Beijing China 4 Day Itinerary

4-Day Beijing Itinerary: Imperial Grandeur & Modern Charm

This itinerary blends iconic historical sites with modern experiences, offering a taste of Beijing’s diverse offerings.

Things to Know:

  • Visa: Most nationalities require a visa to enter China. Apply well in advance.
  • Currency: Chinese Yuan (RMB). Credit cards are accepted in some places but cash is king, especially for smaller vendors.
  • Language: Mandarin Chinese. Learn basic phrases or use translation apps.
  • Transportation:
    • Subway: Efficient and affordable. Download a metro app for easy navigation.
    • Taxis: Widely available but can be difficult to hail during rush hour. Use ride-hailing apps like Didi Chuxing.

Accommodation:

Consider staying in the Dongcheng or Xicheng districts for proximity to major attractions.

  • Budget: Hostels, guesthouses (around ¥100-300/night)
  • Mid-Range: Business hotels, boutique accommodations (around ¥400-800/night)
  • Luxury: Five-star hotels (¥1000+/night)

Day 1: Imperial Majesty

  • Morning: Explore the Forbidden City (故宫), the vast imperial palace complex. Allow at least 3 hours to wander through its courtyards and halls. Book tickets online in advance to skip queues.

  • Lunch: Savor Peking Duck at Quanjude Roast Duck Restaurant (全聚德烤鸭店). A Beijing institution!

  • Afternoon: Visit Tiananmen Square, the largest public square in the world, and witness the raising of the flag ceremony.

  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Kung Fu show at the Red Theatre (红剧场) for an energetic cultural experience.

Day 2: Ancient Wonders & Culinary Delights

  • Morning: Hike the Great Wall at Mutianyu section. It’s less crowded than Badaling and offers stunning views. Take a cable car up for breathtaking panoramas.

  • Lunch: Sample local delicacies at a restaurant near Mutianyu or pack your own picnic lunch.

  • Afternoon: Explore the Temple of Heaven (天坛), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its impressive architecture and serene gardens.

  • Evening: Dive into Beijing’s bustling hutong alleys (胡同) on a guided walking tour. Experience authentic local life and enjoy street food snacks.

Day 3: Art, History & Modernity

  • Morning: Discover the artistic treasures of the 798 Art District (798艺术区), home to galleries, studios, cafes, and trendy boutiques.

  • Lunch: Have lunch at one of the many trendy eateries in the 798 Art District.

  • Afternoon: Delve into history at the Capital Museum (首都博物馆) which showcases Beijing’s rich past through exhibits and artifacts.

  • Evening: Enjoy a relaxing evening stroll along Houhai Lake (后海), a picturesque area with bars, restaurants, and traditional teahouses.

Day 4: Shopping & Departure

  • Morning: Shop for souvenirs at the Panjiayuan Antique Market (潘家园市场) or explore the bustling Wangfujing Street (王府井大街) for department stores and international brands.

  • Lunch: Indulge in a final Peking Duck feast at Da Dong Roast Duck Restaurant (大董烤鸭).

  • Afternoon: Depending on your flight schedule, relax at a park, visit a museum you missed, or enjoy one last exploration of the city before heading to the airport.

Additional Tips:

  • Download WeChat, a popular social media and payment app in China.
  • Learn basic Mandarin phrases for smoother interactions.
  • Bargain when shopping at markets.
  • Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season.
  • Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience.
  • Stay hydrated and wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.

Enjoy your unforgettable journey through Beijing!