From Beijing: Two Badaling Great Wall Bus Tour w Tickets

If you’re planning a visit to Beijing and want a straightforward, well-organized way to see the Great Wall, this Two Badaling Great Wall Bus Tour might just fit the bill. While it’s a popular choice for travelers seeking a hassle-free day, it manages to strike a good balance between comfort, authenticity, and value. Our look at this tour considers what makes it a compelling option, as well as some things to watch out for.

The first thing we love is the ever-present focus on avoiding crowds — with access to quieter sections and VIP benefits, you get a more relaxed experience than fighting for space among the busloads of travelers. Second, the professional guides shine in reviews, consistently bringing the history and stories of the Wall alive, making the visit more meaningful.

The only potential caveat? The tour schedule is tight, with a lot packed into 8 hours, so if you prefer a leisurely pace or want to explore other Beijing attractions, you might find this tour a bit rushed. Still, if your goal is to see the Wall efficiently and enjoy some iconic sights, this tour offers a lot of value for the price. It’s best suited for travelers who want a structured, informative day trip that doesn’t break the bank.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just $19 per person, this tour offers solid value, especially considering VIP access and all tickets included.
• Two Sections of the Wall: You visit both the popular Badaling and the less-restored, weathered Ancient Badaling section, providing a balanced view of China’s most famous monument.
• Expert Guides: Many reviews praise the guides for their professionalism, friendliness, and detailed explanations.
• Flexible Stops: Self-guided time on the Wall lets you explore at your own pace, with plenty of photo opportunities and viewpoints.
• Additional Sights: The tour concludes with a visit to the Olympic Park, giving you a glimpse of the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube.
• No Shopping Pressure: The tour guarantees no forced shopping stops, keeping the experience authentic and straightforward.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic, Well-Organized Day on the Great Wall

This tour is clearly designed for travelers who want to see the Great Wall without the stress of planning every detail. It starts early at Beitucheng Subway Station, where staff in green vests will greet you and guide you onto the bus. The 1.5-hour drive offers a chance to relax and listen to the guide’s introduction to the Wall’s significance.

What to Expect at Badaling

Once at Badaling, you’ll collect your tickets and have about two hours for a self-guided exploration. The Wall here is famous for its restored, impressive appearance, making it ideal for photos and absorbing the grandeur of the structure. As many reviews note, it can get crowded, but the tour’s VIP access to the South-line ground cableway helps you avoid long lines and reach higher points with ease.

The Ancient Badaling Section

A highlight is the visit to the less-restored ‘Ruined Great Wall’, located about 5 km southwest of the main site. This weathered portion is untouched by large-scale renovations, showing the real age and character of the Wall. It offers a more rugged, authentic experience, with visible weathering and structural imperfections. Visitors who love history and want to see the ‘warts and all’ side of the Wall will appreciate this segment.

Tour Timing and Pacing

After exploring the main and ancient sections, the bus returns to the Beijing city center, ending at the Olympic Park. Here, you can admire the Bird’s Nest stadium and Water Cube, a fantastic photo opportunity. The schedule is tight but well-structured, with about 4.5 hours of sightseeing and driving time.

More Great Tours Nearby

What Travelers Say

Many reviews spotlight the knowledgeable guides who make the experience engaging and informative. One reviewer mentions, “The guide explained the Wall’s history and helped us at every step,” while another appreciates the friendly and professional service.

The views are consistently praised for their spectacular nature — even on a busy day, the Wall’s grandeur is undeniable. Some travelers even highlight how the tour’s no-shopping guarantee preserves the integrity of the experience compared to other tours that often include lengthy stops at markets.

Additional Considerations

While the price includes most essentials — round-trip transport, tickets, and a guide — some reviews point out that cable car options are extra if you choose to add them. Also, since the tour involves a fair amount of walking and sightseeing, comfortable shoes are a must.

For those concerned about logistics, the meeting point at Beitucheng Station is accessible via Subway Lines 8 or 10. The tour’s timing is fixed, which means you’ll need to be punctual, but the organization generally receives praise for smooth pickups and drop-offs.

Deep Dive into the Itinerary

The day begins at Beitucheng Station, a convenient location in central Beijing. Your guide—easily identifiable in a green vest—will lead you to the bus, which then departs for the Wall. The ride offers a chance to get excited about the scenery and listen to engaging stories about the Wall’s history and construction.

Upon arrival at Badaling, you’ll start your exploration with tickets already in hand. This section is the most famous and well restored, giving visitors an iconic view of the Wall stretching over the mountains. Expect about two hours of free time, during which you can climb, take photos, or simply enjoy the view.

The VIP access to the South-line ground cableway is a thoughtful addition, saving you from long lines and steep climbs. This ease of access allows more time for sightseeing and fewer worries about fatigue, especially for those less inclined to hike uphill.

Next, the bus takes you to the Ancient Badaling—a much more rugged, weathered part of the Wall. This area is a favorite among history buffs and those wanting a more authentic, less touristy experience. The roughly 2.5 hours here are filled with opportunities for photos, exploration, and soaking in the old stones of the Wall, untouched by modern restoration.

Finally, the tour wraps up with a visit to the Olympic Park, where the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube make for memorable photos. You’ll have about an hour here to stroll around, take pictures, or head to the subway stations nearby for your own further adventures.

Why This Tour Is a Good Deal

At just $19 per person, including all entry tickets and transportation, this tour packs excellent value. The price point makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers who still want a quality experience with knowledgeable guides. The paid upgrade for the cable car is optional, which means you can tailor your visit based on how much walking or hiking you prefer.

The all-in-one nature of the tour — combining two sections of the Wall, a scenic drive, guided commentary, and a visit to Olympic landmarks — makes it a time-efficient choice. No need to worry about transportation logistics or ticketing — everything is arranged in advance, giving you peace of mind.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour works best for travelers who want to see a representative slice of the Great Wall in a single day without fuss. It’s particularly good for those who value guides with local knowledge and a straightforward itinerary. The inclusion of the ancient, weathered Wall adds a layer of authenticity that many travelers appreciate.

If your priority is a relaxed, guided experience with decent time on the Wall, and you’re okay with a full day of sightseeing, this tour offers excellent value. It’s also a great choice for first-timers eager to avoid the logistical headaches of making their own way around Beijing.

Keep in mind, the schedule is busy, and if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want to explore other parts of Beijing, you might want to consider customizing your plans or choosing a different type of tour.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
Your ticket covers roundtrip transport from downtown Beijing, an English-speaking guide, entry tickets to both the Badaling and Ancient Badaling sections, and VIP access to the South-line ground cableway if you select that option.

How long is the bus ride?
The drive from Beijing to the Wall is approximately 1.5 hours each way.

Can I choose whether to take the cable car?
Cable car rides are available as an optional upgrade. If not selected, you’ll need to walk or hike up and down.

Where does the tour start?
Meet at Beitucheng Subway Station Exit C, accessible via Subway Lines 8 or 10.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking can be made now and paid later, offering flexibility.

Are there any shopping stops?
No, the tour guarantees no shopping pressure, keeping the experience authentic.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly?
Yes, but be prepared for some walking, especially in the ancient section. The cable car can help reduce the uphill walk if needed.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended; bring sun protection or rain gear depending on weather.

Can I extend my time at the Wall?
The schedule is tight, with about 4 hours of sightseeing and driving. Extensions aren’t typically included, but you may explore nearby areas on your own afterward.

What is the best time to take this tour?
Morning departures are common, and visiting early can help avoid the largest crowds, especially at the popular Badaling site.

In The Sum Up

This Two Badaling Great Wall Bus Tour offers solid value, organized logistics, and a chance to see two very different parts of China’s most iconic structure. With expert guides, VIP benefits, and a no-hassle approach, it’s a smart pick for travelers eager to tick the Great Wall off their bucket list without overcomplicating things.

It’s best suited for those who want a guided, informative experience that balances sightseeing with comfort and affordability. If you’re after a fun, educational day trip that captures the majesty of the Great Wall and a slice of Beijing’s Olympic history, this tour hits the mark. Just be prepared for a busy day and come ready to walk, learn, and marvel at one of the world’s most famous landmarks.

You can check availability for your dates here: