If you want to experience the best of Beijing without feeling rushed or worn out, this 3-day itinerary is perfect for you. It offers a leisurely pace that covers the city’s top attractions, allowing you to enjoy the rich history, culture, and vibrant local life. From iconic landmarks like the Forbidden City and the Great Wall to relaxing boat rides and delicious food stops, this guide ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey through Beijing’s heart.
Day 1: Exploring the Central Axis of Beijing
Start your day by witnessing the iconic flag-raising ceremony at Tiananmen Square. If you’re not an early riser, you can skip this part and begin with the next attraction. After the flag ceremony, grab breakfast nearby before heading to the Tiananmen Gate Tower for a stunning view of the square.
Next, enter the Forbidden City through Meridian Gate (午门) and spend a few hours exploring this magnificent palace complex. Don’t miss the ice cellar where you can enjoy some food and get a stamp for your visit. Be sure to try the Forbidden City’s special ice cream, a unique and delightful treat. After finishing your tour, exit through the Shenwu Gate and head to Jingshan Park, located just across the street. The park is not large but offers a fantastic bird’s-eye view of the Forbidden City—it’s a perfect photo spot for capturing the imperial “kingdom.”
Continue your walk from Jingshan Park to Beihai Park, one of the oldest and most well-preserved imperial gardens in China. It’s just a short walk through a small alley to the east entrance. You can relax by the lake, enjoy the pavilions, or rent a boat for a peaceful ride.
Exit through the north gate of Beihai Park, cross the street, and you’ll find yourself at Shichahai, a scenic area with many dining options and local snacks, including the popular Huguo Temple Snacks (护国寺小吃). From there, take a stroll along Yandai Xiejie (Smoky Alley), a charming street lined with shops and cafes. If you need a break, stop by Tang Fang Coffee, which has great views from its terrace. In the evening, visit the Drum Tower for some impressive photos. If you still have energy, end your day with dinner in Nanluoguxiang, a famous alley filled with trendy restaurants and bars.
Day 2: Culture and History
Sleep in and start your day leisurely, heading to the south side of Chang’an Avenue. Begin with a visit to the National Museum of China. Remember to book tickets in advance as it’s a popular spot and hard to get last-minute reservations. Spend half the day here exploring the exhibits that showcase China’s long history and culture. Afterward, cross Tiananmen Square and head to Qianmen for lunch. This area is home to many great restaurants, and there are also plenty of cafes where you can relax.
After lunch, take a short ride to Temple of Heaven, which is just 20 minutes away by taxi. The park is one of Beijing’s most famous historical sites, and you’ll want to spend some time strolling through its vast grounds. The ancient Temple of Heaven was used for imperial ceremonies, and today it remains an iconic symbol of Chinese architecture and culture.
Day 3: The Great Wall and Imperial Gardens
This day will be packed with iconic sightseeing, so start early to make the most of it. First, head to the Great Wall. The closest section to Beijing is Mutianyu or Badaling, both of which are accessible by car or bus. The Great Wall is a must-see, and while it’s a bit far from the city center, it’s worth the early start. Once you’re at the Wall, take time to enjoy the breathtaking views.
In the afternoon, head to Summer Palace or Yuanmingyuan (Old Summer Palace). Both are stunning imperial gardens with beautiful landscapes. If you visit during the summer, you can take a boat ride through the lotus flowers, which is a unique experience. In spring, the willow trees along the Kunming Lake in Summer Palace create a picturesque scene.
End your day with a visit to the Olympic Park, home to the Bird’s Nest and the Water Cube. The area looks incredible at night when the buildings are illuminated. The nearby area is perfect for a leisurely dinner, where you can enjoy barbecue by the lakeside. The cool evening breeze and the vibrant atmosphere make it a wonderful way to conclude your trip.