Half-Day Private Forbidden City Tour in Depth
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Particularly for first-time visitors who don’t speak Chinese, Say no to hustlers and discover the city on this private tour. Enjoy time with your English-speaking guide, and walk through Forbidden City leisurely while your guide tells you fascinating stories of their significance. Check off Beijing’s biggest attraction of Beijing—The Forbidden City. Book your Forbidden City tickets prior to your visit.
1: Half Day private tour of Forbidden City in depth
2: Capture photos of the Forbidden City from the classic viewpoint
3: Choose between morning or afternoon tours to suit your schedule
4: Take it easy with pickup and drop-off direct from your hotel
Available options
All Inclusive Tour
Duration: 5 hours: Private Tour Guide, Entrance Fees, Lunch, premier taxi fare are all inclusive. <br/>Pickup included
What's included
Taxi fare within 4th Rind Road
Entrance Fees
Lunch
Private Tour
Excellent English Speaking Tour Guide
IMPORTANT: this tour need to be booked 8 days before your travel date
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Important: This tour need booked 8 days before. Otherwise no Forbidden City tickets Available. Your friendly private tour guide will meet you in your hotel lobby. Then You will be transferred to Forbidden City. Visit the 600 years old palace, Forbidden city-The Palace Museum. Forbidden City, It is the largest Imperial Palace in the world and listed in the world UNESCO Heritage. It used to be the Royal Palace for 24 emperors from Ming and Qing Dynasty. Explore the Hall of Great Supremacy (Taihe Dian), Hall of Middle Harmony (Zhonghe Dian), Hall of Preserving Harmony (Baohedian), Palace of Heavenly Purity, Chuxiu Palace, Turret of The Palace Museum,The Imperial Garden of The Palace Museum and Meridian Gate (Wumen). Please watch the movie of "The last emperor" before your trip to Beijing. you will spend about 2 hours here. Listen countless old stories from your tour guide. Get to know the Palace at your own pace.
2
The Largest Hall within the Forbidden City. Stunning Wooden Architecture. Take a Glimpse at the emperor's throne. The Royal political place where 24 emperors gave his presentation to the official here in Chinese history
3
Visit the Hall of Preserving Harmony. It is the 2nd largest Hall of Forbidden city. The ancient national royal examine took place and banquets party for royal family as well. then, visit the most stunning clock museum that exhibit the precious pieces from Ming and Qing Dynasty. Then, have a coffee break
4
The Palace of Heavenly Purity used to be Empress's Sleeping Chamber in The Ming Dynasty, then it become a wedding Palace for emperors and pray hall as well.
5
Savor a delightful lunch in the imperial restaurant in the Forbidden City. Continue your tour to the Palace of Compassion and Tranquility, Palace of Longevity and Health and the garden of the Tranquil longevity well known as the Qianlong Garden. It used to be residence for emperor's mothers. The palace of Compassion and Tranquility exhibit the Stones and Bricks Reliefs from Hang Dynasty with over 1800 years old history, You will find 3 terra cotta army here as well from Xi'an. In west courtyards you will see the imperial bed, thrones for emperor's mother and Qianlong Garden at the southern side of the Palace. The garden consist of unique Taihu rocks, pavilions, pine and cypress trees and peony flowers.
6
Visit the concubine's palace, Chunxi Hall. Learn concubine's life. Chuxiu Palace was ever Cixi's residential palace of the Palace Museum. You will see the imperial dowager Cixi's bed and display from 1884.
7
Stop 7
Visit the imperial Garden in the Forbidden City. In the spring Beautiful garden with blooming peonies, pine trees, pagodas and natural limestone sculptures. If the weather is nice, with an optional choice of hiking up Jingshan Park, enjoy a bird eye of Forbidden city and Beijing city skyline. Please prepare your 15,000 step/38 floors hiking. At the end of the tour, your tour guide will transfer you back to your lovely hotel.
What's not included
Gratuities
Taxi fare at your own expenses Outside 4th Ring Road
Any other expenses that not listed as included
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
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
