York City Sightseeing, York Travel Guide

4.6 (364)

Discover York’s 2,000 years of history aboard an open-top bus with live guides, hop-on hop-off freedom, and multilingual commentary.

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York City Sightseeing

City Sightseeing York offers a flexible hop-on hop-off open-top bus tour that lets you discover York’s rich heritage spanning 2,000 years. With 21 stops including iconic sites like Clifford’s Tower and Monk Bar, live guides and multilingual audio commentary bring the city’s Roman, Viking, and medieval past to life. Tickets are valid for 24 hours, allowing you to create your own itinerary and enjoy discounts at local attractions.

A brief summary to York City Sightseeing

Exhibition Square, Bootham Tower, York, YO1 7EW, GB
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Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Mid ranged
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring York City Sightseeing.

Purchase your ticket online to benefit from the Rainy Day Guarantee, allowing rescheduling if weather disrupts your tour day.
Use your 24-hour ticket to complete a full loop first, then hop off at key attractions like York Minster and Clifford’s Tower.
Ask your driver for a Transdev Treats voucher to access discounts at local shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Take advantage of the kids’ commentary to keep younger travelers engaged with fun historical stories.
Wear layered clothing and bring a camera to capture panoramic views from the open-top deck throughout the tour.

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Explore York City Sightseeing on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near York City Sightseeing, mapped for you.

Getting There

Bus

City Sightseeing York buses depart every 15 minutes from Exhibition Square between 9:08 AM and 4:38 PM daily. Tickets cost approximately £17 for adults and are valid for 24 hours, allowing flexible hop-on hop-off travel.
Train and Bus

From York Railway Station, take local bus services or a 20-minute taxi ride to Exhibition Square, the main departure point. Bus services run frequently during the day with fares around £2-£4.
Walking

If staying nearby, a 10-15 minute walk through York’s historic center leads to Exhibition Square. The terrain is mostly flat and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.

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Discover more about York City Sightseeing

A Journey Through York’s Timeless Heritage

City Sightseeing York invites you to embark on a captivating tour through one of England’s most historically significant cities. York’s story stretches back over two millennia, from its Roman foundations through Viking invasions to medieval grandeur. This open-top bus tour allows you to experience this rich tapestry firsthand, passing landmarks such as Clifford’s Tower, the only Barbican on a city wall in Britain, and the medieval Monk Bar. The live guides and multilingual audio commentary enrich your journey with tales of monarchs, local legends, and York’s unique architectural heritage.

Flexible Touring with 21 Convenient Stops

The tour features 21 strategically placed stops around the city, including Exhibition Square, The Stonebow, and Fishergate. This flexibility means you can hop off to explore attractions like York Minster, the Jorvik Viking Centre, or the York Castle Museum at your own pace. The ticket’s 24-hour validity encourages a relaxed exploration, allowing you to complete a full loop before delving deeper into the sites that capture your interest. The buses run every 15 minutes from 9:08 AM to 4:38 PM daily, ensuring convenient access throughout the day.

Engaging Commentary for All Ages

Whether you prefer live narration or audio guides, City Sightseeing York caters to all visitors. Commentary is available in seven languages, including English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Mandarin, and Japanese, plus a special kids’ guide called Time Travellers that makes history fun for younger passengers. The guides share fascinating anecdotes, such as spotting the city’s famous cats or stories about Dick Turpin’s grave, adding layers of intrigue to your sightseeing experience.

Accessibility and Comfort on Board

The buses are designed for comfort and accessibility, featuring low floors for wheelchair users and stroller-friendly spaces. Both indoor seating and open-air decks are available, so you can enjoy York’s changing weather in comfort. Even on rainy days, the Rainy Day Guarantee allows you to reschedule your tour within the week if booked online, ensuring your experience is never spoiled by the weather.

Discounts and Local Partnerships

Your City Sightseeing ticket also acts as a key to savings around York. Present your ticket to receive discounts at numerous local attractions and eateries, including 10% off entry to the Jorvik Viking Centre and £3 off York Boats. The Transdev Treats voucher offers additional perks, making your exploration both enriching and economical.

York’s Vibrant Urban Landscape and Cultural Richness

Beyond historical sites, the tour passes through York’s vibrant streets, markets, and university areas, showcasing the city’s lively contemporary culture. From quaint tearooms like Betty’s to bustling shopping streets, the tour offers a panoramic view of York’s blend of past and present. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, family traveler, or casual visitor, City Sightseeing York provides a comprehensive and engaging way to experience this remarkable city.