2-Day Private Beijing Tour with Forbidden City and Great Wall

Exploring Beijing in just two days sounds ambitious, but this private tour from Lily’s Tour Company makes it surprisingly manageable. It’s designed for those who want a comprehensive, stress-free introduction to China’s capital, with a personalized touch. The tour includes major highlights like Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, the Great Wall at Mutianyu, and the Summer Palace, all with a private guide, transport, and meals included.

What we love most is how the itinerary balances iconic landmarks with local experiences — like tasting authentic Chinese dumplings and enjoying a Peking Duck dinner paired with a lively Kung Fu or acrobatic show. The flexibility of a private guide means you can customize the pace, ask questions, and dive deeper into the stories behind each site.

A key consideration is the travel time between sites, especially the trip to the Great Wall at Mutianyu, which is about 80 kilometers from central Beijing. While the drive takes around 1.5 hours, it’s well worth it for the chance to hike or take the cable car to the Wall itself. This tour suits first-time visitors eager to tick major attractions off their list, those wanting a structured yet flexible experience, and travelers who appreciate included meals, entrance fees, and hotel pickup/drop-off for added convenience.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Covers Beijing’s top sights in two days, ideal for first-timers.
• Private guide: Ensures personalized attention and flexibility.
• All-inclusive value: Entrance fees, lunches, and some shows included in the price.
• Comfort & convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off every day simplifies logistics.
• Authentic experiences: Local cuisine, cultural shows, and stunning views.
• Consider the timing: Forbidden City is closed on Mondays, so the itinerary adjusts accordingly.

A Deep Dive into the 2-Day Beijing Experience

If you’re planning a visit to Beijing and want to get the most out of a short trip, this tour offers a structured yet flexible way to see the city’s highlights. The 2-day private experience is perfect for first-time visitors who want a curated, informative, and immersive overview without feeling overwhelmed.

Day 1: From Tiananmen Square to the Forbidden City

The adventure kicks off with hotel pickup, which saves you from the hassle of navigating public transport — a definite plus after a long flight or late arrival. Your first stop is Tiananmen Square, an iconic space surrounded by government buildings like the Great Hall of the People and the National Museum. Here, you’ll get a sense of China’s political heart and see Chairman Mao’s mausoleum — a photo-worthy moment, and one that sets the tone for understanding Beijing’s layered history.

Next, it’s a walk to the Forbidden City, where your guide will help you navigate this sprawling imperial palace. Expect to spend around two hours exploring key halls, courtyards, and hidden corners. Our review sources mention guides like Lydia and Maggie, who are praised for their knowledge and attentiveness, making complex histories feel accessible and engaging. One reviewer notes, “Maggie was extremely knowledgeable but also very kind and attentive, making sure we had a great time.”

For a panoramic view of the palace and the city, you’ll visit Jingshan Park. Sitting atop a hill, it offers a stunning vantage point — perfect for snapping photos of the Forbidden City and spotting the Beijing skyline if the weather cooperates. This quick stop is appreciated for its scenic views, with visitors remarking on how it enhances the visit.

Lunch is served at a local dumpling restaurant, allowing you to taste authentic Chinese flavors in a casual setting. This is a good time to rest your legs and soak in some local flavors before heading to the Temple of Heaven. Here, you’ll witness locals practicing Tai Chi, singing, or dancing in the square — a lively, authentic scene. The temple itself is an architectural marvel, and our reviewers loved the chance to see elders enjoying themselves, with one noting “many Chinese elders dance, sing songs or play Tai Chi in the square.”

The day wraps up with a traditional Peking Duck dinner, which many find a highlight of the city’s culinary scene. An optional show, like the Red Theatre Kung Fu or acrobatics, adds an entertaining finale. Reviewers like Nosheen and Stephanie appreciate the mix of cultural insights and fun entertainment, saying it “really made a difference” and was “amazing.”

Day 2: The Great Wall at Mutianyu and the Summer Palace

On day two, the focus shifts outdoors with a trip to the Great Wall at Mutianyu, one of the most scenic and less crowded sections, designated as a New7Wonders of the World. The drive takes about 1.5 hours, giving you a chance to enjoy views of rural Beijing along the way. Once there, you can take a cable car halfway up, then hike along the wall, which offers breathtaking vistas and a sense of walking through history.

Reviewers frequently mention the benefit of the cable car and toboggan options, making the climb easier and more fun. For example, one guest notes, “Cable car to the half way and then you can start to hike and enjoy the beauty of Great Wall and its surrounding.” A moderate physical fitness level is recommended, but the experience is flexible enough to suit various comfort levels.

After exploring the Wall, you’ll head to the Summer Palace, the imperial garden of Beijing, famous for its beautiful pavilions, bridges, and expansive Kunming Lake. Our previous travelers loved the peaceful atmosphere here after the exertion on the Wall. It’s a chance to unwind while soaking in the scenery, with many appreciating the photo opportunities and the chance to walk through history.

Lunch is arranged at an authentic Chinese restaurant nearby, giving you a taste of local cuisine after your outdoor adventure. On the way back, you’ll pass by the Olympic Park, where the iconic Bird’s Nest and Water Cube stadiums stand as a reminder of Beijing’s 2008 Olympics.

The day concludes with your transfer back to the hotel, rounding out a busy but fulfilling two days.

Practical Details and Tips

Transport: The private vehicle ensures smooth movement between locations, saving time and fatigue. The driver is praised for punctuality and professionalism, according to reviews.

Timing: The tour typically lasts around 9 hours on day one and about 7 hours on day two, with some variation depending on pace and preferences.

Inclusions: Entrance fees, cable car/toboggan rides at the Great Wall, meals, and some cultural shows make this a good value. The Peking Duck dinner and shows are especially popular, with many reviewers praising the quality and entertainment.

Customization: If Forbidden City is closed on a Monday, the itinerary switches, demonstrating flexibility. The private guide can tailor the pace, which many reviewers appreciate.

Physical demands: Moderate fitness is recommended, especially for hiking the Great Wall. The tour is designed for comfort, but be prepared for some walking and stair climbing.

Booking and cancellation: Confirmations are immediate, with free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance — helpful for flexible travelers.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This two-day private tour offers an immersive, well-rounded introduction to Beijing, combining history, culture, and outdoor adventure. It’s especially valuable for first-timers who want a stress-free experience with a knowledgeable guide, where everything from transport to meals is taken care of.

The attention to detail — from the inclusion of entrance fees to local cuisine and cultural shows — makes it a good deal for those who prefer an organized, hassle-free approach. The guides receive high praise for their friendliness and expertise, adding a genuine local touch to your sightseeing.

However, the busy schedule and travel time might be a bit much for travelers with limited energy or those who prefer more relaxed pacing. If you’re seeking a deep dive into every site or prefer a slower, more contemplative experience, a longer or more flexible tour might suit you better.

This tour caters best to curious travelers who want to see the highlights efficiently without sacrificing depth or comfort. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors eager to tick off major landmarks and enjoy authentic local flavors, all with the convenience of private transport and guided insight.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included? Yes, this tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off every day, which makes logistics much simpler.

What is the price per person? The tour costs $328.00 per person, which covers most entrance fees, meals, and cultural shows, providing good value for a comprehensive experience.

Are meals included? Yes, two lunches and a Peking Duck dinner are included, giving you a taste of authentic Chinese cuisine without extra planning.

Can I customize the tour if I have specific interests? The tour is private, so guides can usually tailor the experience slightly, especially the pace and focus, but the main sites are pre-set.

What happens if Forbidden City is closed on Monday? The itinerary switches days, with the second day’s plan becoming first, to accommodate the closure.

Are children welcome? Yes, children can join if accompanied by an adult. Moderate physical activity is required for sites like the Great Wall.

What should I wear or bring? Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking, and bring essentials like water, sun protection, and a hat, especially for outdoor sites.

Is it suitable for travelers with limited mobility? The tour involves walking and some stair climbing, so it may not be ideal for those with mobility issues, though guides can help make accommodations where possible.

This private Beijing tour combines convenience, culture, and comfort, making it a top pick for travelers who want a thorough yet relaxed introduction to China’s historic capital.