour + London Eye Tickets

Prices with Fast Track London Eye entry: Adult ticket: £67.80 Child ticket: £58.80 Family ticket (2 adults + 2 children): £189.00

⇒ Find out more: Big Bus Tour + London Eye Fast-Track Tickets

Big Bus Tour + Madame Tussauds

This ticket includes a 1 day ticket for the hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tour (classic ticket) and entry to Madame Tussauds Wax Museum . This ticket also includes a free river cruise and a free guided walking tour .

You can redeem your tickets at any Big Bus Stop. Online tickets can be redeemed at any Big Bus Stop. You will need to use your tickets for the sightseeing bus tour and the river cruise that same day, and you will have 90 days to use your Madame Tussauds tickets.

Prices for 1 day bus tour + Madame Tussauds Adult ticket:  £65.80 Child ticket: £52.80 Family ticket: £211.40

⇒ Find out more: Big Bus Tour + Madame Tussauds Tickets

Big Bus Tour + Tower of London

You can choose a 1, 2 or 3 day ticket for the hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tour (classic, premium or deluxe ticket) and entry to the Tower of London. These tickets also includes a free river cruise and a free guided walking tour .

You can redeem your tickets at any Big Bus Stop. Online tickets can be redeemed at any Big Bus Stop. You will need to use your tickets for the sightseeing bus tour and the river cruise that same day, and you will have 3 days to use your Tower of London tickets.

Prices for 1 day bus tour (Classic ticket) + Tower of London Adult ticket: £61.80 Child ticket (5 – 15): £38.90

⇒ Find out more: Big Bus Tour Classic + Tower of London

Prices for 2 day bus tour (Premium ticket) + Tower of London Adult ticket: £67.80 Child ticket (5 – 15): £43.90

⇒ Find out more: Big Bus Tour Premium + Tower of London

Prices for 3 day bus tour (Deluxe ticket) + Tower of London Adult ticket: £71.80 Child ticket (5 – 15): £48.90

⇒ Find out more: Big Bus Tour Deluxe + Tower of London

Big Bus Tour + St. Paul’s Cathedral

You can choose a 1, 2 or 3 day ticket for the hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tour (classic, premium or deluxe ticket) and entry to St Paul’s Cathedral. These tickets also includes a free river cruise and a free guided walking tour .

Online tickets can be redeemed at any Big Bus Stop. You will need to use your tickets for the sightseeing bus tour and the river cruise that same day, and you will have 90 days to use your St Paul’s Cathedral tickets.

Prices for 1 day bus tour (Classic ticket) + St Paul’s Cathedral Adult ticket: £61.80 Child ticket (5 – 15): £38.90

⇒ Find out more: Big Bus Tour Classic + St Paul’s Cathedral

Prices for 2 day bus tour (Premium ticket) + St Paul’s Cathedral Adult ticket: £67.80 Child ticket (5 – 15): £43.90

⇒ Find out more: Big Bus Tour Premium + St Paul’s Cathedral

Prices for 3 day bus tour (Deluxe ticket) + St Paul’s Cathedral Adult ticket: £71.80 Child ticket (5 – 15): £48.90

⇒ Find out more: Big Bus Tour Deluxe + St Paul’s Cathedral

Routes and Timetable for London’s Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour

There are 4 different routes which will take you to see London’s top landmarks. You can hop-on and hop-off of any of the routes as many times as  you like, and change routes whenever you want. This just makes sightseeing in London very easy, and it saves you having to use public transport in London to get from one place to another.

It’s also good to know that you can start your journey on the sightseeing bus tour at any bus stop, on any route, so you can start your journey at the bus stop that suits you best.

⇒ Here you will find a map with the routes and timetables: London Sightseeing Bus Tour Map .

1. Classic Red Tour

The first bus of this route departs at 8.10 am from the stop located just in front of Green Park underground station, on Piccadilly Street and there are buses approximately every 5 minutes. This route is the Classic Tour, a route that passes through 15 of the most important tourist places in London, including Westminster Abbey, London Eye, Big Ben, Covent Garden, the Tower of London and St. Paul’s Cathedral among others. The red route has a live commentary in English, and there are also recorded commentaries in several languages.

The red route takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes, and has several stops in common with the blue route: stops from 2 to 5, from 7 to 11 and stop 15. It also coincides with the green route at stop 9.

2. Big Blue Tour

The first bus of the blue route departs at 8.36 am from stop number 2, which is located at Hyde Park Corner, and there are buses approximately every 5 or 10 minutes. The nearest underground stop is Green Park. The blue route is a slightly longer route, and coincides in almost all the stops with the red route, but also goes round Hyde Park, passing through the South Kensington area, where the natural history museum, the science museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum are located. It also goes past Harrods and towards Regent’s Park stopping at Baker Street, where the Sherlock Holmes museum and Madame Tussauds wax museum are located. The blue route has recorded commentaries.

The blue route takes almost 3 hours and coincides with the red route at stops 2 to 5, from 7 to 11 and stop 15. It also connects with the green route at stop 9 .

3. Green Link

The green link is very short and connects the famous Trafalgar Square with King’s Cross and St Pancras underground and train stations, going past the British museum. If you are going to spend a day in London and arrive at the King’s Cross – St Pancras station, we recommend that you use the tourist bus, since you can start the route here, change at Trafalgar Square to another route and see London easily before returning to King’s Cross with the green link again if you need to.

