15 Top Tours In Beijing (With Reviews & Prices)

Discover the best tours in Beijing—from climbing the Great Wall to exploring the Forbidden City and savoring local cuisine. Find your perfect experience here.

Beijing is a city where history, culture, and modern life collide in a way that keeps travelers enthralled. Its vast square footage, iconic landmarks, and vibrant neighborhoods make it uniquely suited for a wide variety of tours. Whether you’re drawn to the grandeur of the Great Wall or eager to walk through the forbidden city, the options are plentiful and thoughtfully curated. Our picks include everything from comprehensive two-day adventures to intimate food tours in the ancient hutongs—each designed to give you an authentic experience. For example, the Mutianyu Great Wall Tours with custom options let you skip the lines and explore at your own pace, while the Forbidden City walking tour offers rich stories behind its ancient halls. With so many choices, there’s something for every style of traveler.

Quick Overview

Beijing’s top tours include day trips to the Mutianyu Great Wall, guided walks through the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square, and immersive food and beer adventures in the hutongs. Many tours include skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and transport, making your visit smoother and more enjoyable. Prices range from budget-friendly options under $20, to private tours costing over $130. Some tours are perfect for history buffs, while others cater to foodies or those with limited time. For a full list of options, check out the complete list of tours.

1. From Beijing: Mutianyu Great Wall Tours with Options

From Beijing: Mutianyu Great Wall Tours With Options

At number 1, this flexible, highly-rated tour offers everything you could want to experience at the Great Wall of China. Starting at just $23 per person, it includes VIP entry, skip-the-line access, and ample time (4-5 hours) to explore without feeling rushed. The tour features a mobile shuttle service and a village-style buffet at the Mubus Restaurant, plus the option to upgrade your experience with various add-ons, like hiking or overnight stays. Guests consistently praise the guide’s friendly demeanor and practical tips, especially about finding quieter spots on the wall and navigating local vendors. The tour’s balance of structured sightseeing and free time makes it ideal for first-timers as well as seasoned travelers. Bottom line: a great value that combines comfort, flexibility, and local flavor.

2. Beijing: Forbidden City Walking Tour with Entry Tickets

Beijing: Forbidden City Walking Tour With Entry Tickets

On our list at number 2, this affordable, comprehensive tour offers a deep dive into Beijing’s most famous palace complex. For only $14, you’ll enjoy skip-the-line entrance, a guided walk through the Forbidden City, and live English commentary. The tour provides a perfect overview of the Ming and Qing dynasties, with enough time to appreciate the stunning architecture and historical significance. A key plus is the timed entry, which saves hours waiting in line, and the option to include a visit to the Imperial Garden. Reviewers highlight guides like Jily and John, who blend storytelling with detailed insights. This tour is especially suited for those on a budget who want a quality experience without sacrificing depth. Bottom line: excellent value for your money, perfect for history and culture lovers.

3. Beijing: Tian’anmen Square, Forbidden City Tours w/ Options

Beijing: Tian'anmen Square, Forbidden City Tours w/ Options

Number 3 is a full-featured tour that combines the iconic Tiananmen Square with the Forbidden City. Priced at $17, it offers optional extensions like visits to the Summer Palace or Temple of Heaven, making it adaptable to your interests. This guided experience includes priority access, so you’ll avoid long lines and maximize your sightseeing time. The guides bring the sites to life with stories from Chinese history, and you’ll learn about the emperors, political upheavals, and cultural traditions that shaped Beijing. Guests note the smooth logistics and expert commentary, making it great for first-time visitors who want an organized, yet immersive experience. Bottom line: a well-rounded tour that covers the essentials with flexibility.

4. Beijing Hutong Walking Food and Beer Tour at Hidden Restaurants

Beijing Hutong Walking Food and Beer Tour at Hidden Restaurants

Number 4 on our list is a delight for food lovers. For $80, this small-group tour explores the historic hutongs—narrow alleys that define Beijing’s old city—visiting family-run restaurants and homes. The itinerary includes local hotpot, noodles, beef buns, and spring pancakes, all served in authentic settings. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you get insider access to hidden eateries not found on the usual tourist trail, with plenty of personal attention. Reviewers praise the friendly hosts and the chance to sample authentic flavors in a relaxed atmosphere. Ideal for those wanting to connect with Beijing’s local food culture and enjoy a more intimate experience. Bottom line: a tasty way to see old Beijing and sample its best dishes.

5. Mutianyu Great Wall & Summer Palace Excursion: Group/Private Options

All Inclusive Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Private Day Tour

Number 5 is a comprehensive private day trip at $124.20 per person. It includes round-trip hotel transfers, guided visits to the Mutianyu Great Wall, with cable car and toboggan options, plus a trip to the Summer Palace. The tour is flexible, allowing you to customize your day with private guides and even extend to other attractions like the Olympic Park. Guests rave about the knowledgeable guides and smooth logistics, with the lunch included making the trip truly hassle-free. The mutual praise from reviews highlights the personalized service and the quality of the experience. This tour suits travelers who prefer a more private, tailored experience with the comfort of door-to-door service. Bottom line: excellent value for a full-day, private adventure.

6. Mubus: Mutianyu Great Wall Bus Tour with Summer Palace Options

Mubus: Mutianyu Great Wall Bus Tour (8:00am & 10:00am)

Coming in at number 6, this budget-friendly shuttle service at only $20 includes entry tickets and an experienced guide. Departing at 8 or 10 am, you’ll have 4-5 hours to explore the Mutianyu section, with cable car options available. The tour features complimentary tea, snacks, and luggage storage, making it a convenient, no-fuss day. Reviewers highlight the well-organized nature and knowledgeable staff, while appreciating the no-hassle logistics. It’s best suited for travelers who want a cost-effective way to visit the Great Wall without extra frills. For a quick, reliable trip, this is a perfect pick. Bottom line: great for budget travelers who value simplicity.

7. Private Beijing Walking Tour of the Forbidden City with 7 Options

4-Hour Private Beijing Walking Tour of the Forbidden City

Number 7 offers a personalized half-day tour at $75.68 per person. It features customizable options, from standard guided visits to private tours with hotel pickup. The guide will take you through Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, focusing on the highlights and allowing for tailored interests. Guests love guides like Lily and Cindy for their deep knowledge and friendly approach. The flexible itinerary means you can focus on architecture, history, or hidden stories, making it ideal for travelers wanting a bespoke experience. Bottom line: a personalized tour perfect for those who want attention and flexibility.

8. Beijing: Mutianyu Great Wall & Summer Palace Day Tour

Beijing: Mutianyu Great Wall & Summer Palace Day Tour

Number 8 combines two iconic sites in a full-day adventure for $29. It includes transport, tickets, and around 4 hours at the Great Wall plus 3 hours at the Summer Palace. The comfortable bus makes the logistics easy, and guests mention the expert guides and smooth transfers. The tour is well-paced and avoids the rush often associated with larger group trips. The option to see the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube adds a nice touch for Olympic fans. It’s ideal for first-timers who want to hit the highlights efficiently. Bottom line: a practical, value-packed way to see two top sights in one day.

9. Mutianyu Great Wall All-inclusive Private Tour with Options

Mutianyu Great Wall All-inclusive Private Tour with Options

Number 9 is a luxury private tour at $130, featuring round-trip hotel transfers, a personal guide, and lunch with drinks. Arriving at the Mutianyu section, you’ll get help buying tickets, exploring the defensive towers, and taking in the scenery. The personalized service makes this perfect for travelers seeking a customized experience without the hassle of planning. The reviews praise the knowledgeable guide, and the quality of the included lunch. It’s best suited for those who want a private, all-inclusive day with plenty of flexibility. Bottom line: a top-tier experience for comfort and exclusivity.

10. Forbidden City & Tian’anmen Square Small Group Tours w/ Ticket

Forbidden City & Tian'anmen Square Tickets and Tours

Number 10 offers a small-group experience for just $11.97, ideal for budget travelers. It includes skip-the-line access to both Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City with expert guides sharing stories about emperors and political upheaval. The tour covers the main highlights and ensures you avoid long queues. Reviews mention the friendly guides and the efficiency of the setup. It’s perfect if you want an in-depth look with a tight schedule. Bottom line: excellent for budget-conscious travelers who want depth and convenience.

11. Mini Group Discovery Forbidden City Tour with Hotel Pickup

Mini Group Discovery Forbidden City Tour with Hotel Pickup option

Number 11 is a small, intimate tour at $36. per person, focusing on the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square. It includes hotel pickup, skip-the-line tickets, and a guide sharing stories of imperial life. Guests rave about the personalized attention and smooth logistics, especially with guides like Sofia and Marco. This tour is suited for travelers seeking a more relaxed pace with added comfort. It’s great for those who want to maximize time and avoid crowds while still covering the main attractions. Bottom line: a thoughtfully paced tour for a more personal experience.

12. Beijing: Tianmen Square, Forbidden City & Royal Museum Tours

Beijing: Tianmen Square, Forbidden City & Royal Museum Tours

Number 12 provides a comprehensive experience at just $4.37, including tickets to major sites like Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and optional Royal Treasures Museum. Perfect for travelers who want a broad overview with easy logistics. The multi-site itinerary makes it ideal for those eager to cover multiple highlights in one day. Reviewers mention the convenient meeting point and organized tickets. Best suited for first-time visitors on a tight schedule. Bottom line: an affordable, all-in-one experience that packs a punch.

13. Beijing: Top 6 Highlights All Inclusive 2-Day Private Tour

Beijing: Top 6 Highlights All Inclusive 2-Day Private Tour

Number 13 offers a comprehensive two-day private package for $330. It includes Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Mutianyu Great Wall, lunch, and hotel transfers. This all-in-one tour is perfect for first-timers wanting to see major sights comfortably without planning each detail. The flexibility to upgrade and attend an evening show adds value. Reviews highlight the expert guides and seamless logistics, making it a worry-free experience. It suits travelers who prefer private, hassle-free sightseeing. Bottom line: ideal for those wanting an in-depth, well-organized introduction to Beijing.

14. Beijing: Forbidden City and Tian’anmen Square Walking Tour

Beijing: Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square Walking Tour

Number 14 is a guided walking experience at $4.37, lasting about 3.5-4.5 hours. It includes guaranteed entry to the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square, with options for a private tour. Highlights include visiting key palaces and learning stories of imperial China. Reviewers like Vanessa and Linda appreciate guides who bring the sites’ stories alive. It’s suitable for travelers who want a focused, in-depth visit with minimal fuss. The small group format allows for more personal interaction. Bottom line: a budget-friendly, educational tour ideal for history lovers.

15. Mini Group: Beijing Forbidden City Tour with Great Wall Hiking at Mutianyu

Mini Group: Beijing Forbidden City Tour with Great Wall Hiking at Mutianyu

Rounding out the list at number 15, this small-group tour combines skip-the-line access to the Forbidden City with hiking along the Great Wall for $159. It’s designed for travelers who want to maximize their experience without the crowds. Starting early, you’ll visit Tiananmen Square, explore the Palace Museum, then hike the Mutianyu section with photo ops along the way. Reviewers mention well-organized logistics and the value of combining these iconic sites in one day. It’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with some walking and looking for a more in-depth, personal experience. Bottom line: a great choice for those wanting a full, personal day.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Beijing

When selecting your tour, consider your budget, how much time you have, and what interests excite you most. If you want a hassle-free, all-inclusive experience, the Mutianyu Great Wall & Summer Palace Day Tour or the All-inclusive Private Tour offer excellent value. For history and architecture buffs, guided Forbidden City tours like the private options deliver rich storytelling. Food lovers should try the Hutong Food Tour, which immerses you in local flavors and culture.

If you’re tight on time but want the essentials, the Tiananmen Square and Forbidden City tours are perfect, with options like the budget-friendly ticket tours. For those craving a more personal, relaxed experience, small-group or private tours like the 2-day top highlights will deliver an unforgettable trip. Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons, and always check for inclusions like hotel pickup, lunch, and skip-the-line tickets.

In summary, Beijing offers a wide range of tours that cater to every traveler’s style—whether you prefer the grandeur of the Great Wall, the history-filled halls of the Forbidden City, or exploring the city’s culinary secrets. For first-timers, the full-day private tours tend to offer the best balance of comfort and insight, while budget travelers will find plenty of value in the affordable entry-level options. Whatever your choice, be sure to book early and tailor your experience to what excites you most.