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  • 17 reviews | 275 travellers
    It was a very positive experience because one of the drivers, Nathaniel, spoke Spanish and was very friendly. He was kind enough to explain everything. He explained many necessary details to us. The downside was a family with their baby, a few months old, who screamed the entire ride. We avoided getting on the bus all day long because the endless screaming for an hour was terrible. I don't understand why they allow babies on this tour.
    10 Arelis Guaramato
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the service starts
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the service starts

The open-top sightseeing bus in York is the perfect way to step back into medieval times and find out why York is the second most-visited city in England. With two floors and an open-top roof, these buses offer the best views along the route.

The open-top sightseeing bus in York is the perfect way to step back into medieval times and find out why York is the second most-visited city in England. With two floors and an open-top roof, these buses offer the best views along the route.

Route and Stops

The York sightseeing bus makes 20 stops at the main attractions of one of the UK's most iconic cities. Throughout the ride, you'll enjoy recorded commentary in English about the sights along the way. The route without stops takes about 1 hour.

Some of the most interesting stops are Clifford's Tower, Gilly Gate, South Bank, and Museum Gardens.

You can check the route and stops on the map at the following link:

How Does It Work?

Your ticket is valid for 24 consecutive hours from the first time you use it. For example, if you first use it on a Monday at 3 pm, it'll be valid until Tuesday at 2:59 pm.

During this time, you can hop on and off the buses as many times as you like. That means you can see the city's main attractions and discover what remains of the great York Castle at the legendary Clifford's Tower. You can also get up close to York Minster, Britain's largest Gothic building, visit the city's famous botanical gardens (Museum Gardens), or explore York's Viking legacy at the Jorvik Viking Centre.

Please Note

Although you'll be asked for a start date when you book, you can use the service during the 12 months following that date.

When you book, we'll email you a booking confirmation that you'll need to hand over on the first bus you take.

Schedule and Frequency

The York sightseeing bus operates on the following schedule:

  • November 1, 2026: 9:30 am to 5 pm from Stop 1. Every 15 to 20 minutes.
  • November 2 to 30, 2026: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 10:45 am to 2:15 pm from Stop 1. Every 30 minutes.
  • December 1, 2, 5, 6, 8, 9, 12, 13, 15, 16, 19, and 20, 2026: 10:45 am to 2:15 pm from Stop 1. Every 30 minutes.
  • January 2027: Saturdays from 10:45 am to 2:15 pm from Stop 1. Every 30 minutes.
  • February 2027: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 10:45 am to 2:15 pm from Stop 1. Every 30 minutes.
  • March 1 to 19, 2027: Daily from 10:45 am to 2:15 pm from Stop 1. Every 30 minutes.
  • March 20 to 31, 2027: 9:30 am to 5 pm from Stop 1. Every 15 to 20 minutes.
View complete description

More Information

Duration

1 day.

Language

The activity takes place with recorded commentary in English. The activity takes place with recorded commentary in English.

Included

Unlimited use of the York City Sightseeing bus during a period of 24 hours.

Individual headphones.

When to book?

You can book up to the tour start time subject to availability. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Type of voucher

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible. This must be indicated in the reservation.

Sustainability conditions

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code.

Sustainability Code

Our providers commit to:

  • Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
  • Reduce, reuse, recycle.
  • Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
  • Uphold fair employment standards.
  • Foster the growth of local communities.
  • Preserve the integrity of local culture.
  • Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
  • Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
  • Operate with honesty and transparency.
  • Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

  • No printing of documentation required.

Pets

Not permitted.

Frequently asked questions

  • Q - What is the ETA?

    A - The ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is a mandatory electronic travel permit for certain nationalities visiting the UK for tourism, business, or transit. It’s applied for online, costs £16, and is linked to your passport.

  • Q - Who needs an ETA?

    A - Everyone needs an ETA to travel to the UK, except British and Irish citizens and those who already require a visa to enter the country.

  • Q - How do I apply for the ETA?

    A - You apply online through the official UK Government website or app. You’ll need a valid passport, a recent photo, your travel details, and a payment card. Approval can arrive within minutes, though it may take up to three working days. Once granted, the ETA is valid for two years (or until your passport expires, whichever comes first).

  • Q - Which local supplier will be providing the tour?

    A - City Sightseeing Gbp Corporate name: City Sightseeing Ltd Registered Office: Suite 8 Floor 3 Grosvenor House Redditch, Worcestershire, United Kingdom Tax Identification Number (VAT ID): GB108243538 Contact information Email: bookings@city-sightseeing.com Phone: +44 0 1789 299123

  • Q - What happens if I travel without an ETA?

    A - If your nationality requires an ETA and you don’t have one, you won’t be allowed to board a flight to the UK—even for a layover.

  • Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

    A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities.

  • Q - How to book?

    A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

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If you have any other questions please contact us.

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