Kaifeng offers more than just a glimpse into China’s past — it’s a city filled with stories, centuries-old architecture, and local flavors that make touring here well worth your time. Unlike more commercialized destinations, Kaifeng’s tours focus on authentic experiences like exploring the Song dynasty relics or wandering through narrow alleys where history still whispers. For instance, a visit to the Iron Pagoda or Song-style Millennium Park** reveals the city’s artistic soul, while the local street food scene offers a delicious taste of everyday life. If you’re a history lover or simply someone eager to see a different side of China, these tours can turn your visit into a memorable journey.
In this guide, we highlight three top tours — from a hassle-free city exploration to a deep dive into Kaifeng’s heritage and even a nearby trip from Zhengzhou. Whether you’re after a relaxed city stroll, a cultural workshop, or a combined trip to Beijing’s landmarks, there’s something here for every traveler looking to make the most of their time in Middle China.
1. Zhengzhou: Kaifeng Top Sites, Zero Hassle Must-See City Tour
At number one on our list, this Zhengzhou: Kaifeng Top Sites, Zero Hassle Must-See City Tour offers a smooth, private introduction to Kaifeng’s standout sights. Priced at $222 per person, it’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive experience without the hassle of planning or navigating on their own. The tour kicks off with a private guide who can personalize the journey based on your interests, making sure you see what matters most—be it the Song-style Millennium Park with its ancient architecture or the Iron Pagoda, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
This tour also features a delicious steamed dumplings lunch, giving you a taste of authentic local cuisine. The focus on history and secrets that most travelers miss makes it stand out. You’ll learn about Kaifeng’s past in a relaxed setting, all while enjoying the convenience of pre-arranged logistics. The private guide means questions are welcomed, and the itinerary can be tweaked, ensuring you get a tailored experience. It’s ideal for first-timers or those short on time but eager to see the best of Kaifeng.
Bottom Line: This tour packs in highlights with local flavor, perfect for travelers who want a hassle-free, personalized day in Kaifeng.
$222 per person
2. All-Inclusive Private Tour: Mutianyu Great Wall & Forbidden City
Number two is a classic escape from Kaifeng to Beijing — All-Inclusive Private Tour: Mutianyu Great Wall & Forbidden City at $249 per person. This 9-hour journey is a fantastic way to hit two of China’s most famous landmarks in one day. Starting from Beijing, the tour gives you priority tickets to both the Forbidden City and the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall — a real time-saver during busy seasons.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of sightseeing, walking, and a local lunch that fuels your afternoon explorations. The Forbidden City is covered in a guided 2-hour tour, revealing the story behind China’s imperial past, while the 2.5-hour exploration of the Great Wall offers an opportunity to hike and enjoy panoramic views. You can choose to take the cable car, ski lift, or toboggan, adding a bit of fun to climbing up the ancient stones.
The reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides make the experience memorable, and the pre-booked tickets eliminate long lines. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want to see China’s iconic structures up close. Keep in mind, the day is long, but the experience is priceless for history and architecture lovers.
Bottom Line: This tour provides a convenient, all-in-one experience of Beijing’s highlights, ideal for travelers with limited time eager for a rundown.
$249 per person
3. Zhengzhou to Kaifeng: Museum, Incense Craft and Song Legacy
Third on our list is the Zhengzhou to Kaifeng: Museum, Incense Craft and Song Legacy, costing $284 per person for about 10 hours of immersive culture. This tour is perfect if you want to go beyond the usual tourist spots and experience local traditions firsthand. It begins with visits to Kaifeng Museum, where you’ll see relics from the Song Dynasty and shipwreck artifacts, giving a clear sense of the city’s historical importance.
What makes this trip stand out is the hands-on workshop where you can craft solid perfume or incense seals, a rare opportunity to learn traditional crafts directly from artisans. Afterwards, you’ll stroll through Gulou’s lively market lanes, sampling local street foods and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. You’ll also visit Qingming Riverside Park, which vividly re-creates Song-era life, and explore local guild halls and alleys that most visitors miss.
The tour’s length and depth make it ideal for those keen to dive into Kaifeng’s cultural roots. Reviewers appreciate the informative guides and the chance to experience authentic local life. While it’s an intensive day, it’s well worth it for anyone interested in history, crafts, and food.
Bottom Line: A deeply immersive option for travelers wanting a mix of museum visits, hands-on crafts, and street food sampling.
$284 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, interests, and available time. If you want a stress-free day exploring Kaifeng’s top sights, the private city tour offers flexibility and local flavor. For a quick, iconic experience of China’s most famous landmarks, the Beijing combo tour delivers a full day of sightseeing with convenience. If you’re passionate about history, crafts, and authentic local culture, the Zhengzhou-to-Kaifeng cultural tour provides a rich, hands-on experience that’s hard to beat.
Booking early is advisable, especially for tours with limited availability or during peak seasons. Think about what excites you most—whether it’s walking ancient streets, climbing the Great Wall, or crafting incense—and pick the tour that aligns with your interests.
Final Thoughts
Kaifeng’s tours showcase the city’s depth, from ancient relics and imperial architecture to lively marketplaces and traditional crafts. For travelers seeking a balanced mix of history and local life, Tour #3 offers an authentic deep dive. If you prefer a convenient, all-in-one experience of Beijing’s landmarks, Tour #2 is your best pick. And for those who want a personalized, hassle-free tour of Kaifeng itself, the first option stands out.
No matter which you choose, booking in advance guarantees a smoother, more rewarding experience. Exploring Kaifeng’s treasures can be a highlight of your trip to China — so plan well, and enjoy every moment of it.