Viator is the world’s largest experiences marketplace, helping travelers book tours and activities in more than 200 countries. It is one of my go-to sites for finding all the best things to do no matter where I am in the world.
Whether you’re exploring a new city for the first time or revisiting a favorite destination, Viator makes it easy to find experiences that match your interests and schedule. From walking tours and cooking classes to catamaran rides and tickets to popular landmarks, Viator connects you with thousands of options for unforgettable adventures.
Keep reading to learn how Viator works, tips for getting the best experience, and how to make the most of your bookings.
Published: September 5, 2025
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How Viator Works
Viator simplifies planning your trips by letting you browse and book tours online or via their app. Here’s what you can expect when using the platform:
- One-Stop Marketplace: Viator offers more than 300,000 experiences worldwide, so you can book tours, day trips, tickets, and transportation all in one place.
- Flexible Booking Options: Most tours allow cancellations up to 24 hours in advance, giving you freedom to adjust your plans if needed.
- Instant Confirmation: Many experiences offer instant booking confirmation, so you can secure your spot immediately and avoid waiting in line at the destination.
- Local Expertise: Tours are hosted by vetted guides and operators, so you’ll get an insider’s perspective while exploring.
Using Viator is simple: choose your destination, browse the available tours, filter by category, price, or rating, and book directly through the site or app.
Types of Experiences You Can Book
Viator offers a wide variety of experiences, and I have booked and taken all kinds of tours with them. Some of my favorites including food tours, boat cruises, and cooking classes.
Here are some of the types of tours and experiences you can find on Viator.
- City Tours and Walking Tours: Discover iconic landmarks and hidden gems with expert guides.
- Food and Drink Experiences: Enjoy wine tastings, cooking classes, and local cuisine tastings.
- Adventure and Outdoor Activities: Go kayaking, hiking, or on scenic boat trips.
- Tickets and Passes: Skip the line at popular museums, landmarks, and theme parks.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Book tours suitable for kids and multigenerational trips.
- Transportation Services: Viator also offers airport transfers, bus tours, and day trips to nearby destinations.
With thousands of options, there’s something for everyone, whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or with family.
The Best Viator Tours
I’ve personally booked many tours through Viator and loved how easy it is to explore new cities with expert guidance. Here are some of the most popular tours on Viator—these are the tours I recommend to anyone visiting these destinations.
These tours are a great way to get the most out of your trip, save time, and discover parts of a city you might otherwise miss.
Tips for Booking on Viator
Booking tours through Viator is straightforward, but a few tips can help you make the most of the platform:
- Book Early: Popular tours can fill up fast, especially during peak travel seasons.
- Check Reviews: Viator features verified traveler reviews so you can choose the best experiences.
- Use Filters: Narrow your search by price, duration, language, or type of activity to find exactly what you’re looking for.
- Flexible Cancellations: Most tours allow free cancellations up to 24 hours before the tour starts, giving you peace of mind if plans change.
- Look for Deals: Viator occasionally runs sales, especially during Black Friday. You can check my Viator Black Friday guide for tips on when and where to save.
Why Use Viator
Viator is ideal for travelers who want to make the most of their time in a new city without spending hours researching activities. Using Viator saves time, ensures quality experiences, and gives you confidence that your bookings are secure and backed by reliable operators.
Whether you’re exploring solo, with a partner, or with friends and family, Viator makes planning a trip stress-free while providing access to unforgettable experiences around the world.
Final Thoughts
Booking tours with Viator is one of the best ways to discover a city and its culture while saving time and avoiding common travel headaches. With flexible cancellations, instant confirmations, and thousands of experiences to choose from, it’s a platform I rely on for every trip.
If you want to know about any upcoming deals, don’t forget to visit my Viator Black Friday guide.
Book your next adventure with Viator today and make your trip unforgettable.
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