London’s Christmas season offers practical ways to experience the city’s holiday magic. The most efficient options combine sightseeing with festive charm. We love the evening bike tours – they’re inexpensive and cover more ground than walking tours. The glass-roofed black cab tours earn our recommendation for their combination of comfort and expert commentary, especially valuable on cold winter nights.
Walking tours through Covent Garden and Trafalgar Square provide the best value, letting you experience the markets and decorations up close. For something special, the Christmas Eve dinner tour pairs sightseeing with a memorable meal. The Dickens-themed walks effectively connect literature to London’s Victorian Christmas traditions.
Let’s explore the most worthwhile Christmas tours in London.
Key Points
- Experience the magic of London’s Christmas lights on a bike tour, taxi tour, or open-top bus tour, with knowledgeable guides and personalized experiences.
- Discover unique Christmas experiences in London, including a Christmas Eve city tour with a festive dinner and Midnight Mass.
- Explore the literary history of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” on a guided tour, with expert insights and lesser-known London locations.
- Enjoy the convenience and comfort of private and personalized Christmas tours, with options for taxi and black cab experiences.
- Enjoy the festive atmosphere of London’s Christmas markets and walking tours, with mulled wine and group photo opportunities.
Christmas Lights Bike Tour of London
The Christmas Lights Bike Tour of London offers visitors a magical evening adventure through the city’s dazzling holiday displays.
Tour highlights include exploring Oxford Street, the South Banks Winter Market, and the iconic Harrods windows.
Participants can expect a personalized experience in a small group of up to 12 travelers. The tour includes bike and helmet rental, as well as a local guide and a festive Santa hat.
While food and drinks aren’t provided, the flexible start time allows for private tours to accommodate individual needs.
With a 96% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this tour is an efficient and fun way to see London’s Christmas lights.
Read our full review: Christmas Lights Bike Tour of London Review
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London: Magical Christmas Lights Guided Tour by Private Taxi
Frequently, visitors to London during the holiday season flock to the city’s dazzling Christmas lights displays.
For those seeking a unique way to experience the festive illuminations, the “London: Magical Christmas Lights Guided Tour by Private Taxi” offers an exceptional opportunity. This 3-hour tour allows up to 6 people to enjoy the sights in the comfort of a private taxi with a glass roof.
Guests can marvel at iconic landmarks like the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace while a knowledgeable guide provides historical insights. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a bottle of water, and the chance to hop out for photos.
With a 5/5 rating, this tour provides a special and memorable way to experience London’s Christmas magic.
Read our full review: London: Magical Christmas Lights Guided Tour by Private Taxi Review
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London by Night Open Top Bus Tour With Christmas Lights
Offering a unique perspective on London’s renowned Christmas lights, the “London by Night Open Top Bus Tour with Christmas Lights” invites travelers to marvel at the city’s iconic landmarks adorned in their festive splendor.
This 1.5-hour guided experience showcases Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly, Regent Street, and Oxford Street, providing panoramic views of the dazzling illuminations.
While the tour doesn’t include food or restrooms, the live English-speaking guide brings historical and cultural insights to the journey.
With a maximum capacity of 72 travelers, this non-hop-on-hop-off tour caters to those seeking a leisurely sightseeing experience.
Guests should dress warmly and expect potential delays due to London’s notoriously heavy traffic, especially during the Christmas season.
Read our full review: London by Night Open Top Bus Tour With Christmas Lights Review
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London: Christmas Lights Guided Walking Tour
For those seeking a more immersive experience beyond the open-top bus tour, the London: Christmas Lights Guided Walking Tour offers an intimate exploration of the city’s dazzling holiday displays.
Lasting 2 hours, this walking tour takes participants to iconic landmarks like Covent Garden, Regent Street, and Piccadilly Circus, providing insights from a knowledgeable local guide.
Priced from £78.23 per person, the tour accommodates groups of up to 10, with pickup included from central London.
Guests can expect to enjoy the festive atmosphere, enjoy seasonal delights, and discover unique shopping opportunities along the way.
With free cancellation and a pay-later option, the London: Christmas Lights Guided Walking Tour is a convenient and memorable way to experience London’s magical Christmas lights.
Read our full review: London: Christmas Lights Guided Walking Tour Review
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Private Tour: Traditional Black Cab Tour of London’s Christmas Lights
A beloved option for experiencing London’s dazzling Christmas lights is the Private Tour: Traditional Black Cab Tour of London’s Christmas Lights.
Rated 4.9 out of 74 reviews, this 3-hour private tour transports guests in a classic black cab, allowing them to cruise through the city’s most festive neighborhoods.
Highlights include viewing iconic landmarks like Big Ben and the London Eye while hopping out for photo opportunities and exploring shop windows.
The tour can conclude at the traveler’s hotel or Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland.
With professional guides, comfortable transportation, and a personalized experience, this tour is a top choice for families and groups looking to enjoy London’s magical holiday atmosphere.
Read our full review: Private Tour: Traditional Black Cab Tour of London’s Christmas Lights Review
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London: Christmas Lights Bus Tour
Explore London’s dazzling Christmas lights on a festive bus tour that transports guests through the city’s most enchanting neighborhoods.
Priced from $34.42 per person, the 100-minute tour aboard a vintage double-decker bus allows visitors to admire the twinkling displays along Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Knightsbridge.
Knowledgeable guides provide live commentary, sharing historical insights as the bus passes landmarks like Big Ben and Trafalgar Square.
While open-top seating isn’t guaranteed, the tour is suitable for most travelers, though not for those with mobility issues.
With a 4-out-of-5 overall rating, this experience offers excellent value for money and a memorable way to experience London’s Christmas magic.
Read our full review: London: Christmas Lights Bus Tour Review
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London Christmas Lights Private Tour
Those seeking a more intimate and personalized way to experience London’s captivating Christmas lights can opt for the London Christmas Lights Private Tour.
This 5-star rated experience offers a private ride in a classic black cab with an experienced London cabbie. The tour visits decorated hotspots like Oxford Street, Mayfair, and Trafalgar Square, allowing travelers to tailor the itinerary for a customized adventure.
With accessibility features, bottled water, and a low-price guarantee, this tour provides a magical, comfortable, and value-driven way to take in London’s festive atmosphere.
Travelers praise the driver’s knowledge, attention to safety, and the overall quality of this unique Christmas experience.
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Christmas Photoshoot in London
Capturing the magic of London’s Christmas season through professional photography has become a sought-after experience for many visitors.
The [FACTS] highlight a new activity, “Christmas Photography and Videography Photoshoot”, which offers a unique opportunity to capture the festive atmosphere of the city.
Lasting one hour and with a small group, this experience allows participants to work with a professional photographer to take stunning shots of London’s iconic landmarks adorned with twinkling lights and holiday decorations.
Priced at Kč 5,476 per person, this photographic adventure is perfect for those looking to preserve their memories of a London Christmas in a creative and personal way.
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Christmas Lights Walking Tour in London
A popular way to experience the dazzling Christmas lights of London is through the Christmas Lights Walking Tour.
This 5-star rated tour takes travelers on a guided walk through the city’s most festive neighborhoods, showcasing the magnificent holiday lights and decorations.
Starting at Covent Garden station, the tour leads participants to iconic locations like Carnaby Street, ending just a 5-minute walk from Oxford Street.
With a maximum of 5 travelers, the tour provides a personalized experience led by a professional guide.
Accessible to wheelchair users and stroller-pushers, this 1-hour evening tour is a great way to get into the Christmas spirit in London.
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London: Christmas Lights by Night Open-Top Bus Tour
The London: Christmas Lights by Night Open-Top Bus Tour offers travelers a captivating way to experience the city’s dazzling holiday illuminations.
This 1.5-hour tour showcases London’s iconic landmarks adorned with twinkling lights, including Regent Street, Oxford Street, and Trafalgar Square. Guests can admire one of the tallest Christmas trees in Trafalgar Square and enjoy commentary from an English-speaking live guide.
Priced from $36.70 per person, the tour is likely to sell out, so it’s best to check availability and reserve in advance.
With a 4.1/5 overall rating based on over 2,400 reviews, the tour provides excellent value for money and a truly festive experience.
Read our full review: London: Christmas Lights by Night Open-Top Bus Tour Review
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A Christmas Carol & Charles Dickens Small Group Walking Tour
For fans of Charles Dickens and his beloved novella “A Christmas Carol,” the London Christmas Carol & Charles Dickens Small Group Walking Tour provides a captivating glimpse into the author’s life and the inspirations behind his timeless tale.
With a maximum group size of 10, travelers embark on a 3-hour journey led by a knowledgeable guide through the lesser-known parts of London that shaped Dickens’ iconic work. Highlights include unique sites related to the author and insightful discussions on his inspirations.
The tour’s 5-star reviews attest to the enthusiasm and expertise of the guides, as well as the enjoyable pace and inclusion of breaks.
Ideal for Dickens enthusiasts and history buffs, this tour offers a one-of-a-kind Christmas experience in the heart of London.
Read our full review: A Christmas Carol & Charles Dickens Small Group Walking Tour Review
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London: Christmas Eve City Tour With Dinner & Midnight Mass
Travelers can embark on a delightful 6-hour Christmas Eve city tour in London that combines sightseeing, fine dining, and a special Midnight Mass experience.
Priced from $158.19 per person, the tour includes a guided bus ride to see the city’s festive lights and landmarks like Westminster Abbey and Big Ben.
A three-course dinner with a glass of Prosecco at Brown’s restaurant is followed by attending Midnight Mass at the iconic St. Martin-in-the-Fields Church.
Participants receive a special Christmas gift and can cancel for a full refund up to 7 days in advance.
Recent reviews praise the tour guide and dinner, though some note room for improvement in certain areas.
Read our full review: London: Christmas Eve City Tour With Dinner & Midnight Mass Review
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Private Christmas Lights Taxi Tour With Pick up
What better way to experience London’s enchanting Christmas lights than on a private taxi tour? Rated 5.0 out of 5 with 17 reviews, this private experience offers a personalized journey through the city’s festive displays.
Travelers can enjoy the convenience of door-to-door pickup, air-conditioning, and WiFi, as well as opportunities for photos and insights into London’s history and decorations.
The tour includes stops for drinks and snacks, and the price of £522.28 per group of up to 6 people represents excellent value.
With a badge of excellence and 100% recommendation, this private Christmas lights taxi tour is an unforgettable way to celebrate the holiday season in the heart of London.
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London: Magical Christmas Lights Walking Tour!
Enjoy the magic of London’s enchanting Christmas lights on this captivating walking tour.
Lasting two hours, this small-group guided experience showcases the city’s dazzling seasonal displays.
Discover famous landmarks and hidden gems, including the sparkling Covent Garden market and a secret garden illuminated by gas lamps.
Stroll along the prestigious New Bond Street and explore London’s best Christmas markets.
Hear entertaining stories about Christmas traditions as you take in the twinkling lights of Regent Street, Bond Street, and the colorful Carnaby Street.
With a fully qualified tour guide, this is a must-do activity for anyone seeking to capture the true spirit of a London Christmas.
Reserve your spot now and pay later.
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Christmas Lights and Markets Guided Walking Tour With Mulled Wine
Set out on a captivating journey through London’s enchanting Christmas lights and bustling markets on this guided walking tour.
Led by friendly and knowledgeable guides, you’ll explore the city’s festive sights while sipping on a warming glass of mulled wine.
Starting at Covent Garden and ending in Trafalgar Square, the tour promises engaging stories about Christmas traditions and personalized touches like group photos to enhance the experience.
With a maximum group size of 10, this tour offers an intimate and immersive way to discover London’s holiday magic.
