Day 1: Imperial Grandeur in the Heart of Beijing
Morning: Forbidden City & Tiananmen Square
Kick off your journey at Tiananmen Square (the world’s largest public square), where you can admire the Monument to the People’s Heroes and the grand Tiananmen Rostrum. Then enter the Forbidden City (Palace Museum), China’s imperial palace for 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Wander through opulent halls like the Hall of Supreme Harmony, stroll along marble corridors, and marvel at ancient artworks and imperial treasures. Allow 3-4 hours for this UNESCO World Heritage Site—wear comfortable shoes as much walking is involved!
Afternoon: Jingshan Park & Beihai Park
Climb Jingshan Park (just north of the Forbidden City) for a panoramic view of the Forbidden City’s golden rooftops and Beijing’s skyline. In the afternoon, head to Beihai Park, a serene imperial garden with a iconic White Pagoda. Rent a boat on the lake or wander through lush gardens to experience traditional Chinese landscape design.
Evening: Wangfujing Street
Dine at Wangfujing Snack Street—try local delicacies like Peking duck, fried dumplings, or sugar-fried chestnuts. Explore the pedestrian street’s shops, from traditional Chinese crafts to international brands, for a taste of Beijing’s modern energy.
Day 2: Great Wall Adventure & Cultural Gems
Morning: Mutianyu Great Wall
Travel 70km north of Beijing to the Mutianyu Great Wall, one of the best-preserved and most scenic sections. Hike along the winding walls, pass through watchtowers, and enjoy breathtaking mountain views. Optional: Take a cable car up and a toboggan ride down for fun! Spend 3-4 hours here—don’t forget sunscreen and water.
Afternoon: Ming Tombs (Changling Mausoleum)
Visit the Ming Tombs, a UNESCO site housing 13 Ming emperors’ mausoleums. Focus on Changling Mausoleum, the largest and best-preserved one, with intricate wooden structures and imperial burial relics.
Evening: Houhai Lake
Relax at Houhai Lake—a charming area with lakeside bars, cafes, and traditional courtyard houses. Take a leisurely walk around the lake, or enjoy a drink while listening to live music, experiencing Beijing’s laid-back nightlife.
Day 3: Cultural Heritage & Local Life
Morning: Temple of Heaven
Explore the Temple of Heaven, a UNESCO site where emperors prayed for good harvests. Admire the stunning architecture, including the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests (with its iconic circular roof) and the Echo Wall. Watch locals practice tai chi, kite-flying, or traditional music for a glimpse of daily life.
Afternoon: Hutong Tour (Nanluoguxiang)
Dive into Beijing’s old-town charm with a hutong tour (narrow alleyways lined with courtyard houses). Start at Nanluoguxiang, a bustling hutong with boutique shops, vintage stores, and local snack stalls. Take a rickshaw ride to explore quieter hutongs, visit a traditional siheyuan (courtyard house), and chat with residents to learn about old Beijing culture.
Evening: Peking Duck Dinner
Treat yourself to a classic Peking duck dinner at a renowned restaurant like Quanjude or Da Dong. Savor the crispy duck skin wrapped in thin pancakes with scallions, cucumber, and sweet bean sauce—an unforgettable culinary experience.
Day 4: Modern Beijing & Souvenir Shopping
Morning: Summer Palace
Visit the Summer Palace, a UNESCO-listed imperial garden and the largest and best-preserved royal garden in China. Cruise on Kunming Lake, walk along the Long Corridor (adorned with over 14,000 paintings), and explore the Marble Boat and Tower of Buddhist Incense. The garden’s scenic lakes, bridges, and pavilions offer countless photo opportunities.
Afternoon: 798 Art District & Souvenir Shopping
Discover Beijing’s creative side at the 798 Art District, a former factory complex transformed into galleries, art studios, and design shops. Admire contemporary art exhibitions, street art, and unique handicrafts. Then head to Liulichang Street for souvenirs—buy traditional Chinese paintings, calligraphy, jade carvings, or tea sets to take home.
Evening: Farewell Dinner
End your trip with a farewell dinner featuring other local dishes like braised pork belly (hong shao rou), mapo tofu, or hot pot. Toast to an amazing Beijing adventure!
Practical Tips
- Transportation: Use Beijing’s efficient subway system (buy a transportation card for convenience) or ride-hailing apps like Didi. For day trips (Great Wall, Ming Tombs), book a guided tour or take a bus/train.
- Weather: Beijing has four distinct seasons—pack layers in spring/autumn, sunscreen in summer, and warm clothes in winter.
- Etiquette: Dress modestly when visiting temples; avoid loud noises in cultural sites.
- Language: Basic English is spoken at major attractions and hotels, but carry a translation app for convenience.
