Beijing 10 days

The world's largest city square, a significant historical and political center. It's surrounded by important landmarks like the Great Hall of the People and the National Museum of China.

• Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
• Be prepared for security checks.

The former imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties, a vast complex of palaces, courtyards, and gardens. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of Chinese architecture.

• Book tickets online in advance, as daily visitor numbers are capped.
• Consider renting an audio guide to fully appreciate the history and details.
• Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking.

A popular spot for authentic Shanghainese cuisine, especially famous for its delicate xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). It offers a cozy atmosphere and flavorful dishes.

• Try the original pork xiaolongbao and the pan-fried pork buns.

Located directly north of the Forbidden City, this park offers stunning panoramic views of the imperial palace from its summit. It's a great place for a leisurely stroll and to capture iconic photos.

• Climb to the Wanchun Pavilion for the best views.
• Visit during late afternoon for beautiful golden hour light over the city.

A lively pedestrian street known for its vibrant atmosphere and an array of street food vendors. While some offerings are adventurous (like scorpions), you'll also find classic Chinese snacks.

• Be open to trying new things, but also look for familiar favorites like jianbing (savory crepe).
• It can get very crowded, so keep valuables secure.

A sprawling park and complex of religious buildings where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties performed rites of thanksgiving. The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests is its most iconic structure.

• Arrive early to see locals practicing tai chi, singing, and dancing.
• The park is large; prioritize the Hall of Prayer, Echo Wall, and Circular Mound Altar.

A historic restaurant renowned for its traditional Beijing-style hot pot. Experience the communal