Mutianyu Great Wall, Summer Palace & Old Palace Private Tour

Exploring Beijing’s Imperial Treasures: A Private Tour of Mutianyu, Summer Palace & Old Summer Palace

If you’re looking to see some of Beijing’s most iconic sights without the rush and crowds typical of group tours, this private day trip is worth considering. For just $38 per person, you get to explore three of the city’s most cherished landmarks: the Mutianyu Great Wall, the Summer Palace, and the Old Summer Palace. Led by an English-speaking guide and operated by a reputable local company, this tour offers a personal, relaxed experience that maximizes your time and comfort.

Two things we genuinely like about this tour are the skip-the-line tickets with complimentary shuttle buses—saving you time and hassle—and the flexibility to explore each site at your own pace. Whether you want to linger over the stunning views or take a leisurely walk through ancient pavilions, it’s all up to you. The only potential drawback? If you’re a fan of guided group activities with fixed schedules, this private experience might feel a little too unstructured. Nevertheless, it’s perfect for travelers who value authenticity, comfort, and depth over speed.

This tour suits visitors eager for an in-depth, personalized experience of Beijing’s imperial past. It’s especially ideal for those who prefer skipping the crowds, want to take their time exploring, and appreciate the freedom to choose optional activities like cable cars or boat rides.

Key Points

• Private, Flexible Experience: Full control over timing and pace, with no rush.
• Authentic Sites: Less crowded sections of the Great Wall and historic ruins.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: Entrance fees, hotel pickup, and transport included.
• Optional Extras: Cable cars, toboggans, and boat rides available at extra cost.
• Focus on Authenticity: No shopping or scam detours—just genuine cultural sites.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides help bring each site to life.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Personal Look at Beijing’s Top Icons

If you’re visiting Beijing, this tour makes it easy to tick off three major highlights in one day without the stress of navigating on your own. The best part? You get to enjoy each site on your own terms, not on a tightly packed schedule.

Mutianyu Great Wall: Quiet Majesty and Stunning Views

Starting your day at the Mutianyu Great Wall sets a high bar. Compared to the heavily touristed Badaling section, Mutianyu offers a more tranquil setting surrounded by lush hills and forest. We loved the way this section feels more authentic—less commercialized and more peaceful. The well-preserved watchtowers and winding paths are perfect for hiking, photography, or just soaking in the scenery.

What really makes this site stand out? The option to take a cable car or toboggan ride adds a bit of fun and convenience, especially if you’re tired of walking uphill. The no-rush approach means you can spend as much time as you like exploring, taking photos, or simply enjoying the panoramic views.

One review mentioned, “We loved the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to really soak in the scenery rather than just rush through.” Another commented on how the skip-the-line tickets saved valuable time, allowing for more relaxed exploration.

Summer Palace: Elegant Majesty by the Lake

In the afternoon, the Summer Palace offers a peaceful contrast to the rugged Great Wall. As China’s largest imperial garden, it’s a place of elegance, with intricately painted pavilions, a serene lake, and shaded walkways.

Since this is a private tour, you can take your time wandering the Long Corridor—a masterpiece of Chinese art—and enjoying the peaceful views of Kunming Lake. Whether you want to relax by the water or explore the imperial architecture, the choice is yours.

A favorite feature among travelers? The opportunity to reflect and absorb the serenity away from the crowded tourist groups. One guest noted, “We appreciated how flexible the guide was; we lingered over the details in the pavilions and enjoyed a leisurely lakeside walk.”

Old Summer Palace: Echoes of Grandeur and Loss

Ending the day at the Old Summer Palace (Yuanmingyuan) offers a poignant glimpse into China’s imperial past. Once a sprawling complex of palaces and gardens, today it’s a hauntingly beautiful ruin—stunning in its own right. The scattered stones and tranquil gardens tell a story of grandeur lost, which many visitors find deeply moving.

You’re free to explore at your own pace here, reflecting on the site’s history and marveling at how nature has reclaimed parts of this former imperial retreat. One traveler remarked, “Walking through the ruins, we could feel the history hum around us—it’s a powerful reminder of China’s past.”

More Great Tours Nearby

Why Choose a Private Tour?

Unlike typical group excursions, this private experience emphasizes personal attention, comfort, and flexibility. You won’t be rushed from site to site, and you’ll have the chance to ask questions and customize your time at each location.

The cost—just $38—is remarkably reasonable considering everything included: entrance tickets, transportation, and a guide. Plus, optional extras like cable cars or boat rides are available at additional cost, allowing you to tailor your day.

The tour is especially suited for travelers who value depth and authenticity, those who want to avoid the crush of crowds, and anyone keen on a more relaxed pace. If you’re traveling with family or a small group, the private setting makes for a more intimate experience.

In-Depth Breakdown of the Itinerary

Morning: Mutianyu Great Wall
Your day starts early, with hotel pickup and transportation via air-conditioned bus (if you choose that option). The drive to Mutianyu takes roughly 1.5 hours, giving you a chance to soak in Beijing’s suburban scenery. Once there, skip the lines with pre-booked tickets—saving you precious time—and step straight onto the wall.

The mutianyu section is renowned for its well-preserved watchtowers and lush surroundings. You can hike along the wall, take photos from various vantage points, or relax on a bench with views that stretch for miles. If you’re feeling adventurous, opt for the cable car or toboggan ride (extra charge) for some added fun.

Afternoon: Summer Palace
After a hearty lunch (on your own), you’ll head to the Summer Palace, where you’ll have plenty of time to explore on foot or simply relax by the lake. The site’s pavilions, corridors, and bridges are a delight for photographers and history buffs alike.

You might choose to take a boat ride on Kunming Lake (additional fee), or just enjoy a peaceful stroll through the gardens. The guide can help highlight the stories behind the structures, making your visit both enjoyable and educational.

Late Afternoon: Old Summer Palace
Your final stop is the Old Summer Palace, where you can wander through the ruins and reflect on its history. The sprawling gardens, scattered stones, and remnants of former grandeur create an evocative atmosphere. There’s no fixed schedule here—you can linger as long as you like, soaking in the atmosphere and contemplating the site’s tragic yet beautiful story.

End: Return to Meeting Point
The tour concludes back at the original meeting point, with a relaxed drive back to your hotel or central Beijing.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring your passport or ID card for entry, as it’s required at each site.
• Water and snacks are recommended since options on site can be limited.
• Dress comfortably and consider weather conditions—bring sunscreen and a hat for sunny days.
• Optional activities like cable cars or toboggans cost extra, so plan accordingly if you want to include them.
• The meeting point is Exit B at Hepingxiqiao Station (Subway Line 5), with the guide wearing a green vest.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking a personal, unhurried exploration of Beijing’s most famous sites. It’s especially suitable for those who want to avoid crowds and commercialism, savoring each place’s quiet beauty and historical significance. Families, couples, or small groups will find this flexible itinerary a refreshing way to see the city’s highlights without feeling rushed.

If you value authenticity, comfort, and a deeper understanding, this tour will serve you well. It’s also great for those who like to customize their day, choosing optional activities and taking the time to really absorb each site.

FAQs

Is this a full-day tour?
Yes, the tour typically lasts around a full day, starting in the morning and concluding in the late afternoon or early evening.

What is included in the price?
The $38 fee covers entrance tickets to all three sites, round-trip transportation (if selected), and a private English-speaking guide. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included if you choose that option.

Can I choose to skip any sites?
As a private tour, you have the flexibility to spend more time at your preferred sites and adjust the itinerary accordingly.

Are there optional activities available?
Yes, you can pay extra for cable car rides, toboggans, or boat rides at the Summer Palace.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is flexible, some walking is involved. It’s suitable for children who can walk comfortably and are interested in history and scenery.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.

How do I meet the guide?
The guide will be waiting at Exit B of Hepingxiqiao Station (Subway Line 5), wearing a green vest with the BusDa logo.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing for flexible planning.

To sum it up, this private tour offers a rare chance to enjoy Beijing’s crowning landmarks at your own pace. It’s a fantastic option for travelers seeking a more authentic, relaxed experience that balances sightseeing with personal reflection. Whether you’re marveling at the ancient stones of the Great Wall, strolling through the serene Summer Palace, or contemplating the grandeur of the ruins at Yuanmingyuan, this tour promises a meaningful day immersed in China’s imperial legacy.

For those eager to combine comfort with cultural depth, and who prefer avoiding the often-chaotic group tours, this experience is a smart choice. It’s affordable, flexible, and designed to make your visit memorable—not just another checklist of sights.

You can check availability for your dates here: