London Tourist Passes Comparison : Which London Sightseeing Pass is the best ?

---

Planning a trip to London? Choosing the best London pass can streamline your trip planning and help you save money! London tourist passes offer a convenient way to access must-see attractions like the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and the London Eye, all while keeping your budget under control.

With 6 main London city passes to choose from, deciding which one is right for you can feel overwhelming. Which pass offers the best value? Which one fits your travel style and the duration of your stay?

For years, the London Pass has been a popular choice. However, with the introduction of new options like the London Explorer Pass and the London City Card, it’s now more important than ever to compare your choices.

Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! This guide breaks down the top London attraction passes, highlighting their key features, pros, and cons, so you can make an informed choice. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a longer stay, you’ll find the best London sightseeing pass for your trip.

The 6 best London Passes for 2025

• ✅ London Pass (more info here >>) – My top recommendation
• Go City London Explorer Pass (more info here >>)
• London City Card (Digital Pass) (more info here >>)
• London Sightseeing Pass (more info here >>)
• London City Pass by Turbopass (more info here >>)
• Merlin Magical Pass 5-in-1 (more info here >>)

Each of these London tourist passes offers fast access to London’s top attractions, though they vary in features and benefits. Every pass caters to different types of travelers.

So, which is the best pass for London attractions? 

This guide has everything you need to choose the perfect London city pass and find the best places to purchase it for your trip.

London Pass: The most popular choice

The London Pass is one of the most popular London passes for exploring the city.

Ideal for maximizing your sightseeing, it provides direct, skip-the-line access to over 95 iconic landmarks and attractions, including historic monuments, top museums, and immersive experiences.

The pass also includes a one-day Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour and a Thames River cruise, making it easy to get around while enjoying unique views of the city.

The London Pass is perfect for first-time visitors, families, or those looking to optimize their time and budget. It’s especially suited for an action-packed trip filled with cultural and tourist discoveries.

How does the London Pass work?

You can purchase the London Pass online (check the latest price here).

Once you’ve bought it, the London Pass is delivered digitally via email, serving as your entry pass to various attractions. You can either print it or download it to the mobile app for easy access on your smartphone.

To use it, simply show the QR code at the entrance of included attractions. The pass activates on your first visit and remains valid for the number of consecutive days you’ve chosen (from 1 to 10 days).

Important – The pass records the location and time of your first use. For example, if you activate it at 6 PM on a Friday, that day counts as your first day!

A detailed digital guide is included with the London Pass, offering instructions for each attraction.

Top attractions included in the London Pass

With the London Pass, you can explore many of London’s must-see tourist attractions. Here are some highlights (check the full list here):

• Westminster Abbey
• Tower of London
• The View from The Shard
• Kensington Palace
• Thames River Cruise
• St. Paul’s Cathedral
• London Zoo
• Windsor Castle
• and 88 more

London Pass price and validity

The price of the London Pass varies based on the number of days you select, with longer durations offering better daily value.

Prices start at £114 for a 1-day pass and go up to £289 for a 10-day pass.

Take a look at the table below to compare your options and find the perfect fit for your trip.

Want to dive deeper? Check out my detailed review of the London Pass to learn more about this popular London sightseeing card.

Go City London Explorer Pass: Tailor your London adventure

The Go City London Explorer Pass is the ultimate choice for travelers seeking flexibility while exploring the city with a tourist pass.

Unlike the all-inclusive London Pass, the Explorer Pass lets you handpick the number of attractions you want to visit (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7) from a curated list of over 105 top-rated sites and experiences.

This pass is perfect if you want to enjoy your trip at a relaxed pace without the pressure of squeezing in too many visits in a short period.

One of its key advantages is its 60-day validity from the first use, making it ideal for longer stays or for visitors who prefer to spread out their sightseeing over multiple days. Plus, it’s 100% digital, offering hassle-free access and an eco-friendly option for modern travelers.

The London Explorer Pass is perfect for budget-savvy travelers who want to focus on the attractions that matter most. If you already have a clear itinerary in mind, this pass ensures you only pay for what you plan to experience.

It’s also a fantastic choice for families or repeat visitors to London who are looking for fresh adventures without the time constraints of a traditional all-inclusive pass.

How does the Go City London Explorer Pass work?

Purchasing the Explorer Pass tourist card is simple. Visit the Go City website (check the latest price here), and once you’ve completed your purchase, you’ll receive the pass via email.

You can then download it to your smartphone through the Go City app or print it out for added convenience.

At checkout, choose the number of attractions you’d like to visit (from 2 to 7). Once in London, present the QR code at your selected attractions to gain instant access.

A key advantage of the Explorer Pass is its flexibility. You don’t need to rush—all your visits can be spread across 60 days from the date of activation.

To make planning easier, the city pass also includes a digital guide packed with helpful tips and information about each attraction.

Top attractions Included in the Explorer Pass

The Go City London Explorer Pass opens the door to a wide range of tourist attractions and experiences. Here are just a few highlights (check the full list here):

• London Eye
• Tower of London
• Westminster Abbey
• The View from The Shard
• St. Paul’s Cathedral
• Thames River Cruise
• Madame Tussauds
• Kensington Palace
• Tower Bridge
• Kew Gardens
• Wembley Stadium Tour
• Arsenal Stadium Tour
• and 93 more

Pricing for the Go City London Explorer Pass

The cost of the Explorer Pass depends on the number of attractions you select. The more attractions you choose, the lower the cost per visit.

Prices start at £74 for 2 attractions and go up to £204 for 7 attractions.

Check the table below to compare the different options and choose the one that best fits your itinerary.

For more details, check out my full review of the Go City London Explorer Pass.

London City Card (London Digital Pass): Ideal for Short Stays

The London City Card, also known as the London Digital Pass, is a simple, affordable tourist pass to explore the city’s highlights.

Unlike other London city passes, this card focuses on a curated selection of key attractions, offering a streamlined and efficient way to experience London’s most iconic sites. 

With fast-track entry to 3 popular attractions and a 10% discount on additional activities, it’s perfect for short trips or travelers with a clear itinerary in mind.

If you’re looking to enjoy the best of London without being overwhelmed by too many choices, this London City Card is an excellent pick.

How does the London City Card work?

Purchasing the London City Card is quick and easy. Simply visit the official Tiqets website (click here for details) to buy the pass online.

Once purchased, you’ll receive your city pass via email. It’s fully digital, so you can download it to your smartphone for seamless access or print it if preferred.

For certain attractions, such as the London Eye or the Tower of London, you’ll need to select a date and time during the booking process. At the venue, show your QR code for fast-track entry, skipping long lines with your entry pass.

In addition to attraction access, the London City Card includes the POPGuide App, an interactive digital guide featuring offline maps, navigation, and an audio guide covering over 150 points of interest across London.

Top attractions included in the London City Card

The London City Card offers fast and hassle-free access to 3 of London’s most iconic tourist attractions, along with extra perks:

• Skip-the-line entry to the London Eye
• Fast-track access to the Tower of London
• 24-hour Hop-On Hop-Off Thames River Cruise
• POPGuide App, providing offline maps and audio commentary for over 150 London landmarks
• 10% discount on additional activities, including Westminster Abbey

Pricing for the London City Card

The London City Card is competitively priced and a great value for experiencing London’s highlights.

• Current Price: £94

Check the table below to compare options and select the pass that best suits your plans.

For an in-depth look at this pass and its benefits, read my detailed review of the London Digital Pass by Tiqets.

London City Pass by Turbopass: A flexible sightseeing solution

The London City Pass by Turbopass is a versatile tourist pass offering access to over 15 iconic attractions in London with a single pass.

This pass lets you explore landmarks such as Kensington Palace, Shrek’s Adventure!, and the Tower of London, and even join guided tours, including the famous Harry Potter filming locations.

In addition, the pass includes a 24-hour Hop-On Hop-Off bus ticket and a 24-hour Thames River Cruise, providing convenient and scenic transportation options. A range of guided tours is also available, from witnessing the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace to themed walks like Harry Potter tours.

How does the London City Pass work?

The Turbopass London City Pass is designed to adapt to your travel plans, whether you’re visiting for a day or spending a week in London.

Its modular design allows you to customize the pass based on the number of days you wish to dedicate to sightseeing.

Once you purchase the pass online (find the best price on the official Turbopass website), you’ll receive all essential details via email. The pass includes a QR code that you can easily access on your smartphone, making it simple to manage everything digitally with your entry pass.

While this pass offers flexibility, its limited number of included activities may make it less cost-effective compared to alternatives like the London Pass, which includes more attractions at a similar or lower price point.

Top attractions included in the London City Pass

The London City Pass by Turbopass provides fast-track access to some of London’s top tourist attractions. Here are a few highlights (see the full list on this page) :

• Fast-track entry to the Tower of London
• Kensington Palace
• Madame Tussauds London
• SEA LIFE Aquarium
• Shrek’s Adventure!
• London Dungeon
• London Zoo
• Hampton Court Palace (fast-track access)
• Up at the O2 (rooftop climb with panoramic city views)
• Walking tour with the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
• and 5 more

London City Pass price and validity

The London City Pass by Turbopass is available for durations ranging from 1 to 7 days, with prices starting at £111 for a 1-day pass and going up to £239 for a 7-day pass (check last prices on this page).

