difference between city tour and sightseeing

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Which New York Attraction Pass is Best?

This post reviews and explains the various options for NYC tourist discount passes that are available to you and to help you decide which (if any) are right for you. ( en español ) ( auf Deutsch )

There are so many tourist discount passes available in NYC that it can be difficult to decide which, if any, are good options for you.

Therefore, we recommend first deciding on what you want to do and will have the time for, before choosing which pass you would like. 

In other words, don’t necessarily let any tourist pass decide for you where to go, but certainly, get ideas from what is offered. 

• BEFORE YOU BUY
• ALL-INCLUSIVE
• SET # OF ATTRACTION
• PRESET PACKAGES
• BUS TOUR COMBO PACKAGES  

As local walking tour guides, we know first-hand the confusion that confronts visitors to New York who are looking to save some money on attractions and tours.

And, in addition to our experiences, we also incorporated some of the tips from members of our NYC Travel Tips Facebook group to craft this post.

There are several different passes to choose from, and we have broken them down by type. 

Each pass has its own benefits and is slightly different from the others.

One of the biggest differences is which attractions and tours are included, but all passes (except CityPass) usually include the following: 

• A Hop-on-Hop-off Bus Tour
• Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
• Top of the Rock or Empire State Building or One World Observatory
• 9/11 Memorial & Museum
• American Museum of Natural History
• Museum of Modern Art
• Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
• Madame Tussauds

If these are places you want to visit, then one of the tourist passes below is probably a no-brainer.

And remember, there are many more attractions and tours included in each pass.

Lastly, we have special discount codes for several of these passes giving you anywhere from 10-20% off the full price of these passes, so look out for those below.

An all-inclusive pass allows you to enjoy as many attractions, tours, and experiences as you can within a set number of days for one set price (think of an all-you-can-eat buffet). 

These are the most expensive types, but you could potentially save the most amount of money with these passes.

NOTE:  both passes offer our guests 20% or more on most of their options.

Then there are passes that allow you to choose a set # of attractions and tours .

These passes usually give you the option to choose, 3, 5, or more options from a large pool of options. 

These are a bit cheaper than all-inclusive and allow for flexibility, but your savings potential is lower. 

Another option is prepackaged passes (think set menu).  These are the most certain of all of the passes. 

Lastly, there are numerous hop-on-hop-off bus tour companies that offer their own combo deals . 

Also, check out our section on how to save without a pass for more options and tips.

IMPORTANT:  Because each pass's offerings change regularly, be sure to confirm what is and is not offered before purchasing.

Remember Our Tours

Don’t forget about all of our “name your own price” walking tours of the city!

You can save as much as you like with our tours. For a full list of our tours offered,  check out our calendar .

If you have questions after reading this post, please email us your questions . We try to respond within 24 hours or less.

TIP: When considering the options below, you may find it useful to have a breakdown of where your money will be spent on your trip (hotel, food, transportation, attractions). Take a look at our post, How Much Does It Cost To Visit New York City? to put these discounts into context.

Listen to Lori and Katherine, both tour guides with Free Tours by Foot , discuss these passes on an episode of our NYC Travel Tips podcast.

This podcast offers bite-sized audio clips with tips on how to plan your trip to NYC. You can get our podcasts on Apple , Google , or wherever you get your podcasts.

ALL-INCLUSIVE PASSES

Currently, there are 2 all-inclusive passes available in New York City: the Sightseeing Pass and the  New York Pass .

These passes are like an all-you-can-eat menu.

You pay one flat price for the pass which is sold in increments of  1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 10 days.  

With your pass, you can visit as many attractions as you want in the number of days you select.

So, the more efficiently you are visiting attractions and taking tours, the less you will pay per ticket.

You also get discounts at a variety of shops, restaurants, and other attractions not included in the pass.

These passes come with skip-the-line privileges for many attractions. 

Both of these passes have a long list of attractions, tours, and museums included, though the lists are not identical.

Be sure to always look over the list of attractions carefully before choosing a pass to purchase. 

We've provided the average daily cost of each multiple attraction so that you can see how much of a deal you will get each day.

Both passes have sample itineraries to demonstrate how you could maximize your savings as well.  

THE SIGHTSEEING PASS

The Sightseeing Pass is a credit card-like pass that you can use to visit over 100 attractions, walking tours, cruises, bus tours, and more.

You can choose 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or 10 days.

A big highlight of this pass is that it is the only all-inclusive pass that includes One World Observatory as an attraction.

The New York Sightseeing Pass also includes admission to the Empire State Building , Top of the Rock , and the newest observation deck called Edge .

If you prefer a pass that is based on the number of attractions you can see instead of the number of days, they also offer a pass based on the # of attractions , not days.  

They also offer sample itineraries to help with your planning.

Another perk is that the pass includes a meal (lunch or dinner) and other discounts at popular NYC restaurants and shops.

For more information, click here .  

After you make your purchase, you will receive an email confirmation with a link to your voucher.

You can either print it out or, even more conveniently for those with a smartphone, take a screenshot of the QR code and use your mobile phone as your ticket!

 If you prefer to have your pass mailed to you, they can do this as well.

Prices 

Below are the prices you can get when you apply our exclusive promo code: FTBF . This code reduces the price by 15% or more.

NOTE:  If you are traveling with children, there is a one Child Pass per Adult Pass rule. Additional child passes will cost the full retail price as listed on their website. 

The prices underneath each multiple-day pass listing are the average costs per day. The longer the pass, the lower the daily cost.

• 1-Day Pass: $149/Adults | $119/Children
• Price per Day: $124.50/Adults | $69.50/Children
• Price per Day: $109.67/Adults | $68/Children
• Price per Day: $94.75/Adults | $59.75/Children
• Price per Day: $83.80/Adults | $53.80/Children
• Price per Day: $74.83/Adults | $49.83/Children
• Price per Day: $69.14/Adults | $49.14/Children
• Price per Day: $54.40/Adults | $37.40/Children

Click here for more information or to purchase . Don't forget to enter our exclusive promo code FTBF for these amazing discounted prices.

Just some of the most popular attractions you can choose from

• One World Observatory  -  Fast Track Entry
• Top of The Rock Observatory Deck   -  Fast Track Entry
• Empire State Building - Pre-Reserved Entry
• Edge Sky Deck - NYC's newest observation deck! 
• Madame Tussauds NYC -  Fast Track Entry
• Madison Square Garden Tour
• Radio City Music Hall Stage Tour
• Bronx Zoo and Central Park Zoo
• Gray Line City Sightseeing Double Decker Tour
• Woodbury Commons Outlets Super Saver Ticket (includes FREE Coupon Book - $10 Value!)

Click here  for the complete list of attractions you can choose from.  They also offer sample itineraries to help with your planning.

Special Offers

In addition to offering admission to dozens of popular attractions, the New York Sightseeing Pass also includes discounts at a number of different locations throughout the city.

Here are a few of the more noteworthy deals you can get just by using this pass:

• Bloomingdale's - 59th Street | 15% off coupon
• Broadway Comedy Club | 20% off tickets
• Greenwich Village Comedy Club | 20% off tickets
• LOL Times Square Comedy Club | 10% off food and drink
• Macy's - Herald Square | 15% off sale and clearance items
• Spirit and Bateaux Dinner Cruises | 10% off
• Nannybag Luggage Storage | 20% off
• Bounce Luggage Storage | 10% off
• Drunk Shakespeare | 35% off
• FAO Schwarz | Free Gift Card

They also provide dozens of discounts for stores at Hudson Yards, which is of course right next to the Edge Observation Deck , one of the more popular attractions included with the pass.

THE NEW YORK PASS

The New York Pass can be used at over 100 different New York City attractions and tours and can be purchased either a 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, or 10-day pass.

The Pass comes with a travel booklet in English, Spanish, French, German, Dutch, Italian and Portuguese.

This service is now offered exclusively on the Go City app.

All you have to do is download it on your Smartphone and show your pass at the entrance to the attractions.

Once you complete your purchase, you can use it immediately.

To purchase, click New York Pass .   

Prices  

Important: The prices below are full retail prices. Often discounts are offered on their website, particularly in the off-peak tourist seasons.

The prices underneath each multiple-day pass listing are the average cost per day. The longer the pass, the lower the daily cost.

Use code FTBFNY10 to get 10% off these prices.

• 1 Day Pass is $147 for adults and $106 for children (4-12)
• [$104.50/day/adult and $63.50/day/child]
• [$99.67/day/adult and $44.67/day/child]
• [$83.50/day/adult and $47.75/day/child]
• [$74.80/day/adult and $41.80/day/child]
• [$62/day/adult and $32/day/child]
• [$49.90/day/adult and $26.90/day/child]
• More information or to purchase .

Sample 5 of 80 Attractions + Tours

• Big Bus hop-on-hop-off
• National September 11th Museum
• Circle Line River Cruise
• Statue of Liberty
• Madame Tussauds Wax Museum
• Empire State Building or Top of the Rock  

( TIP: See our post about which view is best: Empire State Building, Top of the Rock, or One World Trade Center Observatory? )

Some Things To Know About New York Pass

• The pass will be activated as soon as you use it at the first attraction
• The number of days that the pass is good for refers to calendar dates, not 24-hour periods.  For example, if you use the 1-day pass for the first attraction at 1 p.m., it still expires at midnight that night.
• It can only be used once at each attraction, so it cannot be shared between two people.
• Line-jumping privileges at 15 of the offered attractions.  For some attractions, such as Top of the Rock, this can save you quite a bit of time.
• The New York Pass includes over 100 attractions .
• Money-back guaranteed insurance is an extra 4.5% of the cost of the pass.

Benefits of the New York Pass

It is nice to have different options for time increments.  

The New York Pass also includes a pretty staggering array of attractions that can be used in any order, including some more off-the-beaten-path options.  

If your trip allows enough time for you to take advantage of the New York Pass it can save you quite a bit of money.

