Hop on Hop off Bus Tour (24h)

Thinking about sightseeing in London without the hassle of underground tunnels or fixed schedules? This 24-hour hop-on hop-off bus tour offers a way to see many of London’s iconic sights with relative ease. While some travelers have had mixed experiences, this type of tour appeals to those craving flexibility, especially if you want to cover a lot of ground in a single day.

We’re drawn to the idea of snapping photos from the semi-open top deck, being able to hop off at famous landmarks like Big Ben or Buckingham Palace, and not having to worry about navigating the Tube after a long flight. The concept of combining two routes — Landmarks and Parks & Palaces — makes this a versatile option. But, it’s worth noting that some reviews highlight challenges like limited bus frequency, which might impact your experience.

If you’re someone who appreciates the convenience of looking around at your own pace and capturing the best angles, this tour could work well. However, it’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind potential waits and are prepared to be flexible with their schedule.

Good To Know

Convenience for travelers: The hop-on hop-off model simplifies seeing London’s main sights without the stress of public transit confusion.
Two routes for variety: You can explore both historic landmarks and lush parks or royal palaces.
Photo opportunities: The semi-open top deck provides great 360-degree views for photos and sightseeing.
Limited bus frequency: The reviews indicate that buses may not always come as scheduled, leading to longer waits.
Value for price: At roughly $44, this pass offers a day’s worth of sightseeing, but some feel the experience could be more seamless.
Helpful guides: Several reviews mention knowledgeable guides, which can enrich your experience despite the bus service issues.

Overview of the Tour Experience

This 24-hour hop-on hop-off bus tour from TopView London covers two main routes, giving you a broad look at the city’s highlights. The ticket is valid for an entire day, allowing you to hop off at landmarks you want to explore more closely, then catch the next bus to continue your tour. It’s a flexible way to see London’s major sights without the need for a strict schedule.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour starts at Marble Arch, a classic London starting point, offering a scenic introduction to the city’s historic core. From there, it moves through Piccadilly Circus, where the bustling lights and giant screens set the tone, and on to Trafalgar Square, home to Nelson’s Column and the National Gallery. Here, you can hop off to soak in the lively atmosphere or snap photos of the iconic fountains.

Next, the bus passes by Craig’s Court and Big Ben, offering spectacular views of Westminster. Many travelers mentioned that this stop is particularly memorable, especially those who enjoy capturing photos of Parliament and Elizabeth Tower. One reviewer noted the stop is near Westminster Pier, making it easy to continue exploring on foot or by boat.

For those interested in London Eye, the lastminute.com London Eye stop is conveniently located, giving you quick access to the famous ferris wheel. The bus then crosses the Thames, revealing views of the Tower of London—a must-see for history buffs. The route continues through St. Paul’s Cathedral and historic sites like the Monument to the Great Fire of London, perfect for history-lovers who enjoy learning about the city’s resilience.

The second route, Parks and Palaces, takes you through Victoria and Albert Museum, Kensington High Street, and Diana Memorial Gardens, offering a more relaxed, green perspective of London. Notably, stops near Buckingham Palace and Queen Elizabeth Gate let you catch the Changing of the Guard or simply admire the royal surroundings.

The Experience on the Bus

The buses are semi-open top, providing excellent views and photo opportunities. Travelers appreciated the chance to see the city from above, especially on a clear day. However, some also noted cleanliness issues, with reviews suggesting buses could benefit from more frequent cleaning between rides.

Buses generally run during the day from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and the service runs every day. But, multiple reviews pointed out that bus frequency can be irregular. One reviewer mentioned long waits, criticizing TopView for having too few buses, which could lead to frustration, especially during busy times.

Guides and Commentary

While the specific guides are not named, reviews highlight knowledgeable staff, which can make a significant difference. Many appreciated the commentary, which helped them understand the significance of sites like the Tower of London or the Victoria and Albert Museum. The guides seem to add value, especially when buses run on time and the commentary is engaging.

