Private Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Tour
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 9 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Private Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Tour worth booking?
Private Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Tour is a 9-hour experience in Beijing, China, from $88 per person. It scores 69 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 9 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 69 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (9)
- Duration
- 9 hours
- From
- $88 per person
Spend a full day with a private guide and driver visiting two of Beijing's classic sights: the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall and the Summer Palace. The route balances time on the Wall with an imperial garden visit, including the Long Corridor, lake views, pavilions, and key Summer Palace landmarks. This private tour is suited to travelers who want a comfortable pace, hotel pickup, and flexibility to spend more time on the places that interest them most. Bottled water, private vehicle transport, and a professional guide are included; lunch, optional cable car or toboggan tickets, and the Summer Palace dragon boat are paid separately.
What you get
About this experience
Spend a full day with a private guide and driver visiting two of Beijing's classic sights: the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall and the Summer Palace. The route balances time on the Wall with an imperial garden visit, including the Long Corridor, lake views, pavilions, and key Summer Palace landmarks. This private tour is suited to travelers who want a comfortable pace, hotel pickup, and flexibility to spend more time on the places that interest them most. Bottled water, private vehicle transport, and a professional guide are included; lunch, optional cable car or toboggan tickets, and the Summer Palace dragon boat are paid separately.
What's included
Included
- Bottled water
- Admission fees
- Professional tour guide
- Transport by private vehicle
Not included
- Dragon Boat cruise in Summer Palace(40RMB/person)
- Gratuities to guide and driver
- Lunch
- Cable car round trip or ski lift up and toboggan ticket
What you'll see and do
Mutianyu Great Wall
In the morning, your experienced English-speaking tour guide and chauffeur will greet you at your hotel's lobby. Your journey will commence with a scenic drive of approximately 1.5 hours to reach the Mutianyu Great Wall, located in a less congested area of Beijing. Renowned for its stunning natural surroundings, including dense forests and verdant pastures that transition beautifully throughout the seasons, this segment of the Great Wall stretches over 1000 meters to the peak of a mountain, before descending sharply downhill. You'll have approximately two hours to immerse yourself in exploration. Whether you opt for a leisurely hike, a cable car or chair lift ascent, or even a thrilling toboggan ride to slide down, there are various ways to ascend to the Wall.
120 minutes here · Admission included
Summer Palace
Once you've savored a delicious lunch at a nearby eatery, the next stop on your adventure is the Summer Palace. Just a little over an hour's drive from the Great Wall, this magnificent palace was once the royal garden. Here, you'll discover a mesmerizing array of pavilions, mansions, temples, bridges, and a vast lake, all surrounded by picturesque corridors. One highlight is the Long Corridor, a record-holder for being the world's longest. Don't miss iconic sights like the Seventeen Arches Bridge, the Qingyan Stone Boat, the serene Kunming Lake, and the majestic Longevity Hill. After your tour, we'll transfer you back to your hotel, rounding off an unforgettable day of exploration and discovery.
120 minutes here · Admission included
Long Corridor at the Summer Palace
The Long Corridor at the Summer Palace is an iconic architectural marvel, renowned for its grandeur and historical significance. Stretching over 700 meters, it holds the distinction of being the longest covered corridor in the world. Adorned with intricate paintings and adorned ceilings, this corridor provides a captivating stroll, offering shelter from the elements while immersing visitors in the rich cultural heritage of China. Its construction dates back to the 18th century during the Qing Dynasty, and it remains a testament to the opulence and craftsmanship of that era. As you wander through its corridors, you'll encounter vibrant depictions of Chinese mythology, folklore, and historical events, making it a must-see attraction for anyone exploring the Summer Palace.
30 minutes here
Qingyan Stone Boat
The Qingyan Stone Boat, nestled within the Summer Palace, is a remarkable architectural wonder crafted entirely from stone. Built during the 18th century, it stands as a symbol of imperial extravagance and artistic prowess. This ornate structure resembles a traditional Chinese boat, complete with intricate carvings and detailed designs. Despite its solid construction, the boat appears to float gracefully on the tranquil waters of Kunming Lake, adding a touch of whimsy to the palace's serene surroundings. A testament to the ingenuity of its creators, the Qingyan Stone Boat continues to captivate visitors with its timeless beauty and historical significance.
15 minutes here
Xiequyuan, nestled within Beijing's Summer Palace, is a picturesque garden renowned for its tranquility and exquisite design. Translating to "Harmony and Pleasure Garden," it was initially constructed during the Qing Dynasty and later expanded in the 19th century. This enchanting retreat features classical Chinese architecture, including pavilions, bridges, and winding pathways, amidst lush vegetation and serene waterways. Visitors can wander through its scenic landscapes, dotted with colorful flowers and ancient trees, while marveling at the intricate details of its structures. Xiequyuan offers a serene escape from the bustling city, inviting guests to immerse themselves in its timeless beauty and peaceful ambiance. After you finish the tour in Summer Palace, it will be about 30-50 minutes back to your hotel in the city.
