Day 1: Explore the Ancient Wonders of Beijing

Morning:

1. The Forbidden City (Palace Museum)

• What to see: The Forbidden City is a must-see landmark, serving as the imperial palace for 24 emperors over nearly 500 years. It is one of the most well-preserved historical sites in the world, featuring stunning architecture, ancient artifacts, and beautiful gardens.
• Tip: Arrive early to avoid the crowds. The palace is vast, so plan on spending around 2-3 hours here.

2. Tiananmen Square

• What to see: Just outside the Forbidden City lies Tiananmen Square, the heart of Beijing and one of the largest public squares in the world. The square is home to several important landmarks, including the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong, the National Museum of China, and the Gate of Heavenly Peace.
• Tip: Take some time to walk around the square and visit the surrounding monuments. It’s a great place to observe daily life in Beijing.

Afternoon:

3. Temple of Heaven (Tiantan Park)

• What to see: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Temple of Heaven is a symbol of China’s imperial past. It was used for religious ceremonies and prayer to ensure good harvests. The complex includes the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, the Circular Mound Altar, and the Echo Wall.
• Tip: The surrounding Tiantan Park is great for a peaceful walk and for observing locals practicing tai chi or playing games like cards and chess.

4. Qianmen Street

• What to see: After visiting the Temple of Heaven, head to Qianmen Street, a bustling historical area with traditional architecture, local shops, and eateries. It’s a great spot for buying souvenirs, sampling Beijing snacks, and experiencing the local atmosphere.

Evening:

5. Peking Duck Dinner

• Where to eat: A trip to Beijing is not complete without tasting Peking Duck. Head to a famous restaurant like Quanjude or Da Dong for an authentic, mouth-watering experience. The crispy skin and tender meat are served with pancakes, hoisin sauce, and scallions.
• Tip: Make a reservation in advance, especially if you’re visiting during peak hours.

Day 2: Beijing’s Cultural and Historical Heart

Morning:

1. The Great Wall of China (Mutianyu or Badaling)

• What to see: A visit to the Great Wall of China is a must when in Beijing. The two most popular sections to visit are Mutianyu (less crowded and more scenic) and Badaling (the most famous and well-preserved). Both sections offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and an opportunity to walk along the ancient wall.
• Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some strenuous walking, especially if you choose to hike up to the wall.

Afternoon:

2. Summer Palace (Yiheyuan)

• What to see: After your visit to the Great Wall, head to the Summer Palace, a beautiful imperial garden and retreat used by the royal family during the Qing Dynasty. Highlights include the Long Corridor, the Kunming Lake, the Seventeen-Arch Bridge, and the Tower of Buddhist Incense.
• Tip: If you’re visiting during the summer months, a boat ride on Kunming Lake is a great way to relax and enjoy the scenery.

3. The Olympic Park (Bird’s Nest and Water Cube)

• What to see: If you’re interested in modern Beijing, the Olympic Park is a must-see. This area was the site of the 2008 Summer Olympics and includes iconic structures like the Bird’s Nest (National Stadium) and the Water Cube (National Aquatics Center).
• Tip: It’s free to walk around the park, but if you want to go inside the Bird’s Nest or the Water Cube, you’ll need to purchase tickets.

Evening:

4. Wangfujing Street

• What to see: Spend the evening exploring Wangfujing Street, one of Beijing’s most famous shopping streets. This pedestrian-only street is lined with high-end shops, department stores, and snack stalls offering local delicacies like skewered meats, candied fruits, and scorpions on sticks.
• Tip: This is also a great place to pick up some last-minute souvenirs or enjoy a relaxing evening stroll.

Day 3: Contemporary Beijing and Hidden Gems

Morning:

1. 798 Art District

• What to see: If you’re interested in modern art, head to 798 Art District. This former industrial complex is now home to galleries, cafes, and shops, showcasing contemporary Chinese art and culture. You can spend a couple of hours here exploring the unique exhibitions and enjoying the creative atmosphere.
• Tip: The art district is also home to some great coffee shops and art-themed souvenirs, so take your time to explore.

2. Lama Temple (Yonghe Temple)

• What to see: The Lama Temple is one of the largest and most important Tibetan Buddhist temples outside Tibet. The temple is known for its stunning architecture, incense offerings, and the impressive Maitreya Buddha statue made from a single piece of sandalwood.
• Tip: Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience and avoid the crowds.

Afternoon:

3. Beihai Park

• What to see: Beihai Park is one of the oldest and most well-preserved imperial gardens in China. The park is centered around a beautiful lake with an island, where you’ll find the White Dagoba (a Tibetan-style pagoda). You can rent a boat to explore the lake or just enjoy a stroll through the scenic gardens.
• Tip: This is a quieter spot compared to other tourist attractions, making it perfect for a relaxing afternoon.

4. Houhai Lakes (Back Lakes)

• What to see: Houhai is a charming area of traditional hutongs (narrow lanes) surrounding a network of lakes. It’s a great place to wander, with plenty of bars, cafes, and shops. You can rent a bike or simply walk along the water, watching locals play mahjong or enjoy tea.
• Tip: The area comes alive in the evening when the cafes and restaurants around the lakes are bustling with activity.

Evening:

5. Beijing Opera or Kung Fu Show

• What to see: For a cultural evening, consider attending a Peking Opera performance or a Kung Fu Show. The Peking Opera is a traditional Chinese art form that combines singing, acting, and acrobatics, while the Kung Fu Show offers an exhilarating performance of martial arts.
• Tip: Tickets should be booked in advance, especially for popular performances like the Legend of Kung Fu at the Red Theatre.

Beijing is a city that beautifully balances its ancient history with modern development. With three days, you can experience some of the city’s most famous landmarks, learn about its rich cultural heritage, and explore some hidden gems. From the historic Forbidden City and Great Wall of China to the vibrant art scene in 798 Art District, there’s something for every traveler.

For a personalized itinerary and guided tours, HelloChinaTrip.com can help you make the most of your 3 days in Beijing, ensuring a smooth and memorable experience.