Beijing’s city tours cut through the tourist confusion and deliver memorable experiences. The best options start with private Forbidden City tours, where expert guides reveal the secrets of China’s imperial past. For maximum value, choose the combination tours hitting the Mutianyu Great Wall, Temple of Heaven, and Summer Palace all in one efficient day. Small-group tours (8 people max) are my favorite – you get personal attention without the high price of private tours.
I especially love the early morning Forbidden City tours that dodge the crowds, and the sunset Great Wall visits that avoid the midday heat. The local guides on these routes know exactly when and where to be for the best photos and quietest moments.
Check our tested-and-approved Beijing tours below for the perfect match to your travel style.
Key Points
- For an in-depth exploration of Beijing’s iconic landmarks, consider a private walking tour of the Forbidden City, rated 4.9 stars from 284 reviews.
- Combine visits to the Mutianyu Great Wall and Forbidden City on a 9-hour private tour, with flexibility and wheelchair accessibility, priced from $111 to $123.33 per person.
- Enjoy pre-reserved tickets and access to key sites like Qianmen Gate and Tiananmen Square on a guided Forbidden City tour, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Explore the Summer Palace, Forbidden City, and Temple of Heaven on a comprehensive private city tour, with inclusions like Chinese lunch and traditional activities.
- Small group tours offer a personalized experience, with a maximum of 10 participants, 100% recommendation rate, and optional add-ons for additional attractions.
4-Hour Private Beijing Walking Tour of the Forbidden City
For those seeking an immersive exploration of Beijing’s most iconic landmark, the 4-Hour Private Beijing Walking Tour of the Forbidden City offers an unparalleled experience.
This private walking tour provides visitors with in-depth insights into the Forbidden City’s rich history and cultural significance. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, you will explore Tiananmen Square and navigate the expansive Forbidden City complex, including highlights like the Meridian Gate and the Hall of Great Harmony.
With pre-paid entrance tickets and hotel pickup included, this tour streamlines the experience, allowing guests to maximize their time and fully enjoy the UNESCO World Heritage site.
Positive reviews praise the guides’ expertise and ability to tailor the tour to individual interests.
Read our full review: 4-Hour Private Beijing Walking Tour of the Forbidden City Review
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Beijing: Mutianyu Great Wall and Forbidden City Private Tour
This comprehensive 9-hour private tour takes visitors on an unforgettable journey to two of Beijing’s UNESCO World Heritage sites – the Mutianyu Great Wall and the Forbidden City.
Priced from $123.33 to $111.00 per person, the tour includes admission fees, hotel pickup and drop-off, and a professional English-speaking guide.
Explore the less crowded, fully restored Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, and marvel at the grandeur of the Forbidden City, the largest ancient palace complex.
With a 4.9/5 rating from over 12 reviews, this tour offers exceptional service and an immersive experience, including activities like cable car rides and toboggan descents.
Wheelchair accessible and with a flexible cancellation policy, it’s an ideal way to discover Beijing’s iconic landmarks.
Read our full review: Beijing: Mutianyu Great Wall and Forbidden City Private Tour Review
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Private 4-Hour In Depth Walking Tour to the Forbidden City
With a 4.9-star rating from 284 reviews, this private 4-hour walking tour of the Forbidden City in Beijing offers an in-depth exploration of this iconic UNESCO World Heritage site.
Priced at just $19.80 per person, the tour includes a knowledgeable private guide, entry tickets, and transportation to the Forbidden City.
Praised for their expertise and personalized service, the tour guides bring the rich history of this former imperial palace to life.
Wheelchair and stroller accessible, the tour requires a moderate fitness level, with children required to be accompanied by an adult.
Guests must book at least one week in advance to secure the Forbidden City tickets.
Read our full review: Private 4-Hour In Depth Walking Tour to the Forbidden City Review
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Forbidden City Tiananmen Enter Reservation or Guided Tour
Travelers can easily access Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City on this guided tour, which provides pre-reserved entry tickets and a knowledgeable local guide.
Priced at $34.12 per person, this 4-hour experience offers two convenient start times at 9am and 12pm. Guests can expect to visit iconic sites like the Qianmen Gate, Monument to the People’s Heroes, and various halls within the Forbidden City.
The tour covers the history of the Ming and Qing dynasties. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, this tour provides flexibility and value.
Positive reviews highlight the efficient ticket service and informative experiences provided by the well-prepared guides.
Read our full review: Forbidden City Tiananmen Enter Reservation or Guided Tour Review
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Private Mutianyu Great Wall Day Tour From Beijing City/Airport
A private Mutianyu Great Wall day tour from Beijing allows travelers to visit the iconic landmark at a relaxed pace.
This 121-reviewed tour boasts a 100% recommendation rate from past visitors. It takes guests to the less-crowded Mutianyu section, built in the 6th century.
The tour includes cable car rides, lunch, and round-trip transportation from your hotel or the airport. An English-speaking guide provides historical insights, while additional language services are available for an extra fee.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour offers flexibility, local dining, and stunning views of the Great Wall. Gratuity for the guide and driver is optional.
Read our full review: Private Mutianyu Great Wall Day Tour From Beijing City/Airport Review
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Private City Tour Of Beijing Including Entrance Ticket
Exploring Beijing’s iconic landmarks and cultural highlights, this private city tour offers a comprehensive sightseeing experience.
Visiting the Summer Palace, Forbidden City, and Temple of Heaven, guests enjoy the city’s rich history and architecture. An included Chinese lunch and opportunities to participate in traditional activities like Tai Chi or a tea ceremony enrich the cultural experience.
With private transportation and an English-speaking guide, the tour provides a seamless and personalized exploration of Beijing.
While the Silk Museum and Tea House may present high-priced shopping temptations, the tour’s overall value and quality are highly praised by past travelers.
Read our full review: Private City Tour Of Beijing Including Entrance Ticket Review
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Beijing Essential Full-Day Tour Including Great Wall at Badaling, Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square
This Beijing Essential Full-Day Tour takes travelers on a comprehensive exploration of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
Visitors will start at Tiananmen Square, learning about China’s communist history before delving into the Forbidden City’s imperial past.
The highlight is the stunning Great Wall at Badaling, where guests can ascend for panoramic views.
Conveniently, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, and a Chinese lunch.
While visitors can’t use wheelchairs, the tour is stroller-accessible.
Advance booking is recommended, as the Forbidden City may be sold out.
Read our full review: Beijing Essential Full-Day Tour Including Great Wall at Badaling, Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square Review
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Beijing: Forbidden City and Tian’anmen Square Tour
Beijing’s Forbidden City and Tian’anmen Square Tour offers visitors a captivating exploration of the city’s rich history and iconic landmarks. Priced from $39.83 per person, the tour provides several options to suit different budgets and interests.
Highlights include exploring Tian’anmen Square, the Forbidden City, and optional add-ons like the Temple of Heaven and Mutianyu Great Wall. Guided tours ensure an in-depth understanding of the sites’ significance.
With high customer ratings, flexible booking, and free cancellation, this tour delivers exceptional value. Restrictions apply, but with the right preparations, visitors can enjoy Beijing’s remarkable history and architecture during this 4-9 hour experience.
Read our full review: Beijing: Forbidden City and Tian’anmen Square Tour Review
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Small Group Full-Day Tour of Beijing City, No Shopping
Travelers seeking a comprehensive yet time-efficient exploration of Beijing’s iconic landmarks can opt for the Small Group Full-Day Tour of Beijing City, No Shopping.
Boasting an impressive 100% recommendation rate from 87 travelers, this small group tour (maximum 10 people) offers a hassle-free experience, with hotel pick-up and drop-off, an air-conditioned minivan, and an English-speaking guide.
The itinerary covers top attractions like the Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven, with adjustments made as needed to account for factors like traffic.
Meals, gratuities, and even cable car fees at the Great Wall are included in the price, which starts at $129 per person.
Positive reviews highlight the tour’s knowledgeable guides and effective planning assistance.
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Beijing: Forbidden City & Tiananmen Square Optional Tours
Exploring the iconic landmarks of Beijing, the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square, has become a must-do experience for many visitors.
