How To Plan Your Beijing Forbidden City and Summer Palace Tour

Beijing is an exciting city full of rich history, culture, and architecture. If you’re planning a trip to Beijing, the Forbidden City and Summer Palace are two of the most popular tourist destinations. This private tour offered by Viator offers a great opportunity to see both sites in one day, with optional Peking duck lunch. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your Beijing Forbidden City and Summer Palace private tour.

Overview

This private tour offers you a hassle-free way to visit three of Beijing’s top attractions in a day. You will be picked up from your hotel and taken to Tiananmen Square, which is the largest public square in the world, and the centerpiece of the city. Here, you will be able to see the national flag raising ceremony and visit the Monument to the People’s Heroes. After visiting Tiananmen Square, you will be taken to the Forbidden City, which is a palace complex in central Beijing that served as the imperial palace from the Ming dynasty to the end of the Qing dynasty. The palace complex is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in China. Finally, you will be taken to the Summer Palace, which is a vast ensemble of lakes, gardens, and palaces in Beijing. It was an imperial garden during the Qing dynasty and is now a public park.

What’s included

The private tour includes a professional English/Spanish/French speaking guide, a clean and air-conditioned car, Hutong family lunch with dumpling making, and gratuities (recommended). You will also receive admission tickets to Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Summer Palace.

Benefits of a Private Tour

By opting for this private tour, you can avoid public transport and save time by seeing both the Forbidden City and Summer Palace in one day. You’ll also have the benefit of a knowledgeable guide who can provide fascinating historical insights along the way that you wouldn’t discover if exploring alone.

Additional Information

It’s important to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather as there will be a lot of walking and some climbing involved during the tour. The tour will involve some steps, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Beijing Forbidden City and Summer Palace private tour is a convenient and informative way to see two of Beijing’s most popular tourist destinations in one day. Booking this tour is easy, just click here to book it.

FAQ about Beijing

Beijing, the capital of China, is one of the most populous cities in the world. It is a vibrant mix of modernity and traditional Chinese culture. Here are some frequently asked questions about Beijing:

1. What is the best time to visit Beijing?

The best time to visit Beijing is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). The weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds. Summer (July to August) can be hot and humid, and winter (December to March) can be bitterly cold, with occasional snowfall.

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

Beijing is home to some fascinating historical sites and landmarks. Some must-visit attractions include:

• The Great Wall of China
• The Forbidden City
• The Temple of Heaven
• The Summer Palace
• The Ming Tombs

3. How to get around in Beijing?

Beijing has a well-developed public transport system, including buses, subways, and taxis. The subway is the most convenient mode of transport for tourists, as it covers most of the major tourist attractions. Taxis are also affordable and easily available, but traffic can be a problem during peak hours.

4. What is the currency used in Beijing?

The currency used in Beijing, as well as in the rest of China, is the Chinese Yuan (CNY).

5. What are some popular dishes to try in Beijing?

Beijing is famous for its cuisine, which is a combination of imperial, Mongolian, and Muslim influences. Some popular dishes to try include:

• Peking Duck
• Mongolian hotpot
• Stir-fried noodles
• Steamed dumplings
• Braised pork in soy sauce

6. What is the local language spoken in Beijing?

The official language spoken in Beijing is Mandarin Chinese. However, most people in the tourism industry can speak basic English, so communication should not be a problem for tourists.

7. What are some of the best places to shop in Beijing?

Beijing is a shopper’s paradise, with everything from international luxury brands to traditional Chinese handicrafts. Some of the best places to shop in Beijing include:

• The Silk Market
• The Pearl Market
• The Wangfujing shopping street
• The Qianmen shopping area

8. What are some tips for visiting Beijing?

Here are a few tips for a hassle-free visit to Beijing:

• Carry cash as most small shops and restaurants do not accept credit cards.
• Carry a map or download a navigation app as it can be challenging to navigate the city without a guide.
• Take care of your belongings as pickpocketing is common in crowded areas.
• Carry a face mask as the air quality in Beijing can be poor.
• Be respectful of local customs and traditions.

9. What are some offbeat attractions to visit in Beijing?

Beijing is home to several offbeat attractions that are worth a visit, including:

• The 798 Art District, which is a hub for contemporary art and culture.
• The Hutongs, which are narrow alleyways that give a glimpse into the traditional way of life in Beijing.
• The Peking Opera, which is a traditional form of Chinese theatre that dates back to the 18th century.
• The National Centre for the Performing Arts, which is a stunning architectural masterpiece and a world-class venue for performing arts.

10. What is the nightlife like in Beijing?

Beijing has a vibrant nightlife scene, with everything from bustling night markets to high-end clubs. Some popular nightlife spots in Beijing include:

• The Sanlitun area, which is known for its bars and clubs.
• The Houhai area, which is a picturesque area dotted with bars and restaurants along a lakeside promenade.
• The Nanluoguxiang area, which has a lively atmosphere with street performers, bars, and live music venues.

Beijing is a city that offers something for everyone – from history and culture to shopping and nightlife. Plan your visit to this vibrant metropolis and experience the best that China has to offer.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Beijing

Beijing, the capital city of China, is a hub of culture, history, and modernization. It boasts of numerous attractions that have been in existence for centuries, including historical landmarks, modern skyscrapers, and world-famous cuisine. If you’re planning to travel to Beijing for the first time, there is an abundance of experiences that await you, and you don’t want to miss out on any. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you spend your time as a tourist in Beijing.

Step 1: Visit the Forbidden City

The Forbidden City is arguably one of the most iconic landmarks in Beijing. It is a palace complex that served as China’s imperial palace for almost five centuries, and it is one of the most visited attractions in Beijing. The palace complex is enormous, consisting of more than 980 buildings, and you would need a minimum of two to three hours to explore the halls, the courtyards, and the gardens.

Tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes as you will walk a lot
• Visit early to avoid the crowds
• Bring a map or a guidebook to help navigate the complex

Step 2: Climb the Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is undoubtedly one of the world’s most iconic landmarks. Although it is situated a few miles away from downtown Beijing, it is worth taking the trip. This incredible masterpiece is a testament to Chinese engineering and is a must-see for any visitor to Beijing. You can choose to climb one of the accessible sections of the wall or take a walk along the top to enjoy the stunning views of the Chinese countryside.

Tips:

• Wear comfortable hiking shoes and clothes
• Carry drinking water and snacks
• Be cautious when climbing up and down the steep stairs

Step 3: Visit the Temple of Heaven

The Temple of Heaven is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of China’s most revered religious temples. It is located in the southern part of Beijing and served as the site of the annual imperial ceremonies during the Ming and Qing dynasties. The temple is famous for its beautiful architecture, intricate carvings, and peaceful surroundings.

Tips:

• Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds
• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes
• Take a guided tour to learn more about the temple’s history and significance

Step 4: Sample some Chinese cuisine

Chinese cuisine is world-renowned, and Beijing is known for some of its delicious dishes. The city boasts of countless mouth-watering eateries that serve authentic Chinese cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include Peking duck, dumplings, hotpot, and jianbing.

Tips:

• Try different dishes at different restaurants to get a feel for the cuisine
• Be adventurous and sample some of the local street food
• Visit the local wet markets to get an up-close look at how the locals buy and sell their produce

Step 5: Explore the Hutongs

The Hutongs are Beijing’s traditional alleys and courtyards that have been in existence for centuries. They offer a glimpse into the city’s ancient history and culture and are a delight to explore. The Hutongs are located in the city’s central core and feature traditional Chinese architecture, narrow alleyways, traditional shops, and local eateries.

Tips:

• Exploring the Hutongs on a bicycle tour is an excellent way to see them
• Wear comfortable walking shoes
• Talk to the locals to learn more about their culture and history

Step 6: Visit the Summer Palace

The Summer Palace is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and is located in the northwest part of the city. It was once the summer residence of the emperors during the Qing Dynasty and is now a popular tourist destination. The palace features beautiful gardens, pavilions, and a lake that you can take a boat ride on.

Tips:

• Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds
• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes
• Take a guided tour to learn more about the palace’s history and significance

Step 7: Watch a Chinese Opera Show

Watching a Chinese Opera Show is a great way to experience traditional Chinese culture. The opera combines music, dance, acrobatics, and drama to tell tales of ancient Chinese history and mythology. There are a few theaters in Beijing that offer nightly performances, and the shows typically last for about two hours.

Tips:

• Book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment
• Prepare yourself for the opera by reading up on the history of Chinese opera
• Be open-minded and embrace the differences in culture and art

The bottom line

Beijing is an incredible city with an abundance of activities and experiences for any traveler. From exploring the city’s ancient history to indulging in its world-famous cuisine and witnessing its modernization, there is never a dull moment in Beijing. Use our step-by-step guide to plan your trip and make the most of your time in Beijing.