Canterbury’s guided tours pack impressive value for history-loving travelers. The most reliable options come from the city’s official Green Badge guides, who really know their stuff – earning a remarkable 97% thumbs-up from past visitors. Their walking tours hit all the must-see spots while sharing stories that bring Canterbury’s past to life.
Private tours work great for folks wanting to zero in on specific interests – you can focus on the stunning cathedral architecture, peek into hidden gardens, or follow literary footsteps. Outside the city walls, electric bike tours around nearby Akaroa offer a fun, less touristy way to explore the countryside.
Let’s look at our favorite Canterbury tours, ranked by value and experience:
Key Points
- Official guided walking tours in Canterbury are highly recommended, with a 97% recommendation rate and access to areas often missed by larger tour vehicles.
- Private guided tours in Canterbury offer a 165-minute experience covering city highlights and the Cathedral, with a focus on engaging storytelling.
- Guided electric bike tours in Akaroa provide a unique way to explore stunning landscapes, with various tour options catering to different fitness levels.
- Personalized private guided walking tours in Canterbury offer a customizable 1.5-hour experience led by qualified Green Badge Guides, exploring key landmarks.
- Specialized guided tours of Canterbury, such as the Privately Guided Tour of Canterbury and Cathedral, focus on pilgrims’ tales and Thomas Becket’s history.
Official Canterbury Guided Walking Tour – 14.00 Tour
The Official Canterbury Guided Walking Tour at 14:00 offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the city’s historic landmarks and hidden gems.
With a 97% recommendation rate from 186 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this 90-minute tour promises an engaging and informative experience.
Led by fully qualified Green Badge Canterbury City Guides, the tour takes guests through the Cathedral precincts and medieval lanes, revealing the stories of historical figures, writers, artists, and local hauntings.
Visitors will discover impressive sights, including the iconic Canterbury Cathedral, as they learn about the city’s rich cultural heritage.
The tour is accessible to all, with wheelchair and stroller access, as well as a carer policy for guests with disabilities.
Priced at €18.07 per person, the tour offers a flexible booking option with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking to delve deeper into Canterbury’s past, the Official Canterbury Guided Walking Tour is a must-do experience.
Read our full review: Official Canterbury Guided Walking Tour – 14.00 Tour Review
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Canterbury: Walking Tour With Green Badge Guide
What better way to take in the rich history and charming character of Canterbury than on a guided walking tour led by a professionally qualified Green Badge City Guide?
For just $18.53 per person, the Canterbury: Walking Tour With Green Badge Guide offers 1.5 hours of exploration through the city’s historic streets and sites. Visitors will access the Cathedral grounds, stroll down narrow cobbled lanes, and hear tales of Canterbury’s colorful past from knowledgeable local guides.
Rated 4.8/5 based on 439 reviews, this tour consistently delights with its engaging content and discovery of hidden gems like the Crooked House and Eastbridge Hospital.
Accommodating wheelchairs and well-behaved dogs, the tour operates rain or shine, though access to the Cathedral may be restricted on certain dates.
With 4.9/5 guide ratings and 4.8/5 value for money, this is an unbeatable way to experience the best of historic Canterbury.
Read our full review: Canterbury: Walking Tour With Green Badge Guide Review
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Akaroa Explorer- Guided Electric Bike Tour in Akaroa
While exploring the picturesque harbor town of Akaroa, visitors can embark on an exhilarating 2.5-hour guided electric bike tour. Recommended by 92% of travelers, the tour boasts a 4.7 overall rating from 12 reviews. Groups are kept small, with a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
The tour features pedal-assisted electric bikes, making it easy to cycle up hills and cover more ground. Riders will explore Akaroa Harbour, coastal routes, and the crater rim, taking in stunning natural scenery. Safety gear, including high visibility vests, gloves, and helmets, is provided.
The tour departs from The Common in central Akaroa at 10:45 am, with the option for cruise ship passengers to arrange transportation in advance. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate.
Priced from $78.24 per person, the Akaroa Explorer is a must-do activity for visitors to the Canterbury region.
Read our full review: Akaroa Explorer- Guided Electric Bike Tour in Akaroa Review
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Canterbury City & Cathedral – Private Guided Tour
Moving on from the exhilarating electric bike tour in Akaroa, visitors to the Canterbury region can now embark on a private guided exploration of the historic city of Canterbury and its renowned cathedral.
Priced at $260.63 for up to 2 participants, this 165-minute tour covers the city’s highlights, including the Butter Market, Butchery Lane, Mercery Lane, High Street, and the Eastbridge Hospital of St Thomas the Martyr.
Guests will also visit the iconic Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and learn about the city’s rich history, from Thomas Becket’s murder to the peasants’ revolts.
Led by officially qualified guides fluent in English, French, and German, the tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing all visitors to enjoy Canterbury’s captivating past.
With a 5/5 rating based on 2 reviews, this private guided tour offers an engaging and informative experience for those seeking to discover the best of Canterbury.
Read our full review: Canterbury City & Cathedral – Private Guided Tour Review
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Guided Electric Mountain Bike Tour- Akaroa Explorer
Visitors to the Canterbury region can embark on an exhilarating Guided Electric Mountain Bike Tour in the picturesque town of Akaroa. This 5-star rated tour accommodates up to 10 travelers aged 11 and above.
Led by a local guide, the tour provides a helmet, high visibility vest, cycling gloves, and a riding backpack with a phone holster, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience.
The tour departs from The Common in Akaroa, with the end point returning to the same location. The electric mountain bikes allow riders to explore the area’s stunning landscapes with ease, making it accessible for most travelers.
However, the tour isn’t recommended for those with back or heart problems, or serious medical conditions.
Priced at €75.16 per person, the tour includes all necessary equipment and gratuities. Though non-refundable, the confirmation is received at the time of booking.
This guided electric bike tour offers an exciting way to discover the natural beauty of Akaroa and the surrounding Canterbury region.
Read our full review: Guided Electric Mountain Bike Tour- Akaroa Explorer Review
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Private Guided Walking Tour of Canterbury
Travelers seeking a comprehensive introduction to Canterbury’s historic charm can embark on a Private Guided Walking Tour. This tour offers a 100% recommendation rate from past guests, and an accredited guide who shares captivating stories and historical anecdotes along the way.
The walking tour covers Canterbury’s medieval lanes, inns, gardens, and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cathedral precincts, although entrance to attractions isn’t included.
The tour is available in English, French, or German, with flexible departure times for convenience. It’s wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are welcome.
While most travelers can participate, late arrivals should contact the guide, as the tour may be shortened or canceled. Priced from $150.51 per group (up to 2 people), the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option.
Positive reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge, storytelling, and ability to bring history to life, leaving guests eager to revisit Canterbury.
Read our full review: Private Guided Walking Tour of Canterbury Review
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Canterbury: City Highlights Guided Walking Tour
Offering a comprehensive introduction to Canterbury’s historic highlights, the Canterbury: City Highlights Guided Walking Tour takes guests on a captivating journey through the city’s medieval lanes, inns, gardens, and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cathedral precincts.
Led by knowledgeable Green Badge guides, the 1.5-hour walking tour provides an immersive experience, with an average customer rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 439 reviews.
Priced at £15.00 per person, the tour is a popular choice, allowing visitors to discover Canterbury’s rich heritage and architecture.
From the iconic Canterbury Cathedral to the charming streets, the tour offers a well-rounded overview of the city’s must-see sights.
With its convenient duration and reasonable cost, the Canterbury: City Highlights Guided Walking Tour is an excellent option for those seeking a focused, yet comprehensive introduction to this historic English destination.
Read our full review: Canterbury: City Highlights Guided Walking Tour Review
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Official Canterbury Guided Walking Tour – 11.00 Tour
The Official Canterbury Guided Walking Tour – 11:00 Tour provides an immersive experience for exploring the historic city on foot.
This 90-minute tour, led by fully qualified Green Badge Canterbury City Guides, offers an insider’s glimpse of the city’s hidden gems. With a maximum group size of 30 travelers, you’ll discover charming lanes and the famous Cathedral Precincts often missed by larger tour vehicles.
The tour’s highlights include stories about ghosts, authors, and historical figures, as well as access to the central city lanes.
However, please note that the Cathedral Precincts will be closed on January 13-15. Reviewers praise the engaging and knowledgeable guides, though some experiences may vary.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, stroller friendly, and welcomes well-behaved dogs on leads. With a 96% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this tour provides excellent value at $18.81 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Official Canterbury Guided Walking Tour – 11.00 Tour Review
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Canterbury: Personalized Private Guided Walking Tour
A personalized private guided walking tour of Canterbury offers an immersive experience to explore the historic city’s medieval lanes and Cathedral Precincts.
Led by qualified Green Badge Guides, the 1.5-hour tour is priced from $148.23 for up to 2 participants. Guests can customize the itinerary based on their interests, whether it’s architecture, gardens, or literature.
Key sights include Canterbury Cathedral, The King’s School, and historical buildings like The Crooked House and Eastbridge Hospital. Guides share captivating stories about Thomas Becket’s murder, Chaucer’s pilgrims, and royal visits.
With an overall rating of 4.9/5 from 14 reviews, guests praise the guides’ knowledge and engaging storytelling.
The tour starts at Butter Market and includes stops at Butchery Lane, Mercery Lane, and the Precincts, with optional visits to The King’s Mile, The Marlowe, and High Street.
Wheelchair accessible and operating in all weather, this personalized tour offers an immersive look into Canterbury’s rich history.
Read our full review: Canterbury: Personalized Private Guided Walking Tour Review
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Lava Loop- Guided Electric Mountain Bike Tour in Akaroa
Departing from Canterbury’s historic charm, the Lava Loop- Guided Electric Mountain Bike Tour in Akaroa invites adventurous travelers to explore the volcanic landscapes of New Zealand’s Banks Peninsula.
This 3.5-hour guided tour on electric mountain bikes promises an exhilarating experience, with a maximum group size of 7 travelers.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, the tour takes participants through the scenic coastal town of Akaroa, providing breathtaking views of the harbor and surrounding hills.
Inclusive of a high-visibility vest, helmet, and a backpack with a phone holster, the tour ensures both safety and convenience for the riders.
With a moderate physical fitness level required, the tour isn’t suitable for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions.
Departing at 3:30 PM, the tour is priced at $89.83 per person and concludes back at the meeting point.
Gratuities are included, and the tour receives a 100% recommendation rate from 32 reviews, with a 4.9 rating.
Read our full review: Lava Loop- Guided Electric Mountain Bike Tour in Akaroa Review
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Canterbury Private Guided Walking Tour
Canterbury’s historic charm beckons travelers to embark on a private guided walking tour, immersing them in the city’s medieval allure and ancient roots.
For 1.5 hours, a local professional guide will lead a private group of up to 15 participants on a journey through Canterbury’s storied past, highlighting key landmarks like the Canterbury Cathedral, St. Augustine’s Abbey, and Canterbury Castle.
Priced at £231.89 per group, this private tour offers exceptional value, with all entrance fees and gratuities included.
Guests can explore the city’s winding medieval alleyways, timber-framed houses, and scenic riverside gardens, while gaining insights into Canterbury’s significance as a pilgrimage site during the Middle Ages and its resilient history shaped by the Anglo-Saxons and the Dissolution of the Monasteries.
With a 5/5 rating based on a single review, this tour promises a captivating and informative experience for those seeking to uncover the rich cultural heritage of Canterbury.
Read our full review: Canterbury Private Guided Walking Tour Review
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Privately Guided Tour of Canterbury and Canterbury Cathedral
Although the tour begins at Canterbury West Station, guests will quickly find themselves immersed in the city’s rich history, led by a Blue Badge guide with over two decades of local expertise.
The focus will be on Canterbury’s captivating past, including tales of the legendary pilgrims and the infamous Thomas Becket. With a maximum of 5 people per booking, the experience promises an intimate and personalized encounter.
Visitors can expect to explore the iconic Canterbury Cathedral, though entrance fees are an additional cost. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so appropriate dress is recommended.
While the tour itself is reasonably priced, starting from $307.28 per group, it’s important to note that it doesn’t include food, drink, transportation, or gratuities.
This tour may not be suitable for those with limited mobility or serious medical conditions, as a moderate fitness level is required.
Read our full review: Privately Guided Tour of Canterbury and Canterbury Cathedral Review
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The Sum Up
Canterbury offers a variety of guided tours, catering to diverse interests. From walking tours of the historic city and cathedral to electric bike adventures, visitors can explore the region’s rich heritage and natural beauty. Whether seeking an official tour or a personalized experience, there are numerous options to choose from, ensuring a memorable and informative exploration of Canterbury.