Best London Bus Tours
Exploring London by hop on hop off bus is one of the most flexible and enjoyable ways to see the city’s world-famous landmarks. From Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament to the Tower of London and St Paul’s Cathedral, these open-top buses let you experience London’s mix of royal heritage, modern architecture, and river views at your own pace, with unlimited stops and audio commentary throughout the journey.
How the Hop On Hop Off Bus Works in London
London’s hop on hop off bus network covers over 40 key stops across the city, running from early morning until early evening. Buses typically arrive every 10 to 20 minutes, so you can easily plan your day without rushing. The main routes link the West End, Westminster, the City of London, and South Bank, with optional extensions to Greenwich or Notting Hill depending on the operator. Most companies, including Big Bus, Tootbus, and City Sightseeing, offer live or recorded commentary in multiple languages, explaining the history and stories behind the landmarks you pass. The buses are open-top on the upper deck, providing sweeping views of London’s skyline as you cross the Thames or glide down Regent Street.
Top Stops and Attractions
- Trafalgar Square – The heart of London’s cultural quarter, surrounded by the National Gallery and Nelson’s Column, with easy access to Covent Garden.
- Westminster Abbey – Step off here to explore the Abbey, Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament, icons of British heritage and politics.
- London Eye – A short stroll from the bus stop, the Eye offers a panoramic view of the River Thames and the city skyline.
- Tower of London – Discover centuries of history, from the Crown Jewels to tales of royal intrigue, before walking along Tower Bridge.
- Buckingham Palace – Witness the Changing of the Guard and enjoy a walk through the nearby St James’s Park.
Why It’s Worth Taking
What makes the hop on hop off experience in London truly special is the way it connects the city’s layers of history and character in a single journey. You can move from the grandeur of Westminster to the modern energy of the South Bank and the financial might of the City in less than an hour, all while taking in views that would be difficult to enjoy by Underground. The routes follow scenic roads that cross several of London’s most photogenic bridges and weave through neighbourhoods like Knightsbridge and Kensington, giving you a sense of both the old and new London. Whether it is your first visit or a return trip, the open-top vantage point gives a perspective you cannot get on foot or by tube.
Planning Tips
- Start early in the morning to make the most of your ticket and avoid the busiest times around Westminster and the Tower of London.
- Opt for a 48-hour ticket if you plan to explore museums or attractions that take more time, such as the British Museum or Natural History Museum, without feeling rushed.
- Bring a light jacket or umbrella, as London’s weather can change quickly even in summer. Upper-deck seats offer the best photos but can get breezy.
- Combine your hop on hop off ticket with a Thames river cruise if available, as many operators include this for a complete view of the city from land and water.
Tickets and Access
Tickets are usually valid for 24 or 48 hours from the time you first board and can be bought online, through mobile apps, or directly from street kiosks near major landmarks like Piccadilly Circus or Victoria Station. Boarding points are well-marked, and most buses accept both paper and mobile tickets. Commentary is available in several languages, including English, French, Spanish, Italian, and German, often via complimentary earphones. Many vehicles are wheelchair accessible, with designated spaces and ramps, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the ride comfortably. Some operators also provide night tours, offering a beautifully lit view of London’s skyline and monuments after dark.
The hop on hop off bus in London offers a relaxed way to explore major landmarks at your own pace, combining comfort, flexibility, and scenic views — ideal for first-time visitors who want to make the most of their time in London.
This multicultural city bursting with so much history in every corner is the capital of the United Kingdom. A vibrant cosmopolitan that attracts millions of tourists every year. Explore the Buckingham Palace, Tower of London, Westminster, London Eye, the River Thames and a lot more.
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1. Original London Bus Tour
Duration:
Flexible
- Make most of your time with an unlimited hop-on-hop-off bus tour pass with 24-, 48- or 72-hours validity.
- Discover the capital on foot with 3 walking tours.
- There are 7 routes and a total of more than 100 stops.
- Enjoy a free cruise along the River Thames.
- Explore the Buckingham Palace,
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2. Golden Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour
Duration:
Flexible
- Discover London’s famous sights aboard a hop-on-hop-off bus tour valid for 24 hours.
- Disembark any time you want and get back on the bus again at any of the 70 different stops.
- Choose from 3 routes and 1 feeder route covering most of the City’s landmarks like the Buckingham Palace, London Eye,
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3. London Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour
Duration:
Flexible
- Feast your eyes to London’s sights in a 360-degree view perspective, aboard the open bus tour.
- Disembark any time you want and get back on the bus again at any of the 40 different stops.
- See London’s top attractions like the Buckingham Palace, Tower of London, Westminster, London Eye, and the River
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4. London Ghost Bus Tour
Duration:
Flexible
- Uncover London’s spooky past on this 75-minute ghost sightseeing bus tour.
- View London’s famous landmarks aboard the historic Necrobus like the Buckingham Palace, Tower of London, and Westminster.
- Enjoy a thrilling sightseeing show recounted by your creepy guide.
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5. Vintage Bus Tour with London Eye + Cruise + Bus Tour
Duration:
Flexible
- Tour around London on board an open bus tour.
- Travel back in time and see some of the historic attractions such as the Tower of London, Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. What the Bus Tour Includes:
- Admission to the London Eye to enjoy a panoramic view of the city.
- Stopover
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6. Full Day London Pick & Mix Customized Tour
Duration:
8 hours
- This is the London tour program that you desire. Your choices with no hassle and no time wasted and simply for the person who is tired of comparing agency tours only to find you always have to give up one thing for something else. Just pick the highlights you wish to see & visit from the list below and we will create your very private and bespoke... read more
