first visit

Beijing essentials: palace, hill and old city

Estimated duration
Full day
Estimated walking
6 km
Estimated budget
CNY 120-260
  1. Enter the Palace Museum through Meridian Gate

    故宫博物院·午门

    Reserve with your passport before the visit, bring the same original passport, and approach from the south. Do not plan this as a walk-up stop.

  2. Exit north and walk to Jingshan Park

    景山公园

    After leaving the Palace Museum from the north, cross carefully toward Jingshan. The hill gives a clear view over the old city when weather and visibility allow.

  3. Finish around Shichahai

    什刹海

    Continue by metro, taxi or a longer walk to the lakes and hutong area. Keep residential lanes quiet and use marked public streets.