How to Plan Your Half Day Private Customized Beijing City Tour with Flexible Departure Time

If you are planning to spend some time in Beijing and want to see some of the city’s highlights in just half a day, you may want to consider a guided private tour. One great option to explore Beijing at your own pace and according to your interests is the Half Day Private Customized Beijing City Tour with Flexible Departure Time. In this article, we will show you how to plan your trip with this tour and explore the beautiful city of Beijing.

Overview of the Half Day Private Customized Beijing City Tour with Flexible Departure Time

This private tour allows you to customize your itinerary and see Beijing’s top attractions, neighborhoods, and markets with the help of an experienced local guide. You can choose to visit the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace, or other popular sites, or explore less touristy areas like the hutong lanes, where locals live their traditional lifestyles. Whether you want to enjoy the museums, gardens, food, or tea markets, your guide will design an itinerary based on your interests and preferences. You can choose to depart in the morning or afternoon, and the transportation is private, air-conditioned, and comfortable.

How to Book the Half Day Private Customized Beijing City Tour with Flexible Departure Time

Booking this tour is easy and convenient. You can reserve your spot online through the tour’s website, Viator. The tour costs $72.5 per person, and the activity costs, such as entrance fees, food, drinks, etc., are at your own expense. Once you book the tour, you will receive a confirmation email with all the necessary details, such as the departure time, meeting point, and the name and contact information of your guide. Please make sure to read the terms and conditions and the cancellation policy before booking.

How to Plan Your Itinerary for the Half Day Private Customized Beijing City Tour with Flexible Departure Time

Before you depart for your tour, it’s a good idea to plan your itinerary, so you can make the most of your time in Beijing. Here are some popular sites and areas that you may want to include in your itinerary:

Forbidden City

The Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum, was the Chinese imperial palace from the Ming dynasty to the end of the Qing dynasty. With its magnificent architecture, grand halls and courtyards, and priceless relics and artworks, the Forbidden City is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Beijing. You will need a minimum of 2-3 hours to explore the palace complex, so make sure to allocate enough time in your itinerary.

Summer Palace

The Summer Palace is a stunning imperial garden that served as a summer resort for the emperors of the Qing dynasty. The palace complex features a beautiful lake, numerous pavilions, pagodas, and bridges, and lush gardens and greenery. The Summer Palace is a great place to relax, take a boat ride, and enjoy some scenic views of the city. You will need at least 2-3 hours to visit the palace, so keep that in mind when planning your itinerary.

Hutong Lanes

The hutong lanes are narrow alleys that form the old residential areas of Beijing. These lanes are lined with traditional courtyard houses, shops, and restaurants, and offer a glimpse into the daily lives and customs of the locals. You can take a rickshaw ride or a walking tour to explore the hutongs and try some local snacks and souvenirs. Depending on your interests, you can spend 1-2 hours or more in the hutongs.

Food and Flea Markets

For foodies and shoppers, Beijing has plenty of options to explore. You can visit the Donghuamen Night Market, where you can try some exotic street food and snacks, or the Panjiayuan Market, where you can bargain for antiques, handicrafts, and traditional Chinese medicine. You can also check out the Wangfujing Shopping Street or other bustling markets for some souvenirs and gifts.

Book Your Tour Now

The Half Day Private Customized Beijing City Tour with Flexible Departure Time is an excellent option for anyone who wants to personalize their tour and explore Beijing in a short time. With a private guide and comfortable transportation, you can optimize your itinerary and see the sites and areas that interest you the most. Book the tour here, plan your itinerary, and get ready to experience the rich culture and history of Beijing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Beijing

Beijing is the capital of the People’s Republic of China and a city with a rich cultural heritage. It is one of the most visited cities in the world and has a lot to offer to tourists. Here are some commonly asked questions about Beijing.

1. What is the best time to visit Beijing?

Beijing has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. The best time to visit Beijing is during the spring and fall seasons when the weather is milder. The months of April-June and September-November are the most ideal months to visit Beijing. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer crowds.

2. How long does it take to see the major attractions in Beijing?

To see the major attractions in Beijing, it usually takes around 3 to 4 days. Some of the most popular attractions in Beijing are The Great Wall of China, The Forbidden City, The Temple of Heaven, and The Summer Palace. These attractions are spread out across the city, so it is best to plan your itinerary ahead of time.

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

The best way to get around Beijing is by using the subway system. The subway system is efficient, cheap, and covers most of the major attractions in the city. You can also use taxis, but they can be more expensive, especially during rush hour. It’s best to avoid driving in Beijing because of the heavy traffic and limited parking.

4. What is the currency used in Beijing?

The currency used in Beijing is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). It is also referred to as Renminbi (RMB). You can exchange your currency at the airport, banks, or hotels. It is recommended to use ATMs to withdraw money because they offer a better exchange rate than currency exchange booths.

5. Do I need a visa to visit Beijing?

Yes, you need a visa to visit Beijing if you are traveling from most countries. You can apply for a tourist visa at your nearest Chinese embassy or consulate. It is recommended to apply for a visa at least two months before your planned trip.

6. What is the food like in Beijing?

Beijing has a diverse cuisine and is famous for its Peking Duck dish. Some other popular dishes are Beijing Noodles, Mongolian Hot Pot, and Dumplings. Vegetarian and Halal options are also available throughout the city.

7. What is the nightlife like in Beijing?

Beijing has a vibrant nightlife scene with bars, clubs, and live music venues. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include Sanlitun, Gulou, and Chaoyang District. It is important to note that some venues have a dress code, and some may require reservations.

8. Are there any customs or etiquette I should be aware of in Beijing?

Yes, there are a few customs and etiquettes that you should be aware of when visiting Beijing. It is polite to accept gifts with both hands, and it is customary to remove your shoes when entering a home or temple. Public displays of affection are frowned upon, and it is important to be respectful when visiting religious sites.

9. What is the air quality like in Beijing?

Beijing has had a problem with air pollution, but the city has been taking measures to improve the air quality. During the winter months, there may be an issue with smog, so it is recommended to bring a face mask if you have respiratory issues. It is always best to check the air quality index before planning your outdoor activities.

10. What are some off-the-beaten-path attractions in Beijing?

Some off-the-beaten-path attractions in Beijing include The Black Sesame Kitchen, a cooking school where you can learn how to cook traditional Chinese dishes, The Hutongs, narrow alleyways that are home to traditional Beijing courtyard homes, and The 798 Art District, a former industrial area that is now home to art galleries, cafes, and studios.

Book Your Tour Now

Beijing is a bustling city that is rich in history and culture. It has a lot to offer to tourists, and it is important to plan your trip ahead of time so that you can see all the major attractions. Be sure to follow the customs and etiquettes of the city, and enjoy all the delicious food and vibrant nightlife that Beijing has to offer.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Beijing

As one of the most popular tourist destinations in China, Beijing has something to offer for everyone. From its rich cultural heritage to its modern infrastructure, there are countless things to see and do in this vibrant city. In this post, we’ll explore some of the best ways to spend your time as a tourist in Beijing.

1. Explore the Great Wall of China

A trip to Beijing would not be complete without a visit to the Great Wall of China. As one of the Seven Wonders of the World, it is a must-see attraction for all tourists. There are several sections of the wall that are open to visitors, with each offering a unique experience. Some of the most popular sections include Badaling, Mutianyu, and Jiankou.

Badaling

Badaling is the most popular section of the Great Wall and is known for its well-preserved condition. It is also one of the best sections for accessibility, with a cable car available to take visitors up to the wall. However, due to its popularity, it can be crowded, especially during peak tourist season.

Mutianyu

Mutianyu is another popular section of the Great Wall that is less crowded than Badaling. It is known for its stunning scenery and is a great option for those looking for a more scenic and peaceful experience.

Jiankou

Jiankou is the most rugged and untouched section of the Great Wall. This section is not as developed as the others and requires a bit more hiking, but the views are truly breathtaking.

2. Visit the Forbidden City

The Forbidden City is one of the most iconic landmarks in Beijing and is a must-visit for all tourists. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and was the imperial palace during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Its magnificent architecture and rich cultural heritage make it a great place to explore for a day.

What to see in the Forbidden City

There are many things to see and do in the Forbidden City. Some of the highlights include:

• The Hall of Supreme Harmony
• The Palace of Heavenly Purity
• The Imperial Garden
• The Nine Dragon Screen

3. Sample the Local Cuisine

Beijing is known for its delicious cuisine, and no trip to the city would be complete without sampling some of the local dishes. From the famous Peking Duck to the savory Jiaozi (dumplings), there is something for everyone to try.

Where to eat in Beijing

Some of the best places to eat in Beijing include:

• Da Dong Roast Duck Restaurant
• Quanjude
• Donghuamen Night Market
• Haidilao Hot Pot

4. Visit the Summer Palace

The Summer Palace is another landmark in Beijing that is a must-visit for all tourists. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and was once the summer retreat for the imperial family.

What to see in the Summer Palace

There are many things to see and do in the Summer Palace. Some of the highlights include:

• The Long Corridor
• The Marble Boat
• The Seventeen-Arch Bridge
• The Tower of Buddhist Incense

5. Explore the Hutongs

The Hutongs are traditional alleyways and courtyards that offer a glimpse into Beijing’s rich cultural heritage. They are home to many traditional houses, shops, and teahouses, making it a great place to explore for a day.

What to see in the Hutongs

There are many things to see and do in the Hutongs. Some of the highlights include:

• Prince Gong’s Mansion
• Beijing Bell and Drum Towers
• Nanluogu Alley
• Houhai Lake

Book Your Tour Now

Beijing is a city that truly has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or cuisine, there are countless things to see and do in this vibrant city. By following the tips outlined in this post, you can make the most of your time as a tourist in Beijing and create memories that will last a lifetime.