If you’re short on time but eager to see some of Beijing’s most iconic landmarks, this full-day bus tour offers a fantastic way to experience the city’s highlights without the fuss. Designed for travelers who want a well-organized, informative, and genuinely memorable day, this tour covers three top sites: the Mutianyu Great Wall, the Summer Palace, and the Old Summer Palace. For just $23 per person, you get a lot of bang for your buck — especially considering all transportation, entrance fees, and a guide are included.
What we love about this tour is its efficient itinerary—you visit a UNESCO World Heritage site that’s both scenic and well-preserved, enjoy a tranquil imperial garden, and finish with a powerful symbol of China’s resilience. The comfortable bus ride and knowledgeable guides make it a stress-free way to see Beijing’s highlights. However, keep in mind the full-day nature means some walking and a busy schedule. This experience is best suited for travelers who want a structured, no-hassle exploration and are okay with a bit of a rush.
This tour is ideal for first-time visitors, those with limited time, or travelers on a layover looking for a comprehensive sightseeing option. If you value authentic views, expert guidance, and good value, this is a solid choice.
Key Points
- Convenient transportation: Roundtrip air-conditioned bus transfers take the hassle out of navigating Beijing’s traffic.
- Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with engaging stories and historical context.
- Flexible options: Optional extras like cable cars and toboggans add fun, though at an additional cost.
- Authentic sights: Visits to UNESCO sites ensure you’re seeing Beijing’s most significant cultural landmarks.
- Efficient scheduling: The well-paced itinerary balances sightseeing with enough time for photos and exploration.
- Affordable value: At just $23, including tickets and some meals, it delivers good value for a full day of sightseeing.
👉 Check out our guide to the 20 Best 2 Day Tours In Beijing
Contents
- Key Points
- A Deeper Look at the Itinerary
- Mutianyu Great Wall — A Scenic Marvel
- Summer Palace — A Tranquil Imperial Retreat
- Old Summer Palace — A Reflection of Resilience
- Practical Details and Travel Tips
- Authentic Experiences & Traveler Reviews
- Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?
- FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered
- Our Top Picks in Beijing
- More Tour Reviews in Beijing
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Beijing we have recnetly reviewed
A Deeper Look at the Itinerary
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Beijing
Mutianyu Great Wall — A Scenic Marvel
The tour kicks off early in the morning with a trip to Mutianyu, often praised for its stunning mountain views and well-preserved structures. This section of the Great Wall is less crowded than the Badaling route, making it easier to enjoy the scenery and take photos without hoards of fellow travelers. The wall here features restored watchtowers and offers options for optional cable car or toboggan rides—both at additional costs (around 140 RMB each).
One reviewer noted, “This tour departs early so it’s ideal to take nice pics without the crowd!” And indeed, catching the sunrise or morning light amplifies the Wall’s dramatic setting. The three and a half hours allocated allow enough time for walking, exploring, and perhaps a quick snack before heading onward. Because admission is included, you can focus on soaking in the history and scenery rather than worrying about tickets.
Summer Palace — A Tranquil Imperial Retreat
Next, the tour visits the Summer Palace, an expansive complex of lakes, gardens, and palaces that once served as the Qing emperors’ summer escape. This site is celebrated for its picturesque landscapes and traditional Chinese landscaping techniques. The lake views and ornate pavilions make for fantastic photo opportunities, especially if weather permits.
The visit lasts about two and a half hours, giving ample time to wander through the gardens, admire the Buddhist Tower, and perhaps take a boat ride (optional at 100 RMB). One reviewer highlighted that the Summer Palace is a stunning example of Chinese landscape garden design and a highlight that “does not disappoint.”
Old Summer Palace — A Reflection of Resilience
The final stop is Yuanmingyuan, or the Old Summer Palace, a vast park and a symbol of China’s imperial grandeur, destroyed in the 19th century, but still evocative of its former glory. This site, with its ruins and serene lakes, offers a poignant reminder of China’s resilience and cultural richness.
The visit here lasts around 1.5 hours, enough to walk around, reflect on its history, and enjoy the peaceful scenery. One participant described it as “a powerful symbol of China’s cultural heritage and resilience,” which adds emotional depth to the experience.
Practical Details and Travel Tips
Transportation: The entire day is spent on a comfortable, air-conditioned bus that can seat up to 47 travelers. The convenience of hotel pickup (if you select that option) means no stress about navigating Beijing’s busy streets.
Guides: An English-speaking guide is provided, with many travelers praising guides for their storytelling abilities. One reviewer mentioned, “Aria was a lovely guide and a great story teller,” making the experience both educational and engaging.
Timing: The tour starts early, around 8 AM, to beat crowds and take advantage of good lighting for photos. Expect a 10-hour day, so dress comfortably and prepare for some walking.
Additional Costs: Optional extras like cable cars, toboggans, and boat rides are available but at additional costs (around 80-140 RMB). Note that some sites, like the Tower of Buddhist Incense at the Summer Palace, are closed on certain days (Mondays).
Meals: A buffet lunch is available if you choose the option, which can be a convenient way to refuel during the busy day. The buffet includes beer, adding to the relaxed atmosphere.
Authentic Experiences & Traveler Reviews
Many travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides for making history come alive. One review states, “Aria was a lovely guide and a great story teller,” emphasizing that the guides are a highlight.
The scenic views at Mutianyu are consistently praised, with comments like “the perfect spot for nice pictures without the crowd.” The value for money is also frequently mentioned, especially with how much is included for just $23.
Of course, some travelers experienced last-minute changes, such as the cancellation of their main site—like the reviewer who couldn’t visit the Summer Palace but still found the Wall worthwhile. This underscores that, sometimes, logistical hiccups can happen, but overall, most guests feel it’s a worthwhile adventure.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?
This full-day tour offers a balanced mix of history, scenery, and comfort. It’s well-suited for travelers who prefer a guided experience that simplifies logistics, with the added bonus of visiting three of Beijing’s most celebrated landmarks. If you enjoy learning from guides, taking in stunning vistas, and avoiding the hassles of solo transport, this tour delivers excellent value.
However, it’s a long day, and some might find the schedule a bit tight if they prefer more leisurely exploration. Those with mobility issues might want to consider how much walking is involved, especially at the Great Wall.
If you’re a visitor who values authentic sites, expert guidance, and a hassle-free schedule, this tour strikes a good balance between convenience and rich experience. It’s an especially good choice for first-timers or those with limited time in Beijing.
BusDa-Full-Day Bus Trips: Mutianyu, Summer & Old Summer Palaces
“Aria was a lovely guide and a great story teller. This tour departs early so it’s ideal to take nice pics without the crowd! The option with buff…”
FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered
Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes roundtrip transportation by air-conditioned bus, with hotel pickup available if you choose that option.
How long is the tour? Expect roughly 10 hours, from early morning pickup to late afternoon drop-off, including visits and travel time.
Are entrance fees included? Yes, all site entrance tickets are included in the price.
Can I take optional rides? Yes, you can add cable car or toboggan rides at additional costs (around 140 RMB each). Boat rides at the Summer Palace and Old Summer Palace are also available for extra fees.
What if I want a private tour? The description mentions private options are available, tailored to your schedule and pace.
Is food provided? You can opt for a buffet lunch included in the package, which is convenient for refueling during a busy day.
Are there any site closures I should know about? The Tower of Buddhist Incense (Foxiang Ge) at the Summer Palace is closed on Mondays, so check your schedule accordingly.
What should I wear? Comfortable shoes for walking, sun protection on sunny days, and dress in layers, especially if visiting in cooler months.
What’s the maximum group size? The tour accommodates up to 47 travelers, creating a lively but manageable group experience.
In essence, this tour offers a well-organized, enriching look at some of Beijing’s most treasured sites. It’s a convenient way to see the highlights without overspending or worrying about logistics. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply want a snapshot of Beijing’s grandeur, this experience fits the bill.
