Beijing Day Tours: 20 Best Beijing Day Tours

Beijing Day Tours: 20 Best Beijing Day Tours 2026/2027

Wondering how to make the most of your day in Beijing? How long will you spend in Beijing? Beijing is worth a day, but be honestly, preparing 4-5 days are better. Beijing perfectly blends imperial heritage (UNESCO world heritages), cultural depth, and modern charm, offering countless possibilities for travelers. With 20+ carefully crafted Beijing Day Tours, Asia Odyssey Travel helps you discover the best of the capital - your way.

1-5 Days Beijing Tours & 20+ Choices:

Our Beijing day tours are thoughtfully designed to suit different travel styles and schedules:

1-Day Beijing Layover Tours: Make full use of your stopover in Beijing. Visit the Mutianyu Great Wall, the Forbidden City, or both in one day - perfect for travelers with limited time.
2–3 Day Beijing Essential Tours: Capture the essence of Beijing. Explore Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Summer Palace, then enjoy a Hutong rickshaw ride to experience old Beijing’s charm.
4–5 Day Beijing In-depth Tours: Dive deeper into Beijing’s local life and culture. Walk along different Great Wall sections, discover museums (National Museum of China, the Palace Museum), enjoy authentic street food, and explore Beijing’s imperial and modern contrasts at your own pace.

From the grandeur of the Great Wall to the tranquil beauty of imperial gardens, from ancient alleys to modern skyscrapers, each itinerary is designed to reveal a different side of Beijing.

Now, Plan your Day Tour with Asia Odyssey Travel:

Whether you’re here for a quick glimpse or an immersive cultural experience, we’ll help you plan a day (or more) that fits your interests, schedule, and budget - with expert local English-speaking guides, comfortable transfers, and flexible itineraries guaranteed.

Tripadvisor

5.0

"Excellent Tour, best experience"

"A unique experience despite a difficult context thanks

to an experience team of organisers"

Beijing Day Tours: Layover Tours (One Day)

Have only one day in Beijing? Make the most of your layover! Choose from our top 3 Beijing Layover Tours - hike the Great Wall, explore the Forbidden City and Hutongs, or even combine the Forbidden City and Great Wall in one day. Perfect for 5-8 hour stopover or full-day (8-hour) visit, these tours help you experience the best of Beijing in a short time.

1 Day Beijing Layover Tour to Forbidden City & Hutongs (5-8 Hours)

Beijing

Holding an In-Between Chapter on Beijing before your whole flying story is finished? We know exactly what to do from the airport to downtown Beijing. Join this 1 Day Beijing Layover Tour in 5-8 hour...

View Details

1 Day Mutianyu Great Wall Layover Tour from Airport (8 Hours)

Beijing

Land in, Ascend, Catch, these three perfect words will give your short layover in Beijing a surprise. Play with the world wander, not your phone until it powers off. This 1 Day Beijing Great Wall Layo...

View Details

1 Day Beijing Tour to Forbidden City & Mutianyu Great Wall

Beijing

Forbidden City, Great Wall, Summer Palace... These world-class wonders are filling your feed with FOMO, but you only have one precious day. We help you complete the top two of Beijing's greatest landm...

View Details

Beijing Day Tours: 2-3 Days Essential Highlights

Want a quick look at Beijing? Spend 2 to 3 days exploring the city’s top highlights. You can choose to focus more on Great Wall hike (Mutianyu, Jingshanling, or Jiankou) or delve deeper into Beijing’s downtown attractions - the choice is yours!

Beijing Day Tours: 4-5 Days Themed & In-depth Tours

Want a more personalized itinerary based on your interests? Spend 4–5 days in Beijing for a deeper exploration of the city. Focus on themed experiences and dive into Beijing’s rich culture, history, and cuisine.

Take a rickshaw or walking tour through the narrow Hutongs (old residential alleys) around Shichahai or Houhai, visit the Bell and Drum Towers to feel the rhythm of old Beijing’s timekeeping, and savor some authentic street food along the way. You can also customize your trip with us for truly tailored Beijing experience.

Beijing Tour to Jingshan Park to View Forbidden City

4 Days Classic Beijing Tour with Forbidden City & Great Wall

Beijing

Beijing, the capital of China, is China’s second largest city after Shanghai, with 20 million locals, 16 massive districts and 17000 square kilometers full of modern to ancient sights. It boasts a ...

View Details

4 Days Beijing Tour: City Highlights, Great Wall Night Views & Gubei Water Tour

Beijing

Immerse yourself in the historical richness and grandeur of China with our 4-day Beijing Tour, "Stepping Back in Time”: A Tour of Beijing's Cultural Highlights, Historic Great Wall, and Ancient Wat...

View Details

4 Days Beijing Package Tour from Singapore: Imperial Highlights with Hutongs

Beijing

30 days visa-free, 6 hours mid-range flight. Why not return to Beijing for a visit? Leave tropical humidity behind and jump into distinct seasonal beauty and millennia of culture. Join 4 Days Beijing ...

View Details

Confucius Temple and Imperial College Museum, Beijing

5 Days Beijing Culture Tour with Great Wall, Imperial Palaces & Museum

Beijing

Beijing is the capital of China and has a history of more than 3,000 years. It was also the Forbidden City that served as the capital of China's three most recent imperial dynasties (about 600 years...

View Details

5 Days Beijing Hutong Tour - From Ancient Beijing to Modern Beijing

Beijing

“The Hutongs” are always on the tongues of easygoing Old Beijingers. Local soul lives there. Pigeon calls and friendly chatter define the air, nestled between traditional courtyard houses (Siheyua...

View Details

5 Days Beijing Family Tour: Classics, Culture & Custom Fun (Ages 8-18)

Beijing

Want to bring your kids out to see the world during summer or winter holiday? Choose Beijing - the perfect destination in China for families seeking both fun and learning. Take our 5-day Beijing Famil...

View Details

5 Days Beijing Winter Tour with Nanshan Ski, Hutong Family Visit & Hot Spring

Beijing

Planning your winter holiday? After the joyful Christmas season, why not continue the festive spirit in China as you welcome the Chinese Spring Festival? It’s the perfect time to experience the beaut...

View Details

5 Days Beijing Food Tour: Cooking Class, Iconic Meals & Classic Spots

Beijing

Take a bite of history. 600-700 years of imperial heritage and local life sprung up from food. The crisp-skinned and tender-meated Roast Duck, the steaming Hot Pot... Join 5 Days Beijing Food Tour to ...

View Details

5 Days Beijing Walking Tour to Forbidden City, Classic & Untour Hutongs

Beijing

Car ride speeds up the time. How about slowing down with your own two feet? Clear blue skies, dry air, and sunshine that penetrates to your fingertips. Explore Beijing's unique character, style, and c...

View Details

5 Days Beijing Tour from Malaysia: Dynasties, Hutongs, CBD

Beijing

Malaysian, say a temporary goodbye to the sea and the rain. Direct flights with no visa required easily bring you to the super-capital Beijing and its imperial civilization. Spring blossoms, summer ra...

View Details

Beijing Day Tours FAQs - Plan Your Beijing Day Tours Worry-Free

Expand All

1. How to get to Beijing? By air & By Bullet Train?

Beijing is a major transportation hub in China, with several options for getting there. The two most popular options are by air or by high-speed train. Here are some useful information for your reference:

1. By Flight: If you are traveling from another country or a distant region of China, flying to Beijing is usually the most convenient option. Beijing has two major airports, Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) and Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX). Both airports serve domestic and international destinations and have multiple daily flights from major cities in China and around the world. The flight time from major Chinese cities such as Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu to Beijing is usually around 2-3 hours.

2. By bullet train: If you are traveling from nearby provinces or cities, taking a high-speed train to Beijing can be a more cost-effective and convenient option, as there are many high-speed rail lines connecting Beijing to other parts of China. Beijing has several high-speed train stations, including Beijing Railway Station, Beijing West Railway Station, and Beijing South Railway Station. High-speed trains connect Beijing with many major cities in China, including Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Xi'an. The travel time from Shanghai to Beijing by high-speed train is around 4-6 hours, while the travel time from Guangzhou to Beijing is around 8-10 hours.

Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, depending on your preferences, budget, and travel plans. If you're looking for a faster travel time and don't mind the higher cost, flying may be the best option. However, if you prefer a more scenic and affordable option or want to experience China's high-speed train network, taking the train may be a better choice. Ultimately, it's up to you to decide which transportation method best suits your needs.

2. What is Beijing best known for?

Beijing is best known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and iconic landmarks that have come to symbolize China's centuries-old civilization. The following are the top sites to explore:

The Forbidden City
The Great Wall of China
Hutongs
Tiananmen Square
Summer Palace
The Temple of Heaven

3. What is the reason for visiting Beijing?

Beijing is a city of stunning contrasts, where tourists can marvel at China's imperial past in perfectly preserved palaces, buildings, courts, and parks, while also discovering its vibrant modern lifestyle and dynamic energy. The city's vastness and large distances between locations can be daunting, but it is well worth the effort to explore its many fascinating neighborhoods, such as the historic hutongs that were until recently the mainstay of Beijing's urban landscape, with their narrow lanes and single-story buildings that provide a unique and authentic glimpse into the city's old way of life.

4. How many days is enough in Beijing?

How many days to spend in Beijing for a tour? The ideal length of time to explore in Beijing depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. However, to get a good feel for the city and see the major attractions, we would recommend to spend at least 2-4 full days in Beijing.

During this time, you can visit iconic landmarks such as the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Summer Palace, and Temple of Heaven, discover historic neighborhoods like the Hutongs, sample delicious food (such as Beijing Duck & dumplings) at local eateries and markets, and experience the vibrant culture and nightlife of the city. Of course, there are many other interesting sites to explore in and around Beijing, such as the Confucius Temple (Guozijian), Lama Temple (Yonghegong), and the Olympic Park (Birds' Nest & Water Cube), among others.

When you have 5 or more days, you can travel to another city like Xian by high speed train after touring Beijing.

5. Why visit Great Wall sections in Beijing?

As one of the world's most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Great Wall of China stretches over 13,000 miles (21,000 kilometers) across northern China. It was built over several centuries by various Chinese dynasties to protect against invasions from the north. This vast and complex system of fortifications are mainly located in several Chinese provinces such as Hebei, Gansu, Shanxi, Henan, and Inner Mongolia.

But some of the most popular and well-known sections of the wall are located near Beijing, such as the Mutianyu Great Wall, Jingshanling Great Wall, Simatai Great Wall, Jiankou Great Wall, and Badaling Great Wall.

1. Badaling Great Wall (Most Famous One and The Most Tourists Visited):
This section of the Great Wall is located about 47 miles (75 kilometers) north of Beijing and is the most popular and well-preserved section of the wall.

2. Mutianyu Great Wall (Most Popular with Foreign Tourists):
This section of the Great Wall is located about 55 miles (88 kilometers) northeast of Beijing and is known for its scenic views and well-preserved fortifications.

3. Jingshanling Great Wall (Most Popular Among Photographers):
This section of the Great Wall is located about 81 miles (130 kilometers) northeast of Beijing and is known for its rugged terrain and breathtaking views.

4. Simatai Great Wall (The Only Great Wall that can be Visited at Night): This section of the Great Wall is located about 80 miles (130 kilometers) northeast of Beijing and is known for its steep slopes and watchtowers.

You can also visit Juyongguan Great Wall (one of the eight scenic spots in Beijing), Jiankou Great Wall, and Huanghuacheng Water Great Wall (a holiday resort integrating the Great Wall, lakes and mountains).

Overall, a Beijing Great Wall Tour is a must-do for many visitors to China, offering a unique and unforgettable experience of China's rich history and natural beauty. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, a Great Wall tour is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Beijing.

6. When is the best time to travel to Beijing?

The best time to visit Beijing is from April to early November. In order to avoid being surrounded by thousands of domestic tourists, it is suggested to avoid visiting Beijing during the National Day Holiday (October 1st to 7th).

Many people prefer to visit Beijing in March and April when it is much cooler and not crowded. The average temperature at this time reaches approximately 15 degrees centigrade by day falling to a low of around 5 degrees centigrade at night.

During spring (April, May) and autumn/fall (September, October) the weather is most pleasant, and the views are most spectacular, on average. During summer, expecially from July to August (the rainiest part), it is hot and humid. During winter, Beijing is very cold and dry, with a little snow.

7. What food is Beijing known for?

Beijing is known for its delicious cuisine, which is characterized by its strong flavors, rich history, and unique cooking techniques. Some of the most famous and popular Beijing dishes include:

1.Peking Roast Duck (Beijing Duck): A succulent and crispy dish that is considered one of Beijing's most famous and iconic foods, and is traditionally served with thin pancakes, scallions, and a sweet bean sauce.

2.Jiaozi (Chinese Dumplings): Jiaozi are dumplings that are a staple in Beijing cuisine. A type of dumpling that is often filled with pork, vegetables, or seafood and served boiled, steamed, or fried.

3.Mongolian Hot Pot: This is a popular dish in Beijing that originated in Inner Mongolia. A communal dish that involves cooking a variety of meats, vegetables, and noodles in a boiling broth at the table.

4.Zhajiang Mian (Noodles with Soybean Paste): This is a noodle dish that is popular throughout China, but Beijing has its own unique version. A classic Beijing Zhajiang Mian made with thick wheat noodles, a savory bean sauce made from fermented soybeans, and a variety of vegetables and meats.

5.Douzhi: This is a fermented drink made from mung beans that is popular in Beijing. It has a sour and slightly sweet taste and is often served with fried dough sticks.

6.Chaogan: This is a type of snack made from pig organs, including the liver, heart, and intestines. It's served with a spicy sauce and is a popular street food in Beijing.

Latest Beijing Day Tours Reviews from Our Customers

Discover what our customers are saying about the latest Beijing Day Tours. Browse through their recent reviews and feedback on tour arrangements, guides, transportation, attractions, dining, hotels, and detailed itineraries to plan your own unforgettable China tour. View All Customers Reviews >>

Sarah Lim

Singapore

161

What a 30-Day China Adventure — Exceeded My Expectation

I recently completed the “30 Days China Tour from Beijing” with Asia Odyssey Travel, and as someone from Singapore, I found it to be an exceptional experience.

Starting in Beijing, everything kicked off seamlessly — airport pick-up worked well, and our guide made us feel comfortable right away. Over the month we moved through a very broad selection of China’s landscapes, cities, history and culture. From the imposing Great Wall of China and Forbidden City in Beijing to ancient capitals, ethnic minority regions, high-speed train rides, rural scenery and modern metropolises.

Some of the highlights for me:

Visiting the Great Wall early in the morning when it was quiet and feeling the scale of it in person.
Seeing ancient city walls, historic towns and temples that really brought Chinese history to life.
Travelling by high-speed train across regions — the logistics were smooth and we always arrived on time.
Staying in a mix of city hotels and countryside guesthouses which gave variety.
Getting to try regional cuisines — from northern Beijing specialties to southwestern flavours, each region surprised me.

Destination(s): Beijing, Xian, Shanghai, Chengdu/Sichuan, Guilin/Yangshuo, Zhangjiajie, YangtzeRiver, Xinjiang, Dunhuang/Gansu

Date of Experience: Apr 01, 2025

Tour Customized by: JoJo

You May be Interested in This Tour: 30 Days China Tour from Beijing | Ultimate China Adventure

Michael S.

USA

196

An Incredible 21-Day China Experience - Eye-Opening & Seamless

I recently completed the “21-Day China Tour from Shanghai” with Asia Odyssey Travel, and as a traveler from the U.S., I found the journey both impressive and very well managed.

Starting in Shanghai, our arrival went smoothly — airport pick-up, a comfortable downtown hotel, and a friendly local guide who helped us get oriented right away. From there, the itinerary took us through a carefully curated mix of China’s highlights: we explored ancient towns, visited imposing historical monuments, traveled on high-speed trains and domestic flights, and experienced both modern cities and scenic countryside.

Some of the standout moments for me:

Walking through the old-city lanes and seeing the contrast of modern skyscrapers and traditional architecture.
Visiting iconic landmarks (palaces, temples, historic walls) that helped me appreciate China’s deep history.
Getting a taste of regional cuisine — from street-food stalls to more refined local restaurants — and discovering how varied Chinese food is.
Being impressed by the logistics: the hotels were well chosen, transport connections worked without major hiccups, and the guides were knowledgeable and professional.

I highly recommend this tour to fellow American travelers. It offers an excellent balance of history, nature, and city life — all arranged in a smart, hassle-free manner. Thanks to Asia Odyssey Travel for making it an unforgettable experience.

Destination(s): Beijing, Xian, Shanghai, Chengdu/Sichuan, Zhangjiajie

Date of Experience: Jun 10, 2025

Tour Customized by: Catherine

You May be Interested in This Tour: 21 Days China Tour from Shanghai: Pandas, Yunnan, Avatar Mountains, China's Icons

Liyana T.

Malaysia

161

Amazing 30-Day Journey Across China — Well Organized and Truly Worth It

I just came back from the 30-Day China Panorama Tour from Guangzhou with Asia Odyssey Travel, and it was truly one of the most memorable trips I’ve ever joined.

From the moment I landed in Guangzhou, everything was well-coordinated. The local guide greeted us at the airport and made us feel welcome right away. We started with classic Cantonese highlights like the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, Lychee Bay, and traditional dim sum — a great introduction to southern China’s culture.

The route that followed was impressive. We cruised along the Li River in Guilin, cycled through Yangshuo’s peaceful countryside, and admired the Longji Rice Terraces. In Yunnan, Dali and Lijiang’s old towns were full of character, with snow-capped mountains in the distance. Chengdu was all about pandas and Sichuan food, Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong looked like scenes from a painting, and Chongqing’s mountain city views were unforgettable. The trip ended with Beijing’s Great Wall and Forbidden City, and Shanghai’s skyline — the perfect contrast of history and modern life.

Everything ran smoothly throughout. The guides were professional and friendly, the hotels were clean and comfortable, and transportation was efficient. My personal highlights were sharing bamboo rice with local villagers in Longji, standing by the turquoise lakes of Jiuzhaigou, and watching the city lights in Chongqing after dinner.