London is a city that rewards exploration—whether you’re a first-timer eager to see the iconic landmarks or a seasoned visitor looking for hidden corners. Its vast history, lively neighborhoods, and world-famous sights make it ideal for a variety of tour styles. We’re particularly fond of the City Sightseeing London Hop-On Hop-Off Bus for its flexibility and engaging commentary, and the 2.5-hour Off the Beaten Track Private City Tour for discovering trendy Shoreditch away from the crowds. Whether you prefer the comfort of a private vehicle or wandering through historic streets on foot, London’s tours offer a rich array of ways to enjoy this vibrant city.
Quick Overview
Our list covers multi-day hop-on hop-off buses, customizable explorer passes, guided walking tours, private luxury rides, and even mystical and themed excursions. Some tours spotlight London’s most famous sights like Westminster Abbey or Tower of London, while others reveal hidden stories behind alleyways and ancient ruins. Whether you’re after a cost-effective flexible option or an intimate guided experience, this list will help you decide what suits your style and schedule best.
1. City Sightseeing London Hop-On Hop-Off Bus & Bookable Extras
At number 1, the classic Hop-On Hop-Off Bus is a staple for London visitors. This tour allows you to see Tower of London, Big Ben, Trafalgar Square, and the Victoria & Albert Museum with the flexibility to get on and off at your own pace. The tour runs for 1, 24, 48 or 72 hours, making it easy to customize your schedule. Audio commentary offers fascinating insights, and upgrades include a Thames river cruise, adding an extra perspective of the city. The direct shuttle service between lines simplifies travel, so you spend less time navigating and more time exploring.
Guests love the ease of access with both mobile and printed vouchers accepted. Its high rating of 4.4/5 from over 7,100 reviews speaks to its popularity. Perfect for first-time visitors, this tour is a reliable way to get an overview of London’s most famous sights.
Bottom Line: A versatile, budget-friendly choice that offers both transportation and sightseeing in one.
2. London: Go City Explorer Pass® – Tickets for 2-7 Attractions
The Go City Explorer Pass hits the mark for flexibility and value. For around $73, you get to choose between 2 and 7 attractions from over 90 options, including The Shard, Tower of London, and a Thames River Cruise. This pass is ideal if you want to create a personalized itinerary without the hassle of buying individual tickets. Many reviewers praise how easy it is to use (via the app) and how it saves up to 50% compared to buying separate entries. It’s best suited for travelers who want to see a mix of historic sites, museums, and fun tours over a month-long window.
One user exclaimed, “It was super easy to use and included the most popular attractions.” The pass’s ability to combine multiple experiences makes it a fantastic choice for a flexible, cost-effective London adventure.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who prefer customizing their sightseeing and want to maximize savings.
3. London: City, Square Mile & St. Pauls with Local Guide
This three-hour tour offers an immersive look at London’s oldest streets, from Roman remains to modern skyscrapers. The City, Square Mile & St. Pauls with Local Guide is particularly appealing because the guide shares stories that connect the city’s past to its present, including a visit to the roof garden with panoramic views (on Sun and Mon). The itinerary covers St. Paul’s Cathedral, Tower of London, and the oldest pub in the city.
Guests love the depth of local knowledge and the chance to see the Bow Bells and the Tower of London up close. The inclusion of a rooftop garden speaks to the tour’s aim of offering both historical insight and scenic vistas. At $49 per person, it’s a well-priced way to explore London’s core.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you want a compact, guided exploration with unique views.
4. London: Old City Walking Tour
Step back in time on the Old City Walking Tour, which covers London’s original square mile along the River Thames. Over 2.5 hours, you’ll visit landmarks like St. Paul’s Cathedral and cross the “wobbly” Millennium Bridge. The tour also takes in Tower Bridge and the Tower of London, sharing stories of past fires, plagues, and wartime.
The guide receives high praise for their knowledge, with many mentioning how engaging and informative the experience is. The tour is perfect for travelers wanting to walk through historic streets while hearing colorful stories about London’s past. It’s a good fit for those with moderate walking ability, as it covers a fair distance in 2.5 hours.
Bottom Line: An engaging, history-rich walk ideal for history buffs and curious travelers alike.
5. London: Upside Down House Westfield White City Entry Ticket
For a lighter, playful experience, the Upside Down House offers a fun detour. It’s a modern illusion museum where everything is built upside down, offering creative photo opportunities and a break from sightseeing. It’s open for one day and costs just over $10 per person.
Guests of all ages enjoy walking on the ceiling, reaching for the coffee table, and taking quirky photos. While the house is small and might feel claustrophobic to some, the experience is more about the fun and novelty than length or complexity. This is ideal for families or those wanting a quick, memorable photo stop.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly and amusing stop for a quick dose of whimsy.
6. London: 2.5-Hour Off the Beaten Track Private City Tour
If you’re craving a personalized experience, the Private Shoreditch Tour takes you to trendy neighborhoods with a local guide. For $123, you’ll explore East London’s cool streets, street art, and hidden corners. The guide customizes the tour based on your interests, sharing stories about local culture and gentrification.
Guests appreciate how this tour reveals the city’s changing face and offers a different perspective than typical sightseeing. It’s perfect for travelers wanting an intimate, flexible experience and interested in modern London life. The guide’s ability to tailor the tour makes it stand out.
Bottom Line: Ideal for trend-watchers and those seeking a more authentic, personalized London experience.
7. London city tour in German: Highlight Tour
This two-hour German-language Highlight Tour is perfect if you want to hear London’s stories in your native tongue. It covers Westminster, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and Piccadilly. The guide shares entertaining historical insights, making it accessible for German speakers or those wanting a different perspective.
Guests love the compact format and the chance to see key sights while getting expert commentary. It’s especially suited for travelers with limited time or those who prefer guided tours in their language.
Bottom Line: A concise, language-specific tour that hits London’s highlights with ease.
8. London: Hidden Secrets Of The City Guided Walking Tour
This Hidden Secrets Tour takes you through narrow alleyways and forgotten lanes of London’s core, revealing stories that most travelers miss. The 2.5-hour walk includes stops at Leadenhall Market, The Gherkin, and Brick Lane.
Rated 4.8/5, guests love how the guide shares dark tales, architectural symbolism, and introduces street art in Shoreditch, including spotting a Banksy. The tour is great for those who enjoy uncovering London’s lesser-known stories. It’s a lively, engaging walk suitable for those comfortable with a few hours of moderate walking.
Bottom Line: A fantastic option for history enthusiasts and urban explorers who want to see London’s secrets.
9. City Hike London (with Borough Market lunch break)
For the active traveler, the City Hike blends walking, sightseeing, and food. Over 4.5 hours, you’ll visit Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, St. Paul’s, and Tower of London, with a stop at Borough Market for lunch.
Rated 5/5, guests love the comprehensive itinerary, the entertaining stories, and the delicious market break. The tour ends at a London pub, perfect for unwinding. It’s ideal for those wanting a full day of sightseeing on foot, with a mix of landmarks and local flavor.
Bottom Line: A highly recommended, active way to cover London’s major sights with a tasty twist.
10. London: Sherlock Holmes Guided City Walking Tour
Fans of detective stories will enjoy the Sherlock Holmes Tour, which walks you through locations from the books, films, and TV series. The tour visits 221B Baker Street, shares secrets behind the stories, and explores the city’s connections to Holmes’ adventures.
Rated 5/5, participants appreciate the behind-the-scenes stories and the chance to see famous filming locations. It’s perfect for mystery lovers and those wanting a themed experience. The tour runs for 3 hours and is suitable for fans of literature and pop culture.
Bottom Line: A must-do for Sherlock fans and story lovers eager to see London through Holmes’ eyes.
11. London: Top Attractions and City Highlights Walking Tour
This two-hour walk is a condensed version of London’s highlights, starting from Charing Cross. You’ll visit Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, and Big Ben. The guide offers quick insights into royalty, politics, and famous events.
Guests note the efficient pacing and the gorgeous photo spots away from crowds. It’s well suited for those with limited time or who prefer a brisk overview of London’s most iconic sights.
Bottom Line: An efficient way to get a snapshot of London’s most famous landmarks.
12. London: Private City Tour
For maximum comfort and flexibility, the Private City Tour offers a luxury vehicle and a dedicated guide. For around $336, you’ll ride around in a classic British car, customizing your route to include your preferred sights.
Guests highlight how this is ideal for those wanting a tailor-made experience and for travelers with mobility issues. The guide’s local expertise ensures you see hidden treasures alongside the major landmarks. It’s a splurge, but a memorable way to enjoy London with privacy and style.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking a personalized, high-end experience.
13. Hidden Gems Tour of the City of London
This Hidden Gems Tour explores Roman ruins, Leadenhall Market, St. Paul’s, and the Great Fire of London site. It’s a compact 140-minute walk rated 5/5, perfect for those interested in lesser-known stories and offbeat history.
Guests appreciate their guide’s passion and knowledge, with one reviewer stating, “I saw and learned a lot, thank you.” It suits travelers who enjoy cultural deep dives and new discoveries.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for history buffs who want to uncover London’s quiet corners.
14. London: City Highlights Guided Bike Tour
Explore London on two wheels with the Bike Tour. Covering Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and Westminster Abbey, it’s a relaxed way to see the city. The bikes are comfortable, and the guide shares interesting stories along the route.
Rated 4.6/5, visitors love how easy and fun it is to see the sights from this different perspective. It’s perfect for active travelers who want a break from walking and still experience a lot.
Bottom Line: An engaging, healthy way to explore London’s key landmarks.
15. City of London Mystical and Dragons Walking Tour
Uncover London’s legendary dragons on this mystical walk through the oldest part of the city. The Mystical and Dragons Tour reveals ancient sites, symbolic architecture, and ley lines. Over 2.5 hours, you’ll visit St. Paul’s, London Stone, and Oldest Tree in the City.
Rated 4.8/5, guests enjoy the enchanting stories and insights into London’s magical past. It’s perfect for fans of folklore, architecture, and secret histories.
Bottom Line: A captivating choice for those interested in London’s mystical legends.
16. London: Famous Landmarks of the City by Car
For a luxurious and private experience, the Famous Landmarks by Car lets you see London’s highlights from the comfort of a chauffeur-driven vehicle. Over 4 hours, you’ll visit Buckingham Palace, Westminster Palace, and some less-visited sites. The private tour is customizable, making it ideal for families or groups wanting a tailored experience.
One reviewer called it “a perfect way to see everything without the hassle of walking or public transport.” It’s a premium option for travelers wanting privacy and a personal touch.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who prefer a comfortable, private sightseeing experience with flexible scheduling.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting a London tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. For a flexible overview, the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus offers great value—perfect for first-timers. If you want a deep dive into specific neighborhoods, the Private Shoreditch Tour is excellent.
For active travelers, the City Hike or the Bike Tour combine sightseeing with movement. Those with more time and budget may enjoy the luxury of a Private City Tour or Famous Landmarks by Car.
Booking early helps ensure availability, especially for popular guided walks and private options.
Final Thoughts
London offers an incredible variety of ways to explore—from hop-on hop-off buses to themed walks and private tours. For first-time visitors, the City Sightseeing Bus provides unmatched convenience, while seasoned travelers might prefer the personalized touch of the Private Shoreditch Tour. For a family-friendly adventure or a humorous experience, the Upside Down House is a fun stop.
No matter your style, London’s tours make discovering the city’s many layers easier and more enjoyable. Book early, plan around your interests, and remember that sometimes the best way to see London is simply to get lost in its streets.