3 Days in Beijing 2025: The Perfect Imperial Capital Itinerary
Discover Beijing in 3 perfect days: Forbidden City, Great Wall, hutongs, and modern art. Complete itinerary with timings, costs, and insider tips.
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What's the perfect 3-day itinerary for Beijing, China?
Spend Day 1 exploring the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square, Day 2 hiking the Great Wall and visiting the Summer Palace, and Day 3 discovering hutongs, temples, and the 798 Art District. Budget ¥200-400 per day including entrance fees.
Related questions:
- • How much does 3 days in Beijing cost?
- • What's the best area to stay in Beijing?
- • Is 3 days enough for Beijing?
Your 3-Day Beijing Adventure
TL;DR: Explore Beijing's highlights in 3 action-packed days covering 15 attractions with a budget of €¥600-¥2400 per person.
- 1 Day 1 explores imperial Beijing with Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven (¥100 in tickets)
- 2 Day 2 features the Great Wall at Mutianyu and Summer Palace (¥150 total fees)
- 3 Day 3 discovers local life in hutongs and modern art at 798 District (mostly free)
- 4 Book Forbidden City tickets online 7-10 days ahead - daily visitor limit enforced
- 5 Stay near Dongcheng or Chaoyang for best subway access to all attractions
- 6 Total 3-day budget: ¥600-900 (budget), ¥1200-1800 (mid-range), ¥2400+ (luxury) per person
Beijing offers an extraordinary 3-day journey through China's imperial past and dynamic present, where the Forbidden City's golden roofs gleam alongside modern skyscrapers, and ancient hutongs wind between contemporary art districts. This carefully crafted itinerary balances must-see UNESCO World Heritage sites with authentic local experiences, from climbing the Great Wall to savoring Peking duck in century-old restaurants. With daily costs ranging from ¥200 to ¥800 per person, Beijing accommodates all travel styles while delivering unparalleled historical immersion. The best time to visit is April-May or September-October when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clearer. This itinerary covers approximately 25 kilometers of exploration through the world's most populous capital.
Your 3-Day Beijing Itinerary
Day 1: Imperial Beijing & Ancient Wonders
Imperial History
Day 1
Step into China's imperial past exploring the world's largest palace complex and sacred temples where emperors once prayed
Total Cost
CNY200-600
Walking Distance
8 km
Activities
3 stops
Duration
Full Day
Today's Highlights
🌟 Pro Tip: Start early to beat the crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for today's 8 km journey!
Day 1 Schedule
Morning (8:00 AM - 12:30 PM)
Duration: 4.5 hours
Tiananmen Square
Start at the world's largest public square. See the Monument to the People's Heroes, Chairman Mao's Mausoleum, and the iconic portrait at Tiananmen Gate
💡 Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds. Bring passport for security check. Flag ceremony at sunrise is impressive
Forbidden City
Explore the massive imperial palace with 9,999 rooms. Don't miss the Hall of Supreme Harmony, Imperial Garden, and treasure galleries
💡 Tip: Book tickets online via Palace Museum website. Audio guide (¥40) highly recommended. Enter from south, exit north
Jingshan Park
Climb the artificial hill for the best panoramic view of the Forbidden City. The pavilion at the top offers stunning photo opportunities
💡 Tip: Exit Forbidden City from north gate directly into the park. Best photos in late afternoon light
🍽️ Lunch Recommendation
Quanjude Roast Duck Restaurant • Beijing's famous Peking duck
💰 CNY80-200 per person
Must try: Half roast duck, Duck soup, Traditional sides
📝 Peak lunch 12-1:30 PM, go early or late
Budget option: Qianmen Food Street for ¥20-40 options
Afternoon (2:00 PM - 6:00 PM)
Duration: 4 hours
Temple of Heaven
Visit the architectural masterpiece where emperors prayed for good harvests. The circular Hall of Prayer and Echo Wall demonstrate ancient acoustic engineering
💡 Tip: Combo ticket includes all buildings. Watch locals practicing tai chi, dancing, and playing cards
Hongqiao Pearl Market
Browse this famous market for pearls, electronics, and souvenirs. Great place to practice your bargaining skills
💡 Tip: Start bargaining at 30% of asking price. Check quality carefully. Cash only for best prices
Evening (6:30 PM onwards)
Duration: 3+ hours
Wangfujing Street
Explore Beijing's famous shopping street. Try exotic snacks at Wangfujing Snack Street including scorpions, starfish, and traditional treats
💡 Tip: Snack street is touristy but fun. Most insects are for show - locals eat the dumplings and desserts
🍽️ Dinner Recommendation
Dadong Roast Duck • Modern Beijing cuisine
💰 CNY150-300 per person
Must try: Lean roast duck, Duck liver, Seasonal vegetables
Upscale modern with lean roast duck specialty
🌙 Evening Options
- • Houhai Lake bars - ¥40-80 drinks with live music
- • National Centre for Performing Arts - check schedule
- • Night walk around illuminated Forbidden City moat
🚇 Getting Around
start Point: Tiananmen East or West subway station
end Point: Wangfujing area
public Transport: Line 1 to Tiananmen, Bus or taxi between sites
taxi Cost: ¥15-25 between attractions
walking Tips: Lots of walking, wear comfortable shoes
🏨 Where to Stay: Stay near Dongcheng District for walkability to Day 1 sights. Budget: ¥150-300 hostels, Mid-range: ¥400-800 hotels near Wangfujing
Day 2: Great Wall & Summer Palace
UNESCO Wonders
Day 2
Conquer one of humanity's greatest achievements and explore the imperial summer retreat with its magnificent gardens and lake
Total Cost
CNY250-700
Walking Distance
10 km
Activities
3 stops
Duration
Full Day
Today's Highlights
🌟 Pro Tip: Start early to beat the crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for today's 10 km journey!
Day 2 Schedule
Morning (7:00 AM - 1:00 PM)
Duration: 6 hours
Great Wall at Mutianyu
Experience the best-preserved section of the Great Wall with stunning mountain views. Less crowded than Badaling with better facilities
💡 Tip: Take the cable car up (¥120) and toboggan down (¥120) for fun. Bring water and snacks. Wear good walking shoes
🍽️ Lunch Recommendation
Subway at Mutianyu • Western fast food or local restaurants
💰 CNY30-80 per person
Afternoon (2:30 PM - 6:30 PM)
Duration: 4 hours
Summer Palace
Explore the vast imperial gardens with Kunming Lake, the Long Corridor with 14,000 paintings, and hillside temples
💡 Tip: Combo ticket includes all attractions. Boat ride across lake is scenic. Audio guide available
Suzhou Street
Recreated traditional shopping street along the Back Lake of Summer Palace
💡 Tip: Included in combo ticket. Nice for photos but shops are touristy
Evening (7:00 PM onwards)
Duration: 3+ hours
Olympic Park
See the Bird's Nest and Water Cube illuminated at night. The LED displays on the Water Cube are spectacular
💡 Tip: Best viewed from outside. Can enter Bird's Nest for ¥50 but exterior is more impressive
🍽️ Dinner Recommendation
Haidilao Hot Pot • Sichuan-style hot pot chain
💰 CNY80-150 per person
Must try: Spicy beef, Hand-pulled noodles show, Mushroom platter
Lively with excellent service, free manicures while waiting
🚇 Getting Around
great Wall Transport: Book tour (¥350-500) or public bus (¥80)
between Sites: Subway Line 4 from city to Summer Palace
return Route: Line 4 to city center, transfer as needed
timing Tips: Start early for Great Wall, allow full day
🏨 Where to Stay: Chaoyang District offers modern hotels with good nightlife access ¥500-1200
Day 3: Hutongs, Temples & Modern Art
Local Culture & Art
Day 3
Discover Beijing's traditional neighborhoods, spiritual sites, and contemporary art scene in a perfect blend of old and new
Total Cost
CNY150-500
Walking Distance
7 km
Activities
3 stops
Duration
Full Day
Today's Highlights
🌟 Pro Tip: Start early to beat the crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for today's 7 km journey!
Day 3 Schedule
Morning (9:00 AM - 12:30 PM)
Duration: 3.5 hours
Hutong Rickshaw Tour
Explore Beijing's traditional alleyways by rickshaw. Visit a local family's courtyard home and learn about hutong life
💡 Tip: Book through hotel or find rickshaws near Shichahai. Negotiate price beforehand. Morning tours less crowded
Nanluoguxiang Alley
Walk this restored hutong filled with boutiques, cafes, and traditional shops. Great for unique souvenirs and people watching
💡 Tip: Less crowded in mornings. Try the cheese tea or traditional yogurt. Bargain in smaller shops
🍽️ Lunch Recommendation
Mr. Shi's Dumplings • Traditional Beijing dumplings
💰 CNY30-60 per person
Must try: Pork and cabbage dumplings, Lamb and carrot, Vegetarian options
Tiny authentic spot loved by locals
Afternoon (1:30 PM - 5:30 PM)
Duration: 4 hours
Lama Temple (Yonghe Temple)
Beijing's most famous Tibetan Buddhist temple with active monks. The 26-meter sandalwood Buddha is incredible
💡 Tip: Buy incense at entrance (¥20-50). Respectful dress required. Photography restricted in halls
798 Art District
Explore contemporary art galleries in former military factories. Mix of international and Chinese artists with cafes and shops
💡 Tip: Free to wander, some galleries charge entry. UCCA and Pace Gallery are highlights. Weekends busier but more events
Evening (6:00 PM onwards)
Duration: 4+ hours
Sanlitun Taikoo Li
Browse Beijing's trendiest shopping area with international brands, local designers, and great restaurants
💡 Tip: North area more upscale, South area younger vibe. Great people watching from outdoor cafes
🏨 Where to Stay: For airport access, stay near Dongzhimen or Sanyuanqiao on Airport Express line
Complete Budget Breakdown
Complete 3-day costs per person in Beijing, excluding accommodation. All prices in CNY (¥) for 2025.
Budget Traveler
💰¥200-300 per day
per person per day
Daily Breakdown
Money-Saving Tips:
- • Eat at local restaurants and street food
- • Use public transport exclusively
- • Visit free attractions like parks
- • Buy groceries for breakfast
3-Day Total
¥600-900
Attractions
¥240-360 total
Meals
¥180-300 total
Transport
¥60-120
Extras
¥120-120 (souvenirs, snacks)
Mid-Range
💎¥400-600 per day
per person per day
Daily Breakdown
Money-Saving Tips:
- • Mix restaurant meals with local eateries
- • Book combo tickets for savings
- • Take taxis between distant sites
- • Try one upscale restaurant daily
3-Day Total
¥1200-1800
Attractions
¥450-600 total
Meals
¥450-750 total
Transport
¥150-300
Extras
¥150-150 (shopping, tips)
Luxury
👑¥800+ per day
per person per day
Daily Breakdown
Money-Saving Tips:
- • Hire English-speaking guides
- • Book restaurant experiences
- • Private transport throughout
- • Stay at 5-star hotels
3-Day Total
¥2400+
Attractions
¥600-900
Meals
¥1200+
Transport
¥600+
Extras
¥300+ (shopping, spa)
💡 Smart Money-Saving Tips
Beijing Museum Pass (¥120) covers many sites
Subway day pass (¥20) for unlimited rides
University cafeterias welcome public with cheap meals
Many temples free or under ¥10
Happy hour deals 5-8 PM at Western bars
✨ Worth the Splurge
Forbidden City guided tour - context worth ¥300
Peking duck at famous restaurant - ¥150-200
Great Wall cable car - saves energy ¥120
Private hutong tour - intimate experience ¥400
Note: All prices are estimates for 2025 and exclude accommodation. Actual costs may vary by season and booking timing. Prices shown in EUR.
Essential Planning Tips
Best Time to Visit
April-May and September-October offer the best weather with blue skies. Avoid Chinese holidays (Oct 1-7, Chinese New Year). Summer is hot and humid, winter cold but fewer crowds.
Getting Around
Beijing subway is excellent and cheap (¥3-9 per trip). Download Baidu Maps or Amap for navigation. DiDi (Chinese Uber) requires Chinese phone number. Avoid taxis without meters.
Advance Bookings Essential
Book Forbidden City tickets 7-10 days ahead online. Great Wall tours need 2-3 days notice. Restaurant reservations for Peking duck venues essential.
Digital Payments
Cash increasingly rare. Set up Alipay or WeChat Pay with tour guide's help, or bring sufficient cash. Many places don't accept foreign cards.
Language Barrier
Download Pleco dictionary app. Have hotel write destinations in Chinese. Learn 'bu yao' (don't want) for persistent vendors. Most signs have English.
Air Quality
Check AQI daily. Download Air Matters app. Bring PM2.5 masks for bad days. Many indoor attractions when air is poor.
Customize Your Itinerary
Customize your 3 days based on interests and travel style
History Deep Dive
- ✓ Add Ming Tombs to Great Wall day
- ✓ Include National Museum (Day 1)
- ✓ Visit Prince Gong's Mansion (Day 3)
- ✓ Book expert history guide
Additional cost: ¥200-400 for extra sites and guide
Food Lovers
- ✓ Morning food tour in hutongs (Day 3)
- ✓ Wangfujing night market deep dive (Day 1)
- ✓ Cooking class instead of 798 (Day 3)
- ✓ Ghost Street dinner adventure
Additional cost: ¥300-500 for tours and classes
Modern Beijing
- ✓ Skip Temple of Heaven for CBD towers (Day 1)
- ✓ Add Sanlitun/Guomao shopping (Day 2)
- ✓ Full day at 798 and Caochangdi art (Day 3)
- ✓ Rooftop bars and clubs nightly
Additional cost: ¥200-400 for venues and drinks
Family with Kids
- ✓ Beijing Zoo and Aquarium (Day 1)
- ✓ Cable car and toboggan at Wall (Day 2)
- ✓ Science & Technology Museum (Day 3)
- ✓ Shichahai boat ride
Savings: ¥100-200 on child discounts
Photography Focus
- ✓ Jingshan sunrise shoot (Day 1)
- ✓ Jinshanling Great Wall for fewer crowds (Day 2)
- ✓ Dawn tai chi at Temple of Heaven
- ✓ Blue hour at modern architecture
Budget Backpacker
- ✓ Free parks and temples only
- ✓ Street food and markets for all meals
- ✓ Walk more, subway less
- ✓ Skip touristy Great Wall for wild sections
Savings: ¥300-500 vs standard itinerary
When to Visit: Seasonal Guide
spring
March-May • 10-25°C, occasional sandstorms
Highlights:
- • Cherry blossoms in parks
- • Clearer skies
- • Pleasant temperatures
Events:
- • Tomb Sweeping Day
- • May Day holiday crowds
summer
June-August • 20-35°C, humid with rain
Highlights:
- • Long daylight hours
- • Lotus blooms in parks
- • Night markets active
Events:
- • Dragon Boat Festival
- • Summer Palace evening openings
fall
September-November • 5-20°C, dry and clear
Highlights:
- • Best weather
- • Fragrant Hills red leaves
- • Clear mountain views
Events:
- • Mid-Autumn Festival
- • National Day Golden Week
winter
December-February • -10-5°C, dry and cold
Highlights:
- • Fewer tourists
- • Frozen lake activities
- • Temple fairs
Events:
- • Chinese New Year
- • Lantern Festival
Frequently Asked Questions About 3 Days in Beijing
1 Is 3 days enough to see Beijing?
Three days allows you to see major highlights including the Forbidden City, Great Wall, and Temple of Heaven while getting a taste of local culture. You'll cover about 80% of must-see sights. For deeper exploration including more museums and day trips, 5-7 days is ideal.
2 What's the best area to stay in Beijing for sightseeing?
Dongcheng District near Wangfujing offers the best location for tourists, with walking distance to the Forbidden City and easy subway access. Chaoyang is better for nightlife and modern Beijing. Budget: ¥150-400/night, Mid-range: ¥400-800/night.
3 How much money do I need for 3 days in Beijing?
Budget ¥600-900 for basic costs (¥200-300/day), ¥1200-1800 for comfortable travel (¥400-600/day), or ¥2400+ for luxury (¥800+/day). This covers all meals, attractions, and transport but excludes accommodation. Add ¥150-1500 per night for lodging.
4 What should I book in advance for Beijing?
Book Forbidden City tickets 7-10 days ahead (required). Great Wall tours need 2-3 days notice. Peking duck restaurants should be reserved 2-3 days ahead. Hotels book 1-2 months ahead for best rates, especially in peak season.
5 Do I need a VPN in Beijing?
Yes, Google, Facebook, Instagram, and many Western websites are blocked in China. Download and set up a VPN before arrival. ExpressVPN and NordVPN generally work well. Some hotels offer VPN access.
6 Is Beijing safe for tourists?
Beijing is very safe for tourists with low crime rates. Main concerns are air pollution (check daily AQI), traffic when crossing streets, and tourist scams at popular sites. Avoid unlicensed taxis and aggressive tea ceremony invitations.
Is 3 days enough to see Beijing?
What's the best area to stay in Beijing for sightseeing?
How much money do I need for 3 days in Beijing?
What should I book in advance for Beijing?
Do I need a VPN in Beijing?
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