Explore Badaling Great Wall and Ming Tombs on Your Beijing Layover Great Wall Tour

Tour Itinerary

We provide a complimentary pick-up service from your accommodation in Beijing, whether it’s a hotel, train station, or the airport. Our professional guide will meet you at the designated location, holding a sign that reads "Your Way Holiday" for easy identification. From there, your Beijing City Highlights Tour will begin, taking you through the city's most iconic attractions while offering valuable insights into its rich history and vibrant culture—ensuring a memorable and educational experience of this must-visit destination.

Embark on your journey to the iconic Badaling Great Wall, where our expert guide will provide an enriching experience. From the moment you arrive, your guide will share fascinating insights into the Wall’s construction, its strategic importance, and the history behind it. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, your guide’s deep knowledge will bring the Great Wall’s history to life. Badaling is one of the best-preserved sections of the Great Wall, offering spectacular views and historical depth. Your guide will handle all logistics, ensuring a smooth, enjoyable visit. You'll be led to some of the most famous spots, with plenty of opportunities to take memorable photos. 

The first important spot of the Great Wall is Watchtower 8, a key defensive tower during the Ming Dynasty. Positioned for optimal views of the surrounding area, Watchtower 8 gives you a chance to marvel at the Wall’s vastness. Your guide will explain the strategic importance of this watchtower, used by soldiers to monitor and communicate across the Wall’s length. Next, you’ll visit the Observation Platform, one of the most stunning viewpoints on the Wall. From this elevated platform, you’ll be able to see the Wall winding through the rugged mountains, offering breathtaking panoramic views. This location is perfect for photos, and your guide will share details about the Wall’s engineering and defensive role in protecting ancient China.

Throughout the visit, your guide will narrate captivating stories of the Wall’s history, from its origins during the Qin Dynasty to its development and fortification during the Ming Dynasty. You’ll hear about the laborers who built the Wall and the hardships they faced, as well as its symbolic importance in China’s national pride.

Embark on a culinary journey as you discover Beijing’s rich cultural heritage, complemented by a delightful lunch featuring local flavors. Whether you dine in a charming family-owned restaurant nestled in a traditional hutong or savor street food from bustling market stalls, you’ll enjoy iconic Beijing dishes like tender Peking duck, crispy jianbing, fragrant copper pot hotpot, and flavorful dumplings, all prepared with fresh, local ingredients and time-honored recipes. There are also plenty of options for vegetarians and halal diners, ensuring everyone can indulge in a satisfying meal. Engage with friendly locals and passionate chefs eager to share their culinary traditions, adding a personal touch to your experience. With each bite, you'll not only savor Beijing’s famous dishes but also gain a deeper appreciation of the city’s vibrant food culture, leaving with unforgettable memories of its diverse culinary heritage.

After visiting the iconic Badaling Great Wall, we will continue our journey to the Ming Tombs, a UNESCO World Heritage site located about 50 kilometers north of Beijing. The tombs are the final resting places of 13 emperors from the Ming Dynasty, and today, we will explore three key tombs: Dingling, Changling, and Zhaoling.

Our first stop in Ming Tombs is Dingling, the tomb of Emperor Wanli, the 13th emperor of the Ming Dynasty. Here, we’ll descend into the tomb’s underground chambers, where you’ll see the emperor’s sarcophagus and artifacts that were buried with him. Your guide will provide insight into the history of the tomb, as well as the fascinating stories behind the treasures found here.Next, we will drive to Changling, the tomb of Emperor Zhu Di, the third ruler of the Ming Dynasty, and Empress Xu. Changling is the largest and most impressive of the Ming Tombs. The architecture here is grand, with majestic halls and a long pathway lined with stone statues. Your guide will explain the significance of the tomb’s design, as well as the emperor’s important role in shaping China’s history. Finally, we’ll visit Zhaoling, the tomb of Emperor Longqing, the twelfth emperor of the Ming Dynasty, and his three empresses. The tomb is known for its elegant design and scenic surroundings. As we walk through the tomb complex, your guide will share insights into the emperor’s reign and how the tomb was constructed to honor his legacy.

Throughout the tour, your guide will offer a rich narrative, explaining the unique features of each tomb, the symbolism behind their architecture, and the fascinating history of the Ming Dynasty. Traveling between the tombs in a private car ensures a comfortable and smooth journey, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the experience without rushing. Each tomb visit will leave you with a deeper understanding of Chinese history, culture, and the significance of these royal resting places.

Your guide ensures a seamless transition, accompanying you back to the airport for your onward journey, with the flexibility to adjust the schedule based on your preferences. Whether you wish to explore more or head directly to the airport, the experience is fully customizable to suit your needs. As you reflect on the day's experiences, you'll remember the rich history and cultural treasures encountered throughout. These moments not only deepen your understanding of China’s vibrant heritage but also forge beautiful memories. Rest assured, your journey concludes with a safe, comfortable, and timely transfer to the airport, perfectly aligned with your travel schedule.

Price Per Person in US Dollars