Private 3-Day Tour of Beijing from Shanghai by Air

Discovering Beijing in just three days from Shanghai might sound ambitious, but this private tour makes it surprisingly manageable—and deeply rewarding. For travelers craving a blend of iconic sights, local flavor, and personalized service, this experience offers an efficient way to cover Beijing’s highlights without sacrificing the depth of authentic encounters. From flying between the cities to strolling through ancient alleys and feasting on world-famous Peking duck, it’s a whirlwind that balances convenience and cultural richness.

What we really love about this tour is the private guide aspect—meaning you get tailored insights and the flexibility to ask questions and linger where you want. Plus, the inclusion of all entrance fees, some meals, and hotel pickup makes it straightforward and hassle-free.

One consideration to keep in mind is the tight schedule—it’s a fast-paced trip designed to maximize sights, which might leave some travelers wishing for a slower pace. This tour is best suited for those who want a rundown of Beijing’s top spots with a touch of luxury, without the hassle of planning every detail.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with a dedicated guide enhances understanding and comfort.
• All major sights like the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and Temple of Heaven are included.
• Convenient logistics—flights, transfers, and entrance fees—are handled for you.
• Culinary highlights include a Peking duck dinner in a traditional setting.
• Ideal for busy travelers who want a thorough introduction to Beijing without lengthy planning.
• Seasonal scenery at the Great Wall and other sites makes each visit unique.

An In-Depth Look at the 3-Day Beijing Tour from Shanghai

Day 1: From Shanghai to Beijing and the Mutianyu Great Wall

The adventure starts early—be prepared for a 6:00 am pickup from your Shanghai hotel, ensuring you catch the flight to Beijing and maximize your time. The logistics are well-organized, with the tour providing a seamless transfer from your hotel to Pudong International Airport, then a quick one-hour flight. This is a smart choice if you want to see Beijing’s highlights without dedicating days to travel.

Once in Beijing, your guide and driver meet you at the airport and head straight to the Mutianyu Great Wall. This section of the Wall is often cited as the most beautiful and well-preserved part, with fewer crowds than Badaling. The views here are breathtaking—each season offers a new perspective, from lush greenery in spring to snow-dusted stones in winter.

The cable car ride up and down the Wall, included in the tour, adds to the experience—eliminating the hassle of climbing steep steps and giving you ample time to soak in the scenery. Several reviews mention that guides often share fascinating stories about the Wall’s history and construction, making the visit more than just a photo op.

After exploring, the team takes you to Nanluoguxiang Hutong, a place where you can witness Beijing’s old alleyway charm. Walking through this historic neighborhood, you’ll see traditional courtyards, local shops, and modern cafes side by side. It’s a perfect spot to touch the heartbeat of old Beijing.

The day wraps up with a Peking duck dinner in an atmospheric courtyard restaurant. Watching the duck being carved and tasting the crispy skin is a highlight—an essential experience for food lovers, and a world-renown delicacy.

Day 2: Imperial Grandeur and Cultural Insights

Your day begins at Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest public square. Expect to spend about 30 minutes here, soaking in the sheer scale and historical significance. The Square is home to the Chairman Mao memorial and the Great Hall of the People, giving a sense of China’s modern political history.

Next, you’ll visit the Forbidden City, which is often called the world’s biggest palace complex. With over 8,400 rooms, it’s a sprawling maze of halls, courtyards, and ornate structures. Walking through its corridors, you can imagine the life of emperors and courtiers who once inhabited this monumental space. The tour’s guide shares stories behind the architecture and the stories of emperors who lived here.

Lunch is at a highly-rated Beijing hot pot restaurant, allowing you to enjoy traditional flavors in a setting that’s both authentic and comfortable.

Post-lunch, the Temple of Heaven awaits. Built as a place for emperors to pray for good harvests, its architectural design is truly impressive. The site’s park is lively with locals practicing Tai Chi and singing Peking Opera, giving travelers a genuine glimpse into daily life in Beijing.

Day 3: The Summer Palace and Farewell

The final day is dedicated to the Summer Palace, a sprawling retreat with beautiful Kunming Lake, ornate palaces, and lush gardens. It’s a peaceful escape compared to the busy city center, and a perfect way to end your trip on a scenic note. The guide explains the history of the imperial summer residence and points out intriguing details in the architecture and landscape.

After the visit, your guide transports you back to your hotel or directly to the airport, depending on your preference. The tour concludes around midday, leaving you time to relax or continue exploring on your own.

Why This Tour Works

This private 3-day experience is designed for travelers who want to see the essential sights without the stress of planning or navigating public transport. The inclusion of all entrance fees and some meals simplifies budgeting, and the private guide ensures you get tailored insights that enhance your understanding of each location.

The logistics are a standout feature—flying between Shanghai and Beijing saves time and energy, allowing you to pack more into each day. The early start and packed itinerary suit those who prefer a rundown, but it might feel hurried for visitors who love lingering at sights.

The tour’s focus on authentic experiences, such as the hutong walk and Peking duck dinner, adds flavor that many group tours often miss. Reviewers mention guides like “Mr. Zhang,” who is knowledgeable and eager to share stories, making history feel lively rather than distant.

Price and Value

At $5,000 per person, this tour is on the higher end, reflecting the private service, flights, entrance fees, and meals included. For travelers who prefer a luxury, all-in-one package that covers major highlights and minimizes planning stress, it’s a worthwhile investment. The convenience factor alone — seamless transfers, personalized guide, curated experiences — justifies the cost for many.

Additional Considerations

While the schedule is full, there is little downtime, so travelers should be prepared for early mornings and a busy pace. The included meals, especially the Peking duck dinner, add a special culinary touch, but dietary restrictions should be communicated in advance. Also, if you’re interested in exploring beyond the main sights, this tour’s fast pace might feel limiting.

The Sum Up

This private 3-day tour of Beijing from Shanghai offers a balanced blend of iconic sights, culture, and luxury convenience. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a rundown without the stress of logistics or planning. The private guide’s insights and the inclusion of key experiences like the Great Wall and the Forbidden City make it valuable, especially if you’re short on time.

While the pace is brisk, the experience’s depth and the quality of included amenities make it a worthy option for those eager to see Beijing’s highlights in a structured, comfortable way. Perfect for history buffs, food lovers, and those who enjoy personalized service, this tour ensures you walk away with memorable stories and beautiful photos.

If you want an efficient, enriching introduction to Beijing’s treasures, this trip delivers on all fronts — just be ready for a packed and exhilarating three days.

FAQs

Is pickup included in this tour?
Yes, free hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making the start and end of your journey seamless.

Are flights between Shanghai and Beijing arranged?
Yes, the tour includes a flight from Shanghai Pudong International Airport to Beijing, saving travel time.

What sights are included in the itinerary?
Key highlights include the Mutianyu Great Wall, Nanluoguxiang Hutong, Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City (or Summer Palace if closed), Temple of Heaven, and the Summer Palace.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance tickets for the sites listed are covered in the price.

Can I customize the meal options?
The tour includes some meals, such as dinner with Peking duck and lunch at a hot pot restaurant. Specific dietary requests should be communicated in advance.

What is the tour duration?
The tour spans approximately three days, with a busy schedule starting early each day.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for a lot of walking and some physical activity, especially at the Great Wall.

What is the price per person?
The cost is $5,000 per person, reflecting private guide services, flights, entrance fees, and meals.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and any personal necessities. Carrying your passport is essential for the site tickets.

How flexible is the schedule?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide can adapt parts of the schedule based on your interests, but the overall itinerary is fixed to ensure timely visits.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-rounded, efficient way to experience the highlights of Beijing, especially if you value comfort, private guiding, and all-in-one planning. Perfect for travelers eager to maximize their trip, it promises a memorable taste of China’s imperial past and vibrant culture—all in just three days.