How to Plan Your Private Tour to Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace in Beijing

If you are visiting Beijing, the Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace are must-see destinations that should be on your list. These two UNESCO World Heritage Sites are some of the most impressive architectural treasures of ancient China. Planning your visit to these destinations requires careful attention to detail in order to make the most of your time. If you want to avoid the stress of public transportation and explore the sites independently, we suggest booking a private tour with an English-speaking chauffeur. Here is how you can plan your private tour to Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace in Beijing.

Choose a Convenient Tour Time and Duration

The tour runs from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. You can choose to spend 8, 9, or 10 hours touring the sites depending on your schedule. The tour is flexible, allowing you to customize your itinerary according to your preferences.

Book Your Tour Online

Booking your tour online is easy and convenient. Simply visit the tour page on Viator and choose the best option for you. You will be prompted to provide information about the number of participants and pickup location.

Get Picked Up from Your Hotel or Meet Up with the Driver

Your English-speaking driver will pick you up at your hotel or another location of your choice in Beijing. Pickups start from 7:00 AM, so make sure you are ready on time. You can expect a door-to-door service that will take you comfortably to the two sites, and a guide will be there to provide further assistance.

Experience the Great Wall at Mutianyu

Once you arrive, you will start with an approximately two-hour hike along the Mutianyu Great Wall. This will give you an opportunity to experience the spectacular skyline and take photos of the picturesque landscape. You will also have the option of taking a cable car or chairlift, which is included in the tour fee.

Enjoy a Chinese Lunch at a Local Restaurant

After exploring the Great Wall, you will take a short break to enjoy a Chinese lunch at a local restaurant. Your guide will recommend the best dishes for you to try, and you can enjoy a meal filled with flavors that are uniquely Chinese.

Discover the Summer Palace

After lunch, your driver will take you to the Summer Palace where you can stroll through the beautiful gardens and pavilions. Your chauffeur will be there to provide any support you may need, such as helping you purchase admission tickets.

Conclude Your Tour

After exploring the Summer Palace, your English-speaking driver will transport you back to your hotel or another location of your choice. The tour concludes approximately at 5:00 PM.

What’s Included?

This self-guided tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water, English speaking driver, cable car or chairlift fees, a pre-arranged tour guide, and lunch at a local restaurant.

Additional Information

– This is a private tour, so you have the flexibility to customize your itinerary according to your preferences. – It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen. – If you need to cancel or reschedule, please inform the tour operator at least 24 hours in advance. – Your tour guide will provide basic information about the sites, but you are encouraged to do additional research and explore the sites independently.

Book Your Tour Here

If you want to explore the Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace in Beijing at your own pace without worrying about transportation, book your private tour online. This is a great opportunity to experience the cultural richness and historical significance of these unforgettable sites. Book Your Tour Here Don’t miss the chance to create memories that will last a lifetime!

FAQ About Beijing

Beijing is the capital of China and one of the most populous cities in the world. With a population of over 21 million people, there is much to explore and experience in this city. If you’re planning a trip to Beijing, here are some frequently asked questions that may help you plan your itinerary.

1. What are the top tourist attractions in Beijing?

Some of the top tourist attractions in Beijing include:

• The Great Wall of China: One of the seven wonder of the world, it an iconic attraction that draws millions of tourists every year.
• The Forbidden City: A palace complex that served as the home of Chinese emperors for almost 500 years. The palace has an impressive collection of artefacts from China’s history.
• Tiananmen Square: This square is one of the largest in the world and is surrounded by many government buildings. It is also the site of the 1989 pro-democracy protests, which ended in violence and deaths.
• Beijing National Stadium (Bird’s Nest): This stadium was built for the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing and is now a popular tourist attraction.
• The Temple of Heaven: This temple is an example of Chinese religious architecture and is surrounded by beautiful gardens.
• The Summer Palace: This palace was a retreat for emperors during the hot summer months and is now a public park.

2. When is the best time to visit Beijing?

The best time to visit Beijing is during spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October). During these seasons, the weather is mild and pleasant, and the crowds are not as large as during the summer months. The summer months (June-August) can be unbearably hot, while the winter months (November-March) can be bitterly cold and windy.

3. What should I pack for my Beijing trip?

You should pack light and comfortable clothing, including long-sleeved shirts and pants, walking shoes, and a light jacket. If you’re visiting in the summer, you may want to pack a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. If you’re visiting in the winter, you should pack warm clothing, including gloves, hats, and scarves.

4. What is the local currency in Beijing?

The local currency in Beijing is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). You can exchange your currency at banks, hotels, and airports. ATMs are widespread, but some may not accept foreign cards, so it’s best to check with your bank before you leave.

5. What is the local language in Beijing?

The official language in Beijing is Mandarin Chinese. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas and hotels.

6. Is it safe to drink tap water in Beijing?

No, it is not safe to drink tap water in Beijing. You should only drink bottled water or boiled water. Many restaurants and hotels provide boiled water for free.

7. What is the public transportation system like in Beijing?

Beijing has an extensive public transportation system, including subways, buses, and taxis. The subway is the most efficient way to get around the city, as it is fast and cheap. The buses are also affordable, but they can be crowded and confusing to navigate.

8. What are some local foods that I should try in Beijing?

Some local foods that you should try in Beijing include:

• Peking duck: Roasted duck served with thin pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce.
• Jiaozi (dumplings): Steamed or fried dumplings with various fillings, such as pork and chives or shrimp and vegetables.
• Zhajiangmian: Noodles served with a thick, savoury sauce made with fermented soybeans.
• Lamb skewers: Grilled skewers of seasoned lamb.
• Hot pot: A communal pot of boiling broth served with meats, vegetables, and noodles.

9. Do I need a visa to visit Beijing?

Yes, you need a visa to visit Beijing if you’re a foreign national. You can apply for a tourist visa at your local Chinese embassy or consulate.

10. Are there any customs or traditions that I should be aware of when visiting Beijing?

Yes, there are a few customs and traditions that you should be aware of when visiting Beijing:

• Bowing: When greeting someone, it’s customary to bow slightly. The bow should be deeper for older people and those of higher status.
• Gift-giving: It’s common to give small gifts when visiting someone’s home or meeting someone for the first time. Gifts should be wrapped in red paper, as red is considered a lucky colour in China.
• Chopsticks: When eating with chopsticks, it’s considered impolite to pierce your food or play with your chopsticks.

Book Your Tour Now

Beijing is a fascinating city with a rich history and culture. With so many attractions and foods to try, it’s no wonder why millions of tourists visit each year. By planning ahead and learning about the local customs and traditions, you can ensure that your trip to Beijing is enjoyable and unforgettable.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Beijing

Beijing is a fascinating city well worth a visit. With its rich history, stunning architecture, friendly locals, and beautiful parks, there is something for everyone to enjoy here. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Beijing has plenty to offer. Here are some tips on how to spend your time as a tourist in Beijing.

1. Visit the Forbidden City

The Forbidden City is one of the most iconic landmarks in Beijing. It was the home of the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties and is now a museum of Chinese history and culture. With its unique architecture and beautiful gardens, the Forbidden City is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Beijing.

2. Walk Along the Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is one of the Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It stretches over 13,000 miles across China, and there are several different locations to visit from Beijing. Some of the most popular sections to walk along are Badaling, Juyongguan, and Mutianyu. The Great Wall is a symbol of Chinese ingenuity and has been an important defense system in Chinese history.

3. Explore the Temple of Heaven

The Temple of Heaven is an ancient temple that was built in 1420 during the Ming dynasty. It is a complex of buildings set in beautiful gardens, with the main hall being the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests. The temple is a masterpiece of Chinese architecture and a popular attraction for tourists.

4. Visit the Summer Palace

The Summer Palace is a stunning palace and park complex that was the summer retreat for the emperors of the Qing dynasty. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is considered one of the most beautiful and serene spots in Beijing. With its lakes, gardens, and palaces, the Summer Palace is a perfect place to relax and escape the city.

5. Wander Around Tiananmen Square

Tiananmen Square is the largest public square in the world and is where many important events in Chinese history have taken place. It is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Beijing and is home to many important landmarks, such as the Monument to the People’s Heroes, the Great Hall of the People, and the National Museum of China.

6. Taste Authentic Beijing Cuisine

Beijing cuisine is a unique blend of flavors from all over China, and there are many great restaurants throughout the city where you can enjoy local specialties. Some of the most famous dishes to try include Peking duck, zhajiangmian (noodles with soybean paste), jianbing (Chinese crepes), and roujiamo (Chinese sandwich). Make sure to also try some of the local street food for a more authentic experience.

7. Shop in the Local Markets

Beijing is famous for its local markets, where you can find everything from souvenirs to traditional Chinese goods. Some of the most popular markets include the Silk Market, the Pearl Market, and the Panjiayuan Antique Market. In these markets, you can haggle with the vendors for the best prices and come away with some unique treasures.

8. Visit the Beijing National Stadium

The Beijing National Stadium, also known as the Bird’s Nest, is an iconic landmark of modern Beijing. It was built for the 2008 Summer Olympics and is now a popular attraction for tourists. You can take a tour of the stadium and go up to the top for amazing views of the city.

9. Relax in the Beihai Park

Beihai Park is a beautiful park in the heart of Beijing and is one of the oldest and most well-preserved imperial gardens in China. It features stunning temples, pavilions, and lakes, and is a great place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

10. Learn Chinese Culture at the Beijing Opera

The Beijing Opera is a traditional form of Chinese theater that has been popular for over 200 years. It features singing, dancing, and elaborate costumes, and is an essential part of Chinese culture. There are many places in Beijing where you can see a performance and learn more about this fascinating art form.

Book Your Tour Now

Beijing has something for everyone, from ancient history to modern culture. With so many attractions to see, it can be tough to choose where to spend your time, but with this guide, you’ll have a better idea of what to expect. Make sure to take the time to explore the city’s unique cuisine, markets, and parks, and to learn more about its rich cultural heritage. With these tips, your visit to Beijing is sure to be an unforgettable experience.