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

Exploring London becomes much more accessible and engaging with this combined package that includes the London Eye, a Big Bus hop-on hop-off tour for 24 or 48 hours, and a Thames River cruise. Priced at $82.42 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive way to see the city’s top sights from the streets, water, and sky, making it ideal for visitors wanting flexibility and convenience. While the overall rating sits at 3.5 out of 5 based on 252 reviews, many highlight the value and standout experiences such as the London Eye and river cruise.

This package is especially well-suited for those who enjoy seeing multiple attractions in one day, with the hop-on hop-off bus allowing you to explore at your own pace. However, reviewers note that traffic and bus frequency can sometimes affect timing, so planning ahead helps ensure you enjoy all the included activities. The mobile ticket system makes it easy to activate your tour from any Big Bus stop across London.

Key Points

• Includes the London Eye entry ticket with options to choose a 24 or 48-hour hop-on hop-off bus pass
• River cruise along the Thames offers scenic views and live commentary in English
• Flexible sightseeing with multiple stops across iconic landmarks like Trafalgar Square, Westminster, and Tower of London
• Cost-effective package for seeing London from water, air, and land for $82.42
• Review highlights: excellent views from the London Eye and river cruise, though bus wait times and traffic can be challenging
• No hotel transfers or food included, so plan for meals and accommodations separately

The London Eye Experience: Stunning City Views from 135 Meters

The tour features entry to the London Eye, London’s most popular observation wheel, which rises 135 meters above the River Thames. Travelers appreciate the panoramic vistas that capture many of London’s top sights from above, including the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey.

The ticket must be pre-booked with a specific time slot, which you can arrange via a link on your voucher. While most reviewers find the viewing experience memorable, some mention that staff at the eye don’t always accept QR codes from third-party providers, so activating your ticket early at the designated Big Bus stops is recommended to avoid delays.

Navigating London with the Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Tour

The Big Bus offers a 24 or 48-hour ticket, with stops at key landmarks such as Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square, Whitehall, and Buckingham Palace. You can hop on and off as often as you like, making it easy to explore at your own pace.

The itinerary covers an extensive route, including stops at Harrods, Natural History Museum, Kensington Palace, Notting Hill, and more. Reviewers note that bus frequency can vary—some experience long waits of up to 50 minutes during busy times—so using the live tracking app can help plan your day.

The buses pass beneath London’s iconic bridges and through neighborhoods rich with character. The audioguide, available in 7 languages, helps enhance the experience by providing historical tidbits and fun facts at each stop.

Thames River Cruise: Pass Beneath London’s Famous Bridges

The river cruise runs along the Thames, offering a different perspective of the city. Passengers glide past landmarks such as London Bridge, Tower of London, and Westminster Pier while enjoying live commentary.

The cruise is a one-way trip provided by City Cruises, and many reviews praise its scenic views and informative narration. However, some report crowding on the ferry and standing on the upper deck, especially during popular times, which can detract from the comfort.

Travelers are advised to arrive early and pre-book their cruise tickets to avoid disappointment. It’s a highlight for many seeking a relaxed view of London from the water.

Logistics and How to Use Your Mobile Ticket

The mobile ticket allows activation at any Big Bus stop across the city. To start, travelers should pre-book and activate their ticket using the provided QR code or link. Activation begins from the time you first use the ticket, with validity periods of 24 or 48 hours.

The London Eye‘s ticket requires booking in advance through a special link provided on your voucher, and it’s crucial to schedule the visit to avoid missing your window. The bus and river cruise are arranged to be flexible, but traffic and crowds can influence timing.

Ratings and Common Feedback

While the overall rating stands at 3.5 out of 5, reviews reflect a mixed experience. Many praise the spectacular views from the London Eye and the river cruise, describing them as highlights of the trip. The value for the combined ticket is also appreciated, especially when booking ahead of time.

However, long wait times for buses, sometimes up to 50 minutes, and traffic delays on the routes can be frustrating. Some users experienced issues with ticket validation or delays in receiving their London Eye tickets, which underscores the importance of early and proper activation.

Tips for Making the Most of This Tour

To maximize your experience, pre-book all tickets, especially the London Eye slot, and use live tracking apps for buses to minimize wait times. Be prepared for possible traffic delays, and plan extra time for each activity during busy periods.

For those sensitive to crowds, try to visit popular stops early in the day. Remember that no food or drinks are included, so bring snacks or plan to eat between stops. The audio commentary enhances the experience, so don’t forget your headphones.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This tour appeals most to visitors seeking convenient access to London’s top sights with flexible scheduling. It’s suitable for families, first-time visitors, and those who want a comprehensive view of the city without the hassle of multiple bookings.

Travelers who enjoy scenic views from above and relaxing boat trips will find the London Eye and Thames cruise highlights particularly worthwhile. However, it’s less ideal for those who are concerned about traffic delays or prefer more personalized guided experiences.

London Eye Ticket, Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Tour & River Cruise: Final Thoughts

This combined ticket offers great value for a day of sightseeing in London, blending stunning aerial views, land-based exploration, and a scenic waterway. The $82.42 price makes it a competitive option, especially with the extra 24 hours free in August.

While the experience is quite rewarding for those who plan carefully, traffic and bus frequency issues can sometimes pose challenges. Travelers who manage expectations and plan ahead will find the highlighted attractions—the London Eye and river cruise—to be memorable features of their London visit.

This tour provides a robust overview of London’s most iconic sights, making it a practical choice for first-time visitors or anyone looking for an easy, all-in-one sightseeing experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to pre-book the London Eye tickets separately?
Yes, the London Eye ticket requires booking in advance through a link on your voucher to select your time slot.

How long is the hop-on hop-off bus valid?
Your 24 or 48-hour ticket begins from the moment you activate it at any Big Bus stop, allowing flexible access to the routes.

Can I use the QR code on my phone for entry?
Most reviews indicate that staff at the London Eye may not always accept QR codes from third-party providers; activating your ticket early in person is recommended.

Is food included in this tour?
No, meals and drinks are not included. You should plan for meals separately.

What stops are included on the bus routes?
The routes cover numerous stops, including Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace, Tower of London, and Kensington Palace, among others.

What should I do if I experience long wait times or delays?
Use the live tracking app for buses, and plan to arrive early for scheduled activities like the London Eye to ensure a smooth day.