Day 1
Historical Beijing
Morning
1. Tiananmen Square:
Start your day at the world’s largest public square, surrounded by landmarks like the Monument to the People’s Heroes and the Great Hall of the People.
• Time: 1 hour
• Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds.
2. Forbidden City (Palace Museum):
Walk through the imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties, exploring grand halls, intricate courtyards, and the emperor’s private chambers.
• Time: 3 hours
• Highlight: The Hall of Supreme Harmony and the Clock Exhibition Hall.
• Tip: Book tickets online in advance to skip queues.
Lunch
Enjoy traditional Peking duck at Quanjude or Dadong, two of Beijing’s famous roast duck restaurants.
Afternoon
Jingshan Park:
Climb to the top of the hill for panoramic views of the Forbidden City and central Beijing.
• Time: 1 hour
• Tip: Visit in the late afternoon for beautiful lighting.
Evening
Wangfujing Snack Street:
Stroll through this lively food street to sample local specialties like sugar-coated hawthorn skewers, fried scorpions, or steamed buns.
• Optional: Visit the Wangfujing Bookstore for a cultural experience.
Day 2
Cultural Immersion
Morning
Temple of Heaven (Tiantan Park):
Visit this iconic site where emperors prayed for good harvests. Enjoy the peaceful park, where locals practice tai chi and traditional dance.
• Time: 2 hours
• Highlight: The Circular Mound Altar and the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests.
Lunch
Stop by a local restaurant for Beijing noodles with soybean paste (zhajiangmian).
Afternoon
Hutong Tour:
Explore Beijing’s traditional alleyways on foot or by rickshaw. Visit family courtyards, historic homes, and local tea houses.
• Time: 2-3 hours
• Highlight: Visit Nanluoguxiang for trendy shops and cafes.
Evening
Kung Fu Show at Red Theatre:
Watch a spectacular performance combining martial arts, acrobatics, and storytelling.
• Time: 1.5 hours
Day 3
Modern Beijing and Optional Great Wall
Option A: Modern Beijing
Morning
798 Art District:
Explore this vibrant area filled with contemporary art galleries, street art, and cafes.
• Time: 2-3 hours
Lunch
Enjoy creative Chinese fusion dishes at a trendy restaurant in the 798 Art District.
Afternoon
Beijing Olympic Park:
Visit the iconic Bird’s Nest and Water Cube from the 2008 Olympics.
• Optional: Take a Segway tour of the park.
Option B: Great Wall of China
Morning
Mutianyu Great Wall:
A restored section with stunning views.
• Time: 5 hours (including travel)
• Highlight: Take the cable car up and toboggan down for a fun experience.
• Tip: Depart early to maximize your time.
Evening
Foot Massage:
Return to Beijing and relax with a traditional Chinese foot massage.