China's Great Wall Tours: Your Guide to Iconic Experiences
Discover the majesty of China's Great Wall with expertly curated tours, offering diverse routes and immersive historical insights.
Stretching for thousands of miles across dramatic landscapes, China's Great Wall is a testament to human ambition and a symbol of enduring history. These iconic fortifications, built over centuries, offer a profound connection to the past, allowing visitors to walk in the footsteps of ancient soldiers and emperors. Exploring the Great Wall is more than just a sightseeing trip; it's an immersion into a landscape that has witnessed the ebb and flow of empires, providing breathtaking panoramas and a deep appreciation for one of humanity's most remarkable achievements. Great Wall tours cater to every type of traveler, from those seeking a glimpse of this wonder on a short excursion from Beijing to adventurers embarking on multi-day treks along less-restored sections. Whether you envision standing on a perfectly preserved rampart overlooking rolling hills or exploring a wild, overgrown stretch, there's a tour designed to meet your expectations. These curated experiences often include expert guides who bring the history to life, transportation from major cities, and a chance to understand the Wall's strategic importance and cultural significance, making your visit both informative and awe-inspiring.
Featured Great Wall Tours Tours
Discover our top picks for great wall tours in China
Beat the crowds by purchasing the Badaling Great Wall tickets in advance. Guarantee your entry as the Badaling Great Wall allows only 65,000 visitors a day. Free change and cancellation as long as you send the request before deadline.
1.Exclusive VIP parking lot for the BusDa guests, offering more convenient travel experiences for international Travelers. 2.Free access to the Badaling Ancient Great Wall is provided (ticket price: 54 RMB per person, Complementary from BusDa). The Badaling Ancient Great Wall offers beautiful scenery with fewer people and is the most original ancient Great Wall. 3.Visit the Badaling Great Wall, which is most popular among Chinese guests. It is spectacular but relatively crowded. BusDa guests can avoid the crowds by using the Badaling Great Wall VIP passage (market price: 208 yuan per person,Complementary from BusDa), and take photos at the Hero Slab. 4.Tourists can enjoy the beautiful scenery of two sections of the Great Wall in one day, including the Badaling Great Wall, which is most popular among Chinese people, and the original ancient Great Wall with fewer people but beautiful scenery.
Join this one-of-a-kind full-day bus tour and experience two sides of the Great Wall in a single day — the wild, untouched Ancient Great Wall of Badaling and the iconic, well-preserved Badaling Great Wall. Unlike standard city tours or typical sightseeing tours, this itinerary offers a rare combination: the original raw beauty of the unrestored section, perfect for hikers and adventurers, and the majestic charm of the most famous and accessible part of the Wall. Operated as part of our exclusive private and luxury and bus tours range, this journey is not available in regular car tours, half-day tours, or layover tours. It’s an immersive experience for those who seek both authenticity and comfort. Ideal for history lovers and cultural explorers, this private sightseeing tour alternative reveals the true diversity of the Great Wall in a single unforgettable day. No shopping, no scams — just pure discovery.
Visit the No.1 World Unesco Heritage of China— The Mutianyu Great wall. It offers epic views over Yanshan mountain. While the fee to enter is tiny, the ticket line can be a real inconvenience, particularly in Beijing’s chilly winters and scalding summers 1: Prebook to save time and stress 2: Experience historic Mutianyu Great Wall, with its beautiful mountain, at your own pace 3: Scan your passport to enter the Great Wall 4: Visit at a time that suits you—morning or afternoon.
Take a hike at the Badaling Great Wall of China. This 6-hour guided tour will give you a complete and memorable time in Beijing.
Discover the Badaling Great Wall, where breathtaking mountain views, rich history, and cultural charm create an unforgettable journey through China’s ancient heritage.
Explore the awe-inspiring history and beauty of China’s Badaling and Ancient Great Wall on this full-day tour with BusDa. Begin your journey at Badaling, the most famous and accessible section of the Great Wall, renowned for its well-preserved architecture and breathtaking panoramic views. After enjoying the grandeur of Badaling, continue to the Ancient Great Wall, a quieter, less-visited section where rugged pathways and original watchtowers offer a more authentic glimpse into the Wall’s history. With BusDa’s air-conditioned transport, knowledgeable guide, and carefully planned itinerary, you’ll experience a no-shopping, no-detour, no-hidden-cost tour focused entirely on exploration and discovery. Whether in a small group or private setting, this journey provides an unforgettable opportunity to immerse yourself in the history, culture, and grandeur of China’s most celebrated landmark.
One-stop direct service includes round-trip transportation, scenic area shuttle fees, admission tickets, and no shopping。
Experience the majesty of China’s Great Wall with BusDa’s Ancient Great Wall & Badaling Great Wall Tours. Designed for comfort and convenience, this tour offers both group bus and private car options, giving you flexibility to explore at your own pace. Departing from a convenient meeting point, you will travel in clean, air-conditioned vehicles accompanied by a professional English-speaking guide who brings the Wall’s history, legends, and architectural marvels to life. Walk along the well-preserved sections of the Great Wall, admire stunning vistas, and capture unforgettable photographs. With no shopping stops, no detours, and no hidden fees, this tour focuses entirely on your experience. Whether you seek a lively group atmosphere or private, personalized attention, BusDa ensures a seamless, enriching visit to one of China’s most iconic landmarks, combining the ancient charm and scenic beauty of the Great Wall in a single, memorable day.
This is a private transport service. Your driver will come to your hotel or airport pick you up in the morning to the famous Jiankou and Mutianyu Great Wall. Your driver will also assist you with entrance ticket purchasing and show you the direction. After your Great Wall Tour, you will be transfer back to your hotel or airport. This is a No Shopping tour, and you can 100% enjoy your hiking time on the Great Wall.
The Mutianyu Great Wall is a renowned section of the Ming Great Wall, located in Mutianyu Village, Bohai Town, Huairou District, Beijing, about 73 kilometers away from the urban area of Beijing. It is famous for its unique architectural style, magnificent natural scenery and profound historical and cultural heritage.
Having a wonderful Great Wall tour is a must for one’s China trip, and Beijing is the best destination to admire the Great Wall. This bus tour takes you to visit the Mutianyu Great Wall only, so you will spend enough time there for an in-depth visit. Mutianyu is one of the best-preserved and best-known Great Wall section, less crowded and a good destination on hot holidays for a Great Wall tour at ease.
Roll up, roll up – are you ready to unveil the mysterious Great Wall of China? This group tour takes you half-day to bridge the gap between dreams and reality about Great Wall. We choose one of the best-preserved sections – MuTianYu Great Wall for you. Accompanied by your guide, you will hike the Great Wall seeing the sublime scenery and listening to the appealing legends that happened on the on it.
This group day tour is available daily all the year round. Each morning, you will be picked up from your midtown hotel, then you will go visit the major attractions together with other tourists. Groups are kept to about 20-40 passengers in an air-conditioned coach or van with a professional Beijing chauffeur and a licensed Beijing English speaking tour guide on board who will pass on their knowledge of the sites including facts, stories and local information. 1. This is a non-shopping tour without hidden prices. 2. On the evening before your tour departure early next morning, you will get a call to your hotel room or message at your hotel front desk from your guide to reconfirm pickup time which is normally set around 6:00am. 3. If you stay in a hutong hotel in a narrow lane, please walk a few steps and wait for our bus parking on a main street. 4. We offer complimentary pick up service from your hotel located within the Second Ring Road in Beijing.
The Mutianyu section is the most beautiful and classic part of the Great Wall, and it's usually less crowed. This is a small group tour with round trip hotel pickup and drop off service, and lunch and entrance ticket are available to puchase in advance. If you want to meet some new friends and see the Great Wall during your trip in Beijing, this is a suitable tour for you.
Why Choose Great Wall Tours in China?
Iconic UNESCO Site
Visit one of the most recognizable and historically significant landmarks in the world, a true marvel of engineering and human endeavor.
Diverse Sections
Experience various sections of the Wall, from restored marvels like Mutianyu to wilder, more rugged sections offering different perspectives.
Expert Guidance
Benefit from knowledgeable guides who share fascinating historical context, local stories, and cultural insights.
Convenient Logistics
Tours typically include comfortable transportation, often from major city centers like Beijing, simplifying your journey.
Breathtaking Vistas
Enjoy unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, a reward for your exploration.
Photographic Opportunities
Capture unforgettable images of this immense structure winding across varied terrains.
Types of Great Wall Tours in China
Classic Section Tours (e.g., Mutianyu, Badaling)
These popular tours focus on the most well-preserved and accessible sections of the Great Wall, offering a comfortable experience for most visitors. They are ideal for a first-time visit and typically include round-trip transportation and sometimes cable car access.
Hiking and Trekking Tours
For those seeking a more active adventure, these tours explore sections known for their hiking opportunities, including some wild and unrestored areas. Expect challenging terrain and longer durations, rewarding you with a more intimate connection with the Wall and its surroundings.
Multi-Day and Immersive Tours
These extended tours offer a deeper dive into the Great Wall's history and significance, often combining visits to multiple sections with cultural experiences and overnight stays. They provide a comprehensive understanding and a chance to see less-visited parts of this colossal structure.
Photography Tours
Designed for photography enthusiasts, these tours focus on capturing the most scenic and dramatic views of the Great Wall, often at optimal times of day like sunrise or sunset. They prioritize the best vantage points and photo opportunities.
What to Expect on Great Wall Tours
Duration
Tours typically range from half-day excursions (4-6 hours) to full-day trips (8-10 hours). Multi-day tours can last from 2 to 5 days, allowing for extensive exploration.
Weather
Weather can vary significantly. Summers (June-August) are hot and humid, while winters (December-February) are cold and dry. Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) offer pleasant temperatures and clear skies, often considered the best times to visit.
Group Size
Group sizes vary from small, intimate groups of 6-10 people to larger tours with 20-40 participants. Private tours offer a personalized experience for individuals or small parties.
What's Typically Included
Most tours include transportation from a designated meeting point, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees to the Wall section, and often lunch. Some may include cable car or toboggan rides.
Meeting Point
Tours generally depart from major hotels in Beijing or designated central meeting points. Specific details will be provided upon booking, and clear instructions are usually given for easy location.
Additional Costs
Be prepared for potential extra costs like tips for guides and drivers, personal expenses, snacks, drinks, and optional activities not listed in the tour itinerary. Some sections may have separate charges for cable cars or toboggan rides.
Expert Tips for the Best Experience
Book in advance, especially during peak season (spring and autumn) and public holidays, to secure your preferred tour and dates.
Wear comfortable walking shoes. You'll be doing a lot of walking, often on uneven or steep terrain, regardless of the section.
Dress in layers. The weather on the Wall can change rapidly, and temperatures can differ from the city. Always check the forecast.
Bring sun protection: a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential, even on cloudy days, due to the exposed nature of the Wall.
Stay hydrated. Carry a reusable water bottle, as purchasing water on the Wall can be expensive. Many tours provide bottled water.
Consider visiting less crowded sections like Jinshanling or Jiankou for a more authentic and tranquil experience, though these may require more strenuous hiking.
Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases. While guides will be fluent, knowing 'hello' (ni hao) and 'thank you' (xie xie) is always appreciated.
Check the specific section details carefully. Mutianyu is known for its lush scenery and watchtowers, while Jinshanling offers a more rugged, authentic feel with stunning views.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:Which section of the Great Wall is best to visit?
A: The 'best' section depends on your priorities. Mutianyu is popular for its beauty and accessibility, offering cable cars. Badaling is the most famous but can be very crowded. Jinshanling provides a more rugged, less restored experience for hikers, while Jiankou is for the truly adventurous seeking wild, unrestored Wall.
Q:How long does it take to get to the Great Wall from Beijing?
A: Travel time varies by section. Badaling and Mutianyu are about 1.5 to 2 hours away by car or bus. Jinshanling is further, typically 2.5 to 3 hours. Some tours might use high-speed trains for certain sections.
Q:What should I wear on a Great Wall tour?
A: Comfort is key. Wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots. Dress in layers; lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal, and bring a jacket or windbreaker as it can be breezy. A hat and sunglasses are also recommended.
Q:Can I visit the Great Wall in the winter?
A: Yes, you can visit the Great Wall in winter. While it will be cold, the scenery can be beautiful, with snow adding a unique charm to the landscape. Some sections might be less accessible due to ice, but maintained sections like Mutianyu are usually open.
Q:Are there restrooms available at the Great Wall?
A: Yes, most popular sections of the Great Wall have restrooms available, particularly near the entrances, parking lots, and ticket booths. They can vary in cleanliness, so it's always good to be prepared.
Q:Is it possible to hike from one section of the Great Wall to another?
A: While some adventurous hikers attempt this, it's generally not recommended for standard tours. Sections are spread out, and some are 'wild' or completely collapsed. Guided multi-day tours might connect specific adjacent sections, but it's not a casual undertaking.
Q:What is the best time of year to visit the Great Wall?
A: Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) are generally considered the best times to visit the Great Wall. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures, clear skies, and beautiful scenery, making for a more comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Q:Do I need to be very fit to visit the Great Wall?
A: It depends on the section. For well-preserved sections like Mutianyu with cable car access, moderate fitness is sufficient. For hiking tours or wilder sections like Jinshanling or Jiankou, a good level of fitness is required due to steep climbs and uneven terrain.
Why Visit China?
Discover ancient wonders like the Great Wall, a testament to millennia of human ingenuity.
Experience vibrant city life in Shanghai, a dazzling blend of tradition and modernity.
Savor authentic Chinese cuisine, from spicy Sichuan dishes to delicate Cantonese dim sum.
Explore the Terracotta Army, an unparalleled archaeological marvel near Xi'an.
Witness the breathtaking karst landscapes of Guilin and the Li River.
Immerse yourself in rich cultural heritage and diverse regional traditions.
Best Time to Visit
Weather
China boasts a vast and diverse climate. Northern regions experience cold, dry winters and hot summers, while the south is more subtropical with humid summers and milder winters. Coastal areas are generally more temperate, and western China can have arid or mountainous climates.
Best Months
Spring (April to May) and Autumn (September to October) are generally the best months to visit China, offering pleasant temperatures and less rainfall across much of the country.
Peak Season
Peak season typically falls during summer months (June to August) and major national holidays like the Golden Weeks (early May and early October), characterized by warm weather but also larger crowds and higher prices.
Off Season
The off-season, primarily winter (November to March), offers fewer crowds and lower prices, though temperatures can be very cold in many popular tourist areas, especially in the north.
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Plan Your China Trip
Transportation Tips
Getting around China is surprisingly efficient. High-speed rail connects major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi'an with impressive speed and comfort, often costing between $50-$150 for inter-city journeys. Within cities, subways are extensive and affordable, typically costing less than $1 per ride. Taxis and ride-sharing apps like Didi are also readily available and reasonably priced. For shorter distances or a more local feel, consider renting a bike in some cities. Navigating China offers a modern and convenient travel experience.
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