Beijing, China-4-day-itinerary

Day 1: Imperial Beijing

  • Morning: Visit the Forbidden City, the imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Spend a few hours exploring the vast complex, including the Meridian Gate, the Palace of Heavenly Purity, and the Temple of Civil Offices.
  • Lunch: Grab a bowl of Jiaozi, Chinese dumplings, at a local restaurant near the Forbidden City. Try Jia Jia Tang Bao, a popular spot for steamed buns filled with pork and vegetables.
  • Afternoon: Visit the nearby Tiananmen Square, one of the largest city squares in the world. See the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong and the National Museum of China.
  • Dinner: Head to the trendy Sanlitun area for a night of dining and nightlife. Try Zuoyuan, a modern Chinese restaurant with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
  • Accommodation: Stay at the The Peninsula Beijing, a luxurious hotel located in the heart of the city.
  • Things to know:
    • The Forbidden City is a must-see, but be prepared for large crowds and security checks.
    • Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas like Tiananmen Square.
    • Try to avoid eating at touristy restaurants; opt for local eateries instead.

Day 2: Cultural Delights

  • Morning: Visit the Peking Opera Theatre, a historic venue that showcases traditional Chinese opera performances. Take a guided tour of the theatre and learn about its rich history.
  • Lunch: Try some authentic Beijing cuisine at Donghuamen Night Market, a night market with a variety of street food stalls serving everything from noodles to skewers.
  • Afternoon: Visit the National Art Museum of China, which features an impressive collection of Chinese art and artifacts, including works by famous artists like Qi Baishi and Wu Guanzhong.
  • Dinner: Head to the trendy Guijie Street, a popular dining street with a range of restaurants serving everything from Sichuan hot pot to Tibetan cuisine. Try Hutong Grill, a modern restaurant serving grilled meats and vegetables.
  • Tips:
    • Be prepared for crowds and lines at popular attractions like the Peking Opera Theatre.
    • Don’t be afraid to try new foods or drinks; Beijing has a vibrant food scene with many unique flavors to discover.

Day 3: The Great Wall and Ming Tombs

  • Morning: Take a day trip to the Great Wall of China, one of the Seven Wonders of the Medieval World. Visit the Mutianyu Great Wall, which is less crowded than other sections and offers stunning views.
  • Lunch: Pack a lunch and enjoy it at the wall, or grab a snack at one of the many food stalls nearby.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Ming Tombs, the final resting place of 13 Ming dynasty emperors. Explore the elaborate mausoleums and learn about the history of the Ming dynasty.
  • Dinner: Head back to Beijing and try some traditional roast duck at Quanjude Roast Duck Restaurant, a famous restaurant that has been serving roast duck for over 100 years.
  • Accommodation: Stay at the same hotel as before, or opt for a different location depending on your preferences.

Day 4: Hutongs and Markets

  • Morning: Explore the narrow alleys of Beijing’s Hutong area, which features traditional courtyards and historic architecture. Visit the Liangmaqiao Lu, a famous hutong street with many shops and restaurants.
  • Lunch: Try some local snacks at a market stall or food cart in the hutongs.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Silk Market, a popular shopping destination for souvenirs, clothing, and accessories. Be prepared to haggle with vendors!
  • Dinner: Head back to your hotel or try some street food at one of Beijing’s many night markets.
  • Tips:
    • Be respectful when exploring the hutongs; take photos but avoid disrupting local life.
    • Don’t be afraid to try new foods or drinks; Beijing has a vibrant food scene with many unique flavors to discover.

Transportation

  • The best way to get around Beijing is by taxi, but be prepared for traffic and congestion. You can also use ride-hailing apps like Didi Chuxing.
  • Consider purchasing a Beijing Tourist Card, which offers discounts on public transportation, attractions, and restaurants.
  • Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas and consider using a money belt or secure wallet.

Other Tips

  • Learn some basic Chinese phrases like "" (nǐ hǎo) for hello, "" (xiè xiè) for thank you, and "" (duì bù qǐ) for sorry.
  • Be prepared for crowds and lines at popular attractions; consider visiting during off-peak hours or using a tour guide to skip the lines.
  • Don’t be afraid to try new foods or drinks; Beijing has a vibrant food scene with many unique flavors to discover.