What's included in the EUR 306 price?

Private vehicle, professional English-speaking guide for 9 hours, admission to three sites (Summer Palace, Lama Temple, Old Summer Palace), traditional Chinese lunch, and non-alcoholic beverages. Hotel pickup and drop-off from central Beijing are included.

How much walking is involved?

Plan for approximately 5–6 km of walking across the three locations. Summer Palace and Old Summer Palace involve uneven, hilly terrain. Comfortable, supportive walking shoes are strongly recommended.

Is the guide fluent in English?

Yes; your guide is a local English speaker who can provide cultural and historical context at each site. Confirm language availability when booking if you require a different language.

What time does the tour start and finish?

Hotel pickup begins at 8am; the full tour runs 9 hours, typically concluding around 5pm. Exact return time depends on traffic and your hotel location.

Are there restrictions at the Lama Temple?

Respectful dress (covered shoulders and knees) is required. Remove shoes when entering inner prayer halls. Photography may be restricted in certain sacred areas; your guide will advise. The temple is an active religious site, so quiet, mindful behavior is expected.

Can I customize the itinerary or adjust the pace?

As a private tour, you have flexibility to spend more time at your preferred sites. Discuss any adjustments with your guide on the morning of the tour or communicate special requests when booking.

Private Beijing Day Tour: Lama Temple, Summer Palace and The Old Summer Palace 1

Private Beijing Day Tour: Lama Temple, Summer Palace and The Old Summer Palace 2

Private Beijing Day Tour: Lama Temple, Summer Palace and The Old Summer Palace 3

Private Beijing Day Tour: Lama Temple, Summer Palace and The Old Summer Palace 4

Private Beijing Day Tour: Lama Temple, Summer Palace and The Old Summer Palace 5

Private Beijing Day Tour: Lama Temple, Summer Palace and The Old Summer Palace 6

Private Beijing Day Tour: Lama Temple, Summer Palace and The Old Summer Palace 7

Best Seller1 / 7

Private Beijing Day Tour: Lama Temple, Summer Palace and The Old Summer Palace

Best Seller

1 / 7

Private Beijing Day Tour: Lama Temple, Summer Palace and The Old Summer Palace

(5)

Beijing, China

Cultural ToursLuxuryBus & Minivan Tours

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About this activity

Explore three of Beijing's most significant imperial and religious landmarks in a single day with a private guide and dedicated vehicle. This curated itinerary connects the grandeur of the Summer Palace, the spiritual artistry of the Lama Temple, and the haunting ruins of the Old Summer Palace—each offering distinct insights into China's imperial and cultural heritage.

Beijing is a historical city with many old things to see. This private Beijing day tour will let you visit Summer Palace, Lama Temple, and Old Summer Palace with a local guide by private vehicle. Chinese lunch and drinks are included. Pickup time from your centrally located Beijing hotel is at 8am.

Highlights

✓Summer Palace: UNESCO-listed imperial retreat with lakeside gardens and restored palaces
✓Lama Temple: Active Buddhist monastery showcasing intricate wood carvings and towering golden Buddha
✓Old Summer Palace ruins: Poignant historical site revealing 18th-century European-influenced architecture
✓Private vehicle and English-speaking guide throughout the day
✓Traditional Chinese lunch and beverages included
✓Hotel pickup and drop-off from central Beijing

Insider tips

★Arrive at Summer Palace early in your tour to beat midday crowds around the lakeside pavilions and Marble Boat
★Visit Lama Temple mid-morning when monks are often conducting prayers; wear respectful clothing and remove shoes in inner sanctums
★Explore Old Summer Palace's western ruins in late afternoon light for better photography of the stone archways and remnants

Good to know

•Comfortable walking shoes essential—expect 5–6 km of walking across three sites with uneven terrain at ruins
•Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen) and water; most sites offer limited shade
•8am hotel pickup from central Beijing; confirm exact collection point and contact details with operator day before
•Camera fees may apply at some sites; check with guide on entry restrictions for tripods or professional equipment

Who it's for

History and culture enthusiasts seeking deep dives into imperial BeijingFirst-time visitors wanting efficient multi-site coverage with expert contextCouples and small groups preferring private, unhurried explorationPhotography-focused travelers valuing access to iconic landscapes at optimal times

Best time to visit

Visit October–November or March–May for mild weather and clear skies ideal for sightseeing and photography. Avoid summer heat and humidity (June–August) and winter cold; late morning to early afternoon offers best light for the three distinct landscapes.

Frequently asked questions

Reviews

(5)

Grace S.

Apr 2026

joseph our guide was class, first thing in the morning

Grace P.

Apr 2026

So nice this one, the carvings on the main temple wall was amazing and Luca the guide explain everything good. Better than Cancun for sure, we go again!

Ruth B.

Aug 2025

loved it — guide Elena top notch, on a rainy sunday

Amara D.

Jul 2025

our guide Leila really knew their stuff and the view from the old fort ramparts was the highlight. First thing in the morning so it wasnt too busy. Over easter break, and worked great for a solo traveller like me, and covered 3 sites in one go. Would book again no question.

Laura B.

Jan 2025

our guide Noa sorted everything for us and the view from the old fort ramparts was the highlight. First thing in the morning so it wasnt too busy. First thing in the morning, and 2 solid hours of history. Would book again no question.

from€306.85/ person

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