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The 10 Best Lunch Experiences in Beijing
Beijing might be famous for its history and culture, but its lunch options are equally impressive—especially when you choose a tour that combines sightseeing with authentic cuisine. Whether you’re after a quick bite with a view or a full-day immersion, the city offers something for every palate. We love tours like the Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Small-Group Tour with Lunch, which balances breathtaking scenery with a tasty meal, and the Private Day Trip to Longqing Gorge and Dingling at the Ming Tombs for a more exclusive experience. Get ready to see Beijing in a whole new way, with plenty of delicious bites along the way.
Quick Overview
Our list features guided tours and private trips that showcase Beijing’s top sights while including a memorable lunch. From exploring the Great Wall at Mutianyu to visiting the Summer Palace and the Forbidden City, each experience offers a unique combination of sightseeing, culture, and local cuisine. Expect options like small-group adventures with personalized attention, private day trips for a tailored experience, and multi-day tours for the full Beijing immersion. Whether you're on a budget or seeking luxury, there’s something here for everyone.
1. Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Small-Group Tour with Lunch
This top-rated 9-hour tour combines two of Beijing’s most iconic sights—the Summer Palace and the Mutianyu Great Wall—without the hassle of shopping stops. The tour starts with a pickup from a centrally located Beijing meeting point, ensuring a smooth start. The guide is focused solely on sightseeing, with personalized attention in a small group, which is great for those who dislike feeling lost in a crowd.
At the Summer Palace, you’ll stroll through imperial gardens and pavilions, gaining insight into China’s royal past. Later, at Mutianyu, hike along restored sections of the Wall or take a chairlift and toboggan for extra fun—an option at your own expense. Lunch is included, featuring authentic Chinese dishes, and the day ends with a comfortable transfer back.
Guests love the no-shops policy and the friendly guidance, with 5-star reviews highlighting the knowledgeable guide and the stunning scenery. Perfect for travelers who want an efficient, engaging day without the crowds.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a comprehensive, no-fuss experience of Beijing’s top attractions with a good-value lunch.
2. Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Private Day Trip with Lunch
For around $218, this private full-day tour offers a personalized experience of two UNESCO sites—the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall and the Summer Palace. Your private guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel, allowing you to customize your day to match your pace and interests.
Explore the restored watchtowers, take a cable car or chair lift to the Wall, and enjoy a delicious Chinese lunch (vegetarian options available). Afterward, walk through the Summer Palace’s elegant gardens, temples, and lakes, learning about imperial history from your guide. The tour includes all entrance fees and hotel pickup/drop-off, making logistics hassle-free.
Reviews praise the flexibility and tailored service, with guests mentioning their guide’s extensive knowledge and friendliness. This tour suits first-time visitors or those wanting an intimate, stress-free visit.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers craving a private, flexible experience with all logistics handled, especially if comfort and customization matter.
3. Small-Group Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Tour with Lunch
At just $144, this small-group tour includes visits to the Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace along with lunch. The tour features hotel pickup, transportation by air-conditioned minivan, and the flexibility to choose the cable car or chair lift for the Wall. The toboggan ride down adds a layer of excitement.
Guests note the well-organized itinerary and the knowledgeable guide, who helps you navigate the Wall and the Palace’s gardens. The included Chinese lunch offers a chance to sample authentic dishes amid scenic surroundings. The tour is designed to cater to varying walking abilities, with options to hike or relax and take photos.
Guests describe this as a “well-organized and amazing experience,” with flexible options making it suitable for families or first-timers. It’s great value, especially considering the inclusion of lunch and transport.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a balanced, small-group experience with a relaxed pace and good food.
4. Small Group Mutianyu Great Wall and Ming Tombs Tour with Cable Car and Lunch
This 8-hour tour combines the Mutianyu Great Wall with a visit to the Ming Tombs, offering a full immersion into China’s imperial past. Starting with hotel pickup, your guide will take you to the restored Wall—ride the cable car or ski lift up, then enjoy a toboggan ride down for some added thrill. The tour then moves on to the Ming Tombs, where you’ll explore the underground palace of Emperor Dingling and learn about the Ming Dynasty.
Lunch is included, featuring local Chinese dishes, and the tour concludes with a drop-off at your hotel. Reviews highlight the personalized experience and knowledgeable guides, making this a top choice for history lovers.
Guests like that they get to see two major sites without feeling rushed, with many appreciating the cable car and toboggan rides. It’s suited for those interested in architecture and history.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded tour for history buffs wanting to combine two UNESCO sites comfortably with included lunch.
5. Great Wall of China at Mutianyu Full-Day Tour Including Lunch from Beijing
For just $79, this full-day guided trip focuses on the less-crowded Mutianyu section, with an authentic Chinese lunch included. The tour emphasizes independent exploration of the Wall, with options to take the cable car or hike along the parapets. The bus ride includes photo stops at the Olympic Bird’s Nest and Water Cube, adding a bit of Beijing’s modern architecture to your day.
Guests praise the value for money and the relaxed yet comprehensive itinerary. The guide’s insights help deepen your understanding of the Wall’s history and architecture while allowing ample time for personal discovery.
Guests say the experience is “totally amazing,” especially the scenic views and the opportunity to explore at your own pace.
Bottom Line: Excellent for budget-conscious travelers who value independence with guided insights and local cuisine.
6. Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven In-depth Tour with Lunch
At $167, this private 8-hour tour covers Beijing’s most iconic landmarks—Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, and Temple of Heaven—with an included Peking Duck lunch. The private guide ensures a personalized, in-depth experience, allowing you to explore these historic sites at your own pace.
Guests highlight the expert guidance and the opportunity to see hidden corners of the Forbidden City. The included lunch gives you a taste of Beijing’s culinary tradition, rounding out the cultural experience.
Guests note that this is perfect for travelers wanting a detailed understanding of Beijing’s history with the comfort of door-to-door service.
Bottom Line: Best for history lovers eager for a comprehensive, private experience with authentic cuisine.
7. Panda House, Temple of Heaven, Lama Temple, Summer Palace & Lunch
For $88, this 7-8 hour tour offers a fun mix of wildlife, religious sites, and royal gardens. It begins with a visit to Panda House, where you’ll see the adorable bears. Then, explore the Summer Palace’s gardens and lakes, followed by the Lama Temple, home to the world’s largest wooden Buddha.
Lunch is included, with a focus on local Chinese cuisine. The small group is perfect for families or those wanting a more relaxed pace, and reviews mention the friendly guide and a good balance of activities.
Guests appreciate having a personalized experience and the opportunity to see a variety of sights in one day.
Bottom Line: Great for families or travelers wanting a diverse yet manageable day exploring Beijing’s cultural and natural highlights.
8. Private Day Tour to Longqing Gorge and Dingling at the Ming Tombs with Lunch and Boat Ride
This 9-hour private trip takes you from the Ming Tombs to the scenic Longqing Gorge, with a boat cruise through its stunning blue-green waters. The tour starts with hotel pickup, then visits the underground Dingling Mausoleum, with a guide explaining imperial secrets.
After a traditional Chinese lunch, you’ll cruise along the gorge, soaking in its impressive cliffs and lakes. The personalized service and unique natural scenery make this a favorite among travelers seeking both history and nature.
Reviews mention the friendly guide and the beautiful scenery that makes this tour special. It’s suitable for active travelers who enjoy a mix of cultural and outdoor experiences.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a more exclusive, scenic experience with cultural insights.
9. Mutianyu VIP Pass Tour with Lunch Overlooking the Wall
This 7-hour tour offers a VIP experience at the Mutianyu section, with early access to beat crowds. You’ll take a private guide and ride the chairlift up, then enjoy a luxurious lunch overlooking the Wall, often rated as one of the best views in Beijing.
Guests praise the quiet, uncrowded setting and the personalized attention. The toodown ride on the toboggan is included, and the tour is perfect for travelers seeking comfort and exclusivity.
Guests rave about the small group size and the scenic lunch that enhances the experience. Best suited for travelers wanting a quieter, more refined visit.
Bottom Line: For those seeking an exclusive, less crowded, and scenic day at the Great Wall with a gourmet lunch.
10. 3-Day Private Beijing Tour with Forbidden City, Great Wall, Hutong and Lunch
If you have several days, this tailored 3-day tour covers all the essentials: Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Great Wall, and Hutongs. It includes lunch each day, private transportation, and special experiences like a dragon boat ride at the Summer Palace.
Guests mention the flexibility and in-depth exploration that makes this perfect for first-time visitors who want to go beyond the basics. The comprehensive itinerary is great for travelers wanting a deep dive into Beijing’s culture, history, and daily life.
Guests say it’s a worthwhile investment if you want to see everything without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a thorough, private exploration of Beijing at a relaxed pace.
How to Choose the Best Lunch Experience in Beijing
When deciding among these tours, consider your budget—some, like the Mutianyu VIP Pass, offer exclusive perks, while others provide excellent value for money. Think about your interests: history buffs may prefer the Ming Tombs and Great Wall, while families might enjoy the Panda and Summer Palace.
Time constraints matter—if you only have a day, the Small-Group Mutianyu and Summer Palace offers a solid full day, whereas the 3-Day Private Tour is for those wanting an in-depth experience.
Booking early is recommended during peak seasons (spring and autumn), as these tours fill quickly, especially the private and VIP options.
Final Thoughts
Beijing’s lunch experiences go beyond simple meals—they’re an integral part of exploring the city’s cultural and historical landscape. For a quick, scenic encounter, the Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Small-Group Tour with Lunch offers great value. For those seeking a personalized, leisurely experience, the Private Day Trip to Longqing Gorge provides a perfect blend of history and natural beauty. And if exclusivity is your goal, the VIP Mutianyu tour is hard to beat.
Whatever your preference, booking ahead ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable Beijing lunch experiences. Happy eating and exploring!