China

How to get from Guilin to Beijing

Compare all transport options: bus, ferry, train, flight. Prices, durations and tips from a local expert.

FASTEST
2h 30min
💶
From
80€
📍
Distance
1724 km
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There are 2 way(s) to get from Guilin to Beijing

Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.

🚌 Departure from Guilin
📍For Guilin, the main departure point for high-speed trains to Beijing is Guilin North Railway Station (桂林北站). It's a modern and well-equipped station with amenities like waiting rooms, shops, and restaurants, designed to handle high volumes of passengers.
🚇Guilin North Railway Station is located a bit outside the city center, but easily accessible. A taxi ride from downtown takes about 20-30 minutes and costs around 20-30 RMB. Public buses also serve the station frequently, offering a cheaper alternative (around 2-3 RMB) but taking longer.
High-speed trains from Guilin North to Beijing generally operate throughout the day, with multiple departures. The first train usually leaves in the early morning (around 8 AM) and the last in the late afternoon (around 3 PM). Frequencies vary, but expect several options daily.
💸 Transport from 80€ per person
Fastest: 2h 30min
Recommended: Train (China Railway) — 121€
🗓 Book now Secure payment · via 12go.asia

Practical tips

💡
Book Trains Early

High-speed trains, especially on popular routes like Guilin to Beijing, can sell out days or even weeks in advance. Book your tickets as soon as your itinerary is firm, ideally 2-3 weeks ahead, using platforms like 12go.asia.

💡
Confirm Your Departure Station

Many Chinese mega-cities have multiple train stations. For Guilin, the main station is Guilin North, while Beijing typically uses Beijing West or Beijing South. Always verify your specific departure and arrival station to avoid confusion.

💡
Passport for Booking and Boarding

Your passport is essential for booking train tickets online and for boarding trains in China. Ensure the name on your ticket matches your passport exactly. Keep it handy for ticket collection and identity checks.

💡
Consider Train Classes

Second class is usually perfectly comfortable and economical. First class offers more space and slightly better amenities. For a 9-hour journey, first class might be worth the small upgrade for extra comfort, especially if you plan to work or relax extensively.

💡
Pack Snacks and Drinks

While trains often have dining cars and trolleys, having your own snacks, water, and perhaps a warm drink (hot water is usually available) will enhance your journey and save money. Be prepared for a long ride.

🛣️ The journey experience

Navigating China's vastness can seem daunting, but for a journey like Guilin to Beijing, you have excellent, efficient options. We'll help you decide between the high-speed train and flying, considering both speed and comfort. This route is a classic example where a good understanding of China's transport network makes all the difference, allowing you to maximize your travel time and minimize stress.

For this 1,700km route, your primary choices are high-speed rail and flying. The bullet train journey takes about 9 hours and costs around €121, offering a comfortable, scenic ride directly from city center to city center. Alternatively, a domestic flight will get you there in about 3 hours for approximately €80, though remember to factor in airport transfers and check-in times, which can add several hours to the total travel duration.

The high-speed rail network is indeed impressive but can be confusing. To avoid trains selling out, especially on popular routes like this, it's crucial to book several days in advance. Don't worry about needing a local ID; platforms like 12go.asia allow you to book Chinese trains from abroad using your passport, providing instant confirmation and peace of mind. Always double-check which specific station your train departs from to avoid last-minute confusion in these mega-cities.

Frequently asked questions — Guilin → Beijing

✨ Why visit Beijing?

  • Explore the majestic Forbidden City, the former imperial palace, and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Walk along the Great Wall of China at sections like Mutianyu or Badaling for breathtaking views.
  • Wander through the historic hutongs (narrow alleyways) of Beijing and discover local life.
  • Visit the serene Temple of Heaven, where emperors performed rituals for good harvests.
  • Discover the contemporary art scene in the 798 Art Zone, featuring galleries and studios.
🌙
Recommended stay
4 to 7 nights — to experience main attractions and delve into the city's culture and history.

☀️ When to visit Beijing?

CLIMAT CONTINENTAL HUMIDE

April to May or September to October — pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities and fewer tourists than summer.

Jan 😞
Feb 😞
Mar 😐
Apr 😊
May 😊
Jun 😐
Jul 😐
Aug 😐
Sep 😊
Oct 😊
Nov 😐
Dec 😞
📍
In Beijing — Plan your stay
Accommodation, activities and tips selected for you
🏨 Accommodation
Hotels in Beijing
Compare the best rates available
via trip.com

What to do in Beijing?

Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you

INCONTOURNABLE
🏛️
Forbidden City & Tiananmen Square
Explore the majestic Forbidden City, the former imperial palace, and the vast Tiananmen Square. Book your Forbidden City tickets online several days in advance, as same-day tickets are often unavailable. Allow a full morning to truly appreciate its scale and history. Entrance to Tiananmen Square is free but requires security checks.
万里
Great Wall at Mutianyu
Hike a well-preserved section of the Great Wall at Mutianyu, known for its stunning views and fewer crowds than Badaling. Take the cable car up and the toboggan down for a fun experience. Consider arriving early in the morning, around 8:30 AM, to beat the tour groups. Budget about 25€ for the entrance and cable car/toboggan combo.
⛩️
Temple of Heaven Park
Wander through the sprawling Temple of Heaven Park, where emperors once prayed for good harvests. Observe locals practicing tai chi, calligraphy, and traditional dances. The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests is truly iconic. Entry to the park is around 2€, with additional fees (around 4€) for the main temples. Best visited in the morning.
🍜
Beijing Roast Duck Feast
Indulge in an authentic Beijing Roast Duck experience. Renowned for its crispy skin and tender meat, it's a culinary must-do. Several restaurants specialize in it; consider booking ahead, especially for dinner. Expect to pay around 30-50€ per person for a full duck meal, depending on the establishment. Ask for guidance on how to properly wrap it.
🌳
Summer Palace Grandeur
Explore the magnificent Summer Palace, a vast complex of lakes, gardens, and palaces. Rent a small boat on Kunming Lake for unique views or simply stroll through the Long Corridor. Allow at least half a day. Entry is about 4€, with combined tickets including main attractions around 9€. Take the subway to make transport easy.
🔔
Lama Temple (Yonghegong)
Visit the stunning Yonghegong Lama Temple, one of the most important Tibetan Buddhist monasteries outside Tibet. Marvel at the intricate architecture and the impressive Maitreya Buddha statue carved from a single sandalwood tree. Arrive shortly after opening (9 AM) for a quieter experience. Entry fee is around 4€, including an incense stick.
🚲
Hutong Alley Exploration
Cycle or walk through Beijing's historic hutongs, narrow alleyways offering a glimpse into traditional local life. Explore Nanluoguxiang for bustling shops or venture into quieter lanes around Gulou (Drum Tower) for a more authentic feel. Consider a guided rickshaw tour (from 15€) to learn about their history and architecture.
🎨
798 Art District Wander
Immerse yourself in contemporary Chinese art at the 798 Art District, a former industrial zone transformed into a hub of galleries, studios, and cafes. It's a fantastic spot for photography and discovering unique artworks. Admission to the district is free, though some galleries might charge a small fee (rare). Perfect for an afternoon stroll.

⏱️ How long to visit Beijing?

4 to 7 days

For an independent traveler, plan at least 4-5 days to cover the main attractions like the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Temple of Heaven without rushing. With 7 days, you can explore more local neighborhoods and hidden gems. Allocate a full day for the Great Wall.

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