Great Wall, Tian'anmen Square & Forbidden City Private Day Tour
Active
7h - 9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Short on time in Beijing? Check off three unmissable icons in a single, stress-free day with our private tour—ideal for first-time visitors!
We’ve curated the perfect itinerary for you: pick between two stellar Great Wall sections. Opt for the iconic Badaling Great Wall, where we grant you complimentary green lane access—skip all lines and head straight onto the wall. Or choose the scenic Mutianyu Great Wall. Pair your Great Wall adventure with visits to Tian’anmen Square and the Forbidden City—2 of Beijing’s most legendary landmarks.
No more scrambling for tickets, especially during peak season when Forbidden City passes sell out in minutes. We take care of all entrance tickets for every stop, matching official prices exactly. You don’t have to lift a finger—just sit back and soak in the grandeur of China’s history and culture.
Our package includes a professional guide and a dedicated driver, plus convenient round-trip transfers from your downtown Beijing hotel.
Available options
Badaling Great Wall
After the Tian'anmen Square and Forbidden City, if you want to visit Badaling Great Wall please choose this option <br/>Pickup included
Mutianyu Great Wall
Mutianyu Great Wall: After the Tian'anmen Square and Forbidden City, if you want to visit Mutianyu Great Wall please choose this option <br/>Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Travel by private vehicle
Entrance fee
English speaking tour gudie
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Meet your friendly tour guide in the lobby of your Beijing hotel, then hop in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and head toward Tian'anmen Square.
As you approach this iconic site—part of Beijing’s UNESCO-listed Central Axis 北京市人民政府—your guide will share fascinating stories about its landmark buildings. You’ll get a clear view of Chairman Mao’s Mausoleum, The Monument of the People's Heroes, The Great Hall of the People, The National Museum, and the Gate of Heavenly Peace, with insights into their history and significance.
During peak season, security checks for Tian’anmen Square can involve long waits, sometimes 1 to 3 hours . Since our itinerary focuses on the Forbidden City and the Great Wall, we’ll adjust flexibly if lines are too long: we’ll drive past the square so your guide can continue the commentary, letting you save time for the day’s key highlights.
2
Stop 2
Then, we move on to the Forbidden City—a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s largest ancient palatial complex, dating back to the 15th century. As the imperial home to 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties, this magnificent complex is brimming with stories of power, tradition, and royal life
.
You’ll spend 1.5 hours exploring its most iconic spots with your guide, wandering through grand golden-roofed halls, serene marble courtyards, and hidden imperial gardens. Follow your guide to marvel at the Hall of Supreme Harmony (the centerpiece of the palace, where emperors held grand ceremonies) and peek into the private quarters where empresses and concubines once lived.
Your guide will bring the Forbidden City’s past to life—sharing tales of royal intrigues, ancient rituals, and the architectural genius that made this complex a masterpiece of Chinese design.
3
Stop 3
Next, we’ll head north to the Great Wall—feel free to chat with your guide to pick the section that suits you best.
If you opt for Badaling Great Wall—China’s most renowned and iconic section, steeped in centuries of history—we’ll hook you up with exclusive green lane access that lets you skip all lines entirely. This is a game-changer during peak season, when regular entry lines can drag on for hours.
Guide will walk alongside you, sharing vivid stories of the wall’s military past, legendary battles, and the countless workers who built this marvel of ancient engineering.
After your immersive Great Wall experience, we’ll transfer you smoothly back to your Beijing hotel, wrapping up a day of unforgettable history and scenery.
4
Stop 4
Alternatively, you can opt for Mutianyu Great Wall—a scenic gem renowned for its stunning mountain backdrop and well-preserved Ming Dynasty architecture, a favorite among travelers seeking a blend of natural beauty and historical charm.
While Mutianyu draws plenty of visitors (especially in peak season, when lines for cable cars and ski lifts can get long), it offers unique fun like the thrilling downhill toboggan ride that’s a hit with tourists of all ages. You can choose to take the cable car or ski lift up to the wall—both great ways to save time and energy—then spend 1.5 hours exploring its winding ramparts and ancient watchtowers. On the way down, the toboggan ride is an exciting way to cap off your adventure.
No matter which section you choose, your guide will hike alongside you every step of the way, sharing fascinating stories behind the wall’s construction. You’ll also get plenty of free time to snap photos, soak in the views, and explore at your own pace.
What's not included
Gratuites
Meals
Cable car at the Great Wall
8–9 hour service window | $30/hour overtime charge for guide & driver (if extended).
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tian’anmen Square is a complimentary attraction. However, during peak season, security checks are extremely strict, with wait times of 1–3 hours to enter. To avoid delays to your subsequent itinerary, we will bypass the square if such long waits are encountered. Since the square is free of charge, no refunds will be issued in this case.
A valid passport number must be provided at the time of booking for ticket reservations.
You can choose either Badaling Great Wall or Mutianyu Great Wall for your visit—only one section is included in the tour.
If you select Badaling Great Wall, we will provide complimentary VIP lane access that allows you to skip all queues entirely. Please note that this is a free perk. No refunds will be given if the VIP lane is closed due to special circumstances.
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
Instant confirmation
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