London is packed with world-famous sights, but it can feel overwhelming to try and fit everything in. That’s where a Big Bus hop-on hop-off tour makes life easier. Sit back on the open-top deck, listen to the commentary, and let the bus do the hard work while you decide where to hop off and explore.
Whether you’ve got a single day or a whole weekend, there’s a ticket to suit. Choose a 1-day pass for a whistle-stop highlights tour, or go for a 24–48 hour ticket if you want to take things at a more relaxed pace. Many passes also include extras like a one-way Thames River Cruise or an evening tour to see London lit up at night. With free Wi-Fi and audio guides on board, it’s one of the simplest and most flexible ways to experience the capital.
Flying in? Quick Skyscanner Checker
Nearest major gateways: Heathrow, Gatwick & Stanstead.
Bestselling London Bus Tour Tickets
Explore London the Big Bus way. Get the Discover Ticket for our best value London sightseeing experience!
1 DAY
ONE DAY TICKET
What’s included:
- Same day hop-on, hop-off ticket
Adult from £29.00
24 HOURS
DISCOVER TICKET
What’s included:
- 24h hop-on, hop-off ticket
- River Cruise – one way
- Fully Flexible Bus Ticket (free date change)
Adult from £34.99
48 HOURS
ESSENTIAL TICKET
What’s included:
- 48h hop-on, hop-off ticket
- 3 Guided walking tours:
– The Royal Walk
– Harry Potter Walk
– Jack the Ripper Walk - River Cruise – one way
- Fully Flexible Bus Ticket (free date change)
Adult from £44.99
48 HOURS
EXPLORE TICKET
What’s included:
- 48h hop-on, hop-off ticket
- 3 Guided walking tours:
– The Royal Walk
– Harry Potter Walk
– Jack the Ripper Walk - London Evening Tour
- River Cruise – one way
- Fully Flexible Bus Ticket (free date change)
Adult from £54.99
Routes & Timings
- Red Route: Central highlights. Typical loop ~2h30; buses ~every 10–20 min. See ‘Red’ Route
- Blue Route: Kensington & museums. See ‘Blue’ Route
- Green Route: Links major stations/British Museum to main routes. See ‘Green’ Route
See the live route map on Big Bus
Service changes happen (e.g., temporary stop closures). Always check live service info before you go.
Thames River Cruise
24h and 48h tickets include a one-way cruise on the Thames (great views of Tower Bridge, the Shard, and Westminster). Same-day One Day tickets usually don’t include the cruise—check at checkout.
Evening Tour (Night Lights)
See London after dark—Big Ben, the London Eye and more lit up. Included with the Explore 48h ticket, or book separately.
Compare tickets
| Feature | One Day | Discover 24h | Essential 48h | Explore 48h |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hop-on window | Same day | 24 hours | 48 hours | 48 hours |
| Thames River Cruise | No | Yes (one-way) | Yes (one-way) | Yes (one-way) |
| Guided walking tours | No | No | Yes (3) | No |
| Evening Tour | No | No | No | Yes |
| Best for | Short visits | First-timers | Weekend trips | Night views |
How it works
- Choose your ticket & buy securely via Big Bus (official partner).
- Get your mobile ticket instantly.
- Find your nearest stop on the live map and hop on.
- Use the headphones for recorded commentary; hop off for sights.
- Using cruise/evening tour? Follow the instructions on your ticket for boarding.
Big Bus London – FAQs
Q: Is the Thames River Cruise included?
Yes on 24h/48h tickets (Discover/Essential/Explore) as a one-way cruise. One Day (same-day) usually excludes it—check at checkout.
Q: How long are the routes?
Red Route loop is around 2h30 with buses typically every 10–20 minutes; timings vary by traffic and day.
Q: Do I need to print my ticket?
No—mobile tickets are accepted.
Q: Is there live commentary?
Recorded commentary is provided; live guides run on selected services/tours.
Q: Are the tickets flexible?
Some options include free date changes—look for “Fully Flexible” at checkout.
Q: Is the Evening Tour included?
Included with the Explore 48h ticket; otherwise you can book it separately.
Q: Accessibility & strollers?
Many buses are accessible, but facilities vary by service. Check the operator’s latest service info.
Q: Where do I board the River Cruise?
Boarding points are listed in your ticket instructions and on the operator’s live info.
Q: What about service changes?
Routes and stops can change temporarily—always check the live service update page on the day.
Q: Can I bring pets?
Policies can vary; check the operator guidelines before travelling.
Related London Walks & Guides
Travel Data: I highly recommend using eSIMs as they are the best and most efficient way to have internet connectivity, removing the hassle of having a physical sim, removing expensive roaming fees and being connected as soon as you land. My favorite eSIM and my personal recommendation are the eSIMs from Sim Local because they are a very affordable option and have great plans in Japan with great speed and amazing coverage in all the country.
Sim Local can reduce or even eliminate your roaming fees. Click www.simlocal.com/ + 10% Discount Using – ‘WELSHMAN’
Disclosure: I may earn a commission if you buy via the links on this page—at no extra cost to you.