london guided tours

THE 10 BEST London Tours & Excursions

London tours.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Walking Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath from London

2. Big Bus London Hop-On Hop-Off Tour and River Cruise

3. Guided Tour of London Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Buckingham

4. Buckingham Palace Entrance Ticket & Changing of the Guard Tour

5. Westminster 3 Hour Walking Tour & Visit Churchill War Rooms

6. The Premier Classic London: Private 4-Hour Tour in a Black Cab

7. Stonehenge, Windsor Castle and Bath with Pub Lunch in Lacock

8. Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour with Transport from London

9. Tower of London: Entry Ticket, Crown Jewels and Beefeater Tour

10. Stonehenge and Windsor from London

11. Exclusive Late Entry at Warner Bros. Studio Tour with Champagne

12. Guided Luxury Paris Day Trip with Optional Lunch at the Eiffel Tower

13. Westminster Walking Tour & Westminster Abbey Entry

14. Small-Group Cotswolds Tour (From London)

15. Cotswolds Small Group Tour from London

16. City Sightseeing London Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

17. London Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

18. Westminster to Greenwich Sightseeing Thames Cruise in London

19. Royal London and the Changing of the Guard Walking Tour

20. Best of London Tour inc Tower of London and Changing of the Guard

21. Windsor Castle Half Day Trip from London

22. Leeds Castle, Cliffs of Dover and Canterbury Day Trip from London with Guided Cathedral Tour

23. See Over 30 Top London Sights! Fun Local Guide!!

24. Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Bath Tour from London & Admissions

25. Ghost, Ghouls and Gallows Walking Tour with Boat Ride

26. London: Buckingham Palace & Big Ben (& Westminster Abbey entry)

27. Stonehenge and Bath Tour from London

28. VIP Tower of London and Crown Jewels Tour with Private Beefeater Meet & Greet

29. Canterbury Cathedral, Dover Castle & White Cliffs Guided Day Tour from London

30. The British Museum London Guided Museum Tour - Semi-Private 8ppl Max

What travelers are saying.

• Nicole G 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Wonderful tour Richard was an smazing and informative tour guide! This tour was well worth it. We were able to see a great portion of England and enjoy some historical sites along the way. Read more Review of: Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath from London Written June 9, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

• Glen M 2 contributions 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles An entertaining walk through the heart of London Adrian was an enthusiastic guide. Especially considering we arrived late for our tour and just happened to find him in the park, and he just happened to be with the same tour company and took us in. He was informative and entertaining, occasionally using a voice for a little theatrical flare. Our tour was filled with stories, history, and recommendations. He was also very knowledgeable when asked questions. Like knowing the history of any of the buildings along the walk, Even if they weren't what we were there to see. Read more Review of: Westminster Walking Tour & Westminster Abbey Entry Written June 9, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

• London Tours

Embark on a journey of discovery into London's history

• Evan Evans Tours

London Guided Tours

Discover the rich tapestry of history, culture, and iconic landmarks that define London with our Guided Tours. Our knowledgeable and expert guides are passionate about showcasing the best of London, ensuring you have an unforgettable experience. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or an art enthusiast, our tours cater to all interests. Join us and let the magic of London unfold as you e xplore famous attractions and iconic landmarks such as Big Ben, the London Eye, the Tower of London and Westminster Abbey .

POPULAR TOURS IN LONDON

Exploring London can be endless, so we made sure to pick the best guided tours to give you a good overview of the capital while you're visiting. Depending on preferences, there's a tour for everyone to enjoy!

Harry Potter Studio Tour - The Making of Harry Potter

Our Harry Potter Studio Tour is one of our highest-rated tours and is available daily from Central London with comfortable return transportation. Discover the wonders and secrets of Hogwarts and get a glimpse behind the scenes. Step through the doors of the spectacular Great Hall into the dining room, where the Sorting Hat famously sorted Hogwarts students into their houses.

ABBA Voyage - Transfer & Concert Ticket

Royal London tour with Westminster Abbey & Afternoon Tea

London In One Day Tour with River Cruise & London Eye option

Crown Jewels and London Tour with River Cruise

Royal London Tour with River Cruise Option

See London by Night

The Ultimate Jack The Ripper Guided Tour with Fish & Chips

Recommended london tours, abba voyage express.

From £95.00

Experience a concert like no other! Choose among Seated, Dance Floor or Coach Only tickets.

Crown Jewels of London tour with River Cruise

From £92.00

London in One Day with Changing of the Guard

From £125.00

London in One Day with Changing of the Guard & River Cruise

ABBA VOYAGE

Attend an experience like no other! ABBA Voyage is the long-awaited concert from one of the biggest pop acts of all time featuring a setlist of ABBA’s biggest, most popular hits – each handpicked with great care by the band.

ABBA Voyage - Express Coach & Concert Ticket

Abba voyage - express coach only, evan evans peace of mind.

You can book with us reassured that we have put numerous measures in place to elevate our hygiene standards and protocols, and be confident that your money is in safe hands with our flexible booking terms.

Committed to your well-being

Book with confidence, what makes us different.

As experts in sightseeing and driven by service, we're passionate about creating memories which will last our guests a lifetime.

THE TREADRIGHT FOUNDATION

This is our goal. We recognize our responsibility to ensure our impact on the planet we call home, the people we visit, and the wildlife we find there, is a positive one. We take steps to address our impact in two ways; through our sustainability strategy, How We Tread Right, and through our TreadRight Foundation.

London Tours

Cool britannia meets royalty & tradition.

Suit yourself up for an authentic look into the pomp and ceremony of the British capital. From insider looks into the lives of the Royals to its legends and art, you are sure to experience the London you've been dreaming of.

Exclusive Treatment

Experience more.

Small Groups

Our Best-Selling London Tours

Best of London: Tower of London, Thames River Ride & Changing of the Guards

Unique Fully Guided Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

Favorite tours for all tastes.

From London: Warner Bros. Studio Tour London- The Making of Harry Potter Entry Ticket and Escorted Train Transfer

Tower of london early access tour with private beefeater audience.

Interior Tour of Buckingham Palace with Royal Walking Tour - Limited Time Availability!

Interior Tour of Buckingham Palace and Changing of the Guard - Limited Time Availability!

WWII Secrets of Westminster, Churchill’s War Rooms & Museum Walking Tour

Changing of the Guards & Westminster Abbey Walking Tour– Two Iconic Experiences, One Morning

Why you should visit london with us.

London is the home of British pomp and splendour - and much more besides. To paraphrase Samuel Johnson, 18th century English writer and poet, when you’re tired of London, you’re tired of life. Of course, there’s no danger of that happening with the treasure chest of tradition and history that awaits you! You’ll experience it all when you tour with us.

Live like a royal when you join one of our tours that take in some of the traditions that make the House of Windsor world famous. Or visit the Tower of London with us for an experience you won’t soon forget.

From private tours to tours that focus on specific London attractions, you’ll experience London your way when you explore with us.

Our tours are renowned for the “something extra” we try to add to every experience. Take a look at our tour details for information on our unique skip-the-line access or private entrance to cut out the crowds.

20 years of Experience

Award-Winning Tours

Discover the Wonders of London

Recommended london posts.

TTC family of brands

My Trafalgar

Destinations

Get Inspired

866 513 1995

London Explorer

538 reviews

Last Minute Deal

Save up to $513

Available Dates

Your itinerary

Dates & prices

8 Day London Sightseeing Tour

8 days, 1 country and 4 cities

Accommodation

7 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 3 Dinners

View day-by-day trip itinerary

History meets the new age in vibrant London. You’re in for a royal time at Windsor Castle and the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. See life unfold from the water as you cruise to Greenwich and feel the buzz and spirit of one of London's oldest markets - Borough Market.

Looking to book in a group of 9 or more?

Deals, savings and exclusive private touring options available plus if you need a different date or itinerary change we can create a custom trip. Contact us for more details

Trip code: 

Low deposit from $200

Deposit protection

Free booking changes

Trip map & itinerary

Day by day itinerary

8 days itinerary trip from London to London visiting 1 country and 4 cities

Download itinerary

Print itinerary

Expand all days

About this trip

Sightseeing highlights.

Explore London

Discover Borough Market and Greenwich

Visit Stonehenge, Windsor Castle in Windsor, London's Westminster Abbey, Kensington Palace, and a choice of fantastic free museums including the Imperial War Museum and the British Museum

View Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace

Scenic Cruise on the Thames from the London Eye to Greenwich

Tickets London Oyster Card (Public Transport) pass

Travel highlights

Specific transfer information can be found here:

Airport Transfers

An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

The services of a Trafalgar Local Host when you stay at Trafalgar's recommended London hotel

Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted

All porterage and restaurant gratuities

All hotel tips, charges and local taxes

Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

Optional Experiences and free time

On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences

Every one of our tours includes at least one conscious travel experience that supports one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS). Look out for yours within the day-by-day trip itinerary.

Find out more

Net-zero by 2050

Travel knowing our 4-point climate action plan will ensure net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Support Local

Your tour directly supports local communities by visiting family-run businesses, UNESCO sites and places of cultural significance.

Sustainable Practices

Every part of our business, from trip design to how we run our offices, aligns to our 5-year sustainability strategy which ensures a positive impact on people, the planet and wildlife.

Philanthropic Efforts

Our not-for-profit, the TreadRight Foundation, invests in nature-based solutions to address climate change.

You’ll make a positive impact to people, planet and wildlife on this tour

LIVE, UNEDITED & INDEPENDENT TRAVELER REVIEWS

London Explorer trip reviews

#ttlondonexplorer.

Real moments from real travelers, creating the greatest travel stories they’ll ever tell

Or search for something else

Help & Info

WE MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

Unedited Reviews

Our Destination Management Companies

Frequently Asked Questions

Travel Updates

Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information

Travel Planning

Get Your Free Brochure

Travel Insurance

Booking Conditions

Trip Deposit Level

Recommendations

Trafalgar Tours Limited is a proud member of  The Travel Corporation  family of companies.

#SimplyTrafalgar

Travel House, Rue du Manoir St Peter Port, Guernsey, GY1 2JH

Selected Region

United States

United Kingdom

New Zealand

South Africa

Copyright 2024 Trafalgar. All rights reserved.

Terms and Conditions

Privacy Policy

Cookie Policy

• Top Destinations
• Mexico City, Mexico
• Tokyo, Japan
• Paris, France
• Rome, Italy
• London, United Kingdom
• All Destinations
• Upcoming Experiences
• Private Walking Tours
• Small-Group Tours
• Tours for Kids
• Museum Tours
• Food, Wine and Market Tours
• Newly Added Tours
• Audio Guides
• Pre-Trip Lectures
• Admin Dashboard
• My Favorites
• Cookies Preferences
• Client Orders
• Monthly Commissions
• My Advisor Profile
• Advisor Toolkit
• Guide Dashboard

Credit Balance

Transactions are based on current exchange rates and performed in USD. There maybe slight variations in the price estimates.

London in a Day Tour with Westminster Abbey Skip-the-Line Tickets

• Westminster Abbey
• Tower of London
• Borough Market

• Enjoy an experience tailored to your interests that goes beyond surface-level tourism, offering a deep dive into the city's rich history.
• Visit the iconic London landmarks with an expert who can share the unknown stories and facts that other visitors miss.

• You want to walk in the footsteps of kings and queens and hear the dramatic tales of the Tower of London or explore Westminster Abbey’s architectural wonders and historical significance.
• You wish to experience London’s vibrant market culture, sampling the best of Borough Market with an expert local leading the way.
• You’re keen to see iconic landmarks like Tower Bridge and Big Ben, guided by experts who bring their histories to life.
• Millennium Bridge
• River Thames
• St. James Park
• Buckingham Palace

Additional Trip-Planning Resources

• Comfortable and supportive shoes. We’re covering a lot of ground on this full-day tour!
• A portable battery to recharge your phone along the way so you can snap photos of all the iconic monuments and special moments throughout the day.
• An appetite for Borough Market treats and a curiosity for all things British history, art, architecture, and culture.
• Keep the exploration going with a self-paced audio guide during the rest of your visit.

Reviews can only be left by Context customers after they have completed a tour. For more information about our reviews, please see our FAQ .

You May Also Like

Churchill War Rooms Tour: A Guided Crash Course

London, England: Top 10 Highlights For Curious Travelers

Must-See Treasures of the British Museum

Roman Remains in London Audio Guide

Book a tour.

• Our Experts
• Working with Context
• View All Cities
• Sustainable Tourism
• Refer a Friend for $50
• Travel Updates
• Advisor Login
• Expert Portal

Subscribe to our Newsletter

• Privacy Statement & Security
• Cancellation Policy

• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

The 10 Best London Tours To Take in 2024 and Why

Brie Greenhalgh Last Updated: May 14, 2024

London is one of Europe’s oldest cities, which means there is a lot to explore in and near the city. It can be difficult to decide just which tours you want to book. From Stonehenge day trips and Harry Potter tours to walking tours of London’s top attractions, here are the best London tours to take and why we think you’ll love them.

• Check out our London guide —it’s packed with everything you need.
• Experience London like never before by joining one of our top-rated tours !
• If you’re short on time, we’ve got you covered with tips on how to see the best of London in just a day !
• Bookmark this post for quick access during your trip!

Are Guided Tours in London Worth it?

Short answer: Yes, it’s one of the best places to take advantage of a passionate, knowledgeable guide who knows England’s complex yet lively history!

London has a storied past filled with Romans, crusades, and powerful monarchs who oversaw one of the world’s largest empires. While the city you see today is a fantastic blend of modern alongside ancient—meshed surprisingly well—it can be overwhelming to get to all the places you want to see, from the Tower of London to Buckingham Palace .

And famous sites like Stonehenge aren’t even in the city at all. So, if you’re coming from a country where you drive on the right side of the road (ahem), you might not feel comfortable driving on those lovely countryside roads. These are just a few reasons why booking a tour in London is worth i t. And our clients agree!

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if London tours are worth it .

TOP 10 Tours in and Around London

If London has been calling your name, then make sure you’ve planned in advance what you really want to see. Why? Because London is really, really big with some of the most incredible attractions a day’s trip away too.

That’s why it’s always a good idea to look for ideal tours in London that make your day hassle-free, filled with memories, and unforgettable. Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle, Bath, Stonehenge—explore all of these and more on one of the best London tours!

1. London in a Day Walking Tour with Westminster Abbey and Tower of London 2. Early Entry Tower of London Tour with the Beefeaters 3. London Walking Tour with Westminster Abbey and Changing of the Guard 4. The Buckingham Palace Royalty Tour 5. Legends and Lore Tours of the Tower of London 6. Windsor Castle , Stonehenge, and Bath Day Trip from London 7. Exclusive Meet & Greet Tour with the Tower of London Beefeaters 8. Stonehenge at Wiltshire’s villages Tour from London 9. Harry Potter Studios with Exclusive Champagne Reception 10. The Ultimate London Speedboat Adventure

1. London in a Day Walking Tour with Westminster Abbey and Tower of London

Westminster Abbey

Your full-day tour of London starts at Westminster Abbey with skip-the-line tickets and a guided tour of this ancient church. It’s the site of famous churches, funerals, and every British coronation ceremony since 1066 AD! There’s a lot to discover so you’ll appreciate having a guide who knows exactly where to spend your valuable time here.

Pro tip: If you head towards your meeting point early, you’ll have time to snap pictures of the imposing Big Ben clocktower at the Houses of Parliament!

Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

After your visit to Westminster, it’s time to quickly head over to the Mall to watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony (certain days) or the Changing of the Horse Guard. You’ll get more than just a moment’s view of this famous event since your guide will lead you through the entire process at Buckingham Palace. Did you know only one set of guards wears the traditional black and red uniforms? Learn all about it, thanks to your guide!

River Thames Boat Ride

Now that you’ve walked through London’s central attractions, it’s time to head afield with the help of some transportation. A ride down the River Thames is the perfect way to see London from a new angle. Watch for Shakespeare’s Globe Theater re-creation, the London Eye, and Tower Bridge. You’ll travel to your next stop: the Tower of London.

Tower of London

Here your guide will unveil the deep history of Britain’s oldest fortress, which has Roman origins! Get to know the history of Thomas Moore, Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII, Walter Raleigh, and more. Plus, step into the museum where the ostentatious crown jewels are kept. This London tour makes all of this easy to do and incredibly rewarding too.

Highlights:

• See the best of London’s top attractions in a single day
• Skip-the-line entry at Westminster Abbey
• Changing of the Guard ceremony (certain days)
• Pictures of Buckingham Palace
• Free time for lunch
• Transportation to the Tower of London included
• Quicker entry and guided tour at the Tower of London
• Entry to see Crown Jewels
• Free time to walk across Tower Bridge at the end of your tour

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  London Guide for more resources.

2. Early Entry Tower of London Tour with the Beefeaters

Open the Gates

For certain days in the spring and summer, you can enjoy a limited experience of watching the Beefeaters open the gates at the Tower of London. They’re an entertaining, though important, part of this historical tradition, you’re sure to laugh as they complete their duties with a few jokes. Plus, you get an early entrance before the crowds!

Your local guide can’t wait to show you the rest of the Tower of London. It’s both haunted and historic, so listen to their tales at the Beefeater’s Quarters and the Bloody Tower. They’ll help you navigate this massive estate easily.

And, of course, you’ll get to go inside the Jewel House to see the 140 pieces of the royal collection of valuables and jewels. From the White Tower to Tower Green, your tour of the Tower of London will be unforgettable.

• Early entry to the Tower of London
• Exclusive opening ceremony with Beefeater guards
• Guided tour of the walls, grounds, and many buildings
• Entry to the Jewel House for the crown jewels
• Free time to explore the grounds or nearby Tower Bridge

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if a tour in London is worth it .

3. London Walking Tour with Westminster Abbey and Changing of the Guard

Clients love our skip-the-line access to the famous Westminster Abbey where they can enjoy a few minutes of quiet time with their guide in the nave of the abbey before the public enters. This is the oldest part of the entire church, and your guide will share its unique history as you stand in near-quiet solitude here.

The abbey is also full of the tombs and effigies of many famous Brits dating back several centuries. The famous Poet’s Corner will intrigue you as you see whose names are buried there—some you’ll recognize and might even surprise you! Explore the tombs of kings and queens, then see the coronation chair in the Quire as you learn who gets to sit in those tiny seats.

Finally, you’ll also get a chance to see the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony. This happens every day in June and July, but only on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays the rest of the year. Your guide knows just how to help you see the most of this auspicious event and will explain exactly what’s happening too.

• Skip-the-line entry to Westminster Abbey
• Guided visit to Britain’s most famous church

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  best Westminster Abbey tours to take and why .

4. British Museum Guided Tour in London

The British Museum is undoubtedly one of the world’s most significant collections. When I find myself in London, I always try to stay nearby so I can head in for an hour or so each morning, taking my time to explore each section in detail.

But not everyone has that luxury or that interest. If time is limited, or you want to ensure you don’t miss anything key without doing hours of research, then why not sign up for this expert-led two-hour guided tour?

You will be led through the expansive museum’s most impressive highlights, detailing the fascinating history behind each collection. Marvel at the amazing ceiling of the Great Court, learn about the famous Rosetta Stone, admire the Parthenon Sculptures, and explore the Ancient Egyptian galleries.

After your tour, you can continue exploring the rest of the museum’s many treasures on your own!

• Learn about the history and significance of each collection
• Expert, licensed guide
• Informative walking tour of the British Museum
• Admire the glass roof of the Great Court
• See the famous “Rosetta Stone”
• Witness the Parthenon Sculptures
• Visit stunning Ancient Egypt galleries and collection of Egyptian mummies
• See the Winged Bulls from Khorsabad

4. The Buckingham Palace Royalty Tour

St. James Park and the Mall

Start with a guided stroll like a proper Londoner through a tranquil garden that has quite a past. Your guide has stories about its history as a deer park before it became a usable area for the public. Then learn how the important avenue leading from Buckingham Palace to Trafalgar Square came to be. The Mall has been used as a processional and ceremonial road for centuries, and you just might feel like a royal as you walk it with your guide.

Buckingham Palace

This tour includes your ticket to Buckingham Palace, and it will be a meaningful experience since your guide has prepared you with stories and things to watch for as you explore inside. Only audio-guided tours are allowed in the summer, but you’ll have a leg up on the other travelers who didn’t have a morning guide with them. Envision life like a royal in the State Rooms and Throne Room.

• Guided tour of St. James Park and the Mall
• Entry to Buckingham Palace
• Audio guide for Buckingham Palace

Not ready to book a tour? Check out how to visit Buckingham Palace .

5. Legends and Lore Tour of the Tower of London

Cruise the River Thames

With a start in the famous Trafalgar Square, you’ll follow your guide to the River Thames to board a Thames Clipper boat. See London’s modern skyline with the beloved St. Paul’s Cathedral rising proudly between the skyscrapers as your guide explains each building. Get familiar with London’s other sites like the London Eye, Shakespeare’s Globe Theater, the Oxo Tower, Tower Bridge, and more.

The oldest fortress in London stands as a citadel on the River Thames near Tower Bridge. This unique structure has been built upon over the centuries since it’s first building, the White Tower, constructed by William the Conqueror in 1066 A.D.

Watch for the ravens and learn about the legend behind them and the British monarchy. Then try to distract a Beefeater guard before heading in to see the crown jewels. There are centuries of history, executions, and tragedy to learn about here, which is why your guide will be essential to enjoying one of the best London tours.

• Entry to the Tower of London
• Guided tour of the grounds and buildings
• Entry to see the British crown jewels
• Free time to explore the White Tower and Tower Bridge

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  best Tower of London tours to take and why .

6. Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath Day Trip from London

Round-trip Transportation from London

Make your day trip to Stonehenge easier by leaving the driving, transportation, and ticketing to a trusted guide. It’s a 2.5-hour drive out to Stonehenge, and if you’re not familiar with driving on the left side of the road, it can make for a stressful experience. Instead, when you book with us, you’ll feel comfortable as you sit back and let your driver do the work.

First, you’ll head over to Stonehenge, which is possibly Britain’s most famous ancient ruins. This 4,000-year-old structure is likely of Druid origin and fascinates visitors who marvel at its construction. You’ll have plenty of time to walk up to these mysterious stones and take pictures. Depending on the time of year, you might even have a chance to purchase some local strawberries to enjoy while you’re here!

Head to Bath, which is another city with deep roots from the Roman Empire. In fact, those Roman baths here are what gave this town its name, despite their original use by the Celts too. You’ll need to arrange your own tickets here, but if you’re not as interested in Roman baths, you might be tempted by the Jane Austen Museum.

Windsor Castle

Your final stop is Windsor Castle, the former Queen’s favorite residence. Located just an hour outside of London, this castle and its grounds are a popular place to visit. If you’re a fan of the royals, it’s easily one of the best London tours to take.

While no guides are allowed inside the castle, you’ll be prepared with a narrative from your driver-guide ahead of time and your skip-the-line tickets. There are 13,000 acres here, and you’ll be free to explore the Grand Apartments, Queen Mary’s Doll House, and more.

• London’s iconic sites outside of the city
• Skip-the-line tickets to Windsor Castle
• Time to explore Stonehenge
• Lunch in Bath (on your own)
• Options to visit the Roman Baths or Jane Austen Museum
• Round-trip transportation from London

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if a Windsor Castle tour is worth it .

7. Exclusive Meet & Greet Tour with the Tower of London Beefeaters

Private Meeting with a Beefeater

It doesn’t get more exclusive than a private 15 minutes with a Yeoman Warder (also known as a Beefeater). While these guards have a serious 20+ years of military career behind them, there’s nothing they love more than entertaining visitors with stories at the Tower in between their official duties. You can’t beat that!

Then you get to have your own guided tour of the rest of the Tower. From the Bloody Tower to St. Thomas’ Tower, Traitors Gate, and the White Tower, there’s more to explore than you can imagine. That’s why your guide is here to help you navigate and understand it all.

You’ll also get entry to the crown jewels that have wowed millions of visitors with their lavish decadence. Make sure to keep an eye out for the piece your guide tells you is the oldest in the entire collection—dating back to the early 1600s!

• Private meet & greet with a Beefeater

8. Stonehenge at Wiltshire’s villages Tour from London

Departing from London

Your journey begins in the bustling heart of London, where you’ll join this small group tour at Earls Court, easily accessible by public transport. As you board the comfortable coach, you’ll meet your guide and a small group of fellow explorers and set off to the serene countryside of Wiltshire. On the way, your driver will share captivating insights, preparing you for the mystical experiences at Stonehenge, Avebury, and other Neolithic wonders you’ll encounter.

West Kennet Long Barrow and Silbury Hill

Your first stop on your journey into Britain’s Neolithic past is West Kennet Long Barrow, one of the largest burial tombs in the country. Upon arrival, you’ll join your guide for a walk through its ancient chambers, dating back to 3650 BCE, and ponder the spiritual life of early civilizations. Nearby, you’ll catch a view of Silbury Hill, the largest prehistoric human-made mound in Europe that continues to intrigue archaeologists and visitors alike with its mysterious origins and purpose.

The Ancient Stone Circles of Avebury

Next, your adventure continues to the quaint village of Avebury, encircled by the world’s largest stone circle. Your guide will lead a walking tour around the massive stones, sharing insights into their possible meanings and uses.

After the tour, enjoy free time to explore the village and embrace the quietness accompanying this lesser-visited wonder. Oh, and don’t miss the chance to visit the Red Lion Pub, a perfect spot for a quintessentially British lunch, as well as the town’s charming, if not eccentric, healing stone shop.

The Iconic Stonehenge

Now comes the highlight you’ve been anticipating—visiting the legendary Stonehenge. With your included ticket and audio guide, you’re free to explore this ancient site at your leisure. Stand amidst these towering stones, immersing yourself in their mysterious origins and enigmatic purpose. You’ll have around two hours to delve into the site’s hidden wonders and captivating history.

Then, around 5:00 pm, you’ll regroup back at the coach for your return journey to London. Reflect on the day’s discoveries and enjoy the scenic drive through the English countryside. Upon arriving at the original starting point in Earls Court, your guide will be available to offer any needed public transport advice, rounding off a day rich in history, mystery, and memorable exploration.

• Small group experience at Stonehenge
• Free time to enjoy lunch at your leisure

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  best Stonehenge tours to take and why .

9 . Harry Potter Studios with Exclusive Champagne Reception

London Harry Potter Walking Tour

You could wander through the streets of London trying to follow a random blog article’s recommendation to find Harry Potter’s filming sites. Or you could book a guided tour with a local Potterhead who knows just where to go and how to get there easily. From Lambeth Bridge to Southwark, see where Diagon Alley was filmed and the location for the Ministry of Magic (and much more).

Warner Brothers Studio

This is where booking a guide really comes in handy for a Harry Potter day tour. You can hop in a vehicle and let your guide easily take you to the famous Warner Brothers Studio outside of the city. Make your Harry Potter tour in London easy by leaving the details to us so you can just enjoy a few hours exploring the Harry Potter sets and gift shop here.

Then head back to London to depart at Platform 9 3/4! For Harry Potter lovers, the best London tours to take just don’t get any better!

• Guided walking tour of top Harry Potter sites
• See Diagon Alley, Ministry of Magic, Platform 9 3/4 and more
• Free time at Warner Brothers Studio to see Harry Potter sets and shop
• Round-trip transportation

1 0 . The Ultimate London Speedboat Adventure

Looking for a thrill? You might not envision an adventure activity in the heart of London, but here it is! Hop aboard one of London’s speedboats on the River Thames. You’ll zoom from one iconic monument to the next on an 800-horsepower speedboat. Best of all, your skipper is quite entertaining, so you’re sure to love the stories you hear as you take in the Shard, the Globe, London Eye, Big Ben, Tower Bridge, and more.

• 800-horsepower speedboat with a skipper
• Guided tour of River Thames sites
• See Big Ben, London Eye, Tower Bridge, and more

Find the best places to stay

Where To Stay in London

Deciding where to stay at a great hotel in London can take some effort since it’s a massive city. Make your decision easier with our list of the best neighborhoods and hotels in London.

Recently on the Blog

Are 4 days in paris enough, 8 amazing day trips from florence, are 3 days in paris enough, where to stay in phoenix in 2024: best neighborhoods and hotels, the best 10 things to do in phoenix, arizona in 2024.

About Brie Greenhalgh

Writer, editor, teacher, hiker, traveler, dreamer. With a book or pen in hand and a majestic sunset on the horizon, life is never short of fulfilling moments for Brie. She has a background in history and writing, and enjoys writing and editing for BobVila.com, The Tour Guy, and her own business.

Reader Interactions

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Travel Blog
• In The Press

POLICY & TERMS

• Cancellation Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy

London tours

London is a true multi-cultural city that’s easy to fall in love with. From its iconic landmarks to world-class museums—discover Great Britain’s most dynamic city on our trips to London.

4.7 out of 5 stars

4.6 out of 5 stars

4.3 out of 5 stars

4.4 out of 5 stars

4.5 out of 5 stars

4 out of 5 stars

Get paired with your perfect tour

Answer six questions and we’ll narrow down our 175+ tours to just a few that are made for you.

Already booked? Add excursions!

Add handpicked experiences to dive deeper into culture, and stay longer on the tour extension.

Combine your Club Go credits

If you have an account, you’re part of Club Go—and you earn rewards after every trip.

Group travel made easy

We offer 200+ immersive, guided tours around the world. Wherever you choose to go, you’ll enjoy lots of advantages that make traveling with us different.

That’s all it takes to secure a spot on one of our group tours when you sign up for AutoPay . Plus, you can pay in interest-free, monthly installments.

While you’re deciding what to take, we’ll be busy arranging your hotels, meals, tickets, and more tour essentials. That’s what going guided is all about .

Take off on your big adventure— but why stop there? Every trip you book with us earns rewards that you can use to keep expanding your horizons.

Talk to a travel expert to find the perfect London tour

Chat online.

Chat instantly with us during our normal hours, or leave a message and we'll get back to you ASAP.

Schedule a call

Let us know your preferred time to chat and a travel expert will reach out.

Schedule now

We're available every day from our offices in Boston and Denver at 1-800-590-1161

What travelers say about their London tours

Travel tips for london trips.

One of our favorite parts about our London tours is that it’s always a good time to take one. Despite being farther north than much of North America, England has a temperate climate—which means tours to London are enjoyable any time of the year.

Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds at the most popular sites, making the off-season a perfect time to visit England. Winter offers plenty of charm, especially when Christmas markets line the streets in London and around the country.

No matter what time of year you plan to travel to London, expect some rain—but don’t let it keep you from enjoying this beautiful destination! Just have your wellies with you (that’s British for “rain boots”).

The top attractions for all London trips include:

• Buckingham Palace. A trip to the enormous royal residence is a must for all London tours. Be sure to catch the famous Changing of the Guard!
• London Eye. This iconic ferris wheel boasts the best views of the city. It’s even air-conditioned.
• Big Ben. This is the famous clock attached to the Palace of Westminster. You’ll get the best view from the Westminster Bridge.

Check out our London Travel Guide for a full list of the top attractions we feature in our London tour packages.

There are infinite things to pass the time on our London tours , but some of our favorites include:

• Shopping at Harrods, the United Kingdom’s largest department store
• Sipping tea at Kensington Palace’s Orangery, a stunning Victorian-era setting for a midday snack
• Strolling through Trafalgar Square and appreciating the art inside The National Gallery
• Crossing Abbey Road, the famous location where the Beatles took their iconic photo
• Perusing vintage books, antiques, and street food at Portobello Road Market
• Eating fish and chips at Rules, London’s oldest restaurant

Our escorted tours of London, like The City Experience , are your sure-fire way to make the most of your time there.

Here’s what to pack for a tour in London:

• A windproof umbrella and raincoat. London has its fair share of drizzly conditions throughout the year (it’s part of the quintessential London experience!), and being prepared for rain means being prepared for wind.
• A comfortable backpack. That way, you’ll always have what you need, no matter what.
• Lots of layers. The weather in London turns fast, and layers are a great way to make sure you’re always comfortable.
• UK power adapter. This three-pronged adapter is different from the two-prong European adapter, so make sure you order the right one before departing on our London tours. This guide to power adapters and converters can help.

Apart from the famous fish and chips, you can’t go wrong with a traditional Sunday roast with Yorkshire pudding (popovers), roasted potatoes, and a vegetable on the side.

Meat pies are another popular food in London. The ingredients inside a meat pie can vary, but there are always three main options: beef, mushrooms, and good English ale.

And while it’s not necessarily a food, no trip to London is complete without trying a traditional afternoon tea. There are hundreds of teas to choose from in England, and you’ll typically enjoy them alongside light sandwiches, scones, or pastries. Yum!

If you're going to spend a fair amount of free time in London, you may benefit from purchasing The London Pass. It's around £75 for a day pass, but is very worth it if you plan to visit several of the city's attractions in a short period of time!

And remember: people in England drive on the opposite side of the road than we're used to, so please to look both ways before crossing the street on our London tours!

Our London Travel Guide will answer all your questions. It’s full of the top travel tips, including what to see, what to do, and what to know.

One of the perks of going guided is that you’ll see the top sites without planning a thing or worrying about transportation. Along the way, your expert local guide will dive deep into the history and culture of the city, as well.

Another benefit of our London group tours is meeting some incredible people along the way. You’ll see the city alongside new friends in your group, and get to know our guides as they share unique perspectives on London.

And, with all kinds of excursions and opportunities to explore during free time, our London guided tours give you plenty of time to set off on your own, too.

See the latest from our travelers @goaheadtours

Travel inspiration

Accept cookies?

We use cook ies  to give you the best online experience and to show personalised content and marketing. We use them to improve our website and content as well as to tailor our digital advertising on third-party platforms. You can change your preferences at any time.  

Popular search terms:

• British wildlife
• Wildlife Photographer of the Year
• Explore the Museum

Virtual Museum: 13 ways to explore from home

Delve into the Museum from home with a virtual self-guided tour of the galleries, an interactive experience about Hope the blue whale and audio guides narrated by Sir David Attenborough.

1. Stroll around the Fantastic Beasts™: The Wonder of Nature exhibition

Although the exhibition at the Museum closed on 3 January 2022, you can still step into an online world full of fantastic real-life and magical beasts. There are highlights, stories and games galore. 

Walk around the exhibition from home with a 360° virtual tour on Google Arts & Culture.

2.  Take a deep dive into the life of a blue whale

Explore the rich history of Hope, the blue whale suspended from the ceiling in Hintze Hall. In this online interactive, see what her life was like in the ocean, find out how she got to her home in the Museum and get a behind-the-scenes peek of the Museum's collections.

Go one step further by viewing the skeleton in augmented reality (AR) with Google Arts & Culture. 

3. Hang out with scientists online

Catch up on all the Nature Live Online talks featuring topical discussions with our scientists and cutting-edge research. 

Free event recordings. 

Image:  NASA .

4.  Sound choices: listen to these podcasts

Every year the Museum attracts millions of curious visitors eager to learn about the natural world.

Bring that curiosity home, and learn more about natural history, science, and the world around you with these great podcasts. 

5.  Let Sir David Attenborough guide you around Hintze Hall

Sir David's unmistakable voice and expertise on all things nature make him the perfect person to take you on a tour of Hintze Hall's star specimens (including the blue marlin), all from the comfort of home.

6.  Go on a virtual tour of the Museum

Google Arts & Culture gives you access to 300,000 specimens within the Museum's collections, along with 35 digital exhibitions , virtual tours and an interactive gigapixel photo (so enormous you can zoom in on the tiniest detail) of Hintze Hall's gilded canopy. 

7.  Flick through Wildlife Photographer of the Year images

Explore the exhibition at your own pace in this online gallery filled with stunning nature photographs. 

8.  Watch us on the small screen

The Museum's stunning architecture has made it a popular choice as a filming location for everything from blockbuster movies to TV dramas.

Discover which films and television shows feature the Museum.

Paddington (2014)

9. Examine a 3D model of Dippy's skull

Get up close to the skull of the Museum's iconic Diplodocus cast produced by our Imaging and Analysis Centre. See more 3D models on Sketchfab , including Darwin's fossil mammals and the Crystal Palace sculptures .

10. See illustrations from HMS Endeavour

Our collection of botanical illustrations from HMS Endeavour make up some of the most scientifically significant artworks in our archive. It features works by Sydney Parkinson .

11.  Browse the Library and Archives digital collections

Dig deep into the archives, where you'll find scientifically important art, books, prints and manuscripts, including drawings by William Smith and brothers Franz and Ferdinand Bauer.

12. Uncover highlights from the collections

We've wrapped up some of the highlights from the collections on display including specimens from space , the spirit collection , Charles Darwin and the Treasures gallery .

Discover more stories from the collections  including stories from the Museum at Tring .

13. Zoom in on beetles

Open the drawers and zoom in on 16 Coleoptera collections held at the Museum including those from Thomas Broun (1838-1919), David Sharp (1840-1922) and Charles O. Waterhouse (1843-1917).

Find out more about the  Entomology collections .

Virtual expeditions with our scientists

What is it like to go on a dino dig?

Explore an interactive story about Museum experts' adventure to Wyoming, USA, when they went off-grid in search of Jurassic dinosaurs.

Explore a 360 panorama of Antarctica

Join Dr Adrian Glover as he journeys to the site of a collapsed Antarctic ice shelf. Experience the awe-inspiring view from the ship deck.

Let the exploration continue

Enjoy nature on your doorstep

Find activities and ideas to occupy yourself and family at home, in your garden or local outdoor space.

Try this at home

Discover more stories from the collections

Uncover colourful stories behind the specimens, meet collectors and curators past and present and read about their contributions to our understanding of the natural world. 

Teaching resources

A range of downloadable educational curriculum-linked resources that you can adapt for home use.

Find out more

Don't miss a thing.

Receive email updates about our news, science, exhibitions, events, products, services and fundraising activities. We may occasionally include third-party content from our corporate partners and other museums. We will not share your personal details with these third parties. You must be over the age of 13. Privacy notice .

Follow us on social media

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best of London for free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy London without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Attractions
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

All the Taylor Swift events and parties happening in London for the Eras Tour

From drag brunches and quizzes to party buses and mini-golf, the capital is officially entering its Eras Tour era

Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour isn’t just any world tour. So far, it’s boosted economies by millions of pounds, created literal shockwaves and has spawned hundreds of spin-off parties in each and every city she’s performed in.

After stopping off in North and South America, Australia and parts of Europe, soon it will be London’s turn to host the Eras Tour . If you’re heading to the real thing and just want to warm up your vocal chords for ‘All Too Well (10 Minute Version) (Taylor’s Version)’ or you missed out on tickets but still want to get your Eras fix, here’s our comprehensive roundup of all the Swiftie shindigs happening across the city. 

RECOMMENDED: 🏡  You can stay in these official Taylor Swift Eras Tour-inspired Airbnbs in London . 🎤  Taylor Swift in the UK: Eras Tour timings, setlist and everything you need to know .

T aylor Swift events and parties in London

Pop never dies, taylor’s version at the waiting room.

London’s best pop music night will put on a tribute to Tay at the Waiting Room in Stoke Newington during the run-up to her shows in the capital. Their resident DJs will be spinning the Swift tracks we know all too well all night long in Friday June 7. It’s going to be a proper knees up. Get tickets online here . 

Taylor Swift Themed Quiz at Waterstones Piccadilly

Who does the red scarf belong to? What's Tay’s lucky number? Were these words written by Swift or Shakespeare? Put your Swiftie knowledge to the test at this quiz hosted by author Kat McKenna at Waterstones Piccadilly. Stick around after the quiz is over to take part in some friendship bracelet making. It’s happening on June 11 at 6.30pm. You can secure your place here . 

Swiftageddon

The OG of Taylor raves. In its own words, this clubnight is ‘dedicated to worshipping at the altar of Taylor Swift’ and has organised a bunch of pre-parties at Troxy ahead of the main event. It’ll start with a night dedicated to the songs of  Fearless, Speak Now  and  Red  on Friday, June 7 then pay homage to 1989 ,  Reputation, folklore  and  Lover  on Saturday, June 8, followed by  Debut, evermore, Midnights  and  The Tortured Poets Department  on June 15.  You can book your ticket here . 

Taylor Swift Drag Brunch at OXBO Bankside 

Die hard Swiftie Sofia Stardust will be polishing up real nice and hosting a one-off Taylor-themed bottomless drag brunch at OXBO Bankside on Saturday, June 29. Expect live renditions of Tay’s biggest hits, Eras-inspired desserts and cocktails and a game of Swiftie bingo with prizes.

Tickets start at £42 per person and can be booked on the OXBO website . 

Swiftie brunch and minigolf at Puttshack 

Score a hole in one while belting out ‘Anti-Hero’ at Puttshack’s brunch dedicated to all things Taylor on Sunday, June 23. Treat yourself to bottomless bubbly, beer and mocktails plus a round a mini-golf soundtracked by non-stop Swift and a performances from a few drag queen. Get yourself a spot here .  

Taylor Swift brunch at Ballie Ballerson

You know what they say: you can never have too many Taylor Swift brunches. This one actually happens every single Saturday, not just when the Eras tour is in town. As you dance to ‘Shake It Off’, ‘Love Story’ and ‘Cruel Summer’, you'll get to enjoy bottomless pizza, down unlimited drinks and, of course, dive into a gigantic ball pit. Reserve a spot over on the Ballie Ballerson site . 

Swiftie Tour with London Bar Bus

Scream Taylor’s most iconic lyrics over the streets on London on board this travelling rooftop bar. Every Friday and Saturday from June 1 to 22, Tootbus’ Bar Bus will be transformed into a Swiftie-mobile. There will be Eras-inspired drinks and cupcakes, plus a playlist that follows Taylor’s career from small country songwriter to huge global superstar. All aboard here . 

The Treehouse Era at Treehouse Hotel London

If you're still after somewhere to stay for your Eras experience, why not go the whole hog and book an entire Taylor Swift package at the Treehouse Hotel. For the nights of June 21-23 and August 15-20, the hotel is offering Swifties a package that includes transfers to and from the concert, a selection of friendship bracelets and tinted glasses, plus a £30 food and beverage credit so you can get breakfast at midnight post gig. 

Tempted? The offers starts at £445 per room and you can book here . 

Eras Tour fanparks at Boxpark

Boxpark Wembley will host warm-up parties for all eight of Taylor’s shows at the London stadium. The 2,000 cap venue will have glitter stations, DJs spinning all of Tay Tay’s best tracks, live performers, Swift-themed cocktails and loads of street food. 

You can grab tickets for the Taylor Swift fanpark online here . 

Club de Fromage Afterparty

Head to the O2 Academy in Islington on June 22 and/or August 17 for an unofficial Eras afterparty. As per the cheesy clubnight’s normal offering, you can expect confetti cannons, balloons, hula hooping and deafening singalongs to all of Taylor's greatest hits. Book here . 

Heaven Afterparty 

If three hours of back to back Taylor on the Eras tour just isn’t long enough for you, try five hours at Heaven’s Eras Afterparty on June 23. Tickets start at just £5 . 

Eras fever  

If that wasn’t enough Taylor for you, we’ve got plenty more. Check out London’s  Taylor Swift walking tours , these Taylor-inspired Airbnbs , the south London pub featured on her latest album and all the other spots in that capital that  have been referenced in her songs . Plus, here’s our ultimate guide to the UK leg of the Eras Tour . 

ICYMI:   The World Naked Bike Ride returns to London this weekend .

Plus:   A huge Yayoi Kusama pumpkin is coming to the Serpentine .

Stay in the loop: sign up to our   free Time Out London newsletter   for the best of the city, straight to your inbox.

• Amy Houghton Contributing writer

Share the story

An email you’ll actually love

Popular on Time Out

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Claim your listing
• Time Out Offers FAQ
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

Time Out products

• Time Out Offers
• Time Out Worldwide

National Museum of Natural History Virtual Tours

Access the tours.

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History virtual tours allow visitors to take self-guided, room-by-room tours of select exhibits and areas within the museum from their desktop or mobile device. Visitors can also access select collections and research areas at our satellite support and research stations as well as past exhibits no longer on display.

Virtual Tour Tips

• To navigate between adjoining rooms in the tours, click on the blue arrow links on the floor or use the navigation map in the upper right of the presentation screen.
• Look for the camera icon which gives you a close-up view of a particular object or exhibit panel.
• Try zooming in as some of the images are stitched together from individual pictures in order to create very high resolution gigapixel images.

Please note: This tour and these presentations have been tested and should work on all common devices, browsers, and operating systems (using a desktop computer with Windows, Mac, Linux or a mobile device such as an iPhone, iPad, or Android). Functionality and appearance may vary as it will adjust automatically to accommodate the most visitors. While the virtual tour has no advertising, ad blocking software or browser settings that block JavaScript and/or XML may interfere with the functionality of the virtual tour. Please let us know what you think of the tour and how the experience can be improved. Send your feedback to the NMNH Web Team .

Site Credit: Imagery and coding by Loren Ybarrondo

Equipment Used: Professional Nikon digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera bodies and lenses. The photography is typically done using rectilinear lenses with minimized distortion and shooting equirectangular panoramas at 22K pixels on the long side.

Software Used: No authoring software is used. The tours are hand-coded in HTML5 and JavaScript using the krpano graphics library.

• Smithsonian Institution
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Host an Event

Europe Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 18, 2024

From beautiful Paris to smoke-filled coffeeshops in Amsterdam, Oktoberfest to La Tomatina, Europe is a massive, diverse continent with an unlimited assortment of things to see and do. You won’t have any problem filling your time, whether you’re backpacking Europe for a few months on a budget or just spending a few weeks there on a well-earned vacation.

The continent boasts wonderful beaches, historical architecture, amazing wine, and tons of world-class festivals. Every country is incredibly different from the next too, providing limitless variety in what you do during your trip.

I first backpacked Europe in 2006 and was hooked immediately. I’ve been visiting every year since, have run tours around the continent, and even wrote a book on traveling in Europe . It’s a destination I love and never get tired of exploring.

This guide will give you an overview of Europe and the tips and tricks you need to start planning your trip. I’ve also written extensive travel guides to each country on the continent (linked below in this post) so you can get more in-depth information for your specific itinerary too!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Europe

Click Here for Country Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in europe.

1. Tour the Greek Islands

These islands are the mecca of summer beach fun and each is unique in its own great way. There’s Ios (beach party central with archeological ruins and awesome boat tours); Kos (ancient ruins and nature); Crete (Bronze Age ruins of Knossos, hiking, beaches, and wine), Santorini (iconic blue water, white buildings, and local wineries); Mykonos , (the upscale party island with beautiful beaches, villages, and sunsets), Naxos (best island in the Cyclades). Plus, Milos, Corfu, Lemnos, Zakynthos, and so many more! With hundreds of islands in the country, you can always find what you are looking for!

2. Ride the rails

Europe is famous for its international rail system. Rail passes like the Eurail Pass have been around forever and still make it very easy to get from country to country on a relatively small budget (and with lots of flexibility). Europe has some of the fastest trains in the world that travel up to an incredible 217 mph (350 kph). The whole continent is connected by trains and there’s a growing push for even more connections and long-distance, high-speed trains in order to reduce flying and help combat climate change. There’s nothing more quintessential than riding the trains in Europe and I encourage you to take as many trains as possible. It’s one of the best ways to see the continent.

3. Get lost in Paris

The “City of Lights” is everything people say it is. I fell in love with it the first time I stepped foot in Paris . The city is just magical. You have a ton of museums, cafes, jazz clubs, famous art, and beautiful architecture. I love just strolling around the streets of the Quartier Latin (Latin Quarter) or Montmartre neighborhood as it makes for a breathtaking day. Another one of my favorite things to do here is just sit in the Jardin des Champs-Élysées park and picnic like the Parisians. For something a bit different, check out the famous Catacombs and Paris Sewer Museum. With so much to offer in the way of culture, history, and gastronomy, it would take years to see everything here but you can still get a good feel of the city in a few days.

4. Go city hopping

There are so many amazing cities in Europe that we’d need a top 100 to list them all. Here are some of my personal favorites and must-see cities: London is rich in history, culture, and the famous Big Ben clock; Edinburgh is a vibrant medieval city with cozy pubs and a famous castle with a huge New Year’s Eve Party; Amsterdam has cozy coffee shops and canopied tree-covered canals; Berlin has a wild party scene, street art, and the Berlin Wall; Barcelona has tapas, beach, and unique Gaudi architecture; coastal Lisbon has colorful tiles, old tramcars, cobblestone streets and plenty of fresh seafood; Prague has a beautiful intact Old Town, incredible architecture and eclectic bars; Tallinn Estonia has beautiful medieval buildings with colorful roofs. Florence  is a mecca for Italian Renaissance architecture, art history, and gelato; Stockholm mixes medieval architecture and modern art and design. Crisscross the continent, take in the culture, and enjoy all the historic cities!

5. Hit the Alps

Whether you go skiing in the winter or hiking in the summer, the Alps hold some of the most breathtaking views in all the world. You don’t even need to be an expert hiker because there are mountain trails for all levels and crystal-clear Alpine lakes. Check out the spectacular Eibsee trail loop in Bavaria at the foot of Die Zugspitze, Germany’s tallest mountain, for the clearest, multi-colored, sparkling lake you’ve ever seen. Or the Männlichen Kleine Scheidegg Panorama trail in Switzerland’s stunning green and snow-capped Alps. Or visit Italy’s Dolomites in South Tyrol for the scenic Seceda trail. The Alps have trails for every fitness level and in every season.

Other Things to See and Do in Europe

1. tour amsterdam.

I love Amsterdam so much that I lived here for a short period of time in 2006. Here cobblestone and brick streets weave around lovely canals as people ride their bikes to and fro. My favorite things to enjoy here are Amsterdam’s vibrant art and music scene and there are also a ton of interesting museums here like the Anne Frank House, FOAM, the history museum, and the hemp museum. Be sure you get out of the center into Jordaan and Oost with their wonderful outdoor cafes and fewer tourists. Also, a visit to Amsterdam wouldn’t be complete without a canal cruise to visit the many islands and there are many to choose from that include snacks and drinks, sunset cruises, live guided tours, and more.

2. Hang out in Barcelona

Barcelona is a city that goes 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It truly could give NYC a run for the “city that never sleeps” title. Be prepared for late-night dinners and parties until dawn. Besides a great food and nightlife scene, there is a wonderful beach, tons of Gaudi architecture (including the fairytale-like Parc Güell, as well as the iconic Sagrada Familia , which has been under construction for over 100 years!), incredible food tours, one of the best history museums in the country, and lots of outdoor spaces. What I love about Barcelona is that when you’re ready to chill, you can wander around Parc de la Ciutadella and marvel at the majestic fountains, plant life, and buildings created from an ornate military fortress.

3. Visit Berlin

Hip and trendy Berlin is an energetic destination. It is one of Europe’s most affordable capital cities, with a vibrant music and art scene and a growing foodie movement. Be sure to spend some time learning about the city’s darker history via the many excellent museums, memorials, and landmarks. The East Side Gallery, a section of the Berlin Wall that’s now painted with murals, and the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe are two especially powerful reminders of Germany’s past. For all periods of German history, don’t miss the Deutsches Historisches Museum (German Historical Museum) – it’s one of the best history museums in the world. Once you’ve had your fill of history, relax in Berlin’s many green spaces, from Tempelhof Field, the site of a former airfield and popular local hangout spot, to Tiergarten, a tree-covered former hunting ground for 17th-century aristocrats.

4. Drink beer at Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is a must for anyone going to Germany at the end of September. While not a budget option since beers now cost 15 € a maß, I love the energy and friendly camaraderie this event inspires. For two weeks, millions of people from all over the world gather for lots of beer, excitement, music, and wild fun. Watching thousands of people sing together, raising quart-sized beer mugs for endless toasts, and enjoying the general party atmosphere makes you feel good about the world. (Or maybe that’s just the beer?) Just be sure to book your accommodation well in advance and be prepared to pay top prices for them. If you don’t have an outfit, don’t worry, there are plenty of shops even at the main train station where you can buy a Bavarian dirndl dress and men’s lederhosen.

5. Experience London

Get a taste of English culture in diverse London . The museums here are some of the best in the world (most are free) and include the Tate, the British Museum, the City Museum, the National Gallery, the Historical Museum. There’s no shortage of iconic sights here as well, with Big Ben, the House of Parliament, the London Eye, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and of course, Buckingham Palace. I love London’s diversity because of the countless international eateries with great food and wonderful pub culture, perfect for after a long day seeing the sights. Head to Brick Lane on the weekends for some amazing food and craft markets. I prefer Paris to London, but there is something sophisticated and fun about London. Just watch those pints — London is not a cheap destination!

6. Get outdoors in Scandinavia

My favorite region in Europe is Scandinavia. The quality of life here is high, the people are beautiful and friendly, and the cities are clean and historic. Cycling the cities, taking canal tours, hiking the vast forested areas, archipelago hopping, enjoying fika (a Swedish coffee break), and warming up in saunas are just a few of the popular activities that await you here. True, this area of Europe is not cheap, but there are plenty of ways to reduce your expenses. Don’t let the high prices scare you away. Highlights for me include Copenhagen , Stockholm , Gotland, Norway’s fjords, and Lapland in Finland .

7. Get enchanted in Prague

Prague has an amazing history and is one of the most beautiful and picturesque cities I’ve ever seen. Highlights include the 9th-century Prague Castle, the magnificent Charles Bridge (built in the 14th century and one of the oldest standing bridges in the world), the 10th-century old square with its iconic astronomical clock, and the winding Jewish Quarter. Even if you only have a few days there don’t miss the free walking tour which is one of my favorites in Europe and the best way to learn about the Old Town and the tragic history of the city that went from thriving Bohemian capital of art, music, and literature to part of the Iron Curtain after WWII. Some of my favorite gems here include the fantastic black light theater shows in 4D and the one-of-a-kind medieval dinner show in an old tavern complete with musicians and jugglers not to mention hearty food and drinks. During the weekends it heaves with people enjoying the bars, cheap beer, and delicious food so try to visit during the week (and in the spring or fall) to beat the crowds.

8. Relax on the French Riviera

Here, you can pretend to live the high life for a little bit. Have fun in the sun, relax on the beach, swim in azure blue water, hobnob with the rich and famous, and sail on (or gaze at) gigantic yachts. As for cities, Nice is nice with its palm-tree-lined promenade, old town, and many art museums. If you want to go see how the rich and famous live, spend an afternoon checking out Cannes to soak up some glamorous vibes on La Croisette where they hold the famous Cannes Film Festival. The kingdom of Monaco with its tiny streets, beautiful buildings, and world-famous casino is just a skip away too.

9. Enjoy the great outdoors in Interlaken

Located in the beautiful mountains of Switzerland, Interlaken is a gorgeous place to unwind with fantastic hiking, delicious hot chocolate, and plenty of outdoor sports. The area is full of natural attractions to explore, including the St. Beatus Caves (complete with a legendary dragon), the cascading 500-meter-high (1,640 feet) Giessbach Waterfalls, the Jungfraujoch mountain railway (which leads to the highest train station on the continent), and a plethora of lakes (hence the town’s name). It’s a good alternative to all the cities and museums. Interlaken is also a popular party destination for backpackers and other young travelers. By far, my favorite scenic and visually stunning trail was the Oberberghorn panoramic hike, where you can wander the green mountain ridge ogling the amazing views and the turquoise-blue Brienzersee.

10. Experience history in Rome

In this thriving historical city, you can’t walk two feet without stumbling over a ruin, making Rome a history buff’s dream. Its tiny streets are perfect for wandering as you explore the Colosseum, see the Forum and Palatine Hill, visit the Pantheon, spend time in Vatican City, admire the Spanish Steps, and toss coins into the famous Trevi Fountain. The skip-the-line tickets can definitely be worth it so you don’t waste time waiting outside attractions. Rome also has amazing food (it’s Italy, after all) and nightlife. Visit the Trastevere area for a taste of “local” Rome and chill bars. It’s my favorite area in the city because you feel like you’re in a small village in the middle of a big city.

11. Hike around the Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is my favorite part of Italy. These five beautiful cliffside towns are perched near warm waters and beautiful olive and grape groves. There are wondrous and strenuous hikes in these hills; for a real challenge, take trail #8. Or just walk the coastline for something less difficult. Many activities here revolve around the coastline: kayaking, swimming, having a beach picnic or visiting the Technical Naval Museum. If you happen to be here in December or January, don’t miss the Nativity Manarola, the world’s biggest lighted nativity scene.

12. Tour Krakow

Krakow looks like it stepped out of a medieval postcard. It’s a hip, trendy, and youthful city that’s the center of education in Poland, meaning there are a lot of university students here. Most travelers come to party here (the vodka is cheap) but try to enjoy the city’s history and food besides just the bars. Walk the Royal Road through the Old Town to the 13th-century Wawel Castle, tour Schindler’s Factory (where Schindler saved over 1,200 Jews during World War II), and visit the sobering Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp. You can also take a fascinating day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Wieliczka Salt Mine, a 13th-century mine with cavernous chambers, statues, chapels, chandeliers, and cathedrals all carved out of salt.

13. Visit the ruin bars in Budapest

The coolest nightlife in all of Europe is found in Budapest . Built in abandoned buildings, ruin bars feature funky art installations, repurposed furniture, and quirky decor. They are amazing, fun, and great places to meet locals, as people of all ages flock here. Open since 2001, Szimpla Kert is the original ruin bar and one of my favorites, along with Instant-Fogas Complex, which takes up an entire building and is actually many different bars in one. Don’t skip the ruin bars — they’re one of the most unique things about the city!

14. Explore Cornwall

The best part of England is outside London, yet unfortunately, not a lot of travelers leave London. Head west to the area of Cornwall for cheaper prices, welcoming locals, natural beauty, great hiking, rolling hills, plenty of medieval castles, and picturesque small towns. If you like biking, the Camel Trail from Bodmin to Padstow is worth the trip and you even pass by a local vineyard. It’s an easy way to spend a day (and it’s pretty flat so it’s not too hard to do.) Plus, I had the best fish and chips in Cornwall! Overall, it’s what you think of as “traditional England.”

15. Walk the Camino

El Camino de Santiago (The Way of Saint James) is an ancient pilgrimage route that stretches from France all the way across northern Spain. It is a 500 mile (800 km) trail that winds through incredible terrain, ending in Santiago de Compostela at the cathedral where St. James is supposedly buried. As a pilgrim, you get a “pilgrim’s passport” which allows you to stay in affordable pilgrim-only hostels, making this a surprisingly budget-friendly adventure. While it usually takes over a month to complete, you can just walk a section if you don’t have the time. To receive a “Compostela” (certificate of completion), you just need to walk the last 62 miles (100 km), which generally takes 4-5 days.

16. Throw tomatoes during La Tomatina

By far my favorite festival, the largest food fight in the world happens during the last Wednesday of August in Bunol, Spain. What started in 1945 as a local brawl has turned into a massive event drawing tens of thousands of people from all over the world. For about an hour, everyone throws tomatoes at each other, leaving streets ankle-deep in tomato juice. Afterward, everyone walks down to the river, cleans off, and then heads to the town square for sangria and music.

17. Find Dracula in Romania

Not a lot of people visit Romania but this underrated country in Eastern Europe has undiscovered yet picturesque medieval towns like Brasov (home to “Dracula’s castle”), Sighisoara, and Sibiu; gorgeous beaches on the Black Sea; and incredible hiking in the Fagaras Mountains — all at dirt-cheap prices. Other major sights include frescoed Byzantine monasteries, the steepled wooden churches of Transylvania, the hip university town Cluj-Napoca, the post-communist capital of Bucharest, and the Danube Delta, a huge nature reserve.

18. Drink whisky in Islay

Whisky has a long history on Islay , an island off Scotland’s west coast. It’s been made there since the 16th-century — first in backyards and then, starting in the 19th-century, in large distilleries. Over the years, whisky from the island came to be considered a specialty and was used to flavor a lot of other blends on the mainland. There are currently nine working distilleries on the island, all located along the island’s shores, with Laphroaig, Ardbeg, and Lagavulin being the most famous. Most distilleries here make single-malt Scotch, meaning that only one type of grain (barley) is used. My visit here was amazing and, even if you don’t like whisky, there are tons of good hikes and walks throughout this magnificent island.

19. Explore Iceland

Iceland is a magical country with majestic waterfalls, hidden hot springs around every corner, and sweeping vistas unlike anywhere else in the world. After my first visit, the country quickly became one of my favorite countries. With whale watching in the summer, the northern lights in the winter, and geothermal baths for soaking in year-round, there really is no bad time to visit! While Iceland’s main draw is the epic natural landscapes, it’s worth spending a couple of days in Reykjavik with its café culture, artsy feel, and brightly colored wooden row houses.

20. Sail the Croatian coast

With calm winds, short distances, a coastline littered with over 1,000 islands, and countless historical sites, Croatia is one of the world’s best sailing destinations. If you can, go during the shoulder season when you can find some great deals. Plan to stay at least a couple of days on one of the islands, with the most popular being Brac, Hvar, Krk, Cres, and Lošinj. However, don’t be afraid to get off the beaten path and explore some of the lesser-known islands such as Silba, Vis, and Lastovo. If you want to splash out and spend a week partying on a yacht, check out The Yacht Week, which hosts week-long parties, complete with DJs, from May-September. You can book a full boat to share with friends or just a cabin if you’re traveling solo. Prices start at 5,250 HRK per person and go up to 9,300 HRK.

21. Explore the Balkans

While the Balkans have become more popular with backpackers in recent years, it’s still largely overlooked by most budget travelers, despite being an extremely budget-friendly region. The Balkan peninsula is home to great (and again, overlooked) wine, beautiful medieval towns like Kotor and Mostar, stunning mountainous landscapes, beautiful pebble beaches, coffee culture, fresh, hearty yet inexpensive food, and museums covering the area’s history, including the most recent turbulent events of the early 1990s. I especially loved my time in Albania . Don’t miss the beautiful beaches in Ksamil, nicknamed the “Maldives of Europe’ as well as the mountain village of Gjirokastër, which was occupied by Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. The Balkans have so much to offer for every budget and every country has its unique cultural flavor.

22. Take a wine tour in the Loire Valley

Located in central France, the picturesque Loire Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site and stretches 280 kilometers (174 miles) along the Loire River. One of the major wine-producing regions of France, the area is home to some of the best wines in the world, with over 1,000 vineyards open to the public. Even those who don’t drink wine will enjoy the beautiful small towns, great food, and the region’s over 300 impressive chateaux. I loved the medieval Chenonceau Castle and Chateau Villandry and the small villages like Saint-Florent-le-Vieil. Spring and Autumn are my favorite times to visit because you can go biking and do outdoor activities when it’s not too hot and there are fewer people. It’s an area not to be missed.

23. See Fado in Portugal

Fado is an important musical tradition in Portugal , originating in Lisbon and stretching back some 200 years. The word “fado” likely stems from the Latin word for fate, and it’s very haunting, poetic, and emotional music. Most of the songs follow themes of loss and mourning, and the music was popular with the working class (especially sailors). Performances normally take place in restaurants during dinner. In Lisbon, head to Clube de Fado, Tasca do Chico, Parreirinha de Alfama, or Senhor Vinho.

24. Tour green Slovenia

Slovenia is one of Europe’s least-visited destinations, which is mind-blowing to me because it’s an amazing place to visit. Slovenia offers all the beauty of Western Europe but at a fraction of the cost and with a fraction of the crowds. Perfect for outdoor adventure lovers, Slovenia offers rugged mountains, untouched landscapes, fantastic ski resorts, plentiful wine, sprawling cave systems, incredible food, and postcard-perfect lakes, such as the famous Lake Bled with its castle on an island. I loved Piran, Slovenia’s often overlooked coastal Venetian-style harbor town that was actually founded 3000 years ago. Stroll around its beautiful windy cobble-stoned streets, beautiful plazas, and take advantage of the many affordable restaurants right on the water. Make sure to also spend a few days in the country’s capital, Ljubljana, known as one of the continent’s greenest and most livable cities. Take a river cruise to see the city and enjoy the friendliness of the locals.

  For more information on specific countries in Europe, check out the guides below:

• Albania Travel Guide
• Austria Travel Guide
• Belgium Travel Guide
• Belarus Travel Guide
• Bosnia & Herzegovina Travel Guide
• Bulgaria Travel Guide
• Czechia Travel Guide
• Croatia Travel Guide
• Denmark Travel Guide
• England Travel Guide
• Estonia Travel Guide
• Finland Travel Guide
• France Travel Guide
• Germany Travel Guide
• Greece Travel Guide
• Hungary Travel Guide
• Iceland Travel Guide
• Ireland Travel Guide
• Italy Travel Guide
• Latvia Travel Guide
• Lithuania Travel Guide
• Malta Travel Guide
• Moldova Travel Guide
• Montenegro Travel Guide
• Netherlands Travel Guide
• Norway Travel Guide
• Portugal Travel Guide
• Poland Travel Guide
• Romania Travel Guide
• Scotland Travel Guide
• Slovakia Travel Guide
• Slovenia Travel Guide
• Spain Travel Guide
• Sweden Travel Guide
• Switzerland Travel Guide
• Ukraine Travel Guide

Europe Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation prices vary greatly by region. In Western Europe, hostel dorm rooms cost between 25-45 EUR per night, depending on the room’s size and the popularity of the hostel. I stayed in a 6-bed dorm in Berlin for 20 EUR, while the same one would have cost me around 45 EUR in Paris. A room in Paris costs on the higher end and a room in cheaper Athens costs on the lower end.

In Eastern Europe, hostel dorm rooms cost between 10-15 EUR per night depending on the size of the dorm room and the popularity of the hostel. The further east you go, the cheaper it gets. Expect to pay around 30-60 EUR per night for a private room that sleeps two.

In Scandinavia, hostel dorm beds cost around 25-45 EUR, while private rooms are 65-80 EUR. Budget hotels start around 85 EUR.

Most accommodations offer free linens, free Wi-Fi, and a lot offer free breakfast, but it’s important to check specific websites for exact amenities.

Campsites cost between 10-15 EUR per night for a basic plot for two without electricity.

Food – Food traditions in Europe run deep, stretching back centuries to become integral parts of each country’s culture. From baguettes in France to tapas in Spain, from hearty Eastern European stews and goulash to the fresh vegetables and olive oils of the Mediterranean, European cuisine varies as much as the countries themselves. Food prices differ greatly across the continent, so check individual country guides for specifics.

But no matter where you are, even in the more expensive countries, finding places to eat within your budget is easier than you might think. Throughout Western Europe, you can find small shops, street food stalls, or food trucks where you can get sandwiches, gyros, kebabs, slices of pizza, or sausages for between 3-7 EUR. These shops are most often found in train stations, bus stations, and main pedestrian areas, and offer cheap food alternatives that can have you eating on 12-17 EUR per day. Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 7-10 EUR for a combo meal.

Turkish, Middle Eastern, and Vietnamese eateries abound in Germany, while Indian food is incredible and everywhere in the United Kingdom. Meals at these restaurants usually cost between 8-12 EUR.

Restaurant meals in casual, traditional eateries generally cost around 13-25 EUR for a main dish and drink. Food is much cheaper in the east than in the west, and in the west, northern regions like Scandinavia and the UK are more expensive than southern countries like Spain, Portugal, and Italy.

In Eastern Europe, even if you are eating out for all your meals, you can still get by on a food budget of as little as 15 EUR per day.

For drinks, a pint of beer is 2-5 EUR, a glass of wine is 2-7 EUR, a cappuccino is 2-5 EUR, and cocktails range from 6-14 EUR.

If you eat out, do so at lunch and get the prix-fixe menu (two-course or three-course set menu). Restaurants offer this set menu during lunch, and with prices between 10-20 EUR, it’s a way better deal than the regular dinner menu. You can also get affordable lunches at outdoor markets. So many European cities have huge fresh food markets throughout town.

You can cook your own food for around 45-65 EUR per week. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, seasonal produce, bread, and some meat. You can save money by shopping at discount supermarkets like Profi, Lidl, Aldi, and Penny Market.

If you want to save big money on meals, head to one of the markets, pick up some cheese, wine, bread, meats, or anything else, and go to the park for a picnic. (Or grab a sandwich for later!) You’ll find the locals doing the same thing, and it’s one of the cheaper ways to get a true taste of local food.

Backpacking Europe Suggested Budgets

Prices for travel in Europe vary greatly depending on how far north, east, south, or west you travel. If you stick to the budget accommodations, food, and tours listed here and use all my tips on saving money, you need about 65-110 EUR per day in Western Europe, 40-50 EUR in Eastern Europe, and about 85-130 EUR in Scandinavia.

Those numbers reflect a traveler who stays in hostels, cooks some meals and eats out cheaply, enjoys a few drinks, and sticks to free and cheap activities like hiking, walking tours, and enjoying nature. This is your typical backpacker budget. You aren’t going to have a fancy time, but you aren’t going to want for anything either.

However, by getting tourist cards and rail passes, avoiding flights, occasionally Couchsurfing or camping, cooking all your meals, and not drinking, you can travel a lot cheaper. On this budget, you could do Western Europe on 35-45 EUR per day, Eastern Europe on 20-25 EUR, and Scandinavia on 50-65 EUR. That would require you to take a train or a bus or hitchhike everywhere, skip most museums, and limit how often you go out.

Generally, the suggested daily budget for Europe is 80-120 EUR. You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Europe Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Individual country guides have more specific information on how to save money in them but here are some general tips on cutting your costs while you explore Europe:

• Picnic – This continent has a lot of little shops where you can buy pre-made sandwiches or ingredients to make your own. Many supermarkets have delis as well where you can get food to go. Buy some food, eat outside, and watch the city and its people go by. It’s a much more enjoyable and cheaper way to eat.
• Eat local and cheap – Not into picnicking? Eat at local sandwich shops, pizza parlors, Maoz, Wok to Walks, and outdoor street vendors. Avoiding restaurants and eating at a lot of the local “grab n’ go” places gives you a taste of the local cuisine at a much cheaper price. If you’re really on a budget, use your creative cooking skills to prepare meals at the hostel as well.
• Stay with a local – Hostels can add up really quickly. If you don’t have any friends with whom you can stay, consider using Couchsurfing , which connects you with locals who let you stay with them for free. Plus, they tend to also have meetups to meet other locals and travelers. It’s a great way to save on accommodation and meet a local who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Camp in a garden – A very good camping service specific to Europe is Campspace , which allows you to pitch a tent in someone’s backyard for free or for a small fee (around 10-20 EUR). All of the garden owners have profiles that tell you what services and facilities they offer. Also, many countries allow wild camping (like Sweden), which can save you a fortune if you have a tent.
• Take the bus – Budget bus companies like Flixbus can take you across the continent for cheap. I personally feel it’s best for day travel as sitting up for an overnight bus isn’t really ideal for sleeping. It isn’t glamorous, but with tickets starting at 5 EUR, you really can’t complain!
• Get a Rail Pass – Eurail Passes have saved me hundreds of dollars. If you are traveling far distances and through many countries, they are a great deal.
• Take the free city tours – One of the great things about Europe is that you can find free walking tours in all the major cities. They can be a great way to see the city attractions, take in some history, and learn your bearings without spending any money. Just make sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Plan accordingly – Plan your trip around Europe so you avoid doubling back. Transportation is a big expense so proper planning can save you a lot of money (and time). Go in a straight line or a loop. Booking your accommodation ahead helps you save as well since cheap, good places unsurprisingly get reserved first. One thing I’ve learned is that waiting until the last minute means you get stuck with expensive places or cheap places no one wants.
• Fly cheap – If you know where you are going and a train won’t do, try to book flights early. You can often get round trip fares for as little as 5 EUR from many of the European discount airlines like Ryanair or Wizz. Many capital cities have smaller airports farther from the city with ‘inconvenient’ times but cheaper fares. Keep in mind you might need to factor in an early morning Uber or taxi if the busses aren’t running and you have an early flight!
• Drink less – Those 5 EUR beers add up. Hit happy hours or pick and choose when you party. Hostel bars are a good place to get cheap drinks or buy your alcohol at the supermarket. Plus, in Europe, it’s legal to drink outside in parks, plazas, by the lakes or rivers. You’ll find you can save a lot of money by not going to bars and clubs. Partying your way across the continent will destroy your bank balance in no time.
• Get a city tourist card – Many local tourism offices sell a tourism card for all their attractions, tours, and restaurants. This card gives you free entry and substantial discounts on all the attractions and tours in a city, free local public transportation (a huge plus), and discounts at a few restaurants and shopping malls. They save a ton of money. If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, get one of these cards.
• Rideshare – If you’re flexible in your schedule, use the ridesharing service BlaBlaCar to catch rides with locals between cities (or countries) by paying a small fee. It’s like Airbnb but for rides. I used this service in Switzerland and, not only did I save a lot of money, but I got to meet interesting people and learn about local culture and life. Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe, though sometimes rides cancel at the last minute (which is why you need to be flexible). Check their ratings first and try to use rides where the person has done many trips.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water is safe to drink in most of Europe, so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
• Get a HostelPass – HostelPass is a discount membership for hostels in Europe. Members get 10-20% off select hostels around Europe, as well as perks like free breakfast or free drinks. There are discounts on tours and activities too. It’s a great way to save money if you’re bouncing around Europe as they have hostels in 18 countries around the continent.

Where to Stay in Europe

Europe has a ton of budget accommodation options. The individual country and city guides have tons of recommendations but here’s a short list of some of my favorite budget hostels and hotels around Europe:

• The Flying Pig (Amsterdam, The Netherlands)
• Hotel 54 (Barcelona, Spain)
• Generator Hostel (Copenhagen, Denmark)
• Harcourt Hotel (Dublin, Ireland)
• Castle Rock (Edinburgh, Scotland)
• Ios Palm Pansion (Ios, Greece)
• Greg and Tom’s Party Hostel (Krakow, Poland)
• Largo da Sé Guest House (Lisbon, Portugal)
• Sophie’s Hostel (Prague, Czech Republic)
• The Yellow (Rome, Italy)
• City Backpackers (Stockholm, Sweden)

How to Get Around Europe

Public transportation – Transportation around most European cities is by tram, subway, or bus. Prices are typically around 2 EUR for a one-way ticket in Western Europe and closer to 1 EUR in Eastern Europe. Most large cities also have day passes available that offer unlimited public transportation. These passes are usually 5-12 EUR per day.

In large cities with international airports, there is usually a bus or train available that ferries travelers from the downtown core to the airport. Expect to pay around 5-15 EUR to get to/from the airport.

Bus – Buses are not quite as comfortable as Europe’s trains, although certain lines do have great amenities (like roomy seats and Wi-Fi). While buses are not the most efficient way to travel around the continent, they’re certainly dependable, reliable, and cheap. You can find last-minute rides for as little as 5 EUR. A route from Berlin to Munich is about 25 EUR, while Paris to Bordeaux can be as low as 10 EUR. Longer routes, like Amsterdam to Copenhagen, start at around 47 EUR.

Each country has its own national bus service, but some lines also take you long distances internationally. Megabus and Flixbus (which now owns Eurolines) are the most popular companies.

Train – Train travel is a great way to see Europe. Intercity train prices vary wildly from country to country, depending on whether you take the slow train or a high-speed train and how far in advance you book. For example, a high-speed train from Berlin to Munich costs around 38-60 EUR, Bordeaux to Paris is about 50-85 EUR, and Madrid to Barcelona ranges from 45-85 EUR. Non-high-speed trains and other intercity lines are a lot cheaper, generally costing about 40-50% of the price of high-speed trains. Eastern Europe inter-country trains usually cost between 45-100 EUR when the ticket is booked last minute. Short train rides of 2-3 hours within countries cost about 27 EUR.

To find routes and prices for trains around Europe, use Trainline .

You may also want to consider getting a Eurail Pass , which allows travelers to explore Europe by providing a set number of stops in a specific time period. These passes are continent-wide, country-specific, or regional. It can potentially save you hundreds of dollars.

Ridesharing/Car sharing – If your schedule is flexible, use a ridesharing service and catch rides with locals between cities (or countries). Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe. BlaBlaCar is the most popular.

If you’d rather rent a car yourself and find passengers to share a ride with, use Discover Cars to find the best car rental prices.

Flying – Budget airlines are so prolific that competition helps keep fares low. You can often find tickets where the fare is just 5 EUR round-trip! Companies like EasyJet, Ryanair, Wizz, and Vueling offer mind-blowingly cheap flights throughout Europe. Book at least a month early to scoop up great deals.

Make sure that the airport they fly into isn’t too far out of your way (transportation from the secondary airport sometimes negates the savings from using the budget airline itself).

Keep in mind that you’ll have to pay to check your baggage on these cheap flights. It costs about 25-39 EUR for one checked bag. If you wait to pay for your luggage at the gate, you end up paying almost double. Travel carry-on only to avoid this added cost.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Europe is very safe, but it’s not for everyone. Hitching is quite common around the continent and I’ve met a number of travelers who have done it (I, myself, traveled this way in Bulgaria and Iceland). Some countries are very supportive (Romania, Iceland, Germany) while others may be a bit more time-consuming (Italy, Spain). HitchWiki is the best website for hitchhiking info.

Here are my suggested articles for how to get around Europe:

• 7 Cheap Ways to Travel Across Europe
• Are Eurail Passes a Giant Scam or Do They Save You Money?
• The Ultimate Guide to Finding Cheap Flights

When to Go to Europe

There’s no wrong time to visit Europe. Peak season is summer, when Europe gets crowded and August is the time most European families are at the beach so everything becomes more crowded and expensive. But the overall atmosphere and weather are great during this time, so it’s still worth visiting during peak season (just book your accommodation in advance — especially in August). Keep in mind it’s much hotter in summer so if you like AC, be sure to check that your hostel or hotel has it before you book. You can expect the most crowds in Western Europe. For this reason, I feel summer is a great time to visit the Balkans and the Baltics because many people head to the beaches in Spain, France, Italy, Croatia, and Greece.

Shoulder season is spring and fall (April-May and September-October). It’s still warm during this time but there aren’t as many crowds and prices are cheaper. This is my favorite time to visit hotspot places like Spain, Croatia and Greece, where it’s still hot enough to swim in the sea but you have way more room on the beach. It’s also a good time to go hiking in the Alps in Germany, northern Italy, Slovenia and Switzerland because it’s cooler during the day so you’re much less sweaty on the mountain without shade. The weather is good, the crowds are smaller, and the prices lower.

Winter is from November to February but in much of Central Europe, it’s wet and cold until March or April. It gets cold, even as far south as it gets (like Greece). On the other hand, the Christmas season has Christmas markets and festivals galore! Even if it’s cold, this is a cultural tradition you can’t miss and why I love Europe in December. There is hot mulled wine, sweets, and plenty of hot snacks, which vary by country. One of my favorites is Prague because the Old Town Square is lit up with a gigantic tree with aromas of crispy cinnamon pastries and mulled wine. Berlin takes their Christmas markets very seriously, so there are around 80 different markets with special themes.

Winter is fantastic in Europe for skiing and snowboarding but it doesn’t have to break the bank if you plan carefully. While Switzerland and France are probably the most famous, they are also expensive, but there are plenty of budget winter options.

How to Stay Safe in Europe

Europe is very safe for backpacking and solo traveling, even if you’re traveling solo, and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crimes against tourists are very rare. In fact, some of the safest countries in the world are in Europe. (I wrote a whole article about how Europe is safe to visit right now .)

That said, there are scams and petty crimes you should watch out for, especially around popular tourist landmarks. The most important thing to be aware of is pickpockets in crowds and on public transportation. Zip your bags and don’t put your mobile phone in a jacket pocket where someone could quickly take it. This should be obvious but don’t flash your money to let everyone know you have a huge wad of cash.

When choosing a hostel, look for ones with lockers. It’s always a good idea to carry around a padlock or combination lock. Most hostels are safe and travelers respect each other and I’ve rarely seen things happen to people’s valuables. Nevertheless, I always think that prevention is better.

As anywhere, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). When at the bar, always keep an eye on your drink. Avoid walking home alone at night if you’re intoxicated.

For female travelers in particular, it’s always a good idea to have a bit of extra money on you just in case you need to take an Uber or taxi back by yourself so you don’t take unnecessary risks to save money. If you’re using apps to date people while traveling, please use common sense and meet in public places. Since I’m not a female traveler, please check out the numerous female bloggers who have first hand knowledge of this.

If you’re worried about scams, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you rent a vehicle, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. Break-ins are rare, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Be aware that the UK drives on the left and that most rental cars in Europe will have manual transmissions unless you request otherwise.

When hiking, always bring water, sunscreen, and bandaids or foot plasters. There is nothing worse than being halfway up the mountain with a blister and nothing you can do about it!

Likewise, when at the coast, don’t forget not only to wear sunscreen! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen people get burnt to a crisp the first day. Be sure to check the weather before you depart and dress accordingly.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary to loved ones so they know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Europe Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

GO DEEPER: Nomadic Matt’s In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

While I have a lot of free tips on Europe, I also wrote an entire book that goes into great detail on everything you need to plan a trip here on a budget! You’ll get suggested itineraries, budgets, even more ways to save money, my favorite restaurants, prices, practical information (i.e. phone numbers, websites, prices, safety advice, etc etc), and cultural tips.

I’ll give the insider view of Europe that I got from years of traveling and living here! The downloadable guide can be used on your Kindle, iPad, phone, or computer so you can have it with you when you go. Click here to learn more about my book on Europe!

Europe Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Europe travel and continue planning your trip:

The 7 Best Hotels in London

10 Scotland Road Trip Tips You Need to Know Before You Go

The Perfect 7-Day Croatia Itinerary

The 6 Best Hotels in Copenhagen

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

Get your  free travel starter kit.

Enter your email and get planning cheatsheets including a step by step checklist, packing list, tips cheat sheet, and more so you can plan like a pro!

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

• News / Studio Tour

Warner Bros. Studio Tour Sponsors Guide Dogs In Training to Improve Accessibility

by Alyssa McHugh · Published June 8, 2024 · Updated June 8, 2024

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter has partnered with the charity Guide Dogs to improve accessibility for visitors who are blind or visually impaired. The Studio Tour , which has welcomed guide dogs since it first opened in 2012, has sponsored three adorable guide dogs in training – a black Labrador, a yellow Labrador, and a golden retriever. Progress reports on the puppies, named after our favorite Harry Potter trio – Harry, Ron, and Hermione – will be given to the studio to follow their developmental journey. 

Credit: Warner Bros. Studio Tour/Guide Dogs

Kerry Kernan, head of children, young people and families at Guide Dogs, commented to BBC :

Through our consultation, advice, and training, we hope to encourage change across the UK attractions industry to become more accessible for people with sight loss. 

Guide Dogs plans to use the sponsored funds from Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter to cover guide dog training, food, and veterinarian expenses.  

Through working with Guide Dogs, the Studio Tour has added a designated toilet space for guide dogs to use outside and is working on offering signage iPads to magnify signs and descriptions. Guide Dogs will provide Studio Tour staff with online training resources on best practices for guiding visitors with sight loss around the experience. These resources are just the first step in the training program, followed by in-person training sessions for team members. Over the next 12 months, further implementations will be added to improve accessibility. 

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter offers a close look into the sets, props, and costumes used to create the movies we know and love today. The Studio Tour’s partnership with Guide Dogs will give visitors who are blind or visually impaired a more accessible experience exploring the Great Hall, traveling through Diagon Alley, and more!

Alyssa McHugh

Harry Potter has been a big part of my life since the age of nine. The stories and characters have helped me fight my own personal dementors. In my Muggle time, I enjoy blogging, reading fantasy novels, attending festivals, listening to music, and hanging out with my two cats!

• Next story  “Harry Potter: Quidditch Champions” Has a Release Date and Trailer
• Previous story  Sorting “Star Trek: Voyager” Characters into Their Hogwarts Houses

MuggleNet Archive

Important dates, wed, jun 12, thu, jun 13, sat, jun 15.

Creative & Marketing Director

How to watch MLB World Tour London Series 2024: Mets vs Phillies live stream

America's pastime heads over the pond for a two-game series

• London Series schedule
• Watch in the U.S.
• Watch in Canada

At the start of the season, Mets vs Phillies looked like it might be a mid-season rivalry. Now, less than halfway through, these two teams couldn't be further apart. The NL East-leading Phillies look to add to the Mets' misery as part of the MLB World Tour 2024 in this two-game London Series at London Stadium this weekend.

The Bryce Harper-backed Phillies just keep winning, pushing themselves further ahead in the standings and paving the way to the playoffs yet again. With the Atlanta Braves seven games behind, they've got a comfortable lead heading to the mid-way point of the season.

The Mets vs Phillies free live streams today, Sunday, June 9th. Time: 10:10 a.m. ET / 3:10 p.m. BST (Sunday) FREE stream: BBC iPlayer (U.K.) Stream in the U.S.: FOX & ESPN with Fubo Watch from anywhere: with NordVPN

The Mets, however, continue to struggle. After starting the season with loss after loss, they seemingly turned things around before it all went south again. While it seems like they're now in the running for the most blown saves in a season, the bullpen continues to struggle as their cold bats can't put up enough runs to keep them ahead.

After jumping to an early lead out of the gate on Saturday, the struggling Mets were just no match for the red-hot Phillies, who put up 6 runs in the 4th inning and never looked back. Today, Sunday, will see the two teams face off in the second of the two-game series, but the storyline will most likely be much of the same. The Mets will look to bounce back, but can they put up enough against the NL's top team?

Keep reading and we'll break down the best ways you can stream the Mets vs Phillies MLB London Series games this weekend. If the games aren't being broadcast in your region, you can still get in on the fun as well with the use of a VPN. We'll show you how...

Mets vs Phillies London Series live stream schedule

• Saturday, June 8, 2024 - Phillies 7 Mets 2
• Sunday, June 9, 2024 - 10:10 a.m. ET / 3:10 p.m BST

How to watch MLB World Tour London 2024 for FREE

For those of you in the U.K. wanting to watch a Mets vs Phillies London Series live stream, BBC iPlayer has you covered for both Saturday and Sunday . 

If you happen to be traveling come game day but still want to catch all the MLB London free live stream action, you can easily make use of a VPN to catch the game while away from home.

Our top pick, NordVPN , lets you easily connect from nearly any device so you can stream the London Series no matter where you are.

How to watch Mets vs Phillies London Series from anywhere in the world

Away from home at the moment and blocked from watching MLB London 2024 on your usual subscription?

You can still watch Mets vs Phillies live thanks to the wonders of a VPN (Virtual Private Network). The software allows your devices to appear to be back in your home country regardless of where in the world you are. So ideal for viewers away on vacation or on business. Our favorite is NordVPN . It's the best on the market:

There's a good reason you've heard of NordVPN. We specialize in testing and reviewing VPN services and NordVPN is the one we rate best. It's outstanding at unblocking streaming services, it's fast and it has top-level security features too. With over 5,000 servers, across 60 countries, and at a great price too, it's easy to recommend.

Get 60% off NordVPN with this deal

How to watch Mets vs Phillies London Series in the U.S.

When it comes to streaming the London Series or nearly any other game this season, your best bet will always be MLB.TV . It won't only let you see your favorite out-of-market teams live, but also highlights and replays all season long.

You can watch every out-of-market regular-season game live on MLB.TV. Or if you prefer to see the games in HD you can view them on demand. MLB.TV’s out-of-market yearly packages are the best for value and you can choose whether you want to watch all the teams in the league for $139.99 a year or just follow a single team for $119.99 a year.

MLB.TV works on all of the most popular streaming devices including Apple TV , Chromecast, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, and many others so you’ll never miss a game no matter where you are.

MLB.TV is your go-to for streaming the Mets vs Phillies London Series as well as most other regular season out-of-market games. If you happen to be traveling and need to catch your team in-market, you can get around this by taking the VPN route which will virtually re-locate you, making it look like you're accessing the service from elsewhere in an out-of-market location.

If MLB.TV isn't for you, then Fubo is our streaming pick as it will broadcast Saturday and Sunday's games on FOX and ESPN in the U.S., respectively. With Fubo, you'll get access to both networks as well as many other channels with entertainment and sports offerings from the likes of AMC, FOX Sports, FX and Syfy.

Fubo is an excellent choice for sports fans as it has nearly all the networks you'll need for most major events. With the Pro Plan ($80/month), you get over 150 channels, including all the local broadcast networks and top cable brands like E!, AMC, HGTV, FX, ESPN, Syfy, and Paramount Network. There's a 7-day free trial , too, letting you try before you buy.

How to watch Mets vs Phillies London Series in Canada

Those of you looking to watch the Mets vs Phillies London Series in the Great White North aren't left in the lurch. Saturday's game will be widely available on Sportsnet across Canada so you don't have to miss any of the action, while Sunday's outing will be featured on TSN2.

Where does the London Series take place?

For the 2024 London Series the New York Mets take on the Philadelphia Phillies at London Stadium in London, England, home to West Ham United football club.

Adam is the Editorial Director of High-Yield content at Future. Leading an outstanding team, he oversees many articles the publisher produces about subscriptions and services including VPN, TV streaming, and broadband. In addition to identifying new e-commerce opportunities, he has produced extensive buying guides, how-to-watch content, deal news, and in-depth reviews. Adam's work can be seen on numerous Future brands including TechRadar, Tom's Guide, T3, TTR, Android Central, iMore, Windows Central, and Real Homes.

India vs Pakistan live stream: How to watch T20 World Cup 2024 online, start time

Zverev vs Alcaraz live stream: How to watch French Open men's final tennis online, Spaniard wins fourth set to level match

New on Netflix: 5 movies and shows to watch this week (June 10-16)

Most Popular

• 2 AirPods Max vs. Sonos Ace Headphones: Which flagship headphones win?
• 3 The big nasty secret no one tells you about buying TVs
• 4 I tried this 10-minute bodyweight workout to blast my abs and obliques — here’s what happened
• 5 These hidden AirDrop settings make photo sharing so much better

Protect Your Trip »

18 best paris tours of 2024: food, versailles & more.

Enhance your visit to the City of Love with one of these specialized tours.

The Best Paris Tours

Getty Images

From the Eiffel Tower to the Moulin Rouge – plus day trips to Versailles, Normandy and beyond – there are so many things to do in Paris . To make the most of your trip, it can be helpful to rely on the expertise of a few locals via a guided tour. Read on to discover some of the top-rated Paris tours for a variety of interests.

Bike About Tours – Hidden Paris Bike Tour

Price: Adults from 45 euros (around $49); kids 3 and younger from 20 euros (about $22) Duration: 3.5 hours

On this roughly 3.5-hour cycling trip, a guide takes you on back streets to both notable and lesser-known attractions throughout Paris. Along the way, guides share historical and cultural anecdotes. Sights include the Place des Vosges, Jardin des Plantes and the Paris mosque, to name a few. Reviewers love seeing an array of attractions at a leisurely pace and applaud the expertise of the guides. Bike About Tours also offers cycling excursions through Versailles.

Check prices & availability on:

Big Bus Paris Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Price: Adults from $45; kids 4-12 from $25 Duration: About 2 hours

Create your own Parisian adventure with the Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour. Double-decker, open-top buses take you to 10 stops near top attractions, including the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower, Musée du Louvre and the Grand Palais. All buses are equipped with a prerecorded audio tour in 11 different languages. Reviewers love the convenience of the bus, but some express disappointment that buses are often overcrowded.