The first bus on the green route leaves from Covent Garden at 8.20 am, where it also links to the blue and red routes.

4. Night tour: Hotel Return Service 

The purple route is the hotel return service. It covers the areas from Marble Arch to Gloucester Road, so it’s ideal if your hotel is anywhere in between – such as Paddington, Bayswater, Notting Hill or Kensington. It runs up to 2 hours later than the other routes mentioned above.

Bus stops and timetables

Here you can find a list of the bus stops from the RED and BLUE routes, and the time of departure of the first bus at each one of them. After that, buses run every 5 – 10 minutes. Guide: Red Route ( RR ), Blue Route ( BR ) and Green Link ( GL ).

⇒ See Sightseeing Bus Tour Route Map Here

1. GREEN PARK ( RR ) – Green Park Underground Station, next to the Ritz Hotel 2. HYDE PARK CORNER ( RR , BR )  – Opposite Hard Rock Cafe 3. QUEEN MOTHER GATES ( RR , BR ) – Opposite Hilton Hotel 4. MARBLE ARCH ( RR , BR ) – Speakers’ Corner in Hyde Park 5. MAYFAIR ( RR , BR ) – Park Lane Big Bus Stop 6. ROYAL MEWS ( RR ) – 31 Buckingham Palace Road Bus Stop 7. LONDON EYE ( RR , BR ) – Westminster Bridge Road Bus Stop 8. WATERLOO ( RR , BR ) – York Road Bus Stop 9. COVENT GARDEN ( RR , BR , RV) – Big Bus Stop at No.1 Aldwych 10. ST PAUL´S CATHEDRAL ( RR , BR ) – 26 Ludgate Hill Bus Stop 11. TOWER OF LONDON ( RR , BR ) – 362 Tower Hill Bus Stop 12. YORK ROAD ( RR )– Westminster Bridge Road Bus Stop 14. WHITEHALL ( RR ) – Big Bus Stop opposite Horse Guards 15. TRAFALGAR SQUARE   ( RR , BR ) –  Pall Mall East Bus Stop Z 16. BAKER STREET ( RR ) – Big Bus Stop at 9 Marylebone Road 17. OXFORD STREET ( BR ) – Bus Stop RF on Regent Street 18. REGENT STREET ( BR )– Bus Stop V on Regent Street 19. PICCADILLY CIRCUS ( BR )– Bus Stop G on Regent Street 20. HAYMARKET ( BR )– Big Bus Stop at No.11 Haymarket  **The blue route after stopping at stop number 20 stops at stop 15 at Trafalgar Square, where it coincides with the red route** 21. CRAIG´S COURT ( BR ) – Bus Stop at Craig’s Court and Whitehall Corner 22. WHITEHALL ( BR ) – Bus Stop at No.61 Whitehall **The blue route after stopping at stop number 22 stops at stops number 7, 8, 9, 10 and  11 coinciding with the red route** 23. WESTMINSTER PIER ( BR ) – Bus Stop at No.30-35 Victoria Embankment 24. LAMBETH PLACE ( BR ) – Lambeth Palace Road Bus Stop 25. COLLEGE GREEN ( BR ) – Abingdon Street Bus Stop 26. TOTHILL STREET ( BR ) – Bus Stop at No. 43-45 Tothill Street 27. BUCKINGHAM PALACE ( BR ) – Bus Stop  at No.1 Buckingham Gate 28. RUBEN´S HOTEL ( BR ) – Bus Stop at No. 39 Buckingham Palace Road 29. VICTORIA ( BR ) – Bus Stop opposite The Bag of Nails Pub 30. VICTORIA STATION  ( BR ) – Bus Stop at No. 111 Buckingham Palace Road **The blue route after stopping at stop number 30 stops at stops number 3, 4 and 5 coinciding with the red route ** 31. GREEN PARK ( BR ) – Green Park Underground Station Bus Stop **The blue route after stopping at stop number 31 stops at stop number 2 coinciding with the red route** 32. HYDE PARK CORNER ( BR ) –  Bus Stop at No. 1 Knightsbridge 33. HARRODS ( BR ) – Bus Stop at Harrods, No. 87-135 Brompton Road 34. SOUTH KENSIGNTON MUSEUMS  ( BR ) – Bus Stop at No. 6 Thurloe Place 35. GLOUCESTER ROAD  ( BR ) – Bus Stop at No. 128 Gloucester Road 36. KENSINGTON PALACE  ( BR ) – Bus Stop at No. 5 Kensington High Street 37. NOTTING HILL GATE  ( BR ) – Bus Stop at No. 14 Notting Hill Gate 38. KENSINGTON GARDENS  ( BR ) – Bus Stop at No. 150 Bayswater Road 39. THISTLE HOTEL  ( BR ) – Bus Stop at No. 104 Bayswater Road 40. BAYSWATER ( BR ) – Bayswater Road Bus Stop 41. PADDINGTON STATION  ( BR ) – Bus Stop at No. 25 London St 42. WOBURN ( GL ) – Bus Stop opposite Royal National Hotel 43. EUSTON STATION  ( GL ) – Bus Stop L, Upper Woburn Place 44. KING´S CROSS STATION  ( GL ) – Pancras Way Bus Stop 45. ST. PANCRAS STATION  ( GL ) – Midland Road Bus Stop 46. EUSTON ROAD ( GL ) – Bus Stop M, Upper Woburn Place 47. WOBURN (SOUTHBOUND) ( GL ) – Bus Stop J, in front of Russel Court 48. BRITISH MUSEUM (SOUTHBOUND) ( GL ) – Bus Stop X, Southampton Row 49. DUNCANNON STREET ( GL ) – Bus Stop G, Duncannon Street.

FREE River Cruise when you buy Hop-On, Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour tickets

A Thames River Cruise is honestly one of the best things you can  do when visiting London, this is something that I always recommend friends and family do when they come to visit us. If it’s your first time in London I can guarantee that a cruise on the Thames will leave you speechless, as you can see many famous landmarks from the river. And the best thing is: You get a free river cruise with the London hop-on, hop-off sightseeing bus tour tickets. Boom!

The river cruise included is a one way ticket if you’re buying a one day sightseeing bus tour ticket, or a return ticket if you’re buying a 2 or 3 day bus tour ticket. The cruise runs from Westminster Pier to Tower of London. If you have a one day bus tour ticket you need to do the river cruise on that same day, but don’t worry as there is plenty of time do both, you would even have time to go on the London Eye on the same day.

Free Guided Walking Tour

You will also be able to make the most of your sightseeing bus tour tickets by joining the free walking tour that’s included in your ticket. The tour starts at the Big Bus Tours Bus Stop in Trafalgar Square at 10.20 am, and you will be able to enjoy the Changing of the Guard at 11.00 am at Buckingham Palace and learn all about St James’ Palace.

Related Posts

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

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Those who are looking for some guidance on the best bus tours in London , this article has got you covered! Riding along on top of a double decker bus has to be one of the essential things to do in London for any visitor looking to get a deeper insight into the city.

If you’re in a rush, I’ve picked the top 3 bus tours in London summarized in the table below. For more information and further options, keep reading!

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• bus tours in London

1 – City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 ( 2856 reviews )

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

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

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

Summary of the tour:

• Hop on and off at your leisure
• Choose between three routes
• Enjoy 24 or 48 hour access

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

2 – Brigit’s Afternoon Tea Bus in London

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 1276 reviews )

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

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

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

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

• Afternoon tea on board
• Savory and sweet treats available
• Audio commentary throughout

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

3 – London by Night Sightseeing Bus Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 771 reviews )

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

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

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

• Sightseeing at nighttime
• Live tour guide on board
• Open top bus

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

4 – Guided Harry Potter Locations Sightseeing Bus Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 ( 439 reviews )

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

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

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

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

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

5 – Luxury 6 Course Bus Dining Experience

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 134 reviews )

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

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

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

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

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

6 – Comedy Horror Ghost Tour on a Bus

Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 ( 1568 reviews )

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

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

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

Feel the goosebumps developing as you discover a different side of London on a ghost tour !

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

7 – London Christmas Lights Tour on Open-Top Bus

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 361 reviews )

“A wonderful tour showing the stunning Christmas lights of London.” Lesley, Viator

This Christmas Lights bus tour by Golden Tours is guaranteed to bring you joy on a wintry night in London. See the city glow with Christmas spirit as you pass by some of its most famous attractions, including the London Eye, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey.

You’ll also drive down Oxford Street and Regent Street , known for their world-renowned Christmas lights. On the way, enjoy live commentary that enhances your knowledge and experience. While you may be chilly on the outside, your heart will be warmed by the festive display.

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

8 – London by Night Sightseeing Open Top Bus Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 457 reviews )

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

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

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

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

9 – Afternoon Tea Bus with a Glass of Prosecco

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 762 reviews )

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

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

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

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

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

Rating: ⭐️ 4.4/5 ( 1947 reviews )

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

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

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

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

11 – James Bond Bus Tour of London

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 47 reviews )

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

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

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

This James Bond tour caters to both adults and children, making it suitable for all ages!

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

12 – Big Bus Tour of London

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 2 reviews )

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

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

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

13 – Tootbus Hop On Hop Off Bus Pass

Rating: ⭐️ 4.4/5 ( 171 reviews )

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to book a bus tour in London?

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

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

• compare bus tours in London

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Best London Sightseeing Bus Tours

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

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

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

UNIQUE BUS TOUR EXPERIENCES

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

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

Harry Potter Bus Tour 

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

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

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

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

Availability:  

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

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

• Purchase tickets or learn more .

Warner Bros. Studio Tour: The Making of Harry Potter 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When: check their calendar for availability

Ticket Prices:

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

Jack the Ripper and Sherlock Holmes Bus Tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Beatles and Rock Tour of London

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

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

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

London Duck Tours

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

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

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

BB’s Bakery Bus Afternoon Tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

LONDON BY NIGHT BUS TOURS

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

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

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

Ghost Bus Tours

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more about this and other offers in our post about London tourist attraction concession passes .

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

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

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

Commentary Type and Language: Live commentary in English.

Evening Beatles Bus Tour

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

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

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

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

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

OFFERS AND DEALS

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

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

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

Tourist Attraction Concession Passes

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

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

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

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

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

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

Big Bus Tours (24-hour ticket)

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

Golden Tours (24-hour ticket)

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

London 2 For 1

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

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

Currently, the following tours are included in this deal:

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

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

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

Promo Sites

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

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

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

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

FREE LONDON BUS TOUR

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click here for the tour .

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

Here is how it works.

