Beijing , China

Private Custom Tour or Private Tour: Beijing in One Day

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(118 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

A privately guided tour, customized to your needs for a full day touring in Beijing. Some highlights include the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, visiting the Hutongs by pedicab. But there's more, shopping in Beijing with your own personal guide for the best bargains in town, what could be better.

Custom Tour Option: We offer an English-speaking tour guide privately for 8 hours.The transferportation, admission tickets, and meals are NOT included.

Private Tour Option: Transportation, English-speaking tour guide, admission tickets, lunch are all included.
PVT-01: Forbidden City + Tian An Men Square + Great Wall at Badaling
PVT-02: Forbidden City + Tian An Men Square + Temple of Heaven + Summer Palace
PVT-03: Great Wall at Badaling + Ming Tomb
PVT-04: Mutianyu Great Wall
PVT-05: Forbidden City + Tian An Men Square + Temple of Heaven
PVT-06: Summer Palace + Lama Temple + Panda Garden
PVT-12: Mutianyu Great Wall + Ming Tomb
PVT-13: Summer Palace + Great Wall at Badaling

Available options

Private Tour Option PVT-12

PVT-12: Mutianyu Great Wall + Ming Tomb Pickup included

English-speaking Tour Guide

English-speaking Tour Guide ONLY Pickup included

Private Tour Option PVT-03

PVT-03: Great Wall at Badaling + Ming Tomb Pickup included

Private Tour Option PVT-01

PVT-01: Forbidden City + Tian An Men Square + Great Wall at Badaling Pickup included

Private Tour Option PVT-13

PVT-13: Summer Palace + Great Wall at Badaling Pickup included

Private Tour Option PVT-02

PVT-02: Forbidden City + Tian An Men Square + Temple of Heaven + Summer Palace Pickup included

Private Tour Option PVT-05

PVT-05: Forbidden City + Tian An Men Square + Temple of Heaven Pickup included

Tour Guide + Car to Badaling

Private English-speaking Tour Guide + Private Vehicle with a Professional Driver to Badaling or Juyongguan Great Wall Pickup included

Private Tour Option PVT-04

PVT-04: Mutianyu Great Wall Pickup included

Tour Guide + Car to Mutianyu

Private English-speaking Tour Guide + Private Vehicle with a Professional Driver to Mutianyu Great Wall Pickup included

Private Tour Option PVT-06

PVT-06: Summer Palace + Lama Temple + Panda Garden Pickup included

What's included

Chinese style lunch for private tour option only

Private tour vehicle with a professional driver for the private tour option only

Admission tickets for private tour option only

Professional English-speaking guide for 8 hours

Personalized day tour for cusom tour option

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The Forbidden City was built in 1406, which use to be Chinese Imperial Palace in Ming and Qing Dynasty. With over 180 acres and collection of great halls, you will see antiques and treasures representing all of China's history.

Stop 2

Build in 1415, Tian An Men Square is one of the largest squares in the would, with total size of over 40 hectares. It is the main entrance of the Forbidden City, and has an overview of the communist influences on the country.

Stop 3

Built in 1420, Temple of Heaven was where emperors went to worship heaven for good harvests. It is Chinas largest temple and altar complex, an extraordinary example of religious architecture dating back to the Ming and Qing Dynasty.

Stop 4

Summer Palace was built in 1750 during Qing Dynasty. It is the largest royal park and being well preserved. You will explore the grounds, the temples and the worlds longest art gallery.

Let us help you create your own personalized day in Beijing using public transport with a professional guide and interpreter. Well make it happen. Always wanted to tour the Hutongs by pedicab then visit the exquisite Lama Temple? Well put them both on your itinerary.

And you know about the unbelievable shopping in Beijing. Imagine having a personal guide take you where the locals shop, helping you bargain for the best prices on jewelry, handcrafts, antiques, art, fabrics or clothing. And whether you're shopping or sightseeing, well suggest the best places to eat in town. There's a world of cuisine in Beijing, plus all the traditional Chinese styles: Sichuan, Southern, Beijing style, Dim Sum and more.

Please note: This tour provides you with a professional English-speaking guide. You will be responsible for additional charges during the day such as taxis, bus fares, subway tickets, admission fees and food.

Stop 6

Great Wall is the very symbol of ancient Chinese engineering. The Badaling section is a prime, preserved example of this colossal structure. Since Spring and Autumn Period (770 BC - 476 BC) and Warring States Period (476 BC - 221 BC), Badaling became a very important military strategic place Many incomplete parts of the wall were proved to be built in the Warring States Period. Here you will have the opportunity to climb up either the North or South Face of the Wall.

Stop 7

Mutianyu Great Wall is much steeper than Badaling Great Wall, and a more challenging climb. This section is older than Badaling, and features outer and inner parapets. There are 22 watch-towers in the 2250-meter-long Mutianyu Great Wall, and the highest one is 540 meters above sea level. This section of the wall is also surrounded by woodland and streams. The Great Wall takes on different looks in different seasons. In spring, flowers are blooming. In summer, the Great Wall is lush and green. In winter, the Great Wall is covered with white snow. However, the Great Wall’s most charming season is autumn, when fruits ripen and leaves of gorgeously diverse color fall at this photogenic spot.

What's not included

Temple of Heaven

Forbidden City

Great Wall

Summer Palace

Available languages

Guide guide

CMN EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.3

114 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 3.8

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

You MUST contact tour operator at least 48 hours prior to arrival to arrange your personalized itinerary requirements, sightseeing and things to do.

Important notes

•You will be responsible for additional charges during the day such as taxis, bus fares, subway tickets, admission fees and foodItinerary Planning for Custom Tour Option.
•If you have enjoyed yourselves on the tour, a suggested tip of approx. USD 5-10 per
person for the tour guide and approx. USD 2 per person for the driver is encouraged.
•To arrange your personalized itinerary requirements, sightseeing and things to do, contact Wendy at least 48hours prior to arrival.

Email at wendy@hantangtour.com (mailto: wendy@hangtangtour.com)

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