London Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour – tickets, prices, top attractions

London, the capital city of England, is a vibrant and diverse metropolis with a rich history, iconic landmarks, cultural institutions, and a bustling atmosphere.

The London hop-on hop-off bus tour is a popular sightseeing option for visitors to the city. 

It allows you to explore the city’s major attractions at your own pace while enjoying the convenience of a hop-on hop-off service.

The routes often include stops near iconic sites like Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral, London Eye, and many more.

London truly has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, culture, shopping, or simply immersing yourself in the dynamic atmosphere of this global city.

This article shares everything you should know before buying tickets for London Hop On Hop Off Bus tour.

Top London Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours Ticket
# Big Bus Open-Top Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour
# Tootbus Must-See Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Cruise
# Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing-Tour
# London Eye, Big Bus, and Thames River Cruise
# The London Pass with Access to 90+ Attractions
# Go City Explorer Pass with 75+ Attractions
# Tootbus Hop-on Hop-off Tour + Thames River Cruise

HoHo London Big Bus

How Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off tour works

Watch the video to find out how the hop-on hop-off tour works.

The hop-on hop-off London is a popular sightseeing option that allows visitors to explore the city at their own pace.

The sightseeing HOHO bus tour typically operates in multiple ways that cover top attractions and landmarks in London.

The routes are designed to provide comprehensive city coverage, allowing tourists to visit popular destinations like Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, the British Museum, and more.

The routes are color-coded, each with designated stops.

To join the tour, you must purchase a ticket.

The London sightseeing bus tour starts at specific points near popular areas or landmarks, and you can join the tour at any of the starting points.

Once you’re on board, the bus will begin its journey along the designated route. 

You can stay on the bus for the full loop, listening to the informative audio commentary that details London’s sights and history. 

Alternatively, you can hop off at any stop that interests you and explore the area on foot.

When you hop off, you can explore the attractions, take photos, visit museums, grab a bite to eat, or shop around.

The hop-on hop-off bus in London provides pre-recorded audio commentary in multiple languages via headphones throughout the journey.


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Where to buy tickets for London Hop-on Hop-off bus tour

You can purchase tickets for the London hop-on hop-off bus tour online, the place where the bus tour starts (the main station), or each of the individual bus stops.

However, booking your tickets online is recommended to save the hassle of lining up and wasting time. 

Additionally, booking tickets online can help you get great discounts and offers.

Booking online also helps avoid last-minute disappointment and delays.

Go to the hop-on hop-off London ticket booking page, select your preferred date and the number of tickets, and buy the tickets right away.

After the purchase, you will receive the tickets in your email.

Best Hop-on Hop-off bus tours in London

London offers many kinds of sightseeing bus tours, and we have handpicked four of our favorites for you. 

We explain them below –

Big Bus Open-Top Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour

HoHo London Bus
Image: headout.com

Discover London’s famous landmarks by taking a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour. 

You can tour at your own pace.

Choose between 24-hour and 48-hour tickets and discover London via three specially-designed routes covering over 45 stops. 

Admire the scenery as you cruise the Thames River.

Immerse yourself in an interesting audio commentary in a choice of five languages.

Enjoy epic views of Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Abbey.

Ticket Prices

24-Hour Ticket with River Cruise

Adult ticket (16+ years): £41
Child ticket (5 to 15 years): £32

48-Hour Ticket, River Cruise and Guided Walking Tour

Adult ticket (16+ years): £50
Child ticket (5 to 15 years): £41

48-Hour Ticket, River Cruise, Walking Tour and Evening Tour

Adult ticket (16+ years): £59
Child ticket (5 to 15 years): £50

Open Top Panoramic Night Tour

Adult ticket (16+ years): £32
Child ticket (5 to 15 years): £23

Tootbus Must-See Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Cruise

With this 24, 48, or 72-hour pass, you may visit the London Eye and Buckingham Palace, among other renowned sights. 

Get access to self-guided walking tours as well as a Thames River Cruise.

On a hop on hop off bus in London explore the city at your own pace, taking in breathtaking views from land and water.

Use the free activity provider app with an M-ticket wallet, audio commentary, real-time bus tracking, and self-guided walking tours.

Your pass is valid for 24, 48, or 72 hours from the first validation, allowing you to hop on and off the bus as often as you want.

