Car Hire at Great Wall of China, CHN

Reasons to book a car hire around Great Wall of China

Renting a car around the Great Wall of China offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this historic fort and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as the Mutianyu Great Wall, located just 1 km away, where you can immerse yourself in cultural experiences. Additionally, the scenic Yanqi Lake, 10 km away, is perfect for outdoor activities and romantic outings, while Jiankou, a symbolic landmark situated 5 km from the Great Wall, provides further opportunities for cultural exploration.

The convenience of having a car also extends to nearby cities like Huairou, where the Great Wall is located, as well as Miyun, which is 25 km away and features attractions like Simatai and Riyuedao Square. For those venturing to Niupenyu, located 15 km away, you can enjoy sites such as Baiquan Mountain and Yunlongjian Scenic Area. A rental car is particularly beneficial for families or groups with luggage, enabling easy management while visiting these diverse destinations without the constraints of public transport.

Where to stay near Great Wall of China

• Huairou: Situated in the heart of Huairou, you will find easy access to the iconic Great Wall of China and the stunning Mutianyu Great Wall, both of which are historic forts ideal for a cultural holiday. The area offers a rich cultural experience, with nearby attractions like Yanqi Lake, perfect for outdoor and romantic activities. Huairou also has various shopping areas and malls, making it a convenient base for exploring the surrounding historic sites.
• Miyun: Located 25 km from the Great Wall of China, Miyun is another vibrant city that offers a delightful mix of culture and family-friendly activities. Here, you can explore the Simatai historic site and the Great Wall at Bailing Pass, both significant for their cultural heritage. The city is also known for its ski fields, making it a great choice for winter visits. Miyun provides ample shopping areas, ensuring a well-rounded experience for travellers.
• Banqiao: Just 24 km away from the Great Wall of China, Banqiao is a charming neighbourhood that features the Great Wall itself along with other cultural highlights such as the historic Summer Palace. This area is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in history while enjoying the local city life along Sanlitun Road. Banqiao's proximity to key attractions makes it a convenient choice for visitors wanting to explore the rich heritage of the region.

10 tips to save on your car hire around Great Wall of China

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for warm weather, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary according to demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are likely to benefit from lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to prevent additional charges. This is often the most advantageous option. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car empty in such instances.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car from airports, but this may be justified by the added convenience.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies accept only credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car hire insurance when booking with Expedia is quite straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.