Beijing, China 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Ancient Wonders and Modern Marvels

Morning:

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Yinding Xuan, located in the 798 Art Zone, offering a variety of Chinese and Western dishes.
  • Visit the iconic Tiananmen Square (天安门广场) and the adjacent Forbidden City (故宫). Remember to dress appropriately as shoulders and knees should be covered for entry into these sites.
  • Take a short metro ride to explore the 798 Art District (七九八), home to numerous contemporary art galleries, cafes, and shops.

Afternoon:

  • Have lunch at Dali Courtyard, a traditional courtyard restaurant serving authentic Beijing cuisine.
  • Visit the Temple of Heaven (天坛) and enjoy a leisurely stroll in its beautiful park.
  • Explore the bustling streets of Silk Market (丝绸市场), where you can find everything from souvenirs to fashion items at bargain prices.

Evening:

  • For dinner, experience the flavors of Peking Duck at Quanjude or Bianyifang, two famous duck restaurants in Beijing.
  • Catch a performance at the China National Grand Theatre (国家大剧院). Check their schedule for available shows.

Transportation: Beijing’s metro system is extensive and convenient. Buy a Yikatong transport card for unlimited travel on the metro, buses, and some public bicycles. Taxis are also readily available, but remember to negotiate the fare before starting your journey.

Day 2: Ancient Culture, Modern Architecture, and a Hutong Adventure

Morning:

  • Begin your day with breakfast at a local snack street like Wangfujing Snack Street, offering a variety of unique Chinese delicacies.
  • Visit the Summer Palace (颐和园) and marvel at its stunning architecture, gardens, and lakes.
  • Explore the nearby Haidian Park and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Afternoon:

  • Have lunch at a local restaurant serving Beijing’s famous Jiaozi, such as Dashilan Jiaozi Wang or Laofuqiu.
  • Experience the charm of traditional Beijing Hutongs by taking a rickshaw tour through the Nanluoguxiang area, exploring its narrow alleyways, ancient courtyards, and local shops.
  • Visit the Lama Temple (玉堂寺), one of Beijing’s most beautiful temples, and immerse yourself in its tranquil atmosphere.

Evening:

  • For your final dinner in Beijing, visit Nanluoguxiang Alley, where you can find a variety of restaurants offering both local and international cuisines.
  • End your day with a relaxing foot massage or a traditional Chinese tea ceremony at one of the many spas and tea houses found throughout the city.

Things to Know:

  • Mandarin is the official language, but many people in Beijing also speak English. Learn a few basic phrases to enhance your experience.
  • Beijing can be quite polluted, so consider downloading an air quality app like AirVisual or Polludgram to check the current air quality index (AQI).
  • Tipping is not customary in China; service charges are usually included in restaurant bills. However, rounding up to the nearest whole number is appreciated.
  • Always carry cash, as not all businesses accept credit cards, especially smaller shops and street vendors.
  • Be respectful when visiting temples, monasteries, and other religious sites by dressing appropriately and removing your shoes when necessary.

Stay: Beijing offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets. Some popular choices include: