Beijing: Highlights of Forbidden City+Options Tour
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Why book with us?
We are local experts in Beijing. We understand the frustration of getting around in Beijing. So many rules for pre booking tickets. We will handle the complexities for you, you can enjoy your visit stress-free with us.
Follow our professional guide to explore the biggest wooden palace complex in the world happily.
Available options
Tian'anmen+Forbidden City
Duration: 4 hours: This option will last around 3.5-4.5 hours.<br/>Small Group Tour:: Tian'anmen Square + Forbidden City
Forbidden City Group Tour
3 hours in-depth Walking Tour <br/>Duration: 3 hours<br/>Central axis+Side palaces
ForbiddenCity+Temple of Heaven
Duration: 7 hours<br/>Small group tour:: Tian'anmen Square+Forbidden City+Temple of Heaven<br/>Metro or taxi: Depends on the traffic and political reasons
Forbidden City+Beihai Park
Duration: 5 hours<br/>Palace+Garden : Visit 24 emperors' home and Beautiful Garden beside
What's included
Professtional English-speaking guiding service
Entrance ticket cost with guaranteed entries
Pick up all travellers from fixed meeting point
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Here is the starting of the Forbidden City, Forbidden City which is constructed from 1406 through 1420 during the Ming Dynasty, the Forbidden City – the world’s largest wooden palaces complex – served as China’s imperial palace until the end of the Qing Dynasty in 1912, housing a total of 24 emperors. A Unesco World Heritage Site and the home of the Palace Museum.
The Forbidden City is extremly large,
1. Timeline of Ming and Qing Dynasty Interspersed with interesting historical stories.
2.Knowledge of Chinese Ancient Architecture，interesting Feng-Shui knowledge.
3. Political and Religious Background Knowledge of the Ming and Qing Dynasties.
4.The emperor's family affairs had happened in the Forbidden City.
We will enter into the Forbidden City from the southern gate. Your guide gonna share the deep-rooted feudal hierarchy.
2
You guide will show you three harmony halls including Hall of Superem Harmony sharing emperors' duties and holy role in feudual dynasty.
You will also learn ancient architecture‘s ranking systerm and knowleadge.
3
Emperor did ehearsals here.
4
Imperial exams were held here.
5
Palace of Heavenly Purity, Hall of Union, Palace of earthly tranquility. Learn the system of Imperial Harem of the Qing Dynasty.
We will take you to see details hiding in the corners.
6
Where emperor and empress meet each other.
7
Where empress live and the honeymoon room for emperor and empress during the late Qing dynasty
8
Stop 8
Combined almost the ancient garden art of China.
9
Here is the Exit of the Forbidden City. We will finish the tour here. Your guide will advise you on how to get your next stop.
10
Stop 10
It's the iconic place of Beijing, sitting in the center of Beijing since 1420 of Ming dynasty till today. It witnessed the changing of the late feudal dynasties and the key events of revolutions and reformations of modern China.
What's not included
Tips to the guide for good service
Tickets to the Jewelry and Clock museums
Hotel pick up and drop off services
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
8 reviews
5★
8
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Wheelchair accessible
Pushing a wheelchair needs skills and takes a lot of energy. As the Forbidden City is super big which is 72 hectares and passing through so many gates need go up and down slopes.
Total tour duration includes travel time.
Meeting point
Exit C OF Jinyu Hutong Station of Line 8.
This meeting point is for 8:00am depart time for Forbidden City or Forbidden City+Beihai Park Walking Tour.
About Beijing
Beijing, the capital of China, is a city of immense historical significance and modern dynamism. It's home to iconic landmarks, ancient palaces, and a vibrant contemporary culture that blends tradition with modernity. The city offers a unique mix of ancient history, cultural treasures, and modern advancements.
Top Attractions
The Great Wall of China
One of the most iconic landmarks in the world, the Great Wall of China stretches over 21,000 kilometers. The most accessible sections near Beijing are Badaling and Mutianyu.
Historical
Half day to full day
¥40-80 (depending on the section)
Forbidden City
The Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum, was the imperial palace during the Ming and Qing dynasties. It houses an extensive collection of artifacts and offers a glimpse into China's imperial past.
Historical
2-3 hours
¥60 (March-October), ¥40 (November-February)
Temple of Heaven
The Temple of Heaven is a complex of religious buildings where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties performed annual ceremonies of prayer to heaven for good harvests.
Historical
1-2 hours
¥15 (Temple area), ¥35 (Temple and park)
Summer Palace
The Summer Palace is a vast ensemble of lakes, gardens, and palaces. It served as a retreat for emperors to escape the summer heat and is known for its beautiful landscapes and architecture.
Historical
3-4 hours
¥30 (Park and palace area), ¥60 (Boat ride included)
Hutongs
Hutongs are traditional narrow alleys and residential neighborhoods that offer a glimpse into old Beijing's way of life. Exploring hutongs provides an authentic experience of local culture and history.
Cultural
Half day to full day
Free to explore, but consider paying for guided tours or Rickshaw rides
798 Art Zone
The 798 Art Zone is a contemporary art district located in a former military factory. It's home to numerous art galleries, studios, and cultural events, making it a hub for Beijing's art scene.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free to explore, but some galleries may charge admission
Must-Try Local Dishes
Peking Duck
A iconic dish of Beijing, Peking Duck is roasted to perfection and served with thin pancakes, hoisin sauce, and scallions. The crispy skin and tender meat make it a must-try for any visitor.
Main Course
Contains meat (duck), gluten (pancakes and sauce)
Zhajiangmian (Fried Sauce Noodles)
A popular Beijing street food, Zhajiangmian consists of hand-pulled noodles topped with a rich, savory sauce made from fermented soybean paste and minced pork. It's often served with cucumber and bean sprouts.
Main Course
Contains meat (pork), gluten (noodles and sauce)
Jianbing (Savory Crepes)
A popular Beijing street food, Jianbing is a savory crepe made with a batter of wheat and mung bean flour, filled with egg, scallions, and hoisin sauce. It's crispy, delicious, and perfect for a quick breakfast on the go.
Breakfast
Contains eggs, gluten (batter and sauce)
Baozi (Steamed Buns)
Baozi are steamed buns filled with various ingredients, such as pork, beef, or vegetables. They are a popular street food and can be found in many markets and food stalls throughout Beijing.
Snack
Can be vegetarian or contain meat, depending on the filling; contains gluten (bun)
Popular Activities
Hiking the Great Wall
Rock climbing in the Huairou District
Mountain biking in the outskirts of Beijing
Boat rides on Kunming Lake at the Summer Palace
Tea ceremonies at traditional teahouses
Gardens and parks at the Temple of Heaven and Beihai Park
Exploring the Forbidden City and other imperial palaces
Visiting temples and religious sites
Best Time to Visit
September to October, April to May
These months offer the most pleasant weather with clear skies and comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing. The city is vibrant with cultural festivals and outdoor activities.
15-25°C (59-77°F)
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Mandarin Chinese
- Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas and by younger generations)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Chinese Yuan (CNY)
Time Zone
GMT+8 (China Standard Time)
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and tourist spots
Beijing is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, petty crimes such as pickpocketing and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, particularly at night and in less touristy areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious when using taxis, and insist on using the meter or agreeing on a price before starting the journey
- • Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas and tourist spots
- • Be wary of strangers offering services or attractions at inflated prices, and only use licensed and reputable tour guides and operators
Getting there
By air
- Beijing Capital International Airport • 32 km (20 miles) northeast of city center
- Beijing Daxing International Airport • 46 km (29 miles) south of city center
By train
Beijing Railway Station, Beijing West Railway Station
By bus
Beijing Sihui Bus Station, Beijing Liuliqiao Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The Beijing Subway is efficient, affordable, and widely used. It's the best way to navigate the city, especially during peak hours.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Didi Chuxing, Tencent Taxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Dongcheng
Xicheng
Chaoyang
Haidian
Shijingshan
Day trips
The Great Wall at Mutianyu
70 km (43 miles) northeast of Beijing • Full day
The Great Wall at Mutianyu is a less crowded and more scenic section of the Great Wall, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It's a popular day trip from Beijing for those looking to experience the Great Wall without the large crowds.
The Great Wall at Jinshanling
130 km (81 miles) northeast of Beijing • Full day
The Great Wall at Jinshanling is a remote and less restored section of the Great Wall, offering a more authentic and adventurous experience. It's a popular day trip for those looking to explore the Great Wall's wild and rugged beauty.
The Great Wall at Simatai
120 km (75 miles) northeast of Beijing • Full day
The Great Wall at Simatai is a unique and well-preserved section of the Great Wall, known for its dramatic and picturesque landscape. It's a popular day trip for those looking to experience the Great Wall's beauty and history in a more intimate setting.
Festivals
Chinese New Year (Spring Festival) • January or February (varies by lunar calendar)
Lantern Festival • 15th day of the first lunar month (varies by year)
Qingming Festival (Tomb-Sweeping Day) • April 4th or 5th (varies by solar calendar)
Pro tips
- Use the official Beijing Subway app for route planning and real-time updates
- Carry a VPN to access restricted apps and websites, such as Google, Facebook, and Instagram
- Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the city's many attractions and neighborhoods
- Try local snacks and street food for an authentic and delicious culinary experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
