This private, three-day tour gives you plenty of time to take in Beijing's UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, and The Great Wall of China. And since this is a private tour, please list any special interests you have while booking, from art and architecture to history and culture, so the guide can better prepare for your Beijing experience. Meet a guide from your hotel in Beijing, then start by exploring one of the world’s largest public areas, Tian'anmen Square.

Pass through the south gate to the magnificent Forbidden City, a 250-acre (101-ha.) complex of courtyards, palaces, pavilions, and gardens that served as the imperial palace for emperors and their households for more than 500 years.

Wander through the grand courtyards and opulent halls of the Forbidden City alongside your knowledgeable guide, who will unravel the centuries-old histories and captivating anecdotes hidden within this imperial masterpiece. You’ll explore its three iconic throne halls, each with a distinct royal purpose: Hall of Great Harmony: Hosted grand state ceremonies and imperial audiences. Hall of Central Harmony: Served as the emperor’s pre-ceremony resting and preparation space. Hall of Complete Harmony: Used for ritual preparations and storing imperial jade seals.

Then move on to the imperial living quarters, where your guide will share fascinating stories behind three iconic halls: Hall of Union: Symbolized the harmony between the emperor and empress, and stored imperial seals. Hall of Heavenly Purity: Served as the emperor’s private bedroom and office for handling daily affairs. Hall of Earthly Tranquillity: The empress’s official residence, also used for royal wedding ceremonies.

Your tour of the Forbidden City will end at the Imperial Garden, after which you will exit via the north gate. We’ll then head to a local restaurant to savor authentic Peking duck—crisp, golden skin paired with tender, juicy meat, wrapped in delicate pancakes with scallions and sweet bean sauce for an iconic Beijing flavor.

In the afternoon, head to Lama Temple—a world-renowned Tibetan Buddhist monastery with a rich 300-year history, once the imperial residence of Emperor Yongzheng before he ascended the throne. Follow your guide to explore its gilded halls and intricate murals, and dive into fascinating tales of Tibetan Buddhism, from ancient rituals to the temple’s evolution from a royal mansion to a sacred spiritual sanctuary. In the evening, you may opt to enjoy a spectacular Chinese Acrobatic Show at your own expense. After the day’s adventures, you will be transferred back to your hotel.