3 day itinerary
China, And My Return Flight Is From Beijing. Internal Travel Is Train And Make It Budget Friendly. No Need Chengdu.
Itinerary
China is a fantastic destination with so much to offer, and I’m excited to help you plan a budget-friendly, family-friendly itinerary for your three days. Since you’ll be flying in and out of Beijing, we can focus on some nearby cities that are easily accessible by train. Let’s dive in!
Day 1: Explore Beijing
Morning:
- : Start your day early by visiting the iconic . It’s a vast palace complex that was home to Chinese emperors for centuries. Kids will love exploring the courtyards and learning about history. Entry is around 60 RMB (about $9) for adults, and kids under 18 can enter for free!
Lunch:
- Local Dumpling Restaurant: Head to a nearby dumpling restaurant for a delicious and budget-friendly lunch. You can find places where a meal costs around 30-50 RMB ($5-$8) per person.
Afternoon:
- : After lunch, take a stroll to , one of the largest public squares in the world. It’s a great spot for family photos and to soak in the atmosphere.
- : Next, visit the , where you can see locals practicing tai chi and playing games. The entrance fee is about 35 RMB ($5).
Evening:
- : Treat your family to a famous Peking Duck dinner. Look for budget-friendly restaurants where you can enjoy this delicacy for around 100-200 RMB ($15-$30) for a family meal.
Accommodation: Stay in a budget hotel or hostel in Beijing, which can range from 200-400 RMB ($30-$60) per night.
Day 2: Day Trip to Xi'an
Morning:
- Train to Xi'an: Take an early high-speed train to Xi'an (about 5-6 hours). Book tickets in advance for the best prices, which can be around 300-500 RMB ($45-$75) per person for a round trip.
Lunch:
- : Once you arrive, head to the Muslim Quarter for lunch. Try some local street food like lamb skewers or biang biang noodles, which are both delicious and budget-friendly (around 20-50 RMB, or $3-$8).
Afternoon:
- : Visit the , one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. The entrance fee is about 150 RMB ($22). Kids will be amazed by the thousands of life-sized soldiers!
Evening:
- Return to Beijing: After a day of exploration, take the train back to Beijing. Grab a quick dinner at a local eatery near your accommodation.
Day 3: Great Wall Adventure
Morning:
- : Start your day with a trip to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. It’s family-friendly and less crowded than other sections. You can take a bus or a budget tour to get there (around 50-100 RMB, or $8-$15). The entrance fee is about 40 RMB ($6).
Lunch:
- Picnic on the Wall: Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on the wall. This can be a fun family activity, and you can save money by bringing snacks and sandwiches.
Afternoon:
- Hiking and Exploring: Spend the afternoon hiking and exploring the wall. There are cable cars available if you want to make it easier for the kids.
Evening:
- Return to Beijing: Head back to the city and enjoy a casual dinner at a local restaurant. Look for places that offer set meals for families, which can be around 80-150 RMB ($12-$22).
Departure: Depending on your flight time, you can do some last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Beijing before heading to the airport.
Tips for Budget Travel:
- Train Tickets: Book your train tickets in advance through the official China Railway website or apps like Trip.com.
- Public Transport: Use the subway and buses in Beijing for affordable travel around the city.
- Street Food: Don’t hesitate to try street food; it’s often delicious and very budget-friendly!
I hope this itinerary helps you have an amazing family adventure in China! If you have any questions or need more details, feel free to ask. Safe travels! 🌏✈️