London is one of the most exciting places to experience Christmas. Its streets glow with thousands of lights, window displays dazzle, and festive markets buzz with holiday cheer. Whether you want a quick glimpse of London’s iconic landmarks or a private tour that customizes the experience, this city offers a Christmas event for everyone. One of our favorites is the London by Night Bus Tour with Christmas Lights and Live Guide—a fantastic way to see the city’s glittering streets from an open-top bus with lively commentary. For a more personalized experience, the London Christmas Lights Private Tour by Traditional Black Cab lets you hop into a classic London taxi for a tailored adventure. And if you love combining scenery with storytelling, the Christmas Carol & Charles Dickens Small Group Walking Tour immerses you in London’s Dickensian past. Each experience offers a unique way to soak up festive London, and we’ve ranked the very best for your holiday season.
Quick Overview
This list covers a broad variety of Christmas tours and experiences in London. You’ll find guided bus tours that capture London’s iconic landmarks illuminated at night, walking tours that explore decorated neighborhoods and markets, private black cab experiences for a tailored tour, and even bike rides through festive streets. Some tours include special touches like mulled wine or Christmas market visits, making them perfect for families or couples. For a detailed look at the different options, check out the full range below.
1. London by Night Bus Tour with Christmas Lights and Live Guide
At number 1, this open-top bus tour offers a lively way to see London’s famous landmarks aglow with holiday lights. The 1.5-hour tour takes you past Buckingham Palace, Tower of London, and St. Paul’s Cathedral, all illuminated during the Christmas season. The onboard live guide shares stories and fun facts, making it more engaging than just staring at pretty lights. The panoramic views and festive atmosphere make it a top choice for those short on time. Plus, since you’re not driving, you can really relax and enjoy the scenery. Several reviewers highlight how magical the experience is, especially on a chilly December night. Keep in mind, admission to the London Eye isn’t included, but the views from the bus are often just as spectacular. This tour is perfect for anyone who wants a quick, lively overview of London’s Christmas splendor.
Bottom Line: A fun, accessible way to see London’s Christmas lights with lively commentary—great for a holiday evening.
2. London Christmas Lights Guided Tour With Christmas Music
Number 2 on our list is a walking tour with a twist—a silent disco guided walk through London’s most dazzling Christmas displays. This 2-hour experience takes you past Oxford Street, Neal’s Yard, Carnaby Street, and Leicester Square, all dressed up for Christmas. What sets this apart is the use of personal headphones, so you can enjoy festive music and intriguing stories about local traditions without noise interference. Guests rave about how much fun they had, with some mentioning how it’s a wonderful way to see London with family or friends. Optional mulled wine upgrades make the evening even cozier. It’s ideal if you prefer to explore on foot, take photos, and enjoy the lively street scenes at your own pace.
Bottom Line: A lively, musical way to experience London’s holiday lights that’s perfect for small groups seeking a personalized touch.
3. London Christmas Lights Private Tour by Traditional Black Cab
Number 3 offers an intimate, flexible way to see London’s Christmas lights on a private black cab tour. For around $548, up to six people can cruise through neighborhoods like Belgravia, Chelsea, and Oxford Street, with stops to explore the most decorated streets. Your driver-guide shares the history behind the lights and the neighborhoods, making it both entertaining and educational. Guests particularly enjoy the hassle-free hotel pickup and the ability to hop out for photos or to stroll around a favorite area. Many reviews mention how personalized and accommodating the tour was, with guides making sure everyone gets enough time at each stop. It’s especially suited for families or groups who want a relaxed, private experience.
Bottom Line: A luxurious, customizable way to enjoy London’s Christmas lights with private attention and flexible timing.
4. Christmas Lights and Markets Guided Walking Tour with Mulled Wine
Number 4 is a stroll through London’s festive markets and light displays, capped with a warming glass of mulled wine. Starting in Covent Garden, you’ll browse craft stalls, street performers, and beautiful decorations. From there, the tour takes in Neal’s Yard, Seven Dials, Cecil Court, and Trafalgar Square, all aglow for Christmas. The 1.5-hour tour emphasizes the atmosphere of London’s holiday season, with the guide sharing stories of Victorian customs and traditions. Guests enjoy the small group size—just 10 travelers—for a more personal experience. The inclusion of mulled wine adds a cozy touch to this lively walk through London’s most iconic holiday sights.