Ticket Prices

24-Hour Ticket

Adult ticket (16+ years): £36
Child ticket (5 to 15 years): £20
Infant ticket (up to 4 years): Free

48-Hour Ticket

Adult ticket (16+ years): £42
Child ticket (5 to 15 years): £25
Infant ticket (up to 4 years): Free

72-Hour Ticket

Adult ticket (16+ years): £48
Child ticket (5 to 15 years): £29
Infant ticket (up to 4 years): Free

Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing-Tour

Explore London on a double-decker bus trip that offers hop-on hop-off access to the city’s top attractions.

Enjoy a river cruise and optional walking tours when you purchase one of the multi-day packages.

Learn about the city’s history, culture, and architecture from onboard audio commentary and enjoy the panoramic views of the open-topped bus.

Visit all of London’s most important sights on a bus route with 36 stops, starting at Grosvenor Gardens and ending at Buckingham Palace. 

Purchase a 24, 48, or 72-hour ticket and enjoy a free cruise along the River Thames between Westminster Pier and Tower Pier.

Ticket Price

1 Day Ticket Hop-On Hop-Off Bus & Royal London Walking Tour

Adult ticket (16+ years): £37
Child ticket (5 to 15 years): £22
Infant ticket (up to 4 years): Free

24h Hop-on Hop-off Tour, River Cruise, & Royal London Walk

Adult ticket (16+ years): £42
Child ticket (5 to 15 years): £25
Infant ticket (up to 4 years): Free

48h Hop-on Hop-off Tour, River Cruise, & 5 Walks City Pass

Adult ticket (16+ years): £49
Child ticket (5 to 15 years): £29
Infant ticket (up to 4 years): Free

London Eye, Big Bus, and Thames River Cruise

A London sightseeing bus tour will give you the best views of the city and allow you to see the city at your own pace. 

Take the London Eye’s 360-degree views before embarking on a river cruise.

The greatest way to experience London’s top attractions, monuments, and sights is on this hop-on hop-off trip. 

You have unlimited access to the tour, which makes thoughtful stops at all the locations you want to see, such as Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, Westminster Abbey, Tower Bridge, and St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Popular starting points include the London Eye, Marble Arch, Victoria Station, and Trafalgar Square.

Ticket Price

Adult ticket (16+ years): £60
Child ticket (5 to 15 years): £54

Save time and money! Visit London’s top attractions with London Pass and Go City Explorer Pass. The London pass is valid for 1 – 10 days, and the Go City Explorer pass is for two months.


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Exploring London’s top attractions

HoHo London Sightseeing Bus
Image: headout.com

The London hop-on hop-off tour provides a convenient way to explore the city’s top attractions. 

Here are some of the must-visit sights that are covered on sightseeing HOHO bus tour:

Buckingham Palace: The official residence of the British monarch, Buckingham Palace is a significant landmark in London. Witness the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony and admire the magnificent architecture of the palace.

Tower of London: This historic castle on the banks of the River Thames has played various roles throughout history, including a royal palace, prison, and treasury. Explore its towers, see the Crown Jewels, and learn about its fascinating stories.

The British Museum: Home to a vast collection of art and artifacts from around the world, the British Museum is a treasure trove of history and culture. Discover ancient Egyptian mummies, the Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles, and countless other renowned exhibits.

St. Paul’s Cathedral: A masterpiece of architecture, St. Paul’s Cathedral is an iconic symbol of London. Climb to the top of the dome for panoramic city views, explore the grand interior, and learn about its historical significance.

Trafalgar Square: Located in the heart of London, Trafalgar Square is a bustling public square surrounded by iconic landmarks such as the National Gallery and Nelson’s Column. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, admire the fountains, and enjoy the city’s vibrant energy.

The Tower Bridge: One of London’s most recognizable landmarks, the Tower Bridge is an engineering marvel. Walk across its glass floor, visit the exhibition to learn about its construction, and enjoy panoramic city views from its high-level walkways.

The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben: Located along the River Thames, the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben (officially known as the Elizabeth Tower) form an impressive sight. Admire the Gothic architecture, take photos, and learn about the political history of the United Kingdom.

The London Eye: A giant Ferris wheel situated on the South Bank of the Thames, the London Eye offers breathtaking views of the city’s skyline. Enjoy a ride in one of the capsules and capture stunning panoramic photos of landmarks like the Shard, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Houses of Parliament.

Hyde Park: As one of London’s largest and most famous parks, Hyde Park provides a peaceful oasis in the city’s heart. Stroll, rent a paddleboat on the Serpentine Lake, or enjoy a picnic amidst the greenery.

Covent Garden: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, it is a popular destination for shopping, dining, and street performances. Explore the charming market, watch live entertainment, and soak in the lively ambiance.

These are just a few examples of the top attractions you can explore on the hop-on hop-off bus in London.


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Benefits of Hop-on Hop-off bus tour

The London sightseeing bus tour offers several benefits, making it a popular choice for visitors. 

Here are some of the key advantages of taking hop-on hop-off bus in London:

Flexibility: You can hop on and off the bus at any designated stop along the route, allowing you to visit the attractions that interest you the most. This flexibility is especially useful if you have limited time or want to customize your itinerary.

Comprehensive sightseeing: The Big Bus tour covers multiple routes that encompass major landmarks and attractions in London. Whether you’re interested in historic sites, iconic landmarks, renowned museums, or vibrant neighborhoods, the routes are designed to provide comprehensive coverage of the city’s highlights.

Informative audio commentary: The buses have pre-recorded audio commentary in multiple languages. As you ride along the routes, you can listen to the informative commentary that provides insights into the history, culture, and significance of the sights you pass by.

Stress-free transportation: The hop-on hop-off bus eliminates the need for navigating public transportation or dealing with taxis and traffic. You can board the bus at any designated stop and relax as it takes you to your desired destinations.

Scenic views: The open-top buses used in the tour provide an excellent vantage point to enjoy panoramic views of London’s iconic landmarks and picturesque streets. You can sit on the top deck and marvel at the city’s architecture, capturing memorable photos.

Hop-on hop-off convenience: The frequent bus service, usually every 10 to 20 minutes, ensures you don’t have to wait long for the next bus. You can hop off, spend as much time as you like at an attraction, and then easily hop back on the next bus when ready to move on to the next stop.

Interchangeability of routes: Some hop-on hop-off bus tours offer multiple routes that intersect at specific interchange stops. This interchangeability allows you to switch between routes, expanding your options for sightseeing.


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Insider tips for a memorable experience

HoHo London
Image: tripadvisor.com

Here are some insider tips for making the most of your London hop-on hop-off tour:

Plan your route: Take some time to study the different routes and stops offered by the bus tour. Identify the attractions and landmarks you’re most interested in visiting and plan your route accordingly.

Start early: To make the most of your day, start the tour early in the morning. This way, you can avoid the crowds and have more time at each stop before they get busy.

Take advantage of the audio commentary: The audio commentary provided on the bus offers valuable information about the sights and history of London. Listen attentively to learn interesting facts and stories about the landmarks you pass by.

Wear comfortable clothing: London’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s advisable to wear layers and bring a jacket or umbrella in case of rain. Additionally, wear comfortable shoes, as you may be doing some walking when you hop off at various stops. 

Consider off-peak hours: Plan your visits to popular attractions during off-peak hours. This can help you avoid long queues and overcrowding. Many attractions tend to be less busy in the early morning or late afternoon, providing a more enjoyable experience.

Take breaks: Exploring London can be tiring, so take breaks when needed. Take advantage of the bus ride to rest and recharge. Enjoy the views from the top deck, relax, and take in the city’s atmosphere.

Interact with the staff: The tour guides and staff on the bus are often knowledgeable about the city and can provide insider tips and recommendations. Feel free to ask questions, seek suggestions for lesser-known attractions, or get advice on local dining options.

Combine with other activities: The hop-on hop-off bus tour can be combined with other activities to enhance your experience. Consider adding a river cruise along the Thames, joining a walking tour, using your ticket for discounts at selected attractions, and more.

Remember, the key to a memorable experience is to be flexible, open to discoveries, and embrace the city’s unique charm.


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FAQs

Here are some questions travelers usually ask before taking London hop-on hop-off bus tour:

How does a hop-on hop-off bus tour work in London?

Hop-on hop-off bus tours allow you to get on and off the bus at designated London hop-on hop-off bus stops and explore important attractions. 

You can hop on and off the bus as often as you wish.

Those who want to tour the city’s top attractions have two options: stay on board for the entire route and enjoy a fascinating, gorgeous voyage, or get off at the destinations to explore more. 

However, that’s not the end of it. 

Tourists can easily continue their tour of the remaining locations by boarding the next bus.

How frequently do the buses run on the London hop-on hop-off bus tour?

The buses on London hop-on hop-off bus tours run every 15 to 30 minutes.

What are the popular routes and stops covered by the hop-on hop-off bus tour in London?

Some of the popular attractions covered on the hop-on hop-off London bus tour are:

Buckingham Palace
Tower of London
The British Museum
St. Paul’s Cathedral
Trafalgar Square
The Tower Bridge
The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben
The London Eye
Hyde Park
Covent Garden, and more.

Can I get off at any stop and rejoin the tour later?

You can get off the hop-on hop-off bus at any stop, explore the attraction, and get on the next bus to continue your journey.

Is the commentary available on the hop-on hop-off buses in multiple languages?

On most hop-on-hop-off buses, passengers can listen to pre-recorded commentary by expert tour guides, available in multiple languages, like Spanish, English, French, German, Italian.

The commentator narrates the city’s intriguing history, facts, figures, and stories about architecture and culture belonging to each landmark the bus passes through.

Can I purchase the hop-on hop-off bus tour ticket in advance, or is it available only on the day of the tour?

Yes, you can purchase hop-on hop-off London tickets online in advance; you can select your desired date and purchase tickets.

Purchasing tickets online in advance is useful during peak tourist seasons when tours can sell out quickly. 

Moreover, purchasing your ticket online can save time and avoid disappointment on the tour day. This also allows you to secure your spot and plan your itinerary.

Are the buses air-conditioned to provide comfort during the tour?

Yes, the hop-on hop-off buses in London are generally air-conditioned to comfort passengers during the tour. 

Some tour companies operate open-top double-decker buses so you can feel the wind blowing in your hair as the bus speeds down the city’s sleek roads.

Are there any restrictions on luggage or large bags on the hop-on hop-off buses?

Most London hop-on hop-off bus operators restrict luggage and large bags, prioritizing passenger comfort and safety. 

Typically, these buses offer limited storage for small bags and hand luggage in overhead compartments or under seats. 

However, larger suitcases or bulky items are generally not permitted onboard. Specific policies may vary among operators.

Can I bring food and drinks on the hop-on hop-off bus in London?

You can usually bring small snacks and non-alcoholic beverages for personal consumption. 

However, policies regarding bringing food and drinks on hop-on hop-off buses in London can vary between tour operators. Thus, checking the food and drink policies with the tour operators is recommended.

Moreover, it’s important to be considerate of other passengers and maintain cleanliness on the bus. 

Make sure to dispose of trash properly and avoid bringing food with strong odors that may disturb fellow passengers.

Are the buses wheelchair accessible for individuals with mobility challenges?

Hop-on hop-off buses in London are wheelchair accessible to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges.

Some hop-on hop-off buses in London have ramps or lifts to facilitate wheelchair boarding and disembarking. 

These accessibility features allow individuals using wheelchairs or mobility aids to access the bus easily and comfortably.

Can I use the hop-on hop-off bus ticket for unlimited rides during its validity?

Yes, hop-on hop-off bus tickets allow for unlimited rides within their validity period. 

These tickets are designed to provide flexibility and convenience, allowing passengers to hop on and off the bus at various stops as often as they like during the specified duration of the ticket.

During the validity period of your ticket, you can board the bus at any designated stop and disembark at any of the stops along the route.

How can I find out the current bus schedule and any route updates or changes?

You can download the android and iPhone bus tour app in advance to live-track buses, view bus stop locations, and more.

Can I purchase a combined ticket for the bus tour and other attractions in London?

You can purchase the London hop-on hop-off bus tour ticket individually and check which complementary attractions have been added.

If you wish to visit other attractions, you can purchase the entry tickets separately to avoid last-minute disappointment.

Is the London hop-on hop-off bus tour suitable for children?

The London hop-on hop-off bus tour is suitable for children, providing a fun and family-friendly way to see the city from an open-top bus.

Can I use the hop-on hop-off bus pass for public transportation in London?

The hop-on hop-off bus pass is usually specific to the tour buses and doesn’t grant access to public transportation like trams, buses, or trains in London.

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