The Forbidden City in Beijing is a must-visit destination for any traveler to China. With two options – a self-guided entry reservation or a guided tour – visitors can tailor their experience to their preferences and budget. Whether you opt for the independence of exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site on your own or the insights of a knowledgeable guide, the Forbidden City promises an immersive journey into China’s imperial past. With flexible booking and conveniently located starting points, this iconic landmark is within reach for those seeking to uncover the rich history and architectural wonders that lie within its gates.
Good To Know
- Booking through the platform offers up to 5% savings on Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square guided tours priced between €8.33 and €8.77 per person.
- Tours last 3.5 to 5 hours with live English-speaking guides, providing insights into the Ming and Qing dynasties.
- The "Reserve now, pay later" option and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior offer convenience and flexibility.
- Passports must be submitted to the tour provider by 8 PM the day before, and a WhatsApp-based communication channel is required.
- Guided tours include access to Tiananmen Square and key Forbidden City landmarks, such as the Hall of Supreme Harmony and Imperial Garden.
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Reservation Options and Pricing
Although the Forbidden City tour can be booked directly, reserving through the platform provides several advantages.
Customers can save up to 5%, with prices ranging from €8.77 to €8.33 per person. Plus, the "reserve now, pay later" option allows booking without upfront payment.
On top of that, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Notably, there’s a 60 CNY appointment service fee per person required onsite for Forbidden City entrance, while the Tiananmen entrance fee is covered by the appointment fee.
Guided Tour Details
The guided Forbidden City tours typically range from 3.5 to 5 hours in duration and feature a live English-speaking guide.
Travelers can choose from two tour options, one starting at 8:00 AM and the other at 12:00 PM.
These small-group tours provide hassle-free entry and organized tickets, ensuring smooth access to both the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square.
Visitors will have the opportunity to explore iconic sites like the Hall of Supreme Harmony, Imperial Garden, and the Qianmen Gate, while learning about the rich history of the Ming and Qing dynasties from the knowledgeable guide.
Tour Highlights
The Forbidden City tour options provide visitors with the opportunity to explore Tiananmen Square and the iconic landmarks within the Forbidden City itself.
Through the Travel Agency Pass, visitors can quickly enter Tiananmen Square and view key features like the Qianmen Gate, Monument to the People’s Heroes, and the Great Hall of the People.
Inside the Forbidden City, the guided tours grant access to the Hall of Supreme Harmony, Hall of Central Harmony, Hall of Preserved Harmony, Six Western Palaces, Imperial Garden, and the Palace of Terrestrial Tranquility.
Throughout the experience, the knowledgeable guides provide insights into the Ming and Qing Dynasties that shaped the rich history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Important Information
GetYourGuide QR code serves as a reservation confirmation, not an entry ticket, so actual tickets are provided after booking.
Participants must submit their passports to the tour provider by 8 PM the day before the tour. WhatsApp is required for communication and instructions from the tour company.
Visitors should note that the Forbidden City is closed on Mondays, except during Chinese national holidays.
Following these simple guidelines ensures a seamless experience for exploring the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square with the guided tour.
Customer Reviews and Feedback
Based on the 48 reviews, the overall rating for the Forbidden City tour options is 4.3 out of 5. Customers have provided positive feedback, highlighting the ease of access, effective communication from the provider, and the knowledgeable tour guides. Specific praise was given for the timely reservations and efficient entry without waiting. The table below provides a further breakdown of the customer reviews.
| Criteria | 5 Star | 4 Star | 3 Star |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Experience | 29 | 12 | 7 |
| Value for Money | 27 | 15 | 6 |
| Customer Service | 31 | 13 | 4 |
Booking Process
Conveniently, the booking process for the Forbidden City tour options offers multiple flexible options.
Customers can save up to 5% by booking in advance, with prices ranging from €8.33 to €8.77 per person.
Alternatively, they can reserve their spot without upfront payment and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
The tour also includes a 60 CNY per person appointment service fee, which covers entrance fees for the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square.
With these convenient booking options, travelers can easily secure their spot and explore the historic landmarks with ease.
Tour Itinerary
Exploring the historic Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square is the highlight of the guided tour.
The tour duration ranges from 3.5 to 5 hours, led by an English-speaking guide. Visitors can choose from morning or afternoon timeslots, with hassle-free entry and organized tickets.
In Tiananmen Square, they’ll get quick access via a travel agency pass, viewing the Qianmen Gate, Monument to the People’s Heroes, and the Great Hall of the People.
Inside the Forbidden City, the tour covers the Hall of Supreme Harmony, Hall of Central Harmony, Hall of Preserved Harmony, Six Western Palaces, Imperial Garden, and the Palace of Terrestrial Tranquility, providing insights into the Ming and Qing dynasties.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take Photos Inside the Forbidden City?
Yes, visitors can generally take photos inside the Forbidden City. However, there may be some restrictions on photography in certain areas, so it’s best to check with the tour guide or staff on-site for any specific rules.
Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?
The tour is wheelchair accessible. The guided tours provide hassle-free entry and organized assistance for visitors with mobility needs to explore the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square without difficulty.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Water?
You’re welcome to bring your own food and water on the tour. The guided tour doesn’t provide any food or drinks, so bringing your own is recommended to stay hydrated and energized throughout the experience.
Do I Need to Wear Specific Attire?
You don’t need to wear any specific attire to visit the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square. Casual, comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended for the sightseeing tour, which involves a significant amount of walking.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
There are no age restrictions for this tour. People of all ages can participate, though the tour may not be suitable for very young children who may have difficulty keeping up with the group. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
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The Sum Up
The Forbidden City Tiananmen tour offers travelers a chance to explore China’s imperial past. With flexible reservation options, knowledgeable guides, and a hassle-free experience, visitors can explore iconic landmarks like Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City itself. Whether opting for a self-guided or guided tour, this UNESCO World Heritage site promises an enriching and memorable experience for those seeking to uncover the mysteries of China’s dynastic history.