Summer Palace Discovery Small Group Tour with Expert Guide
Gallery image 2
Gallery image 3
Gallery image 4
Gallery image 5

Summer Palace Discovery Small Group Tour with Expert Guide

Active
(2 reviews)
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore Beijing's stunning Summer Palace with our Small Group Tour!
Discover the tranquility of ancient imperial gardens and pavilions.
Join like-minded travelers for an intimate and personalized experience. Capture breathtaking views of Kunming Lake and the iconic Marble Boat. Admire the intricate artwork along the famous Long Corridor. Learn about China's rich history and royal heritage from expert guides. Relax and unwind in the serene surroundings of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Book now to secure your spot and create unforgettable memories!

Available options

Summer Palace Discovery: Small Group tour with Expert Guide

Private Tour to Summer Palace

Boat Ride on Kunming Lake: Experience the Summer Palace from a new perspective with our enchanting Boat Ride on Kunming Lake! <br/>Duration: 4 hours: adventure to Nanhu Island and the iconic 17-Arch Bridge at the Summer Palace

What's included

Entrance ticket to Summer Palace
Expert tour guide
Small group tour (maximum of 12 participants)

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

The tour starting at Exit A of BEIGONGMEN Subway Station offers visitors easy access to this iconic site.

The Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Beijing, China, is a masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design. Built during the Qing Dynasty, it served as a retreat for emperors seeking respite from the summer heat.

During your tour, you'll explore highlights such as the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity, the Long Corridor adorned with intricate paintings, the Marble Boat, and the Secret Garden Xiequyuan. Strolling through meticulously landscaped gardens and along the tranquil lakeside paths, you'll immerse yourself in the rich history and exquisite beauty of this imperial retreat.

With its blend of natural scenery and architectural splendor, a visit to the Summer Palace offers a captivating journey through China's cultural heritage and imperial grandeur.

Finally you guide accompanies you to the East Gate of Summer Palace or Subway Station to finish the tours.

What's not included

Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Tips to guide(for good services)
Boat Ride in Summer Palace(40RMB/P)

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Your guide will meet you at Exit A, BEIGONGMEN subway station of line 4, you can take subway or taxi here, show the taxi driver address in Chinese: 颐和园北宫门地铁A口.

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

Adults
Age 1-80
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 12
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

Similar Experiences

Similar on Klook