Explore Beijing’s renowned UNESCO World Heritage Sites with a private tour that grants exclusive access to the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and Summer Palace. This comprehensive experience offers an enriching exploration of China’s cultural treasures, guiding visitors through the imperial history and stunning architecture that define the capital. With seamless transportation and a knowledgeable guide, travelers can discover these iconic landmarks at their own pace, uncovering the stories that bring them to life. Whether a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this private tour promises an unforgettable journey through Beijing’s most celebrated sights.
Key Points
- A private tour that covers three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Beijing: the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and Summer Palace.
- Priced at $180.41 per person for an 8-hour tour, including pickup, entrance fees, and an English-speaking guide.
- Offers fast-track access to the Forbidden City and the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
- Provides an enriching experience of Beijing’s historical and cultural landmarks with personalized attention from a dedicated guide.
- Includes transportation, a no forced shopping stop, and exclusions such as tips, cable car/toboggan fees, and meals.
Tour Overview and Pricing
This private tour offers visitors the opportunity to discover three renowned UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Beijing – the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and Summer Palace – all within a single day.
Discover three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Beijing – the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and Summer Palace – in a single day.
Priced from $180.41 per person, the 8-hour tour includes pickup, entrance fees, and an English-speaking guide.
Visitors can enjoy fast-track access to the Forbidden City and explore the palace’s courtyards and halls.
They’ll also visit the Temple of Heaven and Summer Palace, learning about the Qing Dynasty.
The tour allows for personalized attention and flexibility, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
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Itinerary Details
The tour begins with hotel pickup within the 4th ring road of Beijing, with an additional cost for locations outside this area. The journey starts at Tiananmen Square, where visitors enjoy fast-track access before exploring the Forbidden City for 3 hours on a guided tour. Next, the group heads to the Temple of Heaven for 2 hours to discover its ceremonial buildings and gardens. The final stop is the Summer Palace, where guests learn about the Qing Dynasty and its remarkable gardens for 2 hours. After the tour, participants are returned to their hotels.
| Stop | Duration |
| — | — |
| Tiananmen Square | 30 minutes |
| Forbidden City | 3 hours |
| Temple of Heaven | 2 hours |
| Summer Palace | 2 hours |
Tour Highlights
A key highlight of this tour is the opportunity to discover three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in a single day.
Visitors will explore the iconic Forbidden City, marvel at the majestic Temple of Heaven, and wander through the serene gardens of the Summer Palace.
The tour is ideal for those with limited time in Beijing, providing a comprehensive introduction to the city’s most significant historical and cultural landmarks.
An English-speaking guide will offer personalized attention and share their expertise, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience.
This tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to enjoy Beijing’s rich heritage.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour includes an air-conditioned private car with driver, all entrance tickets to the listed sights, hotel pickup and drop-off, and one no forced shopping stop of approximately 40 minutes.
However, the tour excludes tips for the guide and driver, any cable car or toboggan fees, personal expenses, and travel insurance. Meals are also not included.
Participants must bring their passport or ID card, and Chinese citizens must book the tour at least 7 days in advance.
All visitors will need to pass through airport-style security, so it’s best to avoid large bags, camera tripods, and drones.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Information
Passport or ID card is required for all participants.
All participants must present a valid passport or ID card.
Ticket reservation requires names, nationalities, and passport numbers.
Chinese citizens must book 7 days in advance.
All visitors must pass through airport-style security; avoid large bags, camera tripods, and drones.
Key things to know:
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Passport or ID card is mandatory for all tour participants
-
Provide names, nationalities, and passport numbers when booking
-
Chinese citizens need to book at least 7 days in advance
-
Pass through airport-style security, so avoid large bags, tripods, and drones
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Private Tour Advantages
One key advantage of this private tour is the personalized attention each visitor receives.
With a dedicated English-speaking guide, travelers can explore the iconic sights at their own pace, ask questions, and gain deeper insights.
The small group setting allows for flexible scheduling and the ability to avoid crowded public tours.
Visitors also benefit from seamless transportation, with hotel pickup and drop-off included.
This private experience ensures a more intimate and tailored experience compared to larger group tours, making it an ideal option for those seeking a personalized exploration of Beijing’s UNESCO-listed treasures.
Visiting the Forbidden City
Visitors first encounter the grandeur of the Forbidden City, a sprawling palace complex that served as the imperial seat for nearly 500 years.
During the guided tour, they’ll explore:
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Massive courtyards and lavish halls adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant colors
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The well-preserved architectural details that showcase the Ming and Qing dynasty craftsmanship
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The Hall of Supreme Harmony, the largest and most important building where emperors held court
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Mysterious legends and histories that bring the Forbidden City to life
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The opportunity to walk in the footsteps of ancient Chinese rulers and gain a deeper understanding of the nation’s imperial past.
Exploring the Temple of Heaven and Summer Palace
After exploring the grandeur of the Forbidden City, the tour then takes visitors to the Temple of Heaven and Summer Palace.
At the Temple of Heaven, the group will discover the ceremonial buildings and gardens where Ming and Qing dynasty emperors conducted important annual rituals.
Next, the tour heads to the Summer Palace, the former summer retreat of the imperial family. Here, guests can learn about the Qing dynasty and explore the elaborate gardens, pavilions, and lake.
With knowledgeable guidance, travelers can enjoy the history and cultural significance of these UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but casual, comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended. Visitors should avoid wearing sleeveless tops, shorts, or open-toe shoes when entering the religious sites.
Are Tours Available in Other Languages Besides English?
The tour offers an English-speaking guide, but according to the details, tours in other languages may be available upon request. Guests should inquire about language options when booking the tour to ensure their preferred language is provided.
Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Visitors can’t bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour package includes hotel pickup, entrance tickets, and transportation, but doesn’t cover meals. Participants should plan to purchase food and drinks separately during the tour.
What Time Does the Tour Start and End?
The tour starts with hotel pickup and runs for 8 hours. It includes visits to the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and Summer Palace, with the tour returning to the hotel after the final stop.
Can We Extend the Duration of the Tour?
Yes, the tour duration can be extended. The standard 8-hour tour covers the key sites, but visitors can customize the itinerary and extend the tour for an additional cost to explore more of Beijing’s attractions.
The Sum Up
This private tour of Beijing’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s rich history and stunning architecture. Travelers can discover the cultural treasures of the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and Summer Palace at their own pace, with the convenience of hotel pickup, fast-track access, and a knowledgeable English-speaking guide. It’s an enriching experience that allows visitors to enjoy the captivating heritage of China’s capital.
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