Beijing: Mutianyu Great Wall & Summer Palace Scenic Bus Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Beijing and want a hassle-free way to see two of the city’s top attractions, this guided bus tour might just be the perfect fit. It offers a blend of comfort, expert guidance, and culture—all packed into a single day.

What stands out most are the priority fast-track entry, the relaxing exclusive lounge, and the authentic regional buffet lunch. Plus, the tour’s comprehensive approach—covering the Great Wall at Mutianyu and the Summer Palace—means you get to experience both ancient marvels and imperial gardens without the stress of planning each detail yourself.

One thing to consider is that additional costs for optional activities like the cable car or toboggan rides aren’t included, so if you’re eager to zip up the wall in style, you’ll need to budget for that. This tour suits those who prefer a well-organized, informative, and comfortable day with plenty of expert insights and a chance to skip lines. It’s especially good for first-timers or travelers who want a seamless, educational experience.

Key Points

• Skip the lines with priority fast-track entry at the Great Wall, saving valuable time.
• Comfortable facilities include an exclusive lounge and a countryside buffet lunch.
• Expertly guided tours in multiple languages enhance understanding and enjoyment.
• Flexible exploration at the Great Wall with 3-4 hours of free time.
• Additional activities like cable car rides are available for purchase on-site.
• Visiting two major sites—the Great Wall and Summer Palace—provides a well-rounded experience.
• Convenient transportation ensures a smooth journey from Beijing.
• Authentic local cuisine and scenic views add to the overall value.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Convenient Departure and Meeting Point

The tour kicks off early at 7:30 AM, with multiple meeting points in Beijing, including the busy Dongzhimen Subway Station. The simplicity of the meeting process, with staff in red vests guiding you, ensures you’ll be on your way without fuss. Reaching the starting location via Metro Line 2, Line 13, or Airport Express makes it accessible for most travelers.

Smooth and Comfortable Transportation

The 1.5-hour bus ride from Beijing to Mutianyu is a highlight itself, allowing you to settle in and soak up some introductory insights from your guide. Reviews consistently mention the comfortable shuttle bus, making the journey enjoyable rather than tedious. Guests appreciated the smooth ride and appreciated the friendly assistance from guides like Kevin and Jily, who made the trip engaging.

Mutianyu Great Wall: A Timeless Wonder

Upon arrival at Mutianyu, you’ll collect your tickets at the visitor center and take a scenic shuttle bus up the mountain. The walk up to the wall is straightforward, and for those who want to save energy or enjoy views, optional cable cars or toboggans can be purchased on-site—though these aren’t included in the package.

You’ll enjoy around 3-4 hours of free time to explore this section of the Wall at your own pace. Reviewers highlight that the Wall itself is a “living masterpiece” with breathtaking vistas of forests and mountains, perfect for photos and quiet reflection. The absence of large crowds, especially in winter, offers a more intimate experience, as one traveler from Poland noted, “the peace and quiet—no pushing, no loud crowds, just the wind and the mountains.”

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Exclusive Rest Area and Delicious Buffet

Back at the visitor center, guests can unwind in an exclusive lounge with complimentary tea, snacks, and fruits. Those who opt for the buffet lunch will enjoy a hearty countryside-style meal at the Great Wall View Restaurant, with stunning vistas to complement the flavors. It’s a thoughtful touch that adds value, especially considering how busy and crowded the Wall can get elsewhere.

Exploring the Summer Palace

The tour continues with a scenic drive to the Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning gardens and tranquil waters. The guided tour lasts around 2 hours, during which you’ll stroll along Kunming Lake, admire the Seventeen-Arch Bridge, and learn about the imperial history from your guides.

The reviews praise guides like Claire for their helpfulness and ability to make history accessible. The leisurely pace and lush scenery make this part of the trip relaxing and visually rewarding. Expect plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to learn about Chinese imperial architecture and garden design.

Final Stop at the Olympic Park

The last leg of the tour takes you to Beijing’s Olympic Green, home of the iconic Bird’s Nest Stadium and the Water Cube. While not a guided tour of the facilities, it’s a great photo stop, and you’ll have some free time to explore or simply admire the architecture before heading back.

Practical Details and Tips

How the Day Unfolds

• The tour departs early, around 7:30 AM, with multiple pickup options.
• Expect a 1.5-hour bus ride to Mutianyu, with insightful commentary from your guide.
• You’ll spend about 3-4 hours exploring the Wall, with optional rides available.
• After returning to the visitor center for snacks and rest, you’ll head to the Summer Palace.
• The day concludes with a short drive to the Olympic Park, giving you a well-rounded glimpse of Beijing.

Transportation and Comfort

The bus is described as comfortable and well-organized, with friendly guides like John and Kevin, who are praised for their knowledge and attentiveness. The group sizes are manageable, allowing for personalized attention and easy movement.

Cost and Value

While the tour’s base price covers transportation, entrance tickets, and guided commentary, extras like cable cars or toboggans come at additional cost. Reviewers mention paying around 15 euros for a cable car ride, which some found worthwhile for the stunning ascent. With the included buffet lunch, lounge access, and skipping long lines, the overall value is high—especially for first-time visitors or those short on time.

What Travelers Loved

• Knowledgeable guides like Jily, Claire, and Kevin made history come alive, explaining complex stories in an accessible way.
• The quiet, scenic sections of the Wall provided a different experience from crowded tourist spots.
• The comfort and convenience of the exclusive lounge and organized itinerary reduced stress for travelers.
• The authentic local cuisine at the buffet offered a satisfying break, with many reviewers describing it as hearty and flavorful.

Notable Considerations

• The extra fee for cable cars and toboggans might surprise some travelers, so budget accordingly.
• The duration of the tour (8-10 hours) is quite full, so it suits those comfortable with a busy day.
• If you’re interested in visiting the Wall in particular for the spectacular views, winter visits tend to be less crowded, but check the weather to avoid snow or slippery paths.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a structured, guided day that hits all the major highlights without the hassle of planning logistics. It’s perfect for first-time visitors, families, or anyone looking for a comfortable, educational journey with plenty of authentic moments.

It also suits those who appreciate good value for money, as the tour includes transport, entrance fees, and lunch, making it easier to budget. If you’re keen on skipping lines, avoiding crowds, and learning from passionate guides, this is a reliable option.

FAQ

How do I meet the tour?
You can meet the tour at one of four starting points around Beijing, including Dongzhimen Subway Station, with staff in red vests guiding you to the bus.

What time does the tour start?
The tour departs daily at 7:30 AM, so plan to arrive a little earlier for check-in.

How long is the bus ride?
The journey to Mutianyu takes approximately 1.5 hours, providing a comfortable ride with insights from your guide.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, optional activities like cable car rides or toboggans require extra payment on-site—roughly 15 euros for a round-trip cable car.

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers transportation, entrance tickets, a professional guide, access to the exclusive lounge, and a countryside buffet lunch if selected.

How much free time do I get?
At Mutianyu, you’ll have around 3-4 hours to explore the Wall at your own pace, which is ample for photos, walking, or relaxing.

Can I use the cable car?
Yes, but it’s an optional extra. You should plan to buy your ticket on-site if you want to ride.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, along with your passport or ID for entry. The tour is in English, Spanish, or Russian, depending on your booking.

Is this tour suitable in winter?
Yes, many travelers enjoy visiting in winter for fewer crowds and snow-covered scenery, but be prepared for cold weather and potential slippery paths.

Final Thoughts

If you want a well-organized, educational day with minimal hassle, this Beijing: Mutianyu Great Wall & Summer Palace Scenic Bus Tour delivers excellent value. The expert guides ensure you gain meaningful insights, while the comfortable facilities and carefully curated itinerary make for a smooth experience.

You’ll love the chance to skip the lines and explore two of Beijing’s most iconic sites at your own pace, with lots of scenic moments and cultural stories along the way. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a first-time visitor, or simply seeking a stress-free adventure, this tour offers a practical and memorable way to experience Beijing’s highlights.

For travelers who prefer comfort without sacrificing authenticity, and value guided expertise, this experience is hard to beat. Just be mindful of extra costs for optional rides, and prepare for a full but rewarding day of sightseeing.

This tour is a fantastic choice for those wanting a comprehensive, comfortable, and culturally enriching day in Beijing.

You can check availability for your dates here: