Beijing 7 Day Itinerary

Title: 7-Day Beijing Itinerary for First-Time Travelers

Day 1: Arrival & Tiananmen Square & Forbidden City

Activities:

  • Visit Tiananmen Square, the symbolic center of China.
  • Explore the Forbidden City, the former imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Food Recommendations:

  • Quanjude Roasted Duck (quanjude.com) for Peking Duck.

Things to Know:

  • Remember to respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites and important historical landmarks.
  • Mandarin is the official language, but many people also speak English, especially in tourist areas.

Day 2: Temple of Heaven & Hutongs

  • Morning visit to the Temple of Heaven, an imperial complex used for ritual ceremonies of the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Activities:

  • Stroll around the Hutongs (traditional alleyways) in the nearby area. You can take a rickshaw tour for a more authentic experience.

Food Recommendations:

  • Nanluoguxiang Street for diverse local food and snacks.

Day 3: Great Wall of China (Mutianyu or Badaling)

  • Day trip to the Great Wall. You can choose between Mutianyu or Badaling, both easily accessible by public transportation.

Activities:

  • Hike along the wall, take in the stunning views, and learn about its history.

Food Recommendations:

  • A local restaurant near the Great Wall for a simple meal with a great view.

Day 4: Summer Palace & Olympic Park

  • Morning visit to the Summer Palace, a beautiful royal garden.

Activities:

  • Afternoon explore the Olympic Park, including the Bird’s Nest Stadium and Water Cube.

Food Recommendations:

  • Sanlitun Area for diverse dining options, from local street food to international cuisines.

Day 5: Lama Temple & Yonghegong Snack Street Activities:

  • Visit the Lama Temple, one of Beijing’s largest and most beautifully preserved Buddhist temples.
  • Explore the nearby Yonghegong Snack Street for local snacks and dishes.

Food Recommendations:

  • Try jianbing (Chinese crepe) and soupy noodles at the street stalls.

Day 6: 798 Art District & Silk Market Activities:

  • Morning visit to the 798 Art District, a creative hub showcasing contemporary Chinese art.
  • Afternoon shopping at the Silk Market for souvenirs and authentic silk products.

Food Recommendations:

  • Lunch at a local restaurant near 798 Art District.

Day 7: Departure

  • Spend your last day relaxing, revisiting favorite spots, or exploring new areas based on your interests.
  • Depart from Beijing Capital International Airport.