Tour Overview (Tour Code – PKE17):
“Beijing by Public Transport: A Local’s Journey” offers you an authentic experience of exploring Beijing through its efficient and extensive subway and bus system.
This tour allows you to discover the city’s iconic landmarks, historic sites, and hidden gems while immersing yourself in the daily life of Beijing residents. From the bustling Tiananmen Square to the serene hutongs, this journey reveals the many faces of Beijing.
Itinerary:
Morning:
8:30 AM: You’ll start the day by walking to the nearest subway station. Your first destination is Tiananmen Square. As you travel by subway, you’ll begin to see Beijing through the eyes of a local. Upon arriving at Tiananmen Square, you’ll explore one of the world’s largest public squares, surrounded by significant landmarks like the Monument to the People’s Heroes and the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall.

10:00 AM: Next, take the subway to the Forbidden City, Beijing’s grand imperial palace. As the heart of ancient China, the Forbidden City is a sprawling complex of ornate halls and serene courtyards. Your guide will take you through this UNESCO World Heritage site, sharing fascinating stories of the emperors who once ruled from within its walls.

Midday:
12:30 PM: After your palace exploration, enjoy a traditional Beijing lunch at a nearby restaurant. This meal will introduce you to the flavors and culinary traditions that define Beijing’s cuisine.
1:30 PM: After lunch, hop on a public bus to Nanluoguxiang, a historic hutong that offers a glimpse into Beijing’s past. Walking through these narrow lanes, you’ll discover a mix of traditional courtyard homes, trendy boutiques, and cozy cafes. This part of the journey provides a perfect contrast to the grand architecture of the Forbidden City, highlighting Beijing’s unique blend of old and new.

Afternoon:
3:00 PM: Continue your adventure by bus to the Olympic Park, home to Beijing’s most famous modern landmarks: the Bird’s Nest and the Water Cube. These architectural marvels are symbols of China’s progress and were the centerpiece of the 2008 Olympic Games. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to admire the exteriors of these iconic structures and learn about their significance.

4:30 PM: After your visit to the Olympic Park, take the subway back to the city center or your hotel, concluding your “Beijing by Public Transport: A Local’s Journey.”
Travel Tips:
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, as you’ll be moving between subway and bus stations and exploring various sites on foot.
- Beijing’s public transportation is highly efficient, but it can get crowded, especially during peak hours. Staying patient and mindful of your belongings is key.
- It’s recommended to carry a Beijing transportation card (Yikatong) for seamless travel on subways and buses.
🚇 Private Beijing City Tour by Public Transportation
Temple of Heaven • Tiananmen Square • Forbidden City

Looking to explore Beijing like a local? Hop on the city’s efficient subway system and head straight to three of the capital’s most iconic landmarks—the majestic Temple of Heaven, the historic heart of Tiananmen Square, and the legendary Forbidden City. 🏯🚶♀️
With a private guide, you’ll get more than just directions—you’ll hear the stories, legends, and cultural significance behind every gate and stone. This 6-hour experience offers a fun, flexible, and eco-friendly way to dive into Beijing’s imperial past while moving through the city just like a Beijinger.
👉 Book Your Beijing Public Transport Tour Now
🌟 Why You’ll Love It
- 🚇 Travel like a local—skip the car and see Beijing through its subway & buses
- 🏯 Explore three must-see landmarks: Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square & Temple of Heaven
- 👨🏫 Private guide = personal stories, cultural insights, and full flexibility
- 📷 Plenty of photo stops + walking time to truly take it all in
- 🧭 Perfect for travelers who want an authentic, budget-friendly, immersive experience
✅ What’s Included
- 🚶♂️ Fully guided private walking tour
- 🎟️ Entry tickets to Temple of Heaven & Forbidden City (main admission)
- 🚇 Public transportation costs (subway, bus, etc.)
- 🏨 Hotel pickup (within central Beijing)
- 👨🏫 Professional English-speaking guide
❌ Not Included
- 🏛️ Additional entry fees (such as inner palace galleries inside the Forbidden City)
- 🍽️ Food and drinks during the tour
- 🏨 Hotel drop-off (tour ends in central Beijing—your guide can help you get back)
- 🙏 Gratuities (optional, but appreciated)
📌 Good to Know
- 🕒 Duration: ~6 hours
- 👟 Wear comfortable shoes—this is a walking-heavy day
- 🧳 Great for: Solo travelers, couples, urban explorers & culture lovers
- 🚉 Tip: You’ll get insider tips on using Beijing’s public transport like a pro!
Hello Marie,
Thank you for your inquiry about a two-day trip to Beijing!
Unfortunately, most of our English-speaking tour guides are fully booked due to the holiday. However, we’re happy to provide you with some travel tips for your trip to Beijing.
Getting Around:
We recommend using the Beijing subway to navigate the city. It’s convenient to purchase a Beijing Pass, which allows you to use the subway, taxis, and even the train to Badaling Great Wall. You can buy a Beijing Pass at the airports and railway stations.
For more details on the Beijing subway, check out this link: How to Use Beijing Subway
Markets:
Consider visiting the Silk Market or Panjiayuan Market during your stay.
For more information, please see this link: Top 10 Beijing Markets
Museums and Art:
We suggest visiting the 798 Art District and the National Art Museum, and catching a Peking Opera performance in the evening.
You can find more details here: Beijing Arts and Culture Tour and Top 10 Best Museums in Beijing.
We hope this information helps you plan your two-day trip to Beijing!
Have a nice time in Beijing!
Best regards,
Ruqin China Travel
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I have already seen Tiannemen Square and the Forbidden City but I would like to see other places of interest – contemporary art galleries, markets etc and learn how to use the metro. Please give me suggestions.