3-Day Beijing Hightlight Tour with Optional Peking Duck & Show

Planning a trip to Beijing can be daunting, especially with so much to see and do. That’s where the 3-Day Beijing Highlight Tour from Lily’s Tour Company comes in—offering a well-rounded introduction to China’s capital without the hassle of organizing every detail yourself. This private, all-inclusive package promises to cover the city’s must-see sights, with the flexibility to upgrade for extra experiences like a Peking Duck dinner and a traditional show.

We love that this tour is designed to maximize your time efficiently while delivering a personalized experience. The private guide and transport ensure a smooth, tailored journey, perfect for first-time visitors eager to get a feel for Beijing’s iconic landmarks. The inclusion of all entrance fees and lunch adds value, removing hidden costs along the way. However, travelers should be aware that hotel accommodations are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your stay separately.

This tour is best suited for those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free introduction to Beijing’s highlights in just three days. It’s especially ideal for first-timers, families, or anyone seeking a well-organized private experience that balances culture, history, and fun.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience: Your own guide and vehicle make the tour flexible and tailored.
• All-in-one package: Entrance fees, lunch, and optional add-ons are included, making it straightforward.
• Ideal for first-time visitors: The itinerary covers all the major sights with insightful commentary.
• Flexible upgrade options: Enjoy Peking duck dinner and a traditional show if you choose.
• Comfortable transportation: Private vehicle with hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience.
• Moderate physical activity: Expect some walking and stair climbing, especially at sites like the Forbidden City and the Great Wall.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect on Each Day

Day 1: The Heart of Beijing—History and Culture

Your first day begins with a hotel pickup early in the morning, which sets the tone for a seamless experience. The tour kicks off at Tiananmen Square, the largest city square in the world. Standing here, you’ll see landmarks like the Great Hall of the People and Chairman Mao’s Mausoleum, which give an immediate sense of China’s political and cultural significance. The square itself is vast, and it’s easy to appreciate its scale once you’re standing in the middle.

Next, you’ll step into the Forbidden City, a sprawling complex that served as the imperial palace for nearly 500 years. Despite the damage and renovations over centuries, the architecture still dazzles, with many buildings dating back to the 1700s. The site offers many photo opportunities, such as the ornate halls, courtyards, and intricate details that tell stories of dynasties gone by. Expect to spend a couple of hours here, soaking in the grandeur.

Following this, a short walk will take you to Jingshan Park, where you’ll climb to the top of Jingshan Hill for panoramic views of the Forbidden City. On clear days, the city skyline is visible beyond, offering a perfect selfie moment.

In the afternoon, the Hutong neighborhood awaits—a labyrinth of narrow alleys that preserve Beijing’s traditional lifestyle. A rickshaw ride here adds a fun, nostalgic touch, and you’ll visit local homes and shops to get a glimpse into everyday life. Your lunch will be served nearby at an authentic local restaurant, making this part of the day as much about cultural insight as sightseeing.

The day winds down with a visit to the Temple of Heaven, where emperors once performed elaborate ceremonies to pray for good harvests. The site’s vast grounds, ancient structures, and the iconic Hall of Prayer make it a peaceful yet impressive spot to end your day.

To cap it off, you might upgrade to enjoy the Red Theatre Beijing Kung Fu Show or an acrobatic performance. Reviewers mention the show as a fantastic addition, with many praising the skill and energy of the performers—an exciting finish to your first day.

Day 2: The Great Wall and Ming Dynasty Secrets

Day two is dedicated to exploring the Great Wall at Mutianyu—a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its stunning views and well-preserved structure. The cable car or toboggan ride (included in the package) makes the ascent easy, especially for those who prefer a less strenuous way to reach the top. From here, you’ll see the sweeping landscape of mountains and valleys, a truly iconic scenery that most travelers consider a highlight.

After spending a couple of hours wandering along the Wall, you’ll enjoy lunch at a nearby local restaurant, giving you a taste of authentic Chinese cuisine. Then, your journey continues to the Ming Tombs, where you’ll visit the only tomb excavated and open to the public. These tombs are the burial sites of 13 Ming emperors, with the site built over centuries, featuring grand mausoleums and intricate carvings.

Reviewers highlight the importance of the Ming Tombs as a quieter, less crowded site compared to the Forbidden City, offering a different perspective on imperial China. As you pass by the Bird’s Nest and the Water Cube—famous stadiums from the 2008 Olympics—your guide will likely share some interesting tidbits about modern Beijing blending with its historic sites.

