2-Day Beijing Tour With Forbidden City and Great Wall

Beijing, the ancient capital of China, boasts a rich cultural heritage that captivates visitors from around the world. This 2-day tour offers a glimpse into the city’s storied past, from the grandeur of the Forbidden City to the breathtaking vistas of the Great Wall. Travelers can explore the expansive Tiananmen Square, uncover the mysteries of the Temple of Heaven, and hike along the iconic Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. The tour culminates at the serene Summer Palace, leaving guests with a deeper appreciation for Beijing’s timeless allure. Whether seeking historical insights or scenic wonders, this comprehensive itinerary promises an unforgettable adventure.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best 2 Day Tours In Beijing.

Key Points

• This 2-day Beijing tour offers a comprehensive exploration of iconic landmarks, including the Forbidden City and the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall.
• The tour is priced at $405.00 per person after a 10% discount and includes private transportation, an English-speaking guide, and all entry fees.
• Day 1 covers Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, Jingshan Hill, and the Temple of Heaven, providing insights into China’s rich cultural heritage.
• On Day 2, the tour visits the Mutianyu Great Wall, offering hiking opportunities or cable car access, followed by the Imperial Garden and Summer Palace.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, and optional cultural experiences, such as Kungfu or Acrobatic shows, are available for an additional fee.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This 2-day Beijing tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks, including the renowned Forbidden City and the breathtaking Great Wall.

Priced from $450.00, the tour now features a 10% discount, making it $405.00 per person. Travelers can conveniently reserve their spot and pay later, and they’re eligible for a full refund if they cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour includes private transportation, an English-speaking guide, and all necessary entry fees. With a duration of 2 days, this immersive experience is a must-consider for those seeking to discover the rich history and cultural gems of Beijing.

Day 1 Itinerary

The day begins with an English-speaking guide and driver greeting participants at their hotel.

They’ll first visit Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest city center square, and see landmarks like the Great Hall of the People and Chairman Mao’s Mausoleum.

Next, they’ll walk to the Forbidden City – the largest and best-preserved imperial palace, home to 24 emperors. Visitors can climb Jingshan Hill for panoramic views before enjoying a local lunch.

In the afternoon, they’ll explore the sacred Temple of Heaven, where emperors worshipped the God of Heaven, and observe elders engaging in dance and Taiji.

• Tiananmen Square and its iconic landmarks
• The expansive Forbidden City and its 9,999.5 rooms
• Panoramic views from Jingshan Hill
• Visiting the Temple of Heaven and observing local activities

Tiananmen Square and Forbidden City

Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest city center square, provides a grand gateway to the sprawling Forbidden City.

Visitors will marvel at the iconic Gate of Heavenly Peace, the symbolic heart of China, and the Great Hall of the People, the meeting place for China’s legislative body.

At the square’s center stands Chairman Mao’s Mausoleum, a revered site for many Chinese.

From here, the tour moves into the Forbidden City, the former imperial palace that housed 24 emperors over nearly 500 years.

Explore the complex’s 9,999.5 rooms, constructed by over one million workers, and climb Jingshan Hill for panoramic views of this architectural masterpiece and the sprawling city beyond.

Temple of Heaven Experience

After exploring the grandeur of Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, the tour progresses to the serene Temple of Heaven.

This iconic site was once used by Ming and Qing dynasty emperors for their annual rituals to pray for good harvests.

Visitors can observe the locals engaging in various activities, such as:

• Traditional Chinese dance
• Tai Chi practice
• Calligraphy demonstrations
• Musical performances

The temple’s harmonious architecture and tranquil atmosphere provide a peaceful respite from the bustling city.

This experience offers a glimpse into China’s rich cultural heritage and the deep spiritual connection between the emperor and the Heavens.

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Day 2 Itinerary

On the second day, the tour takes visitors to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, one of the world’s most iconic landmarks.

Located 80 kilometers from the city center, it’s a 1.5-hour drive to reach this well-preserved and scenic part of the Great Wall. Visitors can hike along the wall for 2 hours, or opt for the convenient cable car access.

After a local Chinese lunch, the tour moves on to the Imperial Garden and Summer Palace, known for its 3,000 rooms and stunning pavilions, bridges, and temples.

Mutianyu Great Wall Excursion

The Mutianyu Great Wall, one of the most well-preserved and scenic sections of the iconic structure, is the highlight of the second day’s itinerary.

Located 80 kilometers from the city center, it offers a 1.5-hour drive to reach the site. Visitors can enjoy a 2-hour hiking experience along the wall, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

For added convenience, a cable car is available for those who prefer a more relaxed ascent.

The excursion includes:

• Exploration of the Mutianyu Great Wall
• Lunch at a local Chinese restaurant
• Panoramic vistas of the wall and its serene natural setting
• Optional cable car or toboggan ride for a hassle-free experience

Imperial Garden and Summer Palace

Following the conclusion of the Mutianyu Great Wall excursion, visitors will be taken to the Imperial Garden and Summer Palace.

This expansive site features over 3,000 rooms and offers scenic views of pavilions, bridges, and temples. Guests can stroll through the Imperial Garden, a beautifully landscaped oasis within the Summer Palace grounds.

The Summer Palace itself was a favorite retreat of Chinese emperors, showcasing intricate architecture and stunning natural landscapes.

After exploring these historic imperial grounds, the tour will pass by the iconic Olympic Park, home to the Bird’s Nest stadium and Water Cube aquatics center from the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Inclusions and Important Information

This private Beijing tour includes several key features to enhance the experience. The tour provides cable car or toboggan access to the iconic Mutianyu Great Wall, as well as a delicious lunch at a local Chinese restaurant.

Travelers will be accompanied by a licensed English-speaking guide and transported in a private vehicle, with hotel pickup and drop-off included. Bottled water is provided throughout the tour.

Key inclusions are:

• Entry/admission to Forbidden City, Jingshan Park, Temple of Heaven, Mutianyu Great Wall, and Summer Palace
• Optional Kungfu or Acrobatic show
• Confirmation received at booking

It’s important to note that the Forbidden City is closed on Mondays, and a valid passport is required on the travel day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Possible to Visit the Tour Sites Individually?

Yes, it’s possible to visit the tour sites individually. The key attractions, including the Forbidden City, Great Wall, and Summer Palace, can be explored separately at one’s own pace without booking the full 2-day tour package.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The dress code for the tour is casual and comfortable. Wear sturdy walking shoes, and dress in layers as the weather may change throughout the day. There are no specific requirements, but visitors should avoid revealing or overly formal attire.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour Activities?

The tour has no age restrictions, but children must be accompanied by an adult. Travelers of all ages can participate in the activities, though the tour may not be recommended for those with certain physical limitations.

Can the Tour Be Customized or Personalized?

The tour can be personalized, as it’s a private tour. Travelers can discuss any special requests or preferences with the tour operator to customize the itinerary to their needs. However, the core activities and attractions remain fixed.

Are There Any Additional Costs Not Covered in the Inclusions?

The tour price includes all the key inclusions listed. There are no additional costs beyond the tour price, except for optional activities like acrobatic or Kung Fu shows, which have an additional fee.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Beijing tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks. Visitors can marvel at the grandeur of the Forbidden City, challenge themselves on the scenic Mutianyu Great Wall, and immerse in the serene beauty of the Summer Palace. With a balance of historical sites and natural landscapes, this tour provides an unforgettable cultural experience in the heart of China’s capital.

You can check if your dates are available here: