For those with limited time in China’s bustling capital, the Beijing Layover Tour of the Great Wall and Forbidden City provides an enticing opportunity to experience the city’s most iconic attractions. Offering convenient airport pickup, private transportation, and an experienced guide, this comprehensive tour promises an unforgettable journey through China’s rich cultural heritage. From scaling the scenic Mutianyu section of the Great Wall to exploring the historic grandeur of the Forbidden City, this layover experience ensures travelers make the most of their time in Beijing. With delicious local cuisine and exceptional customer reviews, this tour may just be the highlight of any Beijing visit.
Key Points

- This Beijing layover tour offers a comprehensive sightseeing experience of the Mutianyu Great Wall and Forbidden City.
- The tour includes airport pickup, transportation, a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, entrance fees, and lunch.
- Participants can choose between a cable car or toboggan ride for access to the Great Wall, followed by a 1-hour hike.
- The tour is suitable for adults, children, and infants (excluding pregnant women), with advance booking required for efficient planning.
- Feedback from a single customer review highlights the tour’s engaging and efficient experience, with a positive assessment of the guide.
Tour Overview

This Beijing Layover Tour offers a comprehensive sightseeing experience, allowing travelers to explore two of the city’s iconic landmarks – the Mutianyu Great Wall and the Forbidden City – during a 9-hour layover.
Priced from K£6,308 per person, the tour provides English and Chinese language options. It’s available for adults, children, and infants, though not suitable for pregnant women.
Travelers can conveniently meet the tour at the airport or a designated location, and the package includes transportation, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees, and lunch.
With advance booking required, this tour provides an efficient way to make the most of a Beijing stopover.
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Itinerary Highlights

The Beijing Layover Tour kicks off with a convenient pickup from Beijing Capital International Airport or a designated meeting point near the city center.
Guests then head to the stunning Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, where they can take a cable car or toboggan ride up the mountain and enjoy a leisurely 1-hour hike along the historic fortifications.
Following the Wall visit, the tour proceeds to the Forbidden City, the vast imperial palace that served as the political and ceremonial center of China for centuries.
If tickets are unavailable, an alternative visit to Jingshan Park is offered.
The tour also includes a tea ceremony and optional stops at Tiananmen Square and the Silk Museum.
Booking Information

Due to government restrictions on Forbidden City entries, the Beijing Layover Tour must be booked at least 8 days in advance.
Guests must provide the following details during booking: arrival/departure flight number, mobile phone number, passport name, date of birth, and passport number.
For those arriving at Daxing Airport, the meeting point is the designated location, reachable by taxi or underground.
The tour is available for adults (11-99), children (3-10), and infants (2 and younger), but it’s not suitable for pregnant women.
Pets aren’t allowed.
Inclusions

The Beijing Layover Tour includes private vehicle transport for airport transfers. The tour also provides an English-speaking guide to lead the experience. Entrance fees, cable car fees, and lunch are all covered in the tour cost. While gratuities are recommended, souvenir photos are available for purchase.
| Inclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Transport | Private vehicle for airport transfer |
| Guide | English-speaking tour guide |
| Fees | Entrance fees, cable car fee, lunch |
| Extras | Gratuities recommended, souvenir photos available |
Participant Guidelines

Travelers aged 11 to 99 can participate in the Beijing Layover Tour.
Children aged 3 to 10 are welcome, but infants 2 and younger aren’t suitable for this tour. Pregnant women are also not recommended to join.
Participants should bring their passport, as it’s required. Pets aren’t allowed on the tour.
The tour includes:
- Airport transfer by private vehicle.
- English-speaking tour guide.
- Entrance fees, cable car, and lunch.
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Customer Feedback

Only 1 customer review is currently available for the Beijing Layover Tour, resulting in an overall rating of 0/5.
However, the lone review provides a positive glimpse into the tour experience. The reviewer noted that despite the limited time, they were able to see everything on the itinerary.
The English-speaking guide was described as "excellent" – interesting and fun throughout the tour.
While more reviews would be needed to fully assess customer sentiment, this initial feedback suggests the tour delivers an engaging and efficient way to experience Beijing’s top attractions during a layover.
Transport Details

Private vehicle transport is provided for the airport transfer portion of the Beijing Layover Tour. This ensures a comfortable and efficient start to the day’s activities.
The tour also includes the following transportation features:
-
Shuttle service between the designated meeting points (Crowne Plaza or Starbucks near Exit B) and the Mutianyu Great Wall section.
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Cable car or toboggan ride up and down the Great Wall, providing a scenic and convenient way to access this iconic landmark.
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Motorcoach transportation between the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and other sites on the itinerary, allowing for a seamless flow between the tour’s highlights.
Guide Information

An experienced, English-speaking tour guide accompanies participants throughout the Beijing Layover Tour. They provide insightful commentary on the city’s iconic landmarks, sharing historical facts and cultural anecdotes.
The guide is adept at navigating the crowds and ensuring a smooth, seamless experience for all guests. Whether explaining the architectural marvels of the Forbidden City or leading the hike along the Mutianyu Great Wall, the tour guide’s expertise enhances the overall tour experience.
Their language fluency and deep knowledge of the local area make them an invaluable asset, enabling guests to maximize their limited time in Beijing and take away a rich understanding of the capital’s heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Available on Weekends?
The tour is available on weekends as it caters to layover travelers with limited time in Beijing. Participants can explore the Great Wall and Forbidden City during their layover period on any day of the week.
Can I Request a Different Language Guide?
Yes, the tour offers guides in both English and Chinese. Travelers can request a specific language preference when booking the tour, subject to availability. The guide will accommodate the preferred language during the tour.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Water?
Yes, participants can bring their own food and water on the tour. However, a lunch is already included in the tour package, so outside food and beverages are not required unless desired by the participant.
Is There a Discount for Students or Seniors?
The tour doesn’t offer any discounts for students or seniors. The pricing is set at a flat rate per person, regardless of age or student status. Customers should book the tour based on the standard listed price.
How Long Is the Transfer From the Airport to the Meeting Point?
The transfer from the airport to the meeting point takes an unspecified amount of time, as it depends on the airport location and traffic conditions. Participants can take a taxi or underground to reach the designated meeting spot.
The Sum Up
The Beijing Layover Tour of the Great Wall and Forbidden City offers an exceptional opportunity for travelers with limited time in the city. Priced at ¥6,308 per person, the tour provides a comprehensive experience, including airport pickup, private transportation, and an experienced English-speaking guide. Visitors can explore the iconic Mutianyu Great Wall and the historic Forbidden City, seeing China’s rich culture and history. The tour’s inclusions and participant guidelines ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for all.
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