Beijing is a captivating destination where China’s ancient history beautifully meets modern life. In just 48 hours, you can dive into the country’s rich past and get a taste of contemporary life in one of the world’s largest cities. Our guide takes you through two unforgettable days in Beijing, giving you a well-rounded experience of this incredible city.
Day 1: The Great Wall of China at Mutianyu
Start your Beijing adventure by visiting one of the world’s most iconic landmarks and a true wonder: the Great Wall of China. The Mutianyu section, which is among the easiest to reach from Beijing, offers plenty of space for visitors and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Getting to the Great Wall
There are several ways to reach the Great Wall. You can book a private tour in advance (either online or at the airport), or arrange your own transport using shuttle buses or ride-hailing apps.
Here’s how we got there: After an early breakfast, we booked a driver through DiDi (via the Alipay app), and at 10 a.m., we were on our way to Mutianyu. Depending on where you’re staying in Beijing, the journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, with the Wall located about 70 km from the city.
Read more: How to Get to the Great Wall of China from Beijing – Transport Tips and Advice
Exploring the Great Wall
Tickets can be purchased at the entrance for around €9, and this includes a shuttle bus to the Wall. You’ll find free Wi-Fi, public restrooms, and multiple access points.
Once there, you have the option to either take a cable car up or hike. We chose to walk up, which was a pleasant path through some steps and woods. The abundance of cameras along the way felt a bit odd, but soon we emerged at Tower 8, where you can walk in either direction along the Wall, explore the towers, and enjoy breathtaking views. For your descent, you can walk, take the cable car, or opt for a thrilling toboggan ride (you can buy a toboggan ticket at the top).
Afterward, treat yourself to some local delicacies at the restaurants near the base of the Wall. We took a break before booking our ride back to Beijing via DiDi.
Back in Beijing
Once back, you can either relax or explore more of the city. We stumbled upon a cozy snack bar near our hotel. Though no one spoke English, we simply pointed to the dishes others were eating and ended up with a delicious, generously filled wonton soup.
Day 2: Exploring Beijing’s Cultural Heart
Your second day is all about immersing yourself in Beijing’s cultural treasures. The Forbidden City, Jingshan Park, and the Hutong districts will give you a deep dive into China’s history and traditions.
Morning: The Forbidden City
The Forbidden City is one of Beijing’s most iconic landmarks. This vast palace complex was home to emperors for over 500 years during the Ming and Qing dynasties. The gates open at 8:30 a.m., and we recommend booking tickets online 1–2 weeks in advance, as daily visitor numbers are limited. Tickets cost between €5 and €7.50, depending on the season.
Touring the Forbidden City: Enter through the Meridian Gate at the south entrance and make your way north, passing through the grand halls and former imperial residences. Highlights include the Halls of Supreme, Intermediate, and Preserved Harmony, which showcase the opulence of imperial China. You’ll also find several museums displaying imperial treasures and artworks. Plan for about 3 to 4 hours to fully appreciate this historic site. Exit through the North Gate, where you’re just a short walk from other major Beijing attractions like Jingshan Park.
Afternoon: Jingshan Park, Beihai Lake, and the Hutongs
Jingshan Park: Located just north of the Forbidden City, Jingshan Park offers some of the best panoramic views of the palace complex. The climb to the top is quick and well worth it for the view alone. The park’s pagodas add to its charm, and it’s a peaceful retreat amidst the city’s hustle and bustle. Admission is incredibly affordable, ranging from €0.25 to €0.60 depending on the season.
Beihai Lake: From Jingshan Park, it’s a short stroll to Beihai Lake, one of Beijing’s oldest and most beautiful imperial gardens. You can enjoy a relaxing walk along the lakeside, visit the White Pagoda, or even take a short boat ride. The area is tranquil, dotted with small restaurants perfect for a quick bite.
Quianhai Lake and the Hutongs: Cross Dianmen Street at the northern end of the lake to reach Quianhai Lake, where you can wander through the city’s historic Hutongs, traditional neighborhoods that offer a glimpse into old Beijing. The charming Xicheng Bridge and the majestic Yan Dai Xie Jie Gate are among the highlights of this area. Be sure to try some authentic local dishes from one of the many street food vendors.
Our conclusion: In just 48 hours, you can experience a rich blend of history, culture, and stunning scenery in Beijing. From the awe-inspiring Great Wall at Mutianyu to the cultural gems within the city, these two days will leave you with lasting memories of one of the most fascinating places on earth. Whether you’re drawn to history, local culture, or breathtaking vistas, Beijing has something for everyone.
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