Beijing 3 days

The vast imperial palace complex that served as the home of emperors and the ceremonial and political center of Chinese government for almost 500 years. Explore its magnificent halls, courtyards, and gardens.

• Book tickets online in advance to avoid long queues.
• Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
• Consider hiring a guide or using an audio guide for deeper historical context.

Located directly north of the Forbidden City, this park offers panoramic views of the imperial palace from its summit. It's a perfect spot for photos and a moment of reflection after your visit to the Forbidden City.

• Climb to the Wanchun Pavilion for the best views.
• Visit in the late afternoon for golden hour lighting.

A bustling pedestrian street famous for its wide array of street food and local snacks. While it caters to tourists, it's still a vibrant place to experience Beijing's culinary scene.

• Be adventurous and try a variety of local delicacies.
• Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak hours.

A renowned restaurant chain famous for its Peking Duck, prepared using traditional methods. Enjoy a classic Beijing culinary experience.

• Make reservations, especially for dinner.
• Order the Peking Duck in advance as it takes time to prepare.

A UNESCO World Heritage site where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties performed annual rites of prayer to Heaven. The park is also a popular spot for locals to practice tai chi, sing, and dance.

• Arrive early to see locals engaging in morning activities.
• Don't miss the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, an architectural marvel.

A sprawling complex of former industrial buildings transformed into a vibrant hub for contemporary art galleries, studios, cafes, and boutiques. It's a great place to wander and discover unique art pieces.

• Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the large area.
• Check for any special exhibitions or events happening during your visit.

Famous for its vibrant nightlife and an astonishing concentration of restaurants, particularly those specializing in spicy crayfish and hot pot. The street is illuminated by hundreds of red lanterns.

• Visit in the evening when the street truly comes alive.
• Be prepared for a lively and sometimes noisy atmosphere.

A popular restaurant in the Ghost Street area offering authentic and flavorful Sichuan cuisine. It's known for its spicy dishes and lively ambiance.

• Inform your server about your spice tolerance.
• Try the Mapo Tofu and Kung Pao Chicken.

A beautifully restored section of the Great Wall known for its stunning scenery and fewer crowds compared to Badaling. It features watchtowers and is surrounded by lush forests.

• Take the cable car up and the toboggan down for a fun experience.
• Allow ample travel time as it's about a 1.5-2 hour drive from central Beijing.
• Wear layers as the weather can change.

A masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design, featuring Kunming Lake and the Longevity Hill. It was an imperial garden and a temporary dwelling for the empress dowager.

• Take a boat ride on Kunming Lake for a different perspective.
• Explore the Long Corridor, adorned with thousands of paintings.

A scenic area with a large lake, offering a relaxed atmosphere with numerous bars, restaurants, and teahouses. It's a great place for a leisurely evening stroll and drinks.

• Enjoy a drink at one of the many lakeside bars.
• Consider a rickshaw tour around the lakes.