Suitable for families, including children, it’s no wonder this tour is recommended by 100% of travelers and boasts a perfect 5-star rating.
Read our full review: Christmas Lights and Markets Guided Walking Tour With Mulled Wine Review
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London: Private Christmas Lights and Markets Walking Tour
This private 3-hour walking tour offers visitors an enchanting exploration of London’s festive Christmas lights and bustling markets.
Priced at €180.81 for groups of up to 15, the tour takes participants through iconic landmarks like Covent Garden and Piccadilly Circus, showcasing stunning light displays and lively holiday markets.
Along the way, a local guide shares insights into London’s history and culture.
Though not suitable for wheelchair users, the tour provides an opportunity to capture beautiful photographs and indulge in the city’s festive spirit.
With limited availability, it’s advisable to book in advance to secure a spot on this magical Christmas experience.
Read our full review: London: Private Christmas Lights and Markets Walking Tour Review
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Magical Christmas Walking Tour in London
The London Magical Christmas Walking Tour offers visitors a captivating journey through the city’s festive sights and sounds.
Led by enthusiastic guides like Ollie, Sabrina, and Mariana, the 2.5-hour tour showcases London’s enchanting Christmas lights, bustling markets, and historical anecdotes.
Priced from $33.53 per person, the tour accommodates a maximum of 20 travelers and is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
Highlights include visits to key spots for the best holiday photos and admission to the iconic Winter Wonderland.
With a 4.5-star rating from 29 reviews, the tour provides a delightful way to experience London’s festive spirit, making it a must-do for holiday visitors.
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London: Christmas Day Sightseeing Cruise
For those seeking to experience London’s iconic landmarks from a unique vantage point on Christmas Day, the London: Christmas Day Sightseeing Cruise offers a delightful option. Priced from $34.17 per person, the 1-hour cruise provides panoramic views of the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, London Eye, and Big Ben.
Guests can enjoy live commentary in multiple languages and purchase festive beverages and snacks onboard. While the cruise is family-friendly, with under 5s traveling free, customer reviews suggest issues with departure location changes on Christmas Day, leading to missed cruises.
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Bespoke Black Cab London Christmas Lights and Sights Private Tour
A delightful option for those seeking to experience London’s iconic landmarks and festive lights is the Bespoke Black Cab London Christmas Lights and Sights Private Tour.
With 100% positive reviews, this tour allows travelers to explore the city’s popular spots like Harrods, Leicester Square, and Bond Street in the cozy comfort of a private, glass-roof taxicab.
The experience is perfect for couples and families, offering convenience with multiple tour times and accessibility for wheelchairs and strollers.
Guests can enjoy the sights while staying warm and connected, thanks to the air-conditioned vehicle and onboard WiFi.
At just $560.97 per group, this private tour provides an unforgettable way to celebrate the holiday season in London.
Read our full review: Bespoke Black Cab London Christmas Lights and Sights Private Tour Review
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London: Christmas Lights Tour in a Black Cab
Explore London’s enchanting Christmas lights and iconic landmarks from the comfort of a traditional black cab.
This 2.5-hour tour offers a unique way to experience the city’s festive displays at night. You’ll see major sights like Battersea Power Station, Chelsea’s Kings Road, and Oxford Street’s sparkling illuminations, with numerous photo stops along the way.
The tour includes a licensed London taxi driver who doubles as a registered tourist guide, providing live commentary. Refreshment stops are also included.
With a group price from €420.70 for up to 6 participants and free cancellation, this tour is an excellent value. Pickup is provided at central London hotels, and the experience is wheelchair accessible.
Read our full review: London: Christmas Lights Tour in a Black Cab Review
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Recap
London offers a variety of festive tours and experiences to enjoy the city’s stunning Christmas lights. From bike tours and guided walks to private taxi and bus rides, there’s something for all to enjoy the magical atmosphere of the holiday season in the capital. Whether you’re looking for a traditional black cab tour or a scenic cruise, London’s Christmas lights are sure to make your holiday season extra special.