Half Day Walking Tour to Tiananmen Square and Forbidden City
Active
3h - 4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This a half-day walking tour of several UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Beijing, must see heritage attractions in Beijing. Start with a look at the monuments of Tiananmen Square, then tour the immense Forbidden City complex with your knowledgeable tour guide.We could help you to buy Forbidden City ticket in advance. The 4 differents starting time for every day.
Available options
Private Tour+hotel pickup
Half day private tour: Pickup at your city center hotel. Please leave your hotel information at special requirement.
Group tour+Tour guide
Meet at Grand Hotel Beijing: Both Metro Line 1 and Metro Line 8 can be reached from exits A, B, and C of Wangfujing Metro Station北京贵宾楼酒店，北京市东城区东长安街35号
What's included
Professional guide
Entrance ticket
Hotel pickup(only available for private tour option)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Picked by our tour guide at your hotel between 8am to 1pm or meet the guide at the meeting point at 8am or 13:00 pm. Then head to Tiananmen Square, the largest public square of this kind in the world. Located in the heart of Beijing City, it is the site for massive parades and rallies.This was the site when in 1949, from a rostrum on Tiananmen (the Gate of Heavenly Peace), Chairman Mao proclaimed the establishment of the People's Republic of China.
For security reason, Tiananmen Square is a fenced square circled by low iron grids with main four entrances – east, west, south and north. The square is now open to the public till sunset, but all the tourists have to pass a security check before they enter the square. So check points have been set up at all the entrances leading to the square.
2
Stop 2
Pass by
Have a glimpse at the outside of Memorial Hall of Chairman Mao, the Monument to the People's Heroes, the magnificent Great Hall of the People, the National Museum of China, the ancient Zhengyang Gate and Arrow Tower as well as the Tiananmen Tower which leads to the well-known Forbidden City.
3
Stop 3
Then move on to the Imperial Palace, also known as the "Forbidden City" , the largest and best-preserved ancient imperial palaces group with 500 years history. We will buy ticket in advance to skip the line. The palace was built between 1406 and 1420, but was burnt down, rebuilt, sacked and renovated countless times, so most of the architecture you can see today dates from the 1700's and onwards. You will have a highlight tour of the Forbidden City. Afterward, you will end the tour at the north exit of Forbidden City. Please feel free to ask tour guide help you to get taxi or bus to your own next destination.
Note: A current valid passport is required on the day of travel.
4
Stop 4
Pass by
Visiting
5
Stop 5
Pass by
Visiting
6
Visiting
7
Stop 7
Visiting
What's not included
Gratuities
Hotel drop off
Souvenirs
Available languages
Guide guide
CMN
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
13 reviews
5★
12
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
27 reviews
5★
27
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Chinese tourists( including Taiwan and Hongkong ) must book over 8 days in advance.
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Please note: Passport name and number is required at time of booking for “all participants” upon booking
Passport is required for all travelers on the day of travel for direct entry. (not for Chinese tourist)
Meeting point
Meet your guide at 8am/13:00 pm in front of Grand Hotel Beijing.
Includes guide+ticket: You can reach here: Both Metro Line 1 and Metro Line 8 can be reached from exits A, B, and C of Wangfujing Metro Station北京贵宾楼酒店，北京市东城区东长安街35号
Important notes
Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.
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
