Beijing’s rich imperial past comes alive in this captivating tour. Explore the grand Forbidden City, once the exclusive domain of China’s emperors. Then, explore the serene gardens of either the Temple of Heaven or the picturesque Summer Palace. With hassle-free transportation, skip-the-line access, and expert insights, this journey promises an immersive experience. Uncover the architectural wonders and unravel the intriguing stories that have shaped Beijing’s enduring legacy.

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Key Points

This tour offers two main itinerary options: Forbidden City & Temple of Heaven, or Forbidden City & Summer Palace.
The tour includes skip-the-line access, expert guides, and hassle-free transportation, with durations ranging from 4 to 8 hours.
Private tours with lunch are available for a personalized experience.
The Forbidden City & Temple of Heaven option explores the imperial past and ceremonial halls, while the Forbidden City & Summer Palace option includes a peaceful imperial retreat.
The tour is priced from $100.23 per person and can be booked as a private or small-group experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Options

This Beijing tour offers visitors a chance to explore two of the city’s most iconic landmarks – the Forbidden City and either the Temple of Heaven or the Summer Palace.

Priced from $100.23 per person, the tour runs for 4 to 8 hours and is available as a private or small-group experience.

Priced from $100.23 per person, the tour runs for 4 to 8 hours and is available as a private or small-group experience.

Highlights include skip-the-line access, expert English-speaking guides, hassle-free transportation, and a personalized experience.

Guests can choose between exploring the Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven or the Forbidden City and Summer Palace.

Private tours with lunch are also available for those seeking a more personalized experience.

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Itinerary Details

Guests have three starting location options for this Beijing tour, including the Old Porcelain Factory Soybean Milk Shop, Donghuamen Subdistrict, and the Meridian Gate.

The tour offers two primary itinerary options: Forbidden City & Temple of Heaven or Forbidden City & Summer Palace.

For the Forbidden City & Temple of Heaven tour, visitors explore the Forbidden City for over 4 hours, then travel 30 minutes to the Temple of Heaven, spending 1-1.5 hours there.

The Forbidden City & Summer Palace tour follows a similar structure, with 4+ hours at the Forbidden City and 1-2 hours at the Summer Palace after a 1-hour transfer.

Forbidden City & Temple of Heaven

Visitors begin their exploration of the Forbidden City, which stands as a testament to China’s imperial past.

They’ll wander through the complex’s grand courtyards and ornate palaces, marveling at the intricate architecture and learning about the dynasty that once ruled from this iconic landmark.

After completing their Forbidden City visit, the group will travel to the nearby Temple of Heaven.

Here, they’ll discover the majesty of this Ming Dynasty masterpiece, where emperors conducted important rituals.

Guests will have 1-1.5 hours to enjoy the temple’s serene gardens and ceremonial halls.

Forbidden City & Summer Palace

After exploring the grand Forbidden City, the tour shifts to the majestic Summer Palace.

Travelers spend 1.5-2 hours discovering this former imperial retreat. They’ll wander the scenic lakeside gardens, marvel at the iconic Marble Boat, and climb to the top of the Longevity Hill for panoramic views.

The Summer Palace offers a peaceful contrast to the Forbidden City’s grandeur. Guests then return to the city center, having experienced two of Beijing’s most impressive historical sites in a single day.

The private tour option includes a provided lunch, ensuring a seamless, hassle-free experience.

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Private Tour With Lunch (Forbidden City & Temple of Heaven)

For those seeking a more personalized and hassle-free experience, the private tour with lunch option for the Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven is an excellent choice.

This tour includes entry tickets, an expert English-speaking guide, and private transportation between the attractions. Lunch is also provided, adding convenience.

The tour allows visitors to explore the imperial splendor of the Forbidden City and the serene beauty of the Temple of Heaven at their own pace, without the crowds of a larger group.

Visitors can explore the imperial splendor of the Forbidden City and the serene beauty of the Temple of Heaven at their own pace, without the crowds of a larger group.

This is an ideal option for those who value a customized, comfortable, and insightful Beijing sightseeing experience.

There's plenty more to explore in Beijing

Private Tour With Lunch (Forbidden City & Summer Palace)

Those seeking a more personalized and comfortable way to explore Beijing’s iconic sites will appreciate the private tour with lunch option for the Forbidden City and Summer Palace.

This tour provides skip-the-line access to both attractions, allowing guests to avoid the crowds. An expert, English-speaking guide leads the way, sharing insights into the history and significance of each location.

After exploring the Forbidden City for over 4 hours, travelers will enjoy a local lunch before continuing to the Summer Palace, where they’ll spend 1.5-2 hours discovering the imperial gardens and lakeside pavilions.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes entry tickets to both the Forbidden City and either the Temple of Heaven or Summer Palace, as well as an expert English-speaking guide to lead the way.

Transportation between the attractions is also provided. Lunch is included for private tours. The group size is limited to 15 participants for a more personalized experience.

The tour excludes:

Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Tickets to the Forbidden City’s Treasure Hall and Clock Exhibition
Personal expenses and gratuities

Important Information

Cancellation for this tour is free up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for a full refund. Guests should bring their passport or ID, wear comfortable shoes, and pack sunscreen, a hat, and a water bottle. The tour is conducted in English, but other languages can be arranged upon request. Group sizes are limited to 15 participants for a personalized experience, ensuring an intimate and attentive tour.

| What to Bring | Recommendations |

| — | — |

| Passport or ID | Wear comfortable shoes |

| Sunscreen | Bring a hat |

| Water bottle | – |

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Cancel the Tour at Any Time?

The tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Beyond that, cancellations may incur fees, so it’s best to review the policy carefully before booking.

Is the Tour Available in Languages Other Than English?

The tour is offered in English, but for other languages, customers need to contact the tour provider. Group tours are limited to 15 participants to provide a personalized experience. Cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is There an Option to Visit the Forbidden City’s Treasure Hall?

There’s no option to visit the Forbidden City’s Treasure Hall on this tour. The tour includes entry tickets to the Forbidden City and either the Temple of Heaven or Summer Palace, but it doesn’t cover the Treasure Hall.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code for the tour, but visitors are advised to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes as there’s significant walking involved. The focus is on exploring the attractions, not formal attire.

Can I Request a Customized Itinerary?

Yes, customers can request a customized itinerary. The tour provider offers private tours that allow participants to personalize their experience and visit the attractions they’re most interested in.

The Sum Up

This guided tour offers visitors an immersive experience exploring the rich history and grand architecture of Beijing’s Forbidden City, complemented by a visit to either the serene Temple of Heaven or the picturesque Summer Palace. With hassle-free transportation, skip-the-line access, and insights from expert guides, this tour provides an unforgettable day for discovering the city’s imperial past and natural beauty.