Exploring Beijing’s iconic landmarks in just two days may seem daunting, but a private tour can make all the difference. From the grand Tiananmen Square to the Forbidden City‘s imperial splendor, this expertly curated experience promises an immersive journey through China’s rich history and culture. With transportation, meals, and an English-speaking guide included, you’ll dive into the lively Hutong neighborhood, ascend the Mutianyu Great Wall, and unwind at the serene Summer Palace. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or seeking a deeper connection with the capital, this tour offers a seamless and customizable way to discover Beijing’s most captivating sights.
Good To Know
- Comprehensive two-day private tour of Beijing’s top attractions, including Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Hutong neighborhood, Mutianyu Great Wall, and Summer Palace.
- Tour includes private transportation, English-speaking guide, entrance tickets, lunch, and cable car rides, with a reserve now & pay later option.
- Explores the historical and cultural significance of each site, providing an immersive experience into China’s rich heritage.
- Offers flexibility with optional activities, such as an evening acrobatic show and a thrilling toboggan slide at the Great Wall.
- Provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring a hassle-free booking experience.
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Tour Overview
The Beijing Highlights Tour offers a comprehensive two-day exploration of the city’s top attractions. Priced from $268 per person, this private tour includes a live English-speaking guide, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now & pay later option.
Pickup from your hotel lobby is also included. Over the course of two days, you’ll visit iconic sites like Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, the Hutong area, and the Temple of Heaven.
On the second day, you’ll experience the Mutianyu Great Wall and the Summer Palace. The tour package includes transportation, entrance tickets, lunch, and cable car rides, ensuring a seamless and enriching Beijing adventure.
Itinerary Details
Over the two-day Beijing Highlights Tour, visitors will explore the city’s most iconic landmarks.
On the first day, they’ll visit Tiananmen Square to see the Tiananmen Tower, National Museum, and Great Hall of the People. Then, they’ll discover the 600-year-old Forbidden City, learning about its emperors and concubines.
After a lunch in the Hutong neighborhood, they’ll stroll around the Hou Hai lake area. An optional evening acrobatic show is also available.
The second day starts with a trip to the less crowded Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, where visitors can take a cable car or chairlift and even slide down on a toboggan.
The tour concludes with a visit to the Summer Palace, exploring its royal gardens, opera house, and the longest corridor.
Tiananmen Square Exploration
On the first day, visitors explore the vast expanse of Tiananmen Square.
They’ll see the iconic Tiananmen Tower, a national symbol, and visit the National Museum and the Great Hall of the People.
The guide shares insights into the square’s significance in Chinese history, from its role in major political events to its symbolic importance.
Visitors can wander through the open space, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere of this historic landmark.
The guide ensures they make the most of their time, providing context and pointing out key sights and features that bring the square’s rich history to life.
Forbidden City Discovery
After exploring the expansive Tiananmen Square, the tour then delves into the captivating history of the Forbidden City.
This 600-year-old royal palace offers a glimpse into the lives of China’s emperors and their elaborate court. Visitors can wander through its intricate architecture, discovering the stories and secrets hidden within its walls.
From the grand entrances to the intimate imperial gardens, the Forbidden City provides an immersive experience, allowing travelers to step back in time and gain a deeper understanding of China’s rich cultural heritage.
With the knowledgeable guide’s insights, this stopover promises to be a highlight of the two-day Beijing tour.
Hutong Neighborhood and Hou Hai Lake
The tour then whisks visitors away to the charming Hutong neighborhood, where they can enjoy the local way of life. Strolling through the narrow alleyways, guests discover quaint courtyard houses and gain insights into the customs and traditions of old Beijing. After lunch, the tour continues to the serene Hou Hai lake area, known for its lively atmosphere and vibrant culture. Visitors can explore the picturesque lakeside promenade, lined with bars, restaurants, and traditional teahouses, creating a truly authentic and immersive experience.
| Highlights | Hutong Neighborhood | Hou Hai Lake |
|---|---|---|
| Explore | Courtyard houses | Lakeside promenade |
| Discover | Local customs and traditions | Bars, restaurants, teahouses |
| Experience | Charming alleyways | Vibrant culture |
Mutianyu Great Wall Visit
Visitors then journey to the Mutianyu Great Wall, a less crowded and well-preserved section of this iconic structure.
They’ll explore the Great Wall for 2 hours, gaining insights into its remarkable history. Cable cars or chairlifts transport them up to the wall, allowing for easy access. Guests can choose to take a thrilling toboggan slide back down.
The tour includes a delicious lunch after the Great Wall visit. Throughout the experience, the knowledgeable private guide provides fascinating details, enriching guests’ understanding of this architectural wonder and its significance in Chinese history.
Summer Palace Exploration
Following the tour of the Mutianyu Great Wall, guests explore the Summer Palace, an ancient royal garden located on the outskirts of Beijing. Strolling along the palace’s iconic Long Corridor, visitors enjoy the stunning architecture and scenic landscapes. They marvel at the Marble Boat, a symbolic vessel representing the decline of the Qing dynasty, and witness the opulent Empress Dowager Cixi’s extravagant opera house. As they wander the tranquil lakes and pavilions, guests gain insights into China’s imperial past and the intrigues of court life. The Summer Palace offers a serene and picturesque conclusion to the two-day Beijing highlights tour.
| Feature | Description | Emotion |
|---|---|---|
| Long Corridor | Iconic architectural marvel | Awe |
| Marble Boat | Symbol of dynastic decline | Contemplation |
| Opera House | Empress Dowager Cixi’s extravagance | Fascination |
| Tranquil Lakes | Serene natural beauty | Relaxation |
| Pavilions | Elegant imperial structures | Appreciation |
| Insights into Past | Exploration of China’s history | Enlightenment |
Inclusions and Customization
Included in the tour package are a private air-conditioned vehicle, an English-speaking tour guide, and entrance tickets, as well as bottled water and lunch if the package tour is selected.
Visitors can customize the tour to their interests by informing the tour company in advance of any special requests. They’ll need to provide their passport number, full name, and nationality for all participants during booking.
The tour’s flexibility allows guests to tailor the experience to their preferences.
With the recommended attire of comfortable walking shoes and a passport, travelers are set to embark on an enriching exploration of Beijing’s highlights.
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- 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 Request a Different Pickup Location Other Than the Hotel Lobby?
Yes, you can request a different pickup location. The tour provider is typically flexible and can accommodate requests for alternate pickup spots, as long as they are communicated in advance during the booking process.
Is There an Option to Visit the Great Wall on the First Day?
While the standard itinerary includes visiting the Great Wall on the second day, it’s possible to customize the tour. Travelers can discuss an alternative schedule with the tour operator to visit the Great Wall on the first day if preferred.
Can I Add a Visit to the Ming Tombs or Badaling Great Wall?
Yes, you can add a visit to the Ming Tombs or Badaling Great Wall to the tour. The itinerary can be customized to your interests, so just inform the tour operator in advance of any special requests.
What Is the Dress Code for the Optional Acrobatic Show?
The dress code for the optional acrobatic show is casual. Guests can wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes, as the performance is a casual entertainment event without any specific dress requirements. No formal attire is necessary.
Can I Extend the Tour to Include the 798 Art District?
Yes, the tour can likely be extended to include the 798 Art District. Inform the tour operator in advance and they’ll work to customize the itinerary to accommodate the additional stop within the available time frame.
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The Sum Up
This private two-day Beijing tour offers an immersive experience of the city’s iconic landmarks. Visitors can explore Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, and more, with an English-speaking guide, transportation, and meals included. The tour can be customized to suit individual preferences, ensuring a personalized adventure through China’s rich history and culture.