Busda-e:Mutianyu Great Wall, Summer Palace&Old Summer Palace Tour

Traveling through Beijing offers a chance to see some of China’s most celebrated landmarks, from the majestic Great Wall to the tranquil gardens of the Summer Palace. This tour by Yida Travel packs a substantial punch for just $38.90 per person—offering a full day of sightseeing, historical insight, and scenic beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just eager to tick off bucket-list sights, this experience has plenty to offer.

What stands out most is the way this tour balances guided insight with flexible options. You’re not just stuck on a bus with a hurried schedule; instead, you get to explore at your own pace, with optional upgrades like cable cars, toboggans, and boat rides. However, be aware that some attractions are cash-only, especially at the Great Wall, so plan accordingly.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive yet affordable day out. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with a bit of walking, appreciate guided commentary, and enjoy making your own choices about optional activities. Let’s break down what makes this experience worth considering—and what you should keep in mind.

Key Points

• Value for Money: At just under $40, it offers a lot of sightseeing with included entry tickets.
• Flexible Options: You can choose to add cable cars, toboggans, and boat rides for a small extra fee.
• Expert Guidance: Guides are knowledgeable, sharing stories beyond just the facts, enhancing the experience.
• Balanced Itinerary: The tour covers three major sites, giving a well-rounded taste of Beijing’s history and landscape.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned bus makes the long travel time more pleasant.
• Limited Time at Each Site: With about 3-3.5 hours at each location, it’s ideal for a quick but meaningful visit.

Convenience and Booking

Starting at 7:30 am from a centrally located meeting point in Beijing, the tour is designed for early risers eager to maximize their day. Bookings are made on average 28 days in advance, which suggests good planning for most travelers. The process is straightforward—you simply show your reservation to the staff wearing a green vest, and you’re guided onto the bus.

The air-conditioned coach is a major plus, considering the 1.5-hour drive from the meeting point to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. This long journey allows you to relax, while your guide—whose name isn’t specified but whom some reviews describe as “friendly and informative”—shares tips for the day and explains how to purchase optional upgrades.

Mutianyu Great Wall: A Less Crowded Marvel

Arriving at Mutianyu, you’ll easily spot the ticket collection area—once you have your ticket, you can take the internal shuttle uphill, which many find convenient and time-saving. The site itself is celebrated for fewer crowds compared to Badaling, offering a more relaxed atmosphere for exploring the iconic structure.

The Great Wall at Mutianyu is a highlight, with options to ascend via cable car or toboggan, available at extra cost (140 RMB each). The cable car offers stunning aerial views of the hills, while the toboggan provides a fun, fast descent—popular among those who enjoy a small thrill. The site’s layout allows for scenic walks along restored sections, with some travelers noting the views of surrounding mountains as particularly breathtaking.

Guests often comment on the helpful staff and the ease of navigating this part of the tour. One reviewer mentioned, “The guide helped us with tickets, and the views from the top are truly unforgettable.” The 3-hour 30-minute stay ensures you won’t feel rushed, though it’s enough time to snap plenty of photos and soak in the landscape.

Summer Palace: A Reflection of Imperial Grandeur

Next, the group heads to the Summer Palace, where you’ll find a sprawling complex filled with historic buildings, lush gardens, and the famous Long Corridor covered in intricate paintings. Guided commentary here is insightful—your guide will share stories about Empress Dowager Cixi, who once ruled from this palace, and the luxurious lifestyle of China’s imperial family.

You’ll enjoy about 2.5 hours to explore the grounds, which is ample time to stroll along the water’s edge, visit the Marble Boat, and admire the architecture. One notable feature is the Imperial Ferry Boat across Kunming Lake—an optional experience costing 100 RMB, which many consider worth the extra for the chance to enjoy the views from the water.

The tour allows you to get a good sense of the palace’s grandeur, but travelers should remember that only the main entrance ticket is included. If you want to visit the Summer Palace’s interior exhibits or take the tour-boat, you’ll need to purchase those separately.

