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Forbidden City Tickets & Tours

Find the perfect way to experience Beijing's iconic imperial palace. From standard entry tickets to expert-led private tours and exclusive experiences.

Planning Your Visit

The Forbidden City, officially known as the Palace Museum, offers several ways to explore its magnificent halls and courtyards. Whether you prefer wandering at your own pace or learning from expert guides, we've curated the best ticket options to suit every type of visitor.

Important: Advance booking is highly recommended, especially during peak season (April–October) and Chinese holidays. The palace limits daily visitors to 80,000 to preserve this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Ticket Options

Choose Your Experience

From budget-friendly entry tickets to premium guided experiences.

Standard Entry Tickets

Direct entry tickets to the Forbidden City. Self-guided exploration with optional audio guide rental.

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Guided Tours

Expert-led tours in multiple languages. Group and private options available with skip-the-line access.

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Combo Tickets

Bundle Forbidden City with Great Wall, Temple of Heaven, and other Beijing landmarks for best value.

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Special Experiences

VIP early access, photography tours, cultural workshops, and exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences.

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General Admission

Standard Entry Tickets

Direct entry to the Forbidden City with flexible self-guided exploration.

Forbidden City main entrance

Standard Entry Ticket

General admission to the Forbidden City. Explore at your own pace through all public areas including the main axis halls and eastern/western courtyards.

Flexible duration
¥60 Apr-Oct
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Audio guide tour of Forbidden City Recommended

Entry + Audio Guide

Standard entry with professional audio guide in your language. Learn the fascinating stories behind each hall as you explore independently.

3-4 hours typical Multi-language
¥100 incl. audio
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Treasury Gallery at Forbidden City

Entry + Treasury Gallery

Standard entry plus access to the famous Treasury Gallery featuring imperial jewelry, gold artifacts, and precious ceremonial objects.

4-5 hours typical
¥70 with gallery
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Expert-Led Experiences

Popular Guided Tours

Our most-booked tours with certified English-speaking guides.

Skip-the-line guided tour Best Seller

Skip-the-Line Guided Tour

Priority access with expert guide. Explore major halls, learn imperial history, and discover hidden details most visitors miss.

3-4 hours Max 12 people
$68 per person
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Private tour of Forbidden City Premium

Private Historian-Led Tour

Exclusive private tour with a Chinese history expert. Customize your route, ask unlimited questions, and go at your own pace.

4-5 hours Private
$188 per group
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Forbidden City and Great Wall combo

Forbidden City + Great Wall

Full-day combo visiting Beijing's two most iconic UNESCO sites. Includes transport, guide, and lunch.

Full day Small group
$128 per person
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Quick Comparison

Which Ticket Is Right for You?

Option Price Best For
Standard Entry ¥60 Budget travelers, repeat visitors
Entry + Audio Guide ¥100 Independent learners, flexible schedules
Guided Tour From $68 First-time visitors, history enthusiasts
Private Tour From $188 Families, couples, VIPs
Combo Tickets From $128 Visitors with limited time in Beijing
Helpful Tips

Booking Advice

When to Book

  • Peak Season (Apr–Oct): Book 5-7 days in advance, especially for weekends
  • Golden Week & Chinese New Year: Book 2-3 weeks in advance
  • Off-Season (Nov–Mar): 1-2 days advance booking usually sufficient

Important Notes

  • Passport or valid ID required for ticket purchase and entry
  • The palace is closed every Monday (except national holidays)
  • Entry only through the Meridian Gate (south entrance)
  • Exit only through the Gate of Divine Prowess (north) or Gate of Eastern Glory (east)
  • Large bags must be checked at the entrance (free service)

Our Recommendation

For first-time visitors, we strongly recommend a guided tour. The Forbidden City's 600 years of history and intricate symbolism are best appreciated with expert commentary. Self-guided visits are great for repeat visitors or those who prefer to explore at their own pace.

View Complete Visitor Guide