Planning a day trip to Beijing that hits two top sights—the Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace—can seem daunting. That’s where Zanbus’s tour offers a straightforward, well-organized way to soak in some of the city’s most iconic landmarks without the fuss. This particular tour has earned a perfect 5-star rating from travelers, and with good reason: it’s both practical and surprisingly enjoyable.
What we really appreciate about this experience is how smoothly it runs—from the organized transportation to the knowledgeable guides. The price point of just $29 per person makes it feel like a solid value, especially considering that all entrance tickets, shuttle services, and some helpful extras are included. Plus, the tour’s focus on authentic sights—without the typical tourist traps—ensures an experience that feels genuine and memorable.
That said, a possible consideration is the early start time—7:30 am—which, while necessary to fit everything into one day, might be a bit tough for late risers. This tour is best suited for travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing with minimal logistical hassle, especially those who value knowledgeable guides and scenic views.
Key Points
- Affordable and efficient: The tour offers excellent value for its price, with all major entrance fees included.
- Well-organized transportation: A licensed, comfortable bus with pickup at a convenient central location.
- Expert guides: Guides are well-trained, friendly, and knowledgeable, enhancing your understanding of each site.
- Flexible options at the Wall: Choices like cable cars, chairlifts, or toboggans make visiting the Wall accessible for all energy levels.
- No shopping or hidden fees: The focus is purely on sightseeing, making this a hassle-free experience.
- In-depth sightseeing: You get around 4 hours at the Great Wall and 3 hours at the Summer Palace—ample time to explore comfortably.
👉 Check out our guide to the 20 Best 2 Day Tours In Beijing
Contents
- Key Points
- An In-Depth Look at the Experience
- The Pickup and Transportation
- First Stop: Mutianyu Great Wall
- Second Stop: Summer Palace
- What’s Included and What’s Not
- The Value
- Who’s This Tour Best For?
- In The Sum Up
- FAQ
- 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
An In-Depth Look at the Experience
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Beijing.
The Pickup and Transportation
The tour begins bright and early at 7:30 am from the parking lot of The Regent Beijing. From there, you’re whisked away on a licensed, well-maintained bus. We loved the way Zanbus takes safety seriously—exclusive parking, professional drivers, and smooth rides contribute to a stress-free start. With a maximum group size of about 45, you’re not lost in a sea of strangers, but still part of a lively, friendly group.
Throughout the day, a guide is on hand, providing explanations, travel tips, and directions. The mention of using WhatsApp for communication is a thoughtful touch in a city where network issues can sometimes be a concern. This makes it easier for travelers to ask questions or get updates during the trip.
First Stop: Mutianyu Great Wall
Arriving at the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall is like stepping back in time. Known for its restored areas and fewer crowds, this stretch of the Wall offers stunning views and a more relaxed atmosphere compared to Badaling. You’re given around four hours to explore, which is enough to walk a good portion of the Wall, take photos, and soak in the scenery.
The tour guide is a standout here, offering clear instructions and sharing insights about the different routes and ticket options. You can choose to take the cable car, chairlift, or enjoy the toboggan ride—these options can often be purchased in advance on the bus, saving time and hassle. Travelers have mentioned the optional rides add a fun element, especially for those not keen on a long climb.
One traveler noted, “Very good experience to see the Great Wall and Summer Palace with good guide. The meeting point near the center of the city near my hotel.” This highlights the tour’s convenience and the guide’s helpfulness.
Second Stop: Summer Palace
In the afternoon, the group heads to the Summer Palace, a sprawling complex of lakes, gardens, and palaces. The guide accompanies you throughout the three-hour visit, explaining the history and significance of the sites. We loved the way the guide’s insights added depth to the visit, helping us appreciate the intricate architecture and beautiful scenery.
The highlight here is the Kunming Lake, where some tours opt for a cruise (not included in the ticket), giving a different perspective on the vast waterway and the surrounding gardens. The tour wraps up with a transfer to the Bird’s Nest (National Stadium), giving a perfect photo opportunity to end the day.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The tour is quite transparent about what’s covered: round-trip bus tickets, on-site pickup, park shuttles, headphones, and an audio guide. It’s a comprehensive package that allows you to focus on sightseeing without worrying about extra costs.
However, it’s worth noting that meals and personal expenses are not covered, so you might want to bring snacks or plan for a quick meal during the day. Also, travel insurance is not included, so be sure to arrange that separately if needed.
The Value
At just $29, this tour offers impressive value. For that price, you get admission tickets, transportation, guidance, and timed visits—a package that would cost significantly more if you arranged everything independently. The reviews back this up, with travelers describing the experience as “very good” and praising the knowledgeable guides and stunning views.
Who’s This Tour Best For?
This experience is ideal for first-time visitors who want a reliable, straightforward way to see some of Beijing’s most famous sights. It suits travelers who prefer not to deal with logistics or language barriers, thanks to the organized transportation and guided commentary.
It’s also great for budget-conscious travelers, as the affordable price includes most essentials. However, those seeking a more private or leisurely pace might find the group size a bit large, or prefer to explore the sites independently.
In The Sum Up
This Zanbus tour offers a balanced mix of value, convenience, and authentic sightseeing. With its professional guides, well-planned itinerary, and thoughtful inclusions, it’s a practical choice for travelers who want to see the Great Wall and Summer Palace without fuss.
While the early start might be a challenge for some, the payoff is a full day of impressive sights, meaningful commentary, and hassle-free logistics. It’s a solid option for those eager to maximize their time in Beijing, especially if they appreciate guided tours that focus on the sites rather than shopping or gimmicks.
For travelers who love stunning views, expert guides, and straightforward travel, this trip hits the mark. It’s a taste of Beijing’s grandeur, packaged in a way that makes discovering these treasures both easy and memorable.
ZANBUS: Trip to the Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace
“Very good experience to see the great wall and summer palace with good guide. the meeting point near the center of the city near my hotel.”
FAQ
What is the starting point of the tour?
The tour begins at The Regent Beijing parking lot, a convenient location near the city center.
What time does the tour start?
It kicks off early at 7:30 am, which helps fit the day’s sightseeing into one manageable trip.
Is transportation comfortable and safe?
Yes, the tour uses a licensed, fully independent bus with safety and comfort in mind.
What attractions are covered?
The tour visits the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall and the Summer Palace, with optional cruise at the lake.
Are entrance tickets included?
All entrance tickets are included in the tour price.
Can I choose different routes or rides at the Great Wall?
Yes, options like cable cars, chairlifts, and toboggans are available and can be purchased in advance on the bus.
What should I bring?
Bring some snacks, a water bottle, and comfortable shoes. The guide provides headphones and an audio guide for better listening.
Are there any hidden fees?
No, the tour emphasizes no shopping and no hidden fees—just pure sightseeing.
How can I cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if plans change.
The Zanbus trip to the Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace offers a value-packed, well-organized day that’s perfect for eager travelers wanting a memorable, hassle-free experience in Beijing.
