London Best of the City Fully Customized Guided Private Tour

Discover London Your Way on a Fully Customized Private Tour

The London Best of the City Fully Customized Guided Private Tour offers an engaging way to explore the capital at your own pace. Priced at $264.50 per person, this private experience lasts from 3 to 7 hours and is designed for flexibility. You benefit from a personal guide who helps craft a tailored itinerary, whether you prefer a half-day or full-day adventure.

With a high rating of 5.0 based on 129 reviews and 96% recommendation rate, this tour consistently earns praise for its expert guides and personalized approach. It is ideal for visitors who want to see iconic landmarks like Big Ben and the Tower of London, but also enjoy off-the-beaten-path spots thanks to the guide’s insider tips. The inclusion of pickup options and the availability of group discounts add further convenience.

A key strength is the customization: you tell the guide your interests beforehand, and logistics are pre-arranged—public transportation, reservations, and route planning—so you can focus purely on exploring. While entrance tickets, meals, and private transport are at your own expense, the flexibility and expert insight make this tour a top choice for travelers seeking a personalized London experience.

Key Points

• Fully customizable private tour tailored to your interests and schedule
• Highlights include Big Ben, Tower of London, Thames River, and London Eye
• Expert local guides provide in-depth commentary and insider tips
• Options for half-day (3.5 hours) or full-day (7 hours) experiences
• All logistics are arranged in advance, making for a hassle-free day
• Entrance fees, meals, and private transportation are paid separately

Start Your Day at the Changing of the Guard (When Available)

The tour often begins with the Changing of the Guard, a quintessential London spectacle. However, it’s important to check if this event occurs on the day of your tour, as it doesn’t happen daily. This stop is free and lasts about 25 minutes, offering a traditional view of royal pageantry. Your guide helps you find the best vantage point to witness this colorful ceremony, which is a favorite for many visitors.

Explore the Tower of London and Capture Iconic Photos

From there, the tour might include a visit to the Tower of London. While entrance tickets aren’t included, your guide can show you the best spots for photos and share stories about its history. The Tower is a major highlight, offering a chance to see the Crown Jewels and learn about England’s royal past. The guide’s local knowledge makes this a seamless inclusion, even if you arrange tickets separately.

Cruise Along the Thames for Stunning Views

A 45-minute walk along the Thames River provides some of the most recognizable views of London. You’ll see landmarks like the London Eye, Millennium Bridge, and St. Paul’s Cathedral from the water or from vantage points along the riverbank. This stretch captures the city’s energy and allows for fantastic photo opportunities.

Inside Westminster Abbey and the Diana Memorial

Next, your tour may include a quick stop at Westminster Abbey, where British kings are crowned and royal weddings take place. The guide offers insights into its architecture and history, enriching your visit. Nearby, the Diana Memorial Playground provides a peaceful break, especially if you’re traveling with family. It’s a free spot where you can pay tribute to Princess Diana.

Visit the Architectural Marvel of St. Paul’s Cathedral

The next highlight could be St. Paul’s Cathedral, designed by Sir Christopher Wren. This symbol of London’s resilience survived the Great Fire and WWII bombings. While entrance fees are separate, your guide explains its significance and history, making it more meaningful than a simple photo stop.

Cross the Millennium Bridge and View the Cityscape

A walk across the Millennium Bridge offers striking views of Saint Paul’s Cathedral and the modern Tate Modern museum. The wobbly bridge is a favorite for its design and the connection it creates between historic and contemporary London. Your guide shares interesting facts about the bridge’s construction and role in the city’s landscape.

Experience Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament

No London tour is complete without seeing Big Ben. Recently restored after five years of work, it now gleams and chimes accurately again. Your guide explains that Big Ben is technically the clock, not the tower itself, and shares stories about its history. It’s a prime photo spot, especially with the Westminster Palace in the background.

Discover Covent Garden’s Vibrant Atmosphere

Stroll through Covent Garden, where street performers, market stalls, and historic shops create a lively scene. The area has been a hub for commerce and entertainment since the 1600s. Your guide shares stories about its past, including the connection to My Fair Lady, and recommends local shops and cafes.

Ride the London Eye for Panoramic Views

A highlight of many full-day tours, the London Eye offers around 2 hours of spectacular views across the city. While tickets are not included, your guide can suggest the best times to visit and share fun facts about this iconic Ferris wheel, which has featured in films like James Bond’s adventures.

Ascend to The Shard’s Observation Deck

For modern panoramic vistas, you can choose to visit The Shard’s observation deck. Recognized as London’s newest icon, the viewpoint from the 72nd floor allows a unique perspective of the sprawling metropolis. Your guide can help you plan this optional addition or suggest the best timing as part of your custom itinerary.

Conclude with Trafalgar Square and Piccadilly Circus

The tour typically wraps up at Trafalgar Square, home to Nelson’s column and the lions, and the British Museum nearby. Then, your guide leads you through Piccadilly Circus, explaining the history behind the famous neon signs and the curious name. This finale highlights London’s vibrant energy and history, with plenty of photo opportunities.

Logistics and Personalization Options

The tour departs from your preferred location, with pickup options available. Your private guide handles the logistics, including transportation arrangements, so you spend less time organizing and more time enjoying. The itinerary is fully flexible, allowing you to prioritize attractions like markets, museums, or shopping districts such as Camden Town or Soho.

Practical Details and Additional Costs

All entrance tickets, meals, and private transportation are paid separately at the time of your visit. The optional private transportation costs £80 per hour and needs to be booked 72 hours in advance. The tour is suitable for most travelers and is also accessible via public transportation if preferred.

The Value of a Fully Customized Experience

The main advantage of this private tour lies in its personalization. You communicate your interests beforehand, and the guide designs a route that highlights your preferred sights. Many reviews mention the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Tim, Davey, Maggie, and Gillian, who make the experience engaging and informative.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This tour suits those who want a bespoke experience, enjoy flexible schedules, and value expert local insights. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups who wish to explore London’s highlights at their own pace. The full customization makes it ideal for travelers with specific interests or those who want to avoid overly structured tour groups.

Final Thoughts on the London Fully Customized Private Tour

For $264.50, travelers receive a personalized, flexible, and knowledgeable way to see London’s main sights and hidden corners. The expert guides consistently receive high praise for their friendliness and depth of knowledge, turning a standard sightseeing tour into a tailored adventure. While entrance fees and private transport are extra, the effort saved on logistics and planning makes this tour a worthwhile investment for those who prefer a curated experience.

This tour is especially well-suited for those seeking an in-depth, personal, and comfortable way to discover London with a local expert guiding the way. Visitors can expect a well-organized, engaging, and adaptable experience that captures the essence of this vibrant city.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my itinerary?
Yes, you communicate your interests beforehand, and the guide helps craft a route tailored to your preferences.

Is transportation included?
No, public transportation costs are paid separately. Private transportation can be booked at £80 per hour, requiring 72 hours’ notice.

Are entrance tickets included?
No, tickets for attractions like the Tower of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral, or the London Eye are paid separately.

How long does the tour last?
The tour can be from 3.5 hours for a half-day to 7 hours for a full-day experience.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, many guides are praised for their ability to keep children entertained and engaged, making it family-friendly.

What landmarks might I see?
Expect to visit Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Tower of London, Thames River, Covent Garden, Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus, and optional attractions like The Shard and London Eye.

Is this tour accessible via public transport?
Yes, the tour is near public transportation, and logistics are pre-arranged to maximize convenience.

What makes this tour stand out?
The full customization, expert guides, and ability to avoid crowded tourist spots while exploring London’s hidden gems.