Mutianyu Great Wall&Summer Palace Excursion:Group/Private Options

4.9
(797 reviews)

8 to 9 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

Join our Beijing one-day tour to explore two World Cultural Heritage sites—the less crowded Mutianyu Great Wall and the classical Summer Palace—with all-inclusive perks: professional English-speaking guide, round-trip hotel transfers, entrance tickets to both sites, Mutianyu cable car, and a tasty lunch, no hidden costs. We have two great options: the Small Group Tour (max 8 people) for an intimate experience with more guide attention and a relaxed, easy-coordinated vibe, plus the Private Tour for full flexibility—customize your pace and get one-on-one guide support, perfect for those wanting privacy or personalized travel.

What's Included

Hotel pickup and drop-off
Professional guide
Bottled water
Cable car round trip or ski lift up and toboggan ticket
Lunch
Dragon boat cruise in the Summer Palace
Gratuities
Additional entrance fee to the museums at the Summer Palace

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

Private Tour: We pick you up from your hotel within the 4th ring road of Beijing city, Small Group Tour: 1: This tour is set to leave at 7:30 a.m. on the tour day, though the exact time depends on the actual pick-up schedule. 2: The sequence of pick-ups will be decided according to the number of guests and the distribution of their hotels on the tour day, and will be confirmed the day before departure. 3: To make sure you get the correct details about your pick-up time and location, please be sure to check the email we sent you one day prior to departure. If you don’t receive the email or have any inquiries, we suggest reaching out to us immediately to verify the information and prevent missing the tour. 4: Please arrive at your designated pick-up spot on time as per the confirmed schedule. For guests who are late by more than 10 minutes, we won’t be able to wait, and these guests will be recorded as "No Show".

Itinerary

Duration: 8 to 9 hours (approximately)
  • Beijing (Pass by)

    This Beijing one-day tour provides two flexible travel choices to match your preferences, both including hotel pick-up and drop-off for extra convenience. Option 1 is the Boutique-Style Small Group Tour, which caps the group size at 8 people. This ensures a more intimate, comfortable experience with no overcrowding—ideal for travelers who like sharing their journey with a small group while still receiving attentive service. Option 2 is the Private Tour, which shines with exclusive, customized experiences. You’ll have a dedicated private guide focusing solely on your group, offering detailed explanations, adjusting the pace to fit your interests, and answering all your questions. Reserved exclusively for your party—no sharing with other travelers—letting you relax fully between attractions. Whichever option you pick, you’ll explore two of Beijing’s most iconic scenic spots in one day, helping you make the most of your time to absorb the city’s historical and cultural charm.

    Admission ticket free
  • 1
    Mutianyu Great Wall

    Meet your private guide in the hotel lobby at a time that suits you best. Step into a clean, air-conditioned vehicle. Settle into your comfortable seat and as you set off, soak in the passing scenery while your knowledgeable tour guide regales you with captivating historical tales and fascinating stories. Upon arriving at the magnificent Mutianyu Great Wall, you will be greeted with a serene and laid-back atmosphere. This section of the Great Wall offers the perfect opportunity to stand in awe of this architectural wonder and the breathtakingly beautiful surrounding hillsides. You have the option to ascend to the Wall via cable car or ski lift, and then embark on a memorable hike along its various sections, exploring the ancient watchtowers and beacon towers.

    2 hours Admission ticket included
  • 2

    Your tour guide will not only provide in-depth historical information but also allow you sufficient time to explore at your own pace, discovering the hidden nooks and crannies of this historical site. After the exhilarating hike, you can choose an exciting way to descend. Opt for the thrilling toboggan ride down the slope, or take the ski lift or cable car back to ground level. The Mutianyu section of the Great Wall is renowned for being less crowded compared to the bustling Badaling section, offering a more secluded and rugged experience. With over 96% of the area covered by lush trees and fragrant orchards, the air is filled with the sweet aroma of chestnut blossoms in spring, and the environment remains refreshingly clean and fresh throughout the year. Following your visit to the Great Wall, it's time to savor a delicious lunch.

    20 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 3
    Summer Palace (Yiheyuan)

    In the afternoon, make your way to the Summer Palace, a stunning and impeccably preserved royal garden. This magnificent site is renowned for its captivating landscape, where tranquil lakes, winding canals, and meticulously maintained gardens come together in perfect harmony. The awe-inspiring architecture of the Summer Palace exemplifies the pinnacle of traditional Chinese design, earning it a well-deserved place on the World Heritage List. It stands as a shining example of the world's most esteemed and timeless gardens, a true testament to the artistry and grandeur of eras long past.

    1 hour Admission ticket included
  • 4
    Hall of Benevolence and Longevity

    Upon your arrival, enter through the East Gate under the guidance of your tour guide. As you step inside, prepare to be captivated by the intricate stories and grandeur of this imperial garden. Begin your journey by visiting the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity, a site where significant political events of the Qing Dynasty unfolded. Your guide will regale you with tales of emperors and empresses who once made crucial decisions within these very walls, shedding light on the center of power that this space once represented.

    20 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 5
    Hall of Happiness and Longevity

    Continue to Hall of Happiness and Longevity, a place of unparalleled luxury and comfort for the royal family, stands as a testament to the opulent lifestyle of the Qing Dynasty. The guide will vividly detail the daily life of the Empress Dowager Cixi, who made this hall her residence. Cixi's mornings here were steeped in luxury. Attended by a bevy of maids, she was dressed in sumptuous silk robes, adorned with dragon and phoenix embroidery. Her jewelry selection was equally lavish, featuring rare gems. Meals were a grand affair, with dozens of gourmet dishes, like shark fin soup and Peking duck, served on fine porcelain and silverware. This was the world of Empress Dowager Cixi here, a world where luxury and comfort were not just a way of life but a symbol of imperial power.

    20 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 6
    Long Corridor at the Summer Palace

    After that, make your way to the world - famous Long Corridor. As you walk along this covered passageway, your guide will point out the thousands of paintings on the beams, each telling a story from Chinese mythology, history, and literature. You'll be amazed at the tales behind these artworks as you enjoy the unique architecture of the corridor.

    20 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 7
    Qingyan Stone Boat

    Finally, arrive at the Marble Boat. Your knowledgeable guide will delve into the symbolism behind this remarkable structure, which was constructed to symbolize stability and permanence within the imperial garden. Gain insight into the construction process and the pivotal role it played in the overall design of the Summer Palace. As you explore the Summer Palace, your guide's vivid explanations will breathe life into the historical events and cultural significance of each location. Prepare for an unforgettable journey as you immerse yourself in the rich history and beauty of this iconic landmark.

    15 minutes Admission ticket included

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
  • Please wear comfortable shoes
Supplied by Discover Beijing Tours

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Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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