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

The Heritage Bus route 15 and 9

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

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

Route 9 Self-Guided Tour

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

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

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

LONDON-HOP-ON-HOP-OFF TOURS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

RELATED POSTS

• Things to Do in London
• Free London Walking Tours

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Hop On Hop Off London - Bus Tours

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

London Sightseeing Bus Tours

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Experience London in Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours

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

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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

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

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

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

Q: Are these tours guided?

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

Q: What is the validity of the tour?

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

Other Hop On Hop Off Destinations

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

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Top Sight Tours Group

Open Top London Bus Tour with Live Guide

Tour start time: daily from 10am to 5pm, start every 1 hour, what we will see & where we will be.

This is an open top bus tour through most iconic landmarks of London with live guide ( on selected departures, subject to availability) . Sit back and relax as our well-ventilated bus reconnects you with the city. The tour lasts between 1.5 hours and 2 hours (subject to traffic on the day).

The bus glides past Central London with most iconic landmarks such as London Tower Bridge, Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus, London Eye, .

The buses will be running at reduced capacity and tickets will be sold in specific time slots to avoid overcrowding.

Know before you go

What’s included :

• Professional live guide on selected departures (s ubject to availability)
• Audio guides available in 11 languages
• Reduced capacity and allocated time slots to avoid over crowding

What’s exlcuded :

• Entrances to any attraction

Please bring with you

• Bottled water

Please note :

• Not hop-on hop-off bus tour
• Buses will be cleaned thoroughly after every tour.

Where we meet

London Eye Tourist Stop, Belvedere Road

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

• A fully ventilated open top bus tour of London
• See London’s most iconic landmarks
• Great history lesson for all ages
• Live English-speaking guide
• Audio guide available 

Notable sights :

• London Tower Bridge
• Houses of Parliament
• Buckingham Palace
• Westminster Abbey
• Trafalgar Square
• Piccadilly Circus
• London Eye 

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London sightseeing bus tours : places to visit in London

London themed tours.

Unique rooftop on wheels

• Catchy playlist
• Drinks available on board

London Kids Tour

Non-stop live guided bus tour

• Live guided in English
• Fun and educational

London by Night

Non-stop evening bus tour

• 3 walking tours
• Adult & kids commentary

London Christmas Lights Tour

• London's iconic lights

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

Must See London

Hop-on hop-off bus tour + cruise

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

London Discovery

Hop-on hop-off bus tour + walking tours

London Discovery + London By Night

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

• 3 daytime bus routes
• 1 night tour

Private Tour

Private Bus Hire London

For more details

• Team building
• Educational tours

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

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

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

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

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

Top 5 London Bus Tours – The Best Ways to Explore London on a Rooftop Bus

A tour bus is an excellent way to see many of London’s top attractions in a single day; perfect if you don’t have a huge amount of time or you aren’t sure where the best attractions are. Tour busses have been running in London for decades and millions have used them to explore the city. There are now a huge number of companies that run tour bus guides in London, so it can be hard to know which one to use. We here at Day Out in London have found 5 London bus tours that we think take in the best London attractions, have the most flexibility and provide the best overall experience.

Top 5 London Bus Tours

London in one day – sightseeing coach tour including st paul’s cathedral, tower of london and changing of the guard – top rated tour..

Only have limited time in London but still want to see all of the must-see sights?  Then the London in One Day Sightseeing Tour Including Tower of London and Changing of the Guard with optional London Eye Upgrade is your tour!  It is quite a long day but it is so worth it, and it is great value for money.  Even if you have a good amount of time in London, the tour is a great way to get an overview of all the sights and decide which ones you want to come back and spend more time at.

What you will see:

Setting off from central London, the comfortable, air conditioned coach will  take you around the heart of historical London while your super friendly, well informed guide introduces themselves and goes through the running order of the day.  On the drive to Buckingham Palace to see the Changing of the Guards , you will take in the iconic Big Ben and Houses of Parliament along with Westminster Abbey and Downing Street.  After arriving at Buckingham Palace you will walk to the gates to watch the Changing of the Guard Ceremony and learn about the century’s old tradition from your guide.

After the ceremony, it is back to the bus and off to Trafalgar Square for a traditional London pub lunch (lunch not included in tour price).  After lunch the tour heads to the City, London’s financial district, and on to St Paul’s Cathedral where you will get fast track entry, past the massive queues and a guided tour.

The last stop is the imposing Tower of London where you can explore the site independently or join one of the complimentary Beefeater Tours to learn about the Tower’s dark history.  At the end of the tour, guests receive a complimentary ticket for a river sightseeing cruise on the Thames that departs from the nearby Tower Pier down to Westminster Pier.  You can also upgrade your tour to include a flexible ticket for the London Eye , to be used any time, which is great value for money.

This is the ultimate London tour, providing guest with a London experience that is unrivaled. You’ll be taken directly to all of London’s biggest attractions and guided around each one. Book online and receive your tickets via email with instructions on where to meet.

Click the buttons below to book or read reviews on the experience.

Bakery Vintage Afternoon Tea Bus Tour for Two – Most Unique Tour

There is nothing more quintessentially London than a vintage red Routemaster Bus and an afternoon tea.  Virgin Experience Days combines the two for a classy afternoon of sightseeing around London whilst enjoying sweet and savoury afternoon tea treats lovingly made by B Bakery.  The vintage 1960’s Routemaster bus has been modified to create a stylish and comfortable dining space with vintage diner type booth seats and tables.

Depending on departure time, you will depart from Trafalgar Square’s Northumberland Avenue or Victoria Coach Station and embark on an hour and a half long tour with delectable afternoon tea whilst taking in London’s most famous sights.  From Trafalgar Square , you will take in the sights of the towering Nelsons Column and the goings on in the square itself.  From there you will travel through the heart of London, past the architectural wonder of The London Eye, iconic Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament , Downing Street and Westminster Abbey .

Continuing along St James’ Park to the spectacular Buckingham Palace, definitely one of the highlights of the sightseeing tour.  The vintage bus heads further west along Hyde Park where you get to see the Marble Arch, the famous Harrods department store, Royal Albert Hall in all its glory and the beautiful pastel coloured houses of Notting Hill .  Continuing the tour as you devour the delectable treats, you will take in the flashing lights and famous scenery of Piccadilly Circus.

This tour is a quirky, different and delicious way to see London’s sights.  The service on board is great and the afternoon tea is fresh and tastes great.  If notified in advance, most dietary requirements can be catered for, the gluten free options are not only varied, they are tasty.

Tip: book the top deck table at the right hand side of the bus to get the absolute best views.

The original Hop-on Hop-off London Bus Tour – Best Value Tour

The Original London Sightseeing Hop-on Hop-off tour is one of the best value sightseeing bus tours in London.  Not only do you get a 24 hour ticket for the open top Hop-on Hop-off double decker tour bus with full audio commentary, you also get a Thames River sightseeing cruise and three great walking tours: the iconic Changing of the Guard, Rock ‘n’ Roll legends and the infamous Jack the Ripper guided tours.

Your ticket gives you ultimate flexibility, with starting points all over central London, three different sightseeing routes and three transport links for you to use at your leisure.  Two of the sightseeing routes have multi lingual audio commentary and one route has an informative, entertaining live guide.  A great way to learn about all of the fascinating history and interesting facts that makes London so unique.

The routes cover all of the iconic sights that London has to offer and the best bit: you are free to leave the bus to take a closer look at the sights that interest you the most, then hop back on any bus you come across to continue your adventure.  Highlights include the iconic Tower Bridge and Tower of London, Shakespeare’s Globe, the London Eye, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Ritz Hotel, Kensington Palace and London’s awesome museums.

Big Bus Tour

The Big Bus 24-hour hop-on, hop-off sightseeing bus tour with London Eye fast track is the ultimate tour for anyone who wants to take in all of London’s famous sights and go on the London Eye.  This tour is great value for money all year round but especially during peak tourist seasons when the queue for the London Eye can be hours long.  Why waste your precious holiday time stuck in a queue when you can get fast tracked and be enjoying the stunning views over London in no time at all.  After all, time is money!

Included in the tour price is a 24 hour ticket for the Hop-on Hop-off double decker tour bus with full audio commentary on two routes and live audio commentary on one route, a Thames River sightseeing cruise, three guided walking tours, and the best part, fast track entry to the unforgettable London Eye.  With fifty stops over three different routes, you can get closer to London’s famous landmarks by hopping off and exploring at your own pace.  The different routes take in all of the iconic sights including Tower Bridge, Tower of London, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Oxford Street, Buckingham Palace, Kensington Palace, Hyde Park, Piccadilly Circus and many more.

https://www.bigbustours.com/en/london/24-hour-london-tour-and-london-eye-fast-track-package/

London Vintage Bus Tour Including River Thames Cruise with Optional Lunch

What could be better than cruising around London and seeing all of the famous sights in a classic London icon, the vintage red Routemaster bus?  The Vintage Bus Tour Including River Thames Cruise with Optional Lunch is a great way to see London.

The half day tours start at the centrally located Victoria Coach Station where you will meet with your fabulous, friendly guide.  As you cruise around, you will get to hear interesting historical information and fun anecdotes about many of the famous sights such as Big Ben, St Paul’s Cathedral, Houses of Parliament and the stunning Westminster Abbey.   You will continue along the Thames River to the Tower of London where you will learn about its tumultuous history as a prison and execution site, its famous Beefeater Guards and the resident Crown Jewels.

At the nearby Tower Pier you will board the River Thames Cruise where you will cruise along the river, rich with history, hearing audio commentary as you go along.  From the river you will get stunning views of the London Eye, Houses of Parliament and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.  After the river cruise it is back to the vintage bus and on to Buckingham palace to watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony.  By now you would have worked up an appetite so why not upgrade your tour to include a traditional fish and chips lunch in a central London pub.  The perfect end to a classic London experience.

All of these London bus tours are great value and worth booking, but my recommendation would be the Bakery Vintage Afternoon Tea Bus Tour for Two just because it’s a truly unique experience.

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Tags: bus tour tours

Daniel Pharaoh

London Writer and Blogger. Featured in the Sunday Telegraph and Sunday Times.

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Avoid These Tourist Traps In London And Visit These Destinations Instead

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

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

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

Read more: 50 Underrated Tourist Destinations Around The World

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

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

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

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

Skip Madame Tussauds And Visit Buckingham Palace

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Skip London Dungeon And Visit The Tower Of London

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

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

Skip The London Bridge Experience And Visit Churchill War Rooms

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

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

Skip The Sherlock Holmes Museum And Visit The Sherlock Holmes Pub

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

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

Skip The SEA Life London Aquarium And Visit The London Zoo

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

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

Skip The Shard And Visit Level 10 At The Tate Modern

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

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

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

Skip The London Eye And Visit Hamstead Heath

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

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

Skip Harrods And Visit Peter Jones And Liberty

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

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

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

Our Ranking Methodology

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

Read the original article on Explore .

• Travel Planning Guide

A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Moscow vs. London for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

• Which is Cheaper, Moscow or London? (Travel Cost Comparison)

Which is Bigger, Moscow or London?

• When to Visit Moscow or London?

Should you visit Moscow or London?

Which is cheaper to visit which is more expensive for vacation.

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Moscow and London. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Where Should I go: Moscow or London?

Moscow is the capital of Russia and is notable for its important role in history. It's a very sprawling city with many museums and fascinating buildings. Ten percent of Russia's population lives in this capital city and it's a financial and political center for the country. The Moskva River weaves its way through the city and you will find most of the city's sights and attractions on the northern side of the river.

The capital of the United Kingdom is a thriving multicultural metropolis. Steeped in iconic landmarks, world-class museums and royal parks, London is energetic, majestic, ambitious and one of the world's greatest cities. London is a cultural and fashion capital, a great place to go out, an amazing place to eat and one of those cities that is constantly changing with new and exciting things sprouting up almost every day. History and tradition greet you at every turn in the UK's capital. London is also a city with an edgy underbelly, delighting in neon pink dive bars, cheeky graffiti and mind-blowing street food. When you need a break from the action, pop into a pub or relax in one of the city's many parks. Blow through the city on a double-decker bus, and take a pinch-me-I'm-in-London walk through the West End. As one of the most visited cities in the world, London is busy, vibrant and very tourist friendly. The only problem with London is that it's very expensive; it can eat away at your budget if you aren't careful. Luckily, there are also tons of free or cheap things to do in London that can fill your time.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom , and The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom .

Which place is cheaper, London or Moscow?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

• Moscow Prices Russia Prices London Prices UK Prices
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day Moscow $ 63 London $ 238

The average daily cost (per person) in Moscow is $63, while the average daily cost in London is $238. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Moscow and London in more detail.

Accommodation

• Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person Moscow $ 40 London $ 154
• Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room Moscow $ 80 London $ 308

Compare Hotels in Moscow and London

Looking for a hotel in Moscow or London? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Moscow

Hotels in London

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.

Local Transportation

• Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. Moscow $ 6.18 London $ 32

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Moscow

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Moscow are as follows:

• Two Metro Passes $ 1.47

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Moscow

Also for Moscow, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

• Private Transfer from Nagari Sungai Asam to Padang Airport (PDG): $135
• Private Transfer from Palembang Airport (PLM) to Kebun Bunga: $93
• Private Transfer from Bukit Baru to Palembang Airport (PLM): $93
• Private Transfer from Kebun Bunga to Palembang Airport (PLM): $93
• Private Transfer from Karya Baru to Palembang Airport (PLM): $93
• Private Transfer from Duku to Palembang Airport (PLM): $93
• Private Transfer from Palembang Airport (PLM) to Duku: $93
• Private Transfer from 8 ILIR to Palembang Airport (PLM): $93
• Private Transfer from Palembang to Palembang Airport (PLM): $93
• Private Transfer from Pekanbaru Airport (PKU) to Sri Meranti: $68
• Private Transfer from Sri Meranti to Pekanbaru Airport (PKU): $65
• Private Transfer from Umban Sari to Pekanbaru Airport (PKU): $51

Typical Local Transportation Prices in London

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in London:

• Taxi Ride $ 18
• Heathrow Express $ 23
• Luggage Storage $ 10
• London Map $ 1.62
• Oyster Card $ 45
• Train to Gatwick Airport (2) $ 27
• Oyster Card $ 34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in London

Also for London, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

• Windsor Castle to/from Central London | Private Transfers: $69
• Windsor Castle - Private Transfer - Pickup & Return: $292
• Warner Bros. Studio Tour London The Making of Harry Potter with return transfers: $126
• Warner Bros. Studio Tour with Bus Transfers: $149
• Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in London APT-HTL (LHR): $141
• Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer in London HTL - APT (LGW,STN): $135
• Transfer to/ from London Heathrow Airport to Central London: $154
• Transfer in Private MPV from London Gatwick Airport (LGW) to Central London: $115
• Transfer from Heathrow Airport to London or London to Heathrow: $121
• Transfer from Heathrow Airport LHR to Central London by Sedan: $92
• Transfer from Central London To Heathrow Airport: $212
• Transfer London to Southampton Cruise Terminal (extra luggage): $89

Is it cheaper to fly into Moscow or London?

Prices for flights to both London and Moscow change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.

• Food Meals for one day Moscow $ 14 London $ 43

Typical Food Prices in Moscow

For Moscow, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:

• Lunch for Two $ 6.00
• Lunch in the Center Market $ 3.27
• Breakfast for 2 $ 11

Typical Food Prices in London

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to London:

• Lunch at Starbucks $ 16
• Afternoon Tea at Fortnum & Mason $ 49
• Morning Tea $ 7.97
• Pastry $ 6.27
• Sushi Dinner for One $ 23

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in London

For London, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

• Borough Market Self-guided food tour: $5.75
• Dinner and Live DJ at A Fancy Restaurant: $16
• Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $34
• Picadilly Circus: Hard Rock Cafe Set Menu Lunch or Dinner: $36
• Hard Rock Cafe Piccadilly Circus with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $38
• Traveling Spoon Nepalese Momos Private Online Cooking Class: $40
• Pizza Making Cookery Class: $53
• No Diet Club - Best food Tour in East London: $68
• NO DIET CLUB - Bike and Food tour in London !: $68
• African & Caribbean Food Tour in Multi-Cultural Brixton: $74
• International Stand Up Comedy Showcase - Show & Dinner (Côte): $84
• Borough Market Flavors of London Food Tour: $85