Is the New York Pass Worth the Money?

That depends on how long your trip is and what you are interested in seeing.

We included the average daily prices above, so you really just have to add up the full retail prices of each attraction to see if you get your money's worth.

This pass includes so many attractions and tours, but you need to have the time to do a lot in order to make buying it worthwhile.

New York Pass provides sample itineraries to help plan out your days.

Generally speaking, the 3, 5, and 7-day passes are better deals. That gives you more time to really take advantage of the offerings.

The one and two-day passes are a little pricey considering what you could realistically squeeze into your trip.

Also, for families traveling with children, the savings are significantly better for the 5 and 7-day child passes.

For more details or to purchase this pass, click here .

This pass is a good deal for avid museum-goers with several days in New York.

While the American Museum of Natural History is a suggested donation, private museums like the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) and the Guggenheim have fixed admissions that can really add up.

These museums are included with the New York Pass, as well as a wide variety of others.

If you only have one or two days in New York and think that you can reasonably see enough attractions to make the pass worthwhile, then by all means: go for it!  

Then select one or two attractions to pay admission for, like the Empire State Building. It will keep your cost lower than a 1 Day New York Pass.  

Likewise, GoCity offers you the opportunity to save 20% a la carte style with a free money-back guarantee.

While the New York Pass includes some walking tours, you can maximize your savings by using the pass for attractions (to which there are no pay-what-you-wish options available!) and then take one of our many walking tours (see our calendar for dates/times.)

Differences between the Sightseeing Pass and the New York Pass

• The Sightseeing Pass offers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or 10-day passes. The New York Pass has only 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, or 10-day passes. They do not have a 6-day pass.
• The Sightseeing Pass includes 26 museums whereas the New York Pass includes 30. 
• If you love shopping for discounts, the Sightseeing Pass includes a Super Saver Ticket to  Woodbury Common Outlets  as one of its options. The New York Pass does not.

NEW YORK TURBO PASS

This is another popular all-inclusive tourist pass in New York, and it works almost exactly the same way as all the other options we have listed.

Passes can be purchased for 1, 2, 3, 5, or 7 days at a time.

Although a lot of the activities included are very similar to those offered by their competitors, there are a few differences worth noting.

Perhaps the most notable service that is exclusive to the Turbo Pass is a free airport transfer from LaGuardia, Newark, or JFK.

No other pass includes this, so if you need a transfer from the airport to your hotel, this is an excellent option.

Here are a few of the other notable activities and attractions included with this pass:

• Radio City Music Hall Stage Door Tour
• Metropolitan Museum of Art
• St. Patrick's Cathedral Tour
• RIB New York Speed Boat
• Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour
• One World Observatory
• Central Park Zoo
• Top of the Rock
• NY Aquarium

Here are the prices for each length of pass. We'll include a breakdown of prices per day as well.

• 1-Day Pass: $99/Adults | $89/Children (3-11)
• Price per day: $84.50/Adults | $67/Children
• Price per day: $66.33/Adults | $44.66/Children
• Price per day: $51.80/Adults | $26.80/Children
• Price per day: $42.71/Adults | $19.14/Children

Purchase the New York Turbo Pass or learn more .

Things to Note

As you may have noticed, the prices for children's passes stop increasing after the second day.

As such, this is arguably the most affordable all-inclusive pass in New York for families.

Prices per day are a bit more expensive for adults than you'll find with some of their competitors, but you won't beat the price of less than $20 a day for children!

Another nice thing about this pass is that it includes admission to attractions and services that aren't always provided by their competitors, such as the RIB New York Speed Boat and the free airport transfer.

These are just a few things you might want to consider when trying to decide which pass is right for your needs.

PICK A NUMBER OF ATTRACTIONS (from 2 to 12)

This kind of pass is good for someone who already knows (or has a good idea) what he or she wants to see and the number of days he or she will have in NYC.  

Rather than being based on the number of days, these passes are based on the number of attractions you want to see.

By purchasing a pass rather than a ticket to each attraction individually, you can save up to 50% on the retail cost of each attraction.  

Savings are dependent on the number of attractions you choose.  The more you choose, the more you will save.  

You are not obligated to choose which attractions you will go to in advance or what days you will visit them.

So these passes offer flexibility if you like to improvise. At many attractions, you will get fast-track entry and get to skip the line.

We included the average price per attraction in red so that you could more easily calculate your potential savings over the retail price.  

Be careful - if the retail price of your choices totals less than the average, then you will lose money. 

So be sure to read our breakdown of pricing  to see if it is worth buying a pass or not. 

Currently, there are 3 "pick" passes which we describe in detail below.

After we describe these passes below, we include a section with advice about which of these passes may be best for you.

THE SIGHTSEEING FLEXPASS  

The FlexPass offers the option to purchase 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 10, or 12 attractions chosen from an extensive list of 100+ top NYC attractions, tours, and museums.  

You can save up to 50% by using the FlexPass instead of buying entry to each attraction individually.

You also get fast-track entry to several attractions.

They also offer an all-inclusive pass , as well as  sample itineraries to help with your planning.

Prices   

Below are the prices that you will pay when you use our exclusive promo code: FTBF .

Using this code you get 10% off the retail price of passes for 6, 7, 10, and 12 attractions.

Also, with the promo code, you get 50% off Child passes. Note that there is a maximum of one Child Pass per one Adult Pass.

To get the discounts on these passes, make sure to use our exclusive promo code:  FTBF . 

The prices in red underneath each multiple-attraction pass listing are the average cost per attraction. Generally, the more attractions in the pass, the lower the average cost per attraction.

• Price per Attraction: $39.50/Adults | $34.50/Children
• Price per Attraction: $36.33/Adults | $28.30/Children
• Price per Attraction: $36/Adults | $27.25/Children
• Price per Attraction: $33.80/Adults | $24.80/Children
• Price per Attraction: $31.50/Adults | $23.17/Children
• Price per Attraction: $29.86/Adults | $22.14/Children
• Price per Attraction: $25.90/Adults | $20.00/Children
• Price per Attraction: $24.08/Adults | $18.33/Children

Click here for more information or to purchase .

Don't forget to enter our exclusive promo code FTBF for discounted prices on the 4, 6, 10, and 12-Attraction Flex Passes and 50% off all child passes.

How to Purchase

• This pass can only be purchased online at their website .  
• When you purchase, you will have to choose a date - but you will not be locked into starting your pass on that date. You have a year from the date of purchase to begin using your pass.
• After you make your purchase, you will receive an email confirmation with a link to your voucher.  To redeem the voucher once in New York, bring a printed copy and valid identification at any one of their 11 Visitor Centers. If you can't print the voucher, you can also show the voucher on your mobile device. 
• If you prefer to have your pass mailed to you, they can do this as well.
• Once you’ve redeemed your voucher, you are ready to go!

Good to know

• The pass is valid for 7 days from activation. Your pass is activated the moment it is scanned for admission at your first attraction, bus tour, or restaurant. • Once you use the pass at any attraction choice you must wait one hour before you can visit another attraction. • You'll have a full year from the day you purchase your passes to receive a full refund, as long as they are unused. However, the passes are non-refundable once they're activated.

NOTE: The same additional discounts that are offered on their all-inclusive pass are also available on the Flex pass. Save up to an extra 35% on various attractions, activities, and services around NYC!

For more breakdowns on this pass, read our post, Is the Sightseeing Flex Pass Worth It ? 

GO CITY NEW YORK EXPLORER PASS

This pass, like the New York Pass, is a mobile pass that can be used as a ticket for participating tours and attractions.  

The Go City New York Explorer Pass does not charge per day.

Rather, you select a fixed number of attractions (3, 4, 5, 7, 10) that you want to visit during your time in NYC.

You have over 90 attractions and tours to choose from. 

They provide sample itineraries to help you plan how to get the most out of your pass.

Go City offers a 100% money-back guarantee for unused passes up to 1 year after your intended travel date, no questions asked, and no insurance to purchase.

• [$36/attraction/adult and $28.50/attraction/child]
• [$33/attraction/adult and $26/attraction/child]
• [$33.75/attraction/adult and $24.75/attraction/child]
• [$30.80/attraction/adult and $24/attraction/child]
• [$29.50/attraction/adult and $22.50/attraction/child]
• [$28.28/attraction/adult and $21.57/attraction/child]
• [$23.50/attraction/adult and $19.30/attraction/child]
• More information or to book .

You can choose from a list of 90 options . You do not need to decide in advance what you want to see in order to buy the Go City New York Explorer Pass.  

• The pass will be activated with your first use.
• The Explorer Pass is valid for 30 days, so it is a nice option for those staying awhile.
• You can skip ticket lines at certain attractions with this pass.
• This pass is also well-reviewed.

Is the Explorer Pass Right For You?

Both of the passes offered by Go City are good for 30 days, so if you have a longer stay in NYC and want to see things at a leisurely pace, this could be a good option for you.

Because this pass offers a set number of attractions, it is probably better for those who have a pretty good idea of what they want to see already.

While you don’t run a big risk with this pass of paying for more things than you can see, you do want to be reasonably sure that your selected number of attractions will be enough.

Also, because you pay based on the number of things you do rather than different attractions’ individual prices, like with the Go Select Pass, you should look at the actual prices of the things you are most interested in seeing.  

For example, if you buy a 3 Attraction Pass for $79.99 and then choose to go to the Empire State Building ($38), the Statue of Liberty Ferry ($18), and the Museum of the City of New York ($18), then you are actually paying more for the pass than you would to just purchase individual entry at each place.

So the Go City New York Explorer Pass can be a good deal for the right traveler, but it does require a little advanced research. 

For more breakdowns on this pass, read our post on the Go City New York Explorer Pass .

WHICH “PICK” PASS IS BETTER FOR ME?

