Beijing tours

Here is a selection of the best guided tours in Beijing: 1) Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Day Tour 2) Beijing By Night Tour With Public Transportation 3) One Day Beijing Must-see Attractions Private Tour 4) Beijing Must Sees Tour: Hutong, Lama Temple, Drum Tower & Beijing Zoo 5) Simatai Great Wall and Gubei Water Town Full Day Tour

Beijing, the capital city of China, is rich in history, culture, and modern attractions. Here are some must-do things in Beijing: Explore the Forbidden City: Step back in time and explore the Forbidden City, a vast imperial palace complex that served as the home of Chinese emperors for over 500 years. Wander through its grand halls, courtyards, and gardens, and learn about China's imperial history and culture. Walk through Tiananmen Square: Located in the heart of Beijing, Tiananmen Square is one of the largest public squares in the world and an important symbol of China. Visit landmarks like the Monument to the People's Heroes, the Great Hall of the People, and the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall. Discover the Temple of Heaven: Explore the Temple of Heaven, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Beijing's most iconic landmarks. Admire the stunning architecture of the temple complex, including the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, and learn about its significance in Chinese religious and cultural traditions. Visit the Summer Palace: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and spend a day at the Summer Palace, a beautiful imperial garden retreat. Explore the sprawling grounds, pavilions, and lakes, and enjoy scenic boat rides on Kunming Lake. Wander through the Hutongs: Explore Beijing's historic hutongs, narrow alleyways lined with traditional courtyard homes. Take a rickshaw tour or simply wander on foot to experience the city's traditional way of life, sample local snacks, and interact with residents. Experience the Temple of Confucius and Lama Temple: Visit the Temple of Confucius and the nearby Lama Temple to learn about Confucianism and Tibetan Buddhism, respectively. Marvel at the intricate architecture, ornate decorations, and serene atmosphere of these sacred sites. Sample Beijing Cuisine: Indulge in Beijing's delicious cuisine, including iconic dishes like Peking duck, dumplings, and Beijing noodles. Explore local markets, street food stalls, and traditional restaurants to experience authentic flavors and culinary traditions. Watch a Chinese Acrobatics Show: Experience the thrill and excitement of Chinese acrobatics with a live performance in Beijing. Marvel at the incredible feats of strength, balance, and agility performed by talented acrobats. Visit the 798 Art District: Explore Beijing's thriving contemporary art scene at the 798 Art District, a former industrial area transformed into a hub for galleries, studios, and creative spaces. Discover cutting-edge artworks, street art, and cultural events in this vibrant neighborhood. These are just a few of the many must-do things in Beijing. Whether you're interested in history, culture, art, or cuisine, Beijing offers a wealth of experiences for every traveler.

The cost of a private tour in Beijing can vary depending on several factors, including the duration of the tour, the specific attractions or areas you wish to visit, the level of customization, and the number of people in your group. Additionally, prices may vary among different guides, as they set their own prices with ToursByLocals. The cost of a private tour in Beijing typically ranges from around $100 - $400. It's important to note that each guide sets their own prices, which is why there can be a large variation between one guide and another. When planning a private tour, be sure to read the 'what's included' and 'what's extra' sections of the tour page. If you don't quite see what you are looking for, you can send a message to the guide and discuss customizing a tour to meet your specific needs and budget.

Here are some of the top tours in Beijing, each highly rated with many five star reviews! 1) 2 Days in Beijing Tour - with Mutianyu Great Wall 2) Private Two-Day Comprehensive Tour of Beijing and Mutianyu Great Wall 3) Beijing Attractions Tour - Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Great Wall and Summer Palace 4) 2 Days Tour of Main Beijing Attractions and The Great Wall of China 5) Private One Day Tour to Mutianyu Great Wall and The Forbidden City

ToursByLocals guides set their own prices in order to compensate themselves fairly for the hard work they do and the time spent preparing for the private tour as well as delivering the tour itself. Therefore there is no expectation for ToursByLocals customers to tip their guide. Writing a review after the tour is a great way to show your appreciation to your guide as it helps them receive more inquiries in the future.