Day 3: Gardens, Temples, and Modern Art

On your final day, you’ll visit the Summer Palace, a sprawling imperial garden with lakes, pavilions, and ancient architecture. Expect to spend around two hours wandering through its grounds, enjoying views of the water and lush landscapes. It’s a serene contrast to the bustling city, perfect for capturing memorable photos.

Next, the Lama Temple—Beijing’s largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery—welcomes visitors with its intricate architecture and giant Buddha statues. Reviewers mention the impressive wooden Buddha statue as a highlight, along with the overall peaceful ambiance of this “Mini Forbidden City,” as some call it.

Your last stop is the 798 Art Zone, a modern art district filled with galleries, sculptures, and creative spaces housed in former factory buildings. It’s a lively area, perfect for those interested in contemporary Chinese art and design. After some exploration, you’ll enjoy a traditional Chinese dinner at a dumpling restaurant, rounding out your trip with delicious local flavors.

The Experience: What We Love and What to Consider

The private guide and transportation really elevate this tour, making it feel personalized and smooth. From the reviews, guides like Rita stood out for their knowledge and charm, with visitors appreciating the way they made history and culture accessible. The small group size (just your party) allows for flexibility—more time at places you love or some quick breaks if needed.

All entrance fees are included, so there’s no stress about extra costs, and the meals are a good way to sample local cuisine without the hassle of figuring out where to go. The optional upgrade for Peking Duck and a show is highly recommended by travelers who want a fun cultural night out, with many praising the Red Theatre Kung Fu Show as exciting and well-performed.

While the tour is comprehensive, it does involve a fair amount of walking, especially at sites like the Forbidden City and the Great Wall. Reviewers note a moderate physical fitness level is helpful, but the pace is suitable for most travelers, including families and seniors.

Price-wise, $560 per person for a 3-day private experience with all logistics covered is a good deal, considering the convenience and quality of guides. It saves time on planning and ensures you hit all the high points without feeling rushed.

One consideration is that hotel accommodations are not included, so you’ll need to book your own stay in Beijing. The tour’s timing, often booked 49 days in advance, suggests it’s popular—and for good reason—so early booking is smart.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re visiting Beijing for the first time and want a structured, hassle-free way to see the city’s most famous sights, this tour is a winner. It’s perfect for travelers who value private guides and want to avoid the stress of navigating public transport or large group tours. Families with kids or seniors will appreciate the comfortable transport and tailored pacing.

Those interested in a touch of luxury can also upgrade to include a Peking Duck dinner and a show, making the experience more memorable and culturally immersive. Plus, if you love seeing stunning views, the mutianyu section of the Great Wall offers some of the best scenery around.

However, if you prefer exploring on your own or staying in budget accommodations, this tour might feel a bit structured. Still, for travelers seeking a comprehensive, well-organized introduction with a local guide, it’s a solid choice.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour? Yes, pickup and drop-off at your hotel are included, making the start and end of each day smooth and stress-free.

Are entrance fees covered? Absolutely, all entrance fees at major attractions like the Forbidden City, Great Wall, Ming Tombs, and others are inclusive.

Can I upgrade to include dinner and a show? Yes, the Deluxe Tour Package includes a Peking Duck dinner and a performance at the Red Theatre.

How many days in advance should I book? On average, travelers book this tour about 49 days ahead, indicating good availability but also popularity.

Is this suitable for children or seniors? Yes, the tour is designed for a moderate physical level, making it suitable for families and seniors, though expect some walking.

What should I wear? Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for walking at sites like the Forbidden City and the Great Wall.

What if I don’t want to do the optional upgrade? The standard tour still covers all major sights, with the option to enjoy a traditional Chinese dinner in the evening.

Are meals included? Yes, three lunches are included, and vegetarian options are available if specified.

The Sum Up

This 3-Day Beijing Highlight Tour offers a balanced blend of history, culture, and modern sights—delivered through expert guides and comfortable transportation. It’s ideal for first-time visitors who want to see the most iconic landmarks without the stress of planning every detail. The inclusion of all entrance fees, meals, and flexible options for entertainment makes it a practical choice for travelers seeking value and authenticity.

The passion and knowledge of guides like Rita, combined with the meticulously curated itinerary, make this tour memorable. Whether you’re captivated by the grandeur of the Forbidden City, the sweeping views from the Great Wall, or the peaceful serenity of the Summer Palace, this tour ensures you won’t miss out on Beijing’s best.

If you’re after a well-organized, immersive experience that combines cultural depth with comfort, this tour fits the bill perfectly. Just remember to book early, bring comfortable shoes, and prepare for a few busy but rewarding days in China’s bustling capital.