18-Hour Layover in Beijing: Great Wall, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Qianmen Street & More
With an 18-hour layover, you have ample time to explore some of Beijing’s most iconic sites. This itinerary takes you to the Mutianyu Great Wall, the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and Qianmen Street, giving you a comprehensive Beijing experience before heading back to the airport.
1. Clearing Customs at Beijing Airport (1 Hour)
Start your day by clearing customs at Beijing Capital International Airport. Allow 1 hour for this process.
2. Travel to Mutianyu Great Wall (1 Hour)
Next, take a 1-hour drive to the Mutianyu Great Wall. Enjoy the scenic journey and get ready for an incredible experience at one of the most famous sections of the Great Wall.
3. Explore Mutianyu Great Wall (2.5 Hours)
Spend 2.5 hours exploring the Mutianyu Great Wall. This section is known for:
- The open chairlift ride with stunning views of the Wall.
- A visit to the famous beacon towers, including Tower 4, with historical significance.
- A thrilling descent via the toboggan slideway.
4. Head Back to Downtown Beijing (1.5 Hours)
After your time at the Great Wall, allow 1.5 hours to return to the city center and prepare for the next stop.
5. Explore the Forbidden City (3.5 Hours)
With 3.5 hours, you’ll have ample time to explore the Forbidden City. Highlights include:
- The Imperial Garden and Hall of Supreme Harmony.
- The Treasure Museum and Clock Museum for a deeper look into China’s royal past.
6. Visit Prospect Hill (Jingshan) (1 Hour)
Just north of the Forbidden City is Prospect Hill (Jingshan), where you can climb to the top for an incredible panoramic view of the Forbidden City and the city of Beijing. Spend 1 hour soaking in the view and exploring the area.
7. Stroll Through Qianmen Street (2 Hours)
Qianmen Street is a great place for shopping and eating. Spend 2 hours here to:
- Browse the traditional shops along Dashilan Street.
- Enjoy local street food, such as Peking duck and traditional snacks.
8. Explore Temple of Heaven (2 Hours)
Visit the Temple of Heaven, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for 2 hours. Highlights include:
- The Heavenly Altar and Circular Mound Altar.
- A peaceful walk through the Temple of Heaven Park.
9. Travel Back to the Airport (1.5 Hours)
After a day filled with exploration, it will take about 1.5 hours to return to Beijing Capital International Airport. Use this time to relax before your international flight.
10. Buffer Time for International Flight (2-3 Hours)
Arrive at the airport with a 2-3 hour buffer before your international flight, ensuring you have enough time for check-in and security procedures.
Conclusion: Your 18-Hour Layover in Beijing
With an 18-hour layover, you can experience the best of Beijing, from the Mutianyu Great Wall to the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and Qianmen Street, all while leaving enough time to return to the airport stress-free.
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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, 14-hour, 15-hour, 16-hour, 17-hour, 19-hour, 20-hour, 21-hour, 22-hour, 23-hour and 24-hour schedules.
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