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

A Complete Look at the Beijing Ancient Great Wall & Badaling Great Wall Full-day Bus Tour

If you’re heading to Beijing and eager to see the legendary Great Wall, this full-day tour offers a balanced mix of popular and less crowded sections, all for just around $20. For that price, you’re getting more than just transport—you gain VIP parking, free access to two different Wall sections, and the guidance of knowledgeable local guides. It’s a well-structured experience designed to maximize your time and minimize hassle, especially perfect if you prefer an organized trip without sacrificing authentic views.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour are the VIP passes that help you avoid some of the crowds—something any visitor will value in a popular, sometimes congested attraction. Another highlight is the chance to visit both the heavily visited Badaling—famous among Chinese travelers—and the more original, weathered section that’s less crowded and offers a more rugged glimpse of history. The only potential downside? It’s a long day, with about 8 hours, so it requires some patience and comfortable shoes.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want an affordable, guided experience that balances popular sights with a touch of authenticity. If you’re interested in stunning views, knowledgeable guides, and avoiding long lines, this may be a perfect fit. Just keep in mind that some walking and potentially crowded spots are part of the package.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $20 per person, it offers excellent value, especially with free VIP access and tickets included.
• Two Great Wall Sections: Visit the crowded but iconic Badaling and the less-restored ancient part, offering contrasting experiences.
• VIP Access: Skip crowds with special VIP passes for the main section and photo spots like the Hero Slab.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Betty, Amy, and Ding enhance the experience through friendly, detailed commentary.
• Convenient Transport: Roundtrip air-conditioned bus from centrally located meeting points streamlines the day.
• Limited Flexibility: As a fully booked tour, it’s best for those happy to follow a set schedule and group dynamic.

The Experience in Detail

Meeting and Departure

Your day begins early at a designated meeting point in Chaoyang, Beijing, where you’ll show your reservation and hop onto a comfortable, air-conditioned bus. The tour typically starts at 10:00 am, giving you enough time to relax before a 1.5-hour drive to the Wall. During this ride, your guide will introduce key tips and help you with ticket reservations, including optional cable car rides if you choose to ascend the Wall more easily.

Visiting Badaling: The Crowds and the Views

Once at Badaling, you’ll notice why it’s the most popular section among Chinese travelers—spectacular views, well-preserved ramparts, and plenty of photo opportunities. Here, you can opt for either the North or South line, depending on your preferences, and enjoy around two hours exploring. Many travelers commend the VIP passage, which allows you to skip the usual crowds and get a more intimate experience with the Wall’s history and views.

One reviewer, Owen, raved about Betty, the guide, saying she was “awesome and really made our day,” highlighting her friendliness and knowledge. The benefit of a guided tour in such a busy spot is the chance to learn about the Wall’s construction and significance without the distraction of crowds. Plus, there’s the chance to take photos at the Hero Slab, a popular scenic spot.

If you’re interested, there’s an optional cable car, which many find worthwhile for the sweeping vistas without the long climb. Keep in mind, however, that the cable car is an additional expense, not included in the $20 price.

The Ancient Great Wall: A More Authentic, Weathered Experience

After exploring the main section, your guide will lead you to the Ancient Badaling, a lesser-visited, more weathered segment of the Wall. This part has not been restored, which means you’ll see weathering, structural imperfections, and traces of its age. It’s a more genuine glimpse of what the Wall looked like centuries ago and offers a quieter atmosphere.

Tourists like Valentina appreciated the caring and knowledgeable guide Amy, who made the visit memorable. The 2.5-hour exploration of this less crowded section is perfect for those wanting a more authentic experience away from the tourist throngs. The weathered stones and fewer visitors allow for more relaxed photography and contemplation.

Return Trip and Additional Time

After about two and a half hours at the ancient section, the bus will take you back to Beijing. The entire experience totals approximately 8 hours, including travel and sightseeing, making it a full but manageable day. The tour ends at the Beijing Olympic Park, a modern landmark in the city.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s all-in cost includes roundtrip transportation, an English-speaking guide, entry tickets to both Wall sections, and the VIP passes that help you dodge crowds. If you opt for the cable car, it’s available as an extra. Be aware that lunch isn’t included and that credit cards may not work at the Wall, so bringing cash or using Alipay or WeChat is advisable.

Authenticity and Value

This tour hits a sweet spot between cost and authenticity. For just $20, you’re accessing two distinct parts of the Wall with VIP privileges that many bigger tour groups can’t match. The authentic weathered section provides a meaningful contrast to the more polished, crowded Badaling, giving you a well-rounded view of this world-famous monument.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praised the guides. Owen called Betty “the best,” noting her communication and friendliness. Valentina complemented Amy’s caring nature, while Peter appreciated Ding’s efficient oversight and communication. These guides seem to be the backbone of the experience, making the day both educational and enjoyable.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a traveler who values authentic scenery alongside the iconic views, this tour delivers. It’s perfect for those who want an affordable, guided day with VIP access to skip the worst crowds. The combination of a heavily visited section and a more weathered, quieter part offers a balanced perspective of the Great Wall.

However, if you prefer a more flexible schedule, private tours, or are uncomfortable with large groups, you might find this set itinerary a bit rigid. Also, be prepared for some walking and potentially crowded spots—especially in peak season.

This experience suits history buffs, photographers, and anyone eager for a cost-effective way to see the Great Wall with knowledgeable guidance. It’s especially ideal if you’re traveling with limited time but want a comprehensive, organized visit that emphasizes both scenic beauty and authenticity.

FAQs

Is transportation provided for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes roundtrip transportation from a central location in Beijing, in an air-conditioned bus, making the journey comfortable and straightforward.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, some cash or WeChat/Alipay for small expenses, and perhaps a camera. Note that credit cards might not work at the Wall itself.

Can I buy the cable car on the day?
Yes, the cable car is an optional extra and can be purchased based on your request during the tour.

How long do I get at each section of the Wall?
You’ll have about 2 hours at Badaling and approximately 2.5 hours at the ancient, weathered section, giving you ample time to explore and take photos.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Generally, yes, but consider the walking involved and the sometimes uneven terrain at the ancient section. The guided approach helps make it manageable.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, and it’s recommended since the tour can fill up, especially during peak seasons or holidays.

What if I want a private experience?
This tour is group-based and more affordable; private options might not be available through this package, but other private tours could be arranged separately.

Is it worth it for the price?
Absolutely. For just $20, including tickets, VIP passes, and transportation, it’s a solid deal that offers both convenience and enriching views, especially with the expert guides.

In the end, this tour provides a practical, well-organized way to see two very distinct parts of the Great Wall. It combines affordability with meaningful experiences, making it an excellent choice for travelers wanting to make the most of their time in Beijing without breaking the bank.