Entertainment

• Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc. Moscow $ 16 London $ 41

Typical Entertainment Prices in Moscow

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Moscow's activities, tours, and tickets:

• Theater Tickets $ 13
• Kremlin Entry (2) $ 11

Tours and Activities in Moscow

For Moscow, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

• 2 Days Private Tour to See Bull Race and Raflesia Arnoldi Flower: $250

Typical Entertainment Prices in London

For London, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:

• Two Tickets to a Concert $ 104
• London Symphony Orchestra $ 43
• London Pass $ 59
• Comedy Show $ 10

Tours and Activities in London

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for London.

• An Evening in London. Panoramic night Tour by Executive Luxury Vehicle: $229
• Boogie Shoes Silent Disco Walking Tour Camden: $64
• David Bowie "Golden Years" Walking Tour of Brixton & Soho: $32
• London (Camden Town) Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
• London Covent Garden: Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $7.30
• Madame Tussauds London Admission Ticket: $45
• The London Dungeon Admission Ticket: $37
• "Luxury Tour: From London to Leeds Castle & Canterbury": $626
• 1 Hour Unlimited Games and Rides Ticket in Babylon Park: $38
• 10 Cultural Spots in the West End: London Self-Guided Audio Tour: $19
• 2 Hour Belgravia Walking Tour and High Tea: $126
• 2 Hour Jack the Ripper Walking Tour of London in Italian: $19
• Alcohol Drinks for one day Moscow $ 7.94 London $ 19

Sample the Local Flavors in London

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in London:

• Fun London Pub Crawl Treasure Hunt with 20% off ALL drinks!: $13
• Historic Pub Walking Tour of London: $13
• 2-Hour Haunted Pub Walking Tour: $20
• Craft Brewery Tour with Tasting of 4 Beers: $25
• Guided Historic Pub Tour (London): $27
• London Pub Crawl: $27
• Pub Crawl of Central London: $29
• Camden Pub Crawl & Bar Tour London: $31
• Pub Crawl and Nightlife Tour: $31
• Burlesque Cabaret Show in Covent Garden: $31
• 2-Hour Historic Pub Tour: $31
• The Great East London Pub Crawl!: $32

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Moscow and London, we can see that London is more expensive. And not only is Moscow much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Moscow would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Moscow and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in London would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in London than you might in Moscow.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Moscow Expensive? and Is London Expensive? .

Moscow has a larger population, and is about 40% larger than the population of London. When comparing the sizes of Moscow and London, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Moscow or London?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Moscow or London in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Moscow and London. Also, many visitors come to London in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Moscow is generally around the same temperature as London. Daily temperatures in Moscow average around 19°C (67°F), and London fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In July, Moscow usually receives more rain than London. Moscow gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while London receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

• Summer Average Temperatures July Moscow 19°C (67°F)   London   18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Moscow or London in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Moscow as well as London. Also, most visitors come to London for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Moscow is much colder than London in the autumn. The daily temperature in Moscow averages around 6°C (43°F) in October, and London fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Moscow usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as London. Moscow gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while London receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

• Autumn Average Temperatures October Moscow 6°C (43°F)   London   12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Moscow or London in the Winter?

Both London and Moscow are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Also, the winter months attract visitors to London because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

The weather in London can be very cold. Moscow can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Moscow is much colder than London. Typically, the winter temperatures in Moscow in January average around -8°C (17°F), and London averages at about 4°C (40°F).

In January, Moscow usually receives less rain than London. Moscow gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while London receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

• Winter Average Temperatures January Moscow -8°C (17°F)   London   4°C (40°F)

Should I visit Moscow or London in the Spring?

Both London and Moscow during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to London this time of year.

In April, Moscow is generally cooler than London. Daily temperatures in Moscow average around 7°C (45°F), and London fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Moscow usually gets less rain in April than London. Moscow gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while London receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

• Spring Average Temperatures April Moscow 7°C (45°F)   London   9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for London and Moscow

Related articles for moscow, related articles for london.

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

London Tube ticket from the 80s drives home just how much fares have risen

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An old London travel card reveals how much the cost of Tube travel has increased over the years.

London would not be the same without the underground.

Whether you love it or hate it, the Tube has been a fundamental part of life in the capital since it opened more than 160 years ago.

Ticket price increases on the Transport of London network are also a regular occurrence – although fares were frozen again this year.

A Londoner discovered a 1988 London Underground travel card when going through their parents’ old books, sharing the rare find online on Reddit.

It shows how much prices have ballooned since.

Back then, an off-peak travel card across zones 1 to 3 for one day cost £2, MyLondon reports.

Because of inflation, that equals £5.36 today.

Today, hopping on the Tube for one day of travel between zones 1-6 will set you back by £15.90.

The discovery sparked nostalgic memories on Reddit, with one user saying ‘that’s a blast from the past. People selling cards at stations! I remember doing it too.’

Another said: ‘Wow, talk about nostalgia! Back then I was riding the tube in to University every day.’

Latest London news

• Boy, 6, dies after falling more than 150ft from tower block
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To get the latest news from the capital visit Metro.co.uk's London news hub .

Travel cards were introduced on the London Underground and buses in 1983, while day tickets were launched the following year, according to MyLondon .

The graphic below reveals how much Tube prices have increased for one-day travel cards in zones 1 to 4.

Londoners let out a sigh of relief in 2016, when TfL announced a ticket price freeze.

Passenger fares were frozen between 2017 and 2020, preventing a rise of 12%, the BBC reported.

The Mayor of London Sadiq Khan announced another fare freeze in January until March 2025 ahead of the mayoral race .

It comes after the transport authority announced an average rise of 5.9% last year.

The average pay-as-you-go Tube fare went up by 30p, while the fare for a single bus journey increased by 10p, according to the broadcaster.

A spokesperson for the Mayor said Khan pledged to freeze TfL fares until at least 2025 to ‘support Londoners with the cost of living crisis.’

‘This is the fifth time Sadiq has frozen fares as he continues to build a greener and fairer London for everyone,’ they added.

Overall consumer prices in Britain have increased by around 236% since the ticket was issued.

The Tube has been modernised since it opened, including the addition of the Elizabeth Line , a better phone signal and an off-peak Friday price trial announced by City Hall.

Passengers are set to get mobile signal within most of London underground by the end of this year – to the delight of those who rack up hours of travel on the Tube each month.

Stretching 249 miles, the underground network has hundreds of secret passages, historical Grade II-listed stations and even ghost platforms.

If you ever feel you are being watched when catching the Tube, it could be because some of the passages have metal grates with views of unassuming passengers.

Travel influencer Dan Thomas revealed a tour of the historic passages.

It could also be because there are more than 15,500 CCTV cameras in the London Underground.

@danthomasuk Replying to @Dan Thomas | Travel & Music🩵 The Hidden Tunnels in Shepherds Bush Station Others in Baker Street: @Dan Thomas | Travel & Music🩵 TFL transport museum Hidden London tour Secret London Abandoned stations Closed underground stations Closed tube station For fans of Secrets of the London Underground and Siddy Holloway #hiddenlondon #secretlondon #londonunderground #abandonedplaces #abandonedstation #tfl #londontube #shepherdsbush ♬ Lovin On Me – Jack Harlow

A TfL spokesperson told Metro.co.uk if it plans to extend the off-peak Fridays trial: ‘We continue to analyse the impact of our trial of off-peak pay as you go fares on Tube and rail services on a Friday, which remains ongoing until May 31.

‘This analysis will take into account a number of aspects including assessing changes to both morning peak ridership and overall daily ridership, as well as the impact to businesses across London.’

The London Underground

Here is everything you need to know if you ever find yourself in a Tube-themed pub quiz.

The underground was affectionately nicknamed Tube after the shape of its tunnels.

The Tube opened in 1863, and since then the passenger numbers have increased to a whopping 1.35 billion each year.

Today, it boasts 11 lines with 272 stations stretching across the capital and beyond Greater London.

The furthest Underground station from central London is Chesham in Buckinghamshire located in zone 9.

It stretches for 249 miles.

The busiest station is Waterloo with 100.3 million passengers annually, according to TfL.

Waterloo is also the station with most escalators – 23 in total.

While the average train speed across the Tube is around 20 mph, the Metropolitan Line can reach speeds of up to 62 mph.

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at [email protected] .

For more stories like this, check our news page .

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Where are the popular bus stations and stops in London and Moscow?

164 Buckingham Palace Rd, Belgravia, London SW1W 9TP, UK

22 Portman St, Marylebone, London W1H, UK

235 Finchley Rd, London NW3, UK

76-77 A4, Kensington, London SW5, UK

Hammersmith, Stop SC, London W6 9PJ, UK

204 Eltham Rd, London SE9 5LN, UK

Nikitskiy per. 6, Moskva, Russia, 125009

Komsomolskaya pl., 2, Moskva, Russia, 107078

Nikolaevskiy tup., Moskva, Russia, 129272

Moskovskaya alleya, Moskva, Russia, 125167

Shchelkovskoye shosse, 75/2, Moskva, Russia, 107207

Moscow,, Russia

Frequently asked questions on the trip London - Moscow

What are the departure and arrival stations when taking the bus from london to moscow.

Buses travelling between London and Moscow leave from Victoria Coach Station or Marble Arch and arrive at Nikitskiy per. 6, Komsomolskaya pl., 2, Nikolaevskiy tup..

About Bus Travel

Bus travel tips.

Meet and talk to locals at the bus stations while travelling from London to Moscow.There is no better way to get inside travel information while exploring a new city than to go straight to its people.

Much more than a mere vehicle taking you from London to Moscow, riding the bus will expose you to some of the most stunning panoramas while enroute to your final bus stop.

Taking the bus creates the smallest carbon footprint compared to other modes of transport. Not to mention that buses will allow you to discover scenic gems from London to Moscow that are otherwise impossible to come by with a plane.

Tune out to the fine sounds of your best music playlist on your bus trip from London to Moscow while indulging in miles on end of beautiful scenic views.

Did you know?

One of the longest bus route in the world goes all the way from Ontario to Alberta in Canada (with the same bus). This trip is 3,435 km or 2,135 miles long and the price is a bit under $100.

The average number of passengers on a coach bus is 32 meaning that a bus could replace a minimum of at least 30 cars!

It takes 27 hours to go by bus from Lima to Cusco, one of the craziest bus trips on the world. This route is used daily by locals and backpackers.

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