Beijing 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of the City

Morning

  • Arrive at Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) and take a taxi or train to your hotel
  • Check-in to your hotel and freshen up
  • Head to Wangfujing Street, one of Beijing’s most famous shopping streets, for lunch and a stroll around the area
    • Try some local street food like jiaozi (dumplings) or zhajiangmian (noodles with fermented soybean paste)
    • Explore the shops and markets along the street, including the iconic Wangfujing Department Store

Afternoon

  • Visit the nearby Forbidden City (), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties
    • Spend at least 2 hours exploring the complex’s many halls, temples, and gardens
    • Don’t miss the impressive Hall of Supreme Harmony and the lavish Throne Room

Evening

  • Head to Qianmen Street (), a historic shopping street with a mix of old and new shops and restaurants
    • Try some local snacks like roasted chestnuts or fried dough sticks
    • Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in the area, serving everything from Sichuan hot pot to Beijing roast duck

Day 2: The Great Wall and Ming Tombs

Morning

  • Take a guided tour to the Mutianyu Great Wall (), one of the most popular and well-preserved sections of the wall
    • Spend about 3-4 hours hiking and exploring the wall, with stunning views of the surrounding countryside
    • Don’t miss the steep stairs and watchtowers along the way

Afternoon

  • Visit the Ming Tombs (), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and final resting place of 13 Ming dynasty emperors
    • Explore the tombs and temples, including the Changling Tomb, the largest and most impressive tomb on the complex
    • Take in the beautiful scenery and tranquil atmosphere of the surrounding hills and gardens

Evening

  • Enjoy a traditional Beijing opera performance at the Red Theater or other local venue
    • Learn about the history and cultural significance of Beijing opera
    • Be mesmerized by the colorful costumes, acrobatic movements, and intricate storylines

Day 3: Hutongs and Food Heaven

Morning

  • Explore the narrow alleys and traditional courtyards of Beijing’s historic hutong neighborhoods
    • Visit the famous Nanluoguxiang Hutong (), a popular shopping street with a mix of old and new shops
    • Wander through the quieter hutongs like Qianmen or Houhai, with their charming lanes and local markets

Afternoon

  • Visit the Panjiayuan Antique Market (), a treasure trove of vintage and antique items from China’s past
    • Bargain for souvenirs and gifts, or simply soak up the atmosphere and history
    • Try some local snacks like tea eggs or sesame pancakes along the way

Evening

  • Enjoy a culinary adventure at a local restaurant, trying dishes like Peking roast duck, hot pot, or hand-pulled noodles
    • Visit the famous Quanjude Roast Duck Restaurant (), which has been serving Beijing’s signature dish since 1664
    • Sample some of the city’s best street food, from spicy Sichuan dishes to sweet and savory pastries

Day 4: Temple and Park Escapes

Morning

  • Visit the stunning Temple of Heaven (), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former imperial temple complex
    • Explore the beautiful architecture, gardens, and pavilions, including the magnificent Hall of Abundance
    • Learn about the temple’s history and significance as a place for emperors to worship and pray

Afternoon

  • Head to the lovely Yu Garden (), a tranquil oasis in the heart of Beijing
    • Stroll around the gardens, lakes, and temples, taking in the serene atmosphere and beautiful landscaping
    • Visit the famous Long Corridor, with its intricate carvings and stunning views

Evening

  • Enjoy a relaxing evening stroll along the Liulichang Cultural Street (), a historic street lined with shops, restaurants, and tea houses
    • Take in the sights, sounds, and smells of this charming street, which has been a hub of cultural activity for centuries
    • Try some local tea or snacks at one of the many small shops and cafes

Day 5: Last-Minute Adventures and Departure

Morning

  • Visit the National Museum of China (), a world-class museum showcasing Chinese history and culture
    • Explore exhibits on ancient civilizations, dynasties, and cultural artifacts from across China
    • Learn about Beijing’s rich history as the capital of China for over 800 years

Afternoon

  • Head back to the airport or your hotel for some last-minute shopping or packing
    • Visit the nearby Olympic Park (), a sprawling complex built for the 2008 Summer Olympics
    • Take a stroll around the park, admiring the modern architecture and scenic views of the surrounding cityscape

Evening

  • Depart Beijing and head home, with memories of your amazing adventure in this incredible city