Bottom Line: A warm, festive walk that combines Christmas markets, lights, and stories, ideal for those wanting a cozy, social experience.
5. London Christmas Lights Guided Tour by Cab
Number 5 features a private cab tour of London’s best Christmas lights. For about $405, up to six people enjoy a 3-hour journey past Oxford Street, Regent Street, Trafalgar Square, and more. Your driver-guide shares insight into the history of the lights and neighborhoods, with stops to get out and snap photos. Guests love how flexible and personalized this experience is, especially since the itinerary can be tailored to your interests. Many reviews highlight the convenience of a private tour, with a knowledgeable driver making sure everyone sees the highlights. It’s perfect for a family or group wanting a relaxed, customized adventure.
Bottom Line: A private, flexible way to explore London’s sparkling Christmas neighborhoods at your own pace.
6. London Christmas Lights Bike Tour with Local Guide
Number 6 is a 3-hour bike tour that takes you through London’s most holiday-decorated districts. Pedal past Oxford Street, Harrods, Hyde Park, and Regent Street while soaking in the festive scenery. The small group size and provided helmets and Santa hats make this a fun, active way to enjoy Christmas sights. Reviewers mention how the guided commentary and the ability to stop for photos make this a memorable experience. The tour ends at South Bank’s Christmas market, perfect for some last-minute shopping. It’s ideal for active travelers or those wanting a different perspective on London’s holiday decorations.
Bottom Line: A lively, energetic way to see London’s Christmas lights, especially suited for those who like exploring on two wheels.
7. London Christmas Carol & Charles Dickens Small Group Walking Tour
Number 7 takes you back in time with a small group walking tour inspired by Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.” Visiting sites like Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese and the Royal Exchange, you’ll see where Dickens drew inspiration and walk through historic London districts. The guide shares stories of Dickens’s life and works, bringing the city’s Dickensian past alive. With only a small group, the experience becomes personal and engaging. A highlight is the chance to visit a 13th-century pub Dickens frequented. Many reviewers praise how the storytelling makes London’s Christmas atmosphere come alive. This tour is perfect for literature lovers and history buffs alike.
Bottom Line: An immersive Dickensian experience blending literature, history, and festive London.
8. London Christmas Lights Guided Walking Tour
Number 8 is a 2-hour guided walk through central London’s most dazzling displays. Starting from Covent Garden, the tour visits Trafalgar Square, Regent Street, Burlington Arcade, and Bond Street. The guide shares stories about London’s Christmas traditions and the history behind each light display. Guests appreciate how walking allows for stopping to admire details and take photos. The small group size makes it more personal, and the evening timing captures the full magic of the lights after dark. It’s also a good choice for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with learning about holiday customs.
Bottom Line: A concise, informative stroll perfect for those wanting a guided immersion in London’s festive lighting.
9. London Private Christmas Lights Taxi Tour with Pick Up
Number 9 offers a private, customizable taxi tour for up to six people, lasting about 3 hours. You’ll travel in a classic black cab, with your driver-guide taking you past Oxford Street, Regent Street, Covent Garden, and more. The flexibility allows you to focus on your favorite neighborhoods or sights. Guests love the hassle-free hotel pickup and the chance to hop out and explore at stops. Many reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guide’s ability to adapt the tour to interests, making this ideal for families and groups who want a tailored experience. It’s especially good if you want to combine sightseeing, shopping, and holiday photo stops.
Bottom Line: A private, fully customizable experience suited for groups seeking a relaxed, personalized tour.
10. London Christmas Lights Private Guided Taxi Tour
Number 10 features another private black cab experience, focusing on iconic sights like Oxford Street and Regent Street. The 3-hour tour includes hotel pickup and stops at Trafalgar Square and Covent Garden. The driver-guide shares stories about each location and the history of London’s Christmas traditions. Many visitors mention how the private experience allows for relaxed pace, with plenty of time for photos and exploring. It’s perfect for travelers who want a flexible, intimate experience with expert commentary.
Bottom Line: An easy, private way to see London’s best Christmas displays at your own pace.
11. 3-Hour Christmas Lights and Markets London Taxi Tour
Number 11 is a private taxi tour that combines Christmas lights and markets across London, lasting about three hours. The route includes popular sites like Oxford Street and Regent Street, with stops for photos. Reviewers appreciate the personal insights from the driver, making the experience richer. It’s an excellent way to see both decorated streets and lively markets without the hassle of public transport. The small group size ensures a relaxed pace, perfect for families or couples.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, flexible experience blending festive lights with lively markets for a full holiday vibe.
12. London Bespoke Black Cab Christmas Lights & Sights Private Tour
Number 12 is a completely personalized black cab tour designed for up to six people, lasting around 4 hours. Your driver-guide takes you past lesser-known decorated streets along with famous displays like Harrods. The tour’s flexibility lets you create an itinerary that matches your interests, from shopping districts to historic sites. Guests love how the private nature allows for spontaneous stops and in-depth stories about the city’s holiday traditions. This is excellent for travelers who want to explore at their own pace with a knowledgeable guide.
Bottom Line: A highly customizable, in-depth private experience perfect for groups seeking a tailored Christmas tour.
13. A Christmas Carol and Charles Dickens Old London Walking Tour
Number 13 immerses you in the world of Dickens with a personalized walking tour focusing on sites associated with “A Christmas Carol.” The guide takes you through historic districts, pubs, and landmarks Dickens knew, bringing his stories to life. Highlights include visiting the Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese pub and the Royal Exchange. Reviewers say this tour makes Dickens’ London feel real, especially with storytelling that captures the festive spirit. It’s ideal for literature lovers or anyone wanting a historical, literary twist on holiday sightseeing.
Bottom Line: A literary walk that makes Dickens’ London and Christmas stories feel alive.
14. London Exclusive Christmas Lights Guided Tour by Black Cab
Number 14 offers a private black cab experience lasting around four hours, focusing on top decorated streets like Oxford Street, Bond Street, and Regent Street. The driver-guide tailors the route to your interests, with stops to explore and take photos. Many reviews highlight the convenience of hotel pickup and the ability to visit lesser-known spots. This tour is great for travelers who want a relaxed, flexible, and intimate look at London’s best Christmas displays.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, private, flexible way to enjoy London’s holiday lights with expert commentary.
15. London Christmas Lights Private Walking Tour
Number 15 is a personalized walking tour perfect for small groups, with options for afternoon or evening. You’ll explore Covent Garden, Carnaby Street, and Trafalgar Square, stopping for photos and learning about London’s Christmas traditions. The guide’s personal attention and the ability to customize the route make it popular. Reviewers praise how this tour captures London’s festive spirit with stops at iconic locations. It’s ideal for those who prefer walking, want a relaxed pace, and enjoy individual attention.
Bottom Line: A flexible, personalized walking tour that covers London’s most famous Christmas sights in comfort.
How to Choose Your Perfect Christmas Tour
When selecting the right Christmas experience in London, consider your budget, how much time you want to spend, and whether you prefer guided walking, private chauffeur, or a group adventure. For a quick overview, the London by Night Bus Tour offers a lively, scenic introduction. If you want a more intimate and customizable experience, the private black cab tours are excellent, especially the Bespoke Black Cab for those who want to explore lesser-known streets. For a family-friendly, active option, the bike tour adds fun and movement. And for lovers of Dickens, the literary walking tour offers a nostalgic journey.
Booking early is recommended, as Christmas in London is a popular time, and tours fill quickly. Think about your interests—whether it’s the lights, markets, historic sites, or literature—and choose accordingly. Combining options, like a guided walking tour during the day followed by a private cab can give a fuller picture of London’s festive spirit.
Final Thoughts
From lively bus rides to private taxis, London offers a variety of Christmas tours that cater to different interests and comfort levels. For spectacular views and quick sightseeing, the London by Night Bus Tour is perfect. For those wanting a personalized, cozy experience, the Black Cab tours shine. Literature fans should not miss the Charles Dickens walking tour, which makes the city’s Christmas past come alive. No matter which you choose, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on one of the most magical times to visit London.