Beijing 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Itinerary for Exploring Beijing

Things to Know:

  • Best time to visit: Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter is cold and dry.
  • Visa: Most nationalities require a visa to enter China. Apply well in advance.
  • Language: Mandarin Chinese is the official language. Download a translation app or learn basic phrases.
  • Currency: Chinese Yuan (CNY). Credit cards are not widely accepted, so carry cash.

Transportation:

  • Subway: Efficient and affordable, covering most major attractions. Purchase a Yikatong card for easy travel.
  • Taxis: Widely available but negotiate fares beforehand or use ride-hailing apps like Didi Chuxing.
  • Buses: Extensive network, but routes can be complex. Use Baidu Maps for navigation.

Accommodation:

Consider staying in areas like Dongcheng (near the Forbidden City) or Xicheng (near Tiananmen Square).

Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival & Imperial Splendor

  • Morning: Arrive at Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) and transfer to your hotel.
  • Afternoon: Explore Tiananmen Square, the largest public square in the world.
  • Evening: Visit the Forbidden City, a magnificent imperial palace complex. Enjoy dinner at Da Dong Roast Duck Restaurant for authentic Peking duck.

Day 2: Ancient Walls & Temple Serenity

  • Morning: Hike or bike along the Great Wall of China at Mutianyu (less crowded than Badaling).
  • Afternoon: Explore the serene Lama Temple, a Tibetan Buddhist monastery.
  • Evening: Indulge in a traditional hot pot dinner at Hai Di Lao for a fun and interactive dining experience.

Day 3: Art & History

  • Morning: Visit the National Museum of China to delve into Chinese history and art.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Hutongs, narrow alleyways with traditional courtyard houses. Take a rickshaw ride for a unique perspective.
  • Evening: Enjoy a performance of Peking Opera at the Liyuan Theatre for a cultural immersion.

Day 4: Summer Palace & Olympic Legacy

  • Morning: Relax and stroll through the beautiful Summer Palace, an imperial garden retreat.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Bird’s Nest (National Stadium) and Water Cube (National Aquatics Center), iconic venues from the 2008 Olympics.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Sanlitun, a vibrant nightlife district.

Day 5: Art & Shopping

  • Morning: Explore the 798 Art District, a former industrial complex now home to contemporary art galleries and studios.
  • Afternoon: Shop for souvenirs and traditional crafts at Panjiayuan Antique Market.
  • Evening: Experience a tea ceremony at one of the many teahouses in the city.

Day 6: Temple Exploration & Culinary Delights

  • Morning: Visit the Temple of Heaven, a UNESCO World Heritage Site used by emperors for rituals.
  • Afternoon: Take a cooking class and learn to prepare traditional Chinese dishes.
  • Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at Quanjude Roast Duck Restaurant, another renowned Peking duck establishment.

Day 7: Departure

  • Depart from Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK).

Tips:

  • Download apps like WeChat for communication and payment.
  • Bargain when shopping at markets.
  • Learn basic Mandarin phrases to enhance your interactions with locals.
  • Be aware of scams and stay vigilant in crowded areas.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.