Travelers can now enjoy guided tours of these historic sites, with options ranging from private tours with hotel pickup to group tours with fixed meeting points.
The tours cover the 1-hour Tiananmen Square and 2-hour Forbidden City, with an opportunity to visit the Temple of Heaven or Summer Palace.
Guests can save up to 10% on the ticket price, which starts from €10.28 per person.
The tours feature live guides in multiple languages, wheelchair accessibility, and fast-entry passes to avoid queues.
Travelers must bring their passport or ID, comfortable clothes, and adhere to the tour’s rules and regulations.
Read our full review: Beijing: Forbidden City & Tiananmen Square Optional Tours Review
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Beijing Private Tour: 2 Days Forbidden City and Mutianyu Great Wall VIP Tour
Visitors seeking an immersive exploration of Beijing’s iconic landmarks can opt for the 2-day private Beijing Forbidden City and Mutianyu Great Wall VIP Tour.
Priced from €357.72 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive experience, including visits to the Forbidden City and the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall.
Boasting 146 reviews with 100% traveler recommendation, the tour features professional English, Spanish, Russian, and German-speaking guides, who are praised for their knowledge and assistance.
Travelers appreciate the seamless transportation, thoughtful inclusions like cable car/chairlift and toboggan rides, and delicious local cuisine served during the tour.
Read our full review: Beijing Private Tour: 2 Days Forbidden City and Mutianyu Great Wall VIP Tour Review
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From Beijing: 2-Day Small Group City Tour
Setting out on a comprehensive exploration of Beijing’s iconic landmarks, the 2-Day Small Group City Tour offers travelers an immersive experience.
Priced from $340 per person, this tour provides a personalized small-group setting to visit the Summer Palace, Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven.
Day two is dedicated to experiencing the majestic Great Wall.
Inclusions like English-speaking guides, transportation, entrance fees, and meals ensure a hassle-free journey.
Flexibility is key, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, and travelers must provide their hotel details and passport information for booking.
Read our full review: From Beijing: 2-Day Small Group City Tour Review
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4-Hour Mini Group Discovery Forbidden City Tour With Hotel Pickup
For those seeking an immersive exploration of Beijing’s iconic Forbidden City, the 4-Hour Mini Group Discovery Forbidden City Tour with Hotel Pickup offers a compelling experience.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, this tour provides an intimate and informative journey through the palace complex. Travelers will be escorted by a professional historian guide, who’s praised for their extensive knowledge, engaging storytelling, and ability to connect with the group.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, Forbidden City entrance tickets, and all necessary taxes and gratuities. Wheelchair users can also participate, as the surfaces are accessible.
At just $73.32 per person, this tour is a fantastic value for exploring one of China’s most significant historical sites.
Read our full review: 4-Hour Mini Group Discovery Forbidden City Tour With Hotel Pickup Review
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Beijing: Highlights of the Forbidden City Walking Tour
The “Beijing: Highlights of the Forbidden City Walking Tour” offers an immersive exploration of the iconic Forbidden City.
The 4-8 hour private walking tour provides a comprehensive look at the historical site, including a 2-hour guided tour and visits to the imperial garden. Priced from $68.52 per person, the tour allows for flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Customers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, who bring the Forbidden City’s stories to life.
With optional add-ons like Tiananmen Square, this tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to discover the heart of Beijing’s cultural and political legacy.
Read our full review: Beijing: Highlights of the Forbidden City Walking Tour Review
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Great Wall & Forbidden City Layover Small Group Tour (9AM-5PM)
Offering a comprehensive exploration of Beijing’s renowned attractions, the “Great Wall & Forbidden City Layover Small Group Tour (9AM-5PM)” provides the perfect solution for travelers with limited time.
Covering the iconic Mutianyu Great Wall and the magnificent Forbidden City, this tour maximizes sightseeing in a single day. Lauded by travelers, the tour features personalized service, comfortable transportation, and included entrance fees.
While meals and some activities aren’t covered, the well-planned itinerary and knowledgeable guide ensure an enriching experience.
With flexible cancellation and rescheduling policies, this tour caters to diverse travel plans, making it an excellent choice for visitors seeking to make the most of their Beijing layover.
Read our full review: Great Wall & Forbidden City Layover Small Group Tour (9AM-5PM) Review
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Beijing: Forbidden City, Summer Palace & Heaven Temple Tour
Visiting the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, and Temple of Heaven provides an immersive journey through Beijing’s imperial heritage.
This 8-hour tour includes private transportation, local lunch, and entry tickets to these iconic sites. Guests will explore the Forbidden City’s outer and inner courts, admire the lakes and pavilions of the Summer Palace, and visit the Temple of Heaven grounds.
With a private guide fluent in multiple languages, travelers can dive deep into the history and significance of these landmarks. The tour is suitable for first-time visitors and operates rain or shine, though security checks may cause delays.
Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance qualify for a full refund, and no upfront payment is required to reserve a spot.
Read our full review: Beijing: Forbidden City, Summer Palace & Heaven Temple Tour Review
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Mini Group: Beijing Forbidden City Tour With Great Wall Hiking at Mutianyu
This meticulously curated tour provides an immersive exploration of two of Beijing’s most iconic landmarks – the Forbidden City and the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall.
Rated 5.0 out of 343 reviews, this full-day experience is recommended by 98% of travelers and boasts a Badge of Excellence.
With a maximum group size of 15, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, admission tickets, bottled water, lunch, and even round-way cable car or toboggan access at the Great Wall.
Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides, well-organized itinerary, and delicious meals.
For those with limited time in Beijing, this tour offers an efficient and highly-rated way to see key attractions.
Read our full review: Mini Group: Beijing Forbidden City Tour With Great Wall Hiking at Mutianyu Review
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Beijing: Forbidden City Walking Tour With Entry Tickets
Exploring the grandeur of Beijing’s Forbidden City has never been easier with this immersive walking tour. For just $10.80 per person, visitors can embark on a 4-6 hour guided journey through this historical wonder.
The tour includes a 1-hour visit to Tiananmen Square and a 3-hour guided exploration of the Forbidden City’s major buildings and Imperial Garden. Knowledgeable English-speaking guides bring the site’s rich history to life with engaging commentary.
Private and small group options are available, with hotel pickup included. Wheelchair-accessible tours cater to all visitors.
Guests are advised to bring their passports and comfortable shoes, as this tour isn’t suitable for certain age groups or those with mobility issues.
Read our full review: Beijing: Forbidden City Walking Tour With Entry Tickets Review
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Private Forbidden City and Mutianyu Great Wall Day Tour
Why not experience Beijing’s top attractions in one convenient day tour?
This private full-day trip combines visits to Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Mutianyu Great Wall. With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore these iconic landmarks at your own pace.
Enjoy round-trip cable car or chairlift rides and an optional toboggan descent at the Great Wall. The tour includes hotel pickup, lunch, and all entrance fees, making it a hassle-free way to see the highlights.
With a 100% traveler recommendation and 5.0 overall rating, this is an excellent choice for making the most of your time in Beijing.
Read our full review: Private Forbidden City and Mutianyu Great Wall Day Tour Review
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Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace&Forbidden City Private Tour
Spend a captivating day exploring Beijing’s renowned landmarks on this private tour.
You’ll visit Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, and the Summer Palace. With a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, you’ll learn about the historical significance and cultural traditions of these iconic sites.
Enjoy fast-track access to the Forbidden City and explore the palace’s courtyards, halls, and imperial gardens. At the Temple of Heaven, stroll through the peaceful gardens and discover the ceremonial buildings used by Ming and Qing emperors.
The Summer Palace, one of China’s most beautiful imperial gardens, offers insights into the Qing Dynasty. This comprehensive tour provides excellent value, with hotel pickup, lunch, transportation, and entrance fees included.
Read our full review: Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace&Forbidden City Private Tour Review
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The Sum Up
Beijing offers an array of engaging city tours to explore its iconic landmarks. From the majestic Forbidden City to the stunning Great Wall, visitors can enjoy the city’s rich history and culture. Whether you prefer a private guided tour or a small group experience, there’s an option to suit your interests and budget. With so much to see and do, Beijing is a must-visit destination for any traveler.