4-Day Beijing Explorer: Palaces to Great Wall

Embark on a 4-day journey through Beijing, where ancient history and modern marvels blend seamlessly. Begin your adventure at The Palace Museum, a treasure trove of palaces and monuments that whispers tales of a bygone era. Spend 4 hours exploring this world cultural heritage site, located at No. 4, Jingshanqian Street. Next, delve into the historical elegance of Prince Gong's Mansion for 2 hours, a testament to the lives of past celebrities at No.14, Liuyin Street. Day 2 is dedicated to the landscaped beauty of the Old Summer Palace and the regal Summer Palace, both in Haidian District, where a full day at each site allows for a deep dive into their monumental grace. On Day 3, rise with the sun to visit the Temple of Heaven, a historical site at No.1, Tiantan Road, followed by an hour at the iconic Tiananmen Square. Cap off the day with a 3-hour excursion to the Badaling Great Wall, a piece of world cultural heritage that stands as a symbol of strength and endurance. Your final day is a thrilling contrast at Universal Beijing Resort, a theme park extravaganza that promises a day filled with excitement and entertainment in Tongzhou District. This itinerary offers a perfect blend of Beijing's majestic past and its dynamic present, ensuring memories that will last a lifetime.

4 Days in Beijing Itinerary: Day 1

Kickstarting our Beijing adventure, the Palace Museum, also known as the Forbidden City, awaits as our first regal encounter. Nestled at No. 4, Jingshanqian Street, Dongcheng District, this sprawling complex of palaces and monuments is a treasure trove of Chinese cultural heritage. As you meander through its vast courtyards and grand halls for approximately 4 hours, you'll be transported back to the days of emperors and dynasties. The museum's extensive collection showcases the pinnacle of traditional Chinese architecture and centuries-old artifacts, making it a must-visit for history buffs and culture enthusiasts alike.

Continuing the day's journey into the past, Prince Gong's Mansion stands as our second stop. Located at No.14, Liuyin Street, Xicheng District, this historical building offers a glimpse into the life of Chinese nobility. With a planned stay time of 2 hours, visitors can explore the intricately designed residence of one of the most influential figures of the Qing Dynasty. The mansion's traditional gardens and exquisite interiors are a testament to the luxurious lifestyle of its former occupants, making it an essential experience for those looking to delve deeper into Beijing's aristocratic history.

4 Days in Beijing Itinerary: Day 2

Kickstarting the second day of your Beijing adventure, the Old Summer Palace, also known as Yuanmingyuan, is the perfect preamble to a day steeped in imperial history. Once a masterpiece of Chinese garden design, the Old Summer Palace combines landscaped gardens with natural scenery, including a variety of water features and elaborate monuments. Although much of it lies in ruins, the park's vast grounds offer a tranquil escape from the city buzz, inviting visitors to ponder the grandeur of its past. Spend your day wandering through the remnants of this 18th-century royal retreat, where the echoes of emperors still linger in the air.

Continuing the regal theme, your next stop is the illustrious Summer Palace, a harmonious ensemble of lakes, gardens, and palaces. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, this well-preserved royal park served as a summer getaway for the Qing Dynasty. Here, you can easily spend the remainder of your day exploring its expansive grounds, which feature the iconic Longevity Hill and the serene Kunming Lake. The Summer Palace is a testament to the artistry of traditional Chinese landscape garden design, blending natural elements with manmade structures to create a poetic haven that has enchanted visitors for centuries.

4 Days in Beijing Itinerary: Day 3

Kicking off Day 3 with a serene morning, we head to the Temple of Heaven, a complex of religious buildings symbolizing the relationship between earth and heaven. Set in the heart of Beijing at No.1 Tiantan Road, Dongcheng District, this historic site is where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties would perform solemn rites for bountiful harvests. Spend a couple of hours wandering through its ancient halls and tranquil gardens, marveling at the architectural brilliance and the deep spiritual ambiance that has been preserved through centuries.

Next on our itinerary, just a short journey from the Temple of Heaven, lies the vast expanse of Tiananmen Square. Located on Chang'an Street, this iconic public square is steeped in modern history and is surrounded by monumental structures that tell the story of China's past and present. Allocate an hour to absorb the scale of this site, which has been the focal point for many significant events in Chinese history. Stand amidst the hustle and bustle and let the enormity of the square set in, as you gaze upon the famous Tiananmen Gate to the north.

To cap off an incredible Day 3, we'll venture out to the Badaling section of the Great Wall. A scenic drive from the city center will bring you to this most visited and well-preserved part of the wall, located right at Exit 58 of the Beijing-Tibet Expressway in Yanqing County. Prepare to spend three hours traversing the ancient steps and admiring breathtaking views that stretch across rugged mountains. As a piece of world cultural heritage, the Badaling Great Wall offers a tangible connection to China's historical defense systems and an unforgettable experience of the country's grandeur.

4 Days in Beijing Itinerary: Day 4

Concluding our Beijing journey with a bang, we'll spend the entire final day at the exhilarating Universal Beijing Resort. Located in the Tongzhou District, this theme park is a world of fun, fantasy, and film all rolled into one. With a full day dedicated to exploring its cinematic wonders, you'll be transported through a variety of thrilling rides, shows, and attractions that bring your favorite movies to life. From heart-pounding roller coasters to immersive, family-friendly experiences, there's something for everyone in this entertainment extravaganza. As the newest addition to the global Universal family, the Beijing resort promises cutting-edge attractions and impeccable attention to detail, ensuring that your last day in Beijing is as magical as the movies themselves.

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.