Exclusive Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Private Day Tour

Beijing , China

Exclusive Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Private Day Tour

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About this experience

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Beijing's rich history and breathtaking landscapes with our exclusive one-day private tour to Mutianyu Great Wall and the Summer Palace.

Begin your day with a personalized pick-up from your hotel, where your knowledgeable guide and private driver await. First stop: Mutianyu Great Wall, renowned for its rugged beauty and fewer crowds, allowing for a serene exploration of this iconic wonder. After marveling at its grandeur, enjoy a sumptuous lunch at a local restaurant.

Next, delve into the imperial splendor of the Summer Palace, a masterpiece of classical Chinese garden design. Wander through tranquil pavilions, stroll along picturesque lakeshores, and admire the renowned Long Corridor.

Throughout the day, enjoy the flexibility of a private tour tailored to your interests, ensuring an enriching and memorable experience of Beijing's cultural treasures. Book your adventure today and create lasting memories of China's glorious past.

Available options

Exclusive Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Private Day Tour

Pickup included

Spanish/French/German guide

Other language tour guide : Spanish/French/German/Italian/Russian speaking tour guide available <br/>Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Professional tour guide

Transport by private vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

In the morning, your experienced English-speaking tour guide and chauffeur will greet you at your hotel's lobby. Your journey will commence with a scenic drive of approximately 1.5 hours to reach the Mutianyu Great Wall, located in a less congested area of Beijing. Renowned for its stunning natural surroundings, including dense forests and verdant pastures that transition beautifully throughout the seasons, this segment of the Great Wall stretches over 1000 meters to the peak of a mountain, before descending sharply downhill. You'll have approximately two hours to immerse yourself in exploration. Whether you opt for a leisurely hike, a cable car or chair lift ascent, or even a thrilling toboggan ride to slide down, there are various ways to ascend to the Wall.

Stop 2

Once you've savored a delicious lunch at a nearby eatery, the next stop on your adventure is the Summer Palace. Just a little over an hour's drive from the Great Wall, this magnificent palace was once the royal garden. Here, you'll discover a mesmerizing array of pavilions, mansions, temples, bridges, and a vast lake, all surrounded by picturesque corridors. One highlight is the Long Corridor, a record-holder for being the world's longest. Don't miss iconic sights like the Seventeen Arches Bridge, the Qingyan Stone Boat, the serene Kunming Lake, and the majestic Longevity Hill. After your tour, we'll transfer you back to your hotel, rounding off an unforgettable day of exploration and discovery.

Stop 3

The Long Corridor at the Summer Palace is an iconic architectural marvel, renowned for its grandeur and historical significance. Stretching over 700 meters, it holds the distinction of being the longest covered corridor in the world. Adorned with intricate paintings and adorned ceilings, this corridor provides a captivating stroll, offering shelter from the elements while immersing visitors in the rich cultural heritage of China. Its construction dates back to the 18th century during the Qing Dynasty, and it remains a testament to the opulence and craftsmanship of that era. As you wander through its corridors, you'll encounter vibrant depictions of Chinese mythology, folklore, and historical events, making it a must-see attraction for anyone exploring the Summer Palace.

The Qingyan Stone Boat, nestled within the Summer Palace, is a remarkable architectural wonder crafted entirely from stone. Built during the 18th century, it stands as a symbol of imperial extravagance and artistic prowess. This ornate structure resembles a traditional Chinese boat, complete with intricate carvings and detailed designs. Despite its solid construction, the boat appears to float gracefully on the tranquil waters of Kunming Lake, adding a touch of whimsy to the palace's serene surroundings. A testament to the ingenuity of its creators, the Qingyan Stone Boat continues to captivate visitors with its timeless beauty and historical significance.

Xiequyuan, nestled within Beijing's Summer Palace, is a picturesque garden renowned for its tranquility and exquisite design. Translating to "Harmony and Pleasure Garden," it was initially constructed during the Qing Dynasty and later expanded in the 19th century. This enchanting retreat features classical Chinese architecture, including pavilions, bridges, and winding pathways, amidst lush vegetation and serene waterways. Visitors can wander through its scenic landscapes, dotted with colorful flowers and ancient trees, while marveling at the intricate details of its structures. Xiequyuan offers a serene escape from the bustling city, inviting guests to immerse themselves in its timeless beauty and peaceful ambiance.
After you finish the tour in Summer Palace, it will be about 30-50 minutes back to your hotel in the city.

What's not included

Dragon Boat cruise in Summer Palace(40RMB/person)

Gratuities to guide and driver

Lunch

Cable car round trip or ski lift up and toboggan ticket

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

6 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Transportation time from and to the Great Wall about 3 hours depending on traffic

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