Beijing 3 days

The immense Forbidden City was the imperial palace for almost 500 years, from the Ming Dynasty to the end of the Qing Dynasty. Its vast courtyards, grand halls, and intricate architecture offer a profound glimpse into China's imperial past. Allow ample time to explore its many sections.

• Book tickets online in advance, especially during peak season.
• Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
• Consider a guided tour for deeper historical insights.

Located directly north of the Forbidden City, Jingshan Park offers panoramic views of the imperial palace from its central hill. It's a popular spot for locals to exercise and socialize, providing a pleasant contrast to the grandeur of the palace.

• Climb to the Wanchun Pavilion for the best views.
• Visit in the late afternoon for potentially softer light for photos.

This bustling pedestrian street is famous for its wide array of street food and souvenirs. While some vendors cater to tourists, it's a lively place to sample local snacks and experience Beijing's vibrant street culture.

• Be adventurous and try some of the more unusual snacks.
• Bargain politely for souvenirs.
• This area can get very crowded; keep an eye on your belongings.

A renowned establishment for authentic Beijing roast duck. Enjoy the crispy skin and tender meat, a culinary highlight of any trip to Beijing. Reservations are recommended.

• Order the whole duck to share; it's a quintessential experience.
• The restaurant is popular, so booking ahead is advised.

This imperial complex is where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties performed annual rites and prayers for good harvests. The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, with its striking blue-tiled, triple-gabled roof, is an iconic symbol of Beijing.

• Arrive early to see locals practicing tai chi and other exercises.
• The park surrounding the temple is as much a draw as the buildings themselves.

A former factory complex transformed into a vibrant hub for contemporary art. Explore numerous galleries, studios, cafes, and design shops, showcasing a dynamic range of Chinese and international art.

• Check gallery opening times as they can vary.
• This area is best explored on foot, so wear comfortable shoes.

One of Beijing's oldest and most popular hutongs, Nanluoguxiang is a narrow alley packed with trendy boutiques, cafes, bars, and snack shops. It offers a more commercialized but still charming glimpse into traditional Beijing alleyway life.

• Explore the smaller side alleys for hidden gems and quieter spots.
• It's a great place to find unique souvenirs.

This vibrant street comes alive at night, lined with hundreds of restaurants, many specializing in spicy crayfish and hot pot. The glowing red lanterns create a unique atmosphere, making it a popular dining destination.

• Be prepared for a lively and potentially noisy dining experience.
• Try the hot pot for a communal and interactive meal.

A beautifully restored section of the Great Wall, known for its scenic beauty and fewer crowds compared to Badaling. You can take a cable car or chairlift up and toboggan down for a fun experience.

• Allow for travel time, as Mutianyu is about a 1.5-2 hour drive from central Beijing.
• Consider hiring a private driver or joining a small group tour for convenience.
• The chairlift up and toboggan down are popular with families.

A masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design, the Summer Palace is an imperial retreat featuring stunning lakes, hills, and palaces. It was heavily damaged during the Anglo-French invasion of 1860 and rebuilt by Empress Dowager Cixi.

• Rent a boat on Kunming Lake for a different perspective.
• The Long Corridor is a beautifully painted, covered walkway along the lake.

This scenic area surrounding Houhai Lake is known for its lively bars, restaurants, and traditional courtyard houses (siheyuan). It's a great place for a leisurely stroll, enjoying the evening ambiance and perhaps a drink.

• Consider a rickshaw tour around the hutongs near Houhai.
• The atmosphere is more relaxed on weekdays.