Private 3-Day Tour Including Domestic Flight : Beijing And Xi’an

Traveling through China’s historic heart in just three days might seem ambitious, but this private 3-day tour with included domestic flights makes it surprisingly manageable—and rewarding. From the imperial grandeur of Beijing to the astonishing Terra-cotta Warriors of Xi’an, this experience is designed for those who want to maximize their time while enjoying personalized attention.

What truly stands out here is the attention to detail, from the private guides who bring history alive to the seamless transfer between cities. The inclusion of entrance fees, lunch, and transportation rather than hidden costs means you can focus on soaking up the sights without constantly reaching for your wallet. That said, tight schedules and quick transitions may not suit travelers seeking a more relaxed pace.

This tour is ideal for history lovers, busy travelers, or those eager for a comprehensive snapshot of China’s most iconic sites. If you’re curious about the country’s imperial past but short on time, this could be a perfect fit. Just remember, a fast pace and packed days are the norm, so be prepared for a whirlwind experience.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Visits to Beijing’s Summer Palace, Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and the Great Wall, plus Xi’an’s Terra-cotta Warriors and city wall.
• Private & Guided: Your own English-speaking guide and private vehicle ensure personalized attention and smooth logistics.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: Entrance fees, flights, and lunch are included, helping to avoid unexpected expenses.
• Time-Efficient: Designed to fit a lot into 3 days, making it perfect for travelers with limited time.
• Authentic Experiences: Visits to iconic sites with local insights, including a silk museum and Chinese tea ceremony.
• Convenient Transfers: Domestic flights and private airport pickups make travel between cities stress-free.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

Day 1: Beijing Highlights

Your adventure kicks off early at 8:00 am with a hotel pickup. The first stop is the Summer Palace (Yiheyuan), a sprawling imperial garden filled with lush pavilions, tranquil lakes, and ornate bridges. It’s an excellent way to kick off the trip, offering a glimpse into royal leisure spaces. The guided visit lasts about an hour, giving just enough time to admire the opulence without feeling rushed.

Next, you’ll visit Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest urban square. Your guide will share stories about its significance, from historic protests to modern celebrations. Spending two hours here, you’ll see landmarks like the Monument to the People’s Heroes and the Great Hall of the People.

The highlight of the day is the Forbidden City (The Palace Museum). As you wander through its maze of halls, courtyards, and imperial residences, your guide will offer insights into the lives of emperors and courtiers. With a two-hour visit, you’ll get a good overview, although some visitors mention that the site can be crowded, so early arrival is recommended.

The day wraps up at the Temple of Heaven—a vast complex where ancient emperors once prayed for harvests. A silk museum en route enriches the experience, and a traditional tea ceremony provides a relaxing end to your sightseeing.

Day 2: The Great Wall and Flight to Xi’an

Day two starts with a visit to the Mutianyu Great Wall, often praised for its scenic beauty and well-preserved condition. The landscape of dense woods and rolling pastures makes for outstanding photo opportunities. You’ll use the Mutianyu cable car—a highlight for many visitors—and have time to explore the wall at your own pace.

Post-visit, the group stops for lunch and visits a jade factory—a chance to pick up unique souvenirs. Then it’s time for your flight to Xi’an. The domestic flight is included, and the airport transfer upon arrival is seamless. Your Xi’an driver will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel, reducing travel stress and maximizing your time.

Day 3: Xi’an’s Terracotta Army and City Wall

The final day begins with a visit to the Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum, home to the famous Terra-cotta Warriors. The guide will help you understand the significance of these life-sized figures, which are considered one of the greatest archaeological finds in China. Expect about two hours exploring the pits and learning about the craftsmanship behind these ancient sculptures.

Afterward, you’ll enjoy lunch before heading to the Xi’an City Wall (Chengqiang), one of the oldest and best-preserved city walls in China. Walking along the ramparts offers a panoramic view of Xi’an’s skyline, blending ancient and modern.

Your day concludes with a flight back to Beijing, included in the package. Upon arrival, your Beijing driver will pick you up for the final transfer to your hotel, wrapping up a whirlwind but enriching experience.

The Experience: What Travelers Find Valuable

From actual reviews, guides reportedly are very knowledgeable, enhancing the visits with stories and historical context you won’t find in guidebooks. This personal touch makes complex histories come alive, especially at spots like the Forbidden City and Terra-cotta Warriors.

Travelers also appreciate the smooth logistics—organized transfers, private vehicle, and flights—leaving little room for stress. The inclusion of lunch and entrance fees means no surprises, which is often a relief when navigating busy tourist spots.

However, the packed schedule means some may find the days quite fast-paced, especially with multiple site visits and transfers. Those looking for a relaxed, leisurely exploration might feel some fatigue, but for most, the value of seeing so much in such a short time outweighs this.

Regarding the sites, the mutual praise of the Great Wall’s beauty and the impressive Terra-cotta Warriors speaks volumes about the quality of these experiences. One reviewer highlighted how the guides’ expertise made history accessible and engaging, especially pointing out how the stories about the Imperial Palace’s history helped contextualize what they were seeing.

Practical Aspects and Tips

• Transportation: The private vehicle and flights mean less waiting and more time exploring. The group size is private, so you won’t be part of a large bus.
• Timing: Starts at 8:00 am, so early risers will appreciate the quiet mornings at some sites.
• Price & Value: At $1,306 per person, including flights, guides, entrance fees, and lunch, it’s a premium experience—but one that packs in many landmarks efficiently.
• What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as sites like the Great Wall and city walls involve uneven surfaces. Carry your passport for identification and possibly for site entry.
• Suitability: Best for travelers who love history, want a guided experience, and don’t mind a busy schedule.

The Sum Up

This private 3-day tour offers a thorough glance at China’s imperial past and archaeological marvels, all wrapped into a thoughtfully organized package. The inclusion of guides who bring sites to life, seamless logistics, and all fees covered make it ideal for those eager to maximize their time and minimize hassle.

While the days are packed and pace quick, the opportunity to see Beijing’s key landmarks, explore the Great Wall, and marvel at the Terra-cotta Warriors all in one trip is hard to beat. It’s a fantastic choice for history enthusiasts, first-time visitors, and those who want an expertly curated snapshot of China’s cultural treasures.

If you’re someone who values expert guidance, convenience, and a full itinerary, this tour will serve you well. It promises a memorable, enriching experience without the stress of planning every detail yourself.

FAQ

Is this tour truly private?
Yes, the tour is private, meaning only your group will participate, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Are flights included in the price?
Absolutely, both the flight from Beijing to Xi’an and the return are included, making travel between the two cities quick and hassle-free.

What sites are covered?
You will visit major sights in Beijing—Summer Palace, Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven—and in Xi’an—the Terra-cotta Warriors and the city wall.

Does the tour include entrance tickets?
Yes, all site entrance fees are included in the price, along with lunch and transportation.

Is there free time during the tour?
The schedule is quite full with guided visits, but you will have some opportunities to explore on your own, especially at sites like the Great Wall.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, your passport, and some cash or cards for souvenir shopping or personal expenses are recommended.

How long are the visits at each site?
Most visits are around 1–2 hours, enough to see the highlights without feeling overwhelmed.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This tour is fixed, but since it’s private, your guide can offer insights and minor adjustments if needed—discuss this when booking.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Generally, yes, but consider the walking involved—some sites like the Great Wall and city walls require good mobility.

This carefully curated experience brings together the best of China’s history and culture, all while maintaining a practical, traveler-friendly approach. Whether you’re on a tight schedule or simply want expertly managed sightseeing, it ticks many boxes for an unforgettable trip.