Dover is one of those places where history and natural beauty collide beautifully. Its dramatic white cliffs, historic castles, and close proximity to France make it a prime spot for sightseeing. If you’re visiting Dover—whether on a cruise or just for the day—you’ll find plenty of guided options that suit different interests and budgets. We particularly like the Dover & White Cliffs Tour; Canterbury, Coastal Towns & Castles for its comprehensive coverage of Kent’s highlights, plus the knowledgeable guides who bring stories to life.
This list covers a variety of tours, from full-day explorations to private transfers, each offering a different way to enjoy Dover and its surroundings. Whether you want to explore medieval towns, enjoy wine tastings, or simply relax with a private chauffeur, there’s something here for most travelers.
Quick Overview
Our list features full-day tours, private half-day trips, wine tours, and luxury transfers. Some tours focus on iconic sights like the White Cliffs and Dover Castle, while others include charming villages like Sandwich and Chilham. We also highlight special experiences such as a private walk in Rye or a full-day wine tour in Sussex and Kent. Each experience offers something unique, whether it’s the scenery, historical insights, or personalized service.
Now, let’s dive into our top picks for the best tours in Dover.
1. Dover & White Cliffs Tour; Canterbury, Coastal Towns & Castles
At number one, this full-day tour takes you around Kent’s countryside in a luxury minibus, making it ideal for avoiding logistical headaches and maximizing your time. You’ll visit the Battle of Britain Memorial on Dover’s famous white cliffs, explore medieval Canterbury, and see coastal villages like Sandwich. The tour includes stops at Dover Castle, and your guide provides engaging commentary throughout.
Guests consistently praise the guide’s knowledge and friendliness, with one reviewer noting, “Matt was extremely accommodating and very knowledgeable.” The tour’s value lies in its carefully curated itinerary, which blends iconic sights with charming villages, all from a comfortable vehicle. It’s perfect for travelers who want a rundown without worrying about transportation logistics.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, engaging way to see Kent’s best, especially if you want expert guidance and a hassle-free experience.
2. Dover Shore Excursion: Post-Cruise Tour to London via Canterbury and Leeds Castle
This tour is ideal if your cruise ends in Dover and you want to start your London visit with a touch of history. It combines a trip to Canterbury—home of the famous cathedral—and a guided tour of Leeds Castle, one of the most picturesque castles in England. The trip ends with a convenient drop-off at your London hotel or Heathrow Airport.
You’ll get to explore Canterbury’s medieval streets and the grounds of Leeds Castle, famous for its beauty and royal associations. The guide’s stories about the castles and the city’s past add charm to this experience. Guests value the ease of combining sightseeing with your transfer, especially with a knowledgeable guide making the stops more meaningful.
Bottom Line: Perfect for cruise passengers wanting a scenic and historical introduction to England before heading to London.
3. Full Day Wine Tour in Sussex and Kent
For those who enjoy a good glass, this wine tour offers a relaxing day in the countryside. Visiting two or three vineyards, you’ll learn about wine production and sample local vintages. The tour includes guided vineyard walks and tastings, set amidst the stunning East Sussex or Kent scenery.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on local craftsmanship—visitors love the opportunity to purchase wines directly from the producers. With only 9 reviews, it’s a small, personalized experience, perfect for wine enthusiasts or anyone wanting to enjoy the scenic vineyards without driving. It’s a good value at just over $200, offering a distinct taste of English countryside and winemaking.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for wine lovers seeking an intimate, educational, and delicious day out.
4. Private Half-Day Trip to Picture Postcard Villages of East Kent from Dover Including Traditional Cream Tea
If your time is limited but you want a snapshot of Kent’s most charming spots, this private half-day tour fits the bill. It includes visits to Sandwich, one of the best-preserved medieval towns, and the coastal Deal with its historic seafront. The tour culminates with a traditional cream tea in Sandwich, adding a classic touch to your experience.
