A guide to the best ways to see the AMAZING city of York

The best ways to see the city of Vikings and ghosts

Author: Sarah ReevePublished 25th Sep 2020
Last updated 7th Oct 2020

Steeped in history such as the stunning York Minister, Clifford’s Tower or maybe the National Railway Museum or Jorvik Viking Centre is more your thing; there is plenty to discover, whether you have visited many times or are a first-time visitor – you won’t be disappointed!

It may be a walled city, but that doesn’t mean you are restricted when choosing how to travel around York, there are plenty of options.

Is York safe to walk around?

Don your comfiest shoes, because York is best explored on foot. Narrow passages and ancient cobbled streets; you can easily get from one side of the city to the other in just 20 minutes and many of York’s attractions are next to each other.

Closed to vehicles between 10:30am and 5pm, the roads (‘footstreets’) within the pedestrianised city walls are uninterrupted by the hustle and bustle making York the perfect city for walking enthusiasts.

Where in York can I hire a bike?

Want to explore on two wheels? Solo or on a guided tour, there are plenty of choices when it comes to cycling in York – and you’ll be pleased to know, it’s quite flat!

The medieval city has an array of outlets where you can hire anything from a road bike for a leisurely ride, a mountain bike to explore the Yorkshire Moors, children's bikes for the little ones, specially adapted or even an electric bike!

For more information on cycle-friendly hire we recommend Visit York’s guide here.

Where can I find all the latest information on bus services in York?

There are hop-on, hop-off bus tours and local bus services all around York and surroundings areas or why not make use of the Park & Ride facilities - the wheels definitely go round and round when visiting York.

City of York council have a jam-packed resource for all things travel in York; iTravel York brings you all the latest information for however you choose to travel. For details of bus fares, routes, timetables and Park & Ride click here.

Where can I park in York?

15 public car parks are available and operated by York City Council, visit the council’s website for more information here.

Alternatively, Park & Ride is the most money efficient and convenient way when travelling by car; securely park for free all day and hop on the bus – the services are frequent and cheap to the city centre - £3.30 return. Up to 3 children can travel free with each adult. More information on Park & Ride can be found here.