How to Plan Your 8-Day Private Tour to Beijing, Lhasa and Xi’an

Are you planning a trip to China? Do you want to experience the rich culture and history of Beijing, Lhasa, and Xi’an? Look no further than the 8-Day Private Tour offered by Viator!

This tour includes private transportation, private guides, entrance tickets, hotel accommodations, and dinner each day. Keep reading for a step-by-step guide on how to plan your perfect trip.

Step 1: Book the Tour

The first step in planning your tour is to book it on the Viator website. The tour includes pick-up from any hotel in Beijing central and two economy class flight tickets between Beijing and Xi’an. You can add additional days if you wish. You can cancel the tour up to 4 days in advance for a full refund. Book your tour here.

Step 2: Prepare for Arrival

Since the tour begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Beijing central, ensure you have your reservation confirmed and your bags packed. The tour includes infant seats and is stroller and wheelchair accessible. Confirmation of your booking will be sent to you via email.

Step 3: Enjoy the Tour

On the first day of the tour, you will visit Beijing’s most popular sites, including the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, and the Summer Palace. Day 2 takes you to Lhasa, where you will tour the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and the Barkhor Street. Finally, day 3 and 4 takes you to Xi’an, where you will visit the Terracotta Warriors and the ancient city walls.

Step 4: Additional Information

Confirmation of your booking will be sent to you via email. The tour is not recommended for travelers with back problems. You can also add additional days to the tour if you wish to see more of China. The cut-off time for cancellations or changes is 4 days in advance of the experience’s start time.

What’s Included in the Tour

• Private car and private guide
• Two flight tickets between Beijing and Xi’an (economy class)
• Entrance tickets to all listed attractions
• Hotel accommodations and dinner each day

Meeting and Pickup

Adhere to the specified start time (08:00 AM) for the tour. We can pick up from any hotel in Beijing central. All pickup points should be selected when making your booking.

What to Expect

Expect an unforgettable experience as you visit some of China’s most iconic sites. Learn about the rich culture and history of each city you visit through the insights of accredited private guides. Finally, you can expect comfortable accommodations and transportation throughout the tour.

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel the tour up to 4 days in advance of the experience’s start time for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 4 full days before the experience’s start time. Cancellation less than 3 full days before the experience’s start time will not result in any refund. Please be aware of the experience’s local time as cut-off times are based on that.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a comprehensive and comfortable way to visit Beijing, Lhasa, and Xi’an, Viator’s 8-Day Private Tour is an excellent choice. By following these four simple steps, you’ll be well prepared and able to enjoy your trip to the fullest. Book your tour today and get ready for an unforgettable experience!

An Insider’s Guide to Beijing

As the capital of China, Beijing has plenty of awe-inspiring tourist attractions to visit, such as the Great Wall and the Forbidden City. However, if you’re looking for a unique and authentic experience, you need to explore some hidden gems that only locals know about. Here are some of the best-kept secrets in Beijing:

1. Explore the Dashanzi Art District

The Dashanzi Art District is a thriving artistic community that features galleries, studios, and performance spaces. It is an excellent place to experience modern art and creative energy. This district offers a great contrast to the historic sites of Beijing and showcases the city’s diversity in art.

2. Visit the Temple of Sun

The Temple of Sun is not as well-known as the Temple of Heaven, but it offers a tranquil experience with fewer crowds. It is an exquisite temple with intricate carvings and a beautiful garden. Many locals come here to practice Tai Chi in the morning, and it is a great place to take a peaceful walk.

3. Wander through the Hutongs

The Hutongs are narrow alleyways that connect Beijing’s traditional courtyard houses. They are a symbol of old Beijing and offer a glimpse into the city’s rich history. Exploring the Hutongs is best done on foot or by bicycle. Make sure to stop at local tea houses and shops to get a feel for the community.

Dining Spots in Beijing

Beijing’s food culture is diverse and unique; it offers various choices from savory Peking duck to street-food snacks. Here are some dining spots that are popular among locals and tourists alike:

1. Lost Heaven

Lost Heaven is an exquisite restaurant that offers modern, upscale Southeast Asian cuisine, along with beautiful decor and an excellent wine list. It is an excellent choice for a special occasion, and its unique ambiance will create a memorable dining experience.

2. Tianjin Dumpling House

Tianjin Dumpling House is a small, family-owned restaurant that serves delicious dumplings. Along with their dumplings, they serve other northern Chinese dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. The atmosphere is casual and friendly, and you can watch the master cooks at work in the open kitchen.

3. Donghuamen Night Market

Donghuamen Night Market offers an authentic street-food experience that will leave you wanting more. With a vast selection of exotic snacks, including scorpions and fried starfish, this market is not for the faint-hearted. Try some of Beijing’s traditional snacks and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Cultural Experiences in Beijing

Beijing’s rich cultural heritage is reflected in its art, music, and festivals. Here are some cultural experiences that should not be missed during your visit to Beijing:

1. The Beijing Opera

The Beijing Opera is a traditional Chinese art form that is a must-see while in Beijing. It combines music, dance, acrobatics, and martial arts into a mesmerizing performance. The best place to see the Beijing Opera is at the Liyuan Theatre in Qianmen.

2. The Mid-Autumn Festival

The Mid-Autumn Festival is a traditional Chinese festival celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month. It is a time for family reunions and enjoying the full moon. In Beijing, there are various activities to celebrate this festival, including lantern-making, dragon and lion dances, and eating mooncakes.

3. The 798 Art Zone

The 798 Art Zone is an area full of international contemporary art galleries, studios, and shops, located in an old industrial complex. It is a great place to immerse yourself in the creative energy of Beijing’s modern art scene. Be sure to check out the various exhibitions and events happening throughout the year.

Local History of Beijing

Beijing has a rich history that spans more than 3000 years, and there are many captivating stories to be told about the city’s past. Here are a few stories that will bring Beijing’s history to life:

1. The Legend of the White Snake

The Legend of the White Snake is a centuries-old tale that originated in Beijing. It tells the story of a white snake spirit who falls in love with a mortal man. This tale has been the source of numerous operas, plays, and movies in China.

2. The Summer Palace

The Summer Palace is not just a beautiful place to visit, but it also has a fascinating history. It was first built in the 12th century as a royal garden and was later reconstructed in the Qing dynasty as a luxurious palace for the emperors. This palace played a significant role in China’s history during the 19th and 20th centuries.

3. The Old Summer Palace

The Old Summer Palace was once a grand complex of palaces and gardens used by the Qing Dynasty emperors. It was destroyed by British and French troops in 1860, and today, it remains a poignant reminder of China’s painful past and serves as a symbol of national pride.

Off-The-Beaten Path Suggestions

Beijing is full of unique and exciting experiences that go beyond the conventional tourist attractions. Here are some tips that will help you create unforgettable memories:

1. Take a Tai Chi Lesson

Tai Chi is a traditional Chinese martial art that combines mindfulness, movement, and breathing. Taking a Tai Chi lesson in Beijing will not only help you relax and reduce stress, but it will also introduce you to an essential part of Chinese culture.

2. Take a Nighttime Bike Ride

Beijing’s streets come alive at night, and taking a nighttime bike ride through the city’s lit-up streets is an unforgettable experience. You can ride through the city’s Hutongs, visit the Olympic Park, and witness the glittering skyline along the way.

3. Attend a Chinese Tea Ceremony

Chinese tea ceremonies are an essential part of Chinese culture and are an ideal way to learn about the history and significance of tea. You can attend a tea ceremony in one of Beijing’s many tea houses or book a private lesson to learn about the art of making tea.

In conclusion, Beijing has something to offer everyone; Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or food. By exploring these hidden gems and unique experiences, you’ll have a more meaningful and authentic trip to this fascinating city.