Why is an Overhyped Tour Bus a Travel Win?

You hop off a plane in just about any destination from London to Tokyo and see those colorful, overhyped tour buses. They clumsily maneuver down the city streets with crowds of tourists sitting on two levels while a loudspeaker gives them a rundown on the surrounding attractions. Who would ever use those?

Before you dismiss it as something for unseasoned tourists, consider hop-on, hop-off tour buses as a total travel win. Those buses are ideal for short layovers where time is finite, and figuring out local transportation isn’t always feasible. These buses also allow for some extra rest and relaxation on a busy trip.

Travelers with colds or who just need to rest after a night out can sit and luxuriate while someone else takes them around town. Tour buses are also ideally suited for families who can’t easily wrangle kids off and on city buses and subways. While kids snooze, parents can learn about their destination and enjoy the sights.

Before you dismiss tour buses as something for “other tourists,” consider it an option when you need convenience and ease. It could mean the difference between exploring the city over a few hours on a layover or sitting at the airport, painfully aware of how much time you’re wasting staring at the gate kiosk.

Most major cities have these tour buses, and companies differ depending on what city you’re in. The best way to find one of these buses is beelining to the city center and keeping an eye out. Just make sure to watch the time so you can make your layover.