ForbiddenCity & Tiananmen Square ticket with guide(optional)

Exploring Beijing’s most iconic sites can feel overwhelming, especially when faced with long lines and crowded spaces. This ticket-based experience, which grants access to Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, aims to streamline your visit while offering a flexible schedule — all at a very accessible price point of just $8 per person.

From the moment you receive your electronic tickets to the options for guided tours, this experience emphasizes convenience and value. We love the clarity of the booking process, the opportunity to choose your preferred visiting hours, and the chance to enjoy these historic landmarks at your own pace. That said, it’s worth noting that if you’re not an early riser or visiting during peak tourist season like August, you might encounter larger crowds or longer queues.

This ticket is best suited for travelers who want to see the city’s top sights without breaking the bank or fussing with complicated arrangements. Whether you’re on a quick layover or a budget-conscious trip, it’s a smart way to cover essential Beijing highlights with minimal stress.

Good To Know

• Affordable price at $8 per person for entry to two of Beijing’s most famous attractions.
• Flexible visiting hours allowing you to choose the best time for your schedule.
• Optional guided tour available, providing added insight into the sites’ history.
• Electronic tickets sent via email streamline the process — just show your phone at the entrance.
• Book at least a day in advance for the smoothest experience; last-minute bookings are not recommended.
• Ideal for travelers wanting authentic, quick visits to Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City without the fuss of group tours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Guide to Visiting Beijing’s Top Landmarks

How the booking works and what you receive

This experience is straightforward to arrange. After booking, you’ll receive your tickets via email or WhatsApp, which simplifies the entry process. Remember, the voucher from GetYourGuide is not the actual ticket — you need to use the emailed tickets on the day of your visit. The key detail here is that you must reserve no later than 22:00 (UTC+8) the night before to secure your spot.

The reservation process requires your full name (matching your passport), passport number, sex, nationality, and your preferred visit time. It’s a good idea to have these details ready to avoid last-minute hassle.

How to get there

The closest metro stop is Tian’anmen East Station (Line 1). Exiting here puts you right at the edge of Tiananmen Square, making it a practical starting point for your day. This ease of access is especially beneficial if you want to maximize your sightseeing time.

What you can expect during your visit

The experience offers a choice of visiting Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City during different times of the day, including early morning, afternoon, and evening slots. Each has its unique appeal:

• Tiananmen Square: The large open space is best experienced in the early morning or late afternoon when crowds thin out, allowing for a more contemplative moment or a good photo op.
• Flag ceremony: Available from 5:30 to 7:00 AM, this is a moving, patriotic moment that many travelers find meaningful if they’re early risers.
• Forbidden City: The visits are split into morning (8:30-12:00) and afternoon (11:00-15:30) slots. Expect a lot of walking through massive courtyards, impressive halls, and intricate architecture.

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What should travelers bring?

• Passport or ID card: Essential for verification at entry.
• Comfortable shoes: With extensive walking, sturdy footwear is a must.
• No backpacks allowed: Be prepared to leave larger bags behind or use lockers if available.

Considerations and tips

• The Forbidden City is closed on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly.
• Visiting during peak months like August might mean longer queues, as one reviewer noted, “it’s better to go very early” to avoid crowds.
• The guide option is available but optional — if you’re familiar with Chinese history or prefer exploring independently, you might opt out.

The Experience in Detail

Tiananmen Square

This iconic square is much more than just an open space; it’s a place layered with political and cultural significance. Visiting it at different times can change the vibe — early mornings have a peaceful serenity, while afternoons are bustling with travelers and locals alike. The square’s vastness makes it a perfect spot for photos, especially when the sky is clear.

One reviewer shared that “the square is huge… impressive,” and appreciated the ease of entry with their pre-booked tickets. The ability to choose a specific time for the flag-raising ceremony allows visitors to witness a traditional, ceremonial display of national pride — a moving experience for many.

The Forbidden City

Once inside, the scale and grandeur of the Imperial Palace are hard to ignore. The sprawling complex is a maze of courtyards, halls, and ancient walls, offering glimpses into China’s dynastic past. The morning visit (8:30-12:00) tends to be less crowded, giving a quieter, more reflective experience, though you’ll still need to keep up with the large group.

Many reviews pointed out that “the Forbidden City is enormous” and that only parts of the interior are accessible — a common situation due to preservation efforts. Still, the architecture, painted corridors, and intricate roof details reveal a lot about China’s imperial grandeur.

The Value of Guided Options

While the standard tickets are excellent for independent exploration, an optional guide can add context and stories behind the sights. The review from “Giulia” notes that the booking process was smooth and reliable, adding confidence to the experience.

Timing and Crowd Control

Timing is everything. Visiting early or late in the day can help avoid the biggest crowds, especially in peak summer months. The red flag-raising ceremony morning slot is particularly popular but requires an early start. If you’re not an early riser, the afternoon or evening visits still offer plenty of opportunity to soak in the history without the rush.

Cost and Value Analysis

At just $8 per person, this ticket offers remarkable value. Compared to full guided tours that can cost significantly more, this option lets you explore these landmarks at a fraction of the price. For budget travelers or those short on time, it’s a practical way to hit the highlights without sacrificing the experience.

The added benefit of flexible timing and email delivery makes it especially convenient. However, if you’re looking for detailed historical commentary or an intimate guided experience, you might consider supplementing this ticket with a private guide or tour.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

• Budget travelers seeking a quick, authentic experience of Beijing’s main sights.
• First-time visitors wanting a straightforward, hassle-free entry process.
• Those comfortable with self-guided exploration but who want the peace of mind of pre-booked tickets.
• Visitors aiming to visit during non-peak hours and avoid long queues.
• Travelers with a flexible schedule who can choose their preferred visiting times.

Who Might Not Love It

• Visitors with mobility impairments (due to large distances and walking).
• Those looking for detailed guided commentary during their visit.
• People visiting during peak tourist seasons without the chance to arrive early.

FAQ

Do I need to print my tickets?
No, your tickets are sent via email or WhatsApp, and you can simply show them on your phone at the entrance.

What is the best time to visit Tiananmen Square?
Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for fewer crowds. The flag ceremony at sunrise offers a particularly memorable experience.

Can I choose the visiting time for the Forbidden City?
Yes, you can select from morning (8:30-12:00) or afternoon (11:00-15:30) slots when booking.

Is there a guided tour included?
The ticket includes an optional guide, but it’s not mandatory. If you want a guided experience, select that option during booking.

What should I bring with me?
Bring your passport or ID, wear comfortable walking shoes, and note that backpacks are not allowed inside.

Is the Forbidden City closed on certain days?
Yes, it is closed on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This ticket-based experience to Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City offers great value and flexibility for those eager to see Beijing’s iconic landmarks without the hassle of long lines or inflated prices. It suits travelers who prefer a self-guided visit, appreciate planning ahead, and want to make the most of their limited time in the city.

While it doesn’t include a guided tour by default, the option is there for those who want deeper context. The straightforward booking process and email delivery make it convenient, especially for first-time visitors unfamiliar with local logistics.

If your goal is to tick off these must-see sites on a budget while maintaining control over your schedule, this ticket provides a reliable and cost-effective solution. Simply keep in mind the best visiting times and plan accordingly to enjoy a memorable, stress-free sightseeing day.

In summary, this experience offers excellent value, ease of access, and the chance to explore Beijing’s heart with minimal fuss. It’s an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers who want to see the sights at their own pace, especially during less crowded hours. Just remember to book in advance and prepare for a day full of history, culture, and impressive architecture.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby