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Ultimate 3-Day Itinerary: Exploring China’s Cultural Gems

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Day 1: Beijing Adventure

Beijing, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at Da Dong Roast Duck Restaurant

Start your day with a traditional Beijing breakfast featuring their famous Peking Duck, setting a delicious tone for the day ahead.
Located in Dongcheng District, accessible via taxi or subway.
CNY 120, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Forbidden City

After breakfast, dive into history with a visit to the Forbidden City, which served as the imperial palace for 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing Dynasties.
Take subway Line 1 to Tiananmen West Station, a short 15-minute ride.
CNY 60, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Wangfujing Snack Street

Explore this bustling street and grab a quick bite, trying out various snacks like fried scorpions or tanghulu (candied fruit).
Walking distance from the Forbidden City.
CNY 50, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Great Wall at Mutianyu

Spend the afternoon walking along the stunning Great Wall at the Mutianyu section, enjoying beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
Take a bus or a guided tour from Wangfujing, approximately 1.5 hours.
CNY 45 (entrance fee), 3 hours

5:30PM

Return to Beijing and Dinner at Niu Niang's Feast

After a full day, unwind with a hearty meal indulging in classic Chinese hot pot and noodles.
Return by bus and then taxi to the restaurant, about 2 hours.
CNY 200, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Explore Wangfujing Night Market

Wander through the vibrant night market, sampling more delectable foods and shopping for unique souvenirs.
Walking distance from the restaurant.
CNY 50 (for snacks), 2 hours
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Day 2: Historic Xi'an

Xi'an, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast buffet at your hotel before heading out for the day’s adventures.
Located in your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Terracotta Army

Explore the world-renowned Terracotta Army, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring thousands of life-sized figures buried with China’s first emperor.
Take a local bus or taxi for about 1 hour from the city center.
CNY 150, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at De Fa Chang Restaurant

Feast on delicious local dumplings at this popular restaurant that specializes in Xi'an’s famous dumpling banquet.
Taxi ride from the Terracotta Army site, approximately 1 hour.
CNY 110, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit the Ancient City Wall

After lunch, cycle or walk along the ancient city wall, one of the best-preserved city walls in China, offering panoramic views of the city.
Ride a taxi, around 20 minutes from the restaurant.
CNY 54 (bike rental included), 2 hours

4:30PM

Relax at the Muslim Quarter

Roam the vibrant streets of the Muslim Quarter, sampling local street food and experiencing cultural diversity through its bustling markets.
Walking distance from the City Wall, approx 15 minutes.
CNY 50 (for snacks), 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Xi'an Famous Foods

Enjoy a casual dinner at a local eatery renowned for its handmade noodles and spicy lamb dishes, a must-try in Xi'an.
Just steps away from the Muslim Quarter.
CNY 70, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Xi'an

Day 3: Shanghai Spectacle

Shanghai, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Savor a Chinese and Western breakfast at your hotel before starting your explorations in Shanghai, ensuring to sample congee and steamed buns.
Located in your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Yu Garden

Wander through the classical gardens of Yu Garden, an oasis in the bustling city that reflects the art of traditional Chinese landscaping.
Take subway Line 10 to Yuyuan Garden Station, about 30 minutes.
CNY 40, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Bund

Stroll along the iconic Bund, where you can admire the architectural masterpieces and enjoy views of the iconic skyline of Pudong.
Walking distance from Yu Garden, about 20 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The Bund Tavern

Dine at The Bund Tavern with a view, offering a mix of Western and Asian dishes, perfect for a midday break.
Just a short walk from the Bund.
CNY 120, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Shanghai Museum

Discover the rich history of Chinese artifacts at the Shanghai Museum, one of the premier museums in the country.
Take a taxi or subway Line 1 from the Bund, about 15 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Shop on Nanjing Road

Wander along Nanjing Road, China’s busiest shopping street, where modern retail meets bustling street life.
Walking distance from the museum, approximately 20 minutes.
Varies, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Din Tai Fung

Treat yourself to a dinner at Din Tai Fung, famous for its delectable xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) and authentic Taiwanese cuisine.
Just a short walk from Nanjing Road.
CNY 200, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Shanghai
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