How to Plan Your 1-Day Beijing Layover Tour: Mutianyu Great Wall, Forbidden City & Airport Transfers

If you have a layover in Beijing, China and want to make the most of your time there, a 1-day private tour is the perfect solution. This tour will take you to some of the most famous attractions in Beijing, including the Mutianyu Great Wall and the Forbidden City. Plus, with convenient airport pickup and drop-off included, you won’t have to worry about transportation logistics. Here’s how to plan your 1-day Beijing layover tour:

Step 1: Book Your Tour

Visit the Viator website to book your tour. You’ll be able to select your pickup location, airport, and tour date.

Step 2: Choose Your Pickup Location and Time

When booking your tour, you’ll be given the option to select your pickup location and time. You can either choose to be picked up from Beijing Capital Airport (PEK) or Daxing Airport (PKX). The tour starts at 7:00 AM, so you’ll want to schedule your pickup accordingly.

Step 3: Enjoy Your Tour

On the day of your tour, your private guide and air-conditioned vehicle will pick you up from your selected location. You’ll then be taken to the Mutianyu Great Wall, where you can take a cable car or toboggan up to the top and admire the stunning views. After that, you’ll head to the Forbidden City, where you can explore the imperial palace and learn about Chinese history and culture. Lunch will be provided during the tour.

Step 4: Return to the Airport

After your tour is complete, your guide and driver will take you back to your selected airport, ensuring that you arrive with plenty of time to catch your connecting flight.

What’s Included

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Private car and private guide
• Entrance tickets for the Mutianyu Great Wall and Forbidden City
• Cable car and toboggan ride at the Great Wall
• Lunch

Additional Information

Here are a few things to keep in mind when booking your 1-day Beijing layover tour:

• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Not recommended for travelers with back problems
• Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
• Beijing has adopted a 144-hour visa-free transit policy for citizens of 53 countries/regions, including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Citizens of other countries/regions will need to apply for a visa in advance to join this tour.
• If you take a large amount of luggage, we recommend that you leave your big luggage at the luggage depository of the airport and carry a small bag during the Forbidden City and Great Wall private tour.

Cancellation Policy

If you need to cancel your tour, you can do so up to 24 hours before the start of the tour for a full refund.

Conclusion

By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to plan a 1-day Beijing layover tour that takes you to some of the most iconic sites in the city. With airport pickup and drop-off included, you won’t have to worry about navigating public transportation or finding a taxi. Book your tour today and make the most of your layover in Beijing!

Insider’s Guide to a 1-Day Beijing Layover Tour

If you have a long layover in Beijing, China, there is no need to spend your time feeling bored and restless. Instead, make the most of your layover by experiencing some of the city’s most iconic attractions. The city is home to some fascinating historic sites, must-try food spots, unique cultural experiences, and much more. Let’s dive into this insider’s guide to making the most of your layover tour in Beijing.

Must-Visit Attractions

With only a day to explore Beijing, you want to make sure you prioritize visiting the top attractions. Here are some must-visit sites that you cannot miss:

– Mutianyu Great Wall: This iconic destination is a little farther from the airport, but it’s definitely worth the visit. This section of the wall is less crowded than some of the other ones, and it offers incredible views of the surrounding landscape.

– Forbidden City: This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous landmarks in Beijing. It gives you a glimpse into the country’s rich history and allows you to learn more about the imperial past of China.

Dining Spots to Check Out

Beijing is famous for its rich culinary culture, and there are many restaurants and street food spots to try. Here are some must-visit places during your layover:

– Peking Duck: This classic Beijing dish is a must-try. Head to Quanjude Roast Duck Restaurant for some of the best Peking Duck in the city.

– Jiumen Xiaochi: This is a great place to try a variety of local snacks, such as dumplings, noodles, and stuffed buns.

Cultural Experiences

Beijing is full of cultural experiences that can add a unique flavor to your day. Check out some of these places to learn more about Beijing’s culture:

– Temple of Heaven: This temple was constructed in the early 15th century and was used by the emperor for annual prayer ceremonies. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous landmarks in the city.

– Beijing Hutongs: Exploring the city’s many Hutongs, or alleyways, can be a unique cultural experience. These areas are full of history and give you a glimpse of traditional old Beijing.

Local History

Beijing is full of history, and there are several places to explore if you are interested in learning more about the city’s past:

– Tiananmen Square: This is the largest public square in the world and another UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has featured in countless events throughout Chinese history.

– Summer Palace:  This site was an imperial garden in the Qing dynasty, and it is now a popular tourist destination. It includes beautiful gardens, lakes, and palaces, as well as a rich history dating back to 1750.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you have some extra time and want to explore Beijing beyond the usual tourist spots, consider checking out some off-the-beaten-path destinations:

– 798 Art District: This is a unique area of the city for modern and contemporary art. It is full of galleries, shops, cafes, and even graffiti walls.

– Fragrant Hills Park: This park is home to the famous Fragrant Hills Pagoda, which is surrounded by stunning fall foliage and offers impressive views of the city.

A Final Note on Getting Around

When it comes to getting around Beijing, it’s important to have a plan in place. If you are short on time, the easiest way to explore the city is to hire a private driver or book a tour to make the most of your Beijing layover tour. Whatever you choose, make sure to factor in enough time for travel to and from the airport.

With a little planning, you can have a fantastic layover tour of Beijing and experience the city’s history, culture, and cuisine. Follow this insider’s guide, and you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable single-day exploration of this vibrant city.