Here are more things for your to consider as you plan your own trip to Beijing this summer.
Discover the city on public transportation
If you are on a budget, this may very well be your best option. Renting a car for the duration of your stay may be convenient but costly. Beijing’s public transportation system is quite efficient so it is not really a hassle. More so, it comes dirt cheap! It seems that the bus system around the city is very reliable and buses go everywhere. The price? About 1 yuan to 6 yuan, depending on the distance. They also have a metro which can take you around faster. If you feel adventurous, try renting a bike. Though not really public transport, it is an alternative way of getting around.
Discover your own piece of the Great Wall
This is one of the main reasons we want to go to Beijing. It seems to us that you’ve never been to China if you don’t go see a piece of the Great Wall – it’s simply a given. Of course, the Great Wall extends to an enormous length and the chances are that you won’t be able to visit all of the segments. So I suggest that you do some more research before you go and pick out the segments that you would actually visit. If I were you, I’d try the most popular spot last – Badaling. This is the most crowded area but it should not be missed as it is probably the most majestically restored part of the Wall as well.