Old Summer Palace: The Ruins of Grandeur

The final stop is the Old Summer Palace (Yuanmingyuan), which was looted and burned during the Anglo-French Allied Forces’ invasion in 1860. Today, what remains are ruins that evoke a sense of lost splendor, set amidst large gardens and lakes. It’s a poignant reminder of history, and many visitors appreciate the opportunity to walk through the remaining structures and imagine the former magnificence.

The site offers a different experience from the Summer Palace—more reflective and less curated—making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts. The Yuanmingyuan Ruins Park allows for about 1.5 hours of exploration, which is enough to explore key ruins and enjoy the tranquil scenery.

Optional Extras and Practical Tips

While the core experience is well-covered, many of the optional activities hold extra costs—cable cars, toboggans, and boat rides—ranging from 80-140 RMB. Since the tour doesn’t include meals, you’ll want to pack snacks or plan to buy food during breaks.

A helpful tip from reviewers: credit cards aren’t widely accepted at the Great Wall, so carrying cash, Alipay, or WeChat Pay is recommended. The tour’s maximum group size of 47 travelers can feel lively but manageable, especially with attentive guides.

Overall Value and Suitability

Looking at the price and inclusions—transport, guides, and entry tickets—the value is clear. You get to see three major sites, enjoy a comfortable ride, and learn from knowledgeable guides. The flexibility to add optional upgrades also helps customize the day to your preferences.

However, the tight schedule means you won’t have time to linger at each location. If you’re looking for a more in-depth visit or want to enjoy each site at a leisurely pace, this might feel a bit rushed. But for those wanting a rundown without breaking the bank, this tour hits the right notes.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a cost-effective, hassle-free way to see key Beijing landmarks in one day. It’s great if you’re comfortable with walking, enjoy guided insights, and don’t mind optional extras costing extra. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the included tickets, while those seeking a quick yet meaningful experience will find it well suited.

If you’re short on time or prefer to avoid the hassle of organizing transportation and tickets yourself, this organized day trip offers convenience. It’s also suitable for first-time visitors who want a broad introduction to Beijing’s imperial history and awe-inspiring sights.

This tour delivers a balanced, engaging snapshot of Beijing’s most famous landmarks at an attractive price point. The combination of guided storytelling, flexible upgrade options, and comfortable transport makes it a practical choice for many travelers. The less crowded Mutianyu Great Wall is a real highlight, providing stunning views away from the hoards, while the Summer Palace offers a peaceful retreat into imperial splendor.

It’s an excellent choice for those who want a structured, informative day without fuss. While the schedule may feel a bit tight for those wanting to savor each site, the included tickets and guided insight make it a good value for budget travelers or first-timers.

For anyone seeking a well-rounded introduction to Beijing’s history, culture, and scenery, this tour ticks all the right boxes—especially with the added flexibility of optional upgrades for a personalized experience.

What is the meeting point for this tour?
The tour starts at a centrally located spot in Beijing, with the exact address being BXC99+GF8, Chaoyang, Beijing. It’s close to public transportation, making it accessible.

Are tickets included for all the attractions?
Yes, the tour includes entry tickets for the Great Wall at Mutianyu, the Summer Palace, and the Old Summer Palace’s main entrances.

Can I purchase optional activities on the day?
Yes, options like cable cars, toboggans, and boat rides can be bought on-site if you choose to enhance your experience.

What should I bring for the day?
Carry cash or mobile payment methods like Alipay or WeChat Pay for optional extras and small purchases. Also, pack comfortable shoes, water, and sun protection.

How long do we stay at each site?
Approximately 3 hours at Mutianyu, 2.5 hours at the Summer Palace, and 1.5 hours at the Old Summer Palace, which allows for a good overview without feeling rushed.

Is food included in this tour?
No, meals are not included, so you should bring snacks or plan to buy food during breaks.

This tour offers a practical, thoughtfully curated way to see some of Beijing’s top sights, all while staying within a reasonable budget. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, it’s a solid choice for a full day of exploration.