Although walking the entire length of the Great Wall of China can take a ridiculous amount of time (we’re talking more than a year, easy), many people still take time during their vacations in China to visit this amazing structure, appreciate the heritage of it and see just how impressive the architects and engineers of ancient civilizations were. Like the Great Pyramid of Giza or the site of Chichen Itza in Mexico, the Great Wall of China is an absolute marvel in regards to ancient persistence, ingenuity and ability to overcome the odds.

With Beijing likely being the best and liveliest city near the Great Wall, there are many great luxury hotels in the area and some seriously fun and interesting things to do as well, for the days that you’re not planning on spending at the Great Wall, that is.