Private Day Tour: Summer Palace and Old Summer Palace in Beijing

If you’re looking to see Beijing’s most iconic royal gardens without the hassle of navigating on your own, this private day tour hits all the right notes. Designed for lovers of exquisite landscapes and rich history, it offers a focused, personalized experience of two of China’s most celebrated sites—the Summer Palace (Yiheyuan) and the Old Summer Palace (Yuanmingyuan).

What really makes this tour stand out are three things: the intimate, guided approach that ensures you don’t miss the details; the inclusion of lunch, entrance fees, and hotel pickup/drop-off, which makes it a seamless experience; and the opportunity to see both the grandeur of the Qing dynasty’s most famous palace and the haunting ruins of the former imperial complex.

A potential consideration? The duration of 6 to 8 hours means you’ll want to set aside a full day, but the pace is relaxed enough to truly enjoy each site. This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive, yet personalized understanding of Beijing’s imperial gardens—great if you love cultural stories, architecture, and lush landscapes.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with an expert guide
• All-inclusive price covering lunch, entrance fees, and transport
• Visiting both the Summer Palace and Old Summer Palace in one day
• Insightful commentary on Chinese royal history and garden design
• Option for a boat tour on Kunming Lake (additional fee)
• Suitable for all weather (dress appropriately) and most travelers

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Convenience from the Start: Hotel Pickup and Private Transport

One of the biggest perks of this tour is the hotel pickup and drop-off, which means you won’t have to worry about navigating Beijing’s traffic or public transport. The transportation is via private, air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable ride between sites. The pick-up timing is flexible, allowing you to choose a departure that works best for your schedule.

This setup is ideal for those who prefer a stress-free, personalized experience, especially after a long flight or a busy travel day. The fact that it’s a private tour means the entire journey is tailored to your pace and interests.

First Stop: The UNESCO World Heritage Site – The Summer Palace (Yiheyuan)

Once you arrive at the Summer Palace, the guide kicks off with a historical overview—sharing stories of how this sprawling complex was built during the Qing dynasty and later destroyed in 1860, only to be restored. You’ll explore the grounds that spill out from Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill, which are famous for their harmonious blend of lakes, bridges, pavilions, and gardens.

Walking through the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity, built in 1750 during Emperor Qianlong’s reign, you’ll get a sense of Qing imperial life. Reviewers have mentioned that guides are super helpful and caring, especially for senior visitors, making the experience accessible and engaging for all ages.

A highlight is the Yulan Hall, once the residence of Emperor Guangxu, and the Hall of Happiness and Longevity, where Empress Dowager Cixi once dwelled. These sites offer a peek into the lives of Chinese royalty, with plenty of stories to bring the history alive.

You’ll also stroll along the Long Corridor, a covered walkway lined with paintings, which is considered one of the most beautiful architectural features of the palace. One reviewer described their guide as insightful and interesting, highlighting how stories about the architecture and symbolism added depth to the walk.

Lunch Break: Authentic Chinese Cuisine Included

The included lunch is an appreciated touch, giving you a chance to relax and sample local flavors. Some reviews mention that guides are attentive to dietary needs—one even managed to order a meal accommodating food allergies. Having a meal included not only adds value but also keeps the day flowing smoothly without needing to find a restaurant on your own.

Moving on to the Old Summer Palace (Yuanmingyuan): A Different Kind of Majesty

After a leisurely lunch, the tour continues to the Old Summer Palace, often called the “Versailles of the East.” While it’s mostly ruins today, the site is packed with evocative remnants—crumbling walls, statues, water features, and the iconic Marble Boat. The gardens here combine Eastern and Western architecture, which you’ll see in the ruins and the remaining structures.

The Tower of Buddhist Incense sits on the hillside of Longevity Hill and remains one of the landmark features—offering great views and a sense of the grandeur that once was. Visitors have noted that the guide’s explanations make the ruins much more meaningful, transforming what could be just old stones into stories about imperial power and cultural exchange.

Optional: A Boat Ride on Kunming Lake

For an extra layer of experience, you can opt for a boat tour on Kunming Lake (additional fee). This allows you to see the site from the water, and many find it a tranquil way to take in the scenery. One reviewer commented that the boat ride added a peaceful dimension to their visit.

Final Stop: Reflection and Relaxation

The tour wraps up with a gentle return to your hotel, providing a chance to digest what you’ve seen. By this point, you’ll have a well-rounded understanding of Beijing’s imperial history, architecture, and landscape design—thanks largely to the knowledgeable guides praised in reviews.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $178 per person, this tour covers a lot of ground for a full-day experience. Consider that entrance fees, lunch, private transport, and personalized guide service are all included—this simplifies planning and reduces surprises. Compared to visiting these sites independently, which can involve long lines, confusing navigation, and additional costs, the package offers both convenience and depth.

The private nature of the tour means you get to tailor the experience—your guide, your pace, your questions. Reviewers have particularly appreciated the insights from guides like Lucy and Ansom, who are praised for being knowledgeable, caring, and flexible.

Practicality and Comfort

Given the typically large and crowded nature of Beijing’s major sights, this private tour offers a more relaxed, exclusive experience. The climate can vary, so dressing appropriately is advisable, but the comfort of air-conditioned transport and the ability to take breaks when needed makes it suitable for most travelers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history buffs, garden lovers, and those interested in Chinese royalty. It’s especially suited for travelers wanting a comprehensive, guided visit with minimal fuss. Families with children, seniors, or those with dietary restrictions will find the attentive guides a big plus.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it very convenient, especially if you’re staying in central Beijing.

How long does the tour last?
The duration is approximately 6 to 8 hours, depending on your pace and the time spent at each site.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for the Summer Palace and Old Summer Palace are covered in the tour price.

Can I customize the visit?
This is a private tour, so your guide can tailor the experience to your interests and pace.

Is lunch provided?
Yes, a Chinese lunch is included in the tour, with special arrangements possible if you have dietary restrictions.

What is the boat option?
You can opt for a boat tour on Kunming Lake, which is free for the ride itself but requires an extra fee if you choose to participate.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for weather conditions—comfortable shoes, sun protection, and layers are recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and guides are known to be caring and flexible with families.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, the tour is booked about 34 days in advance, so early booking is advisable to secure your preferred date.

Final Thoughts

This private tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into Beijing’s imperial garden heritage, combining the grandeur of the Summer Palace with the poignant ruins of Yuanmingyuan. The expert guides and all-inclusive approach make it a hassle-free way to enjoy these iconic sites.

If you’re someone who appreciates well-crafted landscapes, historical stories, and comfortable travel, this experience hits the sweet spot. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a private, flexible, and educational day away from the crowds.

While it’s a full-day commitment, the balance of sightseeing, storytelling, and comfort ensures you’ll walk away with a richer understanding of China’s royal past—and plenty of beautiful photos to cherish.

In summary, this tour presents an excellent value for those wanting an authentic, guided experience of Beijing’s most famous gardens. It’s a perfect choice if you prefer a personalized approach, appreciate history and architecture, and want to avoid the hassle of planning on your own. Whether you’re visiting Beijing for the first time or seeking a more in-depth cultural excursion, this private day tour offers a memorable taste of China’s imperial elegance.