Embark on a journey through London's vibrant and historic city with my expertly curated list of the best tours of London, England. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, London offers plenty of attractions and hidden gems waiting to be explored.
This city has something for everyone, from iconic landmarks like the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace to lesser-known treasures tucked away in winding alleys.
London tours are worth it if you choose the right one for your needs. Join a guided tour of London and delve into London's rich history and culture as knowledgeable guides share fascinating stories about the city's past and present. Discover the secrets of the Royal Family, wander through picturesque neighborhoods, and immerse yourself in the diverse culinary scene in this incredible city.
Unravel with me the mysteries of ancient legends and explore the latest contemporary art exhibitions.
With my carefully selected list, you can choose from various tours in London that cater to different interests, ensuring a truly personalized experience. Prepare to embark on an unforgettable adventure through the best tours in London. Let the exploration begin!
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Top Attractions in London
London is a city that boasts a superabundance of world-renowned attractions. That is why I spent two weeks exploring London during my first visit. From historical landmarks to modern marvels, there is no shortage of things to see and do.
There is so much to see in London that you might need to move here as I did to see them all.
The Tower of London, for example, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. This medieval fortress has stood on the banks of the River Thames for over 900 years and offers a glimpse into the city's turbulent past.
Another iconic attraction is Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch, which you can visit every summer. Witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony and marvel at the gloriousness of the palace's architecture.
For art lovers, the Tate Modern is a must-see (but you must like modern art; otherwise, leave it, and use your time to see something you want to see). Housed in a former power station, this contemporary art museum showcases works from renowned artists worldwide.
If you wish to see many attractions in London and save money, don't forget to check out Go City London, the all-inclusive pass that makes you save up to 50% on London attractions. Check it out!
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Hidden Gems in London
While London's top attractions are undoubtedly impressive, the city is also home to numerous hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Explore the charming neighborhood of Notting Hill, known for its colorful houses and vibrant Portobello Road Market. Stroll through Hampstead Heath, a vast green space offering stunning views of the city skyline (one of my favorites and where Lajos took me on our first date in 2018, we went for a gelato at Oddono's and then for a walk at Kenwood House).
If you love reading, take the chance to visit the British Library. This national library houses over 170 million items, including historical manuscripts, rare books, and even the Magna Carta.
Head to Neal's Yard, a hidden courtyard tucked away in Covent Garden, and discover a colorful oasis filled with cafes, shops, and organic skincare products at Neal's Yard Shop (if you have never heard of them, you should check them out).
Travel Tip: As soon as you book your next adventure, buy good travel insurance in case you need to "unfortunately" delay, extend or cancel your trip. I recommend VisitorsCoverage for short trips and SafetyWing to stay longer than a month.
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Factors to Consider When Choosing a Tour in London, England
When choosing one of the top London tours, several factors must be considered to ensure you have the best possible experience.
Firstly, consider your interests and what you hope to gain from the tour. Are you interested in history, art, or cuisine? Understanding your preferences will help you narrow down your options.
Secondly, consider the duration and schedule of the tour. Some tours may last a few hours, while others can last half a day. Think about how much time you have available and how much you want to see and do.
Additionally, check the itinerary to ensure it aligns with your expectations.
It would be best if you also read the reviews, but I already did it for you.
All the tours of London in this list have the highest-rated reviews, so you don't have to worry about it; I personally selected only the best tours available!
European Travel Alert!
If you don't have a Europe passport, from November 2023, you must complete an ETIAS visa waiver form before your trip and pay the €7 ($7.25) fees. This easy-to-complete form should give you instant approval, but it's recommended that travelers plan and submit their documents a few weeks in advance of their departure date.
Benefits of Taking a Travel Tour in London City
Opting for a travel tour in London comes with several benefits.
You'll be able to learn from knowledgeable guides who can provide valuable insights and stories about the city. They can bring historical landmarks to life and offer a deeper understanding of London's culture and heritage.
Additionally, taking a tour eliminates the stress of planning and navigating the city (things that many travelers hate, so why don't you make your holiday easier? It's a holiday, after all).
The tour company handles all the logistics, including transportation, entrance fees, and reservations. This lets you fully immerse yourself in the experience without worrying about the details.
Travel tours also offer the chance to meet like-minded individuals worldwide. You can share your experiences, make new friends, and create lasting memories together, as I did on a day trip from London when I visited it for the first time in 2011. It's a fantastic way to connect with people who share your love for travel and exploration.
If you were wondering, I book a day trip from London to visit Windsor, Stonehenge, and Oxford.
Travel Tip: If you arrive in London too early for your check-in or your departure time is too many hours after your check-out, and you need a place to store your luggage, check out Radical Storage in London, a website that shows you all the safe places to keep your bags while exploring London.
How to Book the best tours of London, England
Booking a travel tour in London is a straightforward process.
Start by reading my list of the best tours in London, and under every tour description, there is a clickable button that will take you straight to the main page of the tour website.
There you will have all the extra information about that specific tour and the easiest way to book it before it gets sold out (remember that London is always in high demand, and tours get fully booked weeks in advance, so if you find something you like, book it today, most tours have a 24h cancellation policy).
Make sure to double-check the dates and details before confirming your booking.
Once you've selected your tours, make any necessary reservations in advance. Some tours may require booking a specific time slot, especially for popular attractions. Stay organized by keeping all your tour details, confirmations, and tickets in one place.
Planning Your Visit to London
Planning your travel in London involves careful consideration of logistics and timing. Start by determining the best time to visit London based on your preferences. Consider factors like weather (winter is cheaper and less crowded but can be very cold and rainy) and special events like Christmas.
Next, create a list of the London attractions and hidden gems in London that you want to explore. Doing this will help you to have a better idea about how many places you want to visit.
Once you know what you want to see and do in London, you know how much time you have left to add extra things to see and do, or you can first book your local London tours and then plan what to see before and after.
Some London tours happen only once or twice daily, so the time slot is limited.
Lastly, familiarize yourself with the London essential travel information, such as local customs, transportation options, and safety tips. London is a bustling city, and being prepared will ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip (and this must be your final goal, after all, we all expect to have a wonderful time when on holiday).
Now, let's dive into the top travel tours in London. I have carefully selected these tours to offer diverse experiences catering to different interests and preferences. Whether you're a history buff, a food lover, or an art enthusiast, there's a tour for you.
I divided this City of London Tours into sections:
Read The 23 Best Travel Tours in London
LET’S DIVE RIGHT IN...
Best Sightseeing Tours of London
1. Jack the Ripper Tour with 'Ripper-Vision' in London Review
Explore 19th-century Whitechapel and unravel the mystery of Jack the Ripper with RIPPER-VISION projectors and a knowledgeable guide.
Experience spine-tingling tales and conspiracies as you traverse through the dimly lit alleyways.
What's included: Professional guide
Starting point: 7.30 PM Whitechapel Gallery
Cancellation: up to 24 h
Duration: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Price: from £ 18,00
Travel Tip: A great way to have a tour of London by bus is by purchasing a London Big Bus Tours ticket. Experience the city's top sights and attractions quickly with this convenient and flexible tour option.
2. Best of London Sightseeing Tour 9 hours, Review
Experience the best of London's iconic landmarks on this day tour. Begin with a visit to the stunning St Paul's Cathedral and a photo opportunity at the historic Westminster Abbey. Witness Buckingham Palace's famous Changing of the Guard ceremony and explore the fascinating Tower of London.
Take in the breathtaking views of the city during an extended river sightseeing cruise, and for an extra special ending, upgrade your experience with a flight on the London Eye or indulge in a delightful cream tea at Harrods.
What's included: Admission tickets to the chosen attractions plus the chance to add some extra, friendly professional guide and air-conditioned vehicle
Starting point: 7.30 AM Victoria Coach Station
Cancellation: up to 24 h
Duration: 9 hours
Price: from £ 123,00
See more London sightseeing tours and book the perfect one for your trip to London!
3. Night Photography Tour in London Review
Take a leisurely walk across the Thames, exploring the north and south banks, and marvel at landmarks such as the London Eye and Tower Bridge.
Don't miss the chance to capture the magical atmosphere of London after dark with a professional photographer who will help you set up your camera or phone in case you need help.
What's included: Photography E-Guidebook and tour and group photos
Starting point: Caffe Nero at Westminster Station
Cancellation: up to 24 h
Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Price: from £ 110,00
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4. Best of London Day Tour Review
On a half-day walking tour, experience the best of London's iconic landmarks and attractions. Join a small group to witness the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony at St. James's Palace, pass by Buckingham Palace, and explore the historic Westminster Abbey and Houses of Parliament.
Have a traditional pub lunch, and visit St. Paul's Cathedral.
What's included: lunch, private transportation, and all fees and taxes
Starting point: 10.00 AM Trafalgar Square
Cancellation: up to 24h
Duration: 6 hours
Price: from £ 195,00
Travel Tip: If you prefer to walk around London while listening to an audio guide, you should check out the best London Audio Guide here.
5. City of London Tour Review
Explore the vibrant contemporary art and architecture of the City of London on this guided tour. Marvel at the stunning modern art galleries and museums nestled within the Barbican.
Take a leisurely stroll through the historic Leadenhall Market, which dates back to the 14th century. Immerse yourself in the bustling financial district of Castle Baynard and discover the rich history and influential figures that have shaped this iconic city.
What's included: An artist's insight into contemporary London
Starting point: 9.00 AM Monument to the Great Fire of London
Cancellation: up to 24 h
Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Price: from £ 205,00
6. London literary tour and creative writing workshop Review
Embark on a literary adventure through the streets of London with an expert guide who is not only an award-winning novelist but also holds a Ph.D. in Creative Writing.
These unique tours are tailored to cater to all levels of writing expertise, whether you're a beginner or an aspiring novelist. Immerse yourself in London's vibrant literary history and engage in writing exercises to ignite your creativity and inspire your storytelling.
What's included: Bottled water.
Starting point: Bunhill Fields Burial Ground
Cancellation: up to 24 h
Duration: 3 hours
Price: from £ 85,00
7. Greenwich Peninsula Day Tour Review
A fun & eco-friendly way to enjoy the amazing Greenwich Peninsula, explore the surrounding areas, admire the stunning architecture and panoramic views, and end your tour tasting some local beer at the Meantime Brewery.
What's included: Ride the IFS Cloud Cable Car across the Thames with its stunning views of the O2, Visit historic Trinity Buoy Wharf with London's only lighthouse, visit the Meantime Brewery, and taste some free beer.
Starting point: 9.30 AM Peninsula Spire located outside the North Greenwich Tube station
Cancellation: up to 24h
Duration: 6 hours and 30 minutes
Price: from £ 195,00
There are many places to visit in Greenwich, like the Cutty Sark, a historic sailing ship that, with a special ticket, you can also climb the rig.
You can get a Royal Museum Greenwich Day Pass to see the Royal Observatory, the Cutty Sark, the National Maritime Museum, and the Queen's House.
8. Historical London Walking Tour in Westminster & Churchill War Rooms Review
Experience the fascinating history of World War II with a captivating tour of the Churchill War Rooms in London's Westminster.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, delve into the immersive and emotionally impactful journey through this significant historical site.
What's included: Entrance Ticket and reservation fee, audio guide and map for the Churchill War Rooms, a guided walking tour of Westminster Area
Starting point: Victoria Embankment
Cancellation: up to 24 h
Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Price: from £ 63,00
Want to see where Prince William married the lovely Kate? Then, don't miss visiting the famous Westminster Abbey, an unmissable experience in London.
9. London Rock Legends Tour Review
Explore London's vibrant rock 'n' roll scene with a guided tour of the city's iconic music landmarks. Let your knowledgeable guide take you to legendary clubs, famous hotels, and record labels that have played a significant role in the history of rock 'n' roll.
Explore the stomping grounds of music legends like The Beatles, Jimmy Page, and Bill Wyman, and immerse yourself in London's rich musical heritage.
What's included: professional guide, transport by air-conditioned coach
Starting point: 1.30 PM Duke of York Monument
Cancellation: up to 24 h
Duration: 3 hours and 30 minutes
Price: from £ 67,00
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10. London: Half-Day Street Art Tour and Workshop Review
Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of street art with a unique 4-hour workshop and walking tour in London's East End. Explore the streets and alleys adorned with incredible street art.
After the inspiring tour, unleash your creativity in a hands-on workshop where you'll learn the art of spray painting and create your very own masterpiece to take home.
What's included: 2-hour street art tour, 1.5-hour workshop, tuition and all materials
Starting point: outside Old Spitalfields Market
Cancellation: up to 24 h
Duration: 4 hours
Price: from £ 45,00
11. Discover Shoreditch: London's Coolest Neighborhood Review
Experience the vibrant neighborhood of Shoreditch in London like a local with a personalized tour. Book a private meet-up with a local Londoner who will show you the best places to go, what to see, and what to do based on your interests.
What's included: pick up from your accommodation, a local guide
Starting point: Shoreditch
Cancellation: up to 24 h
Duration: personalize tour of 2-3-4 hours
Price: from £ 75,00
Are you feeling hungry after all this exploration? Don't miss the Shoreditch Street Food Tour!
12. Top 30 Sights Tour and Sherlock Holmes Museum
Are you a Sherlock Holmes fan? Then don't miss this tour of London's most iconic landmarks and immerse yourself in the world of Sherlock Holmes at the Sherlock Holmes Museum. Discover the intriguing history and mysteries behind the famous London detective and his legendary adventures.
What's included: a walking tour to the 30 most famous sights in London and an entrance ticket to the museum
Starting point: Green Park Underground Train Station
Cancellation: up to 24 h
Duration: 4 hours
Price: from £ 64,00
If you fancy playing like a detective, remember there is a Sherlock Holmes City Exploration Game in London. Book it before it gets sold out!
Transports in London Tours
13. Landmarks & Gems: London Bike Ride + Historic Pub + Graffiti Review
Join a small-group bike tour around central London on a classic English Pashley bicycle. See iconic landmarks, including Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and the London Eye.
Explore the backstreets and street art of Banksy, and even try creating your own graffiti tag.
What's included: Hand-built British bicycle, local English-speaking guide, helmet or tweed cap (optional), luggage storage, spray paint at the graffiti zone, and 10% off drinks at the local pub after your tour.
Starting point: The Walrus Bar & Hostel
Cancellation: up to 24 h
Duration: 3 hours and 30 minutes
Price: from £ 45,00
14. London by Night Sightseeing Tour Review
Discover the magic of London at night on a sightseeing tour aboard a double-decker bus. As you journey through the city, Marvel at the illuminated landmarks such as Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye.
Your knowledgeable guide will share interesting facts about the sites you pass and provide insider recommendations on must-visit places in the vibrant capital city.
What's included: Live commentary on board
Starting point: Green Park bus stop
Cancellation: up to 24 h
Duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Price: from £ 29,00
15. The London Dinner Cruise on the Thames River Review
Indulge in a 4-course meal while taking in the breathtaking views of iconic London landmarks such as the Tower of London, the London Eye, and Tower Bridge, all beautifully illuminated at night with live music.
It's a truly unforgettable experience combining fine dining, scenic views, and entertainment.
What's included: Pre-cruise glass of sparkling wine or soft drink, 4-course dinner, live performer, and dancing till late.
Starting point: Westminster Pier at 7.45 PM
Cancellation: up to 4 days in advance
Duration: 3 hours
Price: from £ 75,00
There are plenty of River Thames Cruises to choose from, from daytime cruises to lunch or dinner cruises to afternoon tea cruises. Have a look at all the River Thames Cruises available in London.
London Drinks & Food Tours
16. London Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours Review
Experience London's food scene with a culinary tour. Try classic British dishes on the London Bridge tour or explore hidden gems on the SoHo tour.
What's included: food and drinks
Starting point: depends on the tour you choose
Cancellation: up to 24 h
Duration: 3 hours and 30 minutes
Price: from £ 85,00
17. Small-Group Tour: Historical Pub Walking Tour of London Review
Join a guided afternoon pub crawl in London to explore historic pubs, literary hangouts, and local drinking customs.
Enjoy a variety of beverages at a minimum of four distinct locations (at your own cost).
What's included: a local guide
Starting point: outside St Paul's underground station
Cancellation: up to 24 h
Duration: 3 hours and 30 minutes
Price: from £ 25,00
This is only one of the many Pub tours available in London. If you love beer and want to meet other travelers while drinking the night away in some of the oldest pubs in London, you should check out all the London Pub Crawls available!
18. The Kensington Palace Gardens Royal High Tea Review
Enjoy a quintessentially British high tea at Kensington Palace while strolling through Prince Albert's curated gardens and learning about Britain's beloved drink from your guide.
What's included: Tea, sandwiches, and cakes at the Pavilion of Kensington Palace with a fun knowledgeable guide
Starting point: outside of Queensway Underground Station
Cancellation: not refundable
Duration: 2 hours
Price: from £ 99,00
Museums & Attractions Tours in London
19. London British Museum Expert Guided Tour Review
The British Museum is the largest in the UK and is home to a vast collection of art and artifacts from around the globe. Take a guided tour of this historic museum and immerse yourself in the wonders of ancient civilizations.
What's included: A tour with a guide at the British Museum, headsets for more than six people live tour guide, admire the spectacular glass roof of the Great Court, go to the Ancient Egypt galleries to see the large collection of Egyptian mummies.
Starting point: Senate House
Cancellation: up to 24 h
Duration: 2 hours
Price: from £ 59,80
20. Emirates Stadium and Arsenal Museum Entrance Ticket, Including Audio Guide Review
Tour Emirates Stadium and Arsenal Museum with an audio guide. Hear from former Arsenal goalkeeper Bob Wilson as you explore areas like the players’ tunnel and changing rooms.
Finish off at Arsenal Museum to see trophies and jerseys of iconic former teammates.
What's included: Audio guide Museum entry Experience the new Emirates Stadium Tour Access to behind-the-scenes areas of the stadium such as the Players' Entrance, dressing Rooms, dead coach’s office, players tunnel, pitch side, home dugout, etc. Choose commentary from Lee Dixon, Charlie George, or Nigel Mitchell.
Starting point: Emirates Stadium, multiple scheduled times
Cancellation: not refundable
Duration: from 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours
Price: from £ 30,00
21. VIP Early Access - Opening Ceremony Tower of London & Bridge with Crown Jewels
Explore the Tower of London and Tower Bridge on a 3-hour walking tour. Watch the Beefeaters' opening ceremony, see the Crown Jewels, and learn about the history of the White Tower.
Finish at the Tower Bridge Exhibition for stunning views and captivating stories.
What's included: enter the Tower of London before opening time, meet the Chief Beefeater for a private welcome to the Tower of London & Opening Ceremony, visit it without the usual crowds, and visit the Tower Bridge exhibition.
Starting point: Tower Hill Underground Station early
Duration: 3 hours
Price: from £ 115,00
If you only wish to visit the Tower of London without the special hours opening and the Tower Bridge exhibition, you should only book the Tower of London tickets and save money!
22. Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter with Transportation Review
Discover the magical world of Harry Potter at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London.
See the sets, props, and costumes from the films, including Diagon Alley and the Great Hall. Transportation from the city is provided for your convenience.
What's included: entrance to Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, return transportation on a double-decker branded bus
Starting point: Bus Stop 1, Bulleid Way, Victoria, London
Cancellation: up to 5 days in advance
Duration: 8 hours
Price: from £ 94,50
If you love Harry Potter, this is an unmissable experience. I went to the Harry Potter Warner Bros Studios in London during Christmas and it was unbelievabe good! Lajos bought the tickets for me as a Christmas gift and he bought them in August.
So, if you wish to visit it, you better buy the tickets as soon as possible because they tend to get sold out months in advance.
23. Total London Experience + London Eye, Tower of London, St Paul's Review
See London's top sights on a full-day tour with a Thames River cruise and a ride on the London Eye.
Visit St. Paul's Cathedral, the Tower of London, and Buckingham Palace for the Changing of the Guard ceremony. Witness the Crown Jewels and enjoy stunning city views from a comfortable coach.
What's included: admission to the Tower of London, St. Paul's Cathedral Panoramic Tour, London Thames River Boat Ride, London Eye Experience, and transportation.
Starting point: 8 AM, Stop 8, Buckingham Palace Road, Victoria, London
Cancellation: up to 24 h
Duration: 9 hours
Price: from £ 154,00
If you only wish to visit the London Eye, I highly recommend you purchase the London Eye Fast-Track Entrance to avoid having to stay in a queue for up to 1 hour and waste time you could spend having fun exploring London.
Travel Tips: Remember to download the wonderful app Citymapper, which will show you all the possible ways to reach every corner of London, transport prices, and much more.
Conclusion: Why You Should Book a London Tour
Booking a travel tour in London is the perfect way to make the most of your time in this vibrant city.
With expert guides leading the way, you'll better understand London's history, culture, and hidden treasures.
Each tour offers an immersive experience, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems.
You can ensure a personalized and unforgettable journey through London by choosing a tour that aligns with your interests.
Leave the planning and logistics to the professionals, allowing you to focus on exploring and creating lasting memories.
So, choose your tour, book it before it gets fully booked, and prepare to embark on an adventure through the top travel tours in London. The city awaits, ready to captivate and inspire you at every turn. Let the exploration begin!
More London travel resources:
Learn all the tips & info before visiting London by checking my “The Most Complete Guide to London“ as well as these popular articles:
BOOK YOUR TRIP TO LONDON: My Tips & Tricks
Psst! I use these websites to find the cheapest prices:
Activities in London:
Viator and Get Your Guide are my go-to search engine for city tours, museum tickets, and attractions at the best price. Go City London is an all-inclusive pass to save up to 50% on London attractions.
To explore the city by yourself, We Go Trip offers audio guides to download on your phone, while Take Walks offers many guided tours.
Multiple day trips from London:
To book more than a 1-day trip, TourRadar is an excellent website where you can find private, group, and tailor-made multi-day organized adventures in 160+ countries worldwide.
How to move around England:
To move between cities, Trainline and Omio are websites to book bus and train tickets, while EconomyBookings is excellent for finding the cheapest car rental deals.
Need extra help?
Radical Storage in London is to find luggage storage while you explore the city, and never forget to buy extra data with Airalo.
Your super-organized travel blogger
Xoxo Valentina
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