What to Do with an 14 Hour Layover in Beijing: A Complete Guide

Hongluo Temple

Maximizing a 14-Hour Layover in Beijing: Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Jingshan Hill

With a 14-hour layover in Beijing, you have the chance to explore the city’s top attractions in more depth, including the Mutianyu Great Wall, the Forbidden City (with a visit to the Treasure Museum and Clock Museum), and Jingshan Hill. This itinerary allows you to immerse yourself in Beijing’s culture and history, while leaving plenty of time to return to the airport stress-free.

If you have a shorter layover, be sure to check out our 8-hour or 12-hour guides for other suggestions.


1. Clearing Customs at Beijing Airport (1 Hour)

Upon arrival, it will take around 1 hour to clear customs. Ensure your documents are ready to make this process smooth and quick.

Beijing Capital International Airport

2. Travel to Mutianyu Great Wall (1 Hour)

After clearing customs, you’ll head to the Mutianyu Great Wall, which will take approximately 1 hour by private transfer or taxi.

Journey to the Mutianyu Great Wall

3. Explore Mutianyu Great Wall (2.5 Hours)

Mutianyu Great Wall

Spend about 2.5 hours exploring the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. Highlights of your visit include:

  • Cable car or open chairlift ride for incredible views.
  • A scenic walk along the wall, with numerous beacon towers to discover.
  • Option to ride the toboggan slideway on your way down for a fun twist.
Cable Car at Mutianyu Great Wall

4. Head Back to Downtown Beijing (1.5 Hours)

After visiting the Great Wall, you’ll have about 1.5 hours to travel back to the city center. Relax and enjoy the ride as you head toward your next stop.


5. Explore the Forbidden City (3.5 Hours)

With 3.5 hours to explore the Forbidden City, you’ll have ample time to enjoy its grand halls and courtyards. Don’t miss:

  • The Hall of Supreme Harmony and Imperial Garden.
  • A visit to the Treasure Museum to see priceless artifacts.
  • The Clock Museum, featuring intricate timepieces from various dynasties.

This extended visit allows you to delve into the rich history of China’s imperial past.

Forbidden City Arrow Pavilion

6. Visit Jingshan Hill (1 Hour)

Jingshan Hill

After the Forbidden City, head to Jingshan Hill, located just north of the Forbidden City. The 1-hour climb rewards you with a spectacular panoramic view of the Forbidden City and the surrounding area.


7. Travel Back to the Airport (1.5 Hours)

Plan for about 1.5 hours to return to the airport. Be mindful of the traffic, and give yourself plenty of time to make it back.


8. Buffer Time for International Flight (3 Hours)

Arrive at the airport with a comfortable 3-hour buffer before your next flight. This gives you plenty of time to check in, go through security, and do any last-minute shopping.


Conclusion: Your 14-Hour Layover in Beijing

With a 14-hour layover in Beijing, you can take in the Mutianyu Great Wall, enjoy a deeper exploration of the Forbidden City, and visit Jingshan Hill. This well-paced itinerary ensures you can experience some of Beijing’s top attractions while leaving plenty of time to get back to the airport.


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See Also:

For shorter or longer layovers, check out our guides for 8-hour, 9-hour, 10-hour, 11-hour, 12-hour, 13-hour, 15-hour, 16-hour, 17-hour, 18-hour, 19-hour, 20-hour, 21-hour, 22-hour, 23-hour and 24-hour schedules.


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