Enjoy the captivating history and cultural richness of Beijing on this comprehensive tour. Explore the iconic Forbidden City, stroll through the serene Summer Palace, and discover the spiritual significance of the Temple of Heaven. With knowledgeable guides, authentic local cuisine, and a seamless itinerary, this eight-hour adventure promises a well-rounded experience. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour offers a unique opportunity to uncover the layers of Beijing’s past and present. Dive into the details to learn how you can embark on this captivating journey.
Good To Know
- Comprehensive 8-hour tour exploring Beijing’s iconic landmarks including the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, and Temple of Heaven.
- Includes hotel pickup, guided tours, photo stops, and an authentic traditional Chinese lunch.
- Offers a guided experience at the Forbidden City, highlighting its imperial history and architectural significance.
- Provides ample time to explore the serene grounds and elegant pavilions of the Summer Palace.
- Visits the Temple of Heaven, an ancient spiritual retreat showcasing architectural genius and cultural heritage.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
Tour Overview
Offering a comprehensive exploration of Beijing’s iconic landmarks, this tour provides visitors with an opportunity to enjoy the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Priced from £101.70 per person, the tour lasts 8 hours and offers hotel pickup within the 4th ring road of downtown Beijing. Available in multiple languages, the tour features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve without upfront payment.
Highlights include the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, and Temple of Heaven, with activities ranging from guided tours and photo stops to savoring authentic local cuisine.
With private guides, transportation, and entry tickets included, this tour ensures a seamless and enriching experience for visitors.
Itinerary Details
The tour begins with pickup from the hotel lobby within the 4th ring road of Beijing downtown.
From there, visitors are taken to the Forbidden City, where they spend 3 hours exploring the imperial palace, outer court, and inner court.
After a 40-minute lunch of authentic traditional cuisine, the tour moves on to the Summer Palace, where visitors can spend 2 hours wandering the scenic lakes, pavilions, and bridges.
The final stop is the Temple of Heaven, a religious retreat and public park, where guests can spend 1 hour on a guided tour and photo stop.
The tour includes:
- Private guide
- Local lunch
- Transportation
- Admission tickets
- Pickup and drop-off
Pickup and Locations
The tour begins with pickup from the hotel lobby within the 4th ring road of Beijing downtown.
The tour covers three iconic sites in Beijing – the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace, and the Temple of Heaven.
At each location, the knowledgeable local guide provides a guided tour, sharing insights and highlighting the key landmarks.
After the Forbidden City visit, the group enjoys an authentic traditional Chinese lunch at a local restaurant.
The tour concludes with the relaxing journey back to the hotel.
Throughout the day, transportation is provided, either via private transfer or public transport, ensuring a seamless experience for the participants.
Forbidden City Highlights
The 3-hour visit to the Forbidden City allows visitors to explore this imperial palace that served as the political and ceremonial center of China for over 500 years.
The tour highlights include:
- Imperial palace, which contains over 9,000 rooms and was the exclusive domain of the emperor, his family, and his court.
- Outer Court, where the emperor conducted state affairs and ceremonies.
- Inner Court, the private living quarters of the imperial family.
- Photo stops at iconic landmarks like the Gate of Supreme Harmony and the Golden Water Bridges.
During the guided tour, guests will learn about the rich history and significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Lunch and Cuisine
After the 3-hour tour of the Forbidden City, visitors enjoy an authentic traditional Chinese lunch at a local restaurant, which lasts approximately 40 minutes.
The meal features a selection of Cantonese, Sichuan, and Shanghainese dishes, showcasing the diverse culinary traditions of China.
Diners can expect to savor fragrant steamed rice, savory stir-fried vegetables, tender braised meats, and perhaps even regional specialties like Peking duck.
The lunch provides a delightful respite and an opportunity to refuel before continuing the exploration of Beijing’s iconic landmarks at the Summer Palace and Temple of Heaven.
Summer Palace Highlights
Once the group departs the Forbidden City, the next captivating stop on the tour is the Summer Palace. This former imperial retreat is renowned for its serene lakes, elegant pavilions, and charming bridges.
Visitors will have 2 hours to explore the grounds and admire the stunning architecture. Highlights include:
- The Long Corridor, a 728-meter-long covered walkway adorned with intricate paintings
- The Marble Boat, a whimsical structure designed to resemble a sailing vessel
- The Seventeen Arch Bridge, a picturesque crossing over Kunming Lake
- The Empress Cixi’s marble boat, a testament to her lavish tastes
With ample time to wander and learn from the knowledgeable guide, the Summer Palace promises an immersive and memorable experience.
Temple of Heaven Highlights
Towering above the bustling city, the Temple of Heaven stands as a testament to ancient Chinese architectural genius and spiritual devotion.
Visitors will spend an hour exploring this serene religious retreat and public park. The centerpiece is the iconic Triple-Gabled Hall, where emperors once performed elaborate rituals to pray for good harvests.
Surrounding it are lush gardens, elegant bridges, and peaceful walkways. Tourists can marvel at the intricate carved details and marvel at the harmonious blend of nature and architecture.
The Temple of Heaven offers a tranquil respite from the hustle and bustle of Beijing, allowing travelers to connect with the country’s rich cultural heritage.
Inclusions and Information
The tour package includes a private guide, an authentic local lunch, and all necessary transportation and entry tickets. Plus, hotel pickup and drop-off are provided for convenience.
The tour also offers:
- Flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
- Secure payment with the "Reserve now & pay later" option
- Guided tours at the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, and Temple of Heaven
- Passport or ID card as the only required item to bring
Participants should be aware of mandatory security checks at entry points, which may result in waiting times.
The tour operates during inclement weather unless government restrictions are in place.
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- Great Wall at Gubeikou and Jinshanling Private Sunset Tour
- Mutianyu Great Wall Private Layover Guided Tour
- Private Mutianyu Great Wall Day Tour From Beijing City/Airport
- Private Arrival Transfer: Beijing Airport (PEK or PKX) to Hotel
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
The tour details don’t mention if travelers can bring their own food and drinks. It’s best to check with the tour provider beforehand to understand the policy on outside food and beverages during the tour.
Is There an Option to Visit These Sites on My Own?
Yes, travelers can visit the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, and Temple of Heaven on their own. However, booking a guided tour can provide more in-depth information and ensure a seamless experience at these popular attractions.
What Is the Dress Code for This Tour?
There is no specific dress code for this tour. Visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable walking shoes and dress for the current weather conditions, as the tour will involve extensive walking outdoors at historical sites.
Do I Need to Know Mandarin to Communicate With the Guide?
No, you don’t need to know Mandarin to communicate with the guide. The tour offers multilingual guides, including English, so you can comfortably interact with them even if you don’t speak the local language.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?
The tour company offers discounted rates for students and seniors, typically around 10-15% off the regular price. Guests should inquire about any available discounts when booking the tour.
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The Sum Up
This comprehensive Beijing tour provides an immersive experience of the city’s rich history and culture. Visitors can explore the iconic Forbidden City, relax in the serene Summer Palace, and appreciate the spiritual significance of the Temple of Heaven. With knowledgeable guides, authentic local cuisine, and a well-rounded itinerary, this tour offers a perfect blend of sightseeing and cultural appreciation for an unforgettable day in the capital.