Private Beijing City Highlight Tour with Calligraphy Class
Active
8h
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, a private guide can transform the Beijing experience. Say no to hustlers and discover the city by private car or public transportation on this door-to-door private tour. Check off Beijing’s biggest attractions—Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square-and stroll through historic Hutong alleys. Immerse yourself at Hutong Calligraphy Class with an excellent culture experience. A comprehensive package with private private guide, entrance fees, taxi fare, lunch and Calligraphy Class are all inclusive
Available options
Tour with Calligraphy Class
Duration: 8 hours: Private tour with lunch, Entrance fees, Rickshaw fee, Calligraphy class fee, private guide, Taxi fare are all inclusive<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Entrance fees
Taxi fare (Within 3rd Ring Road)
Calligraphy Class Fee
Excellent English Speaking Tour Guide
Lunch
IMPORTANT: this tour need to be booked 8 days before your travel date
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Your friendly private tour guide will meet you at 9:00am in your hotel lobby. Then, you will be transferred to Tiananmen Square. The largest city plaza in the world. Learning the revolutionary period of history. Stroll along the Tiananmen Square(Tiananmen Guangchang), Admire the Great Hall of the People (Renmin Dahuitang), National Museum Of China, Chairman Mao Memorial Hall (Maozhuxi Jiniangtang), Monument of the People's Heroes and Gate of Heavenly Peace (Tian'an Men).
2
Stop 2
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.
3
Savor a delightful Beijing style lunch, Then head to Hutong Calligraphy Class. Practice the ancient art of Chinese calligraphy, and walk away with a special memento, get ready to flex your creative muscles. Learn more about the practice and try different techniques, and leave with a brand new set of skills.
4
Stop 4
Stroll along the Back Lakes (Houhai) with rickshaw & foot. Back lakes is old neighborhood that local beijingners live. The Hutong date back to Yuan Dynasty with over 700 years history. Hou Lake, Yandai Xie Street, Yinding Bridge, Beigongfang Hutong,Shichahai Scenic Resort and experience people's life, culture and history. It is the true gem of Beijing.
5
Get yourself the very best Jasmine Tea, Chrysanthemum Tea , Green Tea or Oolong tea in Beijing People's favorable Wuyutai Tea Shop along the way if you are tea drinker.
6
Stop 6
Beijing's oldest commercial street, It is lined in traditional-style stone buildings that house charming souvenir and handicraft shops. At the end of tour, your tour guide will transfer you back to your lovely hotel.
What's not included
Taxi fare at your own expense (Outside of 3rd Ring Road)
Gratuities (Recommended)
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 pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
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
