Itinerary for 3 day trip to Beijing

Here's an ideal itinerary for 3 days in Beijing that will allow you to explore the city at a relaxed pace while avoiding religious places:

Day 1:

Start your day by visiting the iconic , which is the largest public square in the world. Take a stroll around the square and admire the impressive architecture of the surrounding buildings.
From there, head to the , which is located just north of . This ancient palace complex was once the home of Chinese emperors and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spend a few hours exploring the various halls, courtyards, and gardens within the complex.
For lunch, head to the nearby , which is a popular food street in Beijing. Here, you can sample a variety of local snacks and street food.
In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk through the hutongs, which are traditional alleyways that are unique to Beijing. These narrow streets are lined with traditional courtyard houses and offer a glimpse into the city's rich history and culture.
End your day by watching a traditional Chinese acrobatics show at the .

Start your day by visiting the , which is a beautiful imperial garden located in the northwest of Beijing. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features a large lake, numerous pavilions, and beautiful gardens.
For lunch, head to the nearby , which is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Here, you can find a variety of restaurants and cafes with outdoor seating overlooking the lake.
In the afternoon, visit the , which is a trendy neighborhood filled with art galleries, cafes, and shops. This area is known for its contemporary art scene and is a great place to explore and take photos.
End your day by visiting the , which was built for the 2008 Summer Olympics. Here, you can see the iconic Bird's Nest stadium and the Water Cube, which are both impressive architectural feats.

Start your day by visiting the Great Wall of China, which is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. There are several sections of the wall that are easily accessible from Beijing, such as Mutianyu or Badaling. Spend a few hours hiking along the wall and taking in the breathtaking views.
For lunch, head to the nearby village of , which is a picturesque ancient town located at the foot of the Simatai section of the Great Wall. Here, you can find a variety of restaurants and shops selling local souvenirs.
In the afternoon, visit the , which is a beautiful park located in the southern part of Beijing. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features several ancient temples and is a popular spot for locals to practice tai chi and other traditional activities.
End your day by visiting the , which is a trendy neighborhood filled with bars, restaurants, and shops. This area is known for its nightlife and is a great place to grab a drink and people-watch.