Historical Wonders of Beijing

9:00 - 13:00

Dive into the rich history of China with a visit to The Palace Museum, also known as the Forbidden City. Explore ancient palaces, marvel at traditional Chinese architecture, and discover thousands of years of Chinese culture and artifacts.

Tips: Wear comfortable shoes as there's a lot of ground to cover. Arrive early to avoid crowds and make the most of your visit. Don't forget to check out the Imperial Garden towards the end of your tour.

13:30 - 14:30

15:00 - 16:30

After lunch, take a leisurely stroll to Jingshan Park, located just north of the Forbidden City. Climb up to the Wanchun Pavilion for a panoramic view of the Forbidden City and Beijing's skyline.

Tips: The climb to the top is relatively easy and suitable for kids. Visit late in the afternoon for fewer crowds and a beautiful sunset view.

17:00 - 19:00

End your day with a visit to Beihai Park, one of the oldest and most preserved imperial gardens in China. Enjoy a boat ride on the lake, visit ancient temples, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Tips: Renting a boat can be a fun way to explore the lake, especially for kids. Don't miss the Nine-Dragon Wall and the White Dagoba.

19:30 - 20:30

9:00 - 11:00

Begin your day with a visit to the Temple of Heaven, an iconic example of Ming Dynasty architecture and symbolism. This complex was used by emperors for annual ceremonies of prayer to Heaven for a good harvest.

Tips: Try to arrive early to enjoy the park in a more tranquil state and watch local residents practicing tai chi, dancing, and other exercises. Don't miss the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, one of the most photographed buildings in Beijing.

11:30 - 12:30

13:00 - 15:00

Explore the stunning architecture and interior of the National Centre for the Performing Arts, a prime location for performing arts in China. Known as 'The Giant Egg', this venue hosts opera, music, ballet, and drama performances.

Tips: Check the performance schedule in advance to possibly catch a show. Even if you don't attend a performance, the architecture alone is worth exploring. The surrounding waters create a beautiful reflection of this architectural marvel.

15:30 - 17:30

Conclude your day with a visit to the 798 Art Zone, Beijing's leading concentration of contemporary art galleries. This area offers a fascinating look into China's modern art scene set within decommissioned military factory buildings.

Tips: Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking a lot. Many galleries are free to enter, making this an excellent opportunity to see a wide range of art without spending much. Keep an eye out for quirky cafes and shops scattered throughout the area.

18:00 - 19:00

8:00 - 12:00

Start your day with an awe-inspiring visit to the Great Wall of China, one of the most iconic wonders of the world. Explore the Mutianyu or Badaling section, both renowned for their beautiful scenery and historical significance.

Tips: Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring plenty of water. The cable car is a great option to save energy for exploring the wall itself. Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy the tranquility of the morning.

12:30 - 13:30

14:00 - 16:00

After lunch, head to the Summer Palace, an exquisite royal garden renowned for its preserved ancient landscapes and stunning architecture. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around Kunming Lake and explore the Long Corridor with its painted scenes.

Tips: Rent a paddle boat to explore Kunming Lake up close. Don't miss the Marble Boat and the Garden of Virtue and Harmony. The place can be quite vast, so consider renting an audio guide to learn more as you explore.

16:30 - 18:30

Conclude your day with a visit to the Beijing Zoo, home to a wide variety of animals from around the world, including the famous giant pandas. It's a great way to relax and entertain both adults and kids alike.

Tips: Head straight for the Panda House as it's one of the zoo's most popular attractions. The zoo can be crowded, so be patient and consider visiting less popular exhibits first.

19:00 - 20:00