Budget-Friendly 3-Day China Itinerary

Day 1: Beijing Exploration

Beijing, China

8:00AM

Tiananmen Square

Start your day at the iconic Tiananmen Square, known for its historical significance and surrounded by important landmarks.
Tiananmen Square is easily accessible by subway. Take Line 1 to Tiananmen East or Tiananmen West station.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Forbidden City

Explore the majestic Forbidden City, once the imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties, showcasing Chinese palatial architecture.
Walk from Tiananmen Square to the entrance of the Forbidden City, which is within walking distance.
30 CNY, 3 hours

3:00PM

Hutong Tour

Immerse yourself in the traditional Beijing Hutongs, narrow alleys with courtyard residences, by taking a guided tour or exploring on your own.
Take a short taxi or subway ride to a Hutong area like Nanluoguxiang or Houhai.
50 CNY, 2 hours

6:00PM

Wangfujing Street

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and try local street food at Wangfujing Street, a bustling shopping street in Beijing.
Take a bus or subway to Wangfujing Street, located in Dongcheng District.
Varies based on purchases, 2 hours
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Day 2: More of Beijing

Beijing, China

9:00AM

Great Wall of China (Mutianyu section)

Visit the awe-inspiring Great Wall of China at the Mutianyu section, offering picturesque views and less crowded experience.
Take a public bus or join a group tour to reach the Mutianyu section from downtown Beijing.
45 CNY (entrance fee), 4 hours

2:00PM

Summer Palace

Relax at the beautiful Summer Palace, a vast imperial garden with lakes, temples, and pavilions, showcasing Chinese landscape design.
Take a bus or subway to the Summer Palace located in Haidian District.
20 CNY, 3 hours

6:00PM

Local Night Market

Enjoy a budget-friendly dinner at a local night market like Donghuamen Night Market, trying various Chinese street foods.
Take a short taxi or subway ride to the night market area.
Varies based on purchases, 2 hours
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Day 3: Xi'an Exploration

Xi'an, China

8:00AM

Terracotta Army

Discover the fascinating Terracotta Army, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing thousands of life-sized clay soldiers and horses.
Take a high-speed train from Beijing to Xi'an (approx. 5-6 hours) and then a local bus to the Terracotta Army site.
120 CNY, 4 hours

1:00PM

Muslim Quarter

Stroll through Xi'an's bustling Muslim Quarter, known for its lively markets, street food, and historic Islamic architecture.
Walk or take a short taxi ride to the Muslim Quarter in the city center.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

City Wall

Walk or rent a bike to explore Xi'an's ancient City Wall, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas.
The City Wall is easily accessible by foot from the Muslim Quarter.
54 CNY (bike rental), 2 hours
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