How to Plan Your Beijing Forbidden City and Summer Palace Private Tour With Optional Peking Duck Lunch
Exploring Beijing’s Forbidden City and Summer Palace is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The former was home to the Chinese imperial family for nearly five centuries and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while the latter is a scenic imperial garden known for its stunning lakes and pavilions. Together, these attractions offer visitors a fascinating glimpse into China’s rich history and culture. If you’re planning a trip to Beijing and would like to visit these iconic landmarks in comfort and style, a private tour is an excellent choice. This guide will take you through everything you need to know to plan your Beijing Forbidden City and Summer Palace Private Tour with Optional Peking Duck Lunch.Overview of the Tour
The Beijing Forbidden City and Summer Palace Private Tour is a full-day excursion that allows you to explore three of the city’s top attractions — Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Summer Palace — with the help of an expert guide. This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle as well as entrance tickets to all three attractions.Key Benefits of the Tour
There are several benefits to opting for a private tour:- Door-to-door transfers are included, so you don’t have to worry about navigating public transportation or hailing cabs.
- You save time by seeing the Forbidden City and Summer Palace in a day.
- Your guide will provide historical and cultural insights that you might miss if exploring on your own.
- You can customize the itinerary to suit your interests or add on optional extras, such as a Peking Duck lunch.
What’s included in the Tour?
The following are included in the Beijing Forbidden City and Summer Palace Private Tour:- A professional English/Spanish/French-speaking guide who will accompany you throughout the tour and provide valuable insights.
- A clean and air-conditioned car for door-to-door transfers to all attractions.
- Entrance tickets to Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Summer Palace.
- A delicious Hutong family lunch with dumpling making.
- Gratuities (recommended but optional)
Itinerary of the Tour
Here is a breakdown of the tour’s itinerary:Tiananmen Square (40 minutes)
The tour starts with a visit to Tiananmen Square, one of the world’s largest public squares. This iconic landmark has played a central role in Chinese history and is home to several notable monuments, including the Monument to the People’s Heroes, the Great Hall of the People, and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong.The Forbidden City (3 hours)
Next, the tour takes you to the Forbidden City, which was the imperial palace of China’s Ming and Qing dynasties. This sprawling complex contains over 9000 rooms and is renowned for its beautiful architecture, intricate carvings, and stunning artwork. You will learn about the palace’s history, customs, and traditions from your knowledgeable guide.Hutong Family Lunch (1 hour)
After exploring the Forbidden City, the tour includes a visit to a traditional Hutong family for lunch. The Hutongs are narrow alleyways that date back to ancient times and offer a glimpse into everyday life in old Beijing. Here you can try your hand at making dumplings and enjoy a delicious family-style lunch.Summer Palace (2 hours)
Finally, the tour concludes with a visit to the Summer Palace, a serene imperial garden that served as a summer retreat for the emperor and his family. You can stroll along the tranquil lakes and enjoy the picturesque pavilions and bridges.Additional Details
Pickup Points
The tour includes pickup and drop-off from most central Beijing hotels. You can choose your preferred pickup point during the booking process.Price and Booking
The Beijing Forbidden City and Summer Palace Private Tour with Optional Peking Duck Lunch starts at $173. You can book the tour here: book the tour here.What to Wear
Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather. You may be doing a lot of walking, so it’s best to wear comfortable shoes. Also, be prepared for the weather conditions since the tour takes place outdoors.Book Your Tour Now
Exploring Beijing’s Forbidden City and Summer Palace is a must-do experience for anyone interested in Chinese history and culture. With a private tour, you can enjoy a comfortable and hassle-free excursion to these iconic landmarks, with the added benefit of a knowledgeable guide who can offer valuable insights into the attractions’ history and culture. We highly recommend the Beijing Forbidden City and Summer Palace Private Tour with Optional Peking Duck Lunch for a memorable and meaningful trip to Beijing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Beijing
1. What is Beijing?
Beijing is the capital city of China, located in the northern part of the country. It is one of the oldest cities in the world, with a history of more than 3,000 years. Beijing is also a major cultural, educational, and political center, attracting millions of tourists every year.2. What is the best time to visit Beijing?
The best time to visit Beijing is in the spring (March to May) and the autumn (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is mild and pleasant, and you can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and sightseeing. However, note that the springtime can be quite windy and dusty, so bring a mask if you are sensitive to air pollution.3. What are the must-visit attractions in Beijing?
Some of the must-visit attractions in Beijing include: – The Great Wall of China – The Forbidden City – Tiananmen Square – The Temple of Heaven – The Summer Palace – The National Museum of China – The Beijing Zoo4. How do I get around Beijing?
Beijing has a modern and efficient transportation system, which includes buses, subways, taxis, and private cars. The subway is the most convenient and affordable way to get around the city, with 17 lines covering most of the major tourist attractions. Taxis are also widely available, but be prepared to pay a higher fare during rush hour and at night.5. What is the local currency in Beijing?
The local currency in Beijing is the Chinese yuan (CNY), also known as renminbi (RMB). You can exchange your currency at banks, hotels, and airports, or withdraw cash from ATMs using your debit or credit card. Note that most businesses in Beijing prefer cash, so carry some with you at all times.6. What is the food like in Beijing?
Beijing is famous for its diverse and delicious cuisine, which includes dishes such as Peking duck, dumplings, hot pot, and zhajiangmian (noodles with soybean paste). You can find street food stalls, local restaurants, and high-end dining establishments throughout the city. Vegetarian and halal options are also available.7. What is the climate like in Beijing?
Beijing has a continental climate, characterized by hot and humid summers and cold and dry winters. The temperature can vary widely throughout the year, ranging from below freezing in the winter to over 40°C (104°F) in the summer. Spring and autumn are the most pleasant seasons, with mild temperatures and frequent sunshine.8. What is the language spoken in Beijing?
The official language of Beijing is Mandarin Chinese, which is spoken by the majority of the population. However, many people in Beijing also speak other Chinese dialects, as well as English and other foreign languages in tourist areas and business districts.9. What are some local customs and etiquette in Beijing?
When visiting Beijing, it is important to respect the local customs and etiquette. Some tips to keep in mind include: – Greet people with a nod or handshake, but avoid physical contact or hugging. – Use polite language and avoid direct criticism or confrontation. – Dress modestly and conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites. – Do not take photos without permission, especially of people or private property. – Respect the local environment and dispose of waste properly.10. What are some safety tips for traveling in Beijing?
Beijing is generally a safe city for tourists, but it is still important to take some precautions. Some safety tips to keep in mind include: – Keep your valuables, such as passports and cash, in a safe place at all times. – Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist sites. – Use reputable taxis and avoid hailing cabs on the street. – Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen, especially during the summer months. – Be cautious when crossing the street, as traffic can be heavy and fast-moving.Book Your Tour Now
Beijing is a fascinating and vibrant city with a rich cultural and historical heritage. By following these frequently asked questions and tips, you can make your visit to Beijing safe, enjoyable, and memorable. Remember to plan ahead, be respectful, and immerse yourself in the local culture to have a truly authentic experience.
How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Beijing
Beijing, the capital of China, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. The city is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, delicious food, and unique culture. As a tourist, there are countless things to do and see in Beijing, and it can be overwhelming to plan your itinerary. In this guide, we will provide you with a step-by-step plan on how to spend your time as a tourist in Beijing.Step 1: Visit the Historic Sites
Beijing is home to some of the world’s most famous historic sites, including the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven. These sites are must-visit destinations for any tourist in Beijing.The Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China is an ancient series of walls and fortifications that stretches over 13,000 miles across China’s northern borders. The most popular section of the Great Wall to visit is the Badaling section, which is located about 50 miles north of Beijing. You can take a bus, train, or taxi to get there.The Forbidden City
The Forbidden City is a sprawling palace complex that was once the home of China’s emperors. It is located in the heart of Beijing and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can spend several hours exploring the Forbidden City’s many halls, gardens, and courtyards.The Temple of Heaven
The Temple of Heaven is a complex of religious buildings that was once used by China’s emperors for prayer and sacrifice. It is located in the southeastern part of Beijing and is another UNESCO World Heritage Site.Step 2: Experience the Local Culture
Another great way to spend your time in Beijing is to experience the local culture. There are many unique cultural experiences in Beijing that you can’t find anywhere else in the world.Visit a Hutong
Hutongs are narrow alleys that are lined with traditional courtyard homes. They are an important part of Beijing’s history and culture. You can take a guided tour of a Hutong or explore one on your own.Watch a Beijing Opera
Beijing Opera is a traditional Chinese performing art that combines singing, dancing, and acrobatics. There are several theaters in Beijing where you can watch a Beijing Opera performance.Try Some Local Cuisine
Beijing is known for its delicious food, including Peking duck, dumplings, and hotpot. There are many restaurants in Beijing where you can sample the local cuisine.Step 3: Enjoy the Scenery
Beijing is also home to many stunning natural and man-made attractions that are worth visiting.The Summer Palace
The Summer Palace is a beautiful park and palace complex located in the northwest suburbs of Beijing. It was once the summer retreat of China’s emperors and is now a popular tourist destination.The Olympic Park
The Olympic Park was built for the 2008 Summer Olympics and is now a popular destination for tourists. You can take a tour of the park and see the iconic Bird’s Nest stadium and Water Cube.The Fragrant Hills
The Fragrant Hills are a scenic mountain range located in the western suburbs of Beijing. They are a popular destination for hiking and offer stunning views of the city.Step 4: Plan Your Transportation
Beijing is a sprawling city, and it can be difficult to get around if you don’t plan your transportation in advance.Take the Subway
The Beijing Subway is one of the most efficient ways to get around the city. It is clean, safe, and easy to use. You can purchase a rechargeable transportation card at any subway station.Hire a Driver
If you prefer to have more flexibility, you can hire a driver in Beijing. There are many reliable driver services available, and you can negotiate the price in advance.Take a Taxi
Taxis are available throughout Beijing, but they can be expensive during rush hour or peak tourist season. Make sure to negotiate the price in advance or ask the driver to turn on the meter.Book Your Tour Now
Beijing is a city with a rich history, unique culture, and stunning scenery. By following this step-by-step plan, you can make the most of your time as a tourist in Beijing. Make sure to visit the historic sites, experience the local culture, enjoy the scenery, and plan your transportation in advance. And don’t forget to try some delicious local cuisine!Table of Contents
