York’s guided tours pack centuries of history into bite-sized, memorable experiences. The most practical options include the hop-on hop-off bus tours – perfect for first-time visitors who want to get their bearings while resting their feet. For history buffs, the medieval walking tours are simply the best way to understand York’s fascinating past, with guides who really know their stuff.
We particularly love the evening ghost tours through the shambles – they’re entertaining, historically accurate, and give you a different perspective of the old town after dark. The food and pub tours are another favorite, offering a tasty mix of Yorkshire specialties while introducing visitors to authentic local haunts that travelers typically miss.
Let’s look at our carefully selected top tours that showcase the very best of York.
Good To Know
-
York offers a range of guided tours led by knowledgeable local experts, including bike tours, walking tours, and pub tours with high customer satisfaction.
-
The City of York Private Guided Day Tour provides a personalized nine-hour journey through the city’s history and landmarks with transportation, bottled water, and WiFi.
-
Unique thematic tours, such as the “Europe’s Most Haunted City” audio tour and the Full Hoot Distillery Tour & Guided Hooting Owl Experience, offer immersive exploration of York’s rich heritage.
-
Hop-on hop-off and self-guided audio tours, like the “Romans, Vikings and Medieval Marvels” tour, provide flexibility and informative content for exploring York’s key attractions.
-
Many tours in York are wheelchair and stroller-accessible, ensuring inclusivity, and private tours offer customized experiences tailored to group interests.
Golden Tours York Hop-On Hop-Off Open Top Bus Tour With Audio Guide
One of the most popular guided tours in York is the Golden Tours York Hop-On Hop-Off Open Top Bus Tour with Audio Guide.
With 313 reviews and a 92% recommendation rate, this tour offers an excellent way to explore the city at your own pace. The tour includes 20 stops, allowing you to visit key attractions like York Minster, Jorvik Viking Centre, and Clifford’s Tower.
The tour features an audio guide in English and is wheelchair and stroller accessible. The 24 or 48-hour ticket provides unlimited usage, and the circuit duration is approximately 1 hour.
While some customers have mentioned cold bus conditions and communication issues, the tour is generally praised for its convenience, knowledgeable guides, and enjoyable experiences.
Read our full review: Golden Tours York Hop-On Hop-Off Open Top Bus Tour With Audio Guide Review
Book now: Check availability
Romans, Vikings and Medieval Marvels in York: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
Across the cobblestone streets of York, the self-guided “Romans, Vikings and Medieval Marvels in York” audio tour offers a captivating exploration of the city’s rich historical legacy.
With a 4.5/5 star rating from 103 reviews, this VoiceMap app-based tour provides lifetime access to detailed narratives, maps, and geodata. Priced at ₹1,040.57 per person, the tour covers key sites and lesser-known gems, allowing travelers to discover York’s connections to significant historical events and figures.
While the tour’s flexibility is praised, some users reported technical difficulties with the app. The tour is recommended for its informative content and ease of exploration at one’s own pace.
Read our full review: Romans, Vikings and Medieval Marvels in York: A Self-Guided Audio Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Guided Bike Tour in York
Exploring the charming streets and historic landmarks of York has never been more engaging than with the Guided Bike Tour. This 5-star rated experience takes visitors on a 2.5-hour journey through the city, led by the personable and knowledgeable guide, Cecil.
Cyclists can expect to see key landmarks, uncover lesser-known areas, and learn about York’s rich Viking and Roman history. Suitable for all fitness levels, the tour traverses mostly flat terrain with a few gentle inclines.
Travelers consistently praise the tour’s informative and entertaining storytelling, as well as the guide’s humor and expertise. Whether you’re a newcomer or a frequent visitor, this bike tour offers an exceptional way to explore the charm of York.
Read our full review: Guided Bike Tour in York Review
Book now: Check availability
Christmas Guided Walking Tour in York
The Christmas Guided Walking Tour in York offers visitors a delightful and immersive experience to uncover the city’s rich festive history and traditions.
Led by a professional Blue Badge Tourist Guide, the small-group tour explores top sights like the iconic York Minster and the charming Shambles Market, while sharing captivating stories about Viking feasts, Victorian authors, and medieval Christmas rituals.
Travelers will delight in learning fun facts about the impact of figures like Charles Dickens on modern holiday celebrations.
With overwhelmingly positive reviews, this tour provides a unique and engaging way to experience York’s magical atmosphere during the festive season.
Read our full review: Christmas Guided Walking Tour in York Review
Book now: Check availability
Guided Historic Pub Tour (York)
On the Guided Historic Pub Tour in York, visitors embark on an engaging journey through the city’s rich pub heritage.
