Small-Group Beijing City Highlights Tour With Lunch

Set out on a captivating journey through Beijing’s iconic landmarks with the Small-Group Beijing City Highlights Tour. This immersive experience offers personalized attention, allowing you to explore the rich cultural heritage of China’s capital. From the grandeur of the Forbidden City to the serene beauty of the Summer Palace, each stop on the tour promises to leave a lasting impression. But the true highlight just might be the opportunity to savor a traditional Chinese lunch, providing a flavorful interlude amidst the day’s explorations.

Key Points

• A 9-hour small-group tour visiting iconic Beijing landmarks like the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and Summer Palace, with round-trip hotel pickup and lunch included.
• Guided exploration of the Forbidden City, the largest ancient imperial palace complex, to learn about imperial architecture and dynastic history.
• Discover the architectural masterpiece of the Temple of Heaven, where emperors prayed for good harvests, and climb to the Circular Mound Altar for panoramic views.
• Explore the UNESCO-listed Summer Palace, an imperial garden featuring the Long Corridor and the Marble Boat, along with scenic Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill.
• Visits to a Chinese medicine center and either a pearl gallery or silk museum provide a well-rounded cultural experience beyond the main attractions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Tour

The small-group Beijing City Highlights Tour provides travelers with a comprehensive day-long exploration of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

Priced at £131.32 per person, the 9-hour tour includes round-trip hotel pickup and lunch. Guests will visit the awe-inspiring Forbidden City, the spiritual Temple of Heaven, and the serene Summer Palace.

Along the way, they’ll learn about traditional Chinese medicine and culture at supplementary stops. With a maximum group size of 9, the tour offers an intimate and enriching experience.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, and reservations must be booked at least 7 days prior.

Exploring the Forbidden City

Spanning over 178 acres, the Forbidden City stands as the largest ancient imperial palace complex, boasting a captivating 650-year history.

On this tour, visitors explore the iconic site along its central axis for an hour, seeing the grandeur of the imperial architecture and learning about its significance.

From the imposing gates to the intricate details of the palace buildings, the Forbidden City offers a glimpse into China’s dynastic past.

With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for this UNESCO World Heritage Site and its enduring cultural legacy.

Visiting the Temple of Heaven

After exploring the grandeur of the Forbidden City, the tour continues to the Temple of Heaven, the largest ancient imperial worship site where emperors once prayed for good harvests.

Travelers spend an hour exploring this architectural masterpiece, marveling at its intricate marble carvings and the symbolic significance of its circular and square designs.

The guide explains the temple’s history and the rituals performed by the emperors.

Visitors can climb to the top of the iconic three-tiered Circular Mound Altar, which was used for solstice ceremonies, and enjoy panoramic views of the vast temple complex.

Discovering the Summer Palace

With a short half-hour drive from the Temple of Heaven, the tour now takes visitors to the stunning Summer Palace.

Explore the imperial garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll along the Long Corridor, admire the Marble Boat, and take in the views of Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill.

Explore the imperial garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll along the Long Corridor, admire the Marble Boat, and take in the views.

See the grandiose architectural styles and learn about the palace’s history as the summer retreat for Qing dynasty emperors.

The tour provides a chance to immerse in the beauty and serenity of this remarkable site, offering a peaceful contrast to the bustle of central Beijing.

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Additional Stops Along the Way

Along With the major attractions, the tour also includes short visits to a Chinese medicine center and either a pearl gallery or a silk museum.

At the Chinese medicine center, guests can learn about traditional remedies and see demonstrations of ancient practices.

The pearl gallery or silk museum offer opportunities to browse and purchase high-quality products.

These supplementary stops provide a more well-rounded experience, allowing travelers to enjoy Chinese culture beyond the iconic landmarks.

The small-group format ensures an intimate and engaging exploration of Beijing’s diverse heritage.

Enjoying a Traditional Chinese Lunch

As part of the tour, guests enjoy a traditional Chinese meal at a local restaurant.

The lunch features a variety of authentic dishes, allowing travelers to sample the rich flavors of Beijing cuisine.

The menu may include:

• Peking Duck, a renowned delicacy featuring crispy skin and tender meat

• Dumplings, a staple food in Northern China

• Stir-fried vegetables, highlighting fresh, seasonal produce

• Noodle dishes, a dietary staple

• Hot and sour soup, a flavorful soup with a unique blend of spices

The meal is a highlight of the tour, providing a culture and a chance to experience the local culinary traditions.

Important Booking Requirements and Restrictions

When booking the Beijing City Highlights Tour, guests must provide specific information. This includes the name, address, and cell phone number of their hotel, as well as the passport names, dates of birth, and passport numbers for all travelers.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, and pets aren’t allowed. Plus, the tour is unavailable on Mondays due to the Forbidden City’s closure.

To ensure a smooth experience, travelers should book at least 7 days in advance and be prepared to show their passport or ID card when entering the attractions.

Customer Reviews and Recommendations

Past travelers have provided insightful feedback on their experiences with the Beijing City Highlights Tour.

The tour has an impressive overall rating of 4.5/5 based on 33 reviews. Travelers have noted the following highlights:

An impressive 4.5/5 rating from 33 reviews, with highlights including knowledgeable guides and a captivating cultural experience.

• Knowledgeable and engaging guides who provide valuable cultural insights

• Fascinating historical sites like the Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven

• Enjoyable traditional Chinese lunch at a local restaurant

• Small group size that enhances the personalized experience

• Highly recommended for anyone visiting Beijing to immerse in the city’s rich heritage

The tour’s compelling combination of must-see attractions and cultural experiences has earned it strong recommendations from past participants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Modify the Tour Itinerary to Visit Specific Sites?

Yes, you can likely modify the tour itinerary to visit specific sites. Many tour operators offer customizable options allowing travelers to tailor the itinerary to their interests, subject to availability and additional costs.

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Forbidden City and Other Attractions?

Photography is generally allowed inside the Forbidden City and other attractions on the tour, though visitors should be respectful and avoid using flash. Some sites may have specific restrictions, so it’s best to check with the guide.

How Much Time Is Allotted for Each Stop on the Tour?

The tour allocates about an hour to explore the Forbidden City, a half-hour at the Temple of Heaven, and a half-hour at the Summer Palace. Additional stops at a Chinese medicine center and pearl gallery or silk museum are brief visits.

Can the Tour Be Booked for a Private Group Instead of a Small Group?

Yes, the tour can be booked for a private group. The tour operator offers both small-group and private tour options, allowing visitors to customize their Beijing sightseeing experience based on their preferences and group size.

What Is the Dress Code for This Tour?

There is no specified dress code for this tour. Visitors should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes. Modest attire is recommended when visiting religious sites like the Temple of Heaven.

The Sum Up

The Small-Group Beijing City Highlights Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Beijing’s iconic landmarks. With personalized attention, an included lunch, and insights into Chinese culture, this nine-hour tour provides an engaging and efficient way to experience the city’s highlights. Suited for groups of up to nine, the tour’s reasonable pricing and positive customer reviews make it an attractive option for those seeking a captivating Beijing experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: