Private Trip to Great Wall+Summer Palace With English Driver

Exploring the iconic Great Wall and the enchanting Summer Palace has never been easier with this private trip. Accompanied by an English-speaking driver, travelers can enjoy a seamless journey, round-trip transportation, and admission fees included. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking landscapes and rich history at their own pace, with optional activities like cable car and toboggan rides available. This customizable tour offers flexibility and convenience, ensuring an unforgettable experience amidst China’s cultural treasures. Whether it’s marveling at the Mutianyu Great Wall or discovering the secrets of the Summer Palace, this trip promises a remarkable…

Good To Know

This private tour offers hassle-free transportation, entrance fees, and the flexibility to explore the Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace at your own pace.
An English-speaking driver will provide round-trip transportation from various locations in Beijing to the two iconic destinations.
Visitors can enjoy optional activities like cable car rides and toboggan slides at Mutianyu Great Wall, as well as seasonal boat cruises at Summer Palace.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and offers free cancellation, making it a convenient and customizable option for visitors.
Gratuities for the driver are recommended, but a tour guide is not included, allowing for independent exploration of the attractions.

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Trip Overview

This private trip offers a comprehensive exploration of two iconic attractions in Beijing – the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall and the Summer Palace.

The 9-hour tour includes round-trip transportation, entrance fees, and a knowledgeable English-speaking driver. Guests can independently explore the less crowded Mutianyu Great Wall for around 3 hours, with optional cable car and toboggan rides.

The tour then continues to the stunning Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring historic pavilions, temples, and serene lakeside views.

Wheelchair accessibility, free cancellation, and flexible booking make this an easy and convenient way to visit these two must-see destinations in Beijing.

Inclusions

The private trip includes the entrance fee and shuttle bus ride to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Plus, the Summer Palace entrance fee is covered. Guests will have bottled water provided throughout the day.

The trip also includes a private air-conditioned vehicle and hotel pick-up and drop-off services. An English-speaking driver will be available to assist with basic communication needs.

Gratuities for the driver are recommended, though a tour guide isn’t included in the package.

Customers can check availability for desired starting times to ensure the trip fits their schedule.

Itinerary Details

Guests will be picked up from selected locations, including Beijing hotels, railway stations, Capital Airport, and Daxing Airport.

They’ll then embark on a 1.5-hour drive to the Mutianyu Great Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can explore the Great Wall independently for approximately 3 hours, with the option to ride a cable car to the top or take a thrilling toboggan ride down.

After the Great Wall, the group will drive for 1.5 hours to the Summer Palace, where they can independently explore the immensely preserved royal garden, lake, bridges, temples, and historic pavilions.

Seasonal activities like dragon boat rides are available between April and October.

Attractions at Mutianyu Great Wall

Although less crowded than other sections, the Mutianyu Great Wall offers visitors an impressive and well-preserved segment of this renowned ancient fortification.

Travelers can explore this UNESCO World Heritage site at their own pace, taking in the stunning views and architectural marvels along the way.

Key highlights include:

Skipping the crowds with a VIP fast pass
Riding the cable car up to the top for panoramic vistas
Opting for an exhilarating toboggan ride down the wall
Witnessing the Wall’s integration with the surrounding mountains

This section of the Great Wall provides an unforgettable experience, allowing visitors to connect with China’s rich history and natural landscapes.

Attractions at Summer Palace

At the Summer Palace, visitors can enjoy the grandeur and history of this meticulously preserved royal garden.

Sprawling over 2.9 square kilometers, the Summer Palace features picturesque lakes, bridges, temples, and historic pavilions.

Highlights include the Long Corridor, a 728-meter-long walkway adorned with intricate artwork, and the Marble Boat, a unique structure that symbolizes the palace’s power and wealth.

Visitors can also explore the Seventeen Arch Bridge, which offers stunning views of the palace’s architecture and natural surroundings.

With its harmonious blend of architecture, landscaping, and cultural heritage, the Summer Palace provides a serene and enlightening experience for all who visit.

Optional Extras

For a more immersive Great Wall experience, visitors can opt to ride the cable car up the mountain or thrill down on the toboggan. The cable car whisks you up the steep terrain, offering panoramic views, while the toboggan provides a thrilling descent with twists and turns.

These optional extras enhance the overall experience, allowing you to tailor your visit to your preferences. Additional activities include:

Cable car ride to the top of the Great Wall
Toboggan ride down the Great Wall
Boat cruises on the Summer Palace’s Kunming Lake (seasonal)
Photo opportunities at iconic landmarks and scenic spots

These add-ons create unforgettable memories and a personalized excursion at the renowned Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace.

Pickup and Drop-off Locations

Where will the tour pick you up?

The private tour offers convenient pickup and drop-off from selected locations in Beijing. You can be collected from your Beijing hotel, the railway station, Capital Airport, or Daxing Airport.

The driver will transport you via private air-conditioned vehicle for the 1.5-hour drive to the Mutianyu Great Wall.

After exploring the iconic UNESCO site, the driver will then take you to the Summer Palace, where you can independently discover the expansive royal gardens, lakes, and historic pavilions.

At the end of the tour, you’ll be dropped off back at your original pickup location.

Additional Information

Gratuities are recommended for the driver, who provides a hassle-free private transportation experience.

The tour doesn’t include a guide, so you’ll have the flexibility to explore the Great Wall and Summer Palace at your own pace.

Some important things to keep in mind:

Check availability for your preferred starting time.
The tour is wheelchair accessible.
Optional extras like cable car and toboggan rides are available at additional cost.
Dragon boat rides are seasonal, available between April and October.
Free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Trip?

Yes, you can bring your own food and snacks on the trip. The tour allows for personal items, so you’re free to pack a lunch, snacks, or any other refreshments you’d like to have during the excursion.

Do I Need to Tip the Driver in Addition to the Tour Price?

Yes, it’s recommended to tip the driver. The tour price does not include gratuities. A standard tip of 10-15% of the total tour price is customary for good service.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Great Wall?

The best time to visit the Great Wall is spring and fall when the weather is mild. Crowds are smaller, and you’ll enjoy stunning views without the extreme heat or cold of summer and winter.

Can I Take Photographs During the Trip?

Absolutely! Photography is permitted at both the Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace. Visitors can capture stunning views and historical landmarks throughout the trip. Just be mindful of any restricted areas or rules regarding photography.

Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary?

Yes, the itinerary can be customized. Travelers can adjust the duration and activities based on their preferences. However, modifications may incur additional fees. It’s best to communicate with the tour provider to discuss any customization needs.

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The Sum Up

This private tour offers a seamless and customizable experience to explore the iconic Mutianyu Great Wall and the enchanting Summer Palace. With round-trip transportation, entrance fees, and an English-speaking driver, it’s a convenient way to learn about China’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes at your own pace. The optional cable car and toboggan rides add an extra touch of adventure, making this an unforgettable cultural journey.