Beijing, China-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Beijing

  • Arrive at Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)
  • Take a taxi or subway (Line 15) from the airport to your hotel
  • Check-in at The Peninsula Beijing (5-star hotel, starting at $200/night)
  • Visit the nearby Tiananmen Square, one of the largest city squares in the world
    • Stop by the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong, a grand tomb for China’s former leader
  • Try some Beijing Roast Duck for dinner at Quanjude (average price: 88 CNY/12 USD per person)
  • Explore the lively Wangfujing Street, lined with shops, restaurants, and street performers

Day 2: Imperial Beijing

  • Start the day at the iconic Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
    • Explore the vast palace complex, home to 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties (Ticket price: 60 CNY/8 USD per person)
  • Visit the nearby Temple of Heaven, a Taoist temple complex where emperors would pray for good harvests
  • Enjoy lunch at Jade Palace Restaurant (average price: 50 CNY/7 USD per person), serving traditional Beijing cuisine
  • Relax in the afternoon with a traditional Chinese massage at Qingyuan Massage (starting at 200 CNY/28 USD per hour)
  • Have dinner at Dongjiakou Jiaojiao, trying their famous Pot Stickers and other Northern Chinese dishes (average price: 50 CNY/7 USD per person)

Day 3: The Great Wall of China

  • Take a day trip to the Mutianyu Great Wall, one of the best-preserved sections of the wall
    • Hike for about 2-3 hours, enjoying breathtaking views and historic significance (Ticket price: 45 CNY/6 USD per person)
  • Stop by the nearby Simatai Great Wall, another famous section with stunning views
  • Enjoy a picnic lunch at the base of the wall or try some street food at Mutianyu Street Food (average price: 20-50 CNY/3-7 USD per person)
  • Return to Beijing and enjoy dinner at Xihe Restaurant, serving authentic Northern Chinese cuisine (average price: 50 CNY/7 USD per person)

Day 4: Summer Palace and Gardens

  • Visit the beautiful Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
    • Explore the stunning gardens, temples, and pavilions (Ticket price: 35 CNY/5 USD per person)
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the serene ** Kunming Lake**
  • Enjoy lunch at Shizheng Garden Restaurant (average price: 30-50 CNY/4-7 USD per person), located within the palace grounds
  • Visit the nearby Peking Roast Duck Restaurant, trying their famous dish and other Northern Chinese specialties (average price: 80 CNY/11 USD per person)

Day 5: Hutongs and Local Life

  • Explore the ancient Nanluoguxiang Street, a network of narrow, winding alleys filled with local shops and restaurants
    • Visit the nearby Museum of Traditional Chinese Medicine
  • Stop by the famous Donghuamen Night Market, trying street food and shopping for souvenirs (average price: 20-50 CNY/3-7 USD per person)
  • Have dinner at Yin Tai Restaurant (average price: 30-50 CNY/4-7 USD per person), serving traditional Beijing cuisine
  • Enjoy a traditional Chinese opera performance at the Qing Dynasty Courtyard Theater

Day 6: Temple of Heaven and Local Markets

  • Visit the beautiful Temple of Heaven, a Taoist temple complex where emperors would pray for good harvests (Ticket price: 35 CNY/5 USD per person)
  • Explore the nearby Hongqiao Market, trying street food, shopping for souvenirs, and watching local performers
    • Visit the nearby Fangyan Hutong Museum, showcasing traditional Beijing life
  • Enjoy lunch at Wulouyuan Restaurant (average price: 30-50 CNY/4-7 USD per person), serving Northern Chinese cuisine
  • Relax in the afternoon with a visit to the famous Tiananmen Square

Day 7: Departure from Beijing

  • Spend the morning shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring a local market
  • Check-out of your hotel and depart from Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)

Tips and Transportation

  • Buy a Beijing Tourist Card, which includes free entry to many attractions, public transportation, and discounts at participating merchants
  • Use the convenient Beijing Metro System or take taxis for shorter journeys
  • Be prepared for crowds and lines at popular attractions, especially during peak travel seasons (e.g., Chinese New Year)
  • Try some local street food and drinks, such as Jiaozi (pot stickers), Momo, and Tsingtao Beer

Accommodation

  • The Peninsula Beijing: a 5-star hotel located near Tiananmen Square (starting at $200/night)
  • Grand Hyatt Beijing: a 5-star hotel located in the heart of the city (starting at $180/night)

Budget and Currency

  • The official currency is the Renminbi (RMB), also known as the Chinese Yuan
  • Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is preferred for street food and local markets
  • Budget approximately 1,000-2,000 CNY ($140-280 USD) per day for meals, transportation, and attractions

Language

  • Mandarin Chinese is the official language of China
  • Many locals speak some English, especially in tourist areas and among younger generations
  • Be prepared to learn basic Chinese phrases, such as “nǐ hǎo” (hello), “xiè xiè” (thank you)

Note: Prices are estimates and may vary depending on individual circumstances.