I've lived in Beijing for 3 years and have hosted countless visitors. Here's a realistic 3-day itinerary that covers the highlights without exhausting you.
**Day 1: The Imperial Tour**
- Morning: Forbidden City (book tickets online in advance, spend 3-4 hours)
- Afternoon: Jingshan Park (best view of Forbidden City from above)
- Evening: Wangfujing snack street (try the candied hawthorn!)
**Day 2: The Great Wall**
- Take an early bus or private car to Mutianyu (less crowded than Badaling)
- Cable car up, toboggan down (it's as fun as it sounds!)
- Evening: Watch the Olympics sites lit up (Bird's Nest + Water Cube)
**Day 3: Temples and Hutongs**
- Morning: Temple of Heaven (locals do tai chi here around 6-8am)
- Afternoon: Hutongs near Bell Tower (rent a bike or take a rickshaw)
- Evening: Peking duck dinner (Quanjude is touristy but consistent)
**Money-saving tip:** Buy a 72-hour subway pass at any station. Unlimited rides for about $8.
**Where to stay:** Dongsi or Zhangzizhonglu areas – affordable, central, near subway lines 5 and 6.
Happy to answer specific questions about Beijing travel!
Posted on 2026-5-12 19:50:49