Day 1: The Best of Beijing in 24 Hours
Forbidden City & Tiananmen Square
Start at Tiananmen Square — the world's largest public square, flanked by the Great Hall of the People and the National Museum. Walk north through the Tiananmen Gate to the Forbidden City (¥60, book online mandatory). This 980-building imperial palace complex was home to 24 emperors across 500 years. The Hall of Supreme Harmony, the imperial garden, and the sheer scale are overwhelming. Budget 3 hours minimum.
Hutong Alleys & Drum Tower
Exit the Forbidden City north and walk into the hutong alleys — Beijing's ancient alleyway neighborhoods. Nanluoguxiang is the most famous (and touristy) hutong lane, but the real magic is in the unnamed alleys branching off it. Lunch at a local noodle shop — zhajiangmian (noodles with soybean paste, ¥15–25) is Beijing's signature dish. Climb the Drum Tower (¥20) for panoramic hutong rooftop views.
Houhai Lake & Peking Duck
Walk to Houhai Lake — a bar-and-restaurant-lined waterfront that's Beijing's most lively evening scene. The lake is especially beautiful in autumn when willow trees reflect in the water. For dinner, Peking duck is non-negotiable — Siji Minfu near Houhai offers excellent duck at ¥168–238 for a whole duck (serves 2–3), carved tableside with pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce.