For more details on pricing, check the table below to find the option that best fits your trip.

For a detailed breakdown of this pass, check out my full review of the Turbopass London City Pass.

Merlin Magical Pass 5-in-1: Perfect for families and kids

The Merlin Magical Pass 5-in-1 is an ideal tourist pass for exploring London with family or friends, offering access to some of the city’s most popular and entertaining attractions.

This pass provides access to 5 of London’s most popular and immersive attractions, offering a fun mix of excitement, culture, and unforgettable moments. Whether you’re traveling with kids or simply want a lighter, more entertaining itinerary, this city pass is a fantastic way to combine fun with savings.

One of its standout benefits is the significant savings compared to purchasing individual tickets for each attraction. Plus, as all activities are managed by Merlin Entertainments, you can count on a seamless and hassle-free experience.

The pass is particularly well-suited for families with children, featuring special pricing for young visitors aged 5 to 15. It’s also an excellent option for anyone wanting to enjoy London’s playful side without complicating their plans.

How does the Merlin Magical Pass work?

The Merlin Magical Pass 5-in-1 is easy to purchase and use. Simply order it online (click here for details), and you’ll receive a digital pass via email.

When booking, you’ll need to select the date and time for your first attraction, such as the London Eye or Madame Tussauds. After your first visit, you’ll have 90 days to enjoy the other four attractions, giving you the flexibility to explore London at your own pace.

After visiting your first attraction, you’ll have 90 days to explore the other 4, giving you the freedom to enjoy London at your own pace.

With fast-track entry included, you can skip the queues and make the most of your time at each attraction. No printing is required—just show your digital entry pass at the entrance.

Attractions included in the Merlin Magical Pass 5-in-1

The Merlin Magical Pass grants access to five of London’s most famous tourist attractions, perfect for delighting kids and adults alike:

• Madame Tussauds London
• London Eye
• SEA LIFE Aquarium London
• Shrek’s Adventure!
• London Dungeon

Merlin Magical Pass Price

The price of the Merlin Magical Pass 5-in-1 varies depending on the season and promotions. However, it remains a cost-effective way to explore London’s top attractions.

Check the table below for detailed pricing and choose the option that best suits your trip.

For more information, check out my detailed review of the Merlin Magical sightseeing card 5-in-1.

The London Sightseeing Pass: The most flexible option

The London Sightseeing Pass is a versatile, all-in-one ticket that makes exploring London’s most iconic tourist attractions easy and cost-effective.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, culture lover, or family traveler, this pass lets you discover the city’s must-see landmarks at your own pace. 

It provides access to 42 attractions, including historic sites, world-renowned museums, and immersive experiences like river cruises and guided tours—all without the hassle of purchasing individual tickets.

The London Sightseeing Pass is ideal for travelers who want flexibility and value. It allows you to explore at your own pace while offering savings of up to 50% compared to individual ticket purchases.

How does the London Sightseeing Pass work?

The London Sightseeing Pass is fully digital and easy to use. Once purchased online (click here for details), you’ll receive your pass via email. You can download it to your smartphone or print it out for convenience.

The pass comes in two main formats:

1. The DAY Pass: Enjoy unlimited access to attractions for 1 to 5 consecutive days (see price here).
2. The FLEX Pass: Choose 3 to 7 attractions from a curated list and use the pass within 60 days of activation (check price on this page).

For some attractions, such as the London Eye or Madame Tussauds, you may need to book a time slot in advance. Simply present your QR code at each attraction to gain entry, often skipping the lines for a faster and more enjoyable experience.

Top attractions included in the London Sightseeing Pass

The London Sightseeing Pass covers a variety of iconic attractions and experiences. Here’s a selection of highlights (chek full list on this page):

• London Eye
• Tower of London
• Madame Tussauds
• Westminster Abbey
• St. Paul’s Cathedral
• Thames River Cruise
• Kensington Palace
• Tower Bridge
• London Zoo
• and 33 more

The English Heritage Pass: A must-have for road trips

Pricing depends on the type of pass you choose and the duration or number of attractions included.

Check the table below for detailed London Sightseeing Pass pricing and select the option that best suits your itinerary.

For more details, check out my comprehensive review of the London Sightseeing Pass.

The English Heritage Pass: A must-have for road trips

The English Heritage Pass is a fantastic tourist pass for history lovers and adventurous travelers eager to explore England’s stunning countryside beyond London.

Unlike typical London city passes, this pass focuses on England’s remarkable historic landmarks, making it an ideal choice for a road trip steeped in heritage and culture.

With the English Heritage Pass, you’ll bypass attractions like Madame Tussauds or the London Eye to gain entry to awe-inspiring sites like Eltham Palace and Gardens, a unique royal residence that masterfully blends medieval and Art Deco architecture. You’ll also enjoy access to Stonehenge, Europe’s iconic prehistoric monument located in the tranquil Wiltshire countryside.

How does the English Heritage Pass work?

The English Heritage Pass is designed to fit your travel plans, offering two flexible durations:

1. 9-day pass
2. 16-day pass

Once activated at your first location, the pass remains valid for the selected duration, granting access to over 100 historic sites across England.

You can conveniently purchase the pass online (click here for details) and redeem it at any participating English Heritage site.

What’s included in the English Heritage Pass?

The pass opens the door to some of England’s most extraordinary landmarks. Here are a few highlights (check out full attractions list here) :

• Stonehenge
• Eltham Palace and Gardens
• Dover Castle
• Hadrian’s Wall
• Kenilworth Castle
• Tintagel Castle (linked to the legend of King Arthur)

English Heritage Pass pricing and value

The English Heritage Pass is a cost-effective way to see some of England’s most celebrated historic sites. It offers excellent value compared to purchasing individual tickets at each location.

If your trip is focused solely on London, this pass may not be the best fit. However, if you’re planning to explore England’s countryside and immerse yourself in its storied past, the English Heritage Pass is an outstanding option.

For more details, check out my full review of the English Heritage Pass.

London Tourist Passes comparison table

Choosing the best pass for visiting London doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The right choice depends on your preferences, budget, and how much time you want to dedicate to sightseeing.

Here’s a quick overview of the prices for the top 6 London tourist passes to make your decision easier:

• London Pass (90+ attractions): Starting at £114 (check the latest price here)
• London Explorer Pass (105 attractions): Starting at £74 (check the latest price here)
• London City Card (3 attractions): Starting at £94 (check the latest price here)
• London Sightseeing Pass (42 attractions): Starting at £119 (check the latest price here)
• London City Pass (15 attractions + options): Starting at £111 (check the latest price here)
• Merlin Magical Pass (5 attractions): Starting at £80 (check the latest price here)

For a more detailed breakdown, refer to the comparison table below to find the pass that perfectly matches your itinerary.

Which London Attraction Pass is best for you? : My recommendation

Deciding on the right London tourist pass depends on your travel goals, the length of your stay, and the type of experiences you want to prioritize. Here’s a quick guide to help you make the best choice:

For first-time visitors to London

👉 Choose the London Pass (check availability here)

If it’s your first time in London and you want to explore as many attractions as possible in a short amount of time, the London Pass is your best option.

With access to more than 90 attractions, this pass covers iconic sites like the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and The View from The Shard, all within a flexible duration of 1 to 10 days.

It’s an ideal choice for anyone looking to maximize both their time and budget while ticking off London’s must-see landmarks.

If you know exactly what you want to see

👉 Choose the London Explorer Pass (check availability here)

For a more relaxed pace, the London Explorer Pass is the perfect option.

You can choose between 2 to 7 attractions from a curated list of over 90 top sites and experiences, including the London Eye and Madame Tussauds.

With a 60-day validity, this pass is great for travelers who prefer flexibility and want to focus on specific attractions without feeling rushed.

For Short Stays (1–2 Days)

👉 Choose the London Digital Pass (view the latest promotions here)

If your trip to London is brief, the London Digital Pass offers a straightforward and practical solution.

It includes 3 to 4 attractions, such as the London Eye and a Thames River Cruise, allowing you to enjoy London’s highlights without the hassle of managing too many options.

For maximum flexibility

👉 Choose the London Sightseeing Pass (view the latest promotions here)

The London Sightseeing Pass is a versatile option, available in two formats:

• DAY Pass: Enjoy unlimited access to attractions for 1 to 5 consecutive days.
• FLEX Pass: Choose 3 to 7 attractions and use the pass within 60 days of activation.

This pass is excellent for travelers seeking flexibility and variety, covering highlights like the Tower of London, London Eye, and Thames River Cruise.

However, it includes fewer attractions compared to the London Pass or Explorer Pass, making it less appealing for those looking to visit as many sites as possible.

My Recommendation and final tip

👉 For first-time visitors or those eager to make the most of their time in London, the London Pass (check availability here) is the best choice.

It’s practical, cost-effective, and offers access to a wide range of must-see attractions.

👉 For a more flexible and laid-back approach, the London Explorer Pass (check the latest price here) is an excellent alternative. Don’t forget to use the promo code PASS5 to get a 5% discount!

To get the most out of your London Tourist pass, plan your visits efficiently. Grouping nearby attractions can save you time and help you experience everything the city has to offer without breaking the bank.

With the right pass in hand, you’ll be ready to discover London like never before!