Beijing, China-7-day-itinerary

7-Day Beijing Itinerary: A Mix of History, Culture & Modernity

Where to Stay:

  • Luxury: The Peninsula Beijing, Four Seasons Hotel Beijing
  • Mid-Range: Novotel Beijing Peace, Park Hyatt Beijing
  • Budget: Leo Hostel, Beijing Downtown Backpackers Inn

Transportation:

  • Subway: Efficient and affordable (download the “Beijing Subway” app).
  • Taxi: Easily available, but traffic can be heavy. Use Didi (similar to Uber) for convenience.
  • Bike Sharing: Popular option, download apps like Mobike or Ofo.

Things to Know:

  • Visa: Most nationalities require a visa for China. Apply in advance.
  • Language: Mandarin Chinese is the official language. Download a translation app.
  • Currency: Yuan (CNY). Credit cards are accepted in some places, but carry cash for smaller vendors and markets.
  • Tipping: Not customary.

Day 1: Imperial Grandeur

  • Morning: Explore Tiananmen Square, the largest public square in the world, and marvel at the iconic Portrait of Mao Zedong on Tiananmen Gate.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Forbidden City, the former imperial palace for centuries, with its vast courtyards, ornate halls, and rich history.
  • Evening: Enjoy a Peking Duck dinner at Da Dong Roast Duck Restaurant (renowned for its crispy skin and flavorful meat).

Day 2: Ancient Wonders & Tranquility

  • Morning: Climb the Great Wall of China at Mutianyu or Badaling sections. Hike along the majestic wall and soak in breathtaking panoramic views.
  • Afternoon: Relax and stroll through the serene Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with beautiful gardens, lakes, and temples.

Day 3: Cultural Immersion & Shopping Spree

  • Morning: Discover the Temple of Heaven, a magnificent complex where emperors performed ancient rituals. Admire its architectural beauty and learn about Chinese cosmology.
  • Afternoon: Explore the hutongs (narrow alleys) of Beijing’s historic neighborhoods, like Nanluogu Xiang or Yandaixiejie. Enjoy traditional snacks, browse unique shops, and witness local life.

Day 4: Art & History

  • Morning: Visit the National Museum of China, showcasing a vast collection of Chinese art and artifacts spanning millennia.
  • Afternoon: Explore the 798 Art District, a former industrial area transformed into a vibrant hub for contemporary art galleries, studios, and cafes.

Day 5: Culinary Delights & Nightlife

  • Morning: Take a cooking class and learn to prepare delicious Chinese dishes like dumplings or stir-fries.

  • Afternoon: Explore the Wangfujing Street market, a bustling commercial area with shops, restaurants, and street food stalls.

  • Evening: Experience Beijing’s nightlife at Sanlitun, a trendy district with bars, clubs, and live music venues.

Day 6: Day Trip to Xi’an

  • Take a high-speed train to Xi’an (approximately 5 hours).
  • Visit the Terracotta Army, an awe-inspiring collection of life-sized clay warriors buried with Qin Shi Huang, China’s first emperor.

Day 7: Farewell Beijing

  • Morning: Relax at Beihai Park, a picturesque park with a serene lake, temples, and gardens. Enjoy a leisurely boat ride or simply soak in the tranquility.
  • Afternoon: Depart from Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK).

Tips:

  • Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases like “hello” (nǐ hǎo) and “thank you” (xiè xie).
  • Download a VPN if you need access to blocked websites and social media platforms.
  • Bargain when shopping at markets and street stalls.
  • Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it at designated stations.

Enjoy your unforgettable journey in Beijing!