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

Experience Beijing’s Imperial Palaces with Ease and Personal Touch

A full-day private tour exploring Beijing’s most iconic imperial sites—the UNESCO-listed Summer Palace and the Old Summer Palace—for $151.20 per person. With hotel pickup and drop-off included, this roughly 6-hour experience offers a thoughtful blend of history, stunning scenery, and authentic Chinese cuisine. Guided by knowledgeable locals, you’ll get personalized insights into China’s imperial past, while enjoying convenient transportation and a relaxed pace.

What we love about this experience are two key aspects: First, the personalized attention from your private guide means you’re not just another face in a crowded group. Second, the inclusion of lunch and entrance fees makes it a great value, removing the stress of extra costs and planning.

A possible consideration is the pace—while 6 hours is plenty to see the highlights, it does involve a fair amount of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want an in-depth, hassle-free introduction to Beijing’s imperial architecture and gardens, especially those who value expert guides and seeing these sites without the constraints of a large group.

Key Points

• Private and customizable experience tailored to your interests
• Visit two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Summer Palace and Old Summer Palace
• Includes a traditional Chinese lunch at a local restaurant
• Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off within Beijing’s 4th ring road
• Insightful guided commentary enhances understanding of imperial history
• Pass by Olympic landmarks like the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube on the return

Discovering Beijing’s Imperial Splendors: A Deep Dive

When you’re visiting Beijing, these two palaces tell stories of China’s imperial past—one as a fully functioning summer retreat, the other as a symbol of bygone grandeur, now in ruins but still profoundly evocative. This tour balances sightseeing with relaxed comfort, making it suitable whether you’re a history buff or simply eager to see the best of Beijing’s imperial landscape without feeling rushed.

What to Expect from the Tour

Your day starts with a private pickup from your hotel—an efficient way to avoid the hassle of navigating Beijing’s traffic and public transport. Your guide, experienced and friendly, will brief you briefly on the day ahead before whisking you off in a private vehicle.

The Summer Palace (Yiheyuan) is the first stop. Spanning over 290 hectares, it’s a sprawling showcase of classical Chinese garden design. You’ll explore lush gardens, serene lakes, and temples, with highlights like the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity, which served as the emperor’s court during summer months, and the Long Corridor, famous for its 14,000 painted scenes. We loved how our guide explained the stories behind these paintings, which offer a window into traditional Chinese folklore and history.

The Qingyan Stone Boat, built in 1755, is a highlight. Standing at the edge of Kunming Lake, it’s a striking marble structure symbolizing imperial leisure. If you’re feeling a bit more relaxed, you can opt for a boat ride on the lake, which offers fabulous views of the palace and surrounding gardens—a great way to see the place from a different perspective.

Next, the visit to the Old Summer Palace (Yuanmingyuan) provides a stark contrast. Once an expansive complex of palaces, gardens, and lakes, it was devastated during the Second Opium War. Our guide’s storytelling about its destruction and the emperors’ lives there made the ruins come alive. Even today, the remnants evoke nostalgia and national pride, making it a meaningful visit.

All along, your guide’s insights make history accessible and engaging. As one reviewer put it, “There was never a dull moment even after spending 12 hours with him,” highlighting how a good guide can turn a busy day into a memorable journey.

The Cuisine and Convenience

Midway, you’ll enjoy a traditional Chinese lunch at a local restaurant. The tour covers this, so you don’t need to worry about searching for good eats—just relax and enjoy authentic flavors that reflect the local culinary culture.

On the way back, you’ll pass by the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube, iconic stadiums from the 2008 Olympics. While you won’t stop inside, seeing these architectural marvels from the outside adds context to China’s modern achievements alongside its imperial past.

The Practicalities

Transport is via private vehicle, making the day smooth and comfortable. The tour is designed for flexibility, with most entrance fees included, so you won’t be surprised by additional costs. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive experience without the hassle of planning each visit separately.

The tour operates in all weather, so dress appropriately—comfortable shoes are essential given the amount of walking involved. The experience is private, so your guide can adapt the pacing to your interests.

Why This Tour Works Well

Based on reviews, guides like Jack make the difference—his humor and photographic skills were specifically praised. Travelers also appreciate the opportunity to see key sites without feeling rushed, thanks to the well-organized itinerary and included logistics.

For those who want an in-depth look at Beijing’s imperial architecture and gardens, combined with a taste of local life and cuisine, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially suitable for history-minded travelers who prefer a personalized approach over crowded group tours.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This private, all-inclusive tour hits the sweet spot between comfort and authenticity. The personal guide ensures you understand the significance of each site, while the mix of outdoor gardens, ruins, and modern landmarks keeps the day dynamic.

If you’re after a hassle-free way to see Beijing’s imperial treasures with the added benefit of local insights and a delicious meal, this tour delivers on those fronts. It’s particularly good for travelers who value expert guidance and a relaxed pace—plus, the value is hard to beat when you consider the included entrance fees and lunch.

However, if you have mobility issues or prefer a very relaxed, slow-paced visit, be aware of the walking involved. Also, if your schedule is tight and you prefer to see fewer sites, this might be a longer commitment than you need.

In all, this experience offers a well-rounded, informative, and enjoyable way to connect with Beijing’s imperial past while staying comfortable and well-fed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included within Beijing’s 4th ring road, making it very convenient.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, including transport, sightseeing, and lunch.

Are entrance fees included?
Most entrance fees are included, simplifying the experience. Additional museum entries inside the gardens are extra.

Can the tour be customized?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide can tailor the experience to your interests, within the scheduled itinerary.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended because of the amount of exploring involved.

Is it suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, the tour involves walking and outdoor time, so consider the age and stamina of your children.

What about weather?
The tour operates in all weather conditions—be prepared for sun or rain, depending on the forecast.

How many people typically go on this tour?
It’s private, so only your group participates—great for personalized attention.

What makes this tour a good value?
Combining hotel pickup, guided insights, entrance fees, and lunch, it offers a comprehensive experience at a competitive price.

This private Beijing tour to the Summer Palace and Old Summer Palace is a perfect choice for travelers eager to see the imperial side of China with ease, comfort, and expert guidance. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just want to tick off two of Beijing’s most famous sites without the stress of independent planning, it’s a memorable, enriching way to spend a day.