30 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 15 minutes before departure.
Options you can book
Spanish Guide Private Tour
Pickup included
English Guide Private Tour
Pickup included
Portuguese Guide Private Tour
Pickup included
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- pt, en, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- BetterChinaTrip
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Transportation time to/from the Great Wall is about 3 hours depending on traffic. Please bring your passport/ID, wear comfortable walking shoes, and note that weather, traffic, or site controls may affect the order of visits.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 9 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
8 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
7 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
3 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Organization
3 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Traveler reviews
9 verified traveler reviews for Private Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Fantastic
Our experience has been fantastic from start to finish. From the first contact, the tour organization was impeccable, adapting at all times to our needs and facilitating the entire process. The care and professionalism with which they prepare every detail is noticeable. The tour itself exceeded our expectations and we enjoyed the whole experience very much. We want to make a special mention of our guide and Spanish translator, Vicky, who has been simply exceptional. Always kind, approachable, attentive, and very professional, she made us feel comfortable at all times and enabled us to understand and enjoy every explanation. Her enthusiasm and dedication made the difference. Without a doubt, we recommend this tour 100% and would repeat the experience again. Thank you so much for making this day an unforgettable memory!
via Tripadvisor (translated)
Lisa Turned Our Tour into a Beautiful Memory
Lisa was an excellent guide for our tour of the Great Wall in Beijing and the Summer Palace. She was punctual, organized, and very knowledgeable, which made the whole day smooth and enjoyable. She explained the history and cultural significance of each place in a clear and engaging way, and she was always patient with our questions. Her attention to detail and warm attitude made the experience even better. We especially appreciated how well she managed the timing and helped us make the most of both sites without feeling rushed. Thanks to Lisa, our visit was memorable, informative, and very pleasant. We highly recommend her to anyone visiting Beijing.
via Tripadvisor
Wonderful.
REN is an excellent host, has experience, knowledge but above all has a lot of human quality that makes you feel like a family.
Response from the operator: Muchísimas gracias por sus amables palabras! Fue un verdadero placer acompañarlos. En BetterChinaTrip siempre será un gusto recibirlos como en casa.
via Tripadvisor (translated)
Great Wall of China
Sue was very nice and friendly. She gave good information. She organised a car and a driver as well as tickets to the site. She has been a great well of knowledge both on the wall and other reccomendations for beijing!
via Tripadvisor
Guide Susan is best
Trip to China was truly enriched thanks to our guide, Susan. From the very beginning, she demonstrated exceptional responsibility, knowledge, and professionalism. She was not only a guide but a true host – approachable, kind, and always ready to help. Her dedication to her work and genuine interest in our comfort and understanding of Chinese culture left a lasting impression. I especially appreciated her helpful advice and insightful explanations about China’s history, traditions, and daily life. Thanks to Susan, I experienced China on a much deeper and more authentic level. I highly recommend requesting Susan as your guide – she will make your trip significantly better!!
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 9 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $88 to $695
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 3
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by BetterChinaTrip, who run 24 experiences we rank across 7 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 52.2.
See everything BetterChinaTrip runsWhy this scores 69
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Private Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Tour: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Beijing.
How much does Private Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Tour cost?
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Prices start at $88 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Beijing usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Private Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Tour take?
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Plan for about 9 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Beijing is not rushed.
Is Private Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Tour worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 69 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 9 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Beijing, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Private Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Tour?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Private Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Tour suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 9-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Private Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Tour?
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Around 3 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Beijing can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Beijing and add a light layer if any part of the 9-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Private Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Tour start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Beijing within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Beijing?
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On Outty we rank every Beijing experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Temple Heaven, Lama Temple, Summer Palace & Peking Duck Bus Tour, Beijing Mutianyu Great Wall Sightseeing Full-day Group Tours, Mubus: Mutianyu Great Wall Bus Tour with Summer Palace Options. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Beijing?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Beijing?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Private Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Tour?
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Included: Bottled water; Admission fees; Professional tour guide; and Transport by private vehicle. Not included: Dragon Boat cruise in Summer Palace(40RMB/person); Gratuities to guide and driver; Lunch; and Cable car round trip or ski lift up and toboggan ticket. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Private Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Tour include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 33 listed pickup locations in and around Beijing. Be ready about 15 minutes before the start time.
What languages is Private Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Tour offered in?
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It is offered in Portuguese, English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Private Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Tour?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Private Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Private Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Tour if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Private Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Tour?
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Across 9 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
What booking options are available for Private Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Tour?
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There are 3 options to choose from, including Spanish Guide Private Tour, English Guide Private Tour, Portuguese Guide Private Tour. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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