How to Plan Your Beijing Mini Group Day Tour: Great Wall, Forbidden City and Tiananmen

Are you planning a trip to Beijing and want to see the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, and Tiananmen Square in one day? Look no further than the Beijing Mini Group Day Tour. This tour offers a pure sightseeing-only experience with a knowledgeable guide who will provide in-depth commentary and show you the best photo ops. Here’s how to plan your perfect Beijing Mini Group Day Tour:

Booking

To start, book your tour in advance through the Viator platform, which offers a hassle-free booking experience. The tour is offered by a third-party company and includes an air-conditioned minivan with a chauffeur, a professional English-speaking tour guide, pick-up and drop-off anywhere within the 3rd ring road of Beijing, and the cable car fee at the Great Wall. Meals and gratuities are not included.

Tour Overview

The tour starts with an early morning pick up and a comfortable drive to Tiananmen Square. You’ll avoid the long lines and crowds as your guide leads you to the best vantage points for photos and provides a thorough history of the area.

Next, you’ll make your way to the Forbidden City, the largest palace in the world. With your guide, you’ll skip the line and head straight to the most iconic spots and lesser-known corners, learning about the emperors, concubines, and eunuchs who once walked these halls.

After a morning of historical immersion, it’s time to head out of the city and into the countryside to see the Great Wall of China. The Mutianyu section of the wall is the most well-preserved and picturesque, with fewer tourists than other sections. You’ll take a cable car up to the wall and then hike along the battlements, taking in spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and the snaking wall stretching out in either direction.

The final stop on the tour is Nanluoguxiang Hutong, a traditional alleyway in the heart of the city that’s been converted into a trendy pedestrian street lined with shops, bars, and restaurants. You’ll have some free time to explore on your own before heading back to your hotel.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes an air-conditioned minivan with a chauffeur, a professional English-speaking tour guide, pick-up and drop-off anywhere within the 3rd ring road of Beijing, and the cable car fee at the Great Wall.

The tour does not include meals or gratuities.

What to Bring

For your day out, you’ll want to wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing appropriate for the weather. It can get hot and sunny in the summer, or chilly and windy in the winter, so check the forecast and dress accordingly. Bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle. You’ll be doing a lot of walking and hiking, so it’s important to stay hydrated.

Tour Recommendations

To make the most of your Beijing Mini Group Day Tour, here are some recommendations:

– Arrive at your pick-up location on time, as the tour has a set schedule to keep.
– Listen to your guide’s commentary and ask questions. They are knowledgeable about the area and happy to share their insights.
– Try some local cuisine while you’re out and about. Your guide can recommend some delicious options.
– Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery and architecture.

Conclusion

The Beijing Mini Group Day Tour is the perfect way to see the best of Beijing without getting bogged down by the crowds, lines, and tourist traps. With a knowledgeable guide, comfortable transportation, and stunning scenery, it’s a day you won’t forget. Book the tour here and start planning your perfect day out in Beijing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Beijing

Beijing, the capital city of China, is known for many things, including its rich history, culture, and amazing landmarks. The city is one of the largest and most populous in the world, with a population of over 21 million. If you’re planning a visit to Beijing, you probably have lots of questions about what to expect. In this article, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Beijing.

1. What is the best time to visit Beijing?

The best time to visit Beijing is in the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. During these seasons, the skies are clear, and the temperature is just right for outdoor activities. The summer months, from June to August, can be hot and humid, making it uncomfortable to explore the city. Winter in Beijing (December to February) is usually cold and dry, with occasional snowfall. However, this is also the best time to visit if you want to experience the winter sports activities in Beijing.

2. What are the must-see attractions in Beijing?

Beijing is home to many iconic landmarks and attractions, including:

The Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is one of the most well-known landmarks in the world. The wall stretches for over 13,000 miles and is divided into several sections. The most popular section to visit is the Badaling section, which is easily accessible from Beijing.

The Forbidden City

The Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum, is a vast complex of palace buildings that was once the imperial palace during the Ming and Qing dynasties. The complex has over 9,000 rooms and is home to many artifacts and treasures.

Tiananmen Square

Tiananmen Square is one of the largest public squares in the world and is at the heart of Beijing. The square is surrounded by several important landmarks, including the Tiananmen Gate, the National Museum of China, and the Great Hall of the People.

The Summer Palace

The Summer Palace is a vast collection of lakes, gardens, and palaces that was once the summer retreat for the imperial family. The complex covers over 700 acres and includes several iconic landmarks, such as the Long Corridor and the Marble Boat.

3. What is the currency used in Beijing?

The currency used in Beijing is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). Most hotels and larger restaurants accept credit cards, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash with you. There are many ATMs throughout the city where you can withdraw cash.

4. What is the official language of Beijing?

The official language of Beijing is Mandarin Chinese. However, many people in the service industry speak some English, and signs in major tourist areas are usually bilingual. It’s a good idea to learn a few basic Chinese phrases before your trip, especially if you plan to visit places off the beaten track.

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

Beijing has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, subways, and taxis. The subway system is modern, efficient, and cost-effective, and it’s a great way to get around the city quickly. Taxis are also plentiful and affordable, but they can be hard to hail during rush hours. It’s also worth noting that Beijing has many bike-sharing services, and cycling is a popular way to get around.

6. Is Beijing safe for tourists?

Beijing is generally considered a safe city for tourists. However, like any major city, there are some areas that are best avoided, especially at night. Pickpocketing and other petty crimes can also occur, so it’s important to take the usual precautions such as not carrying large amounts of cash and keeping an eye on your belongings.

7. What is the local food like in Beijing?

Beijing has a rich culinary tradition that includes many iconic dishes such as Peking duck, dumplings, and hotpot. There are also many street food vendors that sell a variety of snacks and local specialties. Like any Chinese city, Beijing also has many international restaurants that cater to different tastes and preferences.

8. What should I know about Chinese etiquette?

Chinese etiquette can be quite different from what you’re used to, and it’s important to be aware of the local customs and traditions. Some tips to keep in mind include:

– Always greet people with a friendly nod or handshake
– Wait to be offered a seat before sitting down at a table or in a meeting
– It’s polite to offer compliments and praise to your hosts or hosts’ for their hospitality
– Tipping is not common in China.

Conclusion

Beijing is a city full of history, culture, and amazing sights. By following these tips and taking the time to plan your trip, you’ll be able to make the most of your visit to this vibrant city. Whether you’re interested in history, food, or shopping, there is something for everyone in Beijing. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!