How to Plan Your VIP No Shopping Private Tour of Badaling Great Wall and Summer Palace in Beijing
If you’re visiting Beijing and want to explore its most popular sights without the hassle of haggling over prices or being taken to shops along the way, consider booking the VIP No Shopping Private Tour of Badaling Great Wall and Summer Palace. Operated by China Seeing Tours, this tour is designed to give you a hassle-free and comfortable experience of two of Beijing’s most iconic landmarks. In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about this tour, including the highlights, what’s included, pickup details, and additional information.Overview
This tour is a private, full-day tour that takes you to the Great Wall at Badaling and the Summer Palace (Yiheyuan). You’ll be transported in an air-conditioned vehicle and accompanied by an English-speaking tour guide. The tour includes cable car access to the Great Wall, lunch, and tips for the tour guide and driver. The expense does not include your hotel in Beijing.What’s Included
- Air-conditioned vehicle transfer service
- Lunch
- English-speaking tour guide service. Other languages are available with an extra charge.
- Cable car at the Great Wall
- Tips for the tour guide and driver
- The tour expense excludes your hotel in Beijing.
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup points: Your hotel in Beijing or other designated location Start time: 08:00 AM Pickup details: Pick-up time can be customized. Please inform the operator in advance.What to Expect
During this tour, you’ll get to visit two of Beijing’s most popular attractions:The Great Wall at Badaling
Badaling is the most well-known section of the Great Wall, and it is the closest one to Beijing. You’ll take a cable car up to the wall, giving you a spectacular view of the surrounding countryside. Once there, you’ll have time to explore the wall and take in the breathtaking scenery.Summer Palace (Yiheyuan)
The Summer Palace was the imperial summer resort during the Qing dynasty. It features beautiful gardens, pavilions, and lakes. Your tour guide will take you through the various highlights of the palace, giving you insights into Chinese history and culture.Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at the time of booking
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Children taller than 1.1 meters will be charged full price; children shorter than 1.1 meters will be charged half-price
- Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
Frequently Asked Questions about Beijing
Beijing is a vibrant city in China that is home to over 21 million people. As the country’s capital, the city is rich in history and culture, and attracts millions of visitors every year. If you’re planning a trip to Beijing, there may be many questions you have about the city. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Beijing, along with their answers.1. What is the best time of year to visit Beijing?
The best time of year to visit Beijing is in the fall, from September to November, when the temperatures are mild and there is less rainfall. Spring from March to May is also a good time to visit, but there can be occasional sandstorms. Summer months can be quite hot and humid, and the city can get crowded due to the peak tourist season.2. What is the currency used in Beijing?
The currency used in Beijing is the Chinese Yuan (CNY), also known as Renminbi (RMB). You can exchange money at banks and exchange bureaus, or withdraw cash from ATMs. Most establishments in Beijing accept credit cards, but it’s always advisable to carry cash for small transactions.3. What are the top tourist attractions in Beijing?
Beijing is home to many world-famous tourist attractions, including the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven. Other popular attractions include the Summer Palace, the National Stadium (also known as the Bird’s Nest), and the 798 Art District.4. How do I get around in Beijing?
Beijing has a comprehensive public transportation system, including subways, buses, and taxis. The subway is the most convenient and affordable way to get around the city, with signs and announcements in both Chinese and English. Taxis can also be a good option, but be sure to take licensed taxis and confirm the fare before you get in.5. What should I eat in Beijing?
Beijing is home to many traditional Chinese dishes that are famous around the world. Some of the must-try dishes include Peking duck, jingjiang rousi (shredded pork in bean sauce), and zhajiangmian (noodles with soybean paste). You can find these dishes in both high-end restaurants and street food markets.6. What is the weather like in Beijing?
Beijing has a continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold and dry, with temperatures dropping below freezing. Summers are hot and humid, with occasional rain showers. Spring and fall are mild and pleasant, with comfortable temperatures and less rainfall.7. How can I access the internet in Beijing?
Wi-Fi is widely available in Beijing, and many hotels, cafes, and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi to customers. You can also purchase a local SIM card to use mobile data on your smartphone while in Beijing. However, some websites and social media platforms may be blocked in China, so it’s advisable to use a virtual private network (VPN) if you need to access these sites.8. What is the etiquette for visiting temples and historical sites in Beijing?
When visiting temples and historical sites in Beijing, it’s important to show respect and follow the customs and traditions. Dress modestly, remove your hat and shoes before entering temples, and avoid loud or disruptive behavior. It’s also polite to bow or nod your head when greeting locals and monks.Book Your Tour Now
Beijing is a vibrant and fascinating city that has a lot to offer visitors. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or shopping, there is something for everyone in this exciting metropolis. By following these frequently asked questions and their answers, you can plan a memorable trip to Beijing and make the most of your time in this amazing city.
How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Beijing
Beijing, the capital city of China, is a fascinating destination, steeped in both ancient and modern cultures, with numerous places to explore and things to do. In this guide, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Beijing.1. Visit the Great Wall of China
Without any doubt, the Great Wall of China is Beijing’s star attraction, known worldwide as one of the most significant feats of human engineering. Visiting the Great Wall is a must-do activity when in Beijing. The wall stretches over 13,000 miles long and can be visited from different sections. The most famous sections are Badaling and Mutianyu, which offer stunning views and well-preserved structures. Other less-visited sections include Jinshanling, Simatai, and Huanghuacheng.Tips:
– To avoid crowds, visit the wall early in the morning or later in the afternoon. – Wear comfortable walking shoes and carry water as the terrain can be steep and challenging. – Take public transportation, such as the bus or taxi, to reach the wall’s entrances, which are about 1.5 to 3 hours away from Beijing.2. Tour the Forbidden City
The Forbidden City, located at the heart of Beijing, is a massive palace complex that served as the central hub of the Ming and Qing dynasties. The complex consists of several palaces and buildings with beautiful gardens and a rich history. A tour of the Forbidden City is like walking through time, offering a glimpse of Chinese history and culture.Tips:
– Plan your visit in advance and purchase tickets online to avoid long queues. – Wear comfortable shoes as the complex covers a vast area, and you will be walking around for some time. – Join a guided tour to learn more about the various buildings and the history of the palace complex.3. Explore the Temple of Heaven
The Temple of Heaven is a beautiful Taoist temple, located in the south of Beijing. The temple was built in the Ming dynasty and served as a site for the emperors to pray for a good harvest and blessings for the nation. The temple’s main structure is the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, a stunning structure supported by several massive wooden pillars.Tips:
– Visit the temple early in the morning to beat the crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere. – Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking around the temple’s massive gardens. – Catch a glimpse of the locals practicing tai chi in the temple’s open spaces.4. Wander around the Hutongs
The Hutongs are Beijing’s traditional alleyways, with narrow streets and preserved traditional Chinese architecture. A walk around the Hutongs is like a journey back in time, offering a glimpse of Chinese city life before modernization. The Hutongs offer visitors a chance to experience the old way of life in Beijing by visiting traditional Chinese houses, shoemakers, silk sellers, and more.Tips:
– Take a rickshaw ride around the Hutongs for a more authentic experience. – Stop by local restaurants to try traditional Beijing snacks such as hand-pulled noodles and jianbing. – Take the time to chat with locals and learn more about their lives and the history of the Hutongs.5. Visit the Summer Palace
The Summer Palace is a massive palace complex and a beautiful garden retreat located on the outskirts of Beijing. The palace served as a summer getaway spot for the emperors during the Qing dynasty. The complex includes several gardens, palaces, and temples, all set around the stunning Kunming Lake.Tips:
– Visit the palace early in the morning or later in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. – Wear comfortable shoes as the palace covers a vast area, and you will be walking around for some time. – Go for a boat ride on Kunming Lake for a unique view of the palace complex.6. Get a Taste of Beijing Cuisine
Beijing is known for its rich culinary culture, and one of the essential items on your itinerary should be trying out the city’s delicious street food. You can find stalls selling a wide variety of foods, from roasted Beijing duck to lamb skewers, dumplings, pancakes, and more.Tips:
– Try out the Peking duck from one of the many famous restaurants. – Visit Wangfujing Snack Street for a wide variety of traditional Beijing snacks. – Be cautious when trying out new street food and only purchase from reputable vendors. In conclusion, Beijing is a city full of culture, history, and unique experiences. With this guide, you should be able to make the most out of your time in Beijing, visiting the most popular attractions while also experiencing the city’s authentic culture and cuisine. Remember to plan your itinerary in advance, wear comfortable shoes, and be respectful of the local culture and traditions.Table of Contents
