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 neighbourhoods. 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.
