Top 10 Weekend Trips and Getaways from Beijing

Beijing is not only China’s political and cultural heart but also one of the world’s most fascinating ancient capitals, with over 3,000 years of history and heritage. Thanks to the expansion of China’s high-speed rail network and modern highways, Beijing now serves as a perfect base for weekend trips across northern and central China. Many incredible destinations—such as Xi’an, Datong & Pingyao, Luoyang, Tianjin, Qingdao, and Qinhuangdao, even Shanghai —can now be reached in just a few hours, making short getaways more accessible than ever.

Whether you’re a tourist on a longer China tour, an expat living in Beijing, or a local traveler looking to explore beyond the city’s iconic attractions like the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven, and traditional Hutongs, this curated list of the top 10 weekend getaways from Beijing is designed to inspire your next 1–2 day adventure. From breathtaking sections of the Great Wall to peaceful ancient towns, seaside escapes, and sacred mountains, there’s a trip here for every traveler.

The Great Wall of China, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987, is one of the most iconic symbols of Chinese civilization and a must-visit for any traveler to tour China. Beijing is home to some of the best-preserved and most scenic sections of the Ming Dynasty Great Wall — ideal for a 1- or 2-day weekend escape. Among the most popular and photogenic sections easily reachable from the capital are Mutianyu, Jinshanling, and Huanghuacheng, each offering a unique atmosphere, hiking experience, and stunning natural surroundings.

Mutianyu Great Wall – 1 Day Trip

Located in Huairou District, about 73 kilometers (1.5 hours’ drive) northeast of downtown Beijing, Mutianyu is often considered the best section for international visitors. It offers well-restored walls, lush mountain scenery, and fewer crowds compared to the more touristy Badaling section. The area is family-friendly, with options to take a cable car up and a fun toboggan slide down — a favorite among adventurous travelers.

Mutianyu is accessible by direct tourist bus from Dongzhimen Bus Station at 8:30 AM daily. It’s a convenient and rewarding day trip, perfect for first-time Great Wall explorers. We also offer 1 day group tour to Mutianyu Great Wall.

Jinshanling Great Wall – 1 or 2 days

Jinshanling is one of the most majestic and scenic sections of the Great Wall, offering a quieter, more rugged hiking experience just two hours northeast of Beijing. Built along the mountain ridges during the Ming Dynasty, this stretch of the wall retains many of its original features and is famous for its panoramic views, steep climbs, and well-preserved watchtowers. With far fewer tourists than other sections, Jinshanling is a haven for photographers — especially during sunrise, sunset, and after summer rainstorms when clouds and rainbows roll through the valleys.

From April to November, a dedicated tourist bus departs from Dongzhimen Public Transport Hub in Beijing at 8:00 AM on weekends and public holidays, returning in the afternoon. The round-trip journey takes about 2 hours and costs approximately CNY 120, but schedules may vary seasonally — checking ahead is recommended.

For those hoping to capture golden hour light or enjoy a slower pace, an overnight stay near the wall is a great option. While Simatai New Village (10–15 km away) offers more lodging choices, guesthouses closer to Jinshanling—such as Jinshanling Hotel, just 200 meters from the entrance—provide convenient access for early hikes or stargazing. Many local farmstays also offer meals and a glimpse of village life near the wall.

With a mix of restored and wild sections, Jinshanling offers one of the most rewarding short getaways from Beijing — ideal for hikers, history lovers, and anyone looking to escape the crowds.

Huanghuacheng Water Great Wall – 1 or 2 days

Huanghuacheng stands out as the only section of the Great Wall near Beijing that seamlessly integrates with water, offering rare views of ancient stone walls stretching across lush mountains and dipping into tranquil lakes. Located about 70 kilometers north of downtown Beijing in Huairou District, it’s a perfect short escape for travelers seeking nature, history, and a peaceful atmosphere.

This area is especially popular in midsummer, when vibrant yellow wildflowers (huanghua) bloom along the hillsides, adding to its picturesque charm. You can enjoy scenic boat rides on the lake — a unique way to admire the Wall from a different perspective. Unlike other sections, Huanghuacheng officially permits overnight camping in designated areas, though it’s recommended to arrange this through an experienced local tour operator, as camping directly on the Wall requires permits and guidance.

• How to Get There
  There is no direct tourist bus currently running from Dongzhimen to Huanghuacheng. However, you can:
  Take the 916 Express bus from Dongzhimen Bus Hub to Huairou North Avenue, then
  Transfer to local bus H21 or hire a private car to the entrance of the scenic area.

To save time and ensure a seamless experience, consider booking through a local China travel agency like WindhorseTour. A private guided tour can provide round-trip transfers, expert commentary, and assistance with camping arrangements or other personalized activities.

Whether you’re photographing summer wildflowers, hiking along restored and unrestored Wall segments, or pitching a tent under the stars, Huanghuacheng offers a serene and unique Great Wall experience—perfect for a 1–2 day getaway from Beijing.

Located in Yanqing District, about 85 kilometers (2 hours’ drive) from Beijing, Longqing Gorge is a hidden gem that blends the charm of southern river landscapes with the rugged grandeur of the north. Often referred to as the “Little Li River of the North,” this scenic area is ideal for Beijingers, expats in Beijing, and short-term visitors looking for a refreshing change of pace.

In summer, Longqing Gorge is known for its cool mountain air, averaging about 6°C lower than downtown Beijing, making it a perfect leisure weekend getaway. Take a relaxing boat ride through the gorge, ride the iconic dragon-shaped elevator, or try adventure sports like ziplining, bungee jumping, and hiking. It’s a great place to unwind or get active in nature.

In winter, the canyon is transformed into a glittering world during the Longqing Ice Lantern Festival, showcasing illuminated ice sculptures, snow art installations, and dazzling lights — a magical alternative to Harbin’s larger festival.

How to Get There
Reaching Longqing Gorge by public transport is possible but requires multiple transfers and 3–4 hours of travel. For expats in Beijing or travelers short on time, the most convenient option is booking a private tour or vehicle.

Located in Mentougou District, about 90 kilometers (2 hours’ drive) northwest of Beijing, Cuandixia Village is a peaceful mountain village known for its well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty courtyard homes. Nestled in a narrow valley, it’s a favorite weekend getaway for Beijingers, expats in Beijing, and visitors looking for a slower, culturally immersive experience.

The village is home to over 70 traditional courtyard residences built with blue bricks and grey tiles, arranged along the hillside in a terraced layout. From the nearby Jinchan Mountain viewpoint, you can enjoy sweeping views of the village — especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset.

Many visitors choose to stay overnight in local farmhouse inns, where you can sleep on a traditional kang bed, a heated brick platform still common in rural northern China. On the second day, enjoy short nature walks to One-Line Sky (Yixiantian) or Baiyu Valley, both nearby and known for their rock formations and quiet trails.

How to Get There
Public transport options are limited and can be time-consuming. The most efficient way to reach Cuandixia is by private vehicle or with a small guided tour, allowing more time to explore and enjoy the surroundings.

Sitting along the coast of the Bohai Sea, Tianjin is one of northern China’s most distinctive cities. Thanks to its location just 30–40 minutes by high-speed train from Beijing, it’s a perfect choice for a weekend getaway from the capital, offering culture, architecture, and food — all with minimal travel time.

Tianjin blends historic Chinese landmarks with striking European architecture, a legacy of its former foreign concessions. Wander the Italian Style Street, visit the St. Joseph Cathedral, and admire the elegant bridges spanning the Haihe River. The city’s charm lies in its balance between modern city life and a deep sense of tradition.

One of Tianjin’s most iconic sights is the Eye of Tianjin, a 120-meter-tall Ferris wheel built into a bridge — the only one of its kind in the world. Between sightseeing, be sure to sample local favorites like jianbing (crispy breakfast crepes) and Erduoyan-style fried rice cakes, both staples of Tianjin’s vibrant street food scene.

The best times to visit are spring (March–May) and autumn (October–November), when the weather is mild and the riverside paths are especially scenic.

How to Get There
Tianjin is easily accessible by high-speed rail or expressways, making it an excellent choice for a short Beijing weekend trip. Once there, you can get around easily via metro, taxi, or on foot. Or take a private customized tour with Chinese travel agency like WindhorseTour.

Located in Chengde, Hebei Province, about 230 kilometers northeast of Beijing, the Chengde Mountain Resort is a masterpiece of imperial Chinese landscaping and architecture. As the largest existing classical royal garden in China, it served as the summer retreat for Qing emperors and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site — ideal for a relaxed weekend getaway from Beijing.

Construction began in 1703 under Emperor Kangxi and took nearly 90 years to complete under the reigns of Yongzheng and Qianlong. The resort spans over 5.6 million square meters and is divided into four distinct areas: palace, lake, mountain, and plain. Highlights include the Wenjin Pavilion (imperial library), serene lakeside halls, open plains used for rituals, and a group of 28 symbolic yurts reflecting the Qing court’s relationship with Mongolian and Tibetan cultures.

The palace area features elegant halls and pavilions used for political affairs and imperial life, while the mountain zone mimics natural landscapes across China. A walk through the resort feels like a journey across the empire, carefully crafted into a single retreat.

How to get to Chengde
The most convenient way to visit is by high-speed train from Beijing Chaoyang Station or Beijing West Station to Chengde South Station, taking 1 to 2 hours. Driving takes about 3–4 hours. To fully explore the vast grounds and architecture, an overnight stay in Chengde is recommended.

Once the capital of the Northern Wei Dynasty and a stronghold under the Liao and Jin, Datong is an underrated cultural gem just a few hours from Beijing — perfect for a 2-day weekend trip steeped in history.

Here, ancient dynasties left behind grand monuments that showcase China’s early fusion of art, religion, and architecture. Visit the UNESCO-listed Yungang Grottoes, home to over 50,000 intricate Buddhist carvings, and stroll through the city’s historic core to see the Huayan Temple, Shanhua Monastery, and the colorful Nine-Dragon Screen. Beyond the city, dramatic landmarks await: the Hanging Monastery, built into the cliffs of Mount Hengshan, and the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, the world’s oldest and tallest wooden pagoda, both make for an unforgettable day trip loop from Datong.

With its mix of cultural depth and striking sights, Datong is ideal for Beijingers and expats craving a historic weekend escape with minimal travel time.

How to get to Datong from Beijing:
Datong is easily reached via high-speed train from Beijing in about 2 to 2.5 hours. The best time to visit is April to October for the most comfortable weather.

Stepping into Pingyao is like walking into a living museum. With over 2,700 years of history, this UNESCO-listed town in Shanxi Province is one of China’s best-preserved ancient cities and an excellent weekend getaway from Beijing for those craving immersive history, charming alleys, and rich merchant heritage.

Once the financial hub of imperial China, Pingyao is home to Rishengchang, believed to be the country’s first draft bank, established during the Qing Dynasty. Inside the ancient city walls, visitors can stroll along Ming-Qing Street, where courtyard homes, red lanterns, and slate-paved roads create a time-travel atmosphere. Whether it’s the rhythmic gongs of local folk performances, the glow of lantern-lit streets, or the scent of local snacks, Pingyao invites you to slow down and savor the past.

Nearby, don’t miss sites like Shuanglin Temple, Wang’s Courtyard, and Qiao’s Courtyard — all fine examples of Shanxi’s architectural heritage. Each season brings its own magic: autumn is the most pleasant, while winter offers snowy serenity and lively Spring Festival celebrations like the Shehuo folk shows.

How to get to Pingyao from Beijing
Pingyao is accessible via high-speed train from Beijing, taking about 4 hours. It’s ideal for a 2-day historical escape, with well-preserved sights and a deeply atmospheric vibe year-round.

Just two hours by bullet train from Beijing, Beidaihe Beach in Qinhuangdao, Hebei Province, has long been a beloved weekend retreat for Beijingers and expats. With its clean seawater, fine sand, and refreshing sea breeze, it offers a perfect escape from the capital’s summer heat and urban buzz.

