Forbidden City, Summer Palace & Great Wall Day Tour

Highlights

• Discover 3 unmissable, must-see Beijing royal landmarks in one action-packed day
• Blends iconic royal palaces, serene imperial gardens&the majestic Great Wall
• English-speaking guides with 10+years of experience, unfolding Ming&Qing stories
• All-inclusive package, no hidden fees: tickets, guide, driver & authentic lunch
• Exclusive private tour, allowing you to explore at your own pace without rushing

Description

Your English-speaking guide and private driver will pick you up from your downtown Beijing hotel, ensuring a comfortable and convenient start to your royal adventure. First Stop: Forbidden City – As the imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties, the Forbidden City is a masterpiece of ancient Chinese architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Accompanied by your guide, you will explore the core of this magnificent palace complex, following a carefully curated route to visit its unmissable attractions, including the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the Hall of Central Harmony and the Hall of Preserving Harmony which served as venues for imperial ceremonies, rest before rituals, and imperial examinations respectively. After visiting the outer court (where state affairs were handled), you will proceed to the inner court, once the private residence of emperors, empresses, concubines, and eunuchs. Your guide will share vivid stories behind each courtyard and building, bringing the imperial life of ancient China to life. Next Stop: Summer Palace – A classic imperial garden with a history of over 2,000 years, the Summer Palace is renowned as the 'Garden of Gardens' and another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Originally built as a royal retreat, it was later expanded and renovated by Empress Dowager Cixi, who spent a great deal of imperial funds on its construction. Guided by your tour guide, you will visit the main halls where the empress dowager handled state affairs in her later years and her private residence, gaining insight into the power and life of this influential figure in late Qing history. Take a leisurely stroll along the Long Corridor, the longest covered corridor in the world, adorned with more than 14,000 colorful paintings on its beams and ceilings. Your guide will reveal the stories and meanings behind these exquisite artworks. Admire the stunning scenery of Kunming Lake and end your visit at the Marble Boat—a unique structure built to symbolize the stability of the Qing Dynasty, with a fascinating story behind its design. After lunch, head to Juyongguan Great Wall – Unlike other crowded sections of the Great Wall, Juyongguan Great Wall boasts a serene and majestic atmosphere, with well-preserved ancient architecture and breathtaking mountain views. As one of the most important passes of the Great Wall in ancient times, it was known as the 'First Pass Under Heaven' and played a crucial role in defending the northern border of the Ming Dynasty. Your guide will walk with you along the wall, explaining its historical significance, military functions, and architectural features. You will have ample free time to explore the wall at your own pace—climb as far as you like, take photos with the stunning mountain backdrop, and soak in the grandeur of this world-famous historical wonder. After the tour, your driver and guide will send you back to your downtown Beijing hotel, bringing your unforgettable royal one-day tour to a perfect end.

Includes

English-speaking guide Private transportation Hotel pickup and drop-off Entrance fee Lunch

Excludes

Personal expenses Gratuities Entrance fee to additional museums inside the Forbidden City and Summer Palace

Important Information

• 1. We require the full name and passport of each participant; this document must be the one used on the tour day for purchasing all entrance tickets. 2. The itinerary for this day is relatively tight, so please rest well in advance to fully enjoy the tour. 3. Forbidden Items in the Forbidden City: Weapons, controlled knives, flammable and explosive items (including lighters, matches, alcohol), camping equipment (tents, picnic mats, camp carts), commercial photography equipment (tripods, stabilizers, rails), scooters, balance bikes and other non-essential mobility tools (wheelchairs and strollers for the elderly, children and the disabled are allowed). Pets and items that may damage cultural relics (paints, ropes, etc.) are also prohibited. 4. Please wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves a lot of walking throughout the day. 5. In summer, please bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat and other sun protection items to cope with the strong sunlight.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund