London in One Day Sightseeing Tour Including Tower of London, Changing of the Guard with Optional London Eye Upgrade

Begin in central London when you hop inside your comfortable, air-conditioned coach. Meet your friendly, local guide, and then sit back and enjoy the sights on a panoramic drive around the heart of this historical city.

See the iconic Big Ben and Houses of Parliament in Parliament Square, and snap pictures of Westminster Abbey where Prince William and Kate Middleton were married in a grand ceremony in April 2011.

See the handsome government buildings along Whitehall and pass Downing Street, the London base of the British Prime Minister. Then, gaze up at Nelson’s Column in buzzing Trafalgar Square, and drive to Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Walk to the palace gates to watch the Changing of the Guard. Look on in delight as the soldiers of the Queen’s Foot Guard, clothed in red tunics and bearskin hats, exchange duties to the regal music of a military band, and learn about this centuries-old ceremony from your guide.

Next, continue by coach to a cozy London pub in Trafalgar Square. Sit down to a tasty lunch (own expense) and then pick up your tour again in the City of London. Located east of the West End, and famous for its financial institutions, this history-steeped district is home to the Bank of England and St Paul’s Cathedral. Hop out for fast-track entry and a guided tour of St Paul's Cathedral.

Afterward, pay a visit to the Tower of London, the medieval prison-fortress that stands on the north banks of the Thames River. Head inside to explore independently, and learn about the tower’s blood-soaked history. Founded in the 1080s by William the Conqueror, this imposing complex has served as a palace, armoury, prison and execution site, and is known for its ravens and colorful Beefeater guides.

If you wish, join one of the complimentary Beefeater tours that run every 30 minutes from inside the gates. Learn about the famous events that took place here, and hear some of the mysteries that still haunt the complex.

Before your tour ends, receive a complimentary ticket for a sightseeing cruise on the River Thames, from the Tower of London to Westminster Pier. Upgrade to include a flexible ticket for the London Eye to be used any time.