Buses run from around 10 a.m. to about 7:30 p.m. daily and typically frequent stops every seven to 15 minutes. If you choose to ride the whole route, you'll be on the bus for two hours and 15 minutes. Ticket discounts may be available if you book online in advance. Big Bus also offers two-day passes, a night tour and combo tours that include a river cruise.

Paris Charms and Secrets

Price: From 59 euros (about $64) Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours

If you're a sucker for a good story, a secret passageway or a long-forgotten historical tale, the Paris Charms and Secrets tour will be right up your alley. On this roughly 12-mile tour, a guide will lead you through the city on an electric bike, stopping at some of Paris' most famous attractions and storied monuments. Hear the legends of Élysée Palace, the controversies of the Eiffel Tower and the curious past of the Notre-Dame Cathedral. Reviewers love the knowledgeable guides and the unique stories.

Older children and teens are welcome to ride their own bikes if they meet the height and weight requirements; a child seat must be reserved ahead of time for younger kids (for 12 euros).

Paris By Mouth – North Marais Food Tour

Price: 130 euros (about $141) Duration: 3.5 hours

If you want an intimate look at one of Paris' most fashionable and beautiful areas, snag a spot on Paris By Mouth's North Marais Food tour. This 3.5-hour tour welcomes up to eight participants to create a more personal feel. For the first part of the tour, your guide will bring you to some of the neighborhood's most prestigious shops, which specialize in bread, cheese, pastry and charcuterie. The second part of the tour stops at a wine shop and includes a seated tasting with wine pairings. Paris By Mouth's guides are experienced food journalists, chefs and foodies – a highlight among reviewers.

The tour is recommended for adults, though children older than age 12 can join. The tour runs daily at multiple times. Paris By Mouth also hosts tours of Saint-Germain-des-Près, south Marais and the Left Bank.

Retro Tour Paris – Retro Classic

Price: From $75 Duration: 40 minutes

Hop into the vintage sidecar of an experienced motorcycle driver and cruise through the city with views of the Champs-Élysées, the Eiffel Tower, Champ de Mars and more on the Retro Classic tour of Paris. Local guides will share unique stories and provide an experience worlds apart from a typical city tour. Reviewers rave about the thrill of riding in the sidecar and the local insight.

If you love your first sidecar experience, you can also opt for the company's 90-minute tours, as well as a ride through Paris after sunset (with a Champagne tasting, naturally).

Blue Fox Travel – Versailles Bike Tour

Price: Adults from 109 euros (around $119); kids from 95 euros (about $104) Duration: 9 hours

The Versailles estate encompasses 2,000 acres, and there's no better way to see it than on a bike with Blue Fox Travel. Spend roughly nine hours with an expert guide and a small group (up to 14 people) touring the royal grounds, including the Grand and Petit Trianon chateaus, Marie Antoinette's private domain and the grand palace with a skip-the-line pass included in your ticket. Guides tell stories of French royal history, including the conquests of the Louis XIV, also known as the Sun King, the controversies surrounding Louis XV, the French Revolution and Marie Antoinette. Reviewers love biking the grounds at a leisurely pace and rave about the expertise of the guides, as well as the picnic lunch with finds from one of the local farmers markets.

Tours include train tickets to and from Paris. Blue Fox Travel also guides visitors on cycling tours of Paris at night and the city's top attractions.

Secret Food Tours Paris – Montmartre

Price: Adults from 109 euros (about $119); kids from 99 euros (about $108) Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours

Peruse and stroll through the Parisian dining scene like a local with Secret Food Tours. On this up to four-hour tour of one of Paris' most picturesque and lively arrondissements, dessert is first (c'est la vie!) . You'll gather chocolates and macarons from local specialty shops, followed by baguettes, cheeses, meats and crêpes – all while learning more about food and Parisian traditions from your local guide. When your bag is full, the guide will lead you to a prime picnic spot to enjoy your bounty with a few wine pairings. Reviewers love the historical tidbits and local insights, as well as the animated and entertaining tour guides.

An upgraded drinks package is available for an additional charge. Tours run daily at several different times, depending on the day. Secret Food Tours also hosts walks through other Paris neighborhoods, such as Saint-Germain-des-Prés and Le Marais.

Intrepid Urban Adventures – Paris Marais Bites and Sights Tour

Price: From $97 Duration: 2 hours

Wander through Paris' gorgeous Marais with a local guide and a lineup of French treats. Intrepid Urban Adventures' Bites and Sights Tour takes you through the well-preserved (and very fashionable) area of the Marais. Throughout the approximately two-hour tour, you'll hear local insights and historical tales as you admire Marais' treasured architecture. Stories are accompanied by stops in neighborhood shops for pastry and macaron samples, plus a French cheese platter and two glasses of wine. Reviewers appreciate the expertise and entertainment provided by the guides, as well as the intimate and conversational environment.

Children 5 and younger can tag along for free, as long as they sample items from their parents' plate. Paris Urban Adventures also offers tours of bohemian Paris and several private excursions.

Paris by Martin & Friends – Walking Tour

Price: 70 euros (about $76) Duration: 2.5 hours

For a truly bespoke experience with a passionate local, take a tour with Martin Muda and his friends, all residents of Paris. On the 2.5-hour walking tour, Muda or one of his tour guides will lead you to treasured spots throughout the city, with stories that give life to Paris' history and legends. Reviewers give high praise for the tour guides and their attention to detail, as well as the customization of each tour.

Tours are available at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. daily. Children younger than 3 can join the tour for free. Inquiries can be made through the website. The company also offers walking picnic tours at night and electric bike tours.

Fat Tire Tours – Versailles Bike Tour

Price: Adults from 109 euros (about $119); kids from 95 euros (about $103) Duration: 8.5 hours

To see Versailles in all of its glory, take a ride with Fat Tire Tours. On this daylong tour (approximately 8.5 hours), a guide will take you through the Versailles open market to grab a picnic lunch before visiting the Petit Trianon, the Grand Trianon and the estate gardens. The tour also includes skip-the-line access to the palace and an audio guide. Riders love the bicycles and tour guides, and appreciate the sweeping views of the iconic palace and grounds.

Tours are offered Tuesday through Sunday and all depart before 9 a.m. Kids younger than 4 are free to join the tour. Fat Tire Tours also offers a variety of biking excursions around Paris – including an "Emily in Paris"-inspired tour – and the surrounding region, as well as guided walks and Segway rides.

SANDEMANs NEW Europe – Montmartre Free Walking Tour

Price: Free; tips appreciated Duration: 2.5 hours

Stroll through one of Paris' most famous and charming neighborhoods with the help of SANDEMANs NEW Europe. This 2.5-hour tour will take you by the area's most photographed sights, including the Moulin Rouge and up the steps to Sacré-Coeur. You'll recognize streets featured in paintings and in cinema as guides share tales of Montmartre's famous artists, musicians and other notables, including Van Gogh and Picasso. Tourgoers appreciate the guides' expertise and recommend the tour for art history lovers.

Tours depart daily at 4 p.m. (Spanish language) and 5 p.m. (English language). Tickets are free, though tips are appreciated. If you're looking to explore more of the city, the company offers an array of other tours covering Latin Quarter, the Seine River and more.

Boutique Bike Tours – Versailles Food & Palace Bike Tour

Price: Adults from 145 euros (about $158); kids 5 and older from 99 euros (about $108) Duration: 9 to 10 hours

If you're looking to escape the city, let Boutique Bike Tours take you on a ride and stroll through the gardens of Versailles. On this approximately nine- to 10-hour tour, guides lead the way through the sprawling estate before stopping for a picnic lunch with provisions purchased from the market in town. After lunch, you'll skip the line at the famous palace to explore the rooms and hallways of Versailles. Reviewers enjoy the leisurely pace, a day full of activities and informative guidance.

Tours generally depart Tuesday and Friday through Sunday; expect to leave at 8 or 9 a.m. and return around 6 p.m. The company also hosts an evening bike and boat tour of Paris.

2CVParisTour – Legendary Paris Tour

Price: From 160 euros (about $175) Duration: 2 hours

If you're looking for a memorable and personalized drive through Paris, allow 2CVParisTour to take you for a whirl in a Citroën 2CV, a classic French car. Take in sights like the Arc de Triomphe, Luxembourg Gardens, Palais de l'Élysée ,  Église   Saint-Sulpice and more as you cruise through the Paris streets for two hours. Reviewers praise the classic car experience and entertaining guides.

Champagne can be added to the tour for an extra charge. Tours depart at multiple times daily, starting at 11 a.m. and ending after 10 p.m. If you can't get enough of the vintage car experience, you can also sign up for a tour of Montmartre, one that features a picnic and others.

City Wonders – Paris Catacombs Underground Tour

Price: Adults from $119 Duration: 2 hours

City Wonders will take you on a two-hour tour of what's below Paris: a network of tunnels, crypts and tombs that are home to nearly 6 million skeletons. On this Paris Catacombs tour, you'll skip the line with a small group to explore the Port Mahon gallery, the Sacellum Crypt and Gilbert's Tomb. Throughout the tour, you'll hear historical anecdotes from insightful guides. Along with the entertaining guides, reviewers also appreciate the skip-the-line access and recommend this experience in lieu of a self-guided tour.

Ticket prices may increase during busier times of the year. Tours depart Tuesday through Sunday at several times each day. City Wonders also hosts traditional aboveground tours of the Louvre, Versailles and the Eiffel Tower.

Paris City Vision – Half Day Guided Tour of Giverny Monet's Gardens from Paris

Price: From 89 euros (about $97) Duration: About 5 hours

On this roughly five-hour tour, a guide will take you through the life of celebrated painter Claude Monet as you explore his home and garden in Giverny. His garden is what inspired some of his most prized works, including "Irises" and "Water Lilies." Reviewers value the views and insight provided by tour guides, though others warn that the company can be disorganized.

Tours generally run daily at 8:15 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. The company hosts a number of other tours throughout Paris and greater France , including tours to Normandy .

Street Art Tour Paris – Murals XXL

Price: From 26 euros (about $28) Duration: About 2 hours

There's no museum pass needed to see some of the city's largest artwork with Street Art Tour's Murals XXL. An expert guide leads groups through the city to view contemporary works created by the world's most famous and talented muralists, such as Jorge Rodriguez-Gerada and Obey. Reviewers love the insider information and find the tour reveals details (and murals) often overlooked. Plus, the route is accessible for those with limited mobility.

Tours last just over two hours and run Tuesdays and Saturdays at 2 p.m. Discounts are available to groups of five or more. Street Art Tour Paris also offers tours in Montmartre and Belleville, among other options.

Babylon Tours – Louvre Museum + Orsay Museum Guided Combo Tour

Price: Adults from 199 euros (about $217); kids from 159 euros (about $173) Duration: 5.5 hours

View Greek sculpture and famous paintings by greats like Renoir, Monet, da Vinci and Van Gogh during this 5.5-hour tour. As you explore the Louvre and the Musée d'Orsay, guides will regale you with stories of art history. Plus, you'll bypass the long lines at the attractions. Travelers praise the guide's knowledge and appreciate the small groups (no more than eight people can go at once).

Tours run at 10 a.m. from Wednesday to Saturday. Fees include access to the museums. Babylon Tours also operates outings to the Musée de l'Orangerie, the Rodin Museum and individual outings to the Louvre and Musée d'Orsay.

XL Tours – Segway Tour

Price: From 75 euros (about $82) Duration: 2 hours

During this two-hour tour, you'll glide by some of Paris' must-see sights like the Eiffel Tower, Trocadero Gardens and the Musée d'Orsay. You'll also ride in style on Bel & Bel Segways, which are designed to resemble the iconic Vespa scooters. Travelers say the Segways are a great way to see the city and the guides provide clear instructions.

Tours are available daily at 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 6 or 7 p.m. You may be required to book at least two riders for your tour if you book directly through the company's website. Participants must be at least 12 years old. XL Tour also runs electric bike tours through the city.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Hotels in Paris

The Best London Tours

• The Best International Travel Insurance

Tags: Tours , Travel , Vacations , Paris , Europe Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The best places to celebrate juneteenth.

Suzanne Mason June 6, 2024

The Best Salem Tours

Lyn Mettler June 6, 2024

The Best Key Largo Snorkeling Tours

Gwen Pratesi June 6, 2024

Kim Foley MacKinnon June 5, 2024

Celebrity Ascent Review

Megan duBois June 5, 2024

The Best Graceland Tours

Gwen Pratesi June 5, 2024

Top Things to Do in Orange County, CA

Brittany Chrusciel and Sharael Kolberg June 4, 2024

Fun Things to Do in Arkansas

Ben Luthi and Justine Harrington June 3, 2024

Top Things to Do in Florida

Gwen Pratesi May 31, 2024

The Best Travel Neck Pillows

Timothy J. Forster and Amanda Norcross May 30, 2024

Leavesden Hospital Ripper Tour 2024

Join Russell Edwards, author of the book “Naming Jack the Ripper”. On a guided tour through the sites of the Whitechapel murders of 1888.

Date and time

Aldgate East

Refund Policy

About this event.

• United Kingdom Events
• Greater London Events
• Things to do in London

Organized by