Private Day Tour: Summer Palace and Old Summer Palace in Beijing

Exploring the grand architectural wonders of Beijing’s imperial past is an opportunity not to be missed. This private day tour promises an immersive experience at two of the city’s most acclaimed sites – the Summer Palace and the Old Summer Palace. Visitors will explore the intricate history and design elements that define these iconic landmarks, gaining insights into China’s rich cultural heritage. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, this comprehensive tour ensures a seamless and captivating journey through the grandeur of the Qing dynasty. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking to uncover the captivating stories that lie within these historic gardens, this day tour is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive private tour exploring the UNESCO-listed Summer Palace and the ruins of the Old Summer Palace in Beijing.
• Guided insights into Chinese royalty, landscape design, and the unique blend of Eastern and Western architectural styles.
• Convenient package with hotel pickup/drop-off, entrance fees, lunch, bottled water, and gratuities included.
• Wheelchair and stroller-friendly surfaces for accessible exploration.
• Highly rated tour with 5.0 overall based on customer reviews, offering flexible booking and free cancellation options.

Contents

• Good To Know
• Tour Overview and Highlights
• Included in the Tour
• Itinerary Details
• Exploring Summer Palace
• Visiting Old Summer Palace
• Accessibility and Additional Information
• Customer Reviews
• Booking and Pricing
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
• Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
• Are There Any Photography Restrictions at the Sites?
• Can We Extend the Duration of the Tour?
• What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?
• Sum Up
• Our Top Picks in Beijing
• More Private Tours in Beijing
• More Tour Reviews in Beijing
• Not for you? Here's more things to do in Beijing we have recnetly reviewed

Tour Overview and Highlights

What does this private day tour in Beijing entail?

The tour offers a full-day exploration of the Summer Palace (Yiheyuan) and the Old Summer Palace (Yuanmingyuan).

Travelers will visit the UNESCO-listed Summer Palace, the largest and best-preserved imperial garden. They’ll experience the lavish lakeside landscapes and Qing-era architecture.

The tour also includes the Old Summer Palace, where visitors can discover the blend of Eastern and Western architectural styles.

Throughout the experience, a professional guide will share insights into Chinese royalty and landscape design.

The tour includes all entrance fees, lunch, and hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a comprehensive and convenient way to explore these iconic sites in Beijing.

Included in the Tour

The private day tour in Beijing includes a comprehensive package of features to provide travelers with a seamless and enriching experience. The tour covers all entrance fees, a delicious lunch, and convenient hotel pickup and drop-off. Bottled water is provided, and gratuities are included, ensuring a hassle-free journey.

Highlights of the tour include:

• Exploring the UNESCO-listed Summer Palace, the largest and best-preserved imperial garden
• Discovering the Eastern and Western architectural styles at the Old Summer Palace
• Learning about Chinese royalty and landscape design from a knowledgeable guide
• Enjoying the lavish lakeside landscapes and Qing-era architecture
• Confirming the tour at booking and accessing wheelchair and stroller-friendly surfaces.

Itinerary Details

After hotel pickup in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, the tour begins with a visit to the Summer Palace, constructed in 1750 AD during the Qing dynasty.

The tour includes exploring the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity as well as other important buildings. Visitors will spend approximately 1 hour at the Summer Palace, with 30 minutes dedicated to the Hall of Benevolence.

The next stop is the Old Summer Palace, where guests can discover the unique blend of Eastern and Western architectural styles.

Throughout the day, the professional guide will provide insights into Chinese royalty and landscape design.

Exploring Summer Palace

Though constructed in the mid-18th century during the Qing dynasty, the Summer Palace (Yiheyuan) remains one of Beijing’s most iconic and well-preserved imperial gardens.

Visitors can explore the palace’s lavish lakeside landscapes and architectural styles, which blend Eastern and Western influences.

The tour highlights several key sites, including:

• The Hall of Benevolence and Longevity, a grand ceremonial building
• Impressive gardens and pavilions along the shores of Kunming Lake
• The Marble Boat, a unique structure that showcases the palace’s ornate design
• Numerous temples, pavilions, and bridges that epitomize Qing-era craftsmanship
• Opportunities to learn about the palace’s history and its role in Chinese royal life from a knowledgeable guide.

Visiting Old Summer Palace

Along With the Summer Palace, the tour also explores the ruins of the Old Summer Palace (Yuanmingyuan), which once rivaled the grandeur of its more well-known counterpart.

Visitors will discover the unique blend of Eastern and Western architectural styles that characterized the Old Summer Palace, known as the "Garden of Gardens."

Though largely destroyed during the Second Opium War, the ruins offer a glimpse into the lavish imperial retreats of the Qing dynasty.

With the guide’s expertise, guests can learn about the complex history and design principles that shaped this once-magnificent complex, providing a fuller appreciation of China’s rich cultural heritage.

Accessibility and Additional Information

The tour offers excellent accessibility for visitors. Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

The surfaces are wheelchair accessible, and infants can sit on laps. Additionally:

• Wheelchair and stroller friendly
• Bottled water provided throughout the tour
• Gratuities included in the package
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the experience
• Price varies by group size with a lowest price guarantee available

This comprehensive private tour ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants, catering to their diverse needs and requirements.

Customer Reviews

Reviewers have praised this private day tour in Beijing, offering a 5.0 overall rating based on 4 reviews.

Customers highlight the guide’s helpfulness and knowledge, as well as the friendly drivers and tailored experiences for families with dietary needs.

The tour’s free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start is also appreciated.

Notably, the price varies by group size, with a lowest price guarantee available.

Booking and Pricing

This private day tour in Beijing offers flexible booking options and competitive pricing. You can book the tour online or by contacting the tour operator directly. The price varies based on the group size, with discounts available for larger groups.

Some key details about booking and pricing:

• Confirmation is provided at the time of booking.
• Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start of the tour.
• The lowest price guarantee ensures you get the best deal.
• Gratuities for the guide and driver are included in the tour price.
• Additional services like hotel pickup and drop-off are also covered.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour does not have a strict dress code. Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes are recommended for exploring the outdoor gardens and historic sites. Casual attire is suitable for this activity.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, as bottled water is the only refreshment provided. However, it’s recommended to enjoy the included lunch to fully experience the local cuisine.

Are There Any Photography Restrictions at the Sites?

Photography is generally permitted at both the Summer Palace and Old Summer Palace, though visitors should be mindful of any signage or restrictions in specific areas. Tripods may be prohibited in certain indoor spaces.

Can We Extend the Duration of the Tour?

You can extend the duration of the tour, but it’ll require additional fees. The tour operator is flexible and can customize the itinerary to meet your needs, though the standard tour length is about 1-2 hours per site.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Customers can receive a full refund if they cancel within this timeframe, providing flexibility and peace of mind.

Sum Up

This private day tour of Beijing’s Summer Palace and Old Summer Palace offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the grandeur and historical significance of these iconic sites. With insightful guidance, seamless logistics, and a blend of Eastern and Western architectural styles, this tour provides a comprehensive and enriching experience for visitors. Whether seeking to take in China’s royal heritage or appreciate the beauty of classical landscape design, this tour is a must-consider for any Beijing itinerary.