York is a city built on layers of history, mystery, and a good dash of storytelling. Its compact size and walkable streets make it an ideal place for a variety of tours—whether you’re into magic and myth, medieval history, or stunning landscapes. We love the Wizard Walk of York for its fun, family-friendly magic—kids will love the wizard dressed guides and mythical creature hunts. For those wanting to get their bearings, the small-group Best of York on Foot offers a relaxed, insightful intro to the city’s top sights. And if you’re craving a full-day adventure, the North York Moors and Whitby Day Tour lets you explore scenic landscapes and film-famous towns.
Whether you prefer a spooky ghost tour, a train ride through the moors, or a self-guided treasure hunt, York’s diverse selection of tours makes planning your visit straightforward. Below, we’ve detailed the 15 best options to help you choose the right experience for your trip.
1. Wizard Walk of York – WINNER Best Tour & Best of York Award
At number 1, the Wizard Walk of York stands out for its perfect mix of magic, comedy, and history tailored specifically for children and wizard fans. This tour is York’s only experience created for kids aged 5-10 and features a guide dressed as a wizard performing close-up magic and jokes along the way. The 1 hour 15-minute walk takes you past iconic sights like York Minster and the Shambles, with stops to search for mythical creatures. The tour’s charm lies in its interactive storytelling, making history accessible and fun for families. It’s remarkably well-reviewed, with a perfect 5.0 rating from 739 reviews, and at just $16.47 per person, it offers fantastic value. This is ideal for families looking to combine sightseeing with a dose of magic.
Bottom line: A memorable, fun-filled experience that turns York into a fairy-tale for children and their parents alike.
2. The Best of York on Foot in a Small Group
For around $27.45, the Best of York on Foot provides a relaxed way to see York’s highlights without the hassle of navigation. It’s perfect for first-time visitors or those who want a quick yet thorough overview. The tour visits St Mary’s Abbey, York Minster, The Shambles, and Museum Gardens—all landmarks that tell the story of York’s medieval past. It caps at just eight travelers, ensuring a more personal experience. Guides like Alfred and Sarah consistently earn praise for their enthusiasm and detailed knowledge.
Bottom line: An excellent, intimate introduction to York, especially suited for travelers who want a manageable pace and expert insights.
3. North York Moors and Whitby Day Tour from York
For around $94.71, this full-day North York Moors and Whitby tour offers a mix of natural beauty and cinematic charm. It takes you from the medieval market town of Pickering into the stunning North York Moors National Park, with stops at Goathland, known as ‘Hogsmeade’ in the Harry Potter movies, and Whitby, famed for its seaside charm and Whitby Abbey. The tour includes visits to Byland Abbey and a scenic drive through the moors, with plenty of photo opportunities. Guests often comment on the guide’s knowledge and the breathtaking views. The highlight is riding the historic North Yorkshire Moors steam railway—a nostalgic ride through the countryside.
Bottom line: A well-rounded day trip perfect for those wanting to combine scenery, history, and a touch of Harry Potter magic.
4. Shared Walking Tour in York
At $20.59, this Shared Walking Tour is a solid choice for travelers who want a rundown without breaking the bank. Starting at The Guy Fawkes Inn, your guide dives into York’s infamous Gunpowder Plot, then takes you past York Minster, The Shambles, and Museum Gardens. The tour is flexible, with stops that include the Abbey ruins and parish churches. With a consistent 5-star rating, guides like Dave and Alfred bring York’s stories alive with humor and deep knowledge. It’s suitable for all ages and offers a relaxed way to get your bearings while hearing fascinating tales.
Bottom line: A budget-friendly, informative tour that covers the city’s most famous sights with engaging storytelling.
5. Steam Trains, Whitby, and the North York Moors Full-Day Tour from York
For $135.90, this 9-hour Steam Trains & Whitby experience is ideal for those seeking a scenic, immersive day. It includes a visit to Helmsley, exploring the North York Moors, and leisure time in Whitby—where you can savor fish and chips or visit Whitby Abbey. A highlight is riding the North Yorkshire Moors steam railway, which offers nostalgic views of the countryside. The tour is praised for its excellent guide and well-paced itinerary, perfect for fans of film, history, and nature alike. The small group size ensures personalized attention.
Bottom line: An all-encompassing day for landscape lovers and film buffs with a love for steam trains.
6. York Witches and History Walking Tour
For a spooky twist, the Witches and History Tour at $23.41 offers an entertaining 1 hour 10-minute walk through York’s darker past. Led by a guide in character as a witch, it covers medieval architecture, witchcraft accusations, and mysterious stories linked to the city’s history. Stops include Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate and York Minster, with tales that blend fact and folklore. The reviews highlight its humor and engaging storytelling, making it great for adults and children alike who want a different perspective on York’s past.
Bottom line: Ideal for those interested in the eerie side of history with a humorous and theatrical approach.
7. Yorkshire Dales Tour from York
At $119.80, the Yorkshire Dales Tour takes you into the heart of Yorkshire’s stunning landscapes. Highlights include Bolton Castle, Aysgarth Waterfalls, and a visit to the Wensleydale Creamery, famous for its cheese. The guide, John S., is praised for his knowledge and storytelling. Guests love the scenic stops and the chance to see classic Dales scenery with rolling hills and grazing sheep. The tour is perfect for nature lovers, photography buffs, and cheese aficionados. The only downside might be the length—long day, but packed with memorable sights.
Bottom line: Best suited for those who want a scenic escape filled with iconic Yorkshire sights.
8. Fun, Flexible Treasure Hunt Around York with Cryptic Clues & Hidden Gems
For $32.93, this self-guided Treasure Hunt is perfect for the adventurous, tech-savvy traveler. Using your smartphone, you solve cryptic clues while exploring York’s streets and alleys, discovering facts and hidden corners you might miss on traditional tours. It’s a flexible, interactive way to see the city at your own pace, making it great for families or groups who want to combine sightseeing with a fun challenge. Reviewers note the clues can be tricky, so plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time.
Bottom line: An engaging, customizable way to uncover York’s secrets on your own terms.
9. York Dungeon Entry Ticket
For $27.48, the York Dungeon offers an immersive experience into York’s darker history. Prebooked tickets save time and grant access to live shows, rides, and interactive exhibits exploring figures like Guy Fawkes and Dick Turpin. The reviews confirm its entertainment value, with many mentioning the engaging, sometimes spooky, storytelling. It’s great for families, thrill-seekers, and anyone curious about York’s more sinister tales. The attraction lasts about 1 to 2 hours, making it an exciting, if slightly intense, addition to any historical itinerary.
Bottom line: A fun, theatrical history lesson wrapped in spooky storytelling.
10. Time Traveller’s Walking Tour of York – Morning Tour
This 1 hour 15-minute Time Traveller’s Tour is for those eager to experience York’s history from Roman times through the Black Death. It covers landmarks such as Clifford’s Tower and the Shambles, with a focus on storytelling that brings the past alive. The guide’s enthusiasm and the chance to take photos make it a favorite, especially for families and history buffs. Guests appreciate the added touch of earning a souvenir trophy. The tour is well-reviewed for its engaging narrative and manageable length.
Bottom line: A lively, compact introduction perfect for first-timers and history lovers.
11. York Walls Private Walking Tour
Costing $89.51, the York Walls Private Tour offers a customized experience exploring the medieval city walls. The tour can include visits to York Castle, the Shambles, or the Minster, according to your interests. The private guide ensures a personalized, flexible experience. Highlights include spectacular views of the city and insights into how the walls protected York for nearly 2000 years. Guests love the adaptability and the detailed explanations. It’s ideal for travelers who want a tailored experience and the opportunity to explore at their own pace.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a private, customizable tour with in-depth stories.
12. City Sightseeing York Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
At $23.34, this Bus Tour offers maximum flexibility with 20 stops around York’s main sights, including Clifford’s Tower and Museum Gardens. The open-top bus provides commentary and the freedom to hop on or off whenever you like within a 24-hour window. It’s a practical choice if you want to see many sights without walking or if your time is limited. Reviewers mention how convenient it is to access top attractions from the bus stops.
Bottom line: A practical option for those with limited time or mobility, offering a rundown in a day.
13. Histories Forbidden Chronicles early evening tour
At $17.16, the Forbidden Chronicles offers a 1.5-hour horror-themed walk that reveals dark secrets and strange tales from York’s past. Led by a lively guide, it covers stories from castle horrors to pestilence, with stops like Victoria Bar and Baile Hill. The reviews highlight its engaging narration and spooky humor, making it suitable for those interested in mystery and macabre tales. It’s a different way to experience the city after dark, perfect for fans of ghost stories and supernatural lore.
Bottom line: An entertaining, slightly spooky night tour that appeals to history and horror fans alike.
14. Original Harry Potter Locations Tour : Guided Tour of York
For $19.22, this Harry Potter Locations Tour is tailored for film fans. It guides you through York’s filming locations with trivia, group challenges, and reenactments. While it’s a misconception that actual Harry Potter scenes were filmed in York, the tour highlights iconic spots that inspired the stories. Guides like Ellie are praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge, making it a fun, interactive experience.
Bottom line: A lively, game-filled tour for Potter fans eager to explore York’s connection to the wizarding world.
15. J & M York City Walking Tours
Finally, J & M York City Tours at $16.47 offers a comprehensive walk through York’s history, covering Robert the Bruce, Oliver Cromwell, and Constantine the Great. The 2-hour experience combines historical storytelling with visits to the city walls, the Shambles, and York Minster. It’s praised for its engaging guides and thorough coverage of York’s past. It’s a good pick for travelers interested in a balanced mix of history and sightseeing without rushing.
Bottom line: A reliable, in-depth tour suitable for history enthusiasts.
How to Choose the Perfect Tour in York
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you have. If you’re traveling with kids or want a magical experience, the Wizard Walk is a standout. For a quick overview, the Small Group York Walk offers a relaxed, comprehensive introduction. History buffs or those craving a private experience should consider the York Walls Private Tour, while scenic explorers will love the Yorkshire Dales Tour. Families or groups with limited time might find the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus to be the most practical.
For adventure and a bit of scare, the York Dungeon or Forbidden Chronicles offer thrilling options. Film and Harry Potter fans will enjoy the interactive Locations Tour. Remember to book early, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time and experience.
York’s rich tapestry of tours ensures that whether you’re after family fun, history, scenery, or spooky stories, you’ll find the right adventure. For a balanced mix of history and fun, the Best of York on Foot is hard to beat. If you want to indulge your love of magic, the Wizard Walk offers a unique, family-friendly twist. And those seeking a full-day escape into the countryside should consider the North York Moors and Whitby Tour. Whatever your style, booking ahead guarantees a memorable visit to this historic city.