For the best experience in Pingyao, private tours pack the most value. The must-do is the 2-day comprehensive tour hitting the spectacular Wang Family Compound and serene Shuanglin Temple. Time-savvy travelers should grab the bullet train tour from Beijing – it’s efficient and covers all major sites. A walking food tour reveals authentic Shanxi flavors, while UNESCO old town tours showcase the city’s fascinating banking history and Ming-Dynasty architecture. Several highly-rated full-day options highlight cultural traditions and surrounding landscapes. Let’s explore our favorite tours of ancient Pingyao.
Key Points
- Comprehensive 2-day private tours offer in-depth exploration of Pingyao’s ancient town, Wang Family Compound, and Shuanglin Temple with an English-speaking guide.
- Pingyao Private Tour by Unique Beijing Tours includes entrance fees, lunch, hotel transfers, and visits to top attractions like Qiao Family Compound and Shuanglin Temple.
- Highly rated Old Town Highlights Day Tour provides an 8-hour walking experience showcasing Pingyao’s iconic landmarks, such as the old city walls and historic financial institutions.
- Bullet Train Tour from Beijing offers a 2-day itinerary with skip-the-line access to Tiananmen Square and in-depth exploration of Pingyao’s well-preserved architecture.
- Food Walking Tour allows travelers to immerse in Shanxi province’s local dining culture through tastings of 6 native snacks and beverages.
Private 2-Day Pingyao+Wang Family Compound+Shuanglin Temple Tour
Travelers seeking an immersive exploration of Pingyao’s rich heritage can embark on this private 2-day tour. The tour offers a comprehensive experience, covering the well-preserved ancient town of Pingyao, the expansive Wang Family Compound, and the stunning Shuanglin Temple.
With an English-speaking professional guide and a private vehicle, participants can expect personalized attention and a seamless experience. The tour includes pickup and drop-off at the Pingyaogucheng Station or hotel, as well as all entrance fees to the sights.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and the tour is accessible for strollers, though not for wheelchairs.
Priced from $200 per person, the tour provides excellent value. Cancelation is free up to 24 hours prior, and a “reserve now, pay later” option is available.
While gratuities, hotel rooms, and meals aren’t included, this private tour ensures an unparalleled opportunity to explore Pingyao’s captivating history and culture.
Read our full review: Private 2-Day Pingyao+Wang Family Compound+Shuanglin Temple Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
By Bullet Train From Beijing to Pingyao 2days Tour &Lunch
For those seeking to explore Pingyao’s historical charm beyond a day trip, the 2-day tour from Beijing by bullet train is an excellent option.
This comprehensive tour provides a seamless way to experience the ancient wonders of Pingyao, with a duration of 10 hours and pickup available.
Priced at £310.79 per person, the tour offers a well-rounded itinerary, including a visit to the Pingyao Ancient Town.
With a 4.6 rating, this activity promises a memorable journey through Pingyao’s well-preserved architecture and historical sites.
The tour’s flexibility is evident, as it can accommodate up to 6 people in a group, making it suitable for families or small parties.
Plus, the option to skip the line at Tiananmen Square in Beijing adds convenience to the overall experience.
Whether you’re seeking a deeper dive into Pingyao’s rich heritage or simply want to explore the city beyond a day trip, this 2-day tour by bullet train from Beijing is a highly recommended choice.
Read our full review: By Bullet Train From Beijing to Pingyao 2days Tour &Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Pingyao Food Walking Tour
Although visitors to Pingyao can explore the ancient city during the day, the Pingyao Food Walking Tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the local dining culture in the evening.
Led by an English-speaking guide, the tour includes tastings of 6 types of native Shanxi province snacks and delicacies, as well as a bottle of local beer and water per person. Vegetarian options are available, and the tour concludes with a glass of red or white wine.
With a maximum of 10 travelers per tour, the experience provides an intimate setting to learn about the historical and cultural context of the food and architecture.
While a moderate fitness level is required, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers.
Based on positive reviews, the Pingyao Food Walking Tour is an excellent way to complement a 2-3 day visit to the ancient city.
Read our full review: Pingyao Food Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Pingyao: Private Old Town Highlights Day Tour
Visitors seeking a rundown of Pingyao’s historical highlights can opt for the Private Old Town Highlights Day Tour. This 8-hour walking tour offers an in-depth exploration of the ancient city’s most iconic landmarks and cultural gems.
With a private guide, guests will wander through the well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, including the old city walls, the County Magistrate’s Office, and the Rishengchang Financial House.
The tour also includes a visit to the renowned Shuanglin Temple, known for its exquisite carved sculptures. Travelers can enjoy the city’s history, learning about its role as a center of finance and commerce during its heyday.
Rated 5 out of 5 stars by previous participants, this tour provides a seamless and enriching experience for those eager to uncover Pingyao’s treasures. Priced at £103.33 per group (up to 6 people), the Private Old Town Highlights Day Tour offers excellent value for a personalized exploration of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Read our full review: Pingyao: Private Old Town Highlights Day Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
1-Day Pingyao Ancient Town Sightseeing Walking Tour
The 1-Day Pingyao Ancient Town Sightseeing Walking Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Highlights include the city’s well-preserved Ming-Qing Street, the Temple of the City God, and the Ri Cheng Chang Exchange Shop, which provide insights into Pingyao’s rich history and cultural heritage.
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours and is conducted on foot, allowing participants to enjoy the ancient town’s charming alleys and historic architecture.
As a private tour, the pace can be tailored to individual preferences.
Pickup is available from any hotel within Pingyao’s ancient city, with a start time of 9:00 am.
The tour includes a private guide, lunch, and all necessary entrance tickets.
It’s suitable for most travelers, with infant seats, stroller, and wheelchair accessibility available.
However, it’s not recommended for those with serious medical conditions.
Priced from $113.12 per person, the tour offers excellent value and a 5-star rating based on a single review.
Read our full review: 1-Day Pingyao Ancient Town Sightseeing Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Pingyao Ancient City Full-Day Walking Tour
Immersing visitors in the rich history and well-preserved architecture of Pingyao, the Ancient City Full-Day Walking Tour offers an in-depth exploration of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
At just $12,900 per group of up to 6 participants, this 8-hour tour showcases the city’s notable landmarks, including the iconic Pingyao City Wall, the first exchange bank in China, and the historic Yamen government office.
Throughout the day, the knowledgeable English-speaking guide shares insights into Pingyao’s cultural significance, from the Confucian Temple to the traditional shops and houses that reflect ancient Chinese lifestyles.
Guests can also request specific areas of interest to customize their experience. With hotel pickup included and the flexibility of a free cancellation policy, this tour provides a comprehensive and convenient way to discover the wonders of Pingyao.
Rated 5/5 by previous participants, it’s an immersive journey into China’s past that shouldn’t be missed.
Read our full review: Pingyao Ancient City Full-Day Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Pingyao 2-Day Private Tour to Datong: Hanging Temple, Yungang Grottoes and More
Travelers seeking to explore the rich historical and cultural landmarks beyond Pingyao can embark on the captivating 2-Day Private Tour to Datong.
Operated by Unique Beijing Tours, this private excursion takes visitors to the renowned Hanging Temple and Yungang Grottoes. Accompanied by an English-speaking guide, the tour includes private transportation, entrance fees, bottled water, and two meals.
Pickup is provided from selected hotels, with the guide holding a name sign in the lobby. Priced from £434.30 per person, the tour can be tailored to group size.
Flexible booking options allow for free cancellation up to 3 days in advance and a reserve now, pay later option. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers, including infants who can sit on laps.
With the convenience of a private tour and the opportunity to experience Datong’s iconic attractions, this 2-day adventure is an excellent choice for those wanting to delve deeper into China’s history and culture.
Read our full review: Pingyao 2-Day Private Tour to Datong: Hanging Temple, Yungang Grottoes and More Review
Book now: Check availability
Mian Mountain Private Day Tour From Pingyao
For those seeking to venture beyond the historic town of Pingyao, the Mian Mountain Private Day Tour offers a captivating opportunity to explore the region’s ancient temples and breathtaking natural scenery.
This private tour takes visitors to the Yunfeng Temple and the 13-storey Temple of All-Embracing Heaven, offering a glimpse into the area’s rich spiritual heritage. The highlight of the tour is the Sky Bridge, which stands at an impressive 980 feet (300 meters) high, providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Guests can also enjoy a nature walk through the Shuitao Valley, taking in the serene beauty of the natural surroundings.
The tour includes transportation, entrance fees, and a hearty lunch at a mountainside restaurant. With a professional English-speaking guide, visitors can delve deeper into the cultural and historical significance of the sites.
This tour is suitable for moderately fit travelers, but those with certain medical conditions should take note of the tour’s limitations.
Read our full review: Mian Mountain Private Day Tour From Pingyao Review
Book now: Check availability
All Inclusive Pingyao Private Tour to Qiao Family Compound and Shuanglin Temple
Those seeking a comprehensive experience in Pingyao can embark on the All Inclusive Pingyao Private Tour, which takes visitors to the captivating Qiao Family Compound and the renowned Shuanglin Temple.
Operated by Unique Beijing Tours, this private tour offers an all-inclusive package, including entrance fees, lunch, hotel pickup and drop-off, and the services of a professional guide.
The tour begins with hotel pickup in Pingyao, followed by a visit to the Qiao Family Compound, a well-preserved historical site showcasing the architectural style and lifestyle of a wealthy Chinese family.
Next, the tour progresses to the Shuanglin Temple, a stunning Buddhist temple renowned for its intricate wood carvings and ancient murals.
With a price starting from $141.91 per person, the tour is accessible to most travelers, though it’s not wheelchair-friendly.
Infants must sit on laps, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts, providing flexibility for bookings.
Read our full review: All Inclusive Pingyao Private Tour to Qiao Family Compound and Shuanglin Temple Review
Book now: Check availability
Recap
Pingyao offers a range of tours to suit different interests and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a private multi-day tour, a food walking tour, or a day trip to nearby attractions, there are options to explore the city’s ancient history and culture. These tours provide a convenient and comprehensive way to experience the best of Pingyao and its surrounding areas.