I’m thinking of visiting the Great Wall and the Summer Palace in one day this spring—do you think that’s doable?
Also, what’s the best way to get there, and how much does it cost to get in?
Visiting both the Summer Palace and the Great Wall on the same day in spring is absolutely possible! Spring in Beijing offers mild weather, making it a great time to explore these iconic attractions.
Suggested Itinerary:
- Morning: Start your day early at the Great Wall, either at Badaling (most popular) or Mutianyu (quieter, with beautiful views). Both sections are easily accessible, and in spring, the weather is usually pleasant for hiking or taking the cable car.
- Afternoon: After exploring the Great Wall, head to the Summer Palace for a relaxing afternoon visit. The Summer Palace is a bit closer to the city, so you can take your time and enjoy the gardens and lakes.
Best Travel Options:
- Private Tour: The most convenient option for efficiency. A private driver can take you directly from the Great Wall to the Summer Palace, saving time and energy.
- Taxi/Car: Taxis are readily available, though traffic can be heavy in certain areas. This option is faster and more comfortable than public transport, especially if you’re traveling in a group.
- Public Transport:
- To the Great Wall:
- Badaling: Take the High-speed train from Beijing Qinghe Railway Station (about 1.5 hours), or use a direct bus (about 1.5-2 hours).
- Mutianyu: You can take a bus or a taxi (about 1.5-2 hours).
- To the Summer Palace: From the Great Wall, you can take a taxi (about 1-1.5 hours), or use the Beijing Subway (about 1 hour from Badaling or 40 minutes from Mutianyu).
- To the Great Wall:
- Guided Tour: Many tours offer a full day, combining both the Great Wall and the Summer Palace, which includes transportation and a guide. This can be a great option if you want a more seamless experience.
Entry Costs:
- Great Wall (Badaling or Mutianyu):
- Badaling: Entry is around ¥40-¥45 (basic entrance). If you take the cable car, the cost is about ¥100-¥120 one-way.
- Mutianyu: Entry is ¥40, with cable car options costing around ¥100-¥150.
- Summer Palace:
- The basic entrance fee is ¥30. Additional fees for specific attractions (like the Tower of Buddhist Incense or boat rides) are around ¥10-¥40 each.
Time Needed:
- Great Wall: Plan for 2-3 hours to explore and hike. You can extend this if you want to spend more time enjoying the views or taking the cable car.
- Summer Palace: Allocate around 2-3 hours to explore the main areas. If you plan to visit additional attractions, you might need more time.
Conclusion:
It’s totally feasible to visit both the Great Wall and the Summer Palace in one day during spring. The weather is perfect for outdoor activities, and with efficient transportation (like a private tour or taxi), you can comfortably explore both without feeling rushed. Let me know if you need more details on travel options or planning your day!