London Eye Ticket, Big Bus Hop-on Hop-Off Tour & River Cruise

Exploring London can feel overwhelming—so many sights, neighborhoods, and ways to see the city. This package offers a streamlined way to tick off major attractions: a 24- or 48-hour hop-on hop-off bus tour, a brief river cruise, and a stunning ride on the London Eye. It’s designed for travelers who want flexibility and an overview of London’s highlights, all bundled into one ticket.

What we really like about this experience is its value for money; for around $82, you’re getting three different ways to see London’s most famous landmarks. The convenience of a mobile ticket, combined with audio commentary in multiple languages, ensures an informative and flexible adventure.

One possible downside? The bus routes can be affected by London’s notorious traffic, sometimes leading to longer waits or limited coverage. This means if your schedule is tight or you’re set on a specific timeline, you might want to plan carefully.

This package is best suited for first-time visitors eager for a broad overview, or those who enjoy exploring at their own pace while enjoying scenic water and sky views.

Key Points

• Flexible Exploration: 24- or 48-hour hop-on hop-off bus tickets allow you to see London at your own speed.
• Stunning Views: The London Eye offers panoramic city vistas, especially during clear weather.
• Multi-Sensory Experience: The Thames River cruise passes beneath iconic bridges and offers a different perspective of the city.
• Authentic Information: Audio guides in seven languages enrich your understanding of key landmarks.
• Potential Delays: Traffic and bus frequency issues can extend wait times and limit stop coverage.
• User Experience: Reviews highlight both smooth experiences and some frustrations with wait times and ticketing procedures.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect and What’s Worth Your Time

The Bus Route: Covering Iconic Neighborhoods and Landmarks

The Big Bus route in London is comprehensive, covering areas like Piccadilly, Green Park, Trafalgar Square, Westminster, and Tower of London. The stops are conveniently positioned near major attractions, making it easy to hop on and off.

Traveling through the city on a double-decker bus offers a classic London experience, with open-top views revealing the city’s grandeur. Reviewers mention that the driver guides are knowledgeable, providing stories and context that turn a simple ride into a mini city tour. An attendee noted, “The drivers are super rude & ask you to get off randomly,” which highlights that experiences can vary—so patience is key.

The London Eye: Grand Views from Above

Your ticket includes a ride on the London Eye, one of the most recognized symbols of the city. Reviewers describe the experience as “epic” and “unmatched views of London,” especially during clear days. To avoid disappointment, remember you need to pre-book your time slot, which can be done via a link on your voucher.

One reviewer shared that “the experience was smooth, and the line moved quickly,” especially if you arrive during off-peak hours like late afternoon. The view from 135 meters is breathtaking, making it a perfect spot for photos and panoramic memories.

Thames River Cruise: A Different Perspective

Gliding past Westminster, the Houses of Parliament, and Tower Bridge, the river cruise offers a relaxing break from bus touring. It’s provided by City Cruises, with options for live English commentary, which many found enjoyable. Several reviews highlight the fantastic storytelling during the cruise, making it not just scenic but also educational.

However, some reviewers mention long wait times and crowded boats—especially during peak seasons or busy days. One reviewer noted, “We had an unpleasant experience with a crowded ferry,” which underscores the importance of arriving early and being patient.

The Realities of the Experience: What Travelers Should Know

Booking and Ticketing

The package makes it straightforward, with mobile tickets that can be activated at any of the designated stops. Reviewers point out that activating the QR code before heading to attractions is recommended—some experienced issues with the QR code not being accepted at the London Eye, so it’s best to activate tickets first.

Duration and Timing

The bus tour lasts approximately 3 hours 35 minutes without stops, but with hop-on hop-off flexibility, you can spend more or less time at each attraction. Some reviews mention that traffic delays can extend the full circuit to over 5 hours, which might be frustrating if you’re on a tight schedule.

Buses and Traffic

London’s traffic is notorious, and several reviews mention long wait times—some with waits of 45-50 minutes. The frequency of buses might not always meet expectations, especially during busy periods, and driver breaks can cause unexpected delays. However, some travelers appreciated the live commentary and friendly staff at stops, which made waiting bearable.

The Water and Sky Views

Many find the London Eye and river cruise the highlights—offering unique perspectives of the city that are better than any photo alone. Reviewers mention that the cruise’s commentary is engaging, and the views from the Eye are “epic,” especially during sunset.

Cost and Value

At around $82.42 per person, this package offers good value, considering it combines three major attractions with combined ticketing. The reviews show that the experience itself is well worth the price—especially for first-timers eager to see the top sights without fussing over individual tickets or transportation.

However, some travelers felt the hop-on hop-off bus was less reliable compared to other companies, with long waits and crowded buses occasionally detracting from the experience. Still, the inclusion of the London Eye and river cruise makes it a rundown.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits first-time visitors who want to see as much as possible in a short time. It’s great for those who appreciate flexibility, allowing you to customize your day by hopping on and off at different landmarks. Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy scenic water rides and iconic city views will find plenty to love here.

If you’re the type who prefers a guided tour with fixed timings or dislikes traffic delays, you might find this less satisfying. But overall, it’s a cost-effective way to get a broad sense of London and capture some memorable moments from multiple perspectives.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

For the price, this package offers a well-rounded introduction to London. It combines the convenience of a hop-on hop-off bus with the spectacular views from the London Eye and the relaxing pace of a Thames cruise. Travelers who appreciate authentic views, informative guides, and scenic photo opportunities will find this combo appealing.

However, be prepared for traffic-related delays and long waits, especially during peak times. Arrive early, activate your tickets beforehand, and plan your timings carefully to make the most of your day.

This package is particularly ideal for first-time visitors or anyone wanting to maximize sightseeing without renting a car. If you’re well-organized and flexible, it can truly be a memorable and efficient way to enjoy London’s top sights.

FAQ

Is this ticket valid for 24 or 48 hours?
Yes, you can choose a 24- or 48-hour hop-on hop-off bus ticket, which allows you to explore London at your own pace within that period.

Do I need to pre-book my London Eye time slot?
Yes, you’ll need to pre-book your time slot via the link provided on your voucher to ensure smooth entry.

Are the bus routes affected by traffic?
Yes, London’s traffic can cause delays; some travelers experienced waits of up to 50 minutes, especially during busy times.

Can I activate my mobile ticket at any stop?
Yes, you can activate your ticket at any designated Big Bus stop by scanning your QR code.

Does the river cruise include live commentary?
It can include live English commentary, which many reviewers enjoyed, but check your booking details for specific options.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included in this package.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, the package does not include hotel pickup or drop-off.

What should I do if my QR code isn’t accepted at the attraction?
It’s best to activate your tickets prior to arrival and have your confirmation ready. If issues arise, contact the tour provider directly.

In brief, this London combo offers a practical, enjoyable way to see the city’s top sights from multiple angles. It’s a good pick for those seeking flexibility, scenic views, and value, as long as you’re prepared for London’s traffic.