This tour is fully customizable—your guide will tailor stops according to your interests—and you can choose your departure time. Past travelers highlight the guide’s friendliness and the lovely scenery, with one noting, “Relax over a traditional cream tea in Sandwich.” It’s perfect for travelers short on time but hungry for authentic village charm.
Bottom Line: A personalized, relaxed way to see the quintessential villages of Kent and enjoy a classic afternoon tea.
5. Battle of Britain Experience, White Cliffs of Dover & Canterbury
This private tour combines WWII history with iconic sights like the White Cliffs and Canterbury. Led by Dr. Anthony Medhurst, it’s a deep dive into Britain’s resilience during wartime, with visits to the Battle of Britain Memorial, Dover’s Western Heights, and Canterbury’s UNESCO-listed Cathedral.
Guests rave about Anthony’s passion and knowledge, with one reviewer saying, “Anthony was fantastic—so knowledgeable and fun.” The tour is intimate, with a small group of up to four, and offers a rare chance to see original gun emplacements and learn about Britain’s coastal defenses. It’s best suited for history buffs or travelers interested in WWII stories.
Bottom Line: A private, historically rich experience perfect for those wanting an in-depth look at Britain’s wartime defenses.
6. Dover Cruise Ship to Leeds Castle via Canterbury, Villages & back
This tour offers a flexible way for cruise passengers to explore Kent’s highlights in a small group. Starting with Canterbury, you’ll enjoy free time to explore the cathedral and cobbled streets before heading through the Stour Valley to visit quaint villages and Leeds Castle.
The small group size (up to 16) ensures a personalized experience, and the guide’s local knowledge shines through. Reviewers appreciate this tour for its balance of sightseeing and relaxed pace, with comments like, “We thoroughly enjoyed the experience.” It provides a good mix of history, scenery, and local flavor for about $190.
Bottom Line: Best for cruise travelers who want a customizable, small-group trip with good flexibility.
7. Chauffeur Transfer: Dover Cruise Port to/from Heathrow Airport
This is a no-fuss, premium transfer option. Travel in style with luxury vehicles like Mercedes E-Class and V-Class, with a professional chauffeur who knows the route well. The service includes port pickup, luggage assistance, and stops if needed.
Guests love the reliability and comfort, especially for tight schedules. This is ideal for travelers with early flights or those who want to start or end their trip with a touch of luxury. It’s straightforward and offers excellent value for the high level of service.
Bottom Line: A top choice for those who prioritize comfort and convenience over sightseeing.
8. Secrets of Rye – Quaint History You Can See!
Rye is a small, picturesque town full of stories and photo opportunities. This private walk takes you through medieval streets, Henry VIII’s Camber Castle, the Mermaid Inn—the haunt of the Hawkhurst Gang—and the house once lived in by Henry James.
The tour is perfect for history buffs and photographers alike, with no transport included but plenty of walking and exploring. Reviewers mention the “many photo opportunities” and the guide’s engaging storytelling. It’s a charming, intimate experience, ideal for those wanting a slow-paced, authentic visit to one of England’s prettiest towns.
Bottom Line: A delightful way to experience Rye’s stories and scenery at your own pace.
9. Private Transfer From Dover Cruise to London via Dover Castle
For a smooth journey from Dover to London with a sightseeing twist, this private transfer includes a stop at Dover Castle. You’ll disembark at the cruise terminal, explore the castle for two hours (own expense), then continue your trip to London.
Guests appreciate the flexibility and the chance to stretch their legs at the castle. The Mercedes-Benz vehicle provides comfort, and the driver handles all the logistics. It’s suitable for those who want to combine sightseeing with your transfer, making it a practical choice.
Bottom Line: An efficient, flexible way to add a castle visit to your transfer to London.
10. VIP Chauffeur Transfer: Dover Cruise Port to/from Gatwick Airport
This luxury transfer service offers a high-end experience, with top-of-the-line vehicles and personalized service. It includes meet-and-greet, luggage help, and real-time monitoring of flight info.
Perfect for travelers looking for privacy and style, this service ensures a stress-free ride from Dover to Gatwick Airport. It’s best suited for those valuing comfort and punctuality, especially with tight flight schedules.
Bottom Line: A premium, reliable transfer for travelers who don’t want to compromise on comfort.
11. Shore Excursion: Dover Cruise Terminal to London with Stopover at Dover Castle
This guided private transfer combines sightseeing en route to London. Stop at Dover Castle and the White Cliffs, then enjoy a quick drive-by of London’s top sights. It’s perfect for cruise passengers who want a relaxed, scenic trip without multiple stops.
The vehicle is equipped with WiFi, snacks, and drinks, making it comfortable for up to six travelers. Guests appreciate the personalized service and the chance to see Dover’s icons before heading to the capital.
Bottom Line: Ideal for cruise travelers seeking a scenic, stress-free transfer with sightseeing.
12. Dover To London Private Transfer Service
If you’re looking for a straightforward, private ride from Dover to London, this pre-booked transfer offers a comfortable Mercedes-Benz with no stops. It’s great for those who prefer to travel directly with no fuss.
Reviewers note the driver’s professionalism and punctuality, making it a reliable choice. It’s suited for travelers wanting to skip the hassle of taxis or train stations and arrive relaxed.
Bottom Line: Simplicity and comfort for direct, private transfer needs.
13. Countryside Castles and Coast Tour in Kent
This private tour covers the most beautiful and memorable locations in Kent in around seven hours. It includes views of Dover’s White Cliffs, a drive through Kent’s picturesque villages like Bishopsbourne, and stops at historic sites such as Bourne Park.
Designed for small groups, it offers a personalized experience, with a focus on off-the-beaten-path sights and stunning scenery. Reviewers enjoy the flexible itinerary and the knowledgeable guide, Dr. Anthony Medhurst. It’s perfect for travelers with limited time but a desire for a deeper local experience.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a tailored, scenic exploration of Kent’s countryside and castles.
14. Private Transfer From Dover Cruise Terminal to Heathrow Airport
This quick, private transfer takes you from Dover directly to Heathrow Airport in about 1.5 to 2 hours. It includes luggage assistance and the ability to customize your pickup time.
Travelers appreciate the punctuality and the comfort of the vehicle, making it an excellent choice for catching a flight without stress. It’s especially suited for those with early flights or tight schedules.
Bottom Line: Fast, reliable, and private—perfect for catching that flight on time.
15. Dover to Heathrow Airport or London Private Minibus Transfer
This spacious and private minibus service offers a door-to-door transfer with plenty of room for families or groups of friends (up to 14 people). It’s a convenient way to get from Dover to London or Heathrow without hauling luggage or waiting in lines.
Drivers are professional and experienced, ensuring a smooth trip. Reviewers note the comfort and reliability, making it ideal for large groups.
Bottom Line: The best option for groups wanting a private, hassle-free ride to London or the airport.
$897.59 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Dover Tour
When selecting the right experience, consider your budget, time available, and interests. If you want an all-in-one day soaking in history and scenery, the Dover & White Cliffs Tour offers excellent value. For a more personalized touch, the Private Half-Day Village Trip provides flexibility and tailored stops.
If your focus is on historic sites, the Battle of Britain Experience or the Countryside Castles Tour are compelling options. For luxury and convenience, the private transfers—like the VIP Chauffeur Service—are worth considering.
Booking early often ensures availability, especially during peak seasons, and helps align your preferred times with local guides.
Final Thoughts
Dover offers a surprising variety of ways to experience its highlights, whether you’re after full-day adventures, private tailored tours, or stress-free transfers. For a balanced day of history, scenery, and local flavor, the Dover & White Cliffs Tour is a top choice. If you want a more intimate experience, the private options like the Secrets of Rye or private transfers are excellent.
No matter which you pick, booking ahead guarantees you’ll enjoy your visit without last-minute stress. Dover’s rich scenery and historic sites are well worth exploring—so plan wisely and make the most of your time in this charming corner of England.