How to Plan Your 2 Days Essential Beijing Private Tour with Great Wall and Forbidden City

Planning a tour in a foreign country can be an overwhelming experience, but with this 2-day private tour, you can make the most of your time in Beijing. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through how to plan your perfect Beijing tour with the Great Wall and Forbidden City itinerary.

Overview

This private tour is an action-packed 2-day itinerary designed to take the stress out of planning transport and make sure you can see as much of Beijing as possible. You’ll be picked up from your centrally located hotel by a licensed English-speaking guide and travel to various sites in a comfortable private vehicle. Places you’ll visit include Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Mutianyu Great Wall, and Summer Palace.

Day 1

Pickup will start from 8:30 AM at your centrally located hotel in Beijing. The first destination on this tour is Tiananmen Square, which is the largest public square in the world. You’ll learn about the history of the square and its importance to Chinese culture as you stroll around it. From there, you’ll head to the Forbidden City, where you’ll explore the imperial palace where the emperors of China once held court. The Forbidden City is a masterpiece of Chinese architecture and is known for its intricate design and immense scale. After a full day of exploring, you’ll end the day with a traditional Chinese dinner that will leave you feeling satisfied and immersed in the local culture.

Day 2

After breakfast at your hotel, you’ll set off on a journey to the Great Wall at Mutianyu, which will take around 1.5 hours by road. This section of the Great Wall is less crowded and provides an excellent opportunity to explore at your leisure. You can take a cable car or chairlift up to the wall and hike along the length of the wall, enjoying the stunning panoramic views along the way. After visiting the Great Wall, you’ll head to Temple of Heaven, an ancient complex of temples and altars that was used by emperors to offer sacrifices to the gods. Finally, you’ll visit Summer Palace, a beautiful imperial garden that was once a summer retreat for the emperors.

What’s included

This private tour includes everything you’ll need to make the most of your Beijing experience. Your licensed English-speaking tour guide will be with you throughout the tour, explaining the history and culture of each site you visit. You won’t need to arrange any transport, as hotel pickup and drop-off are included, as well as transport between each site in a comfortable private vehicle. You’ll also enjoy a dinner on the first day and accommodation at a hotel.

Why choose a private tour

By choosing a private tour, you’ll have the freedom to explore at your own pace and be able to customize the itinerary to your preferences. You won’t have to wait around for other travelers, and you’ll benefit from the knowledge and expertise of your personal tour guide. The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off and private transportation makes this the perfect stress-free way to see Beijing.

Book your tour

Ready to see the best of Beijing in just 2 days? Book your Essential Beijing Private Tour with Great Wall and Forbidden City online at the Viator website and get ready for an unforgettable experience.

FAQ About Beijing

Beijing, China’s capital city, is a bustling metropolis with a rich history and culture. Millions of tourists visit Beijing each year to explore famous landmarks, learn about the nation’s history and sample local delicacies. In this FAQ, we will answer many of the common questions tourists have about Beijing.

1. What is Beijing known for?

Beijing is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, arts, and culinary delights. Beijing is home to many famous landmarks and attractions such as the Great Wall of China, The Forbidden City, The Summer Palace, The Temple of Heaven, and Tiananmen Square.

2. What is the best time of year to visit Beijing?

The best time to visit Beijing is in the spring (April to May) or fall (September to October). The weather is mild during these seasons, making outdoor activities pleasant. In winter (December – February), Beijing becomes quite cold and may not be ideal for outdoor activities.

3. Do I need a visa to visit Beijing?

Yes, tourists are required to obtain a visa to visit Beijing or any part of China. The Chinese Embassy or consulate in your country can guide you through the visa application process.

4. What is the currency of Beijing and what is the exchange rate?

The currency of Beijing is the Chinese yuan (CNY). The exchange rate fluctuates, but as of August 2021, 1 CNY equals 0.15 USD.

5. What language is spoken in Beijing?

The official language of Beijing is Mandarin Chinese. However, many locals can speak English, especially in tourist areas.

6. What are some must-visit attractions in Beijing?

Some of the must-visit attractions in Beijing include:

• The Great Wall of China
• The Forbidden City
• The Temple of Heaven
• The Summer Palace
• Tiananmen Square
• The Beijing National Stadium

7. What is the best way to get around Beijing?

Beijing has a comprehensive public transport system, including the subway, buses, taxis, and bicycles. The subway is a convenient and affordable way to navigate the city. Taxis can also be an affordable option, and many are equipped with meters. Bike rentals are also available throughout the city.

8. What is the food like in Beijing?

Beijing is famous for its delicious cuisine, which is dominated by meat dishes and dumplings. Some of the city’s popular dishes include:

• Peking Duck
• Mongolian Hot Pot
• Jiaozi (Chinese dumplings)
• Kao Ya (Roast duck)
• Ma Po Tofu (Spicy tofu dish)

9. What is the nightlife like in Beijing?

Beijing has a vibrant nightlife scene, with bars, clubs, and night markets. Some of the popular nightlife districts in Beijing include Sanlitun, Houhai, and Gulou.

10. What should I know about Beijing’s culture?

Chinese culture emphasizes respect for others, especially family elders and those in authority. It is also customary to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home. Gift-giving is common, and it is good practice to present a small gift when visiting someone’s home or office.

11. Is Beijing safe for tourists?

Beijing is a generally safe city, and violent crimes are rare. However, petty theft such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist areas. Tourists are advised to practice common sense safety measures such as keeping valuables out of sight and being aware of their surroundings.

12. Are there any etiquette rules I should know before visiting Beijing?

When visiting Beijing, you should:

• Use both hands to receive or pass any item, such as business cards or gifts.
• Bow slightly when greeting someone.
• Remove your shoes before entering a temple or someone’s home.
• Avoid discussing politics or sensitive topics.
• Avoid touching someone’s head, since it is considered disrespectful in Chinese culture.

Book Your Tour Now

Beijing is a fascinating city with a rich history and culture. Whether you’re interested in exploring historic landmarks or trying delicious cuisine, Beijing has something for everyone. By following local customs, practicing safety measures, and exploring the city using its public transport system, you’ll undoubtedly have a fantastic time in Beijing.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Beijing

If you are planning to visit Beijing, congratulations! You are about to discover one of the most beautiful cities in the world that is full of history, culture, and incredible sights. However, with so much to see and do, it can be challenging to decide how to allocate your time in this metropolis. In this guide, we will provide some recommendations on how to spend your time as a tourist in Beijing.

1. Visit the Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is quite possibly the most iconic landmark in the world, and it is situated just an hour and a half outside of Beijing. The best time to visit the Great Wall of China is between March and May or September and November, when the temperatures are mild and the crowds are fewer.

How to Get There

There are a few ways to get to the Great Wall of China from Beijing. The most popular way is to hire a driver or join a tour group. Another option is to take public transportation via bus or train, but that can be challenging if you don’t speak Chinese.

What to Expect

The Great Wall of China is a series of fortifications built along the northern borders of China to protect against invasions. Although the wall stretches over 13,000 miles, only a small portion of it is open for visitors. Be prepared for a lot of walking and climbing. Some parts of the wall are steep, and the steps can be uneven, so it is essential to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water.

2. Explore the Forbidden City

The Forbidden City is a massive royal palace complex located in the heart of Beijing. It was the home of the Chinese emperors for almost five centuries and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. This place is a must-visit if you want to learn more about Chinese history and culture.

How to Get There

The Forbidden City is located in the center of Beijing and is easily accessible by public transportation, taxi, or bike.

What to Expect

The Forbidden City is enormous, with 980 buildings built on 180 acres of land. You will need to allocate a few hours to explore the site fully. Guided tours are available and recommended to get a better understanding of the history and significance of the palace. Also, be sure to bring comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved.

3. Visit the Temple of Heaven

The Temple of Heaven is a beautiful religious building that dates back to the Ming Dynasty. It was built to worship the gods of heaven and was an essential part of traditional Chinese culture. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Beijing.

How to Get There

The Temple of Heaven is located in the southern part of Beijing and can easily be reached by public transportation or taxi.

What to Expect

The Temple of Heaven is a stunning site, with intricate carvings and colorful decorations. Visitors can walk the grounds and explore the three main areas of the temple, including the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvest, the Circular Mound Altar, and the Imperial Vault of Heaven.

4. Wander Through the Hutongs

The Hutongs are narrow streets and alleys that make up traditional Beijing neighborhoods. They are an excellent place to experience authentic Chinese culture and see how locals live their daily lives.

How to Get There

There are many areas throughout Beijing with Hutongs, but the most popular area is the Nanluoguxiang. This area is located in the city center and can easily be reached by public transportation or taxi.

What to Expect

Wandering through the Hutongs is an exciting experience. You can explore the narrow streets, see the traditional courtyard houses, and even try some of the street food. It’s also an excellent place to shop for souvenirs and gifts.

5. Enjoy Beijing’s Culinary Delights

No trip to Beijing is complete without tasting the local cuisine. Beijing is famous for its delicious Peking duck, dumplings, noodles, and many other dishes.

Where to Eat

There are many restaurants in Beijing that serve traditional Chinese food, but some of the most popular places to eat include Quanjude, Dadong, and Jingzun Peking Duck.

What to Expect

Expect to wait in line for some of the more popular restaurants, especially during peak tourist season. Once you are seated, be prepared for a delightful culinary experience that will satisfy your taste buds.

Book Your Tour Now

Beijing is a unique city in many ways, and there is so much to see and do. This guide provides a starting point for tourists who want to experience the best that Beijing has to offer. Whether you want to explore ancient architecture, immerse yourself in the local culture, or taste the delicious food, there is something for everyone in Beijing. Plan your trip wisely, and you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience!