Beijing Tours 2026: City Tour Packages to Great Wall & Forbidden City

Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) may be the best answer. Weather can be at there greatest in these months, so visitors can comfortably enjoy outdoor activities. A small tip here is that Beijing’s autumn is incredibly beautiful and stunning, which would leave you a deep impression.

Now the 240-hour transit visa-free policy allows a lot of visitors to travel without a visa, however, you need to meet some requirements. And under this policy, you may stay up to 10 days in Beijing. Eligibility depends on your nationality, whether you have a valid passport and onward ticket to a third country/region.

Eligible foreign citizens (from 55 countries) who want to enter China and later transit to a third country/region can stay up to 240 hours (10 days) here without a visa. However, there are some documents you have to prepare and submit, for example, tickets to a third country/region, your valid passport. And you can only go through one of 60 designated ports to travel across 24 provinces/municipalities (including Beijing).

A 3-day trip is basically enough to cover some major sights. 4–5 days gives a more relaxing and immersive experience. You can see more details of the city, for example, to have a cultural exploration in hutong.

Mutianyu Great Wall. It is well restored, scenic with dozens of watchtowers, and offers easier access via chairlift or gondola. So that it’s suitable for most visitors, including families with kids or elders.

Beijing’s public transport is well-developed. Subway and buses can take you to everywhere efficiently with only a little cost. Taxis are also convenient and affordable, but be aware of Beijing’s busy traffic, which may cause delays.

Temple of Heaven: providing a glimpse of how Beijing’s old historical heritage merges into people’s local life.

Traditional hutongs: to explore local people’s everyday life, culture and history are also lying here.

A must is classic Peking duck. This is one of Beijing’s most iconic and famous local dishes. The crispy roast duck will be served and enjoyed with pancakes, scallions and sauce, together, they form a wonderful taste. Also try local snacks and street food for more authentic flavors.

Guided tours is preferred for its convenience, transport, and cultural context (all good for first-time visitors). Self-guided trip adds flexibility, spontaneity and a more immersive local feel to your journey, but it would certainly cost you more time and energy in planning and preparing.

Yes. Sections like Mutianyu Great Wall (with chairlift) are easier and more interesting for children. Other suitable activities include Hutong rickshaw rides, gentle city walks, parks, or hands-on cultural experiences (food, crafts), these can balance sightseeing and relaxation.