This 2.5-hour tour, capped at 12 participants, takes guests to up to seven local pubs, including the iconic Kings Arms.
Along the way, the knowledgeable guide shares entertaining histories and stories, complemented by the opportunity to sample alcoholic beverages.
With a 100% recommendation rate and 4.5-star reviews, the tour offers an immersive experience that showcases the significance of pubs in York’s culture, despite some being chain establishments.
The tour’s accessibility, flexible booking, and optional tip for the guide make it a convenient and customizable activity for visitors to York.
Read our full review: Guided Historic Pub Tour (York) Review
Book now: Check availability
York Small-Group Evening Walking Tour With Guide
Nestled in the heart of York’s medieval center, the York Small-Group Evening Walking Tour with Guide offers visitors a captivating exploration of the city’s rich history and architectural gems.
Lasting approximately one hour, this guided tour takes guests through the narrow “Snickelways” and past iconic landmarks like York Minster and the Shambles.
Led by knowledgeable guides who use multimedia storytelling, the experience provides a unique perspective on York’s past, with a complimentary map to aid further discovery.
Accommodating a maximum of 8 travelers, this walking tour is accessible to all and highly recommended, with 100% of participants endorsing the experience.
Read our full review: York Small-Group Evening Walking Tour With Guide Review
Book now: Check availability
Europe’s Most Haunted City: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of York
Exploring York’s haunted history takes a turn from the city’s medieval architecture as travelers embark on the self-guided “Europe’s Most Haunted City: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of York.”
This comprehensive audio experience transports visitors through the ancient streets, uncovering ghostly tales and unsettling legends that have captivated locals and travelers alike.
The GPS-based app guides users at their own pace, with lifetime access to the tour and offline capabilities.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers and offers a unique way to discover York’s spooky past, all from the comfort of one’s own device.
Read our full review: Europe’s Most Haunted City: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of York Review
Book now: Check availability
Discover the Best of York With 3 Self-Guided Audio Tours
Travelers seeking to uncover the captivating history and enchanting atmosphere of York, England can enjoy a trio of self-guided audio tours.
These tours, available through the VoiceMap app, offer an intimate and flexible exploration of the city. Visitors can choose from “Europe’s Most Haunted City,” “Battlements of History,” and “Medieval York,” each concluding at a different landmark.
With offline access to audio, maps, and geodata, the tours can be experienced at any time over a multi-year period. Priced from $17 per person, the tours provide a unique and immersive way to discover York’s rich heritage and captivating sights.
Read our full review: Discover the Best of York With 3 Self-Guided Audio Tours Review
Book now: Check availability
York: Self-Guided App Tour
Often, visitors to York can explore the city’s captivating history and charming sights through a self-guided audio tour accessible via a smartphone app.
The York Guide offers control over sightseeing, allowing you to discover the city’s cool areas and learn about its past at your own pace. The app includes a map, images, and 48 hours of uninterrupted content covering key locations like Dick Turpin’s Grave, York City Walls, The Shambles, and Clifford’s Tower.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, service animal friendly, and near public transportation, making it suitable for most travelers.
Whether you’re exploring solo or with a private group, the York Guide provides a flexible and immersive way to experience the best of this historic city.
Read our full review: York: Self-Guided App Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
York Private Walking Tour With a Professional Guide
For those seeking a more personalized sightseeing experience, the York Private Walking Tour with a Professional Guide offers an immersive journey through the city’s captivating history.
Priced at $334.07 for groups of up to 15, this private tour provides a knowledgeable local guide exclusively for your party. The tour is fully customizable and wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a wide range of visitors.
Reviewers consistently praise the guides’ expertise and engaging storytelling, highlighting the tour’s ability to bring York’s past to life.
Whether you’re interested in the city’s architectural gems or want to uncover its hidden gems, this private walking tour is an excellent way to explore York at your own pace.
Read our full review: York Private Walking Tour With a Professional Guide Review
Book now: Check availability
York From York Minister to Stonegate Self-Guided Walking Tour
Embarking on a self-guided journey, the York From York Minister to Stonegate Walking Tour invites visitors to explore the city’s iconic landmarks at their own pace.
Operated by Vidi Guides, the tour is available for download on mobile devices, allowing for offline listening.
Travelers can expect access to a GPS map, earphones, and all entrance tickets, including access to the Yorkshire Museum.
Along the way, they’ll discover Instagram-worthy photo opportunities and learn from a local historian’s narration.
The tour runs daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours on Fridays, and can be booked for as little as €8.58 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
Read our full review: York From York Minister to Stonegate Self-Guided Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
York Food & History Tour With Local Guide
On this immersive York Food & History Tour, a local guide leads visitors on a culinary and cultural exploration of the city.
The small-group experience, capped at 6 travelers, allows for a personalized adventure. During the tour, participants enjoy a delicious lunch and the opportunity to sample and purchase local specialties.
The guide shares insights into York’s rich history and vibrant food scene, engaging participants in the local culture.
With convenient meeting and return points, and the ability to accommodate dietary restrictions, this tour provides an accessible and memorable way to discover the flavors and traditions that make York unique.
Read our full review: York Food & History Tour With Local Guide Review
Book now: Check availability
City of York Private Guided Day Tour
Travelers seeking an in-depth exploration of York’s illustrious history and captivating landmarks can embark on the City of York Private Guided Day Tour.
This nine-hour experience offers a personalized journey through the city, led by a knowledgeable private guide. The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and WiFi, as well as free cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours in advance.
Highlights may include visits to paid sites, such as iconic attractions, with entry tickets available for purchase. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and most travelers can participate.
Guests enjoy a hassle-free experience, with pickup and drop-off at their desired location, and the convenience of a private tour tailored to their preferences.
Read our full review: City of York Private Guided Day Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Private York Minster Guided Walking Tour
The Private York Minster Guided Walking Tour offers visitors a captivating exploration of the iconic York Minster cathedral.
This 2-hour tour boasts a 5.0 rating based on 32 reviews, with 97% of travelers recommending it. Guests will be guided through the Minster’s stunning architecture, accompanied by informative books detailing its historical significance.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller-accessible, with a convenient meeting point near the main entrance.
While the majority of travelers have had positive experiences, one review noted disappointment with the guide’s delivery and depth of knowledge.
Read our full review: Private York Minster Guided Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
The Full Hoot Distillery Tour & Guided Hooting Owl Experience
For those seeking a unique and immersive experience beyond the grandeur of York Minster, the Full Hoot Distillery Tour & Guided Hooting Owl Experience promises a captivating exploration of the Hooting Owl Distillery.
Starting at 7:00 PM, this 2.5-hour tour welcomes up to 30 travelers for an intimate journey into the world of craft spirits. Guests will enjoy alcoholic beverages and snacks as they discover the distillery’s inner workings and learn about the art of distilling.
Wheelchair-accessible and located near public transportation, this highly-rated experience concludes back at the meeting point, leaving participants with a newfound appreciation for the local craft spirits scene.
Read our full review: The Full Hoot Distillery Tour & Guided Hooting Owl Experience Review
Book now: Check availability
York Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour
Designed for independent explorers, the York Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour invites participants on a captivating journey through the historic city.
This self-guided walking tour, accessible via a mobile app, allows visitors to uncover York’s rich heritage at their own pace. Starting and ending at 2 Phoenix Blvd, the tour is available daily from 12:00 AM to 11:30 PM, with tickets priced from $11.64 per person.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour welcomes service animals. With a single review averaging 3.0 stars, the tour provides an engaging way to learn about York’s sights, though feedback suggests room for improvement in location accuracy.
Explorial invites participants to explore the tour and provide insights to enhance future experiences.
Read our full review: York Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Pets Allowed on the Guided Tours?
Most guided tours do not allow pets to accompany visitors. However, some tours may make exceptions for service animals. Visitors should check with the tour company beforehand to inquire about their pet policy.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tours?
The cancellation policy typically allows for full refunds if the tour is canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Many operators have flexible policies to accommodate last-minute changes or unforeseen circumstances.
Do the Tours Offer Any Discounts for Seniors or Students?
Many guided tours offer discounts for seniors and students. Businesses may provide reduced rates or special packages to make their tours more accessible to these demographic groups. It’s best to check each tour provider’s policies for specific discount information.
How Accessible Are the Tours for Individuals With Disabilities?
The tours generally aim to be accessible for individuals with disabilities, with many providing accommodations such as wheelchair-friendly routes and audio assistance. However, it’s best to inquire about specific accessibility features when booking a tour.
Do the Tours Have Any Age Restrictions or Requirements?
Most guided tours don’t have strict age restrictions, but some may not be suitable for young children. Travelers should check with the tour provider to ensure the tour activities align with their group’s needs and abilities.
The Sum Up
York offers a wide range of guided tours, catering to various interests and preferences. From hop-on hop-off bus tours with audio guides to bike tours, walking tours, and even distillery experiences, there’s something for all. Whether you’re interested in the city’s rich history, architecture, or local culture, these guided tours provide an engaging and informative way to explore the charming city of York.