Beijing Guide

Beijing Historic Tours

Discover Beijing's imperial history, from the Forbidden City to ancient palaces, experiencing the historic grandeur that defines China's ancient capital

30+ tours
From $60
Half day to full day
Beijing Historic Tours

Beijing is China's ancient capital with over 3,000 years of history, where imperial palaces, ancient monuments, and historic sites create historic experiences that make historic tours essential for understanding China's cultural heritage! Historic tours take you to Beijing's most important historic sites, from visiting the iconic Forbidden City to exploring ancient temples and palaces, from understanding imperial history to learning about Chinese civilization, and from seeing ancient architecture to discovering why Beijing is historically significant. Experience the historic grandeur that defines Beijing, see why the city is so historically important, learn about imperial China, and discover why historic tours are the foundation of any Beijing visit. Whether you're seeking imperial palaces, ancient monuments, or comprehensive historic exploration, historic tours provide engaging journeys that showcase the incredible history that makes Beijing fascinating. From Forbidden City to Hutongs, from imperial to ancient, historic tours ensure you experience the historical legacy that defines Beijing!

Featured Historic Tours Tours

Discover our top picks for historic tours in Beijing

Beijing Historical Tour II including Summer Palace, Lama Temple & Panda Garden
From $93
Free Cancellation

Visit two of Beijing’s most important historic sites on a full-day tour that features the Lama Temple (Yonghegong) and UNESCO heritage-listed Summer Palace. You also see giant pandas, stop at a jade store and tea house, and relax over a Chinese-style lunch. Your experienced guide provides informative commentary on the history and culture of each site, as well as background on China's famous panda bears and an introduction to modern Beijing. Enjoy time for photos and questions at each stop on this fascinating Beijing sightseeing tour.

4.2(185)
7h
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Beijing Historic City Guided Walking Tour + Calligraphy Creation
From $5
Free Cancellation

Step into the glorious past of China’s imperial capital! In 3.5 hours, gain a understanding of Beijing’s dynastic history, explore its most treasured time-honored brands, and uncover the city’s urban planning progress and challenges. Join our expert local guide and master storytellers to see the city’s seamless blend of history and modernity: from old hutong residences and bustling marketplaces, to vibrant street food vendors! IMPORTANT: Please note that the booking fee charged here is solely to reserve your spot, as the tour operates on a tips-based model, meaning you decide how much your guide deserves for their hard work. We suggest a tip of 160-200 RMB (20-25 USD/EURO), which we believe is a fair amount compared to the cost of a regular tour:) This voluntary tip is a way to recognize your guide's efforts and helps us maintain this exciting job! *This is a shared group tour, limited to 6 guests per booking. If your group exceeds 6 people, please contact us for a private tour.

4.9(59)
3h 30m
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Beijing Historical Tour I - Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square & Temple of Heaven
From $93
Free Cancellation

Immerse yourself in the beguiling city of Beijing during a full-day tour of the city’s most significant historical sites. Visit legendary landmarks like the Forbidden City; absorb the sacred ambience at the Temple of Heaven; and marvel at the structural beauty of Tian’anmen Square. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, delve into the rich history of the city and discover one of the oldest cultures on earth. Convenient round-trip transportation from your Beijing hotel is included on this tour. •Tour the Tian An Men Square •Explore the legendary Forbidden City, known as the Imperial Palace Museum •Stroll through the Temple of Heaven, built in Ming and Qing Dynasties •You'll have the opportunity to enjoy Chinese style lunch •Informative and friendly guide •Hotel pickup and drop off

3.9(119)
7h
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Historical Background Tour in Beijing Inner City
From $95
Free Cancellation

Explore Beijing’s hidden gems with a Beijinger, uncovering rich history beyond the usual tourist spots and authentic Beijing food.

6h
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Beijing Middle Axis Exploration with Local Bites & Historic Gems
From $98
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Start your Beijing experience with a perfect introduction with History, Food, local life and Culture of this unique capital! This private tour covers the attractions such as the Coal Hill Park, the Houhai lake, and Drum Tower area. Sit with the local to taste food and drinks, and stroll around the Yandaixiejie street and Nanluoguxiang allay to shop for your China souvenir. We will lead you from the main streets to the hidden alleys, give you a quick overview of Beijing, and you will be fascinated by this beautiful bustling city.

3h
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In Depth Historical Tour in the Forbidden City Beijing
From $130
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

It’s always more than the sceneries. Stories bring the attractions alive! I’m not just here to show you the sights; I’m here to bring the stories of China’s rich history to life. From the ancient wonders of the Great Wall to the imperial treasures of the Forbidden City, I’ll connect the dots between the past and present, weaving in fascinating tales that make each attraction unforgettable. It’s more than just the scenery – it’s the stories that make these places truly come alive. Whether you're a history lover or a curious traveler, I promise you’ll leave with more than just great photos – you'll take home the essence of Beijing!

2h
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Private Historical Tour I - Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square & Temple of Heaven
From $139
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Get to know Beijing and its amazing history by visiting three of the city's most impressive historic attractions: Tian'anmen Square, the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven and the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvest. Beijing is an enormous city of nearly 22 million people, with one of the oldest cultures on earth. To complete your sightseeing you'll have the opportunity to enjoy traditional Chinese Medicine Center and Silk Store. Note: The Forbidden City is not open on Mondays. You will visit Jingshan Park or Prince Gung's Palace instead of Forbidden City on every Monday.

7h
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Private Beijing Historical Tour II - Summer Palace, Lama Temple & Panda Garden
From $139
Free CancellationSkip The Line👤Private Tour

Visit two of Beijing’s most important historic sites on a full-day tour that features the Lama Temple (Yonghegong) and UNESCO heritage-listed Summer Palace. You also see giant pandas, stop at a jade store and tea house, and relax over a Chinese-style lunch. Your experienced guide provides informative commentary on the history and culture of each site, as well as background on China's famous panda bears and an introduction to modern Beijing. Enjoy time for photos and questions at each stop on this fascinating Beijing sightseeing tour.

7h
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Historical Tour Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City and Badaling
From $330
Free CancellationNew

Join the Beijing Mini Group Full-Day Tour and enjoy price guarantee and a no-shopping promise. Start with a morning walk through Tiananmen Square, skip the ticket queue, and visit the 600-year-old Forbidden City. Get to know Beijing and its amazing history by visiting two of the city's most impressive historic attractions: Tian'anmen Square, the Forbidden City . Beijing is an enormous city of nearly 22 million people, with one of the oldest cultures on earth. Note: The Forbidden City is not open on Mondays. - The mini group has about 12 members for more personalized service. - No shopping detours, factories, tea ceremonies, or shopping-site restaurants—this saves at least 2 hours for pure sightseeing, so you can spend more time at the attractions. The tour is operated for guests' benefits, not shopping commissions. - Avoid queuing for tickets at all attraction entrances. - Professional English-speaking guides provide in-depth commentary and photography inspiration.

6h
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Historical relaxing tour of forbidden city
From $189
👤Private Tour

Hello, I'm Mia - your storyteller for an extraordinary journey through the Forbidden City's living history. Let's walk the sacred central axis where six dynasties aligned their capital with the cosmos, discovering how ancient urban planners manifested "harmony between heaven and earth" in every courtyard. We'll become time travelers: Decoding the rooftop zoo of mythical creatures (spot the fish-dragon hybrid mid-transformation!) Gazing up at dazzling imperial color schemes that put modern rainbows to shame Playing treasure hunter in secluded palace galleries filled with ancient Chinese porcelain whispers and furniture carved with secret symbols The grand finale? The Imperial Garden - where Taoist whimsy, Confucian balance and Buddhist serenity perform their 600-year-old dance among scholar's rocks and whispering pines. This is where you might just find yours. Pack curiosity, comfy shoes, and a taste for adventure. Ready to turn ‘tourist spots’ into your neighborhood?

5.0(1)
4h
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Camping Adventures on the Historic Great Wall of China
From $250
Free CancellationNew

Professional Tour Services with 15 Years of Excellence Why Choose Us? Expert Guide Team The highly trained, multilingual guides combine deep cultural knowledge with passionate storytelling. They hold professional certifications and specialize in catering to diverse cultural needs, ensuring every tour is immersive, engaging, and insightful. Flexible & Reliable Transportation We operate a full fleet of well-maintained vehicles ranging from luxury sedans to spacious coaches. All vehicles meet international safety standards and adapt to group sizes, private itineraries, and accessibility requirements. Global Client Focus We understand the unique expectations of international travelers. From visa support to customized itineraries, our end-to-end service handles every detail – ensuring comfort, authenticity, and unforgettable moments. Your Journey, Perfected Trust us to transform your travel vision into reality. Let’s create extraordinary experiences together.

5.0(4)
48h
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Beijing Historic Sites Tour Mutianyu Great Wall and Ming Tomb
From $238
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Join our group Your trip will be very smoothly, not only understand the history of Beijing, but also reduce the waiting time of scenic spots, our team will use professional knowledge, warm service to warm your heart, come on! Look forward to your joining and becoming our member. Follow the history of 600 years ago, explore the underground palace of the Ming Tombs, the only excavation of archaeological tombs, hundreds of years later, the underground palace intact, witness the emperor and empress buried with many concubines,,If the underground palace opens your eyes, the Great Wall impresses you even more,Mutianyu Great Wall scenery in four seasons is extremely beautiful and the vegetation is numerous, not crowded,suitable for all ages,You can see the ruins of the Great Wall and the magnificence of its restoration,If you want to leave a wonderful trip to the Great Wall and take beautiful photos, this section is your best choice.

5.0(1)
7h
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Why Choose Historic Tours in Beijing?

Ancient Capital

Explore 3,000+ years of history!

Forbidden City

Visit iconic imperial palace complex.

Imperial Heritage

Experience China's imperial grandeur.

Historic Significance

Learn about Chinese civilization.

Types of Historic Tours in Beijing

Forbidden City Tours

Tours visiting iconic imperial palace complex.

Forbidden CityImperial palacesIconicEssentialMust-see

Ancient Monument Tours

Tours exploring ancient temples and monuments.

Ancient monumentsHistoricTraditionalEducationalComprehensive

Hutong Historic Tours

Tours experiencing traditional hutongs and old Beijing.

HutongsTraditional neighborhoodsAuthenticCulturalLocal

Comprehensive Historic Tours

Full tours covering imperial and ancient sites.

Multiple sitesComprehensiveFull dayDiverseComplete

What to Expect on Your Historic Tour

Duration

Historic tours: 4-6 hours. Full day tours: 6-8 hours visiting multiple sites.

Historic Visits

Visit imperial palaces and ancient monuments.

Imperial Exploration

Experience China's imperial history.

Expert Commentary

Guides explain history and Chinese civilization.

Historical Context

Learn about Beijing's role as ancient capital.

Photography

Excellent opportunities to photograph historic sites.

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Historic tours showcase Beijing's imperial heritage

2

Forbidden City must-see imperial complex

3

Historic tours highlight Chinese civilization

4

Early morning tours avoid crowds

5

Historic tours essential for understanding Beijing

6

Combine with cultural tours for complete experience

7

Historic tours showcase ancient capital

8

Historic tours highlight imperial grandeur

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:What historic sites can I visit?

A: Historic tours visit imperial sites including Forbidden City (imperial palace, iconic, impressive), Temple of Heaven (imperial temple, majestic, beautiful), ancient temples, and various historic sites showcasing Beijing's imperial heritage! Historic sites absolutely impressive. Forbidden City most iconic. Each site different. Essential for understanding Beijing. Must-visit - imperial sites. Spectacular historic destination. Perfect historic experiences!

Q:How much do historic tours cost?

A: Historic tours: $60-110 per person including guide and entrance fees. Extended historic tours: $110-200 per person. Private historic tours: $150-350 per person. Prices typically include guide, transport, and entrance fees. Book through reputable operators. Tours excellent value for historic experiences. Essential for experiencing Beijing's heritage. Historic tours worth the cost!

Q:What is special about Beijing history?

A: Beijing history special for being China's ancient capital (3,000+ years), featuring imperial palaces, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and being central to Chinese civilization creating absolutely unique historic heritage! Capital ancient. Imperial history long. Palaces impressive. Heritage significant. Essential for understanding China. Must-experience - historic grandeur. Spectacular historic destination. Unique imperial capital!

Q:How long do tours take?

A: Basic historic tours: 4-6 hours covering Forbidden City and key sites. Extended historic tours: 6-8 hours with more sites and detailed exploration. Most visitors find 4-6 hour tours perfect for historic overview. Tours flexible based on interests. Allow adequate time for historic exploration. Pace allows time for appreciation. Historic tours worth taking time. Tours provide comprehensive historic experience!

Q:What should I bring?

A: Essential items: Comfortable walking shoes, camera, and water! Comfortable footwear essential - tours involve extensive walking. Camera for historic photos. Water for hydration. Comfortable clothing for walking. Prepare for outdoor exploration. Essential gear for historic tours. Comfortable shoes most important!

Q:Are tours suitable for families?

A: Yes! Historic tours family-friendly with educational experiences suitable for all ages! Children may enjoy seeing imperial palaces. However, involve extensive walking - ensure children comfortable. Educational experience for families. Many families enjoy historic tours. Perfect for families wanting historic experiences. Consider children's interests. Family-friendly with appropriate age considerations!

Q:Can I take photos?

A: Yes! Photography allowed in most historic sites - some restrictions may apply! Photography helps remember historic sites. Guides provide photography guidance. Camera essential - sites worth photographing. Photography opportunities excellent. Historic photography perfect for memories. Camera essential for historic tours!

Q:Why are historic tours important?

A: Historic tours important for understanding Beijing's imperial heritage, experiencing Forbidden City, learning about Chinese civilization, and discovering why Beijing is considered ancient capital creating essential historic experience! Imperial heritage impressive. Forbidden City iconic. Civilization long. Essential for understanding China. Must-experience - historic grandeur. Historic tours showcase imperial capital. Essential for historic understanding!

Don't Miss the Perfect Beijing Experience

Book your historic tours today - 30+ tours with instant confirmation & best price guarantee!

Why Visit Beijing?

Iconic Great Wall of China

Forbidden City palace complex

Rich cultural heritage

Traditional hutong neighborhoods

Excellent food scene

Perfect blend of ancient and modern

Best Time to Visit

Weather

Beijing has four distinct seasons. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are pleasant, summer (June-August) is hot and humid, and winter (December-February) is cold.

Best Months

March to May and September to November offer the best weather with pleasant temperatures.

Peak Season

April to May and September to October brings peak tourist season with ideal weather, larger crowds, and higher prices.

Off Season

December to February offers lower prices but cold weather.

Plan Your Beijing Trip

Transportation Tips

Excellent public transportation including metro, buses, and taxis. Walking and organized tours are perfect for exploring the city.

Car Rental Deals in Beijing

Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.

Where to Stay

Find the perfect accommodation for your Beijing adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.

Best Hotel Deals in Beijing

Discover top-rated hotels with exclusive rates and special offers on Trivago USA.

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Discover the best tours and activities in Beijing with AI-powered recommendations tailored just for you.