How to Plan Your Badaling Great Wall & Ming Tomb Full-Day Tour in Beijing

If you’re planning a trip to Beijing, then you can’t miss out on a visit to the Great Wall of China. One of the most popular sections of the wall is Badaling, and the best way to see this world-famous landmark is with a full-day tour that includes a visit to the Ming Tomb. In this guide, we’ll take you through all the steps you need to plan your Badaling Great Wall & Ming Tomb full-day tour in Beijing.

Step 1: Book Your Tour

The first step to planning your tour is to book it. You can do this online at the Get Your Guide website. The Badaling Great Wall & Ming Tomb Full-Day Tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off (within 2 Ring Road in Beijing), entrance fees, lunch, afternoon tea, driver/guide, local guide, transport by air-conditioned coach, travel insurance, souvenir photos (available for purchase), and cable car charge. Don’t forget to use the following HTML link to book your tour: book the tour here.

Step 2: Prepare for Your Tour

Once you’ve booked your tour, it’s time to prepare for your day out. Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of walking, and if you’re visiting during the summer months, make sure you bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the Great Wall.

Step 3: Hotel Pick-Up

Your tour will start with a hotel pick-up between 6:30 and 7:00 AM, so make sure you’re ready on time. The tour operator will pick you up from your hotel located within the second ring road of Beijing.

Step 4: Ming Tomb

On your way to the Great Wall, you’ll visit the Ming Tomb, which is located 55 miles away from downtown Beijing and requires about an hour of driving. The tomb is the final resting place of the Emperor Wanli, who ruled from 1572 to 1620, and his two empresses.

Step 5: Lunch at the Jade Gallery

After visiting the Ming Tomb, you’ll stop for lunch at the restaurant inside the Jade Gallery. Enjoy a traditional Chinese meal before continuing on to the Great Wall.

Step 6: Badaling Great Wall

The highlight of your day will be a visit to the Badaling Great Wall. This section of the wall is the most visited and well-preserved, and it’s one of the few sections that has a cable car to take you up to the wall (included in your tour price). Once up on the wall, you can hike at your own pace and take in the stunning scenery. Don’t forget to take plenty of photos to remember your day out.

Step 7: Afternoon Tea

After your visit to the Great Wall, you’ll have afternoon tea before heading back to your hotel. This is a great time to relax and reflect on your day out.

Step 8: Hotel Drop-Off

Once the tour is over, the operator will drop you off at your hotel within the second ring road of Beijing. Don’t forget to thank your driver/guide and local guide for a wonderful day out.

Conclusion

This Badaling Great Wall & Ming Tomb full-day tour in Beijing is an excellent way to see two of the city’s top highlights. With hotel pick-up and drop-off, entrance fees, lunch, and transport included, all you need to do is relax and enjoy the experience. Just remember to book your tour in advance and prepare for a day of walking and sightseeing.

Insider’s Guide to Beijing, China

Beijing is a city that is brimming with history, culture, and vibrant experiences that any traveler would love to sink their teeth into. From the iconic Great Wall of China to the traditional cuisine served in street-side food stalls, Beijing presents an array of attractions that will leave a lasting impression on any visitor. In this insider’s guide, we’ll explore the city’s most noteworthy highlights and exclusive experiences for an unforgettable trip.

Attractions

1. The Great Wall of China – A visit to Beijing would not be complete without walking on the Great Wall. Badaling is one of the most famous sections of the Great Wall and is easily accessible from Beijing. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water as it can be a demanding climb.

2. The Forbidden City – This 15th-century imperial palace once housed emperors and their families during China’s Ming and Qing dynasties. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features over 8,000 rooms filled with stunning artwork and architecture.

3. The Temple of Heaven – Another UNESCO World Heritage site, The Temple of Heaven is a magnificent example of Ming Dynasty architecture. Visitors can marvel at the intricate layout, offering halls, bridges, and altars as they learn about the history and rituals associated with this fascinating structure.

Dining

1. Donghuamen Night Market – This bustling night market features an array of exotic cuisine and traditional snacks that adventurous eaters will surely enjoy. Popular dishes include stinky tofu, fried scorpions, and grilled meats on skewers.

2. Peking Roast Duck – A signature dish of Beijing, Peking roast duck is a must-try when visiting the city. Crispy, succulent duck skin is wrapped up in a pancake accompanied by hoisin sauce, spring onions, and cucumber, resulting in a delicious and unforgettable dish.

Cultural Experiences

1. Chinese Opera – Catch a traditional Chinese opera performance at the Liyuan Theatre. The theatre features English subtitles, allowing visitors to better understand the performance.

2. Tai Chi lessons – Learn the art of Tai Chi from a trained instructor at one of Beijing’s parks. This low-impact exercise is excellent for maintaining flexibility and balance while also teaching mindfulness and relaxation.

Local History

1. The Summer Palace – This magnificent summer retreat was once the playground of Chinese royalty and is now open for visitors. The palace features grand halls, picturesque gardens, and pavilions dating back to the 18th century.

2. The Ming Tombs – Located in a lush valley, the Ming Tombs are a historical site with imperial burial chambers that belong to the Ming dynasty’s 13 emperors. Visitors can explore a portion of the tombs and experience China’s rich imperial history.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

1. 798 Art District – This artistic community that once used to be a factory district now features galleries, cafes, and quirky shops. This unique location provides a fantastic glimpse into modern Beijing’s art scene.

2. Hutongs – These alleyways are a window into the old-world Beijing. Strolling through these narrow streets will take you back in time and provide an exclusive experience in China’s bustling capital city.

In conclusion, Beijing is a fascinating city with a rich cultural heritage that provides many unique experiences for the avid traveler. The list above is just the tip of the iceberg, making it easy to fall in love with this buzzing metropolis, its people, and its food.