Our Picks For The 15 Best Tours & Experiences In Xiamen

Xiamen stands out as a city where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly. Its unique UNESCO World Heritage-listed Tulou, charming Gulangyu Island, and lively markets make it a perfect place for immersive tours. We particularly love the Private Day Tour To Tianluokeng Tulou from Xiamen — it offers a genuine look into Hakka culture with a local family lunch and stunning scenery. The variety of experiences, from cultural exploration to culinary adventures, ensures that every traveler finds something memorable. Whether you’re short on time or planning a longer stay, Xiamen’s tours offer authentic, practical ways to get beneath the surface of this dynamic city.

Quick Overview

This list features a mix of full-day private tours, half-day explorations, layover-friendly options, and cultural immersions. Highlights include visits to Gulangyu Island, Hakka Tulou clusters, local markets, and historic temples. All experiences are designed with flexibility, expert guides, and local insights in mind. For example, the Private Day Tour To Tianluokeng Tulou combines UNESCO heritage sites with home-cooked Hakka cuisine. Want a quick taste? The Xiamen Half-Day Private Tour is perfect for a few hours of sightseeing.

1. Private Day Tour To Tianluokeng Tulou from Xiamen Including Lunch

At number 1, this private tour takes you deep into the Hakka Tulou landscape, with a focus on the Tianluokeng cluster, one of the most iconic groups of these UNESCO-listed earth buildings. The tour includes visits to Yuchang Building and the picturesque Taxia Village, often called the “Water Town in southern Fujian.” The real highlight is a home-cooked Hakka lunch with rice wine, offering a taste of local life. The tour provides flexible 2-way transfers from anywhere in downtown Xiamen, making it convenient and hassle-free.

The guide will take you through terraced fields and traditional villages, sharing stories about Hakka culture and architecture. The viewing platform offers classic photo opportunities, and the family lunch adds an authentic flavor. Guests praise the knowledgeable guides and the seamless organization, with reviews consistently rating this experience a perfect 5/5. It’s best suited for those wanting a meaningful cultural experience combined with stunning scenery.

Bottom Line: A comprehensive, well-reviewed tour for culture lovers willing to spend a day exploring Fujian’s famous Tulou.

2. Private One Day Xiamen And Gulangyu Highlight Tour Including Lunch

Number 2 on our list is a balanced day tour that covers the main highlights of Xiamen, including the UNESCO-listed Gulangyu Island. Starting with a quick ferry ride, the tour explores the island’s colonial architecture, Sunlight Rock, and the Piano Museum, China’s only dedicated piano museum. It then continues with a sea-side visit to Shuzhuang Garden, a tranquil space with beautiful gardens and a local seafood lunch.

This tour is perfect for first-timers or anyone wanting a personalized experience with a private guide and driver. Reviewers love how smoothly everything runs, mentioning the helpful guides and the quality of the included lunch. The tour fits comfortably into an eight-hour window, making it ideal for those on a tight schedule.

Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers eager to see Xiamen’s top sights, with a special focus on Gulangyu Island and local cuisine.

3. Xiamen Half-Day Private Tour include Gulang Yu Island and Garden

Number 3 offers a short but sweet introduction to Xiamen’s highlights, perfect for a morning or afternoon slot. The Gulangyu Island visit includes the classic Chinese Garden, colonial architecture, and the Piano Museum, all with a local guide. Afterward, the tour visits the Shuzhuang Garden, a Qing Dynasty-style park with impressive natural scenery and architecture. The flexible schedule allows you to include an optional meal, making it adaptable to your plans.

Reviewers highlight the friendly guides and the comfortable ferry ride. Since it’s a half-day tour, it’s best for those with limited time but a desire to see the essence of Gulangyu and enjoy some local garden scenery. It’s also a good way to get an overview without feeling rushed.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers on a tight schedule who want a quick, quality introduction to Gulangyu and Xiamen’s gardens.

4. Xiamen Layover Day Tour-Gulangyu,Shuzhuang Garden And Piano Museum

Number 4 is tailored for layover travelers or those with limited time. This 5-hour private tour includes pickup from the airport, visits to Gulangyu Island, the Shuzhuang Garden, and the Piano Museum. The itinerary is flexible, allowing you to customize your visit to match your flight schedule.

Guests appreciate the efficiency and personalized attention, mentioning guides who are knowledgeable and accommodating. With included ferry tickets, this tour maximizes your short stay, giving you a taste of Xiamen’s charm without the hassle of planning. It’s perfect for those who want a stress-free introduction to the city with minimal time commitment.

Bottom Line: Great for layovers, especially if you want to experience Gulangyu and local gardens without the fuss.

5. Xiamen Private English Tour Guide Service

Number 5 is a customizable guide service, offering personalized itineraries based on your interests. Whether you want to explore Gulangyu Island, Zhongshan Road shopping street, or other city highlights, this guide helps navigate language barriers and cultural nuances. The flexible service allows you to tailor your day and includes local recommendations.

Rated 5/5, travelers commend the helpfulness and professionalism of guides like Evelyn, who went out of her way to ensure seamless experiences. This service suits travelers who prefer independent exploration with professional support and want a more flexible, tailored day.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want control over their itinerary but appreciate local expertise to enrich their experience.

6. 4-Hour Xiamen Private Local Food Market Experience

Number 6 offers a food lover’s adventure, visiting Zeng Cuo An Village and the Eighth Seafood Market. The tour showcases stalls selling fresh seafood, street snacks, and local specialties like Xiamen Shacha Noodle and oyster pancake. You’ll learn about regional culinary traditions while sampling a variety of tempting street foods.

Reviewers mention the enthusiastic guide Cathy, who shared insider tips and made the experience lively. It’s ideal for adventurous eaters who want a hands-on taste of local cuisine and bustling markets. The small group size and flexible timing add to its appeal.

Bottom Line: A fun, sensory-rich option for foodies eager to explore Xiamen’s vibrant street scene.

7. 2-Day Private Sightseeing Tour of Xiamen City Highlights and Tulou Cluster

Number 7 provides an in-depth two-day exploration of Xiamen and the surrounding Hakka Earth Buildings. Day 1 includes visits to Gulangyu Island, Riguang Mountain, and Shuzhuang Garden, with a local lunch and entrance fees all included. The second day features more cultural sites, including Yongding Tulou.

Guests rave about the personalized guides and smooth logistics, making it a good choice for those wanting a comprehensive experience. The all-inclusive price offers good value for a relaxed exploration with private transfers and detailed insights.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting an immersive, two-day deep dive into Xiamen’s highlights and Hakka architecture.

8. Flexible Private Xiamen Layover Tour from Cruise Port or Airport

Number 8 is another layover-friendly option, allowing you to customize your Xiamen city visit with flexible timing and destinations. It includes door-to-door transfers, with stops at Gulangyu Island, Nanputuo Temple, and Qing Dynasty Fort. The guide helps craft an itinerary around your schedule, making it perfect for short stopovers.

Reviewers highlight the personalized service and efficient logistics, with guides like Cathy providing great local tips. It’s excellent for busy travelers who want a tailored city experience without missing their connection or flight.

Bottom Line: Ideal for layovers, combining flexibility with cover of key attractions in a short time.

9. 4-hour Xiamen Private Flexible Tour in Your Way

Number 9 offers a completely customizable 4-hour tour. You decide what to see—be it Nanputuo Temple, Huli Mountain Fort, or local markets. The guide adapts to your preferences, making it a personalized quick trip through Xiamen’s highlights.

Reviewers point out the flexibility and personalized approach, fostering a relaxed, energetic experience. This is perfect for those who want to explore at their own pace or have specific interests.

Bottom Line: Great for travelers with limited time who want control over their sightseeing.

10. Full-Day Private Tour of Anxi County from Xiamen with Lunch

Number 10 takes you outside the city to Anxi County, main producer of Oolong tea like Tieguanyin. The trip includes a local farm visit, tea tasting, and scenic views from Hong’en Rock. A delicious farm lunch complements the day, giving insight into tea cultivation and rural life.

Guests praise the expert guides and the authentic experience of tea tasting in the countryside. It’s best suited for tea enthusiasts or those wanting a peaceful escape from city life. The full-day duration makes it a good value for absorbing Fujian’s scenic beauty and cultural practices.

Bottom Line: Perfect for tea lovers and nature fans seeking a relaxed, educational day trip.

11. Private Day Tour To Chuxi Tulou From Xiamen Including Lunch

Number 11 explores the Chuxi Tulou, a site often mistaken for a missile base due to its unusual design. The private guide takes you at your own pace through terraced fields, local Hakka villages, and the Chuxi Tulou cluster, with a traditional Hakka lunch included.

Guests note the informative guide and the unique architecture that makes this tour stand out. It’s ideal for those interested in Hakka culture and earth buildings beyond the crowds. The personalized pace and local lunch enhance its appeal.

Bottom Line: A fascinating, less touristy option for architecture and culture aficionados.

12. Private Day Tour to Visit Guanghua Temple and Meizhou Island from Xiamen

Number 12 combines religious sites and coastal scenery with visits to Guanghua Temple and Meizhou Island, the birthplace of Goddess Matsu. The tour includes a ferry ride, a temple visit, and opportunities for photo stops along the coast.

Tourists praise the smooth logistics and insightful guides. It’s ideal for culture and nature enthusiasts wanting a relaxed, meaningful day outside the city. The full-day itinerary provides a comprehensive look at regional spirituality and coastal beauty.

Bottom Line: Well-suited for those interested in Buddhist history and maritime culture.

13. Private Xiamen Gaoqi Airport Departure Transfer from City Areas

Number 13 is a reliable transfer service to the airport, costing about $33. It features spacious vehicles and professional drivers who are punctual and knowledgeable, making your departure stress-free. It’s a simple but essential service for smooth travel logistics.

Guests appreciate the polite drivers and timely service, especially helpful for early flights or after long days of sightseeing.

Bottom Line: A practical, must-have service for seamless airport transfers.

14. Private Overnight Tour to Visit Nanjing and Yongding Tulou Castles from Xiamen

Number 14 offers an immersive two-day experience of Fujian’s Tulou and Hakka villages, including overnight stay in a tulou guesthouse. The itinerary covers Tianluokeng, Yuchanglou, and Chengqilou, with traditional Hakka meals and local culture.

Guests mention the excellent guides and authentic accommodations. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to deeply explore the region, with a focus on culture and comfortable local stays.

Bottom Line: Best for those seeking a comprehensive, multi-day adventure.

15. Private Transfer between Xiamen City and Tianluokeng Tulou Cluster

Finally, the private transfer service offers a comfortable, direct ride from Xiamen to the Tianluokeng Tulou. Starting at about $89, it provides flexible vehicle options for groups of various sizes. The service prioritizes safety and punctuality.

Guests praise the friendly driver and the hassle-free journey, making it a great choice for travelers who prefer private transport over public options.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a reliable, private transfer to explore the Tulou without fuss.

How to Choose the Best Tour in Xiamen

When selecting your ideal Xiamen experience, consider your interests, time constraints, and budget. Want to explore the UNESCO-listed Tulou in depth? The Private Day Tour To Tianluokeng Tulou offers immersive cultural insight. For a quick city taste, the Half-Day Tour including Gulangyu is perfect. Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the private transfer services or the food market experience for authentic local flavor.

If you’re pressed for time, layover tours like the Gulangyu Layover Tour provide a hassle-free way to see key sights. For those seeking cultural depth, the 2-day Tulou tour or overnight experience are excellent choices.

Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, and always clarify your interest level, mobility, and schedule flexibility to match with the right experience.

Final Thoughts

Xiamen offers a wide range of tours, from cultural explorations of Hakka Tulou to scenic island visits and culinary adventures. For a comprehensive, immersive experience, the Private Day Tour to Tianluokeng Tulou stands out. If you prefer a quick city overview, the Gulangyu Island tour is a fantastic choice. Travelers focused on local food or relaxing countryside visits will find plenty of options, too.

Whatever your style, booking early helps secure the best guides and schedules. Dive into Xiamen’s rich tapestry of sights and flavors—you won’t regret it.