Top Things To Do In The Great Wall Of China (Beijing) In 2026 - 2027

Top 10 things to do in The Great Wall of China

1. 1. Guided Great Wall Hiking Tour from Jinshanling to Simatai

   Embark on an exhilarating hiking adventure on one of the most beautiful and well-preserved sections of the Great Wall of China. This guided tour takes you from Jinshanling to Simatai, where you can witness the true magnificence of this ancient structure amidst stunning natural scenery. As you hike along the wall, your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating stories and historical facts about the various watchtowers and architectural features. Be prepared for a moderately challenging trek as some parts of the wall are steep and uneven. The views from the top are truly rewarding, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains. It's the perfect activity for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts looking to experience the Great Wall away from the crowds.

   Duration: 6 hours · Price: $80 per person

2. 2. Mutianyu Great Wall Small-Group Tour with Cable Car

   Join a friendly small group tour to visit the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall of China. Renowned for its breathtaking scenery and relatively fewer tourists, this part of the wall lets you appreciate its grandeur in a more relaxed atmosphere. The tour includes round-trip transportation from Beijing and a cable car ride, providing a unique opportunity to see the wall from an aerial perspective. During your visit, you'll have the chance to walk along the ancient battlements, take in the stunning views of the lush greenery, and snap plenty of photos. Your guide will provide insights into the wall's history and significance, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of this World Heritage Site.

   Duration: 8 hours · Price: $105 per person

3. 3. Badaling Great Wall and Ming Tombs Day Trip from Beijing

   Experience the grandeur of two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in one day with this comprehensive day trip. First, visit the Badaling section of the Great Wall, one of the most visited parts due to its proximity to Beijing and well-preserved condition. Walk along the wall and witness the architectural marvel up close. After exploring Badaling, you'll head to the Ming Tombs, the burial site for 13 emperors of the Ming Dynasty. Here, you'll explore the Changling Tomb, the largest and best-preserved of the tombs. Your guide will provide detailed commentary about the history and significance of these sites, offering a window into China's imperial past. This excursion combines natural wonders with cultural enrichment, perfect for those looking to delve into China's rich heritage.

   Duration: Full day · Price: $120 per person

4. 4. Sunset at Juyongguan Great Wall with Evening Spa Tour

   Witness the Great Wall in the magical light of sunset with this unique tour that combines history and relaxation. Visit the Juyongguan Great Wall at a time when the tourist crowds have thinned, and enjoy the tranquility of the evening. As the sun sets, watch the wall glow with the warm hues of dusk, a truly unforgettable sight. Your guide will lead you to the best vantage points for photography and provide insightful narratives about the wall's role throughout Chinese history. After your visit, unwind with an evening spa session, indulging in rejuvenating treatments that reflect traditional Chinese wellness practices. This tour is ideal for those seeking a peaceful Great Wall experience followed by luxurious relaxation.

   Duration: 5 hours · Price: $95 per person

5. 5. Great Wall Helicopter Tour and Badaling Visit

   Elevate your Great Wall experience with a thrilling helicopter ride that offers unparalleled aerial views of this ancient fortification. This premium tour begins with a visit to the Badaling section, where you can walk along the wall and admire its imposing structure. Following your ground exploration, board a helicopter for a 15-minute scenic flight, capturing a bird's eye view of the snaking wall as it traverses the rugged mountain landscape. Your pilot will ensure you get the best views for photography and gain a unique perspective of the wall's scale and grandeur. This luxurious tour combines the intimacy of a ground visit with the exclusivity of an aerial experience, suitable for those wanting to celebrate a special occasion or simply seeking the thrill of a lifetime.

   Duration: 4 hours · Price: $300 per person

6. 6. Simatai Great Wall Night Tour

   Take a rare opportunity to explore the Simatai section of the Great Wall under the stars. This night tour allows you to experience the wall in a different light, quite literally, as it's illuminated against the night sky. You'll take a cable car up to the wall and enjoy a peaceful stroll at your own pace, appreciating the serene beauty and the vastness of the landscape around you. With fewer visitors and cooler temperatures, the night tour is an intimate and enchanting way to engage with this iconic monument. The dramatic lighting enhances the wall's features, making for an eerie yet sublime ambiance. Suitable for romantics and adventurers alike, this experience is about as magical as it gets when visiting the Great Wall.

   Duration: 3 hours · Price: $60 per person

7. 7. Gubeikou Great Wall Private Hiking Tour

   Discover the untouched beauty of the Gubeikou Great Wall with a private hiking tour designed for those who seek a more authentic adventure. Free from the renovation and commercialization seen in other sections, Gubeikou provides a raw and genuine experience of the Great Wall. On this tour, you'll have the flexibility to explore at your own pace with a dedicated guide who will tailor the experience to your interests and fitness level. The hike covers varied terrain, with some parts offering a challenge for more experienced hikers. You'll also learn about the wall's military history and the battles that took place in this strategic location. As a bonus, the lack of crowds means you can enjoy a quiet, reflective journey along this storied barrier.

   Duration: Full day · Price: $150 per person

8. 8. All-Inclusive Great Wall at Huanghuacheng with Boat Ride

   Embark on an all-inclusive adventure to the Huanghuacheng section of the Great Wall, known for its stunning scenery with a section submerged underwater. This less crowded part of the wall offers a unique experience, combining history with natural beauty. The tour includes a boat ride on the lake, offering a distinctive view of the wall as it meets the water's edge. You can also opt to hike up the wall to capture panoramic views of the surroundings. Throughout the day, your guide will provide informative commentary, making the details of this architectural wonder come alive. Inclusive of transportation and a meal, this tour takes care of all logistics, leaving you to simply enjoy the experience.

   Duration: 8 hours · Price: $130 per person

9. 9. Jiankou to Mutianyu Great Wall Hiking and Photography Tour

   This unique tour is specifically designed for hiking enthusiasts and photography lovers who wish to capture the dramatic beauty of the Great Wall. Starting at the wild and rugged Jiankou section, you'll hike to the restored Mutianyu section, witnessing the contrast between untouched and renovated wall sections. The tour offers several breathtaking spots for photographers to capture stunning images, from ancient watchtowers to panoramic vistas. The hike is challenging but manageable, with steep ascents and descents at points. Your guide will ensure you have enough time to take photos and immerse yourself in the scenery. Whether you're a professional photographer or an avid hiker, this tour provides a memorable day of exploration and creativity.

   Duration: 9 hours · Price: $110 per person

10. 10. Great Wall Toboggan Ride and Beijing City Highlights Combo Tour

    Experience the thrill of sliding down from the Great Wall on a toboggan ride at the Mutianyu section, a delightful activity for kids and adults alike. After the excitement of the descent, the combo tour takes you to explore Beijing's iconic landmarks, including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and the Temple of Heaven. This tour is the perfect combination of adventure, culture, and history, offering a bit of everything for travelers. It's a great way to balance the outdoor experience of the Great Wall with the urban sights and sounds of China's vibrant capital city. The convenience of this all-inclusive tour makes for a stress-free and action-packed day, allowing you to capture the essence of your Beijing visit.

    Duration: Full day · Price: $135 per person