3-Day Budget Adventure in Beijing: City and Nature Experiences

Day 1: Exploring History

Beijing, China on December 4, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at a Local Eatery

Start your day with a traditional Chinese breakfast at a local eatery, enjoying items like jianbing (savory crepes) and soy milk.
Walk to a nearby breakfast spot.
CNY 20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Forbidden City

Dive into history at the Forbidden City, a magnificent imperial palace with stunning architecture and rich heritage.
Take the subway to Tiananmen East Station.
CNY 60, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Wangfujing Street

Savor local street food like Peking duck wraps or dumplings at Wangfujing Street.
Walk to Wangfujing Street, about 15 minutes from the Forbidden City.
CNY 30, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Tiananmen Square

Stroll across Tiananmen Square, taking in the grand sights of China's historical heart.
Directly adjacent to the Forbidden City.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Beijing Hutong Tour

Wander through the ancient Hutongs, experiencing local culture and traditions in these narrow alleyways.
Walk or take a bus to Nanluoguxiang Hutong.
CNY 0 (self-guided), 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a Local Noodle Shop

Enjoy a hot bowl of Lanzhou beef noodles, an inexpensive and filling meal to end your adventurous day.
Walk to a local noodle shop nearby.
CNY 30, 1 hour
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Day 2: Nature and Heritage

Beijing, China on December 5, 2024

7:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe

Enjoy a simple breakfast at a nearby cafe with coffee and toast.
Walk to a local cafe.
CNY 30, 1 hour

8:30AM

Day Trip to the Great Wall

Take a local bus to the Great Wall of China at Mutianyu, where you can hike and enjoy breathtaking views.
Take Bus 867 from Dongzhimen Bus Station directly to Mutianyu.
CNY 40 (bus fare) + CNY 45 (entrance fee), 5 hours

1:30PM

Packed Lunch

Bring along a packed lunch to enjoy while on the Wall, saving money and time.
Pack lunch in advance.
CNY 20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Continue Hiking the Great Wall

Explore more sections of the Great Wall, soaking in the serene atmosphere and stunning landscapes.
Continue hiking spontaneously.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Return to Beijing

Head back to Beijing via the same bus route, reflecting on your day.
Take the return bus to Dongzhimen.
CNY 40, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a Local BBQ

Cap off your day with a barbecue dinner at a local spot, trying skewers of lamb and various vegetables.
Walk to a nearby BBQ restaurant.
CNY 50, 1 hour
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Day 3: Royal Retreat

Beijing, China on December 6, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel or Hostel

Enjoy a simple breakfast at your accommodation before heading out.
Walk downstairs.
CNY 20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Summer Palace

Spend the morning exploring the Summer Palace, with its beautiful gardens, lakes, and the remarkable Kunming Lake.
Take the subway Line 4 to Beigongmen Station.
CNY 30, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Grab a quick lunch at a restaurant nearby, enjoying some fried rice or stir-fried vegetables.
Walk to a nearby restaurant.
CNY 30, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Old Summer Palace

Explore the ruins of the once-famous Old Summer Palace, marveling at its historical significance.
Take public transport or walk from the Summer Palace.
CNY 10, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Return to Beijing City

Make your way back to central Beijing, enjoying the cityscape.
Subway back to the central area.
CNY 5, 1 hour

5:00PM

Early Dinner at a Local Diner

Have an early dinner at a local diner, trying some fried dumplings to refuel before your flight.
Find a diner in the area.
CNY 30, 1 hour

6:00PM

Head to Airport

Make your way to the airport with ample time before your flight, reflecting on your budget-friendly adventure.
Take the airport express train or bus.
CNY 25, 1 hour
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