Busda-Private Sightseeing: Forbidden City and The Great Wall
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience one of the most unique private sightseeing tours in Beijing with this full-day journey that combines imperial history with ancient wilderness. Start your day with a walking tour of the Forbidden City, the world's largest and best-preserved imperial palace, where you'll explore golden roofs, grand halls, and hidden courtyards with rich cultural stories. In the afternoon, escape the crowds with a visit to the Ancient Great Wall at Badaling, a lesser-known yet striking section ideal for hikers and adventure seekers. Unlike standard routes, this tour offers a peaceful, authentic atmosphere with original stones and rugged mountain views. Designed as a private and luxury experience, this full-day tour allows for flexible pacing and in-depth discovery, perfect for travelers seeking something beyond the typical city tours. A truly unforgettable and rare insight into China's majestic past.
Available options
ForbiddenCity&AncientWall Tour
Private Guided Full-Day Tour: Entrance ticket, English-speaking guide, private car with driver, Beijing roast duck lunch included.
Ancient Great Wall Bus Tours
Full-Day Guided Bus Tour: Entry tickets of two Great Wall, English guide and bus transfer included. Lunch and cable car not included.<br/>Starting point:<br/>地铁北土城站, Chaoyang, China, 100017
Ancient GreatWall Private Tour
Private Guided Full-Day Tour: Entrance ticket, English-speaking guide, private car with driver, Beijing roast duck lunch included. <br/>Starting point:<br/>Beijing, China<br/>Pickup included
Forbidden City Half Day Tour
Private Guided Half-Day Tour: Entrance ticket and English-speaking tour guide included. No car service<br/>Duration: 4 hours<br/>Starting point:<br/>Meridian Gate, 4 Jing Shan Qian Jie, Dong Cheng Qu, China, 100009
What's included
Round-trip transportation by air-conditioned bus (if option selected)
English-speaking guide (if option selected)
Entrance Ticket to the Sites
Peking Duck Lunch (if option selected)
Private tour with hotel pickup and drop-off (if option selected)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Explore the grandeur of China's imperial past with a visit to the Forbidden City — Beijing’s historic gem and the world’s largest ancient palace complex. Once the exclusive domain of 24 emperors from the Ming and Qing dynasties, this UNESCO-listed site invites you into a world of tradition, power, and elegance. Wander through massive red gates, admire golden roofs gleaming under the sun, and discover intricate halls and peaceful courtyards that echo centuries of royal life. From the awe-inspiring Hall of Supreme Harmony to the tranquil Imperial Garden and priceless palace artifacts, every corner reveals the richness of Chinese heritage. The Forbidden City is more than just an architectural wonder — it’s a living museum offering deep insights into court life, politics, and artistry. Whether you’re passionate about history or simply curious, this iconic landmark delivers an immersive and unforgettable experience at the heart of Beijing.
2
Escape the crowds and discover a hidden gem of the Great Wall — the Badaling Ancient Section. Unlike the busy main entrance of Badaling, this quieter, lesser-known area offers a more authentic and tranquil experience. With fewer tourists, it’s ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful hike through history. The rugged stone paths, original watchtowers, and untouched scenery bring you closer to the Wall’s ancient past. Surrounded by dramatic mountain views, this section allows for uninterrupted exploration and breathtaking photo opportunities. If you’re a hiker or nature lover, this route provides a rewarding challenge and a deeper connection to the landscape. It’s a rare chance to walk in the footsteps of history without the crowds. Perfect for those who value adventure, serenity, and cultural authenticity — the Badaling Ancient Great Wall is a unique and unforgettable experience in Beijing.
What's not included
Personal expenses
Cable car 140rmb per person(optional)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Important notes
Please provide the passport details individually; this is mandatory
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
