All Inclusive Beijing Private Day Tour to Summer Palace and Old Summer Palace

Discover Beijing’s imperial legacy through an all-encompassing private day tour that immerses you in the grandeur of the Summer Palace and the intriguing ruins of the Old Summer Palace. This extensive experience offers a seamless journey, complete with hotel pickup, a traditional Chinese lunch, and insightful commentary from a knowledgeable guide. Unravel the rich history and architectural marvels that defined China’s imperial era, as you explore these iconic sites. With convenient inclusions and flexibility to customize your itinerary, this tour promises an enriching exploration of Beijing’s cultural heritage.

Key Points

• This full-day private tour offers extensive exploration of Beijing’s renowned landmarks, including the UNESCO-listed Summer Palace and the historic Old Summer Palace.
• The tour includes insightful commentary on the architectural wonders and cultural significance of these imperial sites, providing a comprehensive look at China’s imperial heritage.
• Seamless transportation and immersive experience are included, with hotel pickup and drop-off within the 4th ring road, as well as a traditional Chinese lunch.
• The tour caters to a wide range of travelers, ensuring accessibility for all ages, with comfortable walking shoes recommended for thorough exploration.
• Flexible cancellation policies and clear communication of terms provide peace of mind, allowing adjustments to itineraries as needed.

Highlights of the Private Tour

Visitors starting on the private tour can look forward to an extensive exploration of Beijing’s renowned landmarks.

The tour showcases the grandeur of the Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site that was once an imperial retreat. Guests will wander through the stunning gardens, pavilions, and bridges, learning about the palace’s fascinating history.

The tour also includes a visit to the Old Summer Palace, providing a thorough look at China’s imperial heritage.

Throughout the day, the knowledgeable guide offers insights into the architectural wonders and cultural significance of these imperial sites.

With seamless transportation and an immersive experience, the private tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to discover the highlights of Beijing’s rich history and natural beauty.

Tour of the Summer Palace

The Summer Palace tour offers an immersive exploration of one of China’s most iconic imperial retreats. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the palace showcases the beauty of traditional Chinese garden design and architecture.

Guests will discover landscaped gardens, pavilions, lakes, and temples, including the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity and the Seventeen Arches Bridge. The guided tour provides historical context and stories about Empress Cixi, who famously expanded the palace.

Pickup from central Beijing hotels and a 45-minute drive to the site are included. While inside the palace, travelers can savor a traditional Chinese lunch, completing the cultural experience.

This half-day tour offers a glimpse into China’s imperial past and the artistry of its classical architecture.

Exploration of the Old Summer Palace

After exploring the gardens and pavilions of the Summer Palace, visitors can investigate the intriguing history and ruins of the Old Summer Palace.

Also known as Yuanmingyuan, this expansive imperial retreat was once an impressive complex of palaces, lakes, and landscaped gardens.

Sadly, the Old Summer Palace was plundered and destroyed in the 19th century.

Today, visitors can wander the remains and imagine the grandeur of the former imperial retreat.

The tour highlights the architectural elements, sculptures, and decorative features that remain, providing a glimpse into China’s rich history and culture.

Exploring the ruins of the Old Summer Palace offers a thought-provoking contrast to the well-preserved splendor of the nearby Summer Palace.

Duration and Pricing of Tours

Pricing for the diverse range of Beijing tours varies considerably, with options starting as low as $35.00 for a Great Wall bus tour and reaching up to $208.00 for a full-day, all-inclusive private tour.

Half-day tours, like the 4-hour Forbidden City walking tour, cost $40.00. Full-day excursions, which typically last 8-9 hours, are priced around $99.00 to $208.00 based on inclusions.

Entrance tickets to attractions like the Summer Palace and Temple of Heaven cost an additional $7.88. Private tours offer flexibility in pricing based on group size.

The 9-hour Great Wall bus tour is the longest option, while visits to the Summer Palace and Temple of Heaven take 1-1.5 hours.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Many of the Beijing private day tours include hotel pickup and drop-off within the 4th ring road of the city.

However, additional costs may apply for hotels located outside the 5th ring road.

The all-inclusive private tours typically cover:

1. Admission fees to top attractions like the Summer Palace and Old Summer Palace.
2. A traditional Chinese lunch at the Summer Palace.
3. The services of a knowledgeable, English-speaking guide to provide historical context.

While private tours offer more flexibility and personalization, travelers should be aware of any exclusions, such as extra fees for activities or transportation beyond the included areas.

The goal is to provide a seamless and immersive day exploring Beijing’s imperial heritage.

Tour Accessibility and Flexibility

The Beijing private day tours cater to a wide range of travelers, ensuring accessibility and flexibility to accommodate diverse needs and preferences.

Most tours are suitable for travelers of all ages and fitness levels, with comfortable walking shoes recommended. The tour options are available in English, providing better accessibility for international visitors.

Flexibility is a key feature, allowing for changes in travel plans. Cancellation policies are clear, with full refunds available for timely cancellations.

Private tours offer adjustments based on group size, ensuring an ideal experience. Whether it’s a solo traveler or a large group, the Beijing tours aim to provide a seamless and personalized experience.

Cancellation Policy and Refunds

Flexibility in travel plans is further enhanced by the clear and generous cancellation policies offered for Beijing’s private day tours.

Tourists can take advantage of:

1. Full refunds for cancellations made up to 24 hours in advance.
2. No penalties for timely cancellations, as most tours offer free cancellation.
3. Clear communication of cancellation terms provided at the time of booking, encouraging travelers to review policies prior to finalizing their plans.

This level of flexibility allows travelers to adjust their itineraries with ease, providing peace of mind and the ability to confidently book their Beijing adventures.

Additional Recommendations

Comfortable walking shoes are advised for participants of Beijing’s private day tours, as the itineraries often involve thorough exploration of historical sites and gardens.

Appropriate dress is recommended to guarantee comfort, regardless of weather conditions, as the tours operate year-round.

Travelers should also note that guided services are available at major attractions, providing valuable historical context and insights.

It’s important to review dietary requirements prior to booking, as most tour providers are accommodating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Transportation Included to and From the Tour Sites?

Transportation is typically included in Beijing tour packages. Most private tours provide hotel pickup and drop-off to guarantee a seamless experience getting to and from the tour sites.

Can the Tour Itinerary Be Customized for Our Group’s Interests?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized based on the group’s interests. Private tours offer flexible scheduling and the ability to adjust the itinerary to suit the group’s preferences.

What Type of Cuisine Is Typically Served During the Lunch?

The tour typically includes a traditional Chinese lunch, often featuring local Beijing cuisine like Peking duck or noodle dishes. Dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice, ensuring an enjoyable dining experience during the day’s activities.

Are Entrance Fees and Tickets Already Paid For, or Do We Need to Purchase Them Separately?

The entrance fees and tickets are typically included in the tour price. Customers won’t need to purchase them separately, as the tour operator handles all the logistics and prepaid admissions.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration if We Want to Explore Further?

The tour includes entrance fees, so there’s no need for additional purchases. Regarding duration, flexibility is offered – travelers can extend the tour by adding more time to explore the sites further.

Recap

This private day tour in Beijing offers a thorough exploration of the city’s imperial heritage. Visitors will enjoy the stunning gardens and architecture of the Summer Palace and the intriguing ruins of the Old Summer Palace. With convenient transportation, traditional Chinese cuisine, and an expert guide, this all-inclusive experience provides an enriching and well-rounded introduction to Beijing’s rich history and culture.