All of these passes are pretty similar. Here are a few notable differences:

• The Flex Pass includes One World Observatory as an attraction but the Go City New York Explorer Pass does not.
• The Flex Pass actually includes admission to every major observation deck in New York City, including the Empire State Building, Top of the Rock, and Edge.
• The Flex Pass has a much larger list of attractions to choose from (about 90) whereas the Go City New York Explorer Pass has around half that many.

As with all passes, make sure the attractions you want to see are included in the pass you purchase!

PREPACKAGED PASSES

These types of packages save you money by bundling a certain number of attractions into one purchase with a set price.

However, you have less control over what attractions are included in your package.

Fortunately, these packages do include the attractions that most people want to see and in some cases, you are offered choices. 

CityPASS New York

CityPASS is a digital pass that grants you admission into 5 top attractions in New York City.

CityPASS prices and features:

• $129 for adults and $109 for children (ages 6-17)
• Good for 9 consecutive days (from the first day of use).
• Purchase online or in-person at any attraction included.
• Most of the tickets will also allow you to jump the line at attractions (which can be helpful in crowded New York!)

Attractions included with CityPASS :

• Empire State Building  with an audio guide.  Admission includes two visits, so you can go once during the day and again at night if you’d like.
• The American Museum of Natural History
• 9/11 Memorial & Museum  OR   Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
• Top of the Rock Observation Deck OR the Guggenheim Museum
• Statue of Liberty / Ellis Island Ferry OR a Circle Line Cruise

The projected savings with an adult CityPASS is $87 (if you paid full price for all 5 attractions).

Benefits of the CityPASS

The CityPASS is relatively flexible - you have 9 days to visit the included attractions in whatever order and at whatever times you would like.  

The line bypass privileges can save you quite a bit of time for other sightseeing.  

This pass would grant you entry into many NYC “highlights,” which you could then supplement with our walking tours (see our calendar for dates/times).  

If the price of the pass works for your budget and you have several days in New York it could be a good option for you.

To purchase, click  New York CityPASS .

Things to Consider Before Buying

The American Museum of Natural History actually does not have a fixed admission.  

The prices listed are suggested donations, so you can actually pay anything you like that works in your budget.  

Also, the Museum of Modern Art offers “Free Fridays” from 5:30 p.m. to 9 pm, so if your trip includes a Friday, you could take advantage of that.  

This means that half of the attractions included with CityPASS could be free or very low cost.

For more breakdowns on this pass, read our post on the NYC CityPASS .

Big Apple Pass

The Big Apple Pass pass is a very basic pass but if used wisely can save you time and money.

This pass is best for people who are planning to visit a few attractions and like the convenience of having your pass before you even arrive in New York City. 

Unlike the CityPass booklet, this pass includes airport transfers.

Big Apple Pass prices and features:

• Adult/Teen (17+): $79
• Senior (62+): $77
• Youth (12-16): $68
• Child (6-11): $54
• Child (2-5): $21

Attractions and Deals Included:

• Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
• Empire State Building
• City Tour of New York
• 10% discount on many other of New York's top attractions (click here for the list)

How it works:

Because this pass includes a ride from your airport, you can purchase this pass only after you have booked your flight.

Once you have done that, go to the Big Apple Pass website .

During the purchase process, you will be asked to enter your arrival date, airport, and flight number.

After you complete your purchase, you will receive an email that serves as your pass (you can also use your smartphone as your pass).

You will also get the code to receive a 20% discount on “skip the line” tickets you purchase online.

For a list of which attractions accept this 20% discount code, click here .

Benefits of buying this pass:

First off, if you compare the total regular cost of all the items included in the price of the pass, you will be saving over 30%!

The pass includes two attractions that are likely on your list of “must-sees” -- the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building.

Also, if you take advantage of the 10% discount code for the attractions included, you can save even more.

For example, if you visit two top museums in NYC, the Guggenheim, and the Museum of Modern Art, (each a steep $25 entry) you will save $7.50 per person.

Before buying this pass

Consider that you can’t buy this pass until you have booked your flight as you will need to provide your arrival information.

Also, keep in mind that a pass is not worth the money if it includes attractions you aren't interested in seeing.

BUS TOUR COMBO PACKAGES

Many companies offer discounted rates on bus tours if they are purchased in combination with a boat or helicopter tour.

For more information on all the combo packages available, check out our post on New York bus tours .  

CITY SIGHTS COMBO PACKAGES

If you're not interested in all of the activities typically included with a tourist pass, take a look at some of these combo deals instead.

Whether you want to visit the Empire State Building or see the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, there are several opportunities to cut touring costs in New York City.

As a matter of fact, you could save even more by picking the package that best fits your interest rather than paying upfront for a plethora of different attractions.

Here are the activities and sites included as options with these packages:

• Empire State Building Observatory
• Intrepid, Sea, Air, and Space Museum
• Guggenheim Museum
• Circle Line Cruise
• Fotografiska NY
• St. Patrick's Cathedral
• Central Park Bike Rental

UPDATE: As of September 2022, this combo package is available with either 1 or 3 attractions.

In other words, no matter how long your bus tour ticket is valid, you'll be able to choose up to 3 additional activities to enjoy in addition to the tour. Each hop-on hop-off bus tour is valid for both the uptown to downtown loops.

Here are the new prices:

• Purchase this combo package or learn more .

CREATE YOUR OWN TOURIST PASS

There are a couple of considerations that you should make before you purchase any tourist pass, considerations that may lead you to create your own pass.  

We explain below.

Inflated Prices

Keep in mind that the retail prices for each attraction or tour are usually inflated in order to cover the commissions that these attractions pay to the tourist pass companies.

With that said, you still stand to save money, and having everything you want in one place is also peace of mind.

There are almost always discounts or packages available that lower the retail cost (we explain below).

Calculate Cost Per Hour

You need to calculate the cost per hour of each tour and attraction to make sure that you are getting the best value possible. 

You should make your calculations based on the actual best price and not the retail price (we explain in the examples below).

Be Realistic

Likewise, the suggested amount of time for each attraction and tour is usually the best-case scenario.

You may very well find that you need more time than is indicated and you may experience fewer options than you planned .

You need to calculate travel time between attractions as well as time for lunch and dinner.

When you have highly rated pay-what-you-wish tour options like  Free Tours by Foot , you don't need to consider tours available in passes.   

To show you what we mean, here is a breakdown of the average time you can expect to spend at various popular attractions in New York City:

Example #1 - Top of the Rock  

All passes suggest a duration of 1-2 hours, but you should count on 2, even with skip-the-line privileges, particularly in high tourist season.  

The retail price is $41/adult. Based on this, you appear to be getting $20/hr/adult value.  

However, if you're only interested in the view, you could just visit Bar 65 on the 65th floor (just 2 floors below Top of the Rock) and grab a drink there.

They have a dress code of business casual, but at $20 a drink, it could actually be cheaper than the observation deck.

There are also combo packages available such as the Rock Pass, which also has tickets to the Rockefeller Center Tour. You might also want to consider a bus tour combo from City Sightseeing.

For more details on how to save money on tickets, check our post on Top of the Rock discounts .

Therefore, ignore the stated retail prices and calculate the best prices from discounts.

Example #2 - Statue of Liberty

This attraction is one of the worst choices to pick on a tourist pass.

First of all, it takes at least 4 hours (we suggest 5 hours) to get through security, visit both the Statue and Ellis Island, and return.  

Secondly, the tourist passes only offer access to Liberty Island and not to the Statue's pedestal or crown.

At $23.50/adult, this is under $5/hr/adult. You are better off purchasing tickets on your own.   

And much, much more

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

The Meaning of Sightseeing Tours – A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

• 2024-03-07 2024-03-07

Introduction

Are you curious about what exactly a sightseeing tour is and why it’s so popular among travelers? In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the meaning of sightseeing tours and provide all the information you need to know as a beginner.

What is a Sightseeing Tour?

A sightseeing tour is a guided excursion or trip that allows you to explore and discover the attractions, landmarks, and points of interest in a specific location. These tours are designed to provide an overview and a deeper understanding of the history, culture, and significance of these places.

Types of Sightseeing Tours

Sightseeing tours come in various forms, catering to different interests and preferences. Some common types include:

• City Tours – Explore the highlights and must-see attractions of a city.
• Cultural Tours – Immerse yourself in the local culture, traditions, and customs.
• Nature Tours – Discover natural wonders, such as national parks, mountains, or beaches.
• Historical Tours – Dive into the rich history and heritage of a destination.
• Food Tours – Indulge in local cuisine and taste regional delicacies.
• Specialty Tours – Focus on specific interests like art, architecture, or photography.

Benefits of Joining a Sightseeing Tour

Now that you know what a sightseeing tour entails, let’s explore the benefits of joining one:

• Expert Guidance – Professional tour guides provide valuable insights, historical context, and local knowledge.
• Convenience – The logistics and transportation are taken care of, allowing you to relax and focus on the experience.
• Time Efficiency – Sightseeing tours are well-planned, enabling you to make the most of your time by visiting multiple attractions in a single day.
• Safety and Security – Traveling in a group under the guidance of a tour operator ensures a higher level of safety.
• Interaction and Socializing – You get the chance to meet fellow travelers from around the world, making the experience more enjoyable.

Tips for Choosing the Right Sightseeing Tour

Now that you are aware of the benefits, here are some tips to consider when selecting a sightseeing tour:

• Research the Destinations – Determine the specific attractions or places you want to visit.
• Check Reviews and Ratings – Look for feedback from previous participants to gauge the quality of the tour.
• Consider the Itinerary – Make sure the tour includes the attractions you are most interested in.
• Group Size – Determine if you prefer a small or large group experience.
• Duration and Schedule – Check the length of the tour and ensure it aligns with your available time.
• Budget – Consider the cost of the tour and what is included, such as meals or entrance fees.

How to Make the Most of Your Sightseeing Tour

To fully enjoy and benefit from your sightseeing tour, keep the following tips in mind:

• Stay Engaged – Listen to your guide and ask questions to enhance your understanding.
• Dress Comfortably – Wear appropriate clothing and footwear for the tour.
• Stay Hydrated and Carry Snacks – Depending on the duration, bring water and snacks to keep you energized.
• Take Photos and Capture Memories – Document your experience with photos and videos.
• Immerse Yourself – Be present in the moment and embrace the culture and surroundings.

Sightseeing tours are a fantastic way to explore a destination, learn about its history and culture, and make lasting memories. By understanding the meaning of sightseeing tours and following the tips provided, you can choose the right tour and ensure a rewarding experience. So, start planning your next sightseeing adventure and make the most of your travels!

Table of Contents

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Comments (1)

Alice Carroll

Thanks for the reminder that it’s important to also look for good reviews and ratings when planning to go on sightseeing tours. I want to find a good tour to book soon because there are times when I think I haven’t been spending enough time with my kids. It would be nice to be able to visit a nice place out of town at some point.

https://www.amadeusdc.com/tours

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Best Sightseeing Bus Tours in London Compared

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

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

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

London Bus Tours Deals

GET 10% OFF AT BIG BUS TOURS

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

Sightseeing Bus Tours in London Compared

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

Sightseeing Bus Tours in London: What’s included

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

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

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

Sightseeing Bus Tours in London: Price Comparison

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

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

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

Big Bus Tours

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

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

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

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

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

⇒ See Big Bus London Route Map

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

⇒ See The TOOT Bus London Route Map

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

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

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

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

Golden Tours

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

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

⇒ Golden Tours Route Map

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

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

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

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

City Sightseeing London

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

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

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

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

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

⇒ See City Sightseeing London Route Map

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

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

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

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

Comparison Sightseeing Bus Tours in London: Summary

Are sightseeing bus tours in london worth it.

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

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

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

Other Bus Tours in London

⇒ Afternoon Tea Vintage Bus Tour

⇒ Vintage Bus Ghost Tour

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Country vs City Travel: How To Decide

Both rural and urban areas have much to offer travelers - although in very different ways. The countryside isn't for everyone, just as fast-paced cities allow some to thrive while inducing panic attacks in others. Before deciding whether to choose a city or country break, ask yourself the following questions.

What pace do you want your trip to go at?

Cities tend to move at a faster pace than more rural areas. Consider if you're the type of person who gets anxiety when navigating bustling streets, or when you don't have a lot of accessibility to services. This may also boil down to whether youre looking to see a variety of sights or find inner peace.

Are you looking to pack your days with sightseeing?

As stated above, cities tend to offer myriad things to do. You can spend your morning in a museum, your afternoon taking in 10+ attractions on a hop on, hop off bus, and your night discovering Michelin-star restaurants or enjoying dinner and a show. That's not to say there isn't anything to do in the countryside; however, it will likely be a lot more limited. Depending on what type of trip you're looking to have, this isn't necessarily a bad thing, but it is something to consider.

Do you want to embark on some outdoor adventure?

What rural destinations tend to lack in options they make up for in outdoor experiences. You're more likely to find great hiking, scenic cycling, horseback riding, and camping under the stars away from the concrete jungle. These types of destinations also tend to offer accommodation choices like farm stays and ranches that offer immersion in the outdoor life.

Where do you live now?

For many, travel is all about experiencing something new and different. Because of this, it may be helpful to think about where you live now, and head somewhere that's completely different to gain a new perspective. Stepping out of your comfort zone also offers the opportunity to discover new sides to yourself you were unaware of before, like a talent for archery on a ranch or a love for avant-garde theater in a city.

Do you mind renting a car?

While to some the word road trip brings to mind images of the great open road and endless possibilities, others may look at renting a car as an expensive hassle. For those folks, cities like New York, London, and Sydney with extensive public transportation options are a great choice, as the swipe of a metro card can take you anywhere you want to go. Countryside destinations, on the other hand, often require you to arrange your own transportation.

Can you do both?

If you're reading this article its likely you're having a hard time choosing between these types of destinations. For those who would really like the chance to experience these two personalities of the destination you're visiting, why not split up your time between both? Some great pairings include New York City and The Catskills; Florence and Chianti in Italy; Adelaide and the Barossa Valley in Australia; Vancouver and the Sunshine Coast in Canada.

Are you a fan of slow or fast travel?

Slow travel is the idea of, well, traveling more slowly. It helps prevent travel fatigue, allows travelers to immerse themselves more fully in the destination they're visiting and is a more eco-friendly way to explore the world (less moving around equates to fewer carbon emissions). It's also a mindset, a way to calm your brain and essentially become one with where you are, experiencing the destination more as a local than a harried tourist. On the other hand, traveling in a quicker fashion allows you to see and do more. Typically, this type of travel involves packing days full of tours and sightseeing, leaving with a camera roll stuffed with photos.

In regards to country vs. city travel, often times rural destinations enjoy a more leisurely pace of life, making it a great fit for a slow traveler. On the other hand, the accessibility and endless options within cities make them a good choice for those who want to cover more ground.

How important is it to go off the beaten path?

I'm not saying there aren't interesting under-the-radar cities - there are plenty; however, as airports, trains, metros, and major attractions are in more urban areas, this is where tourists typically go. Rural areas are often reserved for the travelers who don't mind putting in the extra effort to visit less accessible places. If you want to get away from the tourists and have experiences not often talked about in guidebooks, a countryside jaunt may be for you; however, if you're the type of traveler who gets anxiety thinking about being off the grid, a city break might be a better fit.

What type of vacation do you prefer?

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New York Pass vs. Sightseeing Pass NYC

Which NYC Attraction Pass is better?

I remember when I was traveling to New York City for the first time, I was trying to do it all. But it was crucial for me to save money on sightseeing attractions. I was looking into multiple New York attraction passes which were of course overwhelming. I needed to compare the New York Pass vs. Sightseeing Pass NYC and had no idea how to start. What is the best tourist pass for New York?

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Both the Sightseeing Flex Pass and the Sightseeing Day Pass include free admission to the Edge Observation Deck!

Right now, you may be in my shoes and are trying to find the best sightseeing pass for your upcoming trip to New York City. To me, it was important to have the option of seeing as many attractions as possible during my stay in New York.

I was clearly in need of an all-inclusive pass that allows enjoying as many attractions as desired within a set number of days. I’m sure now you are wondering which New York Pass is better, the New York Pass or the Sightseeing Pass NYC? Let me help you to compare two of the most popular New York sightseeing passes, the New York Pass vs. Sightseeing Pass NYC.

No time? Here you can find 👉 my conclusion and my personal recommendation !

Table of Contents

Which is Better, the New York Pass vs. Sightseeing Pass NYC?

To answer this question we have to find out about the pros and cons of each pass, compare prices and of course have a closer look at the New York sightseeing passes attractions list. Without taking away too much just yet, the battle between the New York Pass vs. Sightseeing Pass NYC is a tight one. Both passes have their unique benefits.

Let’s find out what is the best fit for you, the New York Pass or the Sightseeing Pass!

What do have both sightseeing passes in common?

Both the New York Pass and the Sightseeing Pass NYC are so-called all-inclusive sightseeing passes. While purchasing the pass, you decide for a number of day s (up to 10 days is the max) that you want to be able to use it. Both passes help you to save a decent amount of money . The amount of money you save depends on which tours and attractions you choose and in the case of the New York Pass vs. Sightseeing Pass NYC, how many attractions you visit per day.

On top of that, you’ll save time , because of the fast track options that both sightseeing passes come with. When it comes to sightseeing attractions, New York Pass vs. Sightseeing Pass NYC is pretty similar. There may be a few no brainer if you for example really want to have Edge or sightseeing cruises to be included in your sightseeing pass. But let’s focus on the things that New York Pass vs. Sightseeing Pass NYC have in common first.

• Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Ferry
• Top of the Rock Observation Deck
• One World Observatory
• Empire State Building
• Edge Observation Deck at Hudson Yards
• Art museums such as MoMA, Guggenheim, Metropolitan Museum of Art
• 9/11 Memorial & Museum
• Woodbury Common Bus Tour
• Hop-on-Hop-off Bus Tours (Some restrictions apply)

Both sightseeing passes work the same. Both offer a mobile pass or a small card that allows you to visit an unlimited amount of attractions for the number of days you choose. For a length of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7 or 10 days with the New York Pass, or for 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 10 days with The Sightseeing Pass, you will have unlimited access to all of the 100+ attractions that are included.

You aren’t sure yet, which attractions in New York City, you would love to discover? Check out the Top 33 Attractions in NYC first.

Differences between New York Pass vs. Sightseeing Pass NYC

Even though the concept of both the New York Pass and the Sightseeing Pass NYC are fairly similar, there are a few differences in New York Pass vs. Sightseeing Pass NYC that may help you to decide for either one of them pretty easily.

• The Sightseeing Pass includes 18 museums whereas New York Pass includes 31.
• If you compare New York Pass vs. Sightseeing Pass NYC, the New York Pass offers way more skip-the-line access to several attractions. Compared to any sightseeing pass, the New York Pass has the highest number of fast track admissions, meaning you can reduce your wait time significantly.
• With the New York Pass, you’ll get 1 Day Pass for the Hop-on-hop-off Sightseeing tour. The Sightseeing Pass NYC includes a ticket for the entire duration of the Sightseeing Day Pass NYC.

Are Hop-on-Hop-off Bus tours included?

Both passes include a ticket for the Hop-on-Hop-off Bus tours. They slightly vary when it comes to the duration you can use the Hop-on-Hop-off Buses. The New York Pass includes the Hop-on-Hop-off bus tour for only 1 Day . With the Sightseeing Pass NYC, you can enjoy the Hop-on-Hop-off Bus tours for the entire duration of your Sightseeing Pass NYC .

Before making a final decision for one or the other, simply ask yourself how often you think, you will really use the Hop-on-Hop-off Bus tours in New York City. It sure is a great way to get around, but especially during rush hour, traffic can cause major delays in your sightseeing experience.

My personal preference is Big Bus even though both tour operators don’t have the best reviews altogether.

Note : Both passes work with different bus operators. The Sightseeing Pass works with  Gray Line City Sightseeing AND Big Bus  and New York Pass includes Hop-on-Hop-off Bus tours with Big Bus in New York.

Big Bus vs. Gray Line City Sightseeing

My personal preference is Big Bus even though both tour operators don’t have the best reviews altogether!

Is it worth buying a Sightseeing Pass for New York?

Most visitors are going to see 5-8 attractions within 7 days. In case you are planning on going to visit 3 attractions per day, you’ll need the New York Pass for 2, or 3 days which costs you $149 for two days and with a discount of $40 you only pay $159 for three days .

The Sightseeing Pass NYC costs you for two days $159 and for three days $223 (use our code LNYOFFER) So it is a little bit more expensive.

New York Pass vs. Sightseeing Pass NYC – Which one is the best?

After reviewing both sightseeing passes in detail, let’s point out the major pros and cons and hard facts of the New York Pass vs. Sightseeing Pass NYC. Which sightseeing pass is the best? Let’s find out:

Round 1: Number of attractions

With both New York sightseeing passes you have a choice between 100+ attractions and tours. All of the most popular NYC attractions are included. Both New York Pass and Sightseeing Pass NYC are getting one point.

Round 2: Number of Fast Lanes

Compared to other sightseeing passes the New York Pass has the highest number of fast track admissions, which allows you to reduce your wait time significantly. . The fast lanes for the New York Pass are:

• Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
• Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
• Surrey Rental on Governors Island

Clearly, this battle wins the New York Pass.

New York Pass vs. Sightseeing Pass NYC 2:1

Round 3: (Hop-on Hop-off) Bus tours

Both bus suppliers Big Bus and Gray Line City Sightseeing are excellent. With Big Bus you are welcome to join the Uptown, Downtown, Brooklyn & Night Tour. Also, both sightseeing passes include tickets to Woodbury Premium Outlets and the Ride.

A big plus on the Sightseeing Pass NYC side though is the fact, that you are able to use the Hop-on-Hop-off buses during the entire duration of your Sightseeing Pass NYC. The New York Pass only offers 1 day of Hop-on-Hop-off bus tours.

One point goes to the Sightseeing Pass NYC.

New York Pass vs. Sightseeing Pass NYC 2:2

Round 4: Cruises

We are obsessed with cruises and are convinced that exploring New York City by the water is one of the most beautiful things to do in the city. The New York Pass includes a large number of sightseeing cruises. The Sightseeing Pass NYC doesn’t include any of the Circle Line sightseeing cruises which are our favorites and the most popular ones. Instead, you can enjoy a sailing trip, which is fun as well. Those are included in the New York Pass as well.

We think you should definitely hop on a sightseeing cruise and even thought with the New York Pass you can only attend one from all of the ones that are being offered, we are giving the point to the New York Pass for having a wider selection of sightseeing cruises overall.

New York Pass vs. Sightseeing Pass NYC 3:2

Round 5: Do I have to decide on any attractions beforehand?

No, you don’t have to. Both the New York Pass and the Sightseeing Pass NYC come with a lot of flexibility so you can decide which attractions you’re going to visit depending on the weather, schedule or any other preferences.

Both sightseeing passes are receiving one point for being so flexible and easy to handle.

New York Pass vs. Sightseeing Pass NYC 4:3

Round 6: Booking and Pick up

It looks like another tight battle between New York Pass vs. Sightseeing Pass NYC because both offer mobile passes that you can simply save on your smartphone and show to at the ticket box at the attraction. The New York Pass offers also pickups from their New York collection desks. Open 7 days a week. If you’d like you New York Pass delivered to your house, expect delivery fees starting at $30.

The Sightseeing Pass will send you an email confirmation with a link to your Pass(es) which you can print out or add them to your Apple / Android Wallet and use your mobile phone as your ticket. Both passes are as simple as using your flight boarding card – you either print it or show on your mobile phone.

Booking both passes is just as simple as well. You can purchase both the New York Pass and the Sightseeing Pass online before your trip. Since both passes offer a high convenience when it comes to booking and pick up, they both are getting one point.

New York Pass vs. Sightseeing Pass NYC 5:4

Round 7: Price

As explained earlier, the Sightseeing Pass is a little bit more expensive. Both passes are getting a point though because it really depends on how you are using the passes to your own benefit and maximize the savings.

New York Pass vs. Sightseeing Pass NYC 6:5

Result: The battle between New York Pass vs. Sightseeing Pass NYC has a winner which is the New York Pass. But again, this is just an example of how to approach the comparison between the New York Pass vs. Sightseeing Pass NYC. If there are certain attractions that one passes offers, but the other doesn’t you may already have your answers which pass is the best for you.

During my first trip to New York, before I even moved here, I also used the New York Pass to explore the city. We wanted to see as many sights as possible in a set amount of days. Friends of mine who recently visited NYC were huge fans of the Hop-On Hop-Off buses, so they decided to go for the Sightseeing Pass NYC.

Beside pricing of the passes it is also important to prioritize your itinerary and know which attractions you’re going to visit.

My personal recommendation

Both attraction passes have a lot in common. In my experience, there are only two factors that make the difference .

#1 If you want to use the popular hop on hop off bus tours for more than one day, then the Sightseeing Pass NYC is better.

Buy Sightseeing Pass

#2 If you want to take boat tours with the Circle Line provider, then the New York Pass is better.

Buy New York Pass

The NYC Sightseeing Pass includes Edge and the Hop-On Hop-Off buses. The Sightseeing Pass also includes the popular bus tour for the whole duration of the pass.

One final tip: our free advisor will calculate exactly which Attraction Pass will save you the most money on 100+ attractions and tours in NYC.

Try it out here

What Is The Best New York Pass For You In 2024? My Tips After 25 Visits!

New York Sightseeing Pass in 2024

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Notes On Sightseeing vs. Experiencing When Traveling

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Totally agree with this. I love to know the history of what I’m seeing or the place I take a tour around.

@Rachel: It just gives you a whole different perspective. The Rome Colosseum is just an old structure until you know what truly went on there ha.

I love this! To me, truly experiencing is what travelling is all about! The best memories and stories come from when you really jump in, explore and roll with it, rather than just rushing around to tick items off your bucket list to be able to say you have been there.

@Christie: Couldn’t have said it better myself! 🙂

Yeah it’s a tough one – I definitely think a guide could have been helpful at Angkor. Still either way I know we would not have enjoyed multiple days at the temples!

While some of my favourite places are super touristy, some of my favourite travel memories have just been doing simple things with locals (hosts and friends).

@NZ Muse: Agreed. I definitely think there are some touristy things that you just have to do, but there needs to be a balance. I don’t want to go somewhere simply to snap pictures of popular sites. Also, if possible it’s also nice to experience the sites. For example, when visiting the Eiffel Tower instead of just seeing it my friends and I picnicked in front of it, listened to music and had a nice evening of wine, food and conversation while enjoying the light show. It’s a really nice memory for me.

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• Travel Tips

Culture And Travel – Sightseeing Vs Experiencing In A Destination

Published: September 8, 2023

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Ariel Hansen

• Arts & Culture
• Plan Your Trip
• Cultural Exploration
• Cultural Heritage
• Hidden Gems
• Historical Landmarks
• Off The Beaten Path

Introduction

When it comes to traveling, there are two main approaches that people take – sightseeing and experiencing. While sightseeing focuses on exploring popular tourist attractions and landmarks, experiencing delves into immersing oneself in the local culture and traditions of a destination. Both approaches have their merits and drawbacks, but finding a balance between the two can lead to a more enriching travel experience.

While sightseeing often involves visiting iconic landmarks, such as famous monuments, museums, and natural wonders, experiencing allows travelers to connect with their surroundings on a deeper level. This can include participating in local festivals, trying traditional food, engaging in cultural activities, and interacting with locals. By going beyond the surface level, experiencing provides a more authentic and immersive experience.

However, it is important to note that sightseeing and experiencing are not mutually exclusive. In fact, they can complement each other to create a well-rounded travel experience. By combining both approaches, travelers can gain a better understanding of a destination’s history, heritage, and way of life, while also forming memorable connections and experiences.

In this article, we will explore the importance of balancing sightseeing and experiencing in a destination, delve into the pros and cons of each approach, and provide tips for incorporating both into your travel itinerary. We will also examine some case studies of destinations that offer a blend of sightseeing and experiencing, showcasing how this combination can result in a truly unforgettable travel experience. So, whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first trip, read on to discover how to make the most of your next adventure.

Sightseeing: Exploring Popular Tourist Attractions

When it comes to travel, sightseeing is often the first thing that comes to mind. It involves visiting famous tourist attractions and landmarks that a destination is known for. From the Eiffel Tower in Paris to the Great Wall of China, sightseeing allows travelers to witness iconic sites firsthand and tick off items from their bucket list.

One of the significant advantages of sightseeing is the opportunity to appreciate a destination’s architectural wonders, natural beauty, and historical significance. It provides a chance to explore centuries-old palaces, magnificent temples, awe-inspiring landscapes, and renowned museums. These attractions often offer informative guided tours and audio guides, allowing travelers to learn about the history, cultural significance, and fascinating stories behind them.

Sightseeing also offers picture-perfect moments for capturing stunning photographs that will serve as lasting memories of your trip. Whether it’s a selfie in front of the Taj Mahal or a panoramic view from a mountaintop, sightseeing allows you to document your travels and share them with friends and family.

However, there are some drawbacks to sightseeing. The most notable one is the potential for crowds and long queues, especially at popular tourist sites. This can result in a less immersive experience, with limited time to fully appreciate and absorb the surroundings. Additionally, some attractions may have entry fees or require advance booking, adding to the overall cost and logistical planning of your trip.

Despite these drawbacks, sightseeing can still provide a valuable glimpse into a destination’s culture, history, and artistic achievements. It allows travelers to see the world-famous sites that have shaped our collective understanding of different countries and regions, making it a key aspect of many travel itineraries.

Experiencing: Immersing in Local Culture and Traditions

While sightseeing focuses on exploring popular tourist attractions, experiencing goes beyond the surface level and delves into immersing oneself in the local culture and traditions of a destination. It involves engaging with the local community, participating in cultural activities, and embracing the unique customs, cuisine, and way of life.

One of the greatest advantages of experiencing is the opportunity to form meaningful connections with the locals. By interacting with residents, travelers can gain insights into their daily lives, traditions, and values. Whether it’s striking up a conversation with a street vendor, joining a cooking class with a local chef, or staying with a host family, experiencing allows for a deeper understanding and appreciation of a destination’s culture.

Experiencing also opens up possibilities for unique and authentic encounters. It may involve attending traditional festivals and ceremonies, witnessing local rituals, or participating in traditional dances or music performances. These experiences can provide a profound insight into a destination’s identity and heritage, enabling travelers to create lasting memories and forge a deeper connection with the place they are visiting.

Another advantage of experiencing is the chance to explore the local cuisine. Trying traditional dishes and street food not only tantalizes the taste buds but also provides insight into the local ingredients, cooking techniques, and culinary traditions. From savoring paella in Spain to indulging in sushi in Japan, experiencing the local food scene adds a delicious layer to your travel experience.

However, it’s important to acknowledge that experiencing can be more challenging than sightseeing. It requires stepping out of your comfort zone, navigating language barriers, and embracing unfamiliar customs and practices. It may also involve adapting to different cultural norms and traditions, which can be a source of both excitement and potential misunderstandings.

Despite the potential challenges, experiencing offers a unique opportunity for personal growth, cultural exchange, and authentic connections. It allows travelers to go beyond being mere spectators and become active participants in the destination’s cultural fabric.

The Importance of Balancing Sightseeing and Experiencing

While sightseeing and experiencing offer distinct approaches to travel, finding a balance between the two is key to a well-rounded and enriching travel experience. Each approach brings its own benefits and drawbacks, and by incorporating both, travelers can enjoy a more comprehensive understanding of a destination.

One of the main reasons why balancing sightseeing and experiencing is important is that it allows for a deeper connection with a destination. Sightseeing provides the opportunity to appreciate the iconic landmarks and attractions that define a place, while experiencing enables travelers to immerse themselves in the local culture and connect with the local community. By combining both approaches, travelers can gain a comprehensive perspective of a destination’s history, traditions, and way of life.

Moreover, balancing sightseeing and experiencing allows for a more authentic travel experience. While sightseeing offers a glimpse into a destination’s highlights, experiencing allows travelers to go beyond the surface level and engage with the local customs, traditions, and everyday life. This immersion in the local culture can lead to transformative experiences and a deeper appreciation for the destination.

Another benefit of balancing sightseeing and experiencing is the opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery. Sightseeing exposes travelers to new perspectives, architectural wonders, and historical sites, which can broaden their knowledge and understanding. On the other hand, experiencing challenges travelers to step out of their comfort zone and embrace new customs, languages, and traditions, fostering personal growth and cultural empathy.

Additionally, balancing sightseeing and experiencing can optimize the use of time and resources during a trip. While sightseeing can involve meticulous planning and following a structured itinerary, experiencing allows for spontaneous interactions and serendipitous discoveries. By finding a balance between the two, travelers can make the most of their time and create a well-rounded travel experience.

Ultimately, the importance of balancing sightseeing and experiencing lies in the quest for a truly memorable and meaningful travel experience. By combining the exploration of popular tourist attractions with the immersion in local culture, travelers can create lasting memories, forge meaningful connections, and gain a genuine appreciation for the destinations they visit.

Pros and Cons of Sightseeing

Sightseeing, as a popular approach to travel, has its share of pros and cons. Understanding these can help travelers make informed decisions and optimize their sightseeing experiences.

• Opportunity to witness iconic landmarks and famous tourist attractions
• Appreciation of a destination’s architectural wonders, natural beauty, and historical significance
• Ability to capture stunning photographs to cherish as lasting memories
• Informative guided tours and audio guides that provide insight into the history and cultural significance of attractions
• Opportunity to check off items from your bucket list and visit renowned sites
• Potential for crowds and long queues, especially at popular tourist sites
• Possibility of a less immersive experience due to limited time to explore and absorb the surroundings
• Additional costs, such as entry fees or advanced booking requirements
• Risk of the experience feeling rushed or superficial
• Dependency on pre-determined itineraries and potential lack of flexibility

While sightseeing offers the chance to explore iconic landmarks and capture striking photographs, it is essential to be mindful of potential drawbacks. Travelers should consider strategies to mitigate the negative aspects, such as visiting popular sites during off-peak hours or exploring lesser-known attractions to avoid crowds.

Overall, sightseeing can be a valuable aspect of travel, allowing for the appreciation of a destination’s beauty, history, and culture. By understanding and proactively addressing the potential cons, travelers can maximize the benefits of sightseeing while minimizing any potential downsides.

Pros and Cons of Experiencing

Embracing the approach of experiencing local culture and traditions during travel offers unique advantages and considerations. Let’s explore the pros and cons of this immersive travel style.

• Opportunity to form meaningful connections with locals and gain insight into their daily lives, traditions, and values
• Possibility of authentic and transformative experiences that go beyond the surface level of a destination
• Participation in local festivals, ceremonies, and cultural activities, providing a deeper understanding of a destination’s identity and heritage
• Chance to try traditional cuisine and explore the local food scene, experiencing new flavors and culinary traditions
• Potential for personal growth, self-discovery, and cultural empathy through stepping out of your comfort zone
• Challenges related to language barriers and unfamiliar customs and practices
• Adaptation to different cultural norms and traditions, which may require open-mindedness and sensitivity
• Potential for misunderstandings or cultural faux pas due to lack of familiarity with local customs
• Requires research and planning to find authentic experiences amidst the tourist-oriented options
• Potentially less structured itineraries and a need to be flexible and open to spontaneous opportunities

While experiencing allows for a deeper connection with a destination and memorable cultural encounters, it’s essential to approach it with an understanding of the potential challenges. Travelers may consider learning a few basic phrases in the local language, respecting cultural norms, and seeking recommendations from locals to enhance their experiences.

Despite the potential drawbacks, the rewards of experiencing local culture and traditions can be profound. By immersing oneself in the local way of life, travelers can forge meaningful connections, gain a deeper appreciation for a destination’s customs and heritage, and broaden their perspective of the world.

Tips for Incorporating both Sightseeing and Experiencing in a Destination

Finding a balance between sightseeing and experiencing allows for a more comprehensive and enriching travel experience. Here are some practical tips to help you incorporate both approaches into your itinerary:

• Research and Plan Ahead: Before your trip, research the popular tourist attractions as well as local cultural practices, festivals, and hidden gems. Create a list of must-see landmarks and activities, as well as local experiences you want to immerse yourself in.
• Allocate Time Wisely: Dedicate specific days or parts of each day to sightseeing, ensuring you have enough time to visit the iconic landmarks and attractions. Reserve other days or time slots for experiencing local culture, such as attending festivals, exploring neighborhood markets, or joining cultural workshops.
• Seek Local Recommendations: Interact with locals, whether through online forums, social media groups, or by striking conversations during your trip. Ask for their insights and recommendations on off-the-beaten-path attractions, authentic dining spots, and cultural activities that can enhance your experience.
• Join Guided Tours and Workshops: Consider booking guided tours or workshops that offer a mix of sightseeing and hands-on experiences. These can provide valuable insights and facilitate interaction with locals, allowing you to learn about the history and culture while actively participating.
• Balance the Itinerary: Alternate sightseeing days with experiencing days to avoid burnout and create a more balanced schedule. For example, explore a world-famous museum one day and participate in a traditional cooking class the next.
• Explore Local Cuisine: Incorporate local food experiences into your itinerary. Seek out authentic dining options, street food stalls, and traditional markets to savor the local flavors and learn about the culinary traditions of the destination.
• Engage with the Community: Look for opportunities to engage with the local community, such as volunteering, attending local performances, or visiting community centers. This can provide a deeper understanding of the local culture and foster meaningful connections.
• Stay in Local Accommodations: Consider staying in locally-owned accommodations, such as boutique hotels, homestays, or guesthouses. This not only supports the local economy but also provides opportunities for cultural immersion and interacting with the hosts.
• Embrace Spontaneity: Leave room for spontaneous experiences and discoveries. Allow yourself to wander through local neighborhoods, explore hidden alleyways, and engage in impromptu conversations with locals to uncover hidden gems and unexpected encounters.
• Maintain an Open Mind: Embrace the unknown and be open to new experiences, even if they challenge your comfort zone. Respect local customs, traditions, and beliefs, and approach every interaction with curiosity and an eagerness to learn.

Remember, the key to incorporating both sightseeing and experiencing is striking a balance that suits your interests and preferences. By combining these tips with your own personal preferences, you can create a unique travel experience that encompasses the best of both worlds.

Case Studies: Destinations that Offer a Blend of Sightseeing and Experiencing

There are several destinations around the world that are known for offering a perfect blend of sightseeing and experiencing, providing travelers with a well-rounded and immersive travel experience. Let’s explore some case studies:

1. Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto, with its rich history and cultural heritage, offers a perfect blend of sightseeing and experiencing. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, while also immersing themselves in Japanese traditions. Participating in a tea ceremony, strolling through traditional neighborhoods like Gion, and trying local delicacies like kaiseki cuisine and matcha tea provide a deep cultural connection.

2. Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town offers a mix of stunning natural landscapes and vibrant cultural experiences. Travelers can visit Table Mountain and Robben Island for breathtaking views and historical significance, while also exploring the diverse neighborhoods like Bo-Kaap and Woodstock. Experiencing local markets, trying traditional Cape Malay cuisine, and embarking on a township tour fosters a deeper understanding of the city’s multicultural tapestry.

3. Hoi An, Vietnam

Hoi An is known for its well-preserved ancient town, offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich architectural and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town, with its charming streets and historic buildings, while also participating in local experiences. Taking a cooking class to learn traditional Vietnamese dishes, getting tailor-made clothing, and floating down the Thu Bon River during the enchanting lantern festival are experiences that make Hoi An a unique destination.

4. Paris, France

Paris is a city that seamlessly combines iconic sightseeing with immersive experiences. From visiting the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum to strolling along the Seine River, travelers can indulge in the city’s well-known attractions. At the same time, exploring Montmartre’s artistic charm, savoring delicious pastries at local bakeries, and picnicking in the parks provide cultural experiences that give a true taste of Parisian life.

5. Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul offers a blend of historical marvels and vibrant cultural experiences. Sightseeing highlights like the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque reveal the city’s rich Byzantine and Ottoman heritage. Delving into the local culture, travelers can navigate the bustling spice markets, indulge in traditional Turkish cuisine, and experience authentic Turkish baths. The blend of history and culture creates an immersive experience in this fascinating city.

These case studies demonstrate that destinations can offer a harmonious mix of sightseeing and experiencing, providing travelers with memorable and well-rounded travel experiences. From iconic landmarks and historical sites to engaging in local customs and traditions, these destinations showcase the beauty of finding a balance between the two approaches.

Throughout this article, we have explored the significance of finding a balance between sightseeing and experiencing when traveling. While sightseeing allows travelers to appreciate iconic landmarks and famous tourist attractions, experiencing offers a deeper immersion in the local culture and traditions of a destination. By incorporating both approaches into our travel itineraries, we can create more enriching and authentic experiences.

From the pros and cons of sightseeing and experiencing to practical tips for blending the two, we have seen how striking this balance can lead to a more comprehensive understanding of a destination. Sightseeing allows us to appreciate a destination’s architectural wonders, natural beauty, and historical significance, while experiencing allows us to engage with locals, participate in cultural activities, and try traditional cuisine.

We also explored case studies of destinations that offer a perfect blend of sightseeing and experiencing, such as Kyoto, Cape Town, Hoi An, Paris, and Istanbul. These destinations exemplify how the combination of exploring iconic landmarks and immersing oneself in local culture can create truly memorable and transformative travel experiences.

In conclusion, when planning our next trip, let us strive to strike a balance between sightseeing and experiencing. By appreciating the famous sights while also engaging with the local culture, we can create a more authentic and meaningful travel experience. Remember to research, allocate time wisely, seek recommendations, embrace spontaneity, and maintain an open mind. By incorporating both sightseeing and experiencing, we can embark on a journey that broadens our horizons, fosters cultural understanding, and creates everlasting memories.

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Sightseeing vs. Tourism — What's the Difference?

Difference Between Sightseeing and Tourism

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What Is the Difference Between Tours, Activities and Attractions?

Tours, activities and attractions are often bundled together under one ‘umbrella’ term, but as one of the fastest-growing sectors in the travel industry, many don’t realise they are not the same thing. 

As  47% of travellers in 2021  move towards booking their tickets online and operators attempt to stand out, we wanted to share what the difference is in these travel products, and how operators differ in these vectors. 

Tour operators provide a journey or route to showcase a destination and educate travellers along the way. This could be a general tourist hotspot location or a hyper-specific themed tour on a single street. Tours are an excellent opportunity for operators to add value for travellers by collaborating with local businesses. 

The perfect example would be to incorporate some street food vendors, local restaurants, or cafés into the tour. This strategic partnership can have high returns and provides additional value to the traveller. 

Typical examples of tours include: 

Sightseeing tours:  This usually involves visiting the most famous cultural sites the destination is known for. Tour operators can make this more unique by having “lesser-known” stops in the tour, creating personalised or themed tours, or including meet and greets as part of the trip.

Walking tours:  While a walking tour can be incorporated into any theme or location, some walking tours are nature-based and show off the beautiful countryside, oceans or beaches, lesser-known walks, or natural landmarks. 

Celebrity tours:  Made famous in America, these tours include the local hangouts of popular, notable, or famous people.

Private tours:  For luxury offerings, these products provide exclusive access to landmarks, locations, or secret and lesser-known locations can mean increased prices for products. 

Activities 

Activities are most commonly known as adventure activities that you take part in. For example, where a sightseeing tour might be sitting on a bus listening to a guide, an activity would be a walking or cycling tour that you take part in yourself. Of course, the line can often blur between the two when you have a wine or food tour which is both a tour and an activity. 

Typical examples of activities include: 

Extreme activities : These are ‘once in a lifetime’ excursions that travellers are not likely to do normally like bungee jumping, wing walking, abseiling, or high zip lining. For tour operators, this is an excellent opportunity to make the activity even more memorable by organising photography and packages for travellers to perform these activities together or in groups. 

Group activities:  Activities like group bikes, zorbing, or yoga can make tour operators stand out, particularly if they are able to deliver unique experiences to a wide range of customers.  

Water sports:  As the name suggests, anything involving water, from jet skiing to canoeing, water sports can be a popular activity for travellers, especially in warm destinations. This category can also be bundled with local business nearby such as a stop at the local café.

Attractions 

If tours show travellers many different locations at once, an attraction is the individual location that a traveller can visit and interact with. For example, the Grand Canyon or the Great Barrier Reef are considered an attraction, but so can the local carnival. An attraction is designed to grab travellers’ attention and make them want to visit or stay in a certain destination. Attractions are likely to last all day or a number of hours. 

Typical examples of attractions include: 

World Heritage Sites and famous landmarks : According to  data  from Trip Advisor, historical and heritage tours remain a high growth area for the industry. Locations like Sydney Opera House or Machu Picchu are an attraction because travellers are specifically there to see these popular locations. Travel operators can leverage popular landmark activities by offering a unique experience or activity, for example meeting a famous opera singer or a guided walking tour. 

Food and drink:  Popular or famous restaurants, wineries, or specific eateries with a view are the types of attractions that garner attention like the Mirazur in Menton, France which has been considered one of the world’s best restaurants, or the Sierra Mar Restaurant in Big Sur, US with its incredible view. For tour operators creating an experience that involves one-to-one lessons with a chef, a private dining experience, or a set menu offer can make these attraction products more attractive. 

Theme parks:  But this doesn’t just apply to parks with a global fanbase like Sea World or Warner Bros. Movie world, this also applies to local theme parks. Designed for thrill seekers and families alike, a theme park operator has plenty opportunities to be leverage, including ‘fast passes’ and early access options to jump the queue, ‘food passes’, and deals with on-site merchandise vendors.   

Concert and Theatre:  Attractions are not limited to physical participation, but emotional enjoyment too, which is why concerts and theatres are highly popular, particularly with tourists. For operators, backstage passes, the best seats in the house, or signed merchandise and free concessions can elevate these types of offerings.

Travel Experience

Tours, activities and attractions are products in their own right but can be intertwined by both travellers and operators. Ultimately, tourists are after immersing themselves into the destination and sharing it with their networking. Data shows that  97% of millennials  will share travel experiences on social media. Regardless of the product provided, operators should always try to create a memorable, unique, and competitive offering to appeal to travellers the most. After all, recurrent clients, positive reviews and the world of month are powerful tools for business longevity, profitability and value. 

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Dubai Hop On Hop Off Bus (Tours) – City Sightseeing Vs Big Bus Dubai

Things to do in Dubai Dubai Tours Hop On Hop Off Dubai Dubai Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours

Hop On Hop Off (HOHO) tours are the best and most convenient way to explore a city , making it one of the first options any tourist prefers to take. The tours offer you the flexibility and independence of creating your own itinerary, along with the added advantage of a knowledgeable guide. Once aboard the open top double-decker sightseeing bus, you are free to take unlimited trips within the selected time frame. The multiple routes and stops offered helps you plan and pick the best available attractions. You can spend a whole day checking out the best of what Dubai has to offer, or even avail the multiple-day tours and take your time to explore the Jewel of the Middle East.

Types of Hop-on-Hop-off Bus Tours in Dubai

When it comes to Dubai Hop On Hop Off tours, there are two main companies that have hop on hop off offerings - Big Bus and City Sightseeing. Big Bus was born out of a merger of Big Bus Company Ltd. and Les Cars Rouges, each with 2 decades of experience in the tourism industry. By unveiling a city's landmarks along with its culture, the company provide an experience unlike any other. City Sightseeing was created in 1999, when a need for a global tour brand, with reliable service across multiple destinations, was recognized. Today, City Sightseeing is present in six continents, spanning nearly a 100 cities.

Both operate open air-top double decker buses, and offer audio guides in over ten languages. Both companies also provide extra incentives as mentioned below, including entry into certain attractions.

There are three major types of Hop On Hop Off tours:

• The Multiple Day tours allow you to pick from tour variations of 1/3/7 days, giving you the flexibility to explore Dubai at your own pace.
• Then, there are the Night Tours . These are not Hop on Hop Off tours, per se. You do get to travel in the double decker bus, but it's a bus tour that takes you around Dubai. You can watch the city come alive at night and take in the incredible, glittering landmarks, as you sit atop the open-decker bus and listen to your tour guide.
• The last kind is exclusive to Dubai, as it is the Dubai to Abu Dhabi tour . This HOHO tour allows you to explore both Emirati cities, covering all major tourist spots in both cities.

Hop on Hop Off Dubai - Routes

While Big Bus offers three routes that help you cover the entire city, City Sightseeing has 8 routes, each of which shows you a different side of the city. For those looking to see the best of Dubai, the Big Bus City Tour Red and Blue, and the City Sightseeing’s Historic and Marina tours are the best.

Big Bus Routes

Click here to view the detailed Big Bus Hop-on-hop-off bus route map.

City Tour - Red Route

The City Tour Red Route takes you to 11 popular attractions in the city: Dubai Mall (through which you can visit the Burj Khalifa), City Walk, Wafi, Burjuman, Old Souk, Heritage Village, Spice Souk, Dubai Museum, Gold Souk, Riviera, and Deira City Centre.

Circuit time: Approximately 2 hours

Marina Tour - Blue Route

The Marina Tour Blue Route takes you to 10 popular attractions within the city and the Palm Islands: Mall of the Emirates, Marina Walk, Marina Mall, Marina Promenade, The Beach, Bay Side, Tallest Block, Media City, Al Ittihad Park, and Atlantis The Palm.

Circuit time: Approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes

Beach Tour - Green Route

The Beach Tour Green Route takes you to five unmissable spots in the city: The Jumeirah Public Beach, Souk Madinat, Burj Al Arab, Mall of the Emirates, and the Dubai Mall. The scenic drive is not to be missed!

Circuit time: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes

City Sightseeing Routes

The Historic Route

The Historic Route takes you to 14 popular attractions, including Dubai Mall, Burjuman, Dubai Museum, Old Souk, Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel, and Sheikh Zayed Road.

Circuit time: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes

Palm Crescent

The Palm Crescent Route takes you to five popular spots across the Palm Islands: Atlantis, Sofitel, Anantara, and Rixos The Palm, and Jumeirah Zabeel Saray

Circuit time: Approximately 1 hour

Modern Route

The Modern Route takes you to seven unmissable attractions across the city: Dubai Mall, Etihad Museum, Jumeirah Mosque, Mercato, Open Beach Umm Suqeim, Souk Madinat, and Mall of the Emirates.

Marina Route

The Marina Route takes you to 10 popular attractions, including Mall of the Emirates, Souk Madinat, Atlantis the Palm, Palms View West, Dubai Marina Mall, Marina Promenade, The Beach @ JBR, and Dubai Media City.

Cruise Terminal Route

This is one of the shortest routes with just three stops: Dubai Mall, Cruise Terminal 2, and Cruise Terminal 3.

Circuit time: Approximately 25 minutes

City of Lights - Sunset

This night tour starts at the Dubai Mall, and then takes you to Deira City Centre, Burjuman, and Dubai Festival City Mall.

City of Lights - Midnight

This night tour starts at the Dubai Mall, and then takes you to Atlantis The Palm, Fairmont The Palm, Mall of the Emirates, Mina Seyahi, and Souk Madinat.

Global Village & Miracle Garden Route

Available only from November to April, this tour takes you to the Dubai Mall, Global Village, and the Miracle Garden.

Hop on Hop Off Dubai - Frequency

With both Big Bus and City Sightseeing, your wait for the next bus will be less than half an hour.

Big Bus Routes : The Red and Blue Routes have a frequency of 20 minutes, while the Green Route has a frequency of 15 minutes.

City Sightseeing Routes : Unless specified differently, City Sightseeing tours’ frequency is 25 minutes.

Advantages of Choosing a Hop-on-Hop-off Bus Tour

1. Hop on and off whenever you want One of the most obvious advantages if that you can hop on the bus and hop off whenever you want. This makes it extremely comfortable to plan your trip because of the flexibility you have. If you like a particular attraction, you can stay as long as you want, and if you don’t, you can hop back on and move on to the next one. This allows you to see the city in a short span of time, without missing any of the attractions. Whether you are pressed for time or have a good amount of time on your hands, HOHO tours give you the chance to see the best of a city at your own pace.

2. Free Transport What could possibly be better than being able to go to every attraction you want to visit in a city without having to repeatedly pay for the public transport systems or a taxi? HOHO tours make your travel extremely comfortable. With buses running frequently between attractions, you can choose the routes you want to take, and visit attractions at your own pace, without having to worry about how you’re going to get there.

3. Engaging Commentary and learning Every HOHO tour is supported by a friendly and knowledgeable tour guide. The tour guide takes you back in time with a detailed history of the city you are exploring, along with commentary on how the city has evolved. You will find that you can approach the guide about any questions you have about the city and how it has grown over time. The guides also know the attractions which are completely unmissable, and will advise you on the same. And all HOHO tours provide audio commentary in different languages, so you will not miss out on any of the fun!

4. Free Extras Most HOHO tours provide you with a lot of freebies! Depending on the tour you choose, you can explore neighbouring cities of Abu Dhabi and Sharjah as well. Or, you can see a completely different side of the city by taking a cruise aboard the traditional Dhow . Some tours offer you free walking tours of the city, or free entry into museums . You can also get a taste of the Bedouin culture, as some HOHO tours give you the chance to go dune bashing , followed by dinner at a traditional Bedouin camp.

Hop On Hop Off Bus (Tour) Tips

• Review the time table and routes offered for you to adjust and get the most of the tour.
• If travelling between October-March, take something to wrap around yourself because it gets slightly chilly in the evening.
• Complimentary water is available on almost all tours. Check with your guide regarding the same.
• Check the timings of the attractions you want to visit, in order to ensure you do not reach the attraction after it has shut down.

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Sachin Kumar

Having lived and worked in Bangalore and Singapore before moving to Dubai, Sachin is one of the many expatriates who've come together over the years to knit the fabric of Dubai’s global culture. An avid urban explorer and photographer, he has spent countless hours uncovering hidden gems in these cities - eating in ramshackled establishments that only the cab drivers frequent, discovering underground markets, exploring abandoned buildings and staying with families that may or may not like him.

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Site Seeing or Sightseeing – Which is Correct?

Home » Site Seeing or Sightseeing – Which is Correct?

When you go on a vacation and you visit tourist attractions, are you site seeing or sightseeing ?

The confusion between these two words is an extension of the confusion between site and sight . If you know the difference between site and sight, you will know whether site seeing or sightseeing is correct?

If not, no worries! Let’s go over these two words.

What is the Difference Between Site Seeing and Sightseeing?

In this article, I will compare site seeing vs. sightseeing . I will outline the correct term and use it in several example sentence so that you can see it in context.

Plus, at the end, I will show you a mnemonic device that can help you choose either sightseeing or site seeing as the best choice for your own writing.

When to Use Sightseeing

For example,

• Cassidy visited Jamaica, but since she had been there before, she did not do much sightseeing and spent time with her friends in Kingston instead.
• Portland is full of tourists who are hellbent on sightseeing, which clogs up the freeways at rush hour and makes city natives cranky.
• The police said a red Gray Line sightseeing bus sideswiped a blue CitySights NY bus and another vehicle on Seventh Avenue, a one-way southbound route, then jumped a curb onto the sidewalk at Duffy Square. – The New York Times

Sightseeing is a compound word, which means it is made up of multiple smaller words added together. The first part of this compound word, sight , refers to places of interest to tourists and visitors in a city . Seeing means visiting or literally looking at in this context.

As a compound word, sightseeing should always be spelled as a single word when referring to the activity of visiting tourist attractions. The two-word alternative sight seeing is considered a typo in this context.

When to Use Site Seeing

While a sight is a place of interest to a tourist, a site is a place where something is being built, e.g. a construction site . Most people don’t tour various construction sites on vacation.

The chart below shows the relative usage of sightseeing vs. sight seeing vs. site seeing in English books written since 1800,

The data is not exhaustive in its scope, since it only deals with books, but you can still clearly see that sightseeing is preferred by the vast majority of writers.

Trick to Remember the Difference

If you are writing about visiting tourist attractions or other worthy locations, you should always choose the compound word sightseeing over separate words like sight seeing or site seeing .

Sightseeing is the standard term and has been for some time.

To help you remember that sightseeing is correct, remember that it is a single word, like tourist . Tourists go sightseeing, and since they are both one word, it should be easy to remember that sightseeing is the standard version.

You can also remember that tourists don’t—generally speaking—seek out construction sites to tour on vacation.

It is sightseeing or site seeing? Sightseeing is a noun that refers to the activity of visiting tourist attractions.

• Sightseeing is the correct spelling.
• Sight seeing and site seeing are both misspellings.

To conclude, use sightseeing , not any other version of this term.

Study ranks Chicago as most walkable city in America for tourists

By nbc chicago staff • published april 20, 2024 • updated on april 20, 2024 at 1:52 pm.

With summer on the way and tourism ramping up in Chicago, a recent study shows that there is plenty of reason behind the appeal of traveling to the Windy City.

The study, conducted by Preply , analyzed major U.S. cities and measured how easy it was to navigate each city's most recognizable tourist landmarks on foot.

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Compared to European cities that are known for being walkable, the expansive and car-dependent nature of many American cities makes it much more difficult to see what a city has to offer without a vehicle.

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The study found that Chicago is the most walkable city for tourists in the U.S. by this metric, with it taking just 28 minutes to explore the city's most famous landmarks, including "The Bean" or "Cloud Gate" and the Magnificent Mile.

The brisk pace in Chicago is miles ahead of Orlando, which the study ranked as the least walkable city for American tourists.

According to Preply, it takes over 11 hours and 65,100 steps to cover Orlando's major landmarks on foot.

The only other cities where major landmarks can be seen within an hour on foot were Nashville and Dallas, taking 33 minutes and 41 minutes, respectively.

Rounding out the top five were Santa Fe and New Orleans, each requiring between 6,000 and 7,000 steps and less than an hour and 15 minutes to see the major attractions.

In addition to The Bean and the Magnificent Mile, Preply included Millennium Park itself, The Art Institute of Chicago and the Chicago Architecture Center as the spots that could be seen within 28 minutes of walking.

Outside of Chicago, Milwaukee was the lone U.S. city to crack the top 15, coming in at 15th at 2 hours and 35 minutes of walking and 14,280 steps.

You can see how other major American cities ranked along with more information about the study here.

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