London: London Eye, River Cruise, & Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

Traveling through London quickly can feel like trying to drink from a firehose — the city’s sights are endless and impressive. With this combo ticket, you get a well-rounded glimpse of what makes London such an exciting place: soaring above the skyline on the London Eye, relaxing on the Thames River cruise, and hopping on a double-decker bus that takes you past the city’s most iconic sites.

The price — around $83.51 per person — might seem steep at first glance, but when you consider this includes three separate experiences, it’s actually quite good value. The 24-hour or 48-hour ticket flexibility means you can pace yourself, making this perfect for a short trip or an intensive sightseeing day.

We love how the bus route covers major landmarks like Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and Buckingham Palace, giving us a quick overview of the city’s layout. The London Eye offers a breathtaking view that’s worth the early morning wait, and the Thames cruise adds a peaceful, scenic break after busy city exploration.

One thing to keep in mind: the bus journey can be slow due to London traffic, which may test your patience if you’re pressed for time. Also, the audio commentary, while generally helpful, can get repetitive during long rides. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a broad, flexible introduction to London, especially those with limited time but a desire to see the top sights comfortably.

Key Points

• Flexible 1- or 2-day ticket allows you to explore London at your own pace.
• Includes three main experiences: hop-on hop-off bus, London Eye, and Thames River cruise.
• Many stops at top landmarks like Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge.
• Audio commentary and Wi-Fi on buses enhance the experience.
• Great value for the price considering all three activities.
• Traffic can slow down the bus route; plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Components

The Hop-on Hop-off Bus Experience

The Big Bus Tours are a cornerstone of this package, offering unlimited hop-on, hop-off access for either 24 or 48 hours. This means you can jump off at any of the stops to explore sites like St. Paul’s Cathedral, Harrods, or Kensington Palace, then hop back on when you’re ready. The route covers three main lines, giving a rundown of London’s layout.

The buses are open-top, giving you fantastic panoramic views. Reviewers mention the audio guide — available in multiple languages — as generally informative, with some noting it could be a bit overdone at times. The Wi-Fi on board is a thoughtful addition, helping you stay connected while navigating the city.

However, some travelers find the buses stuck in traffic, which can extend travel time significantly. One reviewer noted that a driver even used commentary to fill the waiting periods, which was appreciated. The drivers are described as helpful and friendly, and many travelers value the flexibility to explore sights at their own pace.

The London Eye Experience

Taking a ride on the London Eye is a highlight of this trip. The ticket includes fast-track entry, which is highly recommended to avoid long lines, particularly during busy times. From the top of this world-famous observation wheel, you’ll get stunning 360-degree views of London’s skyline, including Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Abbey.

Reviewers have called the London Eye “definitely worth a visit,” with many noting that the staff are friendly and the experience is well-managed. One guest mentioned it’s an unobstructed vantage point, perfect for photos and taking in the city’s grandeur.

Timing is crucial here; since the ticket is for a specific timeslot, booking in advance is strongly advised. An earlier ride in the day can help you beat the crowds, especially if you want the best lighting and fewer people in your photos.

Thames River Cruise

The scenic cruise along the River Thames complements the other activities beautifully. It runs between Tower of London and Westminster Pier, offering views of Tower Bridge, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Shard from the water. The relaxing pace means you can sit back and appreciate London’s architecture and bridges from a different perspective.

While some reviews mention longer waiting times due to traffic, the entertainment on board — especially the commentary — often makes the trip engaging. One reviewer praised a guide named Bill for making the trip memorable with his insights.

Weather can influence the experience; on rainy days, the waterway might be less appealing, but the scenic views and calm atmosphere make it worthwhile on clear days.

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The Itinerary and Practicalities

You can start your adventure at any of the Big Bus stops, with popular options being London Eye, Victoria Station, or Trafalgar Square. The stops are conveniently located near major attractions, so it’s easy to maximize your time.

The combined ticket also offers the chance to walk guided tours (for 2-day tickets), adding a more personal touch to your sightseeing. These are in addition to the bus, Eye, and cruise, giving you a deeper understanding of London’s neighborhoods and history.

Note that hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point, usually London Eye Tickets. The redeeming process is straightforward — just visit a designated stop, like Stop 11 near the London Eye, to exchange your voucher.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

What makes this tour stand out is the authenticity of the experience. The buses are actually traveling through the city’s streets, giving you a real feel for London’s neighborhoods. The London Eye is a genuine landmark, not a manufactured attraction. And the Thames cruise takes you through areas like Tower Bridge and Westminster that you might spend days exploring on foot.

Many travelers comment on the knowledgeable guides (or the audio commentary) that add context, making the sightseeing more meaningful. One reviewer appreciated the entertaining commentary by the guide Bill, noting it enhanced the trip.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This package is ideal if you want a broad overview of London without rushing between sites. It’s excellent for first-timers, families, or travelers with limited time who want to cover maximum ground. The flexibility of the hop-on hop-off bus makes it suitable for those who prefer to explore at their own pace.

However, if you’re sensitive to traffic delays and prefer a more intimate, guided experience, you might consider other options. It’s also perfect for photo enthusiasts, given the stunning views from the London Eye and the cruise.

The Sum Up

This combination tour offers excellent value for money and a diverse snapshot of London. You get to see major landmarks from above, from the water, and on land, which gives a well-rounded perspective of this vibrant city. The bus routes are comprehensive, and the London Eye and Thames cruise are highlights that many travelers find memorable.

It’s especially suited for visitors seeking flexibility and variety. The helpful guides and scenic views make the experience enjoyable, even if occasional traffic delays can slow the bus. If you’re okay with the possibility of longer ride times and want the convenience of multiple attractions bundled together, this tour delivers on its promises.

For those who want to maximize a short stay in London and prefer the comfort of guided routes with plenty of photo opportunities, this combo ticket is a smart choice. Just remember to book your London Eye slot in advance and plan your day accordingly to avoid missing out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I choose which day I do the tour?
Yes, your ticket is valid for 1 or 2 days, depending on what you purchase. You can start on any eligible day during the ticket’s validity period.

Do I need to pre-book the London Eye?
Yes, you must pre-book your specific timeslot for the London Eye after purchasing your ticket to ensure smooth entry and avoid long lines.

Is the Thames River cruise included in the ticket price?
Yes, the cruise along the Thames from Tower of London to Westminster Pier is included with your combo ticket.

Are the buses accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, all buses are equipped with ramps and the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What should I do if I want to hop off and explore a site longer?
Just hop off at any stop, explore at your leisure, then hop back on the next bus when you’re ready to continue.

Is Wi-Fi available during the bus tour?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is provided on every bus, so you can share your photos or look up additional info on the go.

This tour’s blend of sightseeing, scenic views, and flexible scheduling makes it a solid choice for many visitors eager to get the most out of their short stay in London.

You can check availability for your dates here: