Recommended private car

Question

Hi all, I am planning a trip to Beijing in Nov. As I am bringing elderly, I think it would be easier to hire a private car with driver. I speak chinese, so there's no problem in communications. Some questions:-

1. Any recommended private car with driver? Those that can double up as a tour guide would be preferred as I need a guide to explain the history of forbidden city etc. Btw, it would be great if there are those with good reviews or those who have used them previously by the seasoned travellers here.

2. Any recommended website(english/chinese) that provides the private car services?

3. What's the daily cost? Any time duration (eg. 8am-8pm? etc)

thanks for your advice.

Answer

Hiring a private car with a driver in Beijing is an excellent choice, especially when traveling with elderly family members. It provides comfort, flexibility, and convenience, and many drivers can also serve as informal tour guides if requested. Since you speak Chinese, communication will be straightforward, allowing for more personalized service.

1. Recommended private car services with driver/guiding capabilities:

Beijing Private Tour/Driver Services: Many local companies provide full-day private cars with licensed drivers who also have good knowledge of Beijing’s tourist spots. Drivers can provide basic explanations of sites like the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, and Hutongs. Examples of companies often recommended by seasoned travelers include Beijing Private Tour, China Discovery, and Klook private car services.
Hotel Concierge Services: Many high-end hotels in Beijing can arrange private cars with drivers who can also act as guides. This can be convenient if you prefer trusted services with verified reviews.
Local Travel Agencies: Agencies in Beijing such as Beijing Highlights and China Odyssey Tours offer private cars with driver-guide services. You can request vehicles of various sizes depending on your group size and luggage needs.

2. Recommended websites for booking private car services:

Klook: English and Chinese interface, allows booking private cars with optional driver-guide services.
Ctrip (Trip.com): Chinese and English website, offers daily rental cars with drivers; some drivers are licensed guides.
Beijing Private Tour: Specialized website for customized private car tours in Beijing, often with reviews from past travelers.
Viator: English website, offers private car options including local drivers who can explain historical sites.

3. Typical cost and duration:

The daily cost for a private car with driver in Beijing usually ranges from ¥600–¥1200 per day depending on car type (sedan vs. SUV) and whether a driver-guide is included.
Full-day rentals typically cover around 8–10 hours, for example from 8am to 6pm or 8am to 8pm. Half-day options are also available for shorter trips.
Some services charge extra for overtime or additional stops beyond the agreed duration. It’s recommended to clarify with the provider if you want more flexibility for photo stops or meals.

Additional tips:

Book in advance, especially in November when tourism is moderate and drivers may be busy.
Specify if you want the driver to also provide historical explanations; some drivers are more knowledgeable than others, and verified tour-guide drivers may cost slightly more.
Confirm vehicle size to ensure comfort, especially if traveling with elderly members and luggage.
Check reviews on TripAdvisor, Klook, or Ctrip to see feedback from other travelers who have used the same driver service.

Overall, hiring a private car with a driver-guide in Beijing is highly recommended for a comfortable and informative experience, and multiple reliable services are available online in both Chinese and English.

Recommended private car

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