Guided tours are perfect for getting in-depth knowledge about the history, culture, and significance of the places you're visiting. If you're interested in learning about Beijing from a local expert, a guided tour can be very informative, and an excellent use of your vacation time. A local guide can help bridge the communication gap in areas where English is not widely spoken. If you have limited time in Beijing and want to see as much as possible in a short period, a private guided tour can be efficient. That way you are not restricted by a set schedule and can prioritise what you want to see in the time you have. Although private tours are generally more expensive than a group tour, they’re remarkably value: a good guide can provide you with insider tips, hidden gems, and local recommendations that will help you avoid tourist traps or overpriced places during your stay. ToursByLocals guided tours can be tailored to specific interests, such as art, history, or food. If you have a niche interest, a specialised tour can enhance your experience.

Yes, you can hire a tour guide in Beijing. Hiring a tour guide can be a great way to enhance your travel experience and gain valuable insights into the local culture, history, and attractions. ToursByLocals has over 20 local guides in Beijing who are local experts and offer a wide range of customizable private tours. They will work with you to customize an itinerary based on your interests and preferences. Private tour guides can provide a more personalized experience and offer flexibility in terms of scheduling and activities.

Beijing is surrounded by several fascinating destinations that make for excellent day trips. Here are some popular options for day trips from Beijing: Great Wall of China: While sections of the Great Wall are accessible from Beijing itself, you can also take a day trip to explore more remote and less crowded sections. Popular choices include Mutianyu, Jinshanling, and Simatai. Each section offers unique scenery and hiking opportunities, along with stunning views of the wall snaking across the landscape. Summer Palace: Located about 15 kilometers northwest of Beijing's city center, the Summer Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of China's most famous imperial gardens. Spend the day exploring the vast complex, which includes beautiful gardens, pavilions, temples, and the scenic Kunming Lake. Ming Tombs: Just outside Beijing, the Ming Tombs are the burial grounds of 13 emperors of the Ming Dynasty. Explore the grandiose architecture and learn about imperial burial customs as you visit sites like the Sacred Way and the Dingling Tomb, the tomb of Emperor Zhu Yijun. Chengde: Located about 230 kilometers northeast of Beijing, Chengde is known for its UNESCO-listed Mountain Resort and its collection of imperial temples. Spend the day exploring the extensive gardens, lakes, and pavilions of the Mountain Resort, as well as the nearby Eight Outer Temples. Tianjin: Less than an hour away from Beijing by high-speed train, Tianjin offers a change of pace with its mix of colonial architecture, modern skyscrapers, and cultural attractions. Visit highlights such as the Ancient Culture Street, the Tianjin Eye Ferris wheel, and the Italian-style Tianjin Concession Area. The Imperial Hunting Park (Chengde): Located about 230 kilometers northeast of Beijing, Chengde is known for its UNESCO-listed Mountain Resort and its collection of imperial temples. Spend the day exploring the extensive gardens, lakes, and pavilions of the Mountain Resort, as well as the nearby Eight Outer Temples. Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall: Experience traditional Chinese culture at Gubei Water Town, a recreated ancient town built around a reservoir. Combine your visit with a hike along the nearby Simatai Great Wall, which offers stunning views and a thrilling experience with its rugged terrain and unrestored sections. Longqing Gorge: Located about 85 kilometers north of Beijing, Longqing Gorge is known for its scenic beauty, with steep cliffs, lush forests, and the winding Guanting Reservoir. Take a boat ride on the reservoir, ride the cable car for panoramic views, and explore the surrounding countryside. These are just a few options for day trips from Beijing, each offering its own unique attractions and experiences. Whether you're interested in history, culture, nature, or scenic beauty, there's something for every traveler within easy reach of China's capital.

The number of days you need to tour Beijing depends on your interests, the pace at which you prefer to travel, and the attractions you want to visit. However, to experience the highlights of Beijing thoroughly, most travelers find that spending at least 3 to 5 days in the city is ideal. Here's a suggested itinerary for a 4-day visit of Beijing: Day 1: Arrival in Beijing Arrive in Beijing and check into your accommodation. Spend the afternoon exploring Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world. Visit landmarks such as the Monument to the People's Heroes and the Great Hall of the People. Walk through the Forbidden City, the former imperial palace complex that served as the home of Chinese emperors for over 500 years. Marvel at its grand halls, courtyards, and gardens. Optional: Watch the flag-raising ceremony at Tiananmen Square at sunrise or sunset. Day 2: Great Wall and Ming Tombs Take a day trip to the Great Wall of China, one of the most iconic attractions in the world. Choose a section of the wall to visit, such as Mutianyu, Jinshanling, or Badaling. Spend the day hiking along the wall and enjoying the stunning views. Visit the Ming Tombs, the burial grounds of 13 emperors of the Ming Dynasty. Explore sites such as the Sacred Way and the Dingling Tomb, the tomb of Emperor Zhu Yijun. Return to Beijing in the evening and relax at your accommodation. Day 3: Temple of Heaven and Summer Palace Visit the Temple of Heaven, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Beijing's most iconic landmarks. Explore its stunning architecture, including the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, and learn about its significance in Chinese religious and cultural traditions. Spend the afternoon at the Summer Palace, a beautiful imperial garden retreat. Explore its vast grounds, pavilions, and lakes, and enjoy a scenic boat ride on Kunming Lake. Optional: Attend a traditional Chinese opera or acrobatics show in the evening. Day 4: Hutongs and Cultural Sites Explore Beijing's historic hutongs, narrow alleyways lined with traditional courtyard homes. Take a rickshaw tour or wander on foot to experience the city's traditional way of life, sample local snacks, and interact with residents. Visit cultural sites such as the Lama Temple and the Temple of Confucius to learn about Tibetan Buddhism and Confucianism, respectively. Spend the afternoon shopping for souvenirs and exploring the Wangfujing shopping street or the Panjiayuan Antique Market. Optional: Take a night tour of Beijing to see the city's landmarks illuminated after dark. This itinerary provides a balanced mix of iconic landmarks, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures, allowing you to make the most of your time in Beijing. Feel free to adjust the itinerary based on your interests and preferences.

The cost of a 7-day trip to Beijing from the US can vary depending on various factors, including the time of year, your travel preferences, and your spending habits. Here are some factors to consider when estimating the cost: Airfare: The cost of round-trip flights from the US to Beijing will depend on factors such as the time of booking, the airline chosen, the time of year you're traveling, and any current promotions or deals. On average, flights from the US to Beijing can range from $600 to $1500 or more per person. Accommodation: The cost of accommodation in Beijing can vary depending on the type of accommodation (e.g., hotel, Airbnb, hostel), location, and quality. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $200 or more per night for accommodation in Beijing, depending on your preferences and budget. Transportation: Once in Beijing, you may incur additional transportation costs for getting around the city and exploring the surrounding area. This can include public transportation (e.g., subway, buses), taxis, and organized tours. Budget for transportation within the city as well as any day trips or excursions you plan to take. Food and Activities: Budget for meals, snacks, drinks, and entrance fees to attractions during your stay in Beijing. The cost of dining out and participating in activities will depend on your preferences and the type of experiences you're seeking. Visa Fees: US citizens traveling to China typically require a tourist visa, which comes with associated fees. Make sure to budget for visa application fees, which can vary depending on your location and processing options. Considering these factors, a rough estimate for a 7-day trip to Beijing from the US could range from $1500 to $4000 or more per person, excluding the cost of souvenirs and additional personal expenses. It's essential to research and plan your trip carefully to get the best value for your budget. Additionally, consider using travel comparison websites and booking in advance to potentially save on flights and accommodation costs.

When visiting Beijing, there are several neighborhoods and areas that offer a range of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. Here are some popular areas to consider for your stay in Beijing: Dongcheng District (near Forbidden City): This area is located in the heart of Beijing and is home to some of the city's most famous landmarks, including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and the Temple of Heaven. Staying in Dongcheng District provides easy access to these attractions and is ideal for travelers interested in history and culture. There are plenty of accommodation options in this area, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Chaoyang District (Sanlitun and CBD): Chaoyang District is known for its modern skyscrapers, shopping malls, and vibrant nightlife. The Sanlitun area is popular among expats and young professionals and offers a wide range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. The Central Business District (CBD) is home to many international companies and luxury hotels. Staying in Chaoyang District provides easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment options, as well as convenient transportation links. Xicheng District (Houhai and Shichahai): Xicheng District is known for its historic hutongs (narrow alleyways) and scenic lakes, including Houhai and Shichahai. Staying in this area offers a glimpse into traditional Beijing life and provides easy access to attractions such as the Drum and Bell Towers, Prince Gong's Mansion, and the Beijing Zoo. Accommodation options range from boutique hotels to traditional courtyard guesthouses. Haidian District (near Zhongguancun): Haidian District is home to several universities, research institutions, and technology companies, including Tsinghua University and Peking University. The area around Zhongguancun is known as China's Silicon Valley and is a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. Staying in Haidian District provides easy access to educational institutions, tech companies, and cultural attractions like the Summer Palace and Yuanmingyuan Park. Wangfujing and Dongdan: Wangfujing is one of Beijing's most famous shopping streets, known for its luxury boutiques, department stores, and traditional Chinese snacks. Dongdan is another bustling area with shopping malls, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Staying in this area provides easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment options, as well as cultural attractions like the National Museum of China and the National Art Museum of China. When choosing where to stay in Beijing, consider factors such as proximity to attractions, transportation links, and your preferences for accommodations. Whether you prefer to be in the heart of the city or in a quieter neighborhood, Beijing offers a range of options to suit every traveler's needs.

The best time to visit Beijing depends on your preferences for weather, crowds, and activities. Here's a breakdown of the different seasons and what they offer: Spring (March to May): Spring is one of the best times to visit Beijing, with mild temperatures, clear skies, and blooming flowers. March and April are particularly pleasant, with temperatures gradually warming up and the city coming alive with cherry blossoms. Spring is also a great time to explore outdoor attractions such as the Great Wall and the Forbidden City without the crowds of summer. Summer (June to August): Summer is peak tourist season in Beijing, with hot temperatures, high humidity, and occasional rainfall. Despite the heat, summer is a popular time to visit Beijing due to school vacations and festivals. It's a great time to explore indoor attractions such as museums, art galleries, and theaters, as well as outdoor attractions like the Summer Palace and Olympic Park. Be prepared for large crowds and long lines at popular tourist sites. Autumn (September to November): Autumn is another excellent time to visit Beijing, with mild temperatures, clear skies, and colorful foliage. September and October are particularly beautiful, with pleasant weather and fewer tourists compared to summer. Autumn is a great time to visit the Great Wall, as the foliage turns golden and the weather is ideal for hiking. It's also a good time to explore cultural attractions such as the Temple of Heaven and the Lama Temple. Winter (December to February): Winter in Beijing can be cold and dry, with occasional snowfall and temperatures dropping below freezing. While winter is the least popular time to visit Beijing due to the cold weather, it's also the least crowded, making it a great time to explore indoor attractions such as the Forbidden City, the National Museum of China, and the Temple of Confucius. Winter is also a great time to enjoy winter activities such as ice skating at Beihai Park and skiing at nearby ski resorts. Overall, the best time to visit Beijing depends on your preferences for weather, crowds, and activities. Whether you prefer mild temperatures and blooming flowers in spring, colorful foliage and fewer tourists in autumn, or winter activities and indoor attractions in winter, Beijing offers something for every traveler year-round. Just be sure to check the weather forecast and plan accordingly, especially if you're visiting during peak tourist seasons.