Beijing Ancient Great Wall &Badaling Great Wall Full-day Bus Tour

Experience the Magnificence of Beijing’s Great Wall with the Beijing Ancient & Badaling Tour

If you’re eyeing a day trip to one of the world’s most iconic structures, this Beijing Ancient Great Wall & Badaling Great Wall Full-day Bus Tour offers a balanced mix of popular sights and quieter spots. While we haven’t done it ourselves, it’s clear that this tour packs in a lot of value for the price — only $20 per person — and provides a smooth, organized way to tick a major bucket-list item off your travel list.

What we love about this experience? First, the VIP parking and exclusive access mean you avoid the hassle of fighting for space or long queues. Second, the chance to see two different sections of the Great Wall in one day—the bustling Badaling and the more original, less crowded ancient section—is a treat for history lovers and photographers. Lastly, professional guides like Betty, Amy, and Ding make a big difference, offering insights and making sure you get the most out of your visit.

One thing to consider: the tour involves quite a bit of walking and some hiking, so comfortable shoes are a must. Also, since the Great Wall is a busy tourist site, patience and flexibility help, especially if you want to avoid the crowds or take your time at each spot. This tour is ideal if you’re looking for an affordable, well-organized day exploring China’s most famous monument with knowledgeable guides and good access.

Who is this tour best for? It’s perfect for travelers on a budget, first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive experience, history enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see the Great Wall with less stress and more insight.

Key Points

• Affordable price point at just $20 per person offers excellent value for a full-day guided experience.
• VIP access and free tickets for the main attractions (including the VIP passage at Badaling) minimize waiting and crowds.
• Two sections of the Great Wall—Badaling and the ancient, weathered segment—offer a variety of scenery and history.
• Comfortable, air-conditioned transportation helps make the long drive more enjoyable.
• Highly praised guides like Betty, Amy, and Ding enhance the experience with their knowledge and friendliness.
• Clear logistics with straightforward meeting points and timings make the day stress-free.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

The Meeting Point and Departure

Starting from a centrally located spot in Chaoyang at 10:00 am, the tour begins with a quick check-in by showing your reservation to the staff in green vests bearing the BusDa logo. This simple start sets the tone for a well-organized day. The air-conditioned bus ride to Badaling takes around 1.5 hours, which is just enough time to settle in, enjoy some commentary from your guide, and get a sneak peek of what’s ahead.

The First Stop: Badaling Great Wall

Once at Badaling, the experience kicks off with options. You can choose between the North-line or South-line tour, depending on your fitness level or curiosity. The main section is famous for its grandeur and accessibility, making it popular among Chinese visitors and international travelers alike. Here, you’ll get around 2 hours of exploration, which is ample time to walk along the ramparts, snap photos, and soak in the panoramic views.

The VIP access here allows you to bypass long lines and head straight to the Hero Slab, one of the iconic photo spots. The ticket price (54 RMB) is covered as part of this tour, which adds real value. For those wanting an extra thrill, the optional cable car can whisk you to the top or down again, providing a different perspective and saving energy for more walking.

The Hidden Gem: The Ancient Badaling Section

Next, the journey takes you to the Ancient Badaling, a lesser-visited, weathered part of the wall. Unlike the restored main section, this stretch shows signs of its age — weathering, structural imperfections, and a sense of authenticity that many travelers find captivating. It offers a quieter, more atmospheric experience, perfect for photography and appreciating the true age of the wall. With 2.5 hours allocated here, you’ll have time to wander, snap unique shots, and imagine what life was like when the wall was still a frontier for defending the Chinese empire.

Reviewers like Valentina appreciated the landscape here, noting the importance of comfortable shoes and patience in crowded spots. The sense of walking through history without the crowds of the main section is a distinct advantage.

Transportation and Group Size

The roundtrip transfer on a comfortable, air-conditioned bus provides a peaceful break from busy city streets and makes the logistics easier. The tour maintains a group size of up to 47 travelers, which balances intimacy with the social aspect of group travel.

Guides and Personal Touches

The reviews highlight guides like Betty, Amy, and Ding as real highlights. Owen G shared, “Betty was awesome and really made our day. She was very knowledgeable and friendly,” demonstrating how guides can elevate the experience with their expertise and warmth. Ding, in particular, was praised for keeping everyone informed and engaged, which is essential on a busy day like this.

Additional Notes on Logistics

• The tour is not credit card friendly at the Great Wall, so bringing cash or using Alipay/WeChat is recommended.
• The duration is approximately 8 hours, giving plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed.
• The ticketing process is straightforward, with guides helping you secure tickets and optional upgrades.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At just $20, this package delivers a lot. The inclusion of entry tickets, VIP access, and guidance means you’re not just paying for transportation—you’re paying for convenience, insider knowledge, and a smoother experience. The chance to see both the popular Badaling and the more authentic, weathered section means you get a rounded view of the wall’s history and scenery.

It’s especially appealing for those who want to avoid the chaos and long lines often associated with the main section. The VIP pass to the Hero Slab and the quiet ancient part makes it worth considering, even for travelers with limited time or budget.

What to Bring and Wear

Comfortable shoes are a must — you’ll be walking and possibly climbing on uneven surfaces. Sun protection and water are advisable, especially during summer months. Since the tour involves some outdoor walking, be prepared for changing weather and bring layers if necessary.

Final Tips

• Arrive early at the meeting point to ensure smooth boarding.
• Use the rest of the day to explore Beijing’s other attractions or relax after the tour.
• Consider bringing extra cash for souvenirs or snacks, as card payments may not work at the scenic spots.

The Sum Up

This Beijing Ancient Great Wall & Badaling Full-day Bus Tour offers a practical, budget-friendly way to experience China’s most famous monument without the stress of planning every detail yourself. The combination of VIP privileges, knowledgeable guides, and access to both a popular and a less crowded section makes it an excellent choice for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike.

If you want a well-organized, insightful, and affordable day at the Great Wall, this tour delivers. It’s particularly suited for those who value comfort and insider access, with enough flexibility to make your visit special. The guides’ friendly and professional approach ensures you’ll leave with fantastic memories and a deeper appreciation for this ancient marvel.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, roundtrip transportation from downtown Beijing to the Great Wall is included on an air-conditioned bus, making the trip comfortable and hassle-free.

What’s the best time to go on this tour?
The tour departs at 10:00 am, which is ideal for avoiding early morning crowds and enjoying the cooler part of the day.

Are tickets to the Great Wall included?
Yes, entrance tickets to both the Badaling Great Wall and the ancient, weathered section are included. Optional activities like cable cars can be purchased separately.

Can I buy additional tickets or upgrades during the tour?
Yes, the guide can help you make reservations for various tickets, including cable cars, based on your requests.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, water, and cash or mobile payment apps like Alipay or WeChat are recommended, as card payments might not work at scenic spots.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Generally, yes, but remember that walking and some climbing are involved. Be sure to assess your group’s mobility and comfort levels before booking.

This tour isn’t just about ticking a box; it’s about experiencing the Wall’s grandeur with ease and insight. Whether you’re here for the history, the views, or that perfect photo, this trip offers a well-rounded adventure that balances accessibility, value, and authentic scenery.