London’s hop-on hop-off buses offer one of the most flexible ways to explore the city’s iconic landmarks. With open-top decks, pre-recorded commentary, and the freedom to disembark at any stop, they remain a popular choice for first-time visitors and families alike. The market is dominated by three main operators: Big Bus, Tootbus, and City Sightseeing, each with distinct strengths. This guide breaks down the routes, pricing, reviews, and practical considerations to help you choose the best option for your trip.
Which Hop on Hop off London Bus Company is Best?
- Big Bus is the most established operator. With the highest number of stops and frequency, it is the default choice for first-time visitors.
- Tootbus offers the most modern experience. App-based tracking, themed routes, and kid-friendly commentary make it a strong contender.
- City Sightseeing is often the budget option. Usually slightly cheaper, but with fewer stops and less frequency.
- Pre-booking is essential for best prices. On-the-day tickets are almost always more expensive than online advance purchases.
| Fact | Value |
|---|---|
| Average ticket price (1 day) | £35-£45 |
| Number of routes (average) | 3 |
| Typical frequency | Every 15-30 minutes |
| Total stops (average) | 20-25 |
| Audio guide languages | 10-12 (depending on operator) |
| Children discount (typical) | 50% or free with family ticket |
| Operating hours | 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM (seasonal variations) |
What is the Hop on Hop off London Route Map?
Each operator runs slightly different routes, but all cover the central landmarks. Big Bus operates two routes: the Red Classic with 22–50 stops through central London and a Green Circular/Westminster line covering Tower Bridge to Kensington. Tootbus runs one or two routes (Blue line), an efficient central loop with 10–40 stops. City Sightseeing offers two to three lines with roughly 50 stops; their Red route is the key pickup point. Golden Tours provides two to three lines (29–60 stops) including a Red Classic (21 stops at main sites), a Yellow shuttle (8 stops serving hotels, mornings only) and a Blue line (22 stops).
How do the routes compare across operators?
Big Bus and City Sightseeing each offer around 50 total stops, Golden Tours claims up to 60, and Tootbus about 40. Common pickup points vary: Tootbus uses Blue stop 19, City Sightseeing Red stop 11, and Golden Tours Blue stop 22. You can find detailed route maps on operator websites and apps; for example, a visual comparison of Big Bus, Tootbus and Golden Tours is available at Thingstodoinlondon.com.
To maximise your time, pick a route that covers your priority sights first. The full loop without getting off takes 2–3 hours, longer in peak traffic.
What stops are on the hop on hop off London bus?
All operators stop near major attractions: Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, London Eye, Tower of London, Westminster Abbey. Specific stop lists are provided on each company’s official site and in their mobile apps. For real-time tracking, Big Bus and Tootbus offer live GPS maps within their apps.
How Much Do Hop on Hop off London Tickets Cost?
Prices vary by operator, duration, and booking channel. Online booking typically saves £4–£10 compared to on-the-day purchase. Below is a snapshot of current adult, child and family pricing for 1‑day and 2‑day tickets based on 2025–2026 sources.
| Provider | 1-Day/24h (Adult/Child/Family) | 2-Day/48h (Adult/Child/Family) |
|---|---|---|
| Big Bus Tours | £31-£40 / £23-£25 / £86 | £50-£62 / £53 / N/A |
| Tootbus | £29-£39 / £17-£18 / £78 | £43 / N/A / N/A |
| City Sightseeing | £33-£39 / N/A / N/A | £48 / N/A / N/A |
| Golden Tours | £26-£37 / £15-£22 / £98-£134 | £40-£45 / £20 / £120 |
Family = 2 adults + 2 children. Prices are approximate online booking rates from 2025–2026. Always check the operator’s site for the latest deals.
What is the best value hop on hop off London ticket?
For a single day, Tootbus and City Sightseeing offer the cheapest adult fares (from £29 and £33 respectively). Big Bus provides greater route coverage and frequency for a slightly higher price. Golden Tours has the lowest 1‑day adult entry from £26 but lacks wheelchair access. If you plan to visit attractions over two days, Big Bus’s 48‑hour ticket at £50–£62 is competitive. Family travellers often find Big Bus or Tootbus family deals the most cost-effective.
Ticket validity starts from first use, not from purchase. Some operators offer free cancellation within 24–48 hours; others do not. Refund policies vary, so review terms on the booking site before finalising.
Are hop on hop off London tickets worth it?
For visitors wanting to see multiple landmarks without navigating the Tube, yes. A 24‑hour ticket costs roughly the same as two or three single Tube journeys across central London but includes a curated route, commentary, and the ability to hop off at any stop. The open‑top experience also provides panoramic photo opportunities unavailable on underground transport.
What Do Hop on Hop off London Reviews Say?
On TripAdvisor, the major operators score 4.5 to 5 stars across more than 900 reviews. Traveliers describe the tours as “perfect for first‑timers” because they combine structure with freedom. Big Bus has over 906 reviews, with families praising the flexibility and multi‑day options. Tootbus and City Sightseeing are rated highly for efficiency and value. Golden Tours is noted for its hotel‑shuttle Yellow route, though it is limited to morning hours.
Common pros include unlimited rides, audio guides in up to 13 languages (including Hindi, Arabic and Chinese), complimentary headphones, and frequent buses every 10–30 minutes. Common cons are traffic delays (the full loop can take 3–4 hours in peak periods), no food or hotel pickup included, and weather dependence (open‑top buses operate in rain but the upper deck is exposed). Families especially appreciate the free or discounted child fares – toddlers get a thrill from the open‑top views.
How Did London’s Hop on Hop off Buses Evolve?
- 1950s: First sightseeing buses appear in London with pre‑recorded commentary.
- 1991: Big Bus Tours founded, becoming the first major hop‑on hop‑off operator.
- 2000s: City Sightseeing and The Original Tour expand in London.
- 2019: Tootbus rebrands from The Original Tour, introducing app features.
- 2020–2021: COVID‑19 disruptions; operators adapt with hygiene protocols and flexible tickets.
- 2025: Current competitive landscape: Big Bus, Tootbus, and City Sightseeing dominate the market.
What Is Certain and What Remains Unclear About These Tours?
| Topic | Certainty | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Route availability | High | Main routes are stable year‑round, but seasonal variations and temporary road closures occur. |
| Ticket pricing | Medium‑High | List prices are fixed, but promotional discounts and third‑party deals vary frequently. |
| Refund and cancellation | Medium | Most operators offer free cancellation within 24–48 hours; check terms before booking. |
| Weather impact | High | Open‑top buses operate in rain unless extreme weather; umbrellas and covered lower decks available. |
| Best operator ranking | Subjective | Best choice depends on personal priorities (price, route, commentary style). We provide data for your decision. |
What Context Helps Understand These Tours?
Hop‑on hop‑off buses remain the most flexible way to see London’s major attractions, but they are not always the cheapest. A 24‑hour ticket costs roughly the same as two to three single Tube journeys across central London, yet it includes guidance and a curated route. The market has consolidated to three main operators, each differentiating on technology (Tootbus app), tradition (Big Bus scale), or price (City Sightseeing). Family travellers should prioritise operators with dedicated kid commentary and family ticket deals: both Big Bus and Tootbus offer children’s audio channels and reduced child fares.
What Do Official Sources Say?
“Visit the iconic London Eye and the world-famous Buckingham Palace at your own pace with our London Hop On Hop Off bus tours.”
“London hop-on hop-off bus tours allow you to explore the entire city at your own pace, with multiple stops and pre-recorded audio commentary on open-top buses.”
“Enjoy London at your own pace with our Hop-On Hop-Off bus with audio guide. Check our double-decker bus route map and main stops.”
Which Company Should You Choose?
The answer depends on your priorities. For broadest coverage and frequency, Big Bus remains the default. For a modern, app‑driven experience with child‑friendly commentary, Tootbus is strong. City Sightseeing works well for budget‑conscious travellers. Golden Tours offers the cheapest 1‑day ticket but lacks wheelchair access. Before booking, check the latest prices on official operator sites and look for seasonal discounts. For deeper London travel planning, you might also read our Kings Cross St Pancras – Station Guide or The Little Scarlet Door – Soho Cocktail Bar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth doing hop on hop off in London?
Yes, if you want to see multiple attractions without navigating the Tube. It provides orientation, commentary, and flexible stops.
How long does a hop on hop off bus take in London?
A full loop without getting off takes approximately 2–3 hours, depending on traffic and the route.
How much is a hop on hop off bus in London?
Adult tickets range from £32 to £55 for 24 hours, depending on the operator and whether you book online.
Which hop on hop off bus is best London?
Big Bus is best for coverage and frequency; Tootbus is best for tech features; City Sightseeing is best for budget.
Can you hop on hop off anywhere in London?
Only at designated stops along the bus routes, which are clearly marked and listed on maps.
Is the hop on hop off bus cheaper than the Tube?
For single journeys, the Tube is cheaper. For a full day of sightseeing covering many stops, the bus can be better value.
What is the best hop-on hop-off bus in London for seniors?
All operators offer senior discounts; Big Bus and Tootbus have accessible lower decks.
Henry Wallace is Managing Editor at RegionalReport.co.uk, running the daily news list, the regional publishing schedule and newsroom workflow.