How to Plan Your 2-Day Small Group Tour in Beijing
If you’re planning to visit Beijing, there are certain attractions that you cannot miss. Among them are the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace and the Great Wall of China. Although it is possible to visit these sights on your own, a guided tour is the best way to make the most of your time and learn about the history and culture of these iconic places. In this blog post, we will show you how to plan a 2-day small group tour in Beijing that covers these three UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Day 1: Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and Summer Palace
Your tour begins with a convenient pickup at your hotel within the third ring road of Beijing. You’ll travel in an air-conditioned minivan with a professional English speaking guide and driver. The first destination is Tiananmen Square, the political and cultural center of Beijing. Here, you’ll see the Monument to the People’s Heroes, the Great Hall of the People, and the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall. Your guide will share fascinating insights into the history and significance of the Square.
Next up is the Forbidden City, the largest imperial palace complex in the world. You’ll explore the inner courtyards, halls and pavilions, learning about the life of Chinese emperors and the intricate architecture and design of the complex. Following this, there will be time for lunch (at your own expense) before the tour continues to the Summer Palace, a tranquil oasis of gardens, lakes, and palaces.
The Summer Palace is one of the best-preserved royal gardens in the world and covers an area of more than 290 hectares. You’ll stroll over the Seventeen-Arch Bridge, enjoy views of Kunming Lake, visit the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity, and take in the imperial decoration and natural beauty of the palace.
Day 2: Great Wall of China at Mutianyu
On day two, you’ll head to the Great Wall of China at Mutianyu, one of the most popular and scenic sections of the wall. You’ll have the option to ascend to the top of the wall on foot or via cable car. Once you reach the wall, you’ll have plenty of time to explore and take photos. It’s an impressive sight and an unforgettable experience.
At Mutianyu, you can visit the wall at your own pace, or walk with one of the guides from the tour, who will explain the history and significance of the Great Wall. You can take in the sweeping views of the surrounding landscape or relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Don’t forget to snap a selfie or two, and give yourself a pat on the back – this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
What’s Included
This small-group tour is capped at 12 participants to ensure a personalized experience. Along with the air-conditioned, chauffeur-driven minivan, knowledgeable English-speaking guide, and driver, your package includes:
- Entrance fees to all attractions
- Pick up and drop off service to anywhere within the third ring road of Beijing
- Hotel accommodation pickup and drop-off
- All taxes, fees and handling charges
- Bottled water
Please note that meals are not included, but the tour guide will suggest suitable restaurants for your lunch break.
Conclusion
A 2-day small group tour is an excellent way to experience three of Beijing’s most famous landmarks: the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace, and the Great Wall of China. This tour provides you with an immersive and educational experience, and is suitable for both individual travelers and small groups. The knowledgeable and friendly guide ensures that you get the most out of your trip, with plenty of opportunities for photos and questions along the way.
To book your tour, visit here, and get ready for an unforgettable experience in Beijing!
Beijing: Answers to the Most Frequently Asked Questions
Beijing is an ancient city rich in history, culture, and traditions. As the capital of China, it is a hub of innovation and modernity while also being home to iconic landmarks such as the Great Wall of China, Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven. In this post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Beijing, providing you with all the necessary information to plan your trip.
1. What is the best time to visit Beijing?
The best time to visit Beijing is during spring from April to June or during autumn from September to November. During these seasons, the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear. In the spring, the temperatures range from 50°F to 77°F (10°C to 25°C), and the flowers are in full bloom. Autumn is also a great time to visit with temperatures ranging from 55°F to 73°F (13°C to 23°C), and the city’s leaves take on a beautiful orange, yellow and red hue.
2. What is the recommended length of stay in Beijing?
If you want to see all the major attractions and immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of the city, you should plan to spend at least five days in Beijing. This duration will give you enough time to visit places like the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, and the Forbidden City while also having time to explore the different localities and neighborhoods.
3. How do I get around Beijing?
Beijing has a comprehensive transport system that consists of buses, subways, taxis, and ride-sharing services. The subway is the most convenient mode of transportation as it is fast, affordable, and accessible. You can purchase a refundable transit card, which you can top up as per your needs, and use it for any mode of transport. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available, but it can be hard to find English speaking drivers in some areas, so it’s advisable to have the address of your destination written in Chinese.
4. What are the must-see landmarks in Beijing?
Beijing is full of iconic landmarks that speak to both the city’s history and its modernity. Some of the must-see landmarks include:
- The Great Wall of China: This ancient wall stretches for over 20,000 kilometers and is a symbol of China’s strength and determination.
- The Forbidden City: This former imperial palace has over 9,000 rooms and is now a museum showcasing Chinese art and history.
- Tiananmen Square: This is the largest city square in the world and an important landmark in Chinese history.
- The Temple of Heaven: This ancient temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is surrounded by a beautiful park where locals practice Tai Chi and other martial arts.
- The Summer Palace: This iconic palace is a stunning example of Chinese architecture and garden design.
5. What are some popular foods to try in Beijing?
Beijing has a vibrant culinary scene that offers something for every taste bud. Some of the most popular local dishes include:
- Beijing roast duck: This iconic dish is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, and it’s served with pancakes, scallions, and sauce.
- Jianbing: A popular street food breakfast consisting of a crispy pancake filled with egg, bean paste, cilantro, and other toppings.
- Lamb skewers: Juicy and flavorful skewered lamb marinated with spices such as cumin and chili and grilled over charcoal.
- Zha jiang mian: A traditional Beijing noodle dish served with a rich soybean sauce, cucumber, and onion.
6. What are some cultural practices that visitors should be aware of in Beijing?
As with any culture, visitors to Beijing should be aware of cultural norms and practices to avoid causing offense or disrespect. Some cultural practices to keep in mind in Beijing include:
- Removing your shoes before entering a home or temple.
- Bowing as a sign of respect when meeting someone older or higher in rank.
- Not pointing with your finger as it is considered rude. Instead, use an open palm, the whole hand or nod in the direction.
- Avoiding touching someone on the head as it is considered disrespectful.
7. What is the local currency in Beijing, and how can I get it?
The local currency in Beijing is the Chinese Yuan (CNY), also known as Renminbi (RMB). You can get it at any bank or currency exchange, and it’s recommended to bring some cash as some vendors and shops may not accept cards. Major credit cards are acceptable in most hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions.
8. Is Beijing a safe city to visit?
Beijing is generally a safe city to visit. However, visitors should exercise the normal safety precautions such as avoiding shady areas, staying alert in crowded places, and keeping your valuables safe.
9. What are some souvenirs to buy in Beijing?
Beijing is well-known for its traditional crafts like porcelain, silk, and jade items. Some unique souvenirs to bring back from Beijing include:
- Beijing Opera Masks: Colorful and decorative masks used in traditional Chinese operas.
- Tea: Beijing offers some of the best teas in China, such as Longjing Green Tea and Bai Hao Yinzhen White Tea.
- Cloisonné: Intricate enamelware created by soldering patterns over copper or bronze vases, bowls, and other ceramics.
- Paper Cutouts: Intricately designed artwork created by cutting paper to create beautiful shapes like flowers, animals, and characters.
Final Thoughts
Beijing is a fascinating city that offers a rich blend of tradition and modernity. By knowing the answers to these frequently asked questions, you will be better prepared for your trip and can make the most of your visit. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or food, Beijing offers something for everyone.
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