If you’re planning your sightseeing strategy in London, a hop on hop off bus London tour is a fantastic way to explore the city’s iconic landmarks at your own pace. These tours offer the convenience of unlimited boarding and alighting at major stops, allowing you to tailor your day exactly how you want it. But with so many companies offering similar services, how do you choose the best one? This list compares the top hop-on hop-off bus tours in London, weighing up routes, prices, and standout features to help you pick the perfect fit for your trip. Whether you want comprehensive coverage, budget-friendly options, or a more boutique experience, we’ve got you covered.
1. Big Bus Tours London – The Most Comprehensive Choice
Big Bus Tours is widely regarded as the most extensive hop-on hop-off service in London. Their routes cover all the major sights, including Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, the London Eye, and Westminster Abbey. The full loop takes approximately 2 hours without stops, but with the flexibility to hop off at any attraction, you can spend as much time as you like exploring. Prices start around £40 for a 24-hour ticket, with options to upgrade to 48 or 72 hours. The buses run frequently, and audio commentary is available in multiple languages. Booking online through GetYourGuide often saves you money compared to buying tickets on the street.
2. Original London Sightseeing Tour – Great for First-Timers
The Original London Sightseeing Tour offers two main routes: the Red Route covering central London and the Blue Route heading west towards Kensington and Notting Hill. This makes it ideal if you want to explore beyond the usual tourist spots. Tickets start at about £35 for a 24-hour pass. The buses feature live guides, which adds a personal touch to your journey. The downside is that the network isn’t quite as extensive as Big Bus, so some attractions like the Shard are less accessible.
3. Tootbus London – Modern Fleet and Good Value
Tootbus is a newer player but has quickly gained popularity thanks to its modern, eco-friendly buses and competitive pricing. Their routes cover key landmarks similar to Big Bus but with slightly fewer stops. A 24-hour ticket costs around £30, making it a budget-friendly option. Tootbus also offers a night tour, which is a unique way to see London’s illuminated skyline. However, the audio commentary is app-based, so you’ll need a smartphone and headphones.
4. Golden Tours – Best for Combined Experiences
Golden Tours offers hop-on hop-off tickets alongside package deals that include river cruises and walking tours. Their bus routes cover the main sights, but where they shine is in bundling experiences like a Thames river trip or entry to the Tower of London. Prices are slightly higher, starting at £45, but the combined tickets offer good value if you plan to do multiple activities. Their buses run every 15-20 minutes during peak times.
5. Big Bus Night Tour – See London After Dark
If you want to experience London’s landmarks beautifully lit up, Big Bus’s Night Tour is a great add-on. It lasts about 1.5 hours and covers iconic spots like the Tower Bridge and the Houses of Parliament. It’s a relaxing way to see the city without the daytime crowds. Tickets start at £20, and you can add this to your day pass for a discounted rate.
6. City Sightseeing London – Budget-Friendly Option
City Sightseeing offers a basic hop-on hop-off service with a straightforward red route covering central London. Tickets are cheaper, starting at £25 for 24 hours, making it a good choice if you’re on a tight budget. However, the buses are less frequent, and the commentary is pre-recorded, which some travellers find less engaging. The route covers major stops like Trafalgar Square and the British Museum.
7. The Original Tour – Family-Friendly Features
The Original Tour is known for its family-friendly approach, including special kids’ commentary and activity packs. Their routes cover popular family attractions like the London Zoo and Madame Tussauds. Prices are mid-range at around £35 for 24 hours. This tour is perfect if you’re travelling with children and want an engaging experience for all ages.
8. London City Tour – Boutique Experience
London City Tour offers a smaller fleet with a focus on quality over quantity. Their routes are shorter but include some hidden gems like the Barbican and Smithfield Market. The buses are smaller and less crowded, providing a more intimate atmosphere. Tickets are around £30 for 24 hours. This option suits travellers looking for a less touristy vibe.
9. Foxity London Hop-On Hop-Off – Audio Commentary in Multiple Languages
Foxity’s buses come equipped with audio commentary in over 10 languages, making it ideal for international visitors. The routes cover central London’s highlights, and tickets start at £28 for 24 hours. They also offer mobile app integration for live updates on bus locations. While the fleet is smaller, the multilingual support is a big plus.
10. Big Bus Premium Package – Extra Perks Included
For those wanting a more luxurious experience, Big Bus offers a Premium Package that includes fast-track entry to popular attractions like the London Eye and Madame Tussauds. The package costs around £60 but bundles sightseeing with skip-the-line access, saving you time on busy days. It’s a good option if you want to maximize your sightseeing efficiency.
Practical Planning Tips for Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours in London
When choosing your hop-on hop-off bus tour, consider how many days you’ll spend in London and which attractions are your must-sees. If you only have a day or two, Big Bus’s comprehensive routes and frequent buses make it the best value. Booking tickets online in advance usually offers discounts of up to 20% compared to buying on the street, so check sites like GetYourGuide or Tiqets before you arrive.
Plan your day around the bus schedules and opening times of attractions. For example, hop off at Westminster early to beat the crowds at the Houses of Parliament, or visit the Tower of London in the afternoon. Most tours provide free Wi-Fi onboard and audio guides, but some require you to download an app, so bring headphones and a charged phone.
If you’re interested in combining your bus tour with other experiences, consider packages that include river cruises or walking tours. Also, look into city passes like the London Pass or the New London City Pass for additional savings on entry fees.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right hop on hop off bus London tour depends on your priorities—whether it’s route coverage, price, or added extras. Big Bus Tours stands out for its extensive network and flexibility, making it the top pick for most travellers. However, other operators like Original London Sightseeing and Tootbus offer solid alternatives depending on your preferences and budget. Booking online in advance is the smartest way to secure the best price and ensure a smooth start to your London adventure.
📷 Photo by Pedro Sucupira on Unsplash
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