How to Plan a 1 to 3 Days' Tour to Beijing

Beijing, the capital of China, is a city rich in history and culture. With a blend of ancient landmarks and modern architecture, it offers visitors a unique experience. A trip of 1 to 3 days can cover most of the must-see attractions depending on your interests. Whether you're drawn to historical sites, vibrant neighborhoods, or natural landscapes, there's something for everyone in this dynamic city.

Here, we offer you some ideas to plan a day trip to Beijing. You can combine the daily itineraries to create your own 2 or 3-day plan. We also provide suggested itineraries for 1 to 3 days for your reference.

How to Plan a Day Trip in Beijing

If it's your first visit, we suggest starting with the Temple of Heaven, the Forbidden City, and Jingshan Park.

Morning: Temple of Heaven and Qianmen Street

Begin your day early at the Temple of Heaven, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you can witness local residents practicing morning exercises, including traditional activities like Tai Chi. Feel free to join in or find a teacher to guide you.

Afterward, take a 30-minute walk to Qianmen Street, where you can admire restored early 20th-century architecture. Explore time-honored brand stores and nearby hutongs, and enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the local eateries.

Afternoon: Forbidden City and Jingshan Park

After lunch, head to the Forbidden City, just a 10-minute drive from Qianmen Street. Explore the central axis, where you can visit the main halls and museums—a journey that will take about 2 hours. If you're particularly interested in the history and architecture, consider spending an additional 2 hours to discover more palaces and gardens away from the main route.

Once you finish your tour of the Forbidden City, cross the street to Jingshan Park. Ascend the hill (about a 30-minute hike) for a stunning panoramic view of the Forbidden City and enjoy the beautiful sunset.

Important Notice: The Forbidden City is closed every Monday. If you plan to visit on a Monday, please consider adjusting your itinerary. Alternatively, you can travel with us, and we will manage your schedule to ensure you visit all the attractions on your list.

How to Plan a Day Trip to the Great Wall of Beijing

If visiting the Great Wall is on your agenda, a day trip is sufficient to explore one section. Here are some recommended sections:

• Badaling: The most popular section among domestic visitors, known for its well-preserved and restored paths. It offers facilities like cable cars, making it accessible for senior travelers and travelers in wheelchairs. Expect crowds here.
• Mutianyu: Favored by foreign travelers, this section boasts impressive views and is less crowded than Badaling. It's family-friendly and suitable for children.
• Jinshanling: Ideal for hikers, this section preserves the original structure of the Great Wall. It has fewer facilities and fewer visitors, providing a grander view than Mutianyu. Be prepared for a more physical hike here.
• Jiankou: Known as the wild section, Jiankou is steep and challenging, with no facilities available. It's the least crowded and best suited for experienced hikers with professional equipment.

How to Plan a Day Trip to the Summer Palace of Beijing

If you have an extra day in Beijing after visiting the Forbidden City and the Great Wall, consider these attractions:

• Summer Palace: This expansive imperial garden features beautiful lakes, gardens, and palaces. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll and offers a glimpse into China's imperial history.
• Old Summer Palace: Known for its stunning ruins, the Old Summer Palace showcases the remnants of the opulent gardens and architecture that once existed. The contrast between the two palaces highlights the cultural changes over time.

How to Plan a 2 or 3 Day Trip to Beijing

When planning a trip to Beijing, you have the flexibility to combine various attractions based on the number of days you have to explore. Here's a suggested itinerary for 1, 2, or 3 days to ensure you experience the highlights of this fascinating city.

1-Day Itinerary

If you have only 1 day, you can choose one of the following options:

Option 1: Temple of Heaven + Forbidden City

Start your day at the Temple of Heaven (also visit Qianmen if you have time). Afterward, head to the Forbidden City. This option provides a rich cultural experience in a single day.

Option 2: Great Wall

Alternatively, if the Great Wall is your primary interest, dedicate your day to visiting one of its sections.

2-Day Itinerary

If you have 2 days, you can combine attractions for a more immersive experience:

Day 1: Temple of Heaven & Forbidden City.

Day 2: The Great Wall.

3-Day Itinerary

If you have 3 days, you can enjoy a well-rounded experience of Beijing:

Day 1: Temple of Heaven & Forbidden City.

Day 2: The Great Wall.

Day 3: Visit the Summer Palace in the morning. In the afternoon, consider exploring the Old Summer Palace or another attraction, such as Beihai Park or hutongs, to round out your experience.

Customized Itineraries

If you'd like a more personalized experience, feel free to contact us to create your own customized itinerary. Whether you want to focus on specific interests like art, cuisine, or history, we can help tailor your trip to make the most of your time in Beijing.

With these flexible options, you can design a trip that best suits your preferences and ensures you make the most of your visit to one of the world's most captivating cities.

Other Attractions in Beijing

If you have already visited the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, and the Summer Palace, consider adding these attractions to your itinerary for a more in-depth experience:

• Hutongs: Explore Beijing's traditional hutongs, narrow alleyways that showcase the city's rich history. Wander through charming lanes filled with courtyard homes, local shops, and eateries, offering a glimpse into the everyday lives of Beijingers.
• Beijing National Stadium (Bird's Nest): The iconic Bird's Nest, built for the 2008 Olympics, is a stunning architectural feat. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about its design and significance, or simply enjoy the impressive structure in the surrounding Olympic Park.
• 798 Art District: The 798 Art District is a vibrant contemporary art hub located in a former industrial complex. Featuring galleries, studios, and boutiques, it's a great place to discover innovative artworks and engage with Beijing's modern creative scene.
• Lama Temple (Yonghe Temple): The Lama Temple is one of the largest Tibetan Buddhist temples in the world, renowned for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings. Visitors can admire beautiful statues, including a massive Maitreya Buddha, in a peaceful spiritual setting.
• Beihai Park: Beihai Park is one of the oldest imperial gardens in China, featuring a large lake, beautiful pavilions, and the iconic White Dagoba. It's an ideal spot for leisurely walks, boat rides, and enjoying serene views of the landscape.

These attractions provide diverse experiences, allowing you to delve deeper into the rich tapestry of Beijing's history, culture, and modernity.

With careful planning, your visit to Beijing can be a memorable journey through its rich history and vibrant culture. Whether you have a day or several, there's always something new to discover in this remarkable city.