Guilin is famous for its spectacular limestone karst formations, which make exploring the city a visual feast. Unlike many urban centers, Guilin’s natural beauty is intertwined with its historical sites and vibrant local culture. Whether you’re after a relaxing river cruise, a cultural stroll through old town, or an intimate private tour, Guilin offers a variety of unforgettable experiences. One of our favorites is the full-day private tour with Fubo Hill, which combines natural wonders and cultural relics in a manageable, personalized package. You can read more about it here: Guilin: Private Full-Day City Tour with Fubo Hill.
Guilin’s city tours stand out because they provide a deep dive into both the natural landscape and the local culture, with options suitable for different interests and schedules. Whether you prefer a half-day cultural excursion, a full-day private exploration, or even a multi-day adventure including the Li River cruise, there’s a tour designed for you. All of them make use of Guilin’s iconic sights like Elephant Trunk Hill, Reed Flute Cave, and the Longji Rice Terraces—each offering a unique glimpse into the region’s character.
Quick Overview
The list below showcases a variety of Guilin city tours, ranging from full-day private adventures to half-day scenic explorations. Some are ideal for travelers with limited time, such as the Guilin: City Tour with Elephant Hill & Ming Tea Tasting, which combines scenic views with cultural tea experiences. Others, like the 2-Day Private Tour: Guilin Highlights and Li River Cruise to Yangshuo, are perfect if you want a more comprehensive, immersive experience. For those seeking a truly tailored approach, the 3-Day Private Guilin Tour offers customization along with visits to rice terraces and the famed Yangshuo.
1. Guilin: Private Full-Day City Tour with Fubo Hill
At number 1, this private 7-hour tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Guilin’s karst landscape and cultural sites. You’ll visit the Reed Flute Cave, known as the “Palace of Natural Arts,” where colored stalactites and stalagmites create a surreal atmosphere. The guide takes you to Elephant Trunk Hill, the city’s iconic symbol, for panoramic views of the River Li, and then to Fubo Hill, home to over 200 Tang Dynasty Buddha statues. The tour also includes a visit to the South China Pearl Museum, perfect for picking up unique souvenirs.
What makes this tour stand out is its personalized approach, with a dedicated guide who shares insightful commentary on each site. The ability to customize the itinerary and enjoy a private vehicle makes it ideal for travelers who want a flexible, relaxed day without feeling rushed. Reviews highlight the helpfulness and local knowledge of guides like Guan and Andy, with guests appreciating the smooth logistics and rich cultural insights. For about $60 per person, the value is excellent, especially considering the inclusion of multiple major sights in one day.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a comprehensive, flexible introduction to Guilin’s highlights with a personal touch.
2. Guilin: City Tour with Elephant Hill & Ming Tea Tasting
At number 2, this half-day scenic and cultural tour offers a compact yet rich experience. It centers around the Elephant Trunk Hill, the city’s most recognizable landmark, giving you stunning riverside views. The tour also includes a visit to a Ming Dynasty royal tea garden, where you can sample mountain-grown tea and learn about Chinese tea culture—an excellent way to experience Guilin’s traditional crafts.
This tour is particularly suited for those who want a quick overview, combining sightseeing with a taste of local tradition. It’s private and flexible, with transportation included, making it easy to fit into a tight schedule. Priced at $71 per group, it offers great value, especially given its cultural focus and scenic highlights. It’s also ideal for travelers who prefer fewer hours on their feet but still want an authentic taste of Guilin life.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice if you want scenic views and culture in just a few hours.
3. Guilin City Essence: Hilltop View, Handicraft & River Cruise
Number 3 is a well-balanced 9-hour tour that combines nature, craft-making, and a relaxing cruise. You’ll hike up to Chuanshan Hill for sweeping views of Guilin’s limestone peaks, then craft your own fragrant sachet using dried osmanthus and herbs—an engaging hands-on experience. Later, you’ll visit Elephant Trunk Hill again for a different perspective and take a tranquil boat cruise across scenic lakes and rivers.
This tour appeals to travelers interested in both scenic vistas and cultural activities. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy a slow-paced day with plenty of photo opportunities and the chance to learn local craft traditions. Although the $182 price tag is higher, it offers a rich blend of activities that justify the cost, especially with the inclusion of a river cruise and craft-making. Reviewers appreciate the peaceful pace and the opportunity to enjoy Guilin from multiple angles.
Bottom Line: Ideal for visitors looking for a relaxed, culturally enriching day with scenic highlights.
$182 per person
4. Guilin Essence Full day City Private Tour
Number 4 features a full-day private exploration that covers Guilin’s landmarks, including Yao Mountain’s cable car ride and tea plantation visits. The tour kicks off with a visit to the symbol of Guilin and continues with a walk around Fir and Banyan lakes. The Reed Flute Cave is also on the itinerary, offering more of the city’s famous limestone formations. The highlight is riding the cable car to Yao Mountain, where panoramic views of the city and surrounding peaks await.
This tour is well-rounded for travelers who want a mix of natural beauty, local culture, and scenic views. The inclusion of the tea plantation offers an authentic insight into Guilin’s tea culture. The $139 price reflects its comprehensive nature, making it a good value for those who want to see a lot but not spend extra time organizing logistics. The guide’s local knowledge and the varied sites help create a memorable day.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers wanting a full, diverse day exploring Guilin’s natural and cultural highlights.
$139 per person
5. 2-Day Private Tour: Guilin City Highlights and Li River Cruise to Yangshuo
Number 5 offers a tailored two-day experience combining city sightseeing with the iconic Li River cruise. Day 1 includes visits to Elephant Trunk Hill, Fubo Hill, and Seven Star Park, with plenty of photo ops and local flavor. Day 2 features the leisurely boat ride to Yangshuo, where you can enjoy stunning karst peaks and explore West Street.
What makes this tour special is its flexibility—you get to set your own itinerary with a knowledgeable guide. The cost of about $354 per person reflects the private, multi-day nature, providing both comfort and customization. Reviewers mention the excellent guide service and the smooth logistics, making it suitable for travelers who want a personalized, in-depth look at Guilin and surroundings.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a customizable, immersive experience over two days with plenty of scenic views and cultural sites.
$353.93 per person
6. Guilin Local Life & Scenic Wonders: Full-Day In-Depth City
Number 6 offers an eight-hour walking tour that emphasizes local life and scenic landscapes. It includes visits to Elephant Trunk Hill, Fubo Hill, and the Reed Flute Cave, plus a coffee break at Banyan Lake—a perfect blend of nature, history, and local cuisine.
This small-group experience is best for travelers who enjoy slow-paced exploration and want to connect with the authentic Guilin. The $75 price point makes it accessible, and the guide’s focus on local culture and scenery helps visitors get a real sense of the city beyond tourist hotspots. Reviewers note the personalized attention and leisurely pace.
Bottom Line: Ideal for culturally curious travelers who prefer walking and local experiences.
$75 per person
7. Xi’an in One Day from Guilin by Air
Number 7 is a long but rewarding day trip taking you from Guilin to Xi’an by plane. Highlights include the Terracotta Warriors, the ancient city wall, and optionally, the Muslim Quarter for snacks and local life. The day is packed, but with a personal guide, you’ll learn about China’s imperial past and walk through history.
The tour costs about $518, reflecting the inclusion of flights, entrance fees, and a personal guide. Guests rave about the guide Lily’s storytelling and the seamless logistics, making it a good choice for history buffs who want an efficient, guided experience without the hassle of organizing flights and tickets themselves.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history enthusiasts who want to explore Xi’an’s treasures from Guilin in one day.
$518.00 per person
8. One Way Transfer Service between Guilin city and airport
Number 8 is a straightforward private transfer service. For $17 per person, you get an English-speaking driver who will take you between your hotel and Lijiang airport. It’s simple but essential for travelers wanting a hassle-free start or end to their trip.
While it doesn’t include sightseeing, this service ensures smooth logistics, especially if you’re arriving or departing Guilin. It’s best for travelers who prioritize convenience and stress-free transfers over sightseeing.
Bottom Line: A practical, budget-friendly option for seamless airport transfers.
$17.00 per person
9. 3-Day Private Guilin Tour: City Highlights, Longji Rice Terrace, Cruise to Yangshuo
At number 9, this comprehensive 3-day tour is ideal for those who want a deep dive into Guilin’s scenery and culture. Highlights include Elephant Trunk Hill, the Longji Rice Terraces, and a Li River cruise to Yangshuo. The itinerary is customizable and allows you to explore West Street and Ten-Mile Gallery.
Priced at $563, this tour provides a private, tailored experience over three days, perfect for travelers who prefer flexibility and want to avoid rushing. Reviews are scarce but positive, emphasizing the personalized approach and the chance to see Guilin’s diverse landscapes.
Bottom Line: Suited for travelers who want a detailed, flexible exploration with plenty of time to enjoy Guilin and nearby attractions.
$563.36 per person
How to Choose the Best Guilin Tour for You
When deciding which tour to book, consider your budget, schedule, and interests. If you prefer a comprehensive, flexible day, the full-day private tour with Fubo Hill offers a great balance of sights and comfort. For a shorter cultural experience, the Elephant Hill & Ming Tea Tasting provides scenic beauty and local tradition in just a few hours.
Travelers with more time and curiosity should look at the 2-day private tour, which combines city highlights and a scenic cruise, or the 3-day tour, for a thorough experience. Budget-conscious visitors will appreciate the transfer service for logistical ease.
Timing is key—most tours operate year-round, but seeing Guilin in spring or fall offers the best weather. Book early, especially for multi-day or private tours, to secure availability and the best guides.
Guilin’s variety of tours means there’s a perfect way for everyone to enjoy this stunning city. Whether you’re after a quick cultural intro, a scenic river cruise, or a multi-day adventure, these options will help you see the best of Guilin. For a relaxed yet immersive experience, consider the private tours, but don’t hesitate to mix and match based on your schedule and interests. Happy planning—and make sure to book early to avoid missing out!