Summer Palace & Lunch at Commune by the Great Wall Day Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Beijing and want to experience some of the city’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself, the “Summer Palace & Lunch at Commune by the Great Wall Day Tour” might be just what you need. This all-in-one package offers a seamless way to visit two UNESCO World Heritage sites—the Summer Palace and the Great Wall—plus enjoy a special lunch at the renowned Commune by the Great Wall. With a private guide and driver, it promises a personalized experience that gets you behind-the-scenes access and authentic insights.

One thing we especially appreciate about this tour is the inclusion of private access to the Great Wall, allowing you to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience. The chance to explore the largest imperial garden in China, the Summer Palace, for about three hours adds a laid-back, scenic element to your day. However, it’s worth noting that this tour involves moderate physical activity, including walking and some hiking, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a fair bit of sightseeing on foot.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day with knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and cultural insights. If you’re interested in authentic experiences that combine history, architecture, and local cuisine—all wrapped into a single day—this tour offers excellent value. Just keep in mind that weather can impact the experience, so dressing appropriately and being flexible is advisable.

Key Points

• Private access to the Great Wall offers a more peaceful, less crowded experience.
• The combination of attractions provides a well-rounded view of Beijing’s imperial past.
• The expert guides bring the history and stories to life, making each site more engaging.
• The lunch at Commune by the Great Wall adds a modern, architecturally stunning dining experience.
• Transportation and entrance fees are included, simplifying logistics and budgeting.
• Suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, given the walking involved.

A Deep Dive into What You Can Expect

Seamless Hotel Pickup and Private Transportation

Your day begins with a pick-up from your hotel lobby. This is a major plus—no need to navigate crowded public transport or worry about directions. A comfortable, air-conditioned car or van will whisk you away to your first destination. The private setting means you can chat with your guide, ask questions, or simply relax and enjoy the scenic drive through Beijing’s outskirts.

Exploring the Summer Palace: A Majestic Imperial Garden

The Summer Palace is a sprawling complex, often described as a masterpiece of Chinese landscape gardening. We loved the way the tour guides, like Lily, explained its significance—it’s not just a pretty park but once served as a political hub, living quarters, and a retreat for emperors. Expect to spend about three hours wandering through lush gardens, grand corridors, and scenic lakes.

Highlights include the longest corridor in the world, a covered walkway decorated with thousands of paintings that tell stories and legends. We also enjoyed a stroll around South Lake Island—a peaceful spot perfect for photos—and a visit to the Tower of Buddhist Incense, which offers spectacular views and a sense of serenity.

The Unique Experience of Private Access to the Great Wall

Later in the morning, you’ll head to the Great Wall—but this isn’t just any visit. With private access, you’ll avoid the bustling tourist spots and get a more personal experience. While many travelers are confined to popular sections, your guide can tailor your visit to include less crowded parts of the Wall.

Reviews mention the stunning views and peaceful atmosphere at this exclusive part of the Wall, which lets you truly soak in the landscape without the throngs of travelers. Expect about 2 hours here, including plenty of opportunities for photos and walking along the ancient stone pathways.

Lunch at Commune by the Great Wall

A highlight of this tour is the lunch at Commune by the Great Wall, a modern architectural marvel praised as the “New Architectural Wonder of China”. The restaurant’s design combines traditional Chinese elements with contemporary style, offering a unique dining environment.

The lunch is included, and reviewers note the quality of the food—local flavors, fresh ingredients, and beautifully presented dishes. If you have dietary requirements, it’s best to advise in advance, but most find the meal to be a satisfying highlight. The setting provides fantastic views of the Wall and surrounding mountains, making the meal a memorable part of your day.

Wrapping Up and Return to Your Hotel

After lunch, your guide will ensure you’re comfortably transported back to your hotel. The entire day runs around 8 hours, making it a full, enriching experience without feeling rushed. The small group size and private guide make it easy to ask questions and customize parts of the tour if needed.

Why We Think This Tour Offers Good Value

At $268 per person, this tour includes all major logistics—entrance fees, private transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and a quality lunch. The private access to the Great Wall, in particular, provides a more relaxed, less crowded experience that can be hard to find on group tours. Plus, the flexibility of a private guide allows for a more tailored visit, whether you want more time at a certain spot or specific insights into the sites’ history.

What Travelers Should Consider

• The tour requires moderate physical activity, including walking and some hiking, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with outdoor activity.
• Weather can impact your experience—dressing appropriately is key, especially if it’s hot or rainy.
• It’s a full-day tour, so packing light and staying hydrated will make the experience more enjoyable.
• Since it’s a private tour, you won’t be sharing the experience with strangers, which enhances comfort and flexibility.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for travelers looking for a balanced, hassle-free day of sightseeing with a private touch. It suits those who want to explore both the historical and architectural highlights of Beijing without the stress of navigating alone. History buffs, fans of architecture, and anyone wanting a taste of authentic Chinese scenery will find this tour rewarding.

It’s also a good fit for couples, small groups of friends, or families with children who are comfortable walking and want a personalized, intimate experience. The inclusion of a local guide enriches the day with stories and insights you wouldn’t get on your own.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, your guide will pick you up directly from your hotel lobby, making the start of your day effortless.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs about 8 hours, covering the Summer Palace, the Great Wall, and lunch.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a delicious lunch at Commune by the Great Wall is part of the package.

Can I customize the visit to the Great Wall?
While the tour has a set itinerary, the private guide can offer some flexibility, especially with the choice of sections to visit.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for the weather, with comfortable shoes for walking and hiking.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees are covered in the tour price.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult; the physical activity level is moderate, so consider your child’s comfort with walking.

To sum it up, the “Summer Palace & Lunch at Commune by the Great Wall Day Tour” provides a well-rounded, immersive experience that combines history, architecture, and authentic local flavors. With private access and expert guides, it caters to those who value intimacy and flexibility in their sightseeing. If you’re after a day that balances cultural insight with beautiful scenery and good value, this tour deserves serious consideration. Just remember to dress for the weather and be ready for a day of exploration and discovery.