Beijing is a city that truly rewards those who spend a few days exploring. From the awe-inspiring Forbidden City to the ancient ramparts of the Great Wall, this sprawling metropolis offers enough to fill a long weekend with memorable experiences. What makes these 3-day tours stand out? We love how they combine iconic sights with authentic local flavor—like rickshaw rides through traditional hutongs or a Peking Duck dinner—and include practical touches such as private guides and all-inclusive pricing. If you’re after a hassle-free way to see the highlights, these tours deliver, with some offering special upgrades like acrobatic shows or toboggan rides down the wall.
For first-timers, the appeal is obvious: you get comprehensive itineraries that hit the must-see sites, combined with insider tips and flexible options. For repeat visitors, some tours offer unique perspectives and hidden spots, like lesser-known sections of the Great Wall or visits to traditional courtyard homes. Whether you prefer a private, customizable experience or a well-organized group adventure, Beijing’s 3-day tours are designed to make your trip smooth, enriching, and unforgettable.
Quick Overview
In this guide, you’ll find a curated list of the best 3-day tours in Beijing, ranging from private, all-inclusive experiences to specialized cultural trips. Highlights include visits to Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Great Wall at Mutianyu, along with options for hotels transfers, local cuisine, and cultural shows. Some tours are perfect for first-time visitors wanting a rundown (see the All-Inclusive 3-Day Tour), while others cater to travelers seeking more personalized, flexible itineraries (check out the Private Beijing Tour with Airport Transfer). Below, we detail each of these top options to help you decide which best fits your style and interests.
1. Beijing: All Inclusive 3-Day Top Highlights Private Tour
This top-rated private tour is perfect for first-timers who want to see all the major highlights with minimal fuss. For $560, you get entrance fees, lunches, and private vehicle transfers included. The itinerary covers Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace, and the Great Wall of China at Mutianyu—one of the best-preserved sections. You can upgrade to include a toboggan ride down the Great Wall or catch a live acrobatic show—a fun way to end your day. Guests praise the guides’ knowledge and energy, with one reviewer noting how their guide helped them fall in love with China. The rickshaw ride through Beijing’s traditional hutongs offers a glimpse into local life. This tour suits travelers wanting a comprehensive, hassle-free experience with everything sorted ahead of time.
Bottom line: Excellent value for first-time visitors who want a full Beijing experience, with optional upgrades to make it even more memorable.
2. 3-Day Private Beijing Tour with Airport Transfer
Priced at $559, this tour combines convenience with personalized attention. Your guide will meet you at the airport, then guide you through Beijing’s highlights, including the Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and the Summer Palace. Unique to this tour is the chance to explore Beijing’s hutongs—the narrow alleyways that reveal the city’s traditional side—via rickshaw. The flexibility of the private guide means you can tailor your days, perhaps with a visit to the National Stadium (Bird’s Nest) or a stroll through local neighborhoods. Reviews highlight the professionalism of guides and the smooth logistics, including hotel transfers and airport pickups. This option is ideal if you want to maximize sightseeing with minimal planning and enjoy a relaxed pace.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers arriving in Beijing who want a relaxed, personalized introduction to the city’s top sights.
3. 3-Day Private Tour of Incredible Beijing Highlights
For around $628, this private tour promises a deep dive into Beijing’s most famous sites, like the Great Wall at Mutianyu, Summer Palace, and Forbidden City. The itinerary is flexible, allowing you to choose which sights to focus on, with a private guide ensuring personalized attention. Guests rave about guides who bring history alive, and the ease of private transportation means you never feel rushed. The tour also includes visits to Ming Tombs and the Hutongs, adding local flavor to the experience. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a rich, tailored experience without the stress of organizing every detail. The reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the seamless logistics.
Bottom line: Excellent for those wanting a customizable, in-depth Beijing experience with expert guiding.
4. From Beijing: 3-Day UNESCO World Heritage Sites Private Tour
At $449, this tour emphasizes Beijing’s UNESCO sites, including the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, and the Great Wall. It offers a flexible itinerary, with options for self-paced hiking and a toboggan ride, making it perfect for active travelers. Guests highlight the local-style lunch and the chance to see Panda House, adding a wildlife touch to the cultural experience. The tour focuses on culture, history, and local life, blending sightseeing with authentic culinary experiences. It’s ideal if you want a balanced mix of must-see sites and leisure, especially if you want the option to customize based on your interests.
Bottom line: Best for travelers keen on UNESCO sites, with flexibility for active exploration and local flavor.
5. 3-Day Private Tour of Beijing UNESCO World Heritage Sites with Peking Duck+Show
This $598 tour combines history, culture, and cuisine in a personalized three-day experience. It visits Mutianyu for the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Summer Palace, and includes a Peking Duck dinner and a local show—a fantastic way to enjoy Beijing’s culinary and entertainment options. Guests love the flexibility to customize the itinerary, and reviews mention knowledgeable guides who make history stories come alive. The tour also includes city transportation and meals, making logistics smooth. It’s suited for travelers who want a well-rounded, immersive experience with a focus on food and cultural shows.
Bottom line: Great for food lovers and culture seekers who want a curated, all-in-one Beijing experience.
6. Private Beijing 3-Day Tour
Costing $630, this tour emphasizes customization—you can pick from ten different destinations, such as Ming Tombs or Beijing Zoo. It includes VIP perks like front-door hotel pickup and a Chinese lunch each day. Highlights include riding a dragon boat at Summer Palace and exploring Hutongs by rickshaw. Guests praise the flexibility and the ability to tailor the experience to personal interests. It’s perfect if you have specific sights or activities in mind, or want to combine traditional attractions with some offbeat options. The guide’s knowledge and the private transportation offer maximum comfort and convenience.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers with particular interests or looking for a very personalized Beijing trip.
7. 3-Day Private Beijing Tour with Forbidden City, Great Wall, Hutong and Lunch
At $518, this tour packs in classic sights and cultural experiences. It features visits to Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, Great Wall at Mutianyu, and the Hutongs, including a dragon boat ride at the Summer Palace. The itinerary is designed for a relaxed pace, with lunch included and the option to upgrade for more activities. Reviewers emphasize how guides personalize the experience and how smooth the logistics are, making it a favorite for first-time visitors. The mix of historic sites and local neighborhoods makes this tour a well-rounded choice.
Bottom line: A solid pick for those seeking a comprehensive, easy-to-join private tour with culture.
8. 3-Day Beijing Hightlight Tour with Optional Peking Duck & Show
For $560, this tour offers a rundown with optional upgrades like Peking Duck dinner and Kungfu or acrobatic shows. It hits Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Great Wall at Mutianyu, and Ming Tombs. Guests praise the flexible itinerary and knowledgeable guides that ensure you see the main sights without rushing. This tour is ideal if you want a balanced experience, including cultural shows and local dining, and prefer a private guide to customize your day.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting a full Beijing experience with added cultural entertainment.
9. 3-Day Private Beijing Sightseeing Tour with Peking Duck, Hot Pot plus Optional Show
At $512, this tour offers a detailed, organized itinerary with hotels transfers, meals, and all entrance fees included. It covers Ming Tombs, Mutianyu, and Tiananmen Square, with a focus on culinary experiences like Peking Duck dinner and hot pot. Reviewers love guides who make the history engaging and the seamless logistics. It’s well-suited for travelers who want an all-in-one, hassle-free experience, with a slight emphasis on food and local flavors.
Bottom line: Ideal for foodies and those who prefer everything planned and included.
10. All-Inclusive 3-Day Private Beijing Highlights Tour
At $820, this ultra-exclusive tour offers VIP access, personalized service, and a comprehensive, luxury experience. It features imperial sites, rickshaw rides, and hands-on activities in courtyard homes. Guests appreciate the attention to detail, making it suitable for travelers seeking a luxury, curated experience. Although on the pricier side, the included VIP perks and bespoke itinerary justify the cost for those who want the best.
Bottom line: Best for travelers wanting a premium, fully personalized Beijing experience.
How to Choose Your Perfect Beijing 3-Day Tour
When selecting your ideal tour, consider your budget, interests, and travel style. If you want everything sorted with minimal planning, the All Inclusive 3-Day Tour (see details) is great. For more flexibility and personal touch, the Private Tours (like this one) allow you to customize your experience. If culinary experiences or cultural shows are priorities, options like the UNESCO Tour (check it out) or the Peking Duck Tour (see here) might be best.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons (spring and autumn), as these tours fill quickly. Think about your fitness level—some tours include hikes on the Great Wall or rickshaw rides, so choose accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Beijing’s mix of ancient splendor and modern vibrancy makes it a perfect destination for a well-planned 3-day tour. Whether you opt for a comprehensive private experience like the All Inclusive 3-Day Tour or a more customizable adventure like the Private Beijing Tour with Airport Transfer, there’s something to suit every travel style. For first-timers, a guided tour ensures you miss nothing while enjoying insider tips; for seasoned travelers, the flexible options allow you to focus on your areas of interest.
No matter which tour you pick, remember to book early—these popular options tend to sell out, especially during peak seasons. With the right plan, your three days in Beijing can be packed with both unforgettable sights and authentic local experiences.