Known as a “summer garden” by the sea, Beidaihe is especially popular from late June to August, when the weather is ideal for swimming, beach walks, and cooling off under the coastal sun. Food lovers will be delighted by the area’s bounty of fresh seafood, including Pipi shrimp, crabs, oysters, and a dazzling array of local fish — all best enjoyed at open-air beachside restaurants.

In addition to relaxing on the sand, visitors can explore scenic spots like Tiger Stone Park, Dove Nest Park, and Biluota Sea Bar Park. If you’re visiting in mid-to-late August, don’t miss the lively Beidaihe Music Festival, a unique mix of seaside chill and summer beats. Nature enthusiasts will also appreciate the migratory bird-watching seasons in spring and autumn — especially in March–May and September–October.

How to get to Beidaihe from Beijing
Beidaihe is a smooth 2-hour high-speed train ride from Beijing, making it an easy choice for a 2-day beach getaway. Spring and autumn are great for birdwatching and seafood, while summer is best for swimming and family fun by the sea.

Located in the northwest of Hebei Province, Zhangjiakou is a northern city with a long and storied history. Thanks to its strategic location, it has served as a military stronghold and an important land trade port, connecting China to Mongolia, Russia, and Eastern Europe. It’s also recognized as a symbolic center of ethnic integration and cultural unity in northern China.

Zhangjiakou offers a compelling mix of historical heritage and natural beauty, making it a top choice for weekend outings from Beijing. With a travel time of just around 1 hour by high-speed train, it’s a convenient escape to a world of green mountains, sparkling rivers, and even desert landscapes.

Among its top natural highlights is the Zhangbei Bashang Grassland, famous for wide-open skies and sweeping meadows — perfect for hiking, horseback riding, and photography. The quieter Cuiyunshan Scenic Area offers a peaceful alternative for those seeking off-the-beaten-path relaxation. On the cultural side, explore landmarks like the Dajing Gate section of the Great Wall, and ancient towns such as Nuanquan, Jimingyi, and Xuanhua, known for their historic temples, towers (like Gongji, Zhenshuo, and Qingyuan), and fortress-like city walls.

If you have more time, combine these highlights with a visit to Chongli’s Secret Garden Ski Resort, the host venue of the 2022 Winter Olympics, now a modern hub for skiing and snowboarding. Whether you’re after snow adventures or summer grassland hikes, Zhangjiakou is a year-round destination, with autumn being the most scenic and comfortable season to visit.

How to get to Zhangjiakou from Beijing
Zhangjiakou is easily reached from Beijing by high-speed train in about an hour, making it perfect for a 2- or 3-day trip blending culture, nature, and winter sports — all within easy reach of the capital.

As one of China’s Four Great Ancient Capitals, Luoyang boasts over 3,000 years of recorded history and has served as the capital for 13 dynasties. Famed as both the “Ancient Capital of a Thousand Years” and the “Peony Flower City”, Luoyang is the perfect weekend getaway for those drawn to imperial history, Buddhist art, and floral beauty.

The city’s crown jewel is the Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring over 100,000 Buddhist statues carved into limestone cliffs — a masterpiece of Northern Wei and Tang Dynasty stone art. Nearby, the White Horse Temple, regarded as China’s first Buddhist temple, offers a quiet and spiritual contrast to the grandeur of the grottoes.

Luoyang is also home to the annual Peony Festival (mid-April), when Wangcheng Park bursts into color and draws flower lovers from across the country. In autumn (September to November), the city’s crisp air and golden light make it another ideal time to explore historical neighborhoods and enjoy scenic walks.

For those with extra time, the nearby Shaolin Temple — the cradle of Chinese Kung Fu — is within reach and makes an excellent cultural side trip.

How to get to Luoyang from Beijing
Luoyang is easily accessible from Beijing via high-speed train, with a journey time of about 4 hours. With its unique blend of ancient culture, stone-carved marvels, and seasonal floral charm, Luoyang is a top-tier 2-day cultural getaway from the capital.