Beijing City Walk: Forbidden City, Hutongs, Drum Tower&Roast Duck

5.0
(5 reviews)

5 to 6 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

Make the most of your time in Beijing with this curated 6-hour city walk that blends iconic landmarks with authentic local culture. Skip the crowds and explore the majestic Forbidden City with your licensed guide, who reveals fascinating stories of emperors and hidden details often missed by standard tours.

Next, step into the charm of Beijing’s Hutongs, where winding alleys and historic courtyards showcase centuries of local life. Continue to the Drum Tower, where panoramic views connect the ancient capital with its modern skyline.

End your day with an unforgettable Peking Roast Duck feast—a culinary tradition celebrated by both royalty and locals.

Why travelers love this tour:

Efficient half-day design: Perfect for short stays.

Balanced experience: History, culture, and cuisine in one.

Expert storytelling: Licensed, English-speaking guide.

Exclusive flavor: Authentic Beijing duck meal recommended.

Ideal for first-time visitors, families, and cultural explorers.

What's Included

Service covers transport between sights only(Options: Metro, Taxi, Bike )
All entrance tickets to the sights listed above
English-speaking tour guide service fee
Gratuities
Meals

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Once you book a guided tour, our guide will reach out to you ahead of time and be waiting for you right at the Meridian Gate Square on the day.

End point

After the Drum Tower tour, your guide will take you to a local favorite for an authentic taste of Peking duck—the perfect end to your Beijing cultural adventure.

Itinerary

Duration: 5 to 6 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Forbidden City-The Palace Museum

    For nearly 500 years, the Forbidden City was the epicenter of Chinese power—a magnificent palace complex that housed 24 emperors from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Beyond its stunning architecture and world-class art collection lie stories of imperial intrigue, secret love affairs, and political schemes waiting to be uncovered. On this specially designed walking tour, you won’t just see the sights—you’ll step into the hidden world of emperors and concubines. Your expert guide will bring history to life as you explore carefully chosen halls and courtyards, sharing dramatic tales rarely heard outside these crimson walls. The 2-kilometer route is thoughtfully planned to be gentle and engaging—perfect for all ages—and ensures you experience the soul of the Forbidden City, not just the stones.

    3 hours Admission ticket included
  • 2
    Hutong Tour

    Follow the echoes of history into the hutongs nestled between Beijing's iconic Bell and Drum Towers. This isn't just a tourist spot; it's a living neighborhood. Let your curiosity guide you down narrow lanes, where siheyuan courtyard walls hint at secrets within. Watch elderly residents playing chess, hear the chatter from a bustling morning market, and stumble upon a hidden boutique café in a traditional house. This is where you feel the true, unscripted pulse of the city.

    1 minute Admission ticket included
  • 3
    Bell and Drum Towers

    Climb the ancient steps of the Bell Tower for more than just a panoramic view. This is your chance to become part of a living tradition. Time your visit for one of the exhilarating drum performance shows, where powerful, rhythmic beats that once governed the imperial city reverberate through the air—feel it in your chest. For a truly unique experience, many tours now offer the opportunity to try your hand at drumming yourself under expert guidance. Afterward, wander into the surrounding hutongs. Here, you can rent a bicycle and navigate the maze-like lanes, join a local family for a dumpling-making class, or simply follow the enticing aroma to sample street food snacks from a vintage stall. At the Bell Tower, you don't just learn about history—you can hear, feel, and even create it.

    1 minute Admission ticket included

Additional info

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
Supplied by Great Wall Beijing

Tags

Half-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private and Luxury
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Car Tours
Zombie
Zombie Slice
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

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

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Rating

5.0 Based on 5 5 reviews
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