What You Can Expect at Key Stops

Marble Arch & Park Lane: A grand entrance to central London, perfect for family photos and orientation.
Piccadilly Circus: The vibrant heart of London’s entertainment district, buzzing with neon lights and street performers.
Trafalgar Square: A historic hub with Nelson’s Column and the National Gallery, ideal for a quick stop or a longer walk.
Big Ben & Westminster: Iconic landmarks, great for photos, especially if you want to see Parliament or catch a glimpse of the Changing of the Guard.
London Eye: Offers sweeping views of London’s skyline; a popular stop for photos and quick visits.
Tower of London: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with a fascinating past, often visited by travelers interested in British history.
St. Paul’s Cathedral: Known for its stunning dome, it’s a must-see for architecture enthusiasts and those wanting a spiritual touch.
Green Spaces & Royal Palaces: Kensington Gardens, Diana Memorial Gardens, and Buckingham Palace provide lush scenery and royal vibes.

Practical Considerations

While the tour offers the advantage of a flexible schedule, the limited number of buses may lead to wait times, especially during peak hours. We recommend planning your day around potential gaps in service—perhaps by choosing specific landmarks to explore longer rather than trying to stay on the bus continuously.

The price of around $44 per person for 24 hours offers decent value if you’re planning a full day of sightseeing. The ability to hop on and off at your own pace means you can avoid crowded attractions and focus on places that genuinely interest you.

However, some travelers voiced concerns about cleanliness and bus frequency. If you’re sensitive to cleanliness, prepare for potential bus interiors to be less tidy. If you prefer a more stable schedule, be ready for possible waits and consider whether this format suits your travel style.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors who want a broad overview of London in a single day. It’s straightforward, with lots of prominent landmarks that most travelers will want to see. If you enjoy guided commentary, the knowledgeable guides can add context and fun facts to your sightseeing.

It’s also perfect for photo lovers, thanks to the semi-open top deck that captures the city’s skyline. Plus, if you’re on a budget, the ticket price gives access to many major sites without the need for multiple tickets or transportation costs.

However, if you’re a traveler who values punctuality, or if you dislike waiting in queues, this might not be your ideal choice. The limited bus frequency and occasional delays could make the experience less smooth. Likewise, those who prefer more curated or guided tours with small groups might find this too impersonal.

Final Thoughts

The 24-hour hop-on hop-off bus tour offers a flexible, panoramic way to explore London’s most famous sites, especially if you’re keen to see as much as possible in a short time. The semi-open top deck makes for excellent photos, and the two routes cover a diverse set of attractions, from royal palaces to historic landmarks and green parks.

On the downside, the inconsistent bus frequency and some cleanliness issues have been noted by travelers, which can impact the overall enjoyment. It’s worth considering whether your schedule allows for potential waits or if you prefer a more scheduled, reliable experience.

This tour suits those who enjoy independent sightseeing with a touch of guided commentary and are comfortable with some unpredictability. For travelers eager to tick off London’s highlights without the hassle of public transit, it’s a practical, budget-friendly option—just keep your expectations flexible.

FAQ

How long is the tour valid?
The ticket is valid for 24 hours from the time you start using it, giving ample time to explore at your own pace.

Can I hop off and back on the bus?
Yes, you can hop off at any of the designated stops and catch the next bus to continue your sightseeing.

What are the operating hours?
The buses run daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with departures depending on demand.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. Specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned.

Is this tour suitable for groups?
Yes, but keep in mind that the buses might be crowded or have limited availability, especially during peak times.

What is the price per person?
Approximately $44.02, which offers good value if you plan to see many sights in one day.

Are the buses air-conditioned or heated?
While the reviews don’t specify, the semi-open top design suggests some exposure to the weather, so dress accordingly.

Is there commentary during the ride?
Yes, knowledgeable guides provide commentary, enhancing your understanding of the sights.

How do I find the bus stops?
Stops are well-marked at major landmarks, but some reviewers suggest that signage could be clearer.

To sum it up, this hop-on hop-off bus tour in London offers a practical way to see the city’s highlights at your own pace, especially suited for first-timers and photo enthusiasts. With a bit of patience and flexibility, you’ll enjoy a panoramic snapshot of London’s iconic sights. If you’re prepared for potential waits and occasional bus condition issues, it can be a valuable addition to your London itinerary.