08:00

Tiananmen Square

Allow about 1–1.5 hours for the square and its monumental avenues, taking into account security checks and any access procedures. Reach it by metro or taxi, and note that entry may require documents and reservations according to the rules in force; admission is generally free, but check the official channels for the latest conditions.

Bring the document used for the reservation and allow extra time for security checks.

10:00

Forbidden City

From the square, walk to the southern entrance and allow at least 3–4 hours to cross the main courtyards, ceremonial halls, and gardens. The route is broad and mostly outdoors; tickets can vary roughly between 40 and 60 CNY, while availability and booking methods should be checked on the official website. Plan a lunch break after the visit in the surrounding area before returning to your hotel.

Ticket availability may be limited: check the official procedures in advance.

06:30

Great Wall (Mutianyu Section)

Arrange a direct transfer from Beijing in advance: the road trip often takes about 1.5–2.5 hours each way, depending on traffic and departure point. Set aside 3–4 hours on site to go up, walk along a section of the wall, and return; tickets and cable cars can cost a total of around 100–250 CNY, depending on the options chosen. Bring water, shoes with good grip, and a jacket suitable for the season.

Check the official website for access, tickets, and ascent options; allow for a flexible return in case of traffic.

15:30

Summer Palace

After the transfer from Mutianyu, spend about 2–3 hours around Kunming Lake and the gardens, choosing a compact route if the day on the wall has been tiring. Take in the pavilions, bridges, and lakeside views; admission can cost roughly 20–60 CNY depending on the areas included. The trip to the complex can take about 1.5–2.5 hours: plan a break to eat or rest and check rates and access details on the official website.

If the transfer is delayed, opt for a shorter itinerary and do not try to cover the entire park.

08:00

Temple of Heaven

Reach the complex by subway or taxi and allow 1.5–2.5 hours to wander through the ceremonial spaces and admire the circular architecture of the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests. Tickets may vary roughly between 15 and 34 CNY depending on the areas included; check access conditions and fees on official channels. Plan for breakfast or a break before continuing north.

The complex is extensive: wear comfortable shoes and check in advance which areas you want to include.

11:00

Lama Temple (Yonghe Gong)

Head north by subway or taxi, allowing about 25–40 minutes depending on traffic and access points. Spend 1–1.5 hours in the courtyards and halls, respecting the spiritual character of the site; the ticket may cost roughly 25–40 CNY, to be confirmed on the official website. After your visit, stop for lunch nearby before heading to Nanluoguxiang.

Keep your behavior respectful and check the rules for photography and access.

13:30

Ancient Hutongs of Nanluoguxiang

From the Lama Temple, get to Nanluoguxiang in about 15–25 minutes by taxi or subway and spend 1.5–2 hours strolling through alleys, courtyards, and small shops. Visiting the district is free and there is no single admission ticket; budget around 30–100 CNY for a snack or drink, depending on your choices. Step away from the busiest street to see the side hutongs without entering private spaces.

On weekends and during peak periods, the alleys can be crowded: take your time and respect residents' daily life.

16:00

Beihai Park

Reach the park by taxi or on foot, allowing about 20–30 minutes depending on your starting point. Spend 1.5–2 hours walking among the lake, bridges, and gardens, with time for a scenic stop; admission may cost roughly 10–20 CNY, while any extra services may have separate fees. Check rates and access on official channels and arrange your return to the hotel from here.

Before entering, check the park map to choose a route suited to the time you have left.