Best tours in London: How to see the city like a local

London can feel huge, but the right tour can shrink it down to a few unforgettable hours. Whether you’re after iconic landmarks, secret alleyways, or a night out that still feels safe, there’s a tour that fits. Below you’ll find the most reliable options, the best times to book, and tips that keep you from paying too much.

Classic sightseeing tours you can’t miss

First up, the all‑weather, hop‑on hop‑off buses. They’re cheap, run every 15 minutes, and stop right in front of places like the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the London Eye. Grab a day pass, hop off for a quick photo, then hop back on when you’re done. The best trick? Get off early in the morning to avoid the crowds and catch the buildings in soft light – the photos look way better.

If you prefer water, the Thames River Cruise is a must. It gives you a low‑angle view of the City’s skyline, and you can combine it with a guided commentary that tells you why the Shard looks the way it does. Aim for a late‑afternoon cruise; the city lights start to glow and you end up at a perfect spot for a nightcap on the Southbank.

Off‑the‑beaten‑path tours for the curious

Walking tours let you dig into neighborhoods most tourists skip. The street‑art tour in Shoreditch is free‑walking with a tip‑based guide, and you’ll see murals that change every few weeks. For food lovers, a market crawl through Borough, Camden, and Brick Lane covers British classics, Asian street food, and hidden vintage stalls – all in under three hours.Nightlife tours are growing fast. A guided bar hop in Soho or a club‑entry tour in East London helps you skip the line and meet locals. Most agencies provide a wristband that grants free entrance to multiple clubs, saving you a lot of cash.

One more hidden gem: the “London Ghost Walk”. It starts near the Tower Bridge and winds through haunted alleys while a storyteller shares real spooky history. It’s perfect for a rainy evening when you still want to be outside.

When you book any tour, check the cancellation policy. Many sites now offer free rescheduling up to 24 hours before the start date – handy if the weather turns bad. Also, look for bundle deals: a river cruise plus a West End show ticket often costs less than buying them separately.

Lastly, keep an eye on local event calendars. A big sports match or a royal ceremony can flood regular routes with crowds, making a quiet walking tour a better choice that day.

With these tips, you’ll avoid the tourist traps, see the city’s best spots, and still have enough energy for a proper pub dinner at the end of the day. Happy exploring!