The Oxford: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour offers an accessible, flexible way to explore this historic city. Priced at $26.27 per person for a 24 or 48-hour ticket, it provides panoramic views from an open-top double-decker bus as you visit some of Oxford’s most iconic sights. The tour covers major landmarks such as Oxford Castle, Queen’s College, and the Radcliffe Camera, making it a practical choice for first-time visitors or those who want a broad overview of the city’s architecture and history.

What makes this tour stand out is its combination of convenience, informative commentary in 14 languages, and the opportunity to hop on and off at well-located stops throughout the city. The inclusion of a guided walking tour (seasonal) and entry to Carfax Tower with certain ticket options adds extra value for those eager to deepen their experience. While the bus tour lasts around 40 minutes per circuit, the flexibility to explore at your own pace and the helpful, friendly drivers make this a strong contender for exploring Oxford efficiently.

Key Points

Flexible 24 or 48-hour hop-on hop-off bus tickets make it easy to explore Oxford at your own pace.
Audio guides available in 14 languages ensure accessibility for international visitors.
Stops near all major sights, including Oxford Castle, Westgate Shopping Centre, and the University’s historic colleges.
Panoramic views from the open-top bus highlight Oxford’s honey-colored architecture and scenic streets.
A seasonal guided walking tour offers additional insight into Oxford’s historic sites.
Ticket upgrades include entry to Carfax Tower, one of Oxford’s most notable landmarks.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Oxford’s Landmark Stops

The tour begins at the Visitor Information Point on High Street, where the buses depart at regular intervals, especially during peak season from 9:30 am to 6:30 pm. The stops are strategically placed throughout the city, including Oxford Castle, which is one of the most significant landmarks, and the Westgate Shopping Centre, perfect for some retail therapy after sightseeing. The bus passes by the Ashmolean Museum, Sheldonian Theatre, and the historic Carfax junction, offering quick glimpses of Oxford’s architectural gems.

The stop at Christ Church allows visitors to admire the university’s famous college, while the Radcliffe Camera provides a stunning view of Oxford’s iconic reading room. Notably, Stops 19 and 20 are temporarily closed, but alternative stops at Stop 16 or 18 and Stop 3 or 15 ensure that access to major sights remains straightforward.

For broader city exploration in Oxford, we've covered these other tours

From the Old Town to Meadow Lane’s Serenity

One of the highlights of the tour is the chance to enjoy panoramic views of Oxford’s oldest colleges from the open-top deck. As the bus glides through Meadow Lane, a peaceful stretch lined with historic university buildings, visitors get a relaxed perspective of the city’s academic heartbeat. The scenery along Meadow Lane offers a tranquil contrast to the busier parts, perfect for appreciating Oxford’s quiet charm.

The bus route also covers Wadham College, Trinity College, and Magdalen Street East, giving passengers a comprehensive look at the university’s extensive grounds. Stops at these locations allow for quick drops-off or photo opportunities, and the audio commentary enhances the understanding of each site’s significance.

Carfax Tower and Its Viewpoint

A key feature included with certain ticket options is entry to Carfax Tower, the highest point in Oxford, offering sweeping views of the city. The tower is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, weather permitting, and provides a chance to see Oxford from above. This attraction is not suitable for children under 5, so families should plan accordingly.

The upgraded ticket that includes access to Carfax Tower is especially popular among visitors who want a more complete experience. Its proximity to the Carfax junction makes it an easy addition to the bus tour, and the view from the top offers a fresh perspective on the city’s historic skyline.

Practicalities: Meeting Points and Convenience

The tour departs from the Visitor Information Point at 44-45 High Street, making it easy for visitors to start their exploration. The buses run every 10-15 minutes during peak months from April through August, ensuring minimal wait times. The activity ends back at the same meeting point, simplifying logistics.

The buses are well-maintained and spotlessly clean, with friendly drivers who assist with questions and help organize quick seat swaps during low power situations, as noted in reviews. Headphones are provided for the audio guide, which is available in multiple languages, ensuring clear narration for international visitors.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Guided Walking Tour and Additional Activities

Seasonal guided walking tours are included in the package and depart from the Oxford Visitor Information Point at 11:30 am, 12:30 pm, 2:30 pm, and 3:30 pm. These tours last approximately 45 minutes and focus on areas like the Bodleian Library and Radcliffe Square. The guides are praised for their friendly, informative style, making this a worthwhile addition for those who prefer a more intimate exploration.

This tour also offers optional add-ons, such as river cruises or visits to other landmarks, providing further ways to enjoy Oxford beyond the bus route.

While you're exploring Oxford, here are other experiences we've looked into

Timing and Accessibility Details

The bus tour typically lasts around 40 minutes per circuit, with frequent departures to match demand. During certain events like the Town and Gown Run on May 11th, stops 1 to 10 operate only until 1 pm, so planning accordingly is wise.

The tour is accessible for most visitors, though Carfax Tower is not suitable for under 5s. Pets and smoking are not allowed on the buses, aligning with city regulations. The audio system is easy to understand, but travelers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with how to use the headphones.

Travel During Peak Seasons

From April to August, buses operate from 9:30 am to 6:30 pm, running every 10 to 15 minutes. During this period, the city’s traffic can cause some delays, but the frequent service helps keep waits to a minimum. During the off-peak season, from September to early November, the schedule reduces slightly, ending at 5 pm.

Visitors should prepare for potential delays due to city traffic, especially if they plan to hop on and off multiple times. However, the informative commentary and stunning city views make the experience worthwhile even with occasional stops in traffic.

Value and Overall Impression

At $26.27, this hop-on hop-off bus tour offers great value, especially considering the inclusion of audio guides in multiple languages, seasonal walking tours, and optional entry to Carfax Tower. The high customer ratings of 4.5 out of 5 based on over 600 reviews reflect consistent satisfaction with the friendly staff, clean buses, and comprehensive sightseeing.

Most praise the efficient route, knowledgeable guides (both live and via headphones), and convenient stops near major attractions. The ability to explore at your own pace and the beautiful views from the open top are frequent highlights. Some reviews mention traffic delays or the lack of stop number indicators, but overall, the tour delivers a solid, enjoyable introduction to Oxford.

Ready to Book?

Oxford: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

4.5

(606)

“Very interesting and easy to use, commentary was informative and relevant. Certainly worth doing.”

— Jacqui, May 5, 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the bus tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally accessible to most ages, but Carfax Tower is not suitable for children under 5.

Can I buy tickets on the day?
Yes, tickets are available for purchase on the day, but booking in advance guarantees availability and sometimes offers better flexibility with cancellations.

Are there audio guides in languages other than English?
Yes, the audio commentary is available in 14 languages, including Spanish, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Japanese, Arabic, and Hindi.

Does the tour include entry to any attractions?
Entry to attractions like Carfax Tower is included only if you select the upgrade ticket. The bus tour itself does not include entrance fees to other sites.

What is the duration of the bus circuit?
Each circuit takes approximately 40 minutes, with buses running every 10-15 minutes during peak months.

Are the buses accessible for people with mobility issues?
While the information indicates general accessibility, Carfax Tower is not suitable for under 5s, and specific accessibility features are not detailed, so visitors with mobility concerns should prepare accordingly.

What is the best time to start the tour?
The first departures generally begin at 9:30 am, and starting early helps avoid crowds and traffic delays, especially in peak season.

Can I hop off and explore a specific site?
Absolutely. The hop-on hop-off format allows you to disembark at any stop, explore at your leisure, and catch the next bus to continue your tour.

This Oxford hop-on hop-off bus tour offers a practical, engaging way to see the city’s highlights, with friendly guides, panoramic views, and the flexibility to create your own sightseeing itinerary. It’s well-suited for those looking for a comprehensive introduction to Oxford’s history and architecture without the fuss of navigating on foot or by car.