Beijing, a city steeped in history and culture, offers a treasure trove of experiences for visitors. From the majestic Forbidden City to the awe-inspiring Great Wall, each corner of this bustling metropolis holds stories waiting to be discovered.
If you’re planning a short trip three day trip to Beijing and want to make the most of your time, here’s a curated 3-day itinerary that promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of China’s capital.
As an expat who has lived in Beijing for 5+ years and seen all the changes through Covid times, I know the best way to arrange day trips in Beijing and the best places to eat and drink in the city.
Here’s Beijing in 72 Hours – a packed itinerary for adventurers and foodies!
Things to Know Before Visiting Beijing
Beijing is HUGE and transportation between places will take time. While the city boasts an extensive public transportation network, including subways, buses, and taxis, it’s important to plan for sufficient time for travel between destinations.
Many sites also require a lot of walking and being on your feet. From exploring the sprawling grounds of the Forbidden City to hiking along the ancient ramparts of the Great Wall, many of Beijing’s attractions entail substantial amounts of walking and physical activity.
Plan accordingly with what you wear, your energy, and the time it will take you to go around. Given the extensive walking and potential for long days of exploration, it’s crucial to plan accordingly in terms of attire, energy levels, and time management. Consider carrying a refillable water bottle and snacks to stay hydrated and energized while on the go.
Consider hiring a driver for day trips to major attractions. To streamline transportation logistics and maximize your time in Beijing, consider hiring a driver for day trips to major attractions such as the Great Wall or other sites located outside the city center. Having a dedicated driver can alleviate the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads and dealing with transportation challenges, allowing you to focus on enjoying the sights and experiences without worrying about the logistics of getting there.
Interested in hiring a driver in Beijing? Add my WeChat below and I’ll connect you with a driver service! Alternatively, if you’re looking for a tour guide who can help share more information about the history and culture of the sites, and help you as you go around the city, I can also connect you with a tour guide.
Day 1: The Forbidden City & Hutongs
Morning:
Start your day at The Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as the imperial palace for centuries. Traverse through its grand halls, ornate pavilions, and meticulously manicured gardens, and feel transported to a bygone era. Read my Guide To Visiting the Forbidden City for the best places to go and how long to spend there.
Forbidden City Tickets: It is highly recommended to book your Forbidden City tickets in advance, as they sell out fast! You can use the official website to book (has an English option). Book your tickets here.
If tickets are sold out online no worries! Foreigners can now buy their tickets directly at the ticket office on the day: How To Get Tickets for the Forbidden City If They Are Sold Out Online 2025.
Bonus Tip: Embrace the spirit of ancient China by renting and dressing up in traditional Hanfu attire, adding an extra layer of fun and culture to your Forbidden City experience. Learn all about How To Rent Traditional Clothing in China.
As you exit out of the North Gate of the Forbidden City, head directly across the street to Jingshan Park, where you can catch panoramic views of the Forbidden City and Beijing’s skyline.
Afternoon: Head up to the Gulou hutong area for lunch. I recommend eating at Mr. Shi’s Dumplings in the Baochao Hutong.
Nestled in a Hutong alley, Mr. Shi’s Dumplings is a hidden gem with some of the most delicious dumplings in town. Their traditional jiaozi, boiled to perfection, offer a delightful array of fillings including pork, shrimp, and vegetarian options. For those craving a crispy bite, the guotie, or fried dumplings, present a tantalizing twist. With a menu available in both English and Chinese, navigating Mr. Shi’s Dumplings is a breeze, making it a great spot for first-time travelers to China.
Address: Gulou East Street Baochao Hutong No.88
Alternatively, you can find another local restaurant around the hutongs to try other dishes like Zhajiangmian!
Afterwards, wander through the narrow alleyways of the nearby Hutongs to see more of Beijing’s traditional way of life. You can stop by the Drum and Bell towers as well. If you’re tired, you can also take a break at a hutong coffee shop like Alba Cafe, Still Water, or Cafe Zarah.
Evening
I believe the best way to experience Beijing’s culinary depth and history is to take a local Beijing food tour, where you’ll uncover hidden gems and local family-run Hutong restaurants you would not otherwise know about! Whether it’s your first time in China, first time in Beijing, or you’ve been a Beijing expat like me for several years, you’ll eat some incredible food and learn more about Beijing’s hutong culture.
I recommend two food tour companies, both with tours in many cities across China. I’ve been on dinner tours in Beijing for both and enjoyed them each! Very local restaurants, great guides, and an awesome way to explore the city.
- Lost Plate Food Tours (Use my code for a discount: RACHELMEETSCHINA)
- UnTour Food Tours (Scan the QR code below or click the link)
Day 2: The Great Wall & Peking Duck
Morning: Head to Mutianyu Great Wall
Take an adventure to one of the world’s most iconic landmarks – the Great Wall of China. Book a driver to take you to Mutianyu, a section of the wall known for its breathtaking scenery and relatively fewer crowds.
Note: There are many sections of the Great Wall to visit, and this is the one I most recommend to first time China visitors because of it’s convenient access from Beijing, and is great for travelers of all ages, whether you have children or elderly people. Mutianyu also has restaurant and food options available, even a Subway sandwich shop. It also has a fun toboggan slide you can ride down the wall!
Read more about Mutianyu Great Wall or read about other sections of the Great Wall you can visit: Which Section of the Great Wall Is Best To Visit?
Afternoon:
After conquering the Wall, reward yourself with a thrilling toboggan ride down!
Evening:
After a big day out on the wall, time to try Beijing’s famous Peking duck! I recommend going to Hometown Palace, located in a hutong courtyard. Dive into some famous Peking duck pancakes and other delicious Chinese cuisines.
Address: 荷唐·殿 Home Town Palace 地安门东大街89号
If you’re not too tired after a day hiking, just two minutes away from Home Town Palace is Nanluoguxiang Walking Street, a vibrant alleyway lined with quaint shops, lively bars, and traditional courtyard homes. Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere as you explore this charming neighborhood.
Day 3: Temples, Acrobat Show, and Nightlife
Morning:
Begin your day with a visit to the serene Lama Temple, one of the largest and most well-preserved Tibetan Buddhist monasteries outside of Tibet. Wander through its ornate halls and marvel at the towering statue of Maitreya Buddha.
Afterwards for lunch or a coffee break, walk across the street to the trendy Wudaoying Hutong where there are many nice cafes, rooftops, restaurants and shops.
Afternoon:
Continue your cultural exploration with a visit to the Temple of Heaven, an architectural masterpiece where emperors once conducted solemn rituals to ensure good harvests. Admire the intricate design of the temple complex and soak in the tranquil ambiance of its surrounding gardens.
Early Evening:
Prepare to be dazzled by a mesmerizing Red Theatre-Flying Acrobatic Show 剧场名字:红剧场-杂技 (飞翔) where performers showcase extraordinary feats of agility, balance, and precision. Sit back, relax, and be amazed by the talent on display.
This location is very close to the Temple of Heaven, which is why I recommend the Acrobatic show right after visiting the temple.
Address: 44 Xingfu Street, Dongcheng District (Chongwen District Workers’ Cultural Palace)
剧场地址: 北京市东城区幸福大街44号崇文区工人文化宫内。
Night:
Conclude your Beijing adventure with dinner and drinks in the vibrant Sanlitun area, known for its eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, and nightlife venues. Toast to unforgettable memories as you bid farewell to this enchanting city.
Additional Recommendations:
If you find yourself with extra time, consider exploring these additional attractions:
- 798 Art District: Immerse yourself in Beijing’s contemporary art scene with a visit to this vibrant art district, housed in a former factory complex.
- Beihai Park: Take a leisurely stroll through this picturesque park, dotted with historic temples, pavilions, and a serene lake.
Read more about my Top 10 Places to Visit in Beijing for First-Timers.
Things to Pass on in Beijing for a short weekend trip:
These are just my personal recommendations as someone who has lived in Beijing for 5+ years and had many friends visit me over the years.
For a short trip to Beijing, I feel it’s really important to plan where you go, the cultural attractions, and the transportation time. Feel free to choose and plan your trip according to your own preferences!
With limited time in Beijing, I would probably skip:
- Wangfujing: The famous night market here no longer exists, making it less appealing for tourists seeking that traditional atmosphere. It’s just a modern shopping area with convenient hotel options, so staying in this area isn’t a bad idea. But if you’re going here solely to visit a market place, I much prefer the Beijing Gulou hutongs for an authentic Beijing feeling.
- Summer Palace: Although undeniably beautiful, the Summer Palace is located quite far from central Beijing, requiring a significant amount of travel time. With a short trip, spending several hours commuting to and from the Summer Palace may not be the most efficient use of time. Instead, opting for closer attractions such as Beihai Park or Houhai Lake allows for more time for exploration and enjoyment without the hassle of long journeys.
With this itinerary, you’re sure to uncover the essence of Beijing – a city where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modernity, creating an unforgettable tapestry of experiences. So pack your bags, embark on this journey, and let Beijing’s rich history and vibrant culture captivate your soul.
