Times are illustrative, not reserved entry slots. Your visit date, actual ticket time, and energy level come first.
Sample day · Central BeijingAllow time for breaks
The Palace Museum → Jingshan Park → Shichahai
09:00–12:00
The Palace Museum · 故宫博物院
Enter at the Meridian Gate (south). Follow the museum's one-way route and leave by the north exit, the Gate of Divine Prowess. Allow several hours; buy your ticket before this day.
12:15–13:15
Jingshan Park · 景山公园
After the museum, enter the park from its south gate. Climb to Wanchun Pavilion for a view back toward the Palace Museum. Park admission is separate.
13:30–14:30
Lunch near Di'anmen · 地安门附近午餐
One option listed by Beijing's city government: Huguosi Snack Restaurant (Di'anmen Branch), 180 Di'anmen Outer Street. Check its current opening hours and menu before setting off.
15:00 onward
Shichahai · 什刹海
Continue toward the historic lakes for an unhurried walk. For dinner, the city also lists Kao Rou Ji Restaurant at 14 Qianhai Dongyan. Check current opening hours and menu first.
Useful details, not guesswork
Before you go.
Ticket guidance can change. These notes were checked on 14 October 2026; the linked official pages take priority.
01 / PALACE MUSEUM
Ticket first, itinerary second.
The museum lists advance, real-name tickets, a normal Monday closure (except public holidays), and entry at the Meridian Gate. Beijing's English help page describes an official English booking route for passport holders. Bring the document used to book.
Beijing's dated visitor guidance says park tickets can be purchased at the gate with a passport if online identity checks require a mainland phone number. A separate, undated official park page says foreign visitors should reserve by phone. Because those pages conflict, confirm with the park before relying on walk-in entry.