Beijing is a city where ancient history meets futuristic skyscrapers, and every street corner holds a story waiting to be explored. Whether you have just one day or a full week, this The Ultimate Beijing Itinerary will help you make the most of your trip. Let’s dive into the best ways to experience Beijing based on how much time you have!
Table of Contents
One-Day in Beijing: Top Landmarks You Can’t Miss
If you only have 24 hours in Beijing, you’ll need to move fast—but don’t worry, it’s totally doable! Your day will be packed with culture, history, and, of course, delicious food.
Morning: The Forbidden City & Tiananmen Square
Start your day early at Tiananmen Square, one of the most famous landmarks in China. This massive public square is home to the Monument to the People’s Heroes and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong. Right across from it, you’ll find the Forbidden City, the grand imperial palace that housed Chinese emperors for centuries. Wander through its stunning halls, admire the intricate architecture, and imagine life as royalty.
Afternoon: A Walk Along the Great Wall
No trip to Beijing is complete without seeing the Great Wall! Head to the Mutianyu section, about a 90-minute drive from the city. It’s less crowded than other areas and offers breathtaking views. Take a cable car up, walk along the ancient stones, and, if you’re feeling adventurous, slide down on a toboggan!
Evening: Dinner & a Stroll Through Wangfujing Street
After an action-packed day, reward yourself with a classic Peking Duck dinner at a renowned restaurant like Quanjude or Da Dong. If you still have energy, take a stroll through Wangfujing Street, Beijing’s famous shopping and snack street. Try unique street foods like scorpion skewers (if you dare!) or stick to safer options like sugar-coated hawthorn berries.
Three-Day Tour: Culture, Food & Nightlife in Beijing
Three days in Beijing gives you more time to explore beyond the must-see attractions. This itinerary blends culture, history, food, and a taste of Beijing’s buzzing nightlife.
Day 1: The Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven & Hutongs
Begin with the Forbidden City, taking your time to appreciate the massive imperial complex. Afterward, head to the Temple of Heaven, where emperors once prayed for good harvests. End your afternoon in the historic Hutong districts, where narrow alleyways hide charming teahouses, courtyards, and old Beijing life.
Day 2: Summer Palace & Art in the 798 Art District
Spend the morning exploring the Summer Palace, an elegant lakeside retreat with beautiful gardens and pavilions. In the afternoon, visit 798 Art District, Beijing’s creative hub filled with galleries, street art, and trendy cafés. At night, check out Sanlitun, Beijing’s popular nightlife district, for cocktails and rooftop bars.
Day 3: The Great Wall & Hotpot Feast
Take a day trip to the Great Wall, choosing between Mutianyu or the wild, unrestored sections at Jiankou. Afterward, treat yourself to a traditional Beijing hotpot at Haidilao, where you can cook meats and veggies in a flavorful broth.
Five-Day Plan: Hidden Gems & Day Trips From Beijing
With five days, you can go beyond the city’s main attractions and discover its hidden gems.
Day 1-3: Classic Beijing Highlights
Follow the three-day itinerary above to cover Beijing’s top landmarks, food, and nightlife spots.
Day 4: Day Trip to Chengde or Cuandixia Village
For a break from the city, head to Chengde, home to the grand Mountain Resort and stunning Tibetan-style temples. Alternatively, visit Cuandixia, an ancient village with preserved courtyard homes dating back to the Ming dynasty.
Day 5: Exploring Lesser-Known Beijing
Visit the Capital Museum, a hidden treasure showcasing Beijing’s fascinating history. Then, relax in Fragrant Hills Park, known for its scenic trails, perfect for escaping the city buzz. End your trip with a visit to a traditional Chinese tea house to experience an authentic tea ceremony.
A Week in Beijing: Deep Dive into History & Modernity
A week in Beijing lets you fully experience the city’s past, present, and future. You can take things slower, enjoy local neighborhoods, and even venture further outside the city.
Days 1-5: The Ultimate Beijing Highlights
Follow the five-day itinerary to explore Beijing’s most famous landmarks and nearby day trips.
Day 6: Modern Beijing – Tech, Shopping & Local Markets
Dive into Beijing’s futuristic side by visiting Zhongguancun, China’s Silicon Valley, or exploring cutting-edge architecture at the CBD (Central Business District). For shopping, check out Silk Street Market for souvenirs or head to Taikoo Li Sanlitun for high-end fashion and hip cafés.
Day 7: Beijing’s Cultural & Spiritual Side
Wrap up your Beijing adventure by visiting the Lama Temple, a stunning Tibetan Buddhist temple, and the nearby Confucius Temple. Then, explore the Beijing Ancient Observatory, one of the oldest in the world. End your trip with a peaceful evening at Houhai Lake, enjoying a leisurely boat ride or a drink at a lakeside bar.
Final Thoughts
No matter how much time you have, Beijing has something incredible to offer. From historical palaces and the Great Wall to trendy art districts and buzzing nightlife, your itinerary will be packed with unforgettable experiences. Whether it’s a quick 24-hour stop or a full week of exploration, Beijing promises an adventure like no other!
