GetYourGuide vs Viator: What is Better?

GetYourGuide vs. Viator, which platform is best for booking your travel? Here is a comprehensive guide of the two that will help you make an informed choice.

Online travel agencies come in handy if you want to avoid the hustle and bustle with traditional traveling guides. They make coordinating your travel plan easy, save you time and money, and provide you with insights into the places you want to visit.

Besides, it’s unwise to pack your bag and start traveling when you don’t know where to go. You need an online travel agent who can direct you and help you choose places to visit before you embark on that trip.

As a traveler, you might struggle to settle on one local provider. All of them seem perfect from the first look. Their services are reliable, and they provide value for your money.

But is this all? Don’t decide yet; things might be different on the ground. In this guide, we shall have a look at two travel organizers. The comparison will be between GetYourGuide vs. Viator. Why are they the most sought after tour booking sites? Are they really what they say they are? If so, who is better, and why? Let us see.

What is GetYourGuide?

GetYourGuide is an organizer that provides holiday planning services to its clients. They help you to book tours, experiences and travels almost anywhere around the globe. Typically, it’s just a middleman between you and the travel companies.

The agency uses the rule of converge-and-present. Here is an excellent example to elaborate on this.

Go to Google on your smartphone now and search for numerous activities you can do when traveling. You will land on numerous company websites with all sorts of information, right?

You might easily get confused during the process. Now, GetYourGuide converges all these companies on a single platform.

When you visit their website, you get access to all the activities and private tours at a go. This saves you time and makes it convenient to get a travel company that suits you.

See Related: Pros and Cons of Being a Travel Agent: Is It Stressful?

How to Book Tours with GetYourGuide

Booking a tour with the GetYourGuide agency is not an uphill battle. You can follow these simple steps.

1. Specify Your Destination

First, access their website, which will introduce you to a location search page by activities. Select the length of your stay in the stipulated location, your preferred language, and the tours that meet your time and schedule.

See Related: Ways to Book the Cheapest First-Class Flights

2. Select Activities

There is always someone before you who has booked a tour or activity you want to book. The site allows them to leave a review, giving you a hint of what you will likely expect.

Read the reviews carefully to avoid disappointment. Besides, the agency certifies a few locations that have proven to be quality attractions and offer activities that rhyme with your needs.

You will also get to know how much you are paying for the activity you have chosen. Check if the travel organizers offer after-sale services like picking you up from the hotel. You can always cancel the tour if you don’t feel convinced enough.

See Related: Best Day to Book Flights

3. Booking and Payment

Now that you have chosen your location, booking and payment are the next steps. First, filter the date, language, and time to avoid an ambiguous booking.

Fill in your billing information on the following page. Since most people use online payment methods like PayPal, be careful when putting your email address.

Note that GetYourGuide does not have booking fees. All the payment is channeled to the actual tour guide. You only have 24 hours to cancel a trip, in which you will be refunded your money by the supplier but not GetYourGuide.

See Related: When is the Best Time to Travel to Puerto Rico? (Ranked)

What is Viator?

Have you heard of TripAdvisor before? Well, a global online travel agency acquired Viator in 2014 for $200 million. This indicates that Viator is no longer an individual company, as earlier presumed. Though it’s operated as a different company, TripAdvisor’s parent company controls most of its operations.

Essentially, Viator is a reputable and well-established organizer but not a tour operator. It has access to over 200,000 bookable activities, more than enough options.

Just like GetYourGuide, Viator has taken advantage of expanding technology and created a portable app for smartphones. You can make a mobile booking and avoid the disappointing “sold out” signs you might come across when dealing with traditional guides.

How to Book Tours with Viator

The booking process is similar since the company has a connection with TripAdvisor. It’s also no different with how to book a guide with GetYourGuide.

First, visit the website, search for an operator, and book directly at a lower price. Note that the price difference is not essential for you at this point.

Why? Viator makes enormous discounts from the organizers they have collaborated with. Once you book your guided tour or ticket, you’ll get more detail on your meeting point to experience the full tour.

See Related: How to Get Cheap Last-Minute Flights

How are GetYourGuide and Viator similar?

1. Booking Fee Considerations: Transparent Pricing

There are significant similarities between GetYourGuide and Viator when it comes to booking fees. Both platforms are committed to providing complete transparency, making sure that you know exactly what you’re paying for when you book an activity with tour operators from around the world.

Even though there may be a booking fee added to the price of your chosen experience, fear not. You’ll always know about it upfront, giving you the power to make informed decisions based on your budget and preferences.

With this level of openness, GetYourGuide and Viator are putting their customers first, ensuring that you have all the information you need to plan your perfect trip.

2. Free Cancellation: Flexible Refund Policies for Most Tours

GetYourGuide and Viator totally get it – travel plans can be unpredictable, and flexibility is key. That’s why they’ve covered you with free cancellation options for most of their own tours and activities.

With GetYourGuide, you can get a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the same tour — no need to stress about changing your plans and getting hit with an extra booking fee.

Viator also offers free cancellations with full refund for most tours, which means you can get your money back if you cancel within the set time. Of course, the rules might differ for each tour description, but they all have one thing in common: making sure you’re happy and worry-free.

Incredibly, both platforms have these policies because it shows they care about giving travelers the best possible experience and the freedom to change their plans.

See Related: Important Pros and Cons of Travel Insurance

3. Various Payment Options: Convenience and Security

GetYourGuide and Viator share another fantastic feature – they offer payment options to meet every traveler’s needs. Whether you prefer Visa, Mastercard, or American Express, both platforms have got you covered. It means you can pick the payment method that suits you best and enjoy a hassle-free and safe transaction process.

GetYourGuide and Viator also offer an alternative payment method, including the ever-accessible PayPal. It means you can enjoy extra security and convenience, especially if you’re not keen on sharing your credit card details. These platforms are all about putting the customer first, making it super easy for you to book your dream experiences hassle-free.

See Related: The Best Travel Credit Cards

4. Reserve Now & Pay Later: Securing Your Spot with Ease

Another similarity between these platforms is that they provide a hassle-free way to book your dream tours or activities. By reserving now and paying later, you can quickly secure your spot in advance without paying the total amount upfront.

With a small deposit or by providing payment details, you can lock in your preferred experience and pay the remaining balance closer to the date. This excellent feature offers flexibility and peace of mind, allowing you to plan and confirm all the details of your activities ahead of time without any immediate payment worries.

5. Access to Customer Reviews: Insights from Fellow Travelers

These platforms understand the importance of customer reviews in helping travelers plan their adventures. By giving you access to honest and insightful thoughts from fellow explorers, you can get a real sense of what to expect from each attraction or tour.

These reviews are invaluable, providing candid opinions on quality, experience, and overall satisfaction. With this information at your fingertips, you can confidently choose the activities that align with your preferences and expectations.

With GetYourGuide and Viator, you can browse customer reviews for every attraction – from unforgettable hiking tours to fascinating museum visits and heart-pumping adventures. This gives you a complete picture of all the unique experiences waiting for you.

How are GetYourGuide and Viator different?

1. Price Match Guarantee

Viator sets itself apart by providing a price match guarantee. If you come across the same experience from the same operator, priced in the same currency, at a lower rate within three days of booking or while on your trip, Viator will give you back the difference.

To request a refund, email (priceguarantee@viator.com) with proof of the lower price, your name, and your home address. This dedication to fair pricing means travelers can enjoy their chosen experiences without breaking the bank.

Although GetYourGuide doesn’t offer a price guarantee, comparing prices across various platforms is always a good idea to ensure you’re getting the best deal for your desired tours and activities.

See Related: Cheap Places to Travel

2. 24/7 Live Support

Viator offers exceptional customer support with 24/7 live assistance. No matter your questions or concerns, their team is always available to help. This means you can enjoy your travels with complete peace of mind, knowing that help is just a phone call away.

While GetYourGuide also provides customer support, it may not be available around the clock like Viator. Make sure to compare the customer support options of each platform to find the one that suits your needs and travel style best.

See Related: Best Travel Agent Tools to Use

3. Sustainable Travel Experiences

GetYourGuide is all about promoting sustainable travel experiences. They go out of their way to find eco-friendly tours and activities, support local conservation efforts, and encourage responsible tourism. It means that travelers can choose experiences that positively impact the environment and the places they visit.

Although Viator also has sustainable travel options, GetYourGuide offers a broader range of environmentally conscious choices. If you value responsible and sustainable tourism practices, then GetYourGuide is definitely the platform for you.

What’s better about GetYourGuide?

Feeling exhausted from scouring endless booking sites for the ideal adventure? GetYourGuide is the top pick for thrill-seekers seeking epic experiences. Here’s what makes them better compared to other local operators.

1. Unparalleled Selection

Picture a massive collection of travel adventures just waiting for you to discover. GetYourGuide has an unbeatable assortment of tours, activities, and sights in every corner of the planet.

Whether after cultural immersion, heart-pumping thrills, or delicious eats, GetYourGuide has your back. With a whopping 45,000+ activities, you can customize each trip to suit your wildest dreams and explore the world your way.

2. Verified Reviews and Rating

Trust is vital when booking experiences, and that’s why GetYourGuide has your back. They ensure you’re in the know by giving you reviews and ratings from real travelers – no fake information here. Their authentication process is thorough, guaranteeing that the reviews are legit. So, let your fellow explorers guide you to the best activities for your journey.

3. Seamless Booking Process

GetYourGuide gets it – booking should be a breeze, not a headache. That’s why they’ve nailed down the perfect process. Their platform is so easy to use you’ll be finding your dream experience in no time.

Just tell them what you’re into, when, and where you want to go, and voila. You’re booked and ready to go. No more pulling your hair out over confusing booking forms. GetYourGuide has got your back and wants you to focus on the fun stuff.

4. Flexibility and Easy To Use Platform

Life is like a box of chocolates; you never know what you’ll get. But fear not. GetYourGuide gets it and offers flexible cancellation policies on many activities. So if your plans change, no sweat.

You can easily modify or cancel your bookings, giving you much-needed peace of mind. And with their handy-dandy mobile app, you can access your reservations and tickets on the go. Talk about convenience!

What’s better about Viator?

But what about Viator? Let’s compare what makes it better than GetYourGuide so you can weigh your options better.

1. Extensive Global Network

Just picture this: a world of fun and excitement at your fingertips. Viator’s got you covered with over 345,000 experiences in countless destinations across the globe.

They’ve got it all if you’re after cultural immersion, heart-pumping outdoor thrills, or mouth-watering cuisine. So explore the world on your terms – with Viator, the possibilities are endless.

2. Filter & Browsing Options

Viator’s got some tricks up its sleeve to help you see your destination. You could type in your desired spot and scroll through options pages, but why settle for ordinary? Viator’s filter and browsing options are the real MVPs here.

Take any destination, for example. At the top of the page, you’ll find clickable categories for all the best tours in town. Click on one, and voila! You’ll be taken to the cream of the crop in that category.

From there, it’s smooth sailing as you browse and choose from many activities. Don’t settle for just okay – let Viator show you all the possibilities.

3. Exclusive Deals and Discounts

Who doesn’t love a bargain? Viator hooks you with sweet discounts and special deals, ensuring you get the most bang for your buck.

Whether that’s snagging early-bird specials or scoring seasonal promos, Viator is all about giving you affordable options without sacrificing quality. With Viator, you can globe-trot your heart’s content and keep some cash in your pocket.

See related: What is Travel Concierge: Things to Know.

4. 24/7 Customer Support

When it comes to globetrotting, having top-notch customer service is critical. Viator knows this, and they’ve got your back 24/7, got questions before you book? No problemo. Need a helping hand mid-trip? They’re on it. Post-trip support? You got it.

Their team is dedicated to making sure your adventure is smooth sailing from start to finish. So kick back, relax, and know you’ve got a trusty travel buddy in Viator.

Who should choose GetYourGuide (and why)?

GetYourGuide has taken the travel industry by storm, providing a one-stop shop for global adventurers with varying tastes and requirements. Let’s explore who should opt for GetYourGuide and what makes it the ultimate destination for all kinds of explorers.

• Adventurous Explorers – GetYourGuide is the ultimate go-to for those daring individuals searching for one-of-a-kind and heart-pumping experiences. From soaring over picturesque vistas while paragliding to diving with exotic sea creatures or even trekking through breathtakingly exhilarating hiking trails, GetYourGuide has an extensive array of thrilling activities. With a vast network of reliable local partners, this platform guarantees safety and top-notch quality, all while satisfying the insatiable hunger for the adventure of every thrill-seeker out there.
• Cultural Enthusiasts – GetYourGuide is the perfect gateway to satisfy your thirst for cultural immersion and historical discoveries. With their platform, you can connect with knowledgeable local guides who offer tours of iconic landmarks and off-the-beaten-path cultural encounters. Whether exploring art museums with skip-the-line tickets, visiting ancient ruins, or delving into culinary traditions, GetYourGuide offers immersive experiences that reveal the essence of each destination’s unique heritage.
• Family Travelers – Get ready for a fantastic family vacation with GetYourGuide. Planning can be a bit daunting but fear not. This platform makes it easy by providing many family-friendly activities and attractions. From interactive museum visits to theme park adventures, they offer a diverse range of experiences, no matter their age.

Who should choose Viator (and why)?

Discover why Viator is the ultimate choice for excursionists seeking exceptional experiences. Let’s explore its unparalleled advantages and offerings to determine who should opt for this incredible platform.

• Budget-Conscious Explorers – Who says traveling on a budget means missing out on the fun? Not with Viator! They know how to keep your wallet happy while still offering unique experiences. With their budget-friendly options, you can take advantage of free walking tours or discounted attraction tickets and embark on unforgettable adventures without breaking the bank.
• Urban Adventurers – Viator is the perfect companion for the adventurous city explorer in you. Get ready to uncover the beating heart of bustling metropolises with Viator’s thrilling city tours, delicious culinary adventures, and immersive experiences. With Viator, you can saunter through historic neighborhoods with knowledgeable guides or sample mouth-watering street food like a local.
• Curious Explorers – Are you a curious adventurer seeking out the hidden gems of the world? Look no further than Viator. Their selection of extraordinary experiences takes you beyond the typical tourist attractions. Immerse yourself in cultural workshops and explore off-the-beaten-path excursions that allow you to connect with each destination genuinely. With Viator, satisfy your thirst for authentic travel encounters and embark on unforgettable journeys.

GetYourGuide Reviews

Online reviews about the company are mixed, ranging from “worst experience ever” on Tripadvisor to “best tour company around.” Some customers who had a rough time with GetYourGuide suggest reading the fine print before booking, while others have complained about tours being canceled at the last minute – which is so not cool.

But, if you check out Trustpilot, you’ll find that most reviews are positive, with many praising the knowledgeable and professional guides. Plus, booking tours is a breeze with great deals and no sneaky fees. Customers also seem pretty happy with the reliable customer service.

Viator Reviews

Viator has a boatload of stuff to do and see, so it’s no surprise that their reviews are all over the map. But here’s the scoop: most new reviews are raving about their tour experiences and suggest giving Viator a go.

But, some grumpy travelers had issues with ticketing or were left out in the cold when events were already packed. And if you read some of the not-so-great reviews, you might see complaints about boring guides, overcrowded spots, or meals that didn’t cut it – things Viator can’t control.

GetYourGuide vs Viator Determinant Factors

The competition between these two is stiff, as they all have the same rating. Despite this, you can use a few factors to make your ideal choice.

While it’s difficult to get unbiased tips on choosing the right online booking agency, these differentiators will help you get a clue of what you should check for in the process.

See related: Why is everyone obsessed with travel?

1. Understand What You Want

First, compile a list of what you are looking for. You then divide them into two columns, the must-haves and good-to-haves. A few of the things you should consider here are:

• Payment options
• User-friendly interface
• Good customer support
• Language
• Currency Settings
• Email automation

This is the first step to beginning your sifting process. But that’s not all; there are still other factors that may overrule your choice in this step.

2. Simplicity of Use

The two platforms have a friendly interface, but which is better? Obviously, you must get one that tops the other according to you. Don’t rely entirely on reviews from other people, rather consider your first-hand experience mingling with the app/website.

You also have to take into account the time you spend on each website before you make a decision.

3. Quality of Reporting

How does the booking agency present the different tours and guides on their platform? Are they scanty and brush through important information?

An in-depth report will help you get a better view of the reservations, the policies, and anything that might add value to your trip.

4. Customer Support

It’s no doubt that both GetYourGuide and Viator have fantastic customer support teams. But you need to go a little deeper. Check for their response time, how they know their customers, how long it takes them to fix mistakes, and how far they can go to make you happy.

5. Marketing Profile

The marketing profile of the two will significantly show you how the agencies treat you in comparison to their organizers.

Check out how they run their promotions and if they are price-conscious. Do they focus on low prices but compromise on service quality?

6. Reputation

There are probably thousands of people that have used GetYourGuide and Viator before. They understand how the systems work and can give you good advice.

Look for online sites with reviews where you will find loads of information. The agency with numerous positive ratings should carry the day.

See Related: Free Printable Travel Planner

GetYourGuide and Viator Competitors

Looking beyond the usual prospects of GetYourGuide and Viator can lead to exciting discoveries. Klook, Tiqets, and Musement are just some competitors worth exploring.

These innovative competitors offer a unique take on the travel industry, honing in on specialized areas or distinctive features. Whatever your interests – from quirky adventures to hassle-free ticket booking to personalized tips – these tour operators have got you covered.

1. Klook

Klook is crushing it as a top tour provider, with 100,000+ attractions and experiences in 350+ global hotspots. What sets Klook apart? Their knack for delivering unique adventures that will make you feel like a true explorer.

Unlike GetYourGuide and Viator, Klook’s all about showing you the hidden gems and under-the-radar activities that’ll make your trip unforgettable. From foodie escapades to cultural workshops, Klook wants you to ditch the tourist traps and get lost in the local flavor of each destination.

Klook’s got the hookup on killer deals. Their emphasis on price is a significant advantage for budget travelers looking to save cash on their adventures.

Plus, their platform is super user-friendly, making finding and booking tours a breeze. And if you ever need help, their customer support is available 24/7 to keep your stress levels at an all-time low.

2. Tiqets

Tiqets is like a magical genie that grants your wish for hassle-free ticket booking to cultural hotspots across the globe. While GetYourGuide and Viator offer many activities, Tiqets is your go-to for museums, art galleries, historical landmarks, and other cultural gems.

Say goodbye to long queues and paper tickets – Tiqets has your back with its seamless user experience and skip-the-line tickets. With Tiqets, you can book your attraction tickets in advance and make the most of your time exploring the world’s wonders.

3. Musement

Musement is like your personal travel BFF. It’s a digital concierge service that helps you book all the fun stuff you want to do on your vacation, no matter where in the world you are.

With over 1000 destinations and 70 countries to choose from, you’ll never run out of things to do. Whether you’re into museums, guided tours, or food and wine experiences, Musement has got you covered. It’s like having a personal tour guide that makes you feel right at home wherever you go.

But guess what? Musement has a super cool advantage – they’re one of Google’s global partners for the launch of tours and activities in Reserve with Google.

This means you can book extraordinary experiences like guided tours and main attractions straight from Google Search, Maps, and the Assistant. And thanks to this partnership, even more people can easily access Musement’s offerings.

See Related: How to Use Google Flights to Book Cheap Flights

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