TopView® 24 Hr Hop on Hop off Bus Tour with River Cruise & Walks

Experience London with the TopView® 24 Hr Hop on Hop off Bus Tour with River Cruise & Walks

If you’re looking for a flexible way to see London’s most iconic sights, the TopView® 24-Hour Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour offers an intriguing combination of convenience and variety. Priced at around $50.83 per person, this package promises an entire day of exploration — from the comfort of a double-decker bus, cruising along the Thames, and walking through some of the city’s most famous neighborhoods.

What we really appreciate is how this tour lets you customize your experience. You can hop on and off at major landmarks like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and the Tower of London, take a scenic Thames River cruise, and join up to three guided walks. It’s a practical way to cover a lot of ground without the stress of planning each detail yourself.

However, it’s worth noting that some reviews point out that organization and communication can be inconsistent, especially with regard to the bus stops and customer service. If you’re someone who likes everything clearly mapped out and well-staffed, this may be a consideration. Still, for travelers who enjoy a bit of flexibility and adventure, it’s generally a good fit, especially if you want to see London without feeling tied down.

This experience suits first-time visitors eager to get a broad overview, or those with limited time who want a taste of London’s highlights. For independent explorers, it’s a handy way to get oriented, but be prepared for some variability in the service experience.

Key Points

• Flexible 24-hour access allows you to explore at your own pace.
• Includes a Thames River cruise for waterfront views of the city.
• Up to three guided walking tours offer deeper insight into specific neighborhoods.
• Stops at all major attractions like Buckingham Palace, St. Paul’s, and Tower of London.
• Some reviews mention organizational issues, so check your details before setting out.
• Cost-benefit ratio can be good for those wanting variety without multiple bookings.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Logistics and Transportation

This tour is essentially a comprehensive mobility package. For around $50, you get unlimited hop-on hop-off bus rides for 24 hours, meaning you can truly customize your day. The buses run frequently, so waiting times are usually minimal, and you’ll find stops near most of London’s key attractions.

One of the biggest perks is the flexibility. Instead of rigidly scheduled tours, you’re free to linger, skip, or revisit areas as you wish. The stops are well-placed, from Marble Arch and Piccadilly Circus to Tower of London and Buckingham Palace. The bus stops are clearly situated near iconic landmarks, making it easier for first-timers to navigate.

The Thames River Cruise

A highlight of this package is the one-way Thames River cruise with City Cruises, departing from either Tower Millennium Pier or Westminster Millennium Pier. This scenic cruise offers a different perspective of the city’s skyline, passing under historic bridges and alongside famous structures like the London Eye and the Tower of London.

Reviewers like Jeffrey noted that the cruise offers “nice views and comfortable seating,” making it a great way to relax after a busy morning sightseeing. It’s a short, scenic break that enhances your overall understanding of London’s layout and history.

The Guided Walking Tours

The tour includes up to three walking tours, with options focusing on areas like the Royal Parks or the West End district. These intimate walks give you a closer look at neighborhoods that are often just glimpsed from the bus.

Some reviews mention that the walks can be brief or less detailed than expected, but others appreciated the personalized insight from local guides. The advantage here is getting a sense of the local atmosphere, architecture, and history beyond what you see from the bus.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The stops cover London’s most famous sights:

• Marble Arch and Park Lane kick off the tour with iconic sights near Speakers’ Corner.
• Piccadilly Circus and Trafalgar Square are lively hubs filled with shops, theaters, and statues.
• Big Ben and Westminster offer stunning views of Parliament and the Houses of Parliament.
• The London Eye is accessible from two stops, providing different vantage points.
• The Tower of London is a must-visit, rich in history and home to the Crown Jewels.
• Buckingham Palace and Queen Elizabeth Gate are key royal landmarks, perfect for photo ops.
• The tour also covers less touristy neighborhoods like Notting Hill and Kensington, with stops at the Victoria and Albert Museum and Diana Memorial Gardens.

Real Traveler Perspectives

While some reviews praise the convenience (“This was a great way to get around central London,” Jeffrey noted), others highlight organizational hiccups. Jeanne and Melissa both lamented difficulties with finding the stops or getting refunds—a reminder that this isn’t always the smoothest experience, especially if you’re relying on the booking platform or the company’s customer service.

A common thread is that the buses can be crowded during peak hours, and timing flexibility is critical. One review mentioned that buses at Marble Arch sometimes leave earlier than scheduled, so it’s wise to plan ahead and be ready.

Customer Service and Practicalities

The meeting points are near major transportation hubs, making it easy to integrate into your broader travel plans. The tour operates daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., giving you plenty of time to explore.

Also, the tickets are valid for 12 months after purchase, allowing flexibility if your plans change. The free cancellation policy—up to 24 hours before the experience—adds peace of mind.

What We Like

We love the combo of different modes of transport—bus, boat, and on-foot exploration. This variety means you can experience London from multiple angles, each offering something unique.

Another highlight is the opportunity to hop on and off at key landmarks, so you’re not stuck on the bus all day. Plus, the scenic Thames cruise offers a peaceful break from busy streets, with views that are hard to beat.

What Could Be Better

Some travelers report confusion about the exact stop locations and poor customer support in resolving issues. The lack of a detailed map in advance means you’ll need to pay close attention or ask for directions. Also, since entrance fees to attractions aren’t included, you might want to budget extra if you plan to go inside sites like the Tower of London or Westminster Abbey.

Who Will Get the Most Out of This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates flexibility and variety in sightseeing, this package offers good value. It’s ideal for visitors with a limited schedule who want to hit all the highlights without booking multiple tickets.

It’s also well-suited for travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides and are okay with some organizational quirks. If you prefer a very structured, guided experience, or want priority access to attractions, this might not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts

This TopView® 24 Hr Hop-on Hop-off tour provides a practical way to see London’s top sights at your own pace. The combination of bus rides, a Thames cruise, and walking tours creates a multi-dimensional view of the city, perfect for first-timers and those wanting a flexible overview.

While some reviews point out organizational issues, many travelers find the overall experience worth the price—especially when you want to maximize your limited time in London without feeling overwhelmed.

For travelers who value freedom in their sightseeing and enjoy scenic moments along the river, this tour offers a balanced mix of convenience, variety, and local flavor. Just keep in mind that customer service can vary, so staying flexible and prepared is key.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for first-time visitors to London?
Yes, it provides a broad overview of the city’s major landmarks and neighborhoods, making it ideal for first-timers who want a general sense of London.

Can I hop off and explore a site, then get back on later?
Absolutely. The ticket grants unlimited hop-on hop-off access for 24 hours, so you can tailor your day around your interests.

Is the Thames River cruise included in the price?
Yes, the cruise is part of the package and departs from Tower Millennium Pier or Westminster Millennium Pier.

Are attraction entrances included?
No, entrance fees to attractions like the Tower of London or Westminster Abbey are not included, so plan accordingly.

What are the operating hours?
The tour runs daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., giving plenty of time to explore.

How often do buses arrive?
Buses run frequently, minimizing wait times, although during peak hours they can get crowded.

Are the stops clearly marked?
Most stops are near major landmarks, but some reviews suggest that maps and directions may not always be clear.

What should I bring for the walking tours?
Comfortable shoes, a weather-appropriate jacket, and a sense of curiosity are recommended. Tours are up to three per day, so dress appropriately.

Can I cancel the ticket if my plans change?
Yes, tickets are fully refundable if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Is there customer support available if I have issues?
Support is available, but some reviews mention difficulty reaching customer service or resolving problems, so plan accordingly.

This tour offers a practical way to see London’s essentials with the freedom to explore at your own pace. It’s best suited for adventurous travelers who don’t mind some unpredictability and want a versatile, budget-friendly option for city sightseeing.