Beijing: Royal Combo ( Royal Cruise+Summer Palace) DIY Tour

The "Beijing: Royal Combo (Royal Cruise + Summer Palace) DIY Tour" offers travelers a chance to enjoy China’s imperial grandeur. Priced from £44.68 per person, this one-day experience combines a scenic river cruise along the China Seine with ample time to explore the breathtaking Summer Palace at one’s own pace. From the Marble Boat to the Long Corridor, guests can discover the highlights of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, all while benefiting from informative guides and the convenience of skip-the-line tickets. For those eager to uncover the opulence of China’s past, this tour promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Beijing’s royal legacy.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Beijing.

Key Points

• This DIY tour offers a royal experience in Beijing, combining a sightseeing cruise and a visit to the iconic Summer Palace.
• The tour includes a one-way cruise ticket, Summer Palace admission, and access to live/audio guides and textual/visual guides.
• Travelers can explore the Summer Palace at their own pace, with highlights such as the Marble Boat and Long Corridor.
• The tour allows for a personalized "Day in the Life of Royalty" experience, with the convenience of skipping ticket lines.
• Adherence to scheduled times is crucial due to admission restrictions, and caution is advised for travelers prone to seasickness during the cruise.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The tour’s name is "Beijing: Royal Combo (Royal Cruise + Summer Palace) DIY Tour," and it’s priced from £44.68 per person.

It’s a one-day tour with free cancellation up to 24 hours for a full refund. Participants can reserve now and pay later.

The tour starts at Zizhuyuan Park North Gate and follows a route that includes a sightseeing cruise and a visit to the Summer Palace, where guests can explore for 3.5 hours.

The tour includes a one-way cruise ticket, Summer Palace admission, a textual and visual guide, and live tour guide or audio guide services.

Key highlights include a royal cruise, flexible visits to multiple attractions, and the opportunity to experience a day as royal nobility while skipping ticket lines.

Itinerary Details

The tour’s itinerary starts at Zizhuyuan Park North Gate, where participants have the option to spend 10 minutes exploring the park’s free admission grounds.

From there, they’ll board a cruise at the Ziyuwan Wharf for a 28-minute journey along the waterways to the Summer Palace’s South Ruyi Wharf.

At the Summer Palace, guests will enjoy 3.5 hours of sightseeing, including access to the Dehe Garden, Tower of Buddhist Incense, Suzhou Street, and Summer Palace Museum.

The experience highlights the royal lifestyle, with the convenience of skipping ticket lines at the various attractions.

Inclusions

This tour includes a one-way cruise ticket from Ziyu Bay Pier to the Summer Palace, as well as admission to the Summer Palace itself.

Plus, the package provides:

1. A textual and visual guide to enhance your experience.
2. Access to live tour guides and audio guides for informative commentary.
3. Tickets to other popular attractions within the Summer Palace, including the Dehe Garden, Tower of Buddhist Incense, Suzhou Street, and Summer Palace Museum.

These inclusions allow you to fully learn about the royal experience, exploring the magnificent Summer Palace and its surrounding landmarks at your own pace.

Experience Highlights

Set out on a regal journey along the China Seine River, where a royal cruise awaits to whisk you away to the grandeur of the Summer Palace.

Enjoy the opulent experience of a day as royal nobility, with flexible visits to multiple attractions. Skip the ticket lines and explore the Dehe Garden, Tower of Buddhist Incense, Suzhou Street, and Summer Palace Museum at your own pace.

This DIY tour offers a truly flexible and personalized experience, allowing you to curate your own royal adventure. Discover the rich history and architectural wonders that made Beijing the seat of imperial power for centuries.

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Important Information

Adhering to scheduled times is crucial due to admission restrictions at the various attractions.

This DIY tour requires punctuality to fully experience the itinerary.

Travellers prone to seasickness should be cautious, as the cruise portion may cause discomfort.

To fully enjoy the tour, guests should bring the following:

1. Passport or ID card for entry to attractions.
2. Comfortable walking shoes to explore the expansive Summer Palace grounds.
3. Sunscreen and a hat to protect against the elements during the outdoor activities.

Following these guidelines will ensure a seamless and memorable "Day in the Life of Royalty" during this Beijing DIY tour.

Boarding and Disembarkation

Guests will board the sightseeing cruise at the Ziyuwan Wharf, the designated boarding point for this DIY tour.

The cruise takes guests on a 28-minute journey along the China Seine River to the Summer Palace.

Once at the Summer Palace, guests will disembark at the South Ruyi Wharf, the designated disembarkation point.

From there, guests can explore the Summer Palace for approximately 3.5 hours at their own pace.

The tour provides flexibility, allowing guests to visit multiple attractions within the Summer Palace grounds, including Dehe Garden, Tower of Buddhist Incense, Suzhou Street, and the Summer Palace Museum.

Adhering to the scheduled times is crucial due to admission restrictions at the various sites.

Sightseeing Cruise

The sightseeing cruise is a 28-minute journey along the China Seine River, transporting guests from the Ziyuwan Wharf to the Summer Palace‘s South Ruyi Wharf.

This river cruise offers a unique perspective of the city, allowing travelers to admire the stunning architecture and natural landscapes from the comfort of a boat.

Some highlights of the cruise include:

1. Panoramic views of the Summer Palace grounds and the surrounding hills.
2. A chance to see the iconic marble boat, a famous feature of the Summer Palace.
3. The opportunity to relax and unwind while taking in the serene atmosphere of the waterway.

The cruise is an integral part of the "Royal Combo" experience, providing a leisurely and scenic transition between the Zizhuyuan Park and the Summer Palace.

Summer Palace Visit

After disembarking the sightseeing cruise at the Summer Palace‘s South Ruyi Wharf, visitors can now explore the magnificent imperial gardens and architectural marvels that make up this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Spanning over 2.9 square kilometers, the Summer Palace boasts a stunning collection of lakes, bridges, pavilions, and temples that showcase China’s rich cultural heritage.

Visitors can wander through the Marble Boat, admire the intricate details of the Long Corridor, and ascend the Seventeen Arch Bridge for panoramic views of the entire palace complex.

With 3.5 hours allocated for sightseeing, there’s ample time to take in the regal atmosphere and uncover the captivating history of this remarkable destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book This Tour for a Group?

Yes, customers can book this tour for a group. The tour allows for flexible visits and supports group bookings, enabling customers to experience the royal cruise and Summer Palace together as a party.

Do I Need to Make Reservations in Advance?

Yes, it’s recommended to make reservations in advance for this tour. This ensures availability and allows travelers to secure their spot, especially during peak season or for large groups.

Is the Cruise Wheelchair Accessible?

The cruise is not explicitly stated to be wheelchair accessible. However, the tour operator may be able to provide more details or accommodate guests with special needs upon request. It’s best to inquire directly with the provider.

Can I Modify the Itinerary During the Tour?

Yes, guests can generally modify the itinerary during the tour, within the specified duration and attraction admission restrictions. The tour offers flexibility to accommodate individual preferences and needs.

What Is the Food and Drink Situation on the Cruise?

The tour does not include any food or drinks on the cruise. Passengers are free to bring their own snacks and beverages to enjoy during the 28-minute sightseeing journey. However, there are no catering services provided on the cruise itself.

The Sum Up

The "Beijing: Royal Combo (Royal Cruise + Summer Palace) DIY Tour" offers a unique and convenient way to explore the grandeur of China’s imperial history. With a scenic cruise, easy access to the Summer Palace, and the freedom to explore at your own pace, this tour provides an unforgettable experience for visitors to Beijing. Its affordable price and informative guides make it an excellent choice for those seeking to enjoy the city’s rich cultural heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here: