Many travelers expect Hollywood Bus Tours to be all alike. But choosing between a private or public Hollywood bus tour can shape far more than just your route.
The difference affects price, flexibility, and which landmarks you see during sightseeing in Los Angeles. One isn’t better than the other—they’re built for different kinds of travelers.
This breakdown helps you pick the perfect option for your next Hollywood bus journey—and experience the city in a way that fits how you like to travel.
What is Hollywood Bus Tours??
Hollywood Bus Tours take visitors through the glitzy streets where stars live and work. Travelers can enjoy guided tours that provide insight into Hollywood’s history and its legendary celebrity homes.
These city tours cruise past celebrity homes in Beverly Hills, iconic landmarks like the Hollywood Sign, and famous spots along the Sunset Strip and Hollywood Blvd. Our Taste of LA Hollywood Tour even extends to areas like The Grove & Farmers Market, Griffith Observatory, and Santa Monica. Hollywood Bus Tours are a convenient and fun way to sightsee the best of Los Angeles without the hassle of navigating traffic or finding parking.
Types of Hollywood Tours: Public vs. Private
Public Tours
Public Hollywood Bus Tours are designed for simplicity, structure, and shared discovery. These tours typically run on a set schedule with fixed routes through Hollywood and key Los Angeles neighborhoods, offering an efficient way to see the city’s most famous landmarks without the need to plan or navigate on your own.
At Hollywood Bus Tours, our public tours use open-air buses with expert guides—not hop-on hop-off loops or generic audio commentary. You’ll cruise past iconic locations like:
- The Hollywood Sign
- Hollywood Walk of Fame
- Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive
- Mulholland Drive
- Celebrity homes and filming locations
- Sunset Strip and the TCL Chinese Theatre
Tours generally last between 2 to 3 hours and depart regularly from central locations such as Hollywood Blvd. Prices are accessible, starting at $44 per person depending on the route.
Public tours are ideal for solo travelers, families, or anyone looking to cover the city’s essentials in a social, relaxed format while exploring Hollywood’s most famous landmarks. With frequent departures, celebrity sightings, and must-visit Los Angeles attractions, it’s a budget-friendly way to experience LA’s highlights.
Popular Tour Options
- Celebrity Homes Tour — A 2-hour guided look at Hollywood’s most exclusive neighborhoods
- Taste of LA Tour — A 5.5-Hour experience through Santa Monica, The Grove & Farmers Market, and The Griffith Observatory
- The Perfect Day in LA — A 7.5-hour combination of our most popular routes
Private Tours
For those seeking a more personalized experience, we also offer fully customized private tours. Choose your itinerary, explore at your own pace, and enjoy the comfort of a dedicated vehicle. These tours are ideal for families, VIP guests, or anyone who prefers a quieter, more tailored way to see the city—with extended stops and access to locations beyond the standard route.
Whether you’re joining a public city tour or building your own Hollywood itinerary, we make it easy to explore with flexibility, local insight, and trusted service.
Private Vehicle Options
- 13-seat Open-Air Van — Customized for sightseeing. $499 for the first 2 hours, $199 each additional hour
- 22-seat Bus with Windows & A/C — Climate-controlled. $790 for the first 2 hours, $290 each additional hour
Both private options include a professional guide, flexible routing, hotel pickup on request, and access to top locations like the Hollywood Sign, Beverly Hills, and Mulholland Drive—with the freedom to spend more time where it matters to you.
Private tours work especially well for:
- Families or groups wanting a quieter, shared experience
- Travelers on a tight schedule who want to prioritize
- Guests looking for privacy, flexibility, and premium service
If you want to experience Hollywood on your terms—with more control, more comfort, and more to see—a private tour delivers exactly that.
Not Sure Which Los Angeles Tour Is Right for You?
If you’re torn between booking a private or public tour, the decision often comes down to how you like to travel—and what kind of experience you want to have in LA.
Go with a public LA tour if you:
- Want an easy, affordable way to see the top sights
- Don’t mind sharing the experience with other travelers
- Prefer a structured route with set times and stops
- Are traveling solo, as a couple, or with a small group
- Have a limited window and want a quick overview of Hollywood
Choose a private LA tour if you:
- Want full control over your route, schedule, and pace
- Are celebrating something special or traveling with a group
- Prefer a quieter, more personalized experience
- Want to explore beyond the usual stops—or skip some entirely
- Need hotel pickup, more space, or a custom itinerary
Still unsure? Our team can help match you with the right option based on your group size, schedule, and travel goals. Just give us a call—we’re happy to guide you.
Why Choose Hollywood Bus Tours LA?
At Hollywood Bus Tours, we offer both public and private tours—designed to fit how you like to travel. Whether you want the structure of a group tour or the flexibility of a customized route, we make it easy to see the city on your terms.
With over 10,000 five-star reviews on TripAdvisor, Google, and Yelp, we’ve earned a reputation as one of Los Angeles’s most trusted sightseeing providers. Our guides don’t just drive—they bring the city to life with real knowledge, sharp commentary, and a few unexpected stories along the way.
From the Walk of Fame to Celebrity Homes, The Hollywood Sign, and Beverly Hills, we’ll show you the landmarks, and give you context that makes them worth seeing.
What Sets It Apart:
- Over 10,000 five-star reviews across TripAdvisor, Google, and Yelp
- 15-passenger open-air buses for public tours
- Private vans and full-size air-conditioned buses for private groups
- Options for Santa Monica or Hollywooddeparture
- Combo packages and flexible scheduling
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Meeting Location for Hollywood Bus Tours?
Our public tours depart from 7044 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028. Look for our distinctive blue and pink buses right at the heart of Hollywood. For private tours, we do offer pick-up/drop-off at other locations for a small fee.
Is Parking Available for Hollywood Bus Tours?
Yes! We recommend the parking garage at 1670 N Sycamore Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028—just a short walk from our departure point.
How Long is a Hollywood Bus Tour?
The duration of each tour varies based on the option you select. Whether you’re seeking a quick overview or a deep dive into Hollywood’s history, we have the perfect choice. Our public tours are between 2 and 7.5 hours. Our private tours are customizable!
When Should I Check-In for the Tour?
We recommend arriving 15 minutes before departure to secure the best seats and ensure a smooth boarding process. Early check-in also gives you a chance to chat with our friendly staff and ask any questions before your Hollywood adventure begins.
Can I Bring Snacks & Drinks Onboard?
Absolutely! Feel free to bring along snacks and drinks to enjoy during the tour. We just ask that you clean up after yourself to help us maintain our 5-star experience for all guests.
Can I Get Off the Bus During the Tour?
Yes! Many of our LA tours include scheduled stops at key points of interest, giving you time to step off, take photos, and explore. Our knowledgeable guides will be there to provide insights and answer questions at each stop. On our private Los Angeles tours, we can customize the stops to your liking.
Are There Restrooms on the Buses?
Our buses do not have onboard restrooms, but restrooms are available at the departure location and during designated stops. We ensure there are plenty of opportunities to take a break comfortably.
Are Children Required to Use Car Seats?
Yes, whether it is a public or a private LA city tour, in accordance with California State Law, children under 8 years old or shorter than 4’9” must be in an appropriate car seat or booster. While we have limited seats available, bringing your own is recommended.
Do the Tours Have Guides?
Yes! Whether you choose a public or a private tour in Los Angeles, all tours are led by expert local guides who share engaging stories, fascinating facts, and insider knowledge about Hollywood’s legendary sites. It’s not just a tour—it’s an immersive Hollywood experience.
What is the Cancellation Policy?
You can cancel your tour for a full refund up to 24 hours before departure. For same-day bookings, all sales are final. Visit our website for full details on our cancellation policy.
How Far in Advance Should I Book?
To secure your preferred date and time, it’s best to book as soon as possible, especially during peak seasons like Spring Break, Summer, and Christmas.
How Does Hollywood Bus Tours Cater to Movie Buffs?
We go beyond the typical tour by showcasing famous filming locations, historic studios, and legendary celebrity homes. Our guides provide fascinating insights into classic films and Hollywood’s cinematic legacy so you can experience Los Angeles like a true movie aficionado! If you have a particular interest, please let us know and we can personalize your LA private tour to your unique needs.
Ready for your perfect day in Los Angeles?
Book your public city tour of Los Angeles today.
For any questions or to customize your private tour, feel free to contact us and one of our friendly staff will be happy to assist.
