3 Days Beijing Essential Highlights Tour

  • Duration: 4 days - 3 nights
  • Language: English
  • Transport: Vehicle
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunch
  • Group size: You, your family, friends or group
This thoughtfully designed itinerary is perfect for travelers with limited time in Beijing. Whether you're taking advantage of a layover or simply want to make the most of a short trip, this tour provides a comprehensive overview of the city's iconic attractions. During this tour, you will have a quality time to explore the magnificence of the Great Wall of China by visiting Mutianyu section, as well as get a view of the modern buildings in the Olympic Park. Besides, you won’t miss two other icons of Beijing - historical Forbidden City and traditional Hutongs, both offer a probe into...

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Hightlight tour

Beijing Hutong
Hutong
Forbidden City
Forbidden City
Beijing Tour
Mutianyu Great Wall
Bird's Nest
Bird's Nest

Itinerary

1

Day 1 Beijing Arrival

Ni Hao, welcome to Beijing, the iconic city as well as the capital of China!

You will be met by your local tour guide at the arrival hall of your arrival airport or train station, then be escorted to check in to your hotel in downtown by a private comfortable vehicle. The rest of today is on your own to relax. If you want to explore nearby, feel free to get some practical suggestions from your tour guide.

Arrival Ideas: At present, there are many international and domestic flights to Beijing. Besides, you can take a high speed train to this capital city from Shanghai (4.5-6 hrs), Xian (4-6 hrs), Guangzhou (7.5-8 hrs), Chengdu (7.5-10 hrs), Chongqing (7-9 hrs), Hong Kong (8 hrs), etc.

2

Day 2 Beijing – Great Wall (B, L)

After breakfast, visit Temple of Heaven, a historic site once used by emperors for sacrificial ceremonies. As you explore this grand complex of buildings and gardens, you’ll discover the rituals and beliefs of the Ming and Qing emperors, who sought divine blessings for good harvests through intricate ceremonies. Beyond its historical importance, you’ll observe vibrant local life, with residents practicing Tai Chi, dancing, and engaging in various exercises among the lush pine woods.

After the Temple of Heaven visit, you’ll be driven approximately 70 km (about 1.5 hours) to the iconic Mutianyu Great Wall, a less-crowded but beautiful section of this World Wonder. Begin your adventure by ascending the wall via an enclosed cable car, reaching No. 14 Watchtower, your starting point for an incredible experience. Hike westward along the wall, passing through towering watchtowers and capturing breathtaking views. The trail is moderate, suitable for most fitness levels, including families with children. For the more adventurous, challenge yourself by climbing the Great Man Slope to No. 20 Watchtower, the highest point, offering an even more spectacular vista. After exploring the wonderful sightseeing, hike back to No. 14 Watchtower and descend by the enclosed cable car.

Optional Toboggan Experience: For an extra thrill at Mutianyu, consider taking the toboggan ride or the chairlift cable car to descend the Great Wall, both available at No. 6 Watchtower. Note that there might be a queue, especially during peak seasons like Chinese holidays.

Next, drive back to Beijing City and take a short stop at the Beijing Olympic Village to view its famous Bird’s Nest and Water Cube from the outside.

Lastly, be escorted back to your hotel.

Optional Night Activity: After the day’s tour, treat yourself to a great dinner and taste the famous Peking Roasted Duck, a world-renowned dish with crisp skin and juicy meat.

3

Day 3 Beijing Departure (B, L)

After breakfast, you will start a journey through Beijing’s storied past with a brief visit to Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest public plaza. This iconic site is where Chairman Mao proclaimed the founding of the People’s Republic of China from the imposing Tiananmen Gate.

Step through Tiananmen Gate and into the heart of imperial China – Forbidden City. This vast palace complex, once home to 24 emperors from the Ming and Qing dynasties, stands as a marvel of architectural brilliance and historical grandeur. Admire the intricate details, from the dazzling yellow-glazed tile roofs to the refined white marble bases. As you explore the myriad rooms and courtyards, envision the lives of emperors, empresses, and their courtiers.

After leaving the Forbidden City, take a short walk to Jingshan Park, where you can ascend to its summit for a panoramic view. From here, marvel at the sweeping vistas of the Forbidden City to the south and the serene landscapes of Beihai Park, Shichahai Lake, and the iconic Drum Tower to the north. For unforgettable photos, make your way to one of the palace’s corner towers, a favorite spot among photography enthusiasts.

After lunch, go to hop on a rickshaw to experience the Beijing Hutongs – narrow alleys lined with historic quadrangle dwellings. This journey will immerse you in the traditional Beijing lifestyle, where you can explore charming antique shops, boutique stores, and witness the city’s historical evolution. You’ll also visit a local family’s home in the Hutongs, offering a glimpse into everyday life.

Optional Activity: If time permits, you may join a class on Traditional Chinese Paper Cutting in the Hutong area. Learn to create beautiful designs and motifs with the guidance of a skilled teacher.

Your Beijing tour is now about to end. Your tour guide will escort you to catch your flight/train to next destination.

Tips: In order to enjoy this day’s itinerary at a comfortable space, you are suggested to book a flight departing after 18:00.

As the ancient capital of 6 dynasties and the current capital and cultural hub of China, Beijing presents a captivating mix of ancient imperial grandeur and modern innovation. The city’s regal heritage is showcased through its magnificent palaces and tranquil gardens, while the Great Wall remains an iconic landmark, establishing Beijing as China’s premier destination.

Beyond iconic sites such as the Forbidden City, Great Wall, and Summer Palace, Beijing offers a wealth of other intriguing locations. This 5-day tour is designed for those seeking a deeper understanding of the city, covering major landmarks along with historical artifacts, Tibetan Buddhism, and Confucian teachings. Through this journey, you will delve into China’s rich heritage.

 

HIGHLIGHTS OF THIS TOUR

  • Hike along the awe-inspiring, less-crowded Mutianyu Great Wall, renowned for its Ming Dynasty watchtowers and stunning views, with convenient cable cars for going up and down, giving you more time on the wall;
  • Probe into Beijing’s rich history and traditions by visiting additional landmarks such as Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven, and the historic Hutongs;
  • Appreciate China’s extensive history and culture at the National Museum, home to a vast collection of invaluable artifacts and exhibits;
  • Discover the the profound teachings of Confucius at Guozijian, the ancient Confucian academy served as the foremost educational institution for Confucian learning.

 


 

The quotation for this trip is from $759 Per Person

1. This price is for one person, based on a group of 2 adults sharing one standard double-bed room in a 4-star hotel and traveling with our private tour in low seasons. It will drop greatly if your group has 4 or more members.
2. This price is subject to change according to your traveling season, month and date. There may be huge price increasing during public Chinese holidays, school summer vacations, tourism peak seasons or some special dates. (China Public Holiday 2025 Schedule Released)
3. Other factors that may change the final tour price include group size, hotel class, tour activities, fluctuation of currency exchange rate, etc.
4. This price is based on exchange rate USD 1=RMB 7.00. The final price will be based on the exchange rate in effect at the time of agreement with our quotation.
5. This price is only valid to March 31, 2026.
6. This price is not the final price until the Confirmation Letter is sent.
7. The items included and excluded in this price are for reference only. The final services included, please refer to the confirmation letter sent to you by the travel consultant.

What’s included?

  • Professional licensed English-speaking guide;
  • Admission tickets for all attractions listed in the itinerary;
  • Accommodation as listed in the itinerary (4-star standard);
  • Necessary vehicle transfers as listed in the itinerary;
  • Luggage Transfers: between airports (railway station) and hotels;
  • All meals as listed( “B” for Chinese and Western breakfast buffet in your hotel; “L” for Chinese Lunch in local restaurant; “D” for Chinese dinner in local restaurant.);
  • Our service charge, including tour planning, handling, operational and communication charges.

What’s excluded?

  • China visa;
  • Personal expenses;
  • Accommodation not listed in the itinerary;
  • Tourist sites which are not listed in the itinerary;
  • Recommended optional activities;
  • Flights or trains not listed in the itinerary;
  • Excess Baggage Charges;
  • Optional tips to guides, drivers, etc.
Frequently Asked Questions
  • Beijing offers an incredible array of historical and cultural sites. The absolute must-sees include the Great Wall of China, the magnificent Forbidden City, the serene Temple of Heaven, the beautiful Summer Palace, and the traditional Hutongs for a glimpse into local life.

  • An essential trip covering Beijing's most popular attractions (Forbidden City, Great Wall, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, Hutongs) typically requires 2 to 3 full days. If you have more time, you can delve into in-depth Great Wall hiking, photography, or explore more hidden city attractions.

  • Yes, Beijing is an excellent choice as it is China's most popular international arrival hub and a major domestic transportation center. Its convenient network connects it to many other hot destinations like Xi'an, Shanghai, Guilin, and Chengdu, making it an ideal first or last stop for a China trip.

  • Eligible travelers from certain countries can take advantage of the 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy in Beijing, allowing for a short visit without a traditional visa if transiting to a third country. It's recommended to check the latest specific requirements before travel.

  • Beijing's extensive flight and train connections make it easy to combine with many other popular Chinese destinations. Common combinations include Xi'an (for the Terracotta Warriors), Shanghai (for modern cityscapes), Guilin (for picturesque landscapes), Zhangjiajie (for Avatar Mountains), and Chengdu (for pandas).

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From Original price was: $475.00.Current price is: $375.00.

    From Original price was: $475.00.Current price is: $375.00.

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