Great Wall of China: Day Trips and Tours from Beijing

Witness one of the greatest man-made wonders and the monumental grandeur of China in all its might as you stir the reveries of walking the well preserved Wall into a reality.

It’s the perfect location to challenge your endurance as you climb the steep steps and get awe-inspired by the complete defensive system built with the construction of watchtowers, beacon towers, and passes. And when you reach atop the Wall, get ready to madly fall in love with the terrific scenery that deserves to fill up your gallery with the nuances of the Ming dynasty.

Within a short drive north of Beijing, the Great Wall of China is the iconic symbol of China and a must day trip from Beijing.

How to get to the Great Wall of China from Beijing?

A Great Wall of China day trip from Beijing features several ways to reach the historic landmark.

By car: If you don’t know someone in Beijing with a car you can always rent one for the day. Car rentals are available at the airport.

By Bus: Taking a shuttle bus from Beijing to the Great Wall is a popular method of transportation. Beijing is a crowded and busy place where foreigners struggle to navigate its roads. Bus tours allow you to sit back and enjoy the sights.

By train: Beijing offers rides by railroad to portions of the Great Wall like Badaling. You can take a trip to a departing station; however, you will need to walk a while before you reach the actual wall.

How long does it take to get from Beijing to the Great Wall of China?

There are many sections of the Great Wall that can be visited from Beijing. Plan two to three hours to reach the Great Wall of China from Beijing depending on which section you wish to visit.

How much does a Great Wall of China tour from Beijing cost?

Visitors have several options for a Great Wall of China day trip from Beijing.

Bus Tours

A Great Wall of China day trip from Beijing bus tour is the most accommodating when you let someone else do the driving. For an affordable rate, you can enjoy the sights without having to worry about navigating traffic and directions out of Beijing. Bus tours start at US$ 15.

Guided Tours

Guided tours of the Great Wall of China get sold in a variety of packages depending on what sections of the wall you wish to see and length of your stay. Day trips range in price from US$ 75 up to US$ 150.

Hiking Tours

The Great Wall of China is one of the finest places in the world to hike to appreciate the famous engineering achievement. Guided hiking tours take you away from the thick crowds on top of the walls for a more personal experience. Hiking tours average about US$ 80.

Private Tours

Private tours are VIP packages that are limited to family and friends. It is a very comfortable and relaxing experience where you get to have an expert taking you around and teaching you everything about the Great Wall. Private tours average US$ 200.

When is the best time to visit the Great Wall of China?

The best time of the year to visit the Great Wall is in the spring or fall. The months of April and May offer pleasant weather and fewer visitors compared to the summer. The months of September through November also present enjoyable weather and fewer people. Most of the terrain at the wall gets cold and icy during the winter months, but you’ll avoid the crowds.

What are the most famous parts the Great Wall of China?

The Great Wall of China is among the finest architectural achievements of all-time. The origins of the wall date to 7th century BC. While portions of the wall have succumbed to erosion and other forms of aging, it remains extremely well preserved. Spend a day admiring the wonderful sights below and over the wall, each with their unique perspective.

Badaling

Badaling is one of the five major sections of the Great Wall of China as it serves as a strategic portal between Beijing and less fertile lands on the other side. Some locals refer to it as the “Key to Northern China”. If you can only afford to stop at one place on the Wall, consider Badaling.

Huanghuacheng

Some people also refer to this section of the Great Wall as the Lakeside Great Wall. Several human-made reservoirs exist near the wall in Huanghuacheng. It is far more low-key and less touristy compared to the Badaling and Mutianyu sections.

Juyongguan

The Great Wall of China passes through rugged Juyong Pass which exists near the center of Beijing. The region is home to the Cloud Platform which was built in 1342. Juyongguan is not always the number one destination for tourists but worth visiting if you have the time.

Mutianyu

The Mutianyu section of the Great Wall of China is among its most iconic parts along with the popular Badaling section. It is notorious for its Ming-era guard towers and sensational views. The wall stretches for 3km along Mutianyu with several photo-worthy moments.

Simatai

Simatai is another Ming-era portion of the Great Wall. Emperor Hongwu supervised its constructions. Simatai is legendary for its exotic steepness up to the Yan Mountains. It has been restored heavily to preserve its origins.

Travel Tips

• Research the different sections of the wall. The five primary sections of the Great Wall of China all offer something different. Badaling and Mutianyu are tourist-heavy, but ideal for first-time visitors. Other out of the way sections are appropriate for returning visitors that want to avoid the crowds.
• Pack plenty of food and water. Everything sold at the Great Wall of China is for tourists and offered at inflated prices. You’ll save money by bringing your snacks. Water keeps you hydrated climbing up and around the Great Wall.
• Follow a guided tour for your safety. Parts of the Great Wall are very remote and rugged. It is possible to get injured or lost on your own. Guided tours keep you safe and allow you to travel in groups where you won’t get lost.