Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Private Tour with Acrobatic Show Option

Discover the Best of Beijing: Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Private Tour

This private tour offers a well-rounded experience of two iconic Beijing landmarks—the Mutianyu Great Wall and the Summer Palace—without the hassle of navigating Beijing’s busy subway system or feeling rushed in large group tours. Designed for travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and authentic experiences, it provides a seamless way to enjoy these must-see sights with expert guidance.

What really sets this tour apart is the personalized touch: a private driver, all entrance fees included, and the chance to add an evening acrobatic show for an extra dose of entertainment. The tour’s well-paced itinerary means you can savor each location without feeling overwhelmed, making it ideal for those who want both sightseeing and relaxation.

One thing to keep in mind is that since the tour operates in all weather conditions, dressing appropriately is advisable, especially if you’re planning to hike or spend time outdoors. Also, if you’re a foodie, you’ll want to plan for lunch separately, as food and drinks are not included. This tour suits travelers looking for a hassle-free, in-depth day of sightseeing with the flexibility to customize their experience.

Key Points:

• Private transportation ensures comfort and avoids public transit stress.
• All entrance fees are covered, saving time and money.
• The mutianyu section offers fewer crowds and better views compared to Badaling.
• The tour includes expert tips on dining and local spots.
• Optional acrobatic show adds an extra layer of entertainment.
• Suitable for most travelers, including families with children.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Comfortable and Convenient Pickup

The day begins bright and early with a hotel pickup in central Beijing, around 7:30 am. This set-up is a big plus if you’re staying in the city’s busy core, as it eliminates the need to figure out how to get to the sites on your own. The private mini van is spacious and air-conditioned, making the journey smooth and relaxed. The driver, such as Harry Xu—who has received glowing reviews for his kindness and helpfulness—comes with local knowledge, and will assist with luggage, taking care of gasoline, tolls, and parking fees as part of the package.

First Stop: Mutianyu Great Wall

The highlight of the morning is the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. This part is often praised for its well-preserved structure and spectacular mountain views. Unlike the heavily touristy Badaling, Mutianyu tends to be less crowded, allowing for a more peaceful experience.

You’ll take a cable car to reach the top, which is a highlight in itself—an easy, scenic ascent that offers a bird’s eye view of the rugged landscape. Once at the top, you’ll have ample opportunity to take photos, soak in the sights, and walk along the wall at your own pace. The guide will give tips on where to find the best photo spots and suggest routes if you want to hike a bit further.

One reviewer mentioned that the guide, Harry, was very helpful in giving local tips on where to eat or explore further, making the experience more tailored. Since entrance tickets are included, there’s no need to wait in long lines, saving valuable time.

Traveling by cable car and walking along the wall, the visit typically lasts around two hours, giving you enough time to enjoy the site without feeling rushed. If you’re interested in a toboggan ride or other optional activities at Mutianyu, you’ll need to arrange tickets separately, as they’re not included.

Midday: The Magnificent Summer Palace

After descending from the Great Wall, your private driver will take you directly to the Summer Palace. This vast imperial garden, considered the largest in China, is a different kind of marvel. Expect to wander through lush pavilions, tranquil lakes, and ornate corridors that make it feel like a peaceful retreat from the busy city.

The tour allows around 1 hour and 30 minutes to explore, which is enough to see highlights like the Long Corridor, the Marble Boat, and the beautiful Kunming Lake. It’s a perfect place for a leisurely stroll, and the guide will recommend the best spots for photos and quiet corners for reflection.

Reviewers appreciated the slow pace and the opportunity to take their time exploring the grounds, which feels far more personal than a rushed group tour. Since the entrance fee is covered, you can focus on enjoying the scenery without worrying about extra costs or waiting in line.

Optional Evening Entertainment: Acrobatic Show

For those craving a little extra excitement, the tour offers an optional acrobatic show in the evening. This energetic performance showcases China’s traditional acrobatic artistry—think daring flips, balancing acts, and colorful costumes. It’s a lively, family-friendly way to cap off your day. While this is an add-on, many travelers find it well worth the extra cost for a memorable night out.

Practical Aspects and Value

This tour’s price of around $173.34 per person might seem steep at first glance, but when you break down the inclusions—private transportation, all entrance fees, bottled water, and the option for a show—it offers excellent value, especially for those who prefer comfort and convenience over big group chaos.

The entire day lasts about 9 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each site thoroughly without feeling rushed. The flexibility to choose whether to add the acrobatic show makes it customizable to your interests.

What Travelers Love

Based on reviews, the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Harry are standout features. One traveler shared that Harry had great tips and was very patient, even with a tired toddler, making the experience smooth and enjoyable. Another mentioned how helpful Harry was in organizing their day, highlighting the benefit of having a reliable, local driver who understands the city’s rhythm.

Considerations

While most appreciated the well-organized flow, some travelers noted it can get crowded, especially at the Summer Palace, so early arrival is advised. Also, since food and drinks are not included, bringing snacks or planning a lunch break is recommended. The tour operates rain or shine, so dress appropriately and wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to walk quite a bit.

Wrapping Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This private tour strikes a great balance between comfort, flexibility, and value. If you’re after a personalized experience with a knowledgeable guide, this trip simplifies the logistics of visiting two of Beijing’s most famous landmarks. The inclusion of all entrance fees and private transport means you can focus on soaking in the sights rather than stressing over tickets and directions.

It’s particularly suitable for families, first-time visitors, or travelers who want a relaxed, in-depth exploration without the rush and crowds of larger tours. The option to add an acrobatic show in the evening is perfect for those wanting a lively, cultural finale.

This tour offers a rewarding day with memorable views, expert guidance, and a tailored experience—perfect for making your Beijing visit genuinely special.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour offers complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off in central Beijing, making it very convenient for travelers staying in the city.

What’s the best time to take this tour? The tour starts at 7:30 am, ideal for avoiding midday crowds and enjoying cooler weather, especially in warmer months.

Are entrance fees included? Absolutely, all entrance fees for the Great Wall at Mutianyu and the Summer Palace are covered, so no need to worry about extra costs or lineups.

Can I hike around the Great Wall? Yes, once at the top, you can hike along the wall at your own pace. The guide can suggest routes, but you’re free to explore as you wish.

Is the tour suitable for children? Most travelers agree, especially since guides like Harry are very patient and friendly. Children should be accompanied by an adult, and comfortable shoes are recommended.

What should I wear? Dress appropriately for the weather—comfortable shoes are a must, especially if you plan to walk or hike.

Can I add the acrobatic show? Yes, the show is an optional upgrade. Many travelers enjoy it as a lively end to their day.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience is approximately 9 hours, giving ample time at each site for a memorable visit.

Are meals included? No, food and drinks are not part of the package, so plan for your own lunch or snacks.

What if I need to cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if plans change.

This tour presents a fantastic opportunity to see Beijing’s highlights comfortably and authentically—perfect for those who want quality over quantity and a personal touch to their sightseeing.