Your Comprehensive Guide to Booking Tours and Activities with Viator

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When planning a trip, one of the first things I do (after securing the plane ticket) is check out Viator. So, what exactly is Viator? It’s the world’s largest online marketplace for tours, activities, and attractions. Whether your next adventure is a wine-tasting tour in Florence or a helicopter ride over New York City, Viator can help facilitate your travel plans. With nearly a decade of experience using Viator for everything from swamp tours in Louisiana to exploring ice caves in Iceland, I’m excited to shine a light on this platform and dispel any myths.

Understanding Viator

Viator is not just another travel booking site; it’s a comprehensive marketplace that aggregates tours from various providers, making it easier for travelers to discover activities in their desired destination. Similar to how other booking platforms consolidate airline and hotel options, Viator does the same for tours. This means more visibility for local tour companies and more options for you!

Why You Should Book With Viator

There are numerous reasons to consider booking your next tour or activity with Viator. Here are some frequently asked questions that may help you understand why this platform stands out:

Is Viator reliable? Absolutely! Founded in 1995 and acquired by TripAdvisor in 2014, Viator has established a robust reputation. They offer 24/7 customer support, earn rewards opportunities, and provide options to reserve tours without immediate payment, allowing for flexibility in your travel plans.
Is Viator legit? As the largest online marketplace for tours and attractions, Viator is continually growing and improving. Tour providers are vetted to ensure quality, and you can browse through customer reviews to guarantee you’re making the best choice.

You don’t even need to travel far to enjoy Viator’s offerings. Staycations have become a beloved way for people to explore their local areas, and Viator can help you uncover hidden gems in your own state. Beyond tours, Viator also provides options for airport transportation, tickets to shows, museum admissions, and much more.

Discover Top Activities and Tours

When you create a Viator account, you can personalize your profile based on your interests. However, if you prefer a more straightforward approach, you can simply use the search feature to see what’s available in your chosen destination. With over 300,000 tours at your fingertips, you’re bound to find something that piques your interest. Major tourist destinations like Las Vegas and New York City yield a plethora of results, but don’t overlook smaller locales—they often have unique experiences to offer as well.

Here are some of the top searches on Viator across the United States:

Las Vegas: A helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon is a classic, though it can be a little pricey. Fortunately, Viator allows you to filter search results by price, duration, and type of tour, letting you find great options within your budget.
New York City: Consider a guided food tour through the diverse neighborhoods of NYC to experience culinary delights you might not find on your own.
National Parks: Explore the wonders of nature with guided tours in iconic locations like Yosemite or Yellowstone.

As you explore Viator, you’ll discover that you can see the tour operator’s information in the Additional Info section, which is especially useful if you want to conduct your own research on a specific provider.

Real Reviews for Authentic Experiences

Once you’ve narrowed down your tour options, take a moment to browse through Viator Reviews. Each review is submitted by actual customers who booked and participated in the tours, giving you an authentic insight into the experience. Viator takes these reviews seriously; only users who booked through the platform can leave feedback, ensuring that all reviews are genuine.

For example, Northern Lights tours are among the most sought-after experiences on Viator. Here’s what some travelers had to say:

This was a spectacular excursion. Arctic Night Tours did an excellent, & outstanding tour. It was more than words can reflect. What was expected was totally met + more. Ed and Eliana were marvelous in helping my partner with her disabilities to complete her bucket list & assist her with mobility issues. And we were so pleased that at one point; we put our hands up and said with joy, “Mission accomplished.” Enjoyed the search for the Northern Lights… the entire experience was off the charts, Great.

Wow. This tour was amazing! The hosts, Ed & Elena have great communication & do everything possible to set you up for a successful Northern Lights tour! They’ll drive all over Alaska to ensure you can see them. As with any Northern Lights tour, there is a decent amount of waiting around—just prepare yourself! Elena and Ed provided snacks, history, and stories, and made sure we were comfortable during the wait in the van. They are so kind and personable—they took over 400 gorgeous photos throughout the night! I would recommend this tour to absolutely everyone!

How to Easily Book Your Viator Tour

Booking a tour on Viator is a simple and user-friendly process. Start by creating an account, then select your preferred date for the tour and reserve your spot. You can choose between reserving now and paying later or paying upfront, depending on your comfort level and flexibility. If you’re considering an outdoor activity, it could be wise to wait for a more accurate weather forecast before locking in your date.

Viator’s cancellation policy is also traveler-friendly. You can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour for a full refund. After your experience, Viator encourages feedback by reaching out to ask about your tour and inviting you to submit a review. This feedback is vital for maintaining the quality of tours offered on the platform and helps future travelers make informed decisions.

Conclusion

In summary, Viator is an invaluable resource for travelers seeking to enhance their adventures through unique tours and activities. With its vast selection, user-friendly interface, and reliable reviews, Viator makes planning your next getaway a breeze. Whether you’re exploring a new city or rediscovering your hometown, Viator offers something for everyone. So, the next time you’re preparing for a trip, remember to check out Viator for an array of unforgettable experiences waiting to be discovered.