grand tour london

What was the Grand Tour?

Find out about the travel phenomenon that became popular amongst the young nobility of England

Art, antiquity and architecture: the Grand Tour provided an opportunity to discover the cultural wonders of Europe and beyond.  

Popular throughout the 18th century, this extended journey was seen as a rite of passage for mainly young, aristocratic English men. 

As well as marvelling at artistic masterpieces, Grand Tourists brought back souvenirs to commemorate and display their journeys at home. 

One exceptional example forms the subject of a new exhibition at the National Maritime Museum. Canaletto’s Venice Revisited brings together 24 of Canaletto’s Venetian views, commissioned in 1731 by Lord John Russell following his visit to Venice. 

Find out more about this travel phenomenon – and uncover its rich cultural legacy. 

Canaletto's Venice Revisited

The origins of the Grand Tour

The development of the Grand Tour dates back to the 16th century. 

One of the earliest Grand Tourists was the architect Inigo Jones , who embarked on a tour of Italy in 1613-14 with his patron Thomas Howard, 14th Earl of Arundel. 

Jones visited cities such as Parma, Venice and Rome. However, it was Naples that proved the high point of his travels.  

Jones was particularly fascinated by the San Paolo Maggiore, describing the church as “one of the best things that I have ever seen.” 

Jones’s time in Italy shaped his architectural style. In 1616, Jones was commissioned to design the Queen’s House in Greenwich for Queen Anne of Denmark , the wife of King James I. Completed in around 1636, the house was the first classical building in England. 

The expression ‘Grand Tour’ itself comes from 17th century travel writer and Roman Catholic priest Richard Lassels, who used it in his guidebook The Voyage of Italy, published in 1670. 

By the 18th century, the Grand Tour had reached its zenith. Despite Anglo-French wars in 1689-97 and 1702-13, this was a time of relative stability in Europe, which made travelling across the continent easier. 

The Grand Tour route

For young English aristocrats, embarking on the Grand Tour was seen as an important rite of passage. 

Accompanied by a tutor, a Grand Tourist’s route typically involved taking a ship across the English Channel before travelling in a carriage through France, stopping at Paris and other major cities. 

Italy was also a popular destination thanks to the art and architecture of places such as Venice, Florence, Rome, Milan and Naples. More adventurous travellers ventured to Sicily or even sailed across to Greece. The average Grand Tour lasted for at least a year. 

As Katherine Gazzard, Curator of Art at Royal Museums Greenwich explains, this extended journey marked the culmination of a Grand Tourist’s education.  

“The Grand Tourists would have received an education that was grounded in the Classics,” she says. “During their travels to the continent, they would have seen classical ruins and read Latin and Greek texts. The Grand Tour was also an opportunity to take in more recent culture, such as Renaissance paintings, and see contemporary artists at work.” 

As well as educational opportunities, the Grand Tour was linked with independence. Places such as Venice were popular with pleasure seekers, boasting gambling houses and occasions for drinking and partying.  

“On the Grand Tour, there’s a sense that travellers are gaining some of their independence and having a lesson in the ways of the world,” Gazzard explains. “For visitors to Venice, there were opportunities to behave beyond the social norms, with the masquerade and the carnival.” 

Art and the Grand Tour 

Bound up with the idea of independence was the need to collect souvenirs, which the Grand Tourists could display in their homes.  

“The ownership of property was tied to status, so creating a material legacy was really important for the Grand Tourists in order to solidify their social standing amongst their peers,” says Gazzard. “They were looking to spend money and buy mementos to prove they went on the trip.” 

The works of artists such as those of the 18th century view painter Giovanni Antonio Canal (known as Canaletto ) were especially popular with Grand Tourists. Prized for their detail, Canaletto’s artworks captured the landmarks and scenes of everyday Venetian life, from festive scenes to bustling traffic on the Grand Canal . 

In 1731, Lord John Russell, the future 4th Duke of Bedford, commissioned Canaletto to create 24 Venetian views following his visit to the city. 

Lord John Russell is known to have paid at least £188 for the set – over five times the annual earnings of a skilled tradesperson at the time.  

“Canaletto’s work was portable and collectible,” says Gazzard. “He adopted a smaller size for his canvases so they could be rolled up and shipped easily.” 

These detailed works, now part of the world famous collection at Woburn Abbey, form the centrepiece of Canaletto’s Venice Revisited at the National Maritime Museum . 

Who was Canaletto?

The legacy of the Grand Tour 

The start of the French Revolution in 1789 marked the end of the Grand Tour. However, its legacy is still keenly felt. 

The desire to explore and learn about different places and cultures through travel continues to endure. The legacy of the Grand Tour can also be seen in the artworks and objects that adorn the walls of stately homes and museums, and the many cultural influences that travellers brought back to Britain. 

Canaletto's Venice Revisited

Main image:  The Piazza San Marco looking towards the Basilica San Marco and the Campanile by Canaletto . From the Woburn Abbey Collection . Canaletto painting in body copy:  Regatta on Grand Canal  by Canaletto  From the Woburn Abbey Collection

Grand Tour of Europe

30 days ,   12 cities   |   Loading prices

4.9 out of 5 stars

Choosing where to go in Europe is tough, so why not see it all? This month-long adventure offers all the culture, art, history, and nightlife you’d get on a semester abroad, but we replaced the classrooms with Mediterranean beaches, the Swiss Alps, and the canals of Amsterdam. Disclaimer for Rome in 2025: Please be aware that due to the Jubilee and associated events taking place in Rome, there may be changes to our scheduled activities. This could include modifications to timings, relocation, or cancellations.

What you'll get

• Round-trip flights & airport transfers (or book 'em yourself)
• 28 nights in handpicked accommodations
• 28 breakfasts
• Expert Tour Director
• 24/7 support from our travel gurus
• 8 insider city tours with a local guide
• Seine River cruise in Paris

Picture yourself

• Gazing at the lights of the Eiffel Tower, sipping champagne
• Biking past windmills in the Dutch countryside
• Yodeling from atop the majestic Swiss Alps
• Witnessing the changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace
• Tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain (tip: right hand over left shoulder)

Day 1: Overnight Flight

Board your overnight flight bound for London. Your adventure begins tomorrow, so sit back, shut your eyes, and do as the English do and try and catch some “zeds.”

Day 2: Arrive in London + Welcome Dinner

Welcome to London. Home of the royal fam, tea, a wonderfully different form of the English language, and the largest city in Western Europe. Brimming with history and unique architecture, you’ll soon understand why it’s one of the most visited cities in the world.

In the evening, enjoy a Welcome Dinner of local cuisine and drinks with fellow travelers at an authentic local spot. Afterwards, you’re free to take the party elsewhere!

• Land at the airport and meet a waiting EF representative.
• Transfer to your hotel to check in and check out your room.
• Get familiar with the area around your hotel with an introductory walk with your Tour Director including the River Thames, Trafalgar & Leicester Squares, and Convent Garden.

Chat with a Trip Expert!

1-800-766-2645 Monday–Thursday 9am–7pm ET Friday 9am–5:30pm ET

Traveler photos

Overall rating based on 171 traveler reviews

Showing 1 - 6 of 171 traveler reviews

5 out of 5 stars

1st-time traveler Ceonnie, traveled in Sep 2024

Our tour director was Alex and she was just amazing! Great attitude and just overall a super nice and funny person! Not gonna brag but we had the BEST group ever!! Everyone got along really well for a group of 20 lol. By the end of this trip we were all like family and I’m so... Read more of The best month ever

1st-time traveler Luis, traveled in Sep 2024

Our tour director was Alex & she was amazing!! She made our trip so much better. She made sure everything went smooth, her communication is amazing & her optionals were also amazing. The group dynamic was above expectations and I wish I could go on the same tour with the same... Read more of Grand Tour Of Europe

Traveler Lauren, traveled in Jun 2024

Manu was insanely amazing. Going above and beyond our expectations of him. Always sticking for us individually and as a group. Couldn’t imagine the trip with any other tour director.

Traveler Barbara, traveled in Jun 2024

Absolutely yes! Would recommend this tour, I had an absolute ball. I feel so lucky with the group we got. Everyone got along considering the number of different personalities (ages 18-33). I personally wouldn't go back to Italy, but it was beautiful. Switzerland was... Read more of I had the best time!

Traveler Matthew, traveled in Jun 2024

Was very nervous about a trip this length but I had a great tour guide, a great group, and a fabulous time every step of the way!

Traveler Gabriella, traveled in Jun 2024

This was honestly such an amazing trip. It was incredibly organized, but most of all it was so much fun! From high tea in London to swimming in the Mediterranean sea to experiencing Spain win the Euros while in Madrid… these are memories that I will cherish forever. Our tour... Read more of Book the trip :)

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The Grand Tour

Englishmen abroad.

At its height, from around 1660–1820, the Grand Tour was considered to be the best way to complete a gentleman’s education. After leaving school or university, young noblemen from northern Europe left for France to start the tour.

After acquiring a coach in Calais, they would ride on to Paris – their first major stop. From there they would head south to Italy or Spain, carting all their possessions and servants with them.

Their most popular destinations were the great towns and cities of the Renaissance, along with the remains of ancient Roman and Greek civilisation.

Their souvenirs were rather more durable than holiday snaps, replica Eiffel Towers or t-shirts – they filled crates with paintings, sculptures and fine clothes.

Travel was somewhat more of an ordeal than today (even accounting for the worst airport queues and hold-ups). However rich these young men were, there was no hot shower after a day on the road, no credit card to get them out of a tight spot, and no mobile phone to ring people for help.

Furthermore transport was slow. Instead of taking a 12-month trip, some went away for many years. Most went for at least two, spending months in essential spots along the way.

The plan was to set young noblemen up to manage their estates, furnish their houses and prepare for conversation in polite society. But did the Grand Tour turn them into gentlemen? Sometimes a taste for vice got in the way.

Next:  A moral education  

Grand Tour of Great Britain: Scotland, England & Wales

15 days   |   17 days with London extension

4.6 out of 5 stars

Immerse yourself in the majesty of Great Britain.

Discover what makes Great Britain truly great as you explore this delightful island from top to bottom. Start in Edinburgh, the Georgian Scottish capital, before heading south to Wales, passing through lovely English countryside and historic cities like York and Liverpool along the way. Then it’s off to the Roman town of Bath and royal London—the perfect finishing touch on this quintessentially British experience.

Your tour package includes

• 13 nights in handpicked hotels
• 13 breakfasts
• 5 dinners with beer or wine
• 11 sightseeing tours
• Expert Tour Director & local guides
• Private deluxe motor coach

Included highlights

• Edinburgh Castle
• Alnwick Castle
• Durham Cathedral
• York Minster
• Shakespeare family home
• Cardiff Castle
• Trafalgar Square

Overnight Flight 1 night

Day 1: travel day.

Board your overnight flight to Edinburgh today.

Edinburgh 3 nights

Day 2: arrival in edinburgh.

Included meal : Welcome dinner

Welcome to Scotland! Meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers at tonight’s welcome dinner.

Start planning today

Our travel experts are here to help.

We handpick every hotel to strike the balance of comfort, location, and local charm. Specific accommodations will vary based on your departure date, but these are frequently used hotels for this tour and we're confident you'll be satisfied.

Mercure Edinburgh Haymarket

This modern hotel is located in Edinburgh’s West End. Guests enjoy the fitness center, a bar, and stylish rooms. Nearby, you’ll find Edinburgh Castle, the National Museum of Scotland, and the Royal Mile.

Maldron Hotel Newcastle

This conveniently located hotel is in the heart of Newcastle. Guests enjoy the private courtyard, restaurant, and fitness center. Nearby you'll find the Theatre Royal, Newcastle Castle, and several restaurants and bars.

Holiday Inn York City Centre

This contemporary hotel is located in downtown York. Guests enjoy a restaurant, cocktail bar, and lounge. Nearby you’ll find the York Castle Museum, York Shambles, and Clifford's Tower.

Hotel Novotel Liverpool Centre

This modern hotel is located in the Ropewalks neighborhood. Guests enjoy a bar, restaurant, and pool. Nearby you’ll find St Johns Beacon, Liverpool Cathedral, and the Royal Albert Dock.

Clayton Hotel Cardiff

This contemporary hotel is located in the heard of Cardiff. Guests enjoy spacious rooms, the fitness center, and restaurant. Nearby you'll Find Cardiff Castle, the Museum of Cardiff, and many restaurants.

Henrietta House

This Georgian townhouse is located in the center of Bath. Guests enjoy house-baked bread and croissants, individually styled rooms, and a trendy on-site bar. Nearby, you’ll find the Roman Baths, The Jane Austen Centre, and the...

Crowne Plaza London – King’s Cross

This upscale hotel is located in London, steps away from the St Pancras railway station. Guests enjoy on-site restaurants, the leisure club, and a fitness center. Nearby, you’ll find King’s Cross Theatre, Trafalgar Square, and...

Round-trip flights are one more thing we handle to make your journey as smooth as possible. Our team of travel experts will find the best flight itinerary for you at a competitive rate, thanks to our partnerships with top airlines.

Add our airfare and you’ll get:

• Round-trip flight for your tour
• Airport transfers at your destination
• A great price locked in today
• 24/7 support from our dedicated service team
• Options for arriving early, staying longer, or requesting an upgrade
• Flexible rebooking options if your tour itinerary changes

Find out more about flights

• In order to enter the United Kingdom, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of reentry.
• We recommend having at least one blank passport page for entry stamps.
• Beginning January 8, 2025, U.S. and Canadian passport holders must purchase an individual visa from the United Kingdom's government’s Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) website or the UK ETA mobile app ( Apple or Android ) in order to enter the United Kingdom.
• If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact your destination country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
• You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code GTB.
• You will walk for at least 1.5 hours daily across mostly flat terrain, including paved roads and cobblestone streets, with some hills and stairs.
• Travelers should be healthy enough to participate in all included walks without assistance. Adding optional excursions may increase the total amount of walking on your tour.
• You should feel comfortable managing your own baggage at times.
• Go Ahead Tours and the Tour Director who accompanies your group are unable to provide special, individual mobility assistance to travelers on tour. The responsibility of the Tour Director is to ensure the group as a whole enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing, individualized assistance to any one traveler.
• If you have any mobility concerns or physical restrictions, please contact our Customer Experience Team.
• Round-trip flights booked through Go Ahead Tours arrive in Edinburgh and depart from London. A representative from Go Ahead Tours will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel. Please remain in the arrival lounge, as the representative might be escorting one of your fellow travelers to the bus at the time of your arrival.
• Transfers to and from the airport at the beginning and end of the tour are included for travelers who purchased their flights through Go Ahead Tours. Travelers who booked their own flights are responsible for securing their own airport transfers.
• All other included transportation is by private motor coach.
• Please note that our travelers are limited to one checked bag and one carry-on bag per person due to storage limitations on motor coaches and other transfers, which may include train connections or flights.
• Contact your airline(s) for baggage size and weight restrictions for your flights, which may include on-tour flights in addition to your round-trip flights to and from tour. Please note that your included on-tour flights may have more restrictive baggage limits.
• Some airlines may impose additional charges if you choose to check any baggage or exceed baggage size and weight restrictions. Be advised that you are responsible for any baggage fees incurred on all flights.
• Make sure you label your baggage and keep valuables, medication, and documents in your carry-on bag.
• We recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered to accommodate varying temperatures, as well as a light jacket or rainwear.
• A sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers is recommended for sightseeing.
• You may want to pack dressier attire if you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance.
• It is preferable not to visit churches or other religious sites with bare legs and shoulders (and entrance may be denied on this basis).
• At least 60 days prior to departure, check with your doctor or healthcare provider for the latest updates and entry requirements, or visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website at cdc.gov .
• If you have medication that you take daily, be sure you have enough for each day of the tour as well as any possible delays encountered.
• If you have dietary restrictions and/or food allergies please notify Go Ahead Tours at least 30 days prior to departure by logging in to goaheadtours.com and updating your traveler info. To update this information closer to your departure date, please call our Customer Experience Team.
• Scottish cuisine relies on readily available ingredients like game, dairy, and fish, with little use of exotic spices. Pickled kippers and smoked salmon are popular, as well as hearty dishes like Scotch broth (stew of meat and root vegetables) and haggis (a savory pudding of sheep innards). Scotch whisky is a legendary local spirit, and Scottish ales are world-famous.
• For traditional English fare at a reasonable price, try a pub meal of fish and chips or bangers and mash. Stilton cheese, steak and kidney pie, and Cumberland sausages are also worth a try.
• Modern-day London boasts an array of diverse international restaurants. Popular options for the adventurous palate include Indian, Thai, Chinese, Indonesian, Greek, and West African cuisine.Sip afternoon tea with delicious finger sandwiches and scones at Harrods for the ultimate in English tradition.
• The small country of Wales has a reputation for interesting local cuisine. Most visitors will love Welsh cakes, which resemble a mix between a cookie and a pancake, and bara brith , a sweet, dense bread. Welsh rarebit, a savory cheese sauce, is popular on bread as well as served as a dip. Seafood fans will love the ubiquity of fresh cockles (small saltwater clams) and the more adventurous should try laverbread , seaweed that’s been boiled and fried and is often served with buttered toast.
• The United Kingdom operates within 230-240 volts and uses a Type G plug with three large, flat pins.
• We recommend packing a universal adapter, as well as a voltage converter if you plan on using your own hairdryer or other electrical device without a built-in converter.
• The strength of the air conditioning in European hotels is often not as strong or as cool as what you might be used to in the U.S. or Canada. When air conditioning is available, it is usually regulated seasonally and controlled centrally by the hotel.
• Hotels may provide hairdryers, irons and other small appliances, but these amenities cannot be guaranteed.
• Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, though charges may apply.
• There is no internet access on the motor coach.
• Please contact your mobile service provider for information on roaming charges.
• The United Kingdom is on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), which is five hours ahead of Eastern Time (ET).
• When it’s noon in New York, it’s 5pm on tour.
• You will use the Pound sterling on tour.
• Better rates of exchange are usually available overseas, although it’s worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive.
• We strongly advise that you take debit/bank cards and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed.
• You can use most debit/credit cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees.
• Inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans so that they won’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.
• International banks and businesses primarily accept debit and credit cards that work with the EMV chip system. If you do not already have at least one debit or credit card with a chip in it, we strongly recommend requesting one from your bank prior to your tour.
• At the conclusion of your tour, it’s customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity in local currency. Please keep current exchange rates in mind.
• We recommend tipping the equivalent of $10USD to $12USD per person per day for your Tour Director and the equivalent of $3USD per person per day for your driver.
• If applicable, we also recommend the equivalent of $2USD per local guide.
• Tips can only be paid in cash.
• Most optional excursions will be available for purchase while you are on tour.
• Your Tour Director will only accept cash (in USD only), Visa, or MasterCard as payment for excursions.
• Please be advised that if you pay for an excursion by credit card while on tour, it may take up to three months for your card to be charged.
• Some optional excursions may only be purchased in advance. See page four of your tour itinerary for more information.

Overall rating based on 69 traveler reviews

Showing 1 - 6 of 69 traveler reviews

5 out of 5 stars

2nd-time traveler Anonymous, traveled in Sep 2024

We had a great time on the EF TOUR OF GB due mainly to excellent tour leader, bus driver and good companions. Well organized and interesting sites

2nd-time traveler Larry, traveled in Sep 2024

We had the most wonderful trip. We absolutely loved all the places we stayed, all the places we visited and enjoyed our tour mates very much. We had so much fun with everyone. A small group like ours is much preferred over a larger one. Two of our extentions were cancelled,... Read more of England, Scotland, Wales

Go Ahead Tours

Thank you for sharing your feedback on your recent trip! We're delighted to hear that you had such a wonderful time, enjoying the places... Read more of the response to England, Scotland, Wales

1st-time traveler Anonymous, traveled in Sep 2024

2nd-time traveler Regina, traveled in Jul 2024

This is my second tour with GoAhead & it didn't disappoint. Seeing history and learning little details was amazing. I'm ready to go back. Kurt was a FANTASTIC Tour Director. He was very knowledgeable about the cities on this tour. He showed us the little hidden gems in... Read more of Fantastic Trip

4th-time traveler Sandra, traveled in Jul 2024

I really enjoyed this tour. The food was good, the places we visited fantastic and our traveling companions were wonderful. The hotels were nice but I really liked a couple of them - Lansdown Grove and Nhow London. I wasn’t fond of staying at so many hotels this trip. It was... Read more of Sandra’s Tour

4th-time traveler Edward G., traveled in Jun 2024

The tour was an incredible introduction to the history, culture, and architecture of Great Britain. David was personable, professional, and very accommodating. He is a fountain of knowledge and has a great sense of humor I highly recommend him for future tours. Restaurants and... Read more of Fantastic Tour

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Grand London Bike Tour

Do you want to see all of London’s ‘must-see’ sights and attractions?

Would you like to hear quirky tales about London’s amazing and sometimes bizarre history? How about visiting off the beaten track places that Tour Buses can’t take you? Then this is the tour for you.

The GRAND LONDON TOUR is designed to show you London in all of its glory – great monuments as well as hidden nooks and crannies – and to give a taste of a Londoner’s London.

There are so many other wonderfully eccentric characters, peculiar traditions and eyebrow-raising monuments to discover on our carefully selected route, that the GRAND LONDON TOUR really is a must-do for anyone who wishes to unravel London’s most bizarre past and present.

Everything you need to know

£37.50 adults, £29.50 ages 8-17 and £33.50 for students with ID. If you have children under the age of 8, please consider our private family bike tour .

Daily at 10.30 am , 3½ hours including a 20 minute break at Covent Garden.  No tours in January. PLEASE ARRIVE 15 MINUTES PRIOR TO START TIME

London’s most comfortable bicycle , helmet and rain poncho in the case of rain

Group size:

Maximum of 12 persons

Meeting point:

We meet at the  entrance to the Train Platform Numbers 1&2 inside Waterloo train station .  Waterloo Station is situated ABOVE the underground station.

Difficulty:

Reservations:.

Reservations are required. To check for late availability call us on 07824 353274.  Dial +44 7824 353274 outside the UK

Cancellations:

Free up to 24 hours before tour – 100% full refund. Flexible rescheduling policy.

What Our Guests Are Saying

The WORLD’S most luxurious sightseeing bus

Ultimate luxury.

LE GRAND offers an unparalleled blend of comfort, style and sophistication. Whether you’re exploring the city for the first time or rediscovering its charms, LE GRAND offers a truly elevated experience

From the stunning red exterior to the plush, spacious interiors, every detail has been meticulously crafted to ensure your journey is nothing short of spectacular

LE GRAND coach is perfect for families, friends, romantic getaways or private hire. LE GRAND turns sightseeing into a luxurious adventure, with seating options to suit every need, from cosy sofas to spacious group areas

Whether gourmet bites or an afternoon tea menu, champagne, wine or whisky, LE GRAND has it all to complement the breathtaking views of London

LE GRAND redefines the expectations of a city tour with an unparalleled level of elegance and personalised service

Discover the Magic of London’s Christmas Lights

This holiday season, experience London in all its festive glory aboard LE GRAND. Join us for a special London Christmas Lights Tour, where the magic of the city’s iconic decorations and the luxurious atmosphere of the bus come together for an unforgettable experience

Perfect for families, friends, or a romantic holiday outing

Enjoy gourmet treats and seasonal drinks as you marvel at London’s twinkling lights

Tours start in December. Daily at 4.30 pm and 7 pm!

UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE

Luxurious Salon with Panoramic Windows

Afternoon Tea Menu Available

Gourmet a la Carte Menu

Champagne and Caviar Offerings

Extensive Wine and Spirits List

Premium On-Board Service

UNIQUE LAYOUT

LE GRAND offers several types of luxurious seating: individual armchairs, sofas for two, seating area for a group of four, U-shaped sofa for four, executive duo seating on the lower deck and a comfortable place for a wheelchair

The total capacity is 32 passengers

CAREFULLY DESIGNED TOURS

We offer two tours: Best of London and City (Tower) of London. Each tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes and both start and end near the Ritz Hotel

Best of London

City (Tower) of London

TOUR PRICes

LE GRAND offers luxury tour tickets that do not include amenities. During booking, you can choose to add a gourmet starter or dessert, along with either a soft drink or an alcoholic beverage, available by the glass or bottle, for an additional cost. Tour ticket prices range from £45 to £60, depending on the day of the tour

GOURMET MENU

Our Gourmet menu includes Viennoiserie and a variety of patisserie from Robuchon Deli – one of London’s finest bakeries. We offer a wide range of beverages including teas, coffees, champagne, prosecco, wines, whisky, etc. All gourmet bites and drinks are at additional cost. Our full menu can be found here:

AFTERNOON TEA Package

LE GRAND also offers packages that include the tour price and your choice of afternoon tea menu: the Traditional Afternoon Tea Menu Package (£98) or the LE GRAND Special Afternoon Tea Menu Package (£180)

There’s no need to buy a separate tour ticket if you’ve chosen a package

TRADITIONAL AFTERNOON TEA PACKAGE

Glass of Prosecco

Canapes by Robuchon (set of 5 pieces)

Mini quiche lorraine.

Allergens: gluten, wheat, dairy, egg

Black canapé with salmon, philadelphia and dill

Allergens: gluten, wheat, rye, dairy, fish, egg

Canapé with roastbeef, horseradish, salad and seeds

Allergens: gluten, wheat, dairy, mustard, sesame seeds, sulphur, egg

Mini choux with egg, mustard, truffle and mayo

Allergens: gluten, wheat, dairy, mustard, sulphur, egg

Canapé with Stilton cheese and Fig

Allergens: gluten, wheat, dairy, fish, egg

Mini patisserie by Robuchon (set of 5 pieces)

Hazelnut praliné.

Allergens: gluten, wheat, dairy, fish, nuts, egg, soya

Allergens: gluten, wheat, dairy, nuts, egg

Hazelnut Chou

Pistacia tart.

Tea or Coffee

LE GRAND SPECIAL AFTERNOON TEA PACKAGE

Half Bottle of Ruinart Blanc de Blanc Champagne

Azure Black Caviar(50 g)

Special Blue Tea by Robuchon

The Greatest Bus Tour

Amazing time around the city on a double date, amazing experience.

Discover London with LE GRAND luxury sightseeing bus tours. We provide a unique and elegant way to explore most iconic landmarks and hidden gems of London. Hop on our luxury bus and immerse yourself in the beauty and history of this city. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned resident, our tours give you a new perspective on this vibrant metropolis.

What LE GRAND Offers?

Panoramic Bus Tours: Enjoy breath-taking panoramic views of London’s skyline and famous landmarks from the comfort of our luxury panoramic buses.

Private Hire: Make your special occasion unforgettable with our private rental services. Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries and corporate events.

Afternoon Tea Bus Experiences: Sip on the essential British afternoon tea as you tour the city’s sights. It’s an interesting blend of opulence and tradition.

Our dedicated staff ensures that your trip is comfortable and memorable. From the moment you step aboard, you’ll be treated to top-notch service, delicious food and a fascinating introduction to London’s rich history and culture.

Book your LE GRAND experience today

Join us for an unforgettable tour of London. Book your tickets now and discover the city in the most beautiful way at Le Grand.

• Our Heritage
• Tour Introduction
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The Grand London Tour

• Express London
• Royal Windsor & London
• Royal London
• London by Night
• Beatles London
• Harry Potter London
• Royal Greenwich London
• Sir Winston Churchill London
• World War II London
• Jack The Ripper London
• Haunted London
• Shopping London
• Historic Pubs London
• James Bond London
• Walking London
• River Boat London
• Double Decker London
• Other London Tours
• Day Tours From London
• Royal Windsor & Hampton Court Palace
• Oxford & Blenheim Palace
• Stonehenge & Royal Windsor
• Royal Windsor, Stonehenge & Bath
• Downton Abbey Country, Oxford & Blenheim Palace
• The Cotswolds
• The White Cliffs & Canterbury
• Stratford & Warwick Castle
• Oxford & Cambridge
• Cambridge & Ely Cathedral
• Chatsworth House & Hardwick Hall
• Maritime Portsmouth
• The Battle of Britain
• The Thames Valley & Cliveden House
• The Chiltern Hills & Waddesdon Manor
• Other Day Tours
• Downton Abbey Tours
• Downton Abbey Classic
• Downton Abbey Country
• Downton Abbey London
• Scotland & Ireland Tours
• Great British & Irish Tours
• Scottish Tours
• Irish Tours
• Paris & France Tours
• Paris Tours
• Paris, Le Grand Tour
• Paris by night
• The Champagne Region
• Corporate Events
• Corporate Coach Charter
• Corporate Boat Charter
• Guides & Chauffeurs
• Special Occasions
• Private Boat Charter
• Private Coach Charter
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Grand Tour of London

London full day tour.

£725.00 up to 8 Hours 09:30hrs to 17:30hrs Listed price is for the tour and not per person. Our vehicle can accommodate 6 adult passengers comfortably. Entrances not included

London Full Day Tour aka The Grand tour of London is by far the most popular tour that we offer. It includes a full day panoramic tour of the city and a guided visit of Westminster Abbey and the Tower of London (Crown Jewels) *

During our panoramic tour, we will also see Buckingham Palace , Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square, Parliament Square, The London Eye, St Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge and much more in between…photo stops are part of our tour too.

As this tour includes guided visits to two major sites, we must take into account time constraints. If you wish to have a more flexible day without any site visits or different sites please book the London Full Day Tour instead which is fully customisable.

*entrances to Westminster Abbey and The Tower of London not included but may be purchased during the booking process. 

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The Peninsula Academy

This experience takes guests on a captivating journey through 2,000 years of London history, while accompanied by an expert guide and transported by one of The Peninsula London’s custom Rolls Royces. Driving and walking amongst the city's most storied landmarks, guests will learn about the history, secrets, and scandals behind them – from regal happenings at Buckingham Palace and failed plots at the House of Parliament to the haunting legacy of the Great Fire of 1666 and the Tower of London's dark past. The tour will conclude with a signature Peninsula Afternoon Tea in The Lobby. 

Additional Details:

• This exclusive Peninsula Academy may only be booked by hotel guests
• Requires 48 hours' advance notice
• Limited to three guests
• Limited to three guests per car
• Available in different languages (subject to guide availability)

GBP £1547 for a group of four guests

Optional £172.80 language guide supplement

+44 20 3959 2888

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"I love surprising our guests with London's incredible diversity. You can go from admiring the dazzling architecture and shopping at the trendy boutiques, to watching grand royal ceremonies and meeting the locals in a 16th-century pub - all in one day."

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Admire the Big Ben and the imposing Houses of Parliament

As you touch down in London, you’ll surely be searching the skyline for Big Ben, the iconic Clock Tower at the Palace of Westminster, or the Houses of Parliament. You'll have the chance to admire these impressive buildings in the company of your London travel guide and listen for the famous chimes that have been ringing out across London since 1859.

Learn about the history of the Buckingham Palace

You’re in for a royal time at Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the British royal family since 1837. It’s one of the most iconic places to visit in London, and we’ll take you to marvel at this magnificent palace, learn about it’s centuries-old history, and perhaps even wave to the King if he’s home.

Ramble through London's picturesque Royal Parks

If you love a lush park or garden, you’re in for a real treat in London, with over 5,000 acres of gorgeous green space across the eight Royal Parks. Spend your days strolling, cycling, or simply relaxing in these beautiful parks, from the famous Hyde Park to the ornate Kensington Gardens.

Go on a shopping spree around Carnaby Street and Soho

We’ll dive into London’s West End with a tour around the buzzing borough of Soho, where you’ll get a taste of London’s diverse culture, history and cuisine. Wander down the iconic Oxford and Regent Streets and of course, Carnaby Street, the city’s shopping mecca, and the epicentre of the Swinging Sixties in London.

See the stately Changing of the Guard

You’ll watch history come alive when we take you to Buckingham Palace to witness the spectacular Changing of the Guard ceremony. It’s a full-on display of royal pomp and military tradition, with the soldiers of The Queen’s Guard in bearskin hats and bright-red uniforms marching down the Mall, and you can’t miss it on your London trip.

Our top 5 things to do in London

With an overwhelming number of iconic London attractions to explore, where to begin? When you travel London with Trafalgar, we’ll show you all the very best of the city.

Tate Modern

As one of the world’s largest museums of modern and contemporary art, the Tate Modern is an unmissable London attraction. You’ll find everything here from vibrant artworks to films and performance art, and you can’t miss the giant Turbine Hall, a five-storey tall room used to display extraordinarily large art installations.

Museum of London

If you’ve ever wanted to learn the history of this great city, the Museum of London is the place to go. It’s the world’s largest urban history collection and you’ll learn all about England’s capital from prehistoric to modern times. The museum even overlooks the remains of the Roman city wall on the edge of the oldest area of London.

Science Museum

You could spend hours exploring the treasures of the Science Museum including the world’s greatest innovations, ranging from Puffing Billy, the oldest surviving steam locomotive, to the first jet engine, to the Apollo 10 command module. You’ll travel from the Industrial Revolution all the way into the future in this amazing playground of the mind.

Best museums in London

London’s museums are among the world’s best, with millions of visitors each year to marvel at the incredible history, art and design. What treasures will you find when we take you to these great institutions?

Cottage Pie

It doesn’t get more comforting than a traditional cottage pie, and you’ve got to order this English staple at least once in a classic London pub. It’s been a beloved dish for generations, originating as a clever way to make a hearty meal from leftovers like beef, peas and carrots, topped with creamy mashed potatoes.

Cornish Pasty

Make a beeline for the nearest bakery in London and discover these little pockets of deliciousness. They’re made from shortcrust pastry stuffed with beef, potatoes, swede, onion and egg, then baked until golden, forming a rich gravy inside its own tasty casing. You’re sure to go back for more than just one Cornish pasty!

Named after the prestigious boys’ boarding school of the same name, this simple yet delicious treat is made from a refreshing blend of cream, strawberries and crushed meringue. It’s a classic British dessert and you can even try it at The National Café at the National Gallery, one of the best art museums in London.

Best food in London

Our London tours are big on foodie experiences, and you can go from a traditional English afternoon tea, to a delicious culinary adventure through Chinatown in the West End.

What to pack for London

Waterproof coat

London is known for its drizzles and rain showers, so pack a waterproof coat or travel-sized umbrella to keep your dry and warm on your London trip.

Comfortable shoes

This city was made for walking, and with so many incredible monuments, museums, parks and markets to explore, you’ll need a sturdy pair of shoes to get you around London.

Camera & extra SD cards

From Big Ben to the London Eye, your camera is sure to get a good workout. Pack some extra SD cards so you never run out of space to capture all of London’s pinch-me moments.

Waterproof day bag

Keep your hands free on your London tours with a waterproof day pack, perfect for holding all your shopping and souvenirs and keeping them dry in wet weather.

Warm layers

London is known for experiencing four seasons in one day, so it’s best to wear layers that will keep you warm in the cold weather and cool when the sun comes out.

Our Europe & Britain destinations

Bosnia Herzegovina

Czech Republic

Liechtenstein

North Macedonia

Netherlands

Northern Ireland

Switzerland

Other worldwide regions we visit

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Australia and New Zealand

North and Central America

South America

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