Great Wall Day Trip from Beijing: Transport, Tickets & Itinerary

As a world cultural heritage and symbol of China, the Great Wall near Beijing offers an unforgettable day trip experience . Whether you seek bustling iconic sites or serene ancient sections, this guide covers all essentials—transport, tickets and itineraries—to make your trip smooth and memorable.

Top Great Wall Sections for Day Trips

• Badaling Great Wall: The most famous section with well-developed facilities, ideal for families and first-time visitors . Don’t miss the “Hero Slope” and North Eight Tower for panoramic views .
• Mutianyu Great Wall: Boasts 90% vegetation coverage and fewer crowds, known as “the most beautiful Great Wall” . Its three connected watchtowers and cable car rides add unique charm .
• Jinshanling Great Wall: A peaceful, rugged section perfect for hikers and photographers, with well-preserved Ming Dynasty architecture .

Convenient Transport from Beijing

• High-speed Rail: Fastest option—30 mins from Beijing North/Qinghe Station to Badaling; 1 hour to Huairou South for Mutianyu .
• Bus/Shuttle: 877 bus (13 yuan) 直达 Badaling; direct shuttles from downtown with round-trip fares around 80 yuan .
• Self-driving: 1.5-3 hours via G6/G45 highways, with parking fees 15-20 yuan/day .

Ticket Information & Practical Tips (2026 Updated)

• Ticket Prices: Badaling (35-40 yuan), Mutianyu (45 yuan), Jinshanling (65 yuan) . Students, seniors and military personnel enjoy discounts or free entry .
• Booking: Reserve tickets online in advance via official mini-programs, especially during peak seasons .
• Opening Hours: 6:30-18:00 (peak); 7:30-17:30 (off-peak) .

Recommended Day Trip Itineraries

• Family-Friendly (Badaling): 8:00 Depart by shuttle → 9:30 Cable car up to North Seven Tower → 12:00 Lunch at scenic area → 14:00 Visit Great Wall Museum → 16:00 Return.
• Scenic & Leisure (Mutianyu): 7:30 High-speed rail to Huairou → 9:00 Cable car to 14th Watchtower → Hike to 18th Tower → 12:30 Try local trout → 15:00 Return by shuttle.
• Hiker’s Choice (Jinshanling): 6:00 Early departure → 8:30 Hike from Zhuadoukou to Xiaojinshan Tower → 12:00 Picnic with mountain views → 14:00 Explore unrestored sections → 16:00 Head back .

Final Tips for a Great Trip

Wear comfortable hiking shoes and layered clothing . Bring water, snacks and sunscreen . Respect cultural relics—do not carve or litter . For a unique experience, try Badaling’s night tour with illuminated views .