Beijing’s best city tours focus on two main attractions: the Forbidden City and the Great Wall. The most worthwhile Forbidden City tours include skip-the-line access and expert guides who bring the imperial palace’s history to life. For the Great Wall, I’m especially fond of the tours to less-crowded Mutianyu section, where you can combine hiking with cable car rides and an exciting toboggan descent.
What makes these tours stand out is their flexibility – you’ll find options for every schedule and ability level, from half-day walks to multi-day adventures. The guides are top-notch, offering clear historical context and cultural insights without overwhelming you with dates and dynasty names. I particularly love the morning tours that include traditional activities like Tai Chi or tea ceremonies.
Let’s look at my favorite Beijing tours and what makes them special.
Key Points
- Forbidden City tours offer diverse options, including private, small group, and multi-day experiences with prepaid tickets, hotel pickup, and knowledgeable guides.
- Great Wall tours at Mutianyu provide VIP fast-track entry, cable car or toboggan rides, and personalized experiences tailored to various fitness levels.
- Cultural immersion through activities like Tai Chi, tea ceremonies, and Hutong exploration add authentic local experiences to city tours.
- Comprehensive city highlights tours cover top attractions like Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, with inclusive transportation and meals.
- Highly rated tours by knowledgeable guides receive positive feedback from past travelers, offering good value for money and flexible booking options.
4-Hour Private Beijing Walking Tour of the Forbidden City
For the 4-Hour Private Beijing Walking Tour of the Forbidden City, travelers can expect a comprehensive exploration of this iconic UNESCO World Heritage site.
The half-day tour includes a professional guide, pre-paid entrance tickets, and hotel pickup within the 4th ring road. Visitors will spend 2 hours exploring the Forbidden City’s massive palace complex, admiring cultural relics and key landmarks like the Meridian Gate, various halls, and the Imperial Garden.
Additional stops at the Hall of Union, Hall of Great Harmony, and Hall of Preserving Harmony provide deeper insights into China’s imperial history.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and a valid passport is required on the day of travel.
Read our full review: 4-Hour Private Beijing Walking Tour of the Forbidden City Review
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Beijing: Mutianyu Great Wall and Forbidden City Private Tour
This comprehensive 9-hour private tour allows travelers to explore two of Beijing’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites – the Mutianyu Great Wall and the Forbidden City.
Visitors will enjoy VIP fast-track entry to the less crowded Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, where they’ll have 2.5 hours to take in the stunning views.
The tour also includes a 2-hour guided walk through the Forbidden City, the largest ancient palace complex in the world.
Comfortable private transportation, entrance fees, and a professional English-speaking guide are all included, making this an efficient and hassle-free way to experience Beijing’s top attractions.
Read our full review: Beijing: Mutianyu Great Wall and Forbidden City Private Tour Review
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4-Hour Small Group Tour to Forbidden City With Entry Tickets
Travelers seeking a comprehensive introduction to the iconic Forbidden City in Beijing can opt for this 4-hour small group tour.
With a maximum of 15 participants, the tour provides fast-track entry to the palace complex and a guided exploration of its significant sights. From Tiananmen Square to the Hall of Preserving Harmony, the knowledgeable guide brings the history and architecture to life.
While the tour may face occasional disruptions due to potential Tiananmen Square closures, the overall experience is highly rated by past travelers.
With convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off, this tour offers an efficient and informative way to discover the Forbidden City’s grandeur.
Read our full review: 4-Hour Small Group Tour to Forbidden City With Entry Tickets Review
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Beijing: Forbidden City and Tian’anmen Square Tour
Discover the grandeur of Beijing’s iconic landmarks on this captivating tour of the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square. Priced from Kč 956 per person, this small-group or private tour offers options ranging from 4 to 9 hours.
Highlights include guided explorations of Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, along with possible visits to the Temple of Heaven, Hutongs, or Mutianyu Great Wall.
With free cancellation and reserve now, pay later options, this tour provides excellent value. Praised by past travelers for its knowledgeable guides, the tour earns a stellar 4.9/5 rating.
Bring your passport, and note that real identity is required for entry to the Forbidden City.
Read our full review: Beijing: Forbidden City and Tian’anmen Square Tour Review
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Beijing Private Tour: 2 Days Forbidden City and Mutianyu Great Wall VIP Tour
Beijing’s iconic landmarks come alive on this private two-day tour exploring the Forbidden City and the magnificent Mutianyu Great Wall.
With skip-the-line access, you’ll beat the crowds and enjoy a personalized experience guided by a knowledgeable, multilingual expert.
Day one takes you to Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven, capped off with a delectable Peking duck lunch.
The next day, you’ll ascend the less crowded Mutianyu section of the Great Wall via cable car or chairlift, then enjoy a thrilling toboggan ride down.
Throughout, you’ll benefit from hotel pickups, comfortable transportation, and attentive service – an unforgettable way to learn about Beijing’s rich history and culture.
Read our full review: Beijing Private Tour: 2 Days Forbidden City and Mutianyu Great Wall VIP Tour Review
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Small Group Tour With Beijing Great Wall And Forbidden City
A small group tour offers an immersive exploration of Beijing’s iconic Great Wall and Forbidden City.
This 8-hour experience takes visitors from downtown Beijing hotels to the majestic Great Wall, where they can hike for 2 hours along a less crowded section.
After, the group explores the Forbidden City, the former imperial palace with 650 years of history.
The tour includes a Chinese lunch, a visit to a jade gallery, and a traditional tea ceremony.
For $170 per person, the experience includes round-trip transportation, entrance fees, and an English-speaking guide.
Though not suitable for pregnant women, this small group tour provides an in-depth look at two of Beijing’s most significant historical landmarks.
Read our full review: Small Group Tour With Beijing Great Wall And Forbidden City Review
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Beijing Private Day Tour of Forbidden City and Great Wall at Mutianyu
For those with limited time in Beijing, this private day tour offers an opportunity to explore three of the city’s most iconic historical landmarks – Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Great Wall at Mutianyu.
With a professional guide, travelers will enjoy private transportation, skip-the-line access, and round-trip cable car or toboggan ride at the Great Wall. The tour includes all entrance fees, bottled water, and hotel pickup and drop-off.
While lunch isn’t included, there are food options available.
Travelers have highly rated this tour for its knowledgeable guides, comfortable pacing, and ability to see major sights in a single day. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a comprehensive Beijing experience.
Read our full review: Beijing Private Day Tour of Forbidden City and Great Wall at Mutianyu Review
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Beijing: Forbidden City & Tiananmen Square Optional Tours
Alongside Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City stands as one of Beijing’s premier historical landmarks.
Visitors can explore these iconic sites on a guided tour that offers several convenient options. The tour includes 1-2 hours at each location, with opportunities to visit additional sights like the Temple of Heaven or Summer Palace.
Travelers can choose from private or group tours, with hotel pickup available. Guests will bypass queues through a special entrance, ensuring a seamless experience.
The tour is competitively priced, with up to 10% savings, and offers free cancellation. Feedback highlights knowledgeable guides and memorable experiences, making this an ideal way to discover Beijing’s rich history and culture.
Read our full review: Beijing: Forbidden City & Tiananmen Square Optional Tours Review
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Beijing Private 2-Day Tour With Forbidden City and Great Wall
This private 2-day tour takes travelers on an immersive exploration of Beijing’s most iconic landmarks – the Forbidden City and the Great Wall.
With a private, knowledgeable guide, travelers enjoy hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and flexibility to tailor the itinerary to their interests.
The tour includes round-trip cable car or chairlift, a thrilling toboggan ride, and a delicious lunch.
Travelers can choose from Spanish, French, German, or Italian language guides with advance booking.
This highly-rated tour offers excellent value, free cancellation, and commitment to quality across various cities in China.
Read our full review: Beijing Private 2-Day Tour With Forbidden City and Great Wall Review
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Private City Tour Of Beijing Including Entrance Ticket
Travelers seeking a comprehensive exploration of Beijing’s renowned landmarks can embark on this private city tour. Priced from $209 per person, the 8-hour excursion visits iconic sites like the Summer Palace, Forbidden City, and Temple of Heaven.
Lunch, entrance fees, and a silk museum stop are included. Guests can also experience traditional activities like Tai Chi and a Chinese tea ceremony.
While the Forbidden City is closed on Mondays, an alternative visit to Jingshan Park is offered. To ensure availability, it’s recommended to book at least 8 days in advance.
With a 5/5 rating based on customer feedback, this tour provides an immersive glimpse into Beijing’s rich history and culture.
Read our full review: Private City Tour Of Beijing Including Entrance Ticket Review
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Beijing Essential Full-Day Tour Including Great Wall at Badaling, Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square
Tourists can embark on this comprehensive full-day tour to explore Beijing’s iconic landmarks, including the Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, and the renowned Great Wall at Badaling.
The tour, rated 4.2 out of 5 from 315 reviews, offers an immersive cultural experience for €95.86 per person. Highlights include a visit to the Tiananmen Square, a guided exploration of the Forbidden City’s dynastic history, and a cable car ride at the Great Wall.
The tour also includes a Chinese-style lunch and an optional stop at a jade factory. While guests generally praise the professionalism and knowledge of the guides, some suggest more in-depth historical explanations and less shopping time.
Read our full review: Beijing Essential Full-Day Tour Including Great Wall at Badaling, Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square Review
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Small-Group Beijing City Highlights Tour With Lunch
Embarking on a comprehensive 9-hour Small-Group Beijing City Highlights Tour, travelers can enjoy the city’s imperial grandeur and cultural heritage.
This tour, priced at €161.74 per person, includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, a traditional Chinese lunch, and a guided experience led by an English-fluent expert.
Highlights include exploring the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, and the Summer Palace, with optional visits to a Chinese medicine center and pearl factory.
The tour also features a tea ceremony, allowing participants to further appreciate Chinese culture.
Guests can expect thoughtful organization, comfortable transportation, and knowledgeable service, based on the tour’s 4.5/5 overall rating from 33 reviews.
Read our full review: Small-Group Beijing City Highlights Tour With Lunch Review
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Private Beijing City and Mutianyu Great Wall Tour
For those seeking a comprehensive Beijing experience that includes the renowned Mutianyu Great Wall, this private tour provides an immersive and personalized exploration.
Rated 5 stars by 81 travelers, the tour includes a private guide, air-conditioned transportation, and lunch at a local restaurant.
Pickup is available from downtown hotels, with an extra fee for locations outside the city center. Participants should be prepared for comfortable walking, as the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
With a 100% traveler recommendation, this private tour is an excellent choice for those wanting to experience the highlights of Beijing and the iconic Mutianyu Great Wall.
Read our full review: Private Beijing City and Mutianyu Great Wall Tour Review
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Beijing: Forbidden City Upgraded Tour & Royal Treasure House
Visitors can enjoy the grandeur of Beijing’s Forbidden City with the Upgraded Tour and Royal Treasure House experience.
Prices start from $4.29 per person, with options ranging from 2 to 8 hours. Guided tours take visitors to key locations, including the Meridian Gate, imperial palaces, and the Imperial Garden, providing historical insights.
Reservations must be made at least 7 days in advance, and special offers are available daily.
Flexible booking and cancellation policies, as well as wheelchair accessibility and headsets for larger groups, make this tour a convenient and comprehensive way to explore the Forbidden City.
With an overall rating of 4.6/5 based on 585 reviews, this tour offers excellent value for money.
Read our full review: Beijing: Forbidden City Upgraded Tour & Royal Treasure House Review
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Beijing Layover Mutianyu Great Wall & Forbidden City Private Tour
Travelers seeking to make the most of a Beijing layover can enjoy the grandeur of the Mutianyu Great Wall and the historic Forbidden City with this private tour.
Priced from $90 per person, the tour includes private transportation, hotel/airport pickup, bottled water, and an English-speaking driver. Participants can enjoy the convenience of pre-purchased tickets, cable car, and shuttle bus access.
With a perfect 5.0 rating and 100% traveler recommendations, this tour is a Badge of Excellence. Reviewers praise its efficiency, personalization, and flexibility, as well as the driver’s ability to avoid unnecessary stops.
Travelers can also easily book additional attractions like the Forbidden City.
Read our full review: Beijing Layover Mutianyu Great Wall & Forbidden City Private Tour Review
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Private Day Tour to Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City&Hutong
This private day tour provides an immersive exploration of Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the historic Hutong alleys of Beijing.
Guests can save up to 10% on the tour, which lasts 5-6 hours and includes an English-speaking guide, private transportation, and entrance fees.
Highlights include visiting Tiananmen Square’s iconic sites, discovering the Forbidden City’s key courtyards and halls, and experiencing the Hutong alleys through a rickshaw ride, museum visit, or walking tour.
Travelers have praised the guides’ professionalism and the tour’s personalized suggestions.
With convenient hotel pickup, free cancellation, and a pay later option, this tour is an excellent way to discover Beijing’s top attractions.
Read our full review: Private Day Tour to Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City&Hutong Review
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Private 4-Hour In Depth Walking Tour to the Forbidden City
Guests embark on a comprehensive 4-hour walking tour of the iconic Forbidden City, exploring its vast courtyards, temples, and imperial halls in-depth.
The private tour is highly rated, with 99% of travelers recommending it. Led by knowledgeable, multilingual guides, the experience provides insightful historical context and personalized service, tailoring the tour to guests’ interests.
With wheelchair and stroller accessibility, the tour is suitable for most fitness levels, though a moderate level is required.
While meals and gratuity aren’t included, transportation to the Forbidden City and admission tickets are.
Advance booking is advised to secure Forbidden City access, with flexible cancellation and rescheduling policies.
Read our full review: Private 4-Hour In Depth Walking Tour to the Forbidden City Review
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Beijing: Tiananmen Night Ride & Photography City Ride Tour
At night, visitors can embark on an exhilarating Tiananmen Night Ride & Photography City Ride Tour, offering a unique perspective of Beijing’s iconic landmarks.
This 1-2 hour tour takes participants on an electric scooter ride through the bustling streets, stopping at Tiananmen Square and other key sites for guided photography.
With skip-the-line access and pickup available, the tour provides a hassle-free experience to capture the illuminated architecture and lively atmosphere of Beijing after dark.
Priced from $66.00, or $59.40 per person, this immersive experience combines sightseeing, photography, and adventure for an unforgettable evening in China’s capital.
Read our full review: Beijing: Tiananmen Night Ride & Photography City Ride Tour Review
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Small Group Full-Day Tour of Beijing City, No Shopping
A Small Group Full-Day Tour of Beijing City, No Shopping offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the capital’s top landmarks while avoiding the hassle of shopping stops or tea ceremonies.
This highly-rated tour boasts a 5-star rating from 87 reviews and 100% traveler recommendation. Highlights include visits to the Temple of Heaven, Hutong, and Summer Palace, as well as a rickshaw ride through the Hutong alleys.
The tour includes all entrance fees and complimentary bottled water, while meals and gratuities aren’t included. With a small group size of about 9 guests, the tour provides a personalized experience.
Booking in advance is recommended, especially for the Forbidden City. This tour is an efficient and hassle-free way to discover Beijing’s iconic sights.
Read our full review: Small Group Full-Day Tour of Beijing City, No Shopping Review
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Beijing: Temple of Heaven and Forbidden City Private Tour
Travelers can explore Beijing’s two UNESCO-listed landmarks, the Temple of Heaven and the Forbidden City, on this private day tour. Priced from €103.51 per person, the 6-8 hour experience includes hotel pickup, admission tickets, and a local English-speaking guide.
Explore the architectural highlights of the Temple of Heaven, then enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant. Next, visit Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, learning about their history and significance.
The private tour allows for customization based on personal interests. With a 4.9/5 rating from past travelers, this tour offers excellent value and an immersive experience of Beijing’s top attractions.
Read our full review: Beijing: Temple of Heaven and Forbidden City Private Tour Review
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Private Day to T-Square, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace Tour
For a comprehensive exploration of Beijing’s most iconic landmarks, this private day tour takes travelers on a captivating journey through the city’s storied past.
Recommended by 100% of travelers, the tour includes visits to T-Square, the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, and the Summer Palace.
With a professional, multilingual guide and private transportation, guests enjoy seamless access to these renowned sites.
Highlights include a Peking roast duck lunch and a visit to the Summer Palace’s Fragrance Pagoda.
Flexible booking and cancellation policies, as well as hotel pickup and drop-off, ensure a hassle-free experience.
At $177 per person, this tour offers exceptional value for a day of unparalleled culture.
Read our full review: Private Day to T-Square, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace Tour Review
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Beijing: Private Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square Tour
Offering a comprehensive exploration of Beijing’s renowned landmarks, the Private Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square Tour provides a captivating glimpse into China’s storied past.
Priced from $31.21 per person, this 4-hour private experience grants intimate access to the world’s largest city center square and the awe-inspiring Forbidden City.
With flexible group sizes, multiple language options, and hotel pick-up and drop-off, the tour ensures a hassle-free adventure.
Highlights include exploring Tiananmen Square, uncovering the Forbidden City’s rich history, and benefiting from a knowledgeable guide’s insights.
Accessible to wheelchair users, this tour is a must for those seeking an immersive introduction to Beijing’s iconic sights.
Read our full review: Beijing: Private Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square Tour Review
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Great Wall & Forbidden City Layover Small Group Tour (9AM-5PM)
With an early arrival and a late departure, visitors can maximize their Beijing layover by joining the Great Wall & Forbidden City Layover Small Group Tour.
This 9-hour tour takes participants to two of Beijing’s top attractions – the iconic Great Wall and the Forbidden City. The tour includes a licensed English-speaking guide, transportation, bottled water, admission tickets, and insurance.
Rated 5.0 stars with 94 reviews, the tour has a maximum of 15 participants. Wheelchair and stroller access are available.
Passengers from select countries can benefit from the 144-hour visa-free transit policy. The tour starts at 9 AM and ends at the same meeting point, with transfer options to other terminals.
Read our full review: Great Wall & Forbidden City Layover Small Group Tour (9AM-5PM) Review
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Private Forbidden City&Tiananmen Square&Great Wall Day Tour
The Private Forbidden City&Tiananmen Square&Great Wall Day Tour provides visitors an opportunity to experience three of Beijing’s iconic landmarks in a single comprehensive excursion.
This 9-hour tour offers a savings of up to 20% and features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Highlights include exploring the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and hiking the Great Wall at Mutianyu, with options for cable car, chairlift, or slide down.
The tour includes an English-speaking guide, air-conditioned transportation, and entrance tickets, making it a convenient and cost-effective way to discover Beijing’s most renowned attractions.
Customer reviews praise the tour’s organization, informative guide, and overall experience.
Read our full review: Private Forbidden City&Tiananmen Square&Great Wall Day Tour Review
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Forbidden City and Royal Treasure Museum Half Day Tour
This half-day tour allows visitors to explore the grandeur of the Forbidden City and enjoy the remarkable Royal Treasure Museum.
Located in China’s capital, Beijing, the tour boasts a 97% recommendation rate from 373 reviews. At €34.86 per person, the tour accommodates up to 30 travelers and includes English-speaking guides, headsets, and tips.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour is near public transportation. Visitors must confirm their booking details in advance, and Chinese citizens must book at least 7 days prior.
Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and insightful commentary, though some note long queues and a rushed pace.
Read our full review: Forbidden City and Royal Treasure Museum Half Day Tour Review
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Recap
Beijing offers a range of captivating city tours that showcase its iconic landmarks, including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and the Great Wall. These tours cater to various interests and time constraints, allowing visitors to explore the city’s rich history and culture efficiently. Whether you prefer a private, small-group, or layover tour, there’s an option to suit your needs and ensure an unforgettable Beijing experience.