London bus tours are a popular way to explore the city’s iconic landmarks. This comprehensive fare comparison of major London bus tour operators will help you choose the best option for your budget and preferences. We’ll examine ticket prices, package inclusions, and value-added features to determine which tour provides the most bang for your buck.
What Are the Main London Bus Tour Operators?
The primary London bus tour operators are:
- Big Bus Tours
- Tootbus London (formerly The Original London Tour)
- Golden Tours
- City Sightseeing London
Each of these companies offers hop-on hop-off services with varying ticket durations and inclusions.
How Do the Ticket Prices Compare?
Let’s break down the ticket prices for each operator:
Big Bus Tours
| Ticket Type | Adult | Child | Family |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Day Classic | £36.90 | £27.90 | £101.70 |
| 2 Days Premium | £53.10 | £44.10 | £124.60 |
| 3 Days Deluxe | £62.10 | £53.10 | £177.30 |
Tootbus London
| Ticket Type | Adult | Child | Family |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Day | £26.35 (online), £31.00 (in person) | £15.30 | £80.00 |
| 2 Days | £28.90 | £17.85 | £89.00 |
| 3 Days | £31.45 | £20.40 | £98.00 |
Golden Tours
| Ticket Type | Adult | Child | Family |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24 Hours | £35.49 (online), £38.60 (in person) | £20.00 | £99.19 |
| 48 Hours | £38.60 | £20.64 | £110.08 |
| 72 Hours | £50.00 | £26.00 | £142.00 |
City Sightseeing London
| Ticket Type | Adult | Child | Family |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24 Hours | £32 | £20 | £84 |
What Are the Package Inclusions for Each Tour?
Each tour operator offers different inclusions with their tickets:
-
Big Bus Tours: Hop-on hop-off bus tour, free river cruise (except night tour), free guided walks (except night tour), and Wi-Fi.
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Tootbus London: Hop-on hop-off bus tour, optional river cruise with the Must See London ticket, and Wi-Fi.
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Golden Tours: Hop-on hop-off bus tour, free river cruise (except one-day ticket), free guided walking tours (except one-day ticket), and Wi-Fi.
-
City Sightseeing London: Hop-on hop-off bus tour, optional river cruise, and Wi-Fi.
Are There Any Available Discounts?
Yes, several discounts are available:
- Big Bus Tours: Use promo code \”PLANTRIP10\” for an additional 10% off when booking through their official website.
- Online Discounts: Most operators offer lower prices for online bookings compared to in-person purchases.
- Seasonal Promotions: Keep an eye out for seasonal deals and package offers from all operators.
Which Tour Offers the Best Value for Money?
The best value depends on your specific needs, but here’s a general assessment:
-
For Budget Travelers: Tootbus London offers the lowest prices, especially for their 1-day ticket when booked online (£26.35).
-
For Families: City Sightseeing London has the most affordable family ticket for 24 hours at £84.
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For Extended Stays: Tootbus London’s 3-day ticket offers the best value for longer visits at £31.45 for adults.
-
For Inclusions: Big Bus Tours and Golden Tours offer the most comprehensive packages, including river cruises and walking tours with most tickets.
What Do Customer Reviews Say About the Value?
Customer reviews often mention:
- Prices can be high compared to public transport, but the convenience and commentary add value.
- The inclusion of river cruises and walking tours is appreciated.
- Online discounts significantly improve the value proposition.
- Wi-Fi and multilingual audio guides enhance the experience.
How Can You Maximize Value on London Bus Tours?
To get the most value from your London bus tour:
- Book online to take advantage of discounts.
- Consider multi-day tickets if staying for more than a day.
- Use included extras like river cruises and walking tours.
- Compare package inclusions, not just prices.
- Look for seasonal promotions or combo deals.
By carefully comparing fares, inclusions, and reviews, you can choose the London bus tour that offers the best value for your specific needs and budget.
