City Sightseeing London — photo 1 of 5

City Sightseeing London

1 / 5

Rating

4.7(3,185)

Family of 4

USD 120–160

Duration

2–3 hours

Best Ages

4 and up

About

City Sightseeing London is one of the easiest ways to introduce your family to the city without wearing out small legs. The iconic red double-decker hop-on hop-off buses circle the most famous landmarks in London, letting you set your own pace. Families can ride the full loop for a panoramic overview, then hop off at spots that catch the kids' attention — whether that's the Tower of London, St Paul's Cathedral, or the South Bank.

The open-top upper deck is a genuine thrill for children, offering unobstructed views of London's skyline. On chillier days or when the rain rolls in, the enclosed lower deck keeps everyone comfortable. Buses run frequently, so if you linger somewhere longer than planned, the next bus isn't far behind.

Commentary is available in multiple languages via audio guide, which keeps older kids engaged as they connect what they're hearing to what they're seeing. Tickets are valid for 24 or 48 hours, so you're not rushed. Stops are positioned near restrooms, cafes, and key attractions, making it straightforward to manage snack breaks and diaper changes.

For families visiting London for the first time, this bus tour gives you a solid lay of the land before you commit to any one neighborhood. It's particularly good on day one when everyone still has energy and you want to soak in as much as possible before jet lag sets in.

Age Suitability

Infants (0-1)Toddlers (1-3)Little Kids (4-6)Big Kids (7-9)Tweens (10-12)Teens (13-17)

Parent Logistics

Stroller-Friendly

Nursing / Changing

Not on the bus; facilities available at major stops

Kid Meals

No food on board; food courts near main stops

Setting

Rainy Day

Great option!

Plan Your Visit

Best Time to Visit

Morning departures to beat crowds at stops

Wait Times

5–15 minutes between buses

Nearby Food

Numerous cafes and food markets near stops including Borough Market, Covent Garden, and South Bank

Why Kids Love It

Kids get to ride on the open top deck and watch all of London roll by below them — Big Ben, the Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace. The commentary is engaging and easy enough for school-age kids to follow, and being up high makes everything feel like an adventure.

Pro Tips from Parents

  • Sit on the upper deck near the front for the best sightseeing and photos
  • Start at Victoria or Trafalgar Square for the easiest boarding experience
  • Download the app so you can track bus arrivals in real time

What to Bring

  • Light rain jacket even on sunny days — London weather changes fast
  • Snacks and water bottles for the loop
  • Sunscreen for the open top deck in summer

Cost Info

Estimated Cost (Family of 4)

USD 120–160

Tips to Save

  • Book online in advance for 10–15% discount; children under 5 often ride free

Hours & Contact

Hours

Friday
8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Monday
8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Sunday
8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Tuesday
8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Saturday
8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Thursday
8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Wednesday
8:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Have a Question?

Frequently Asked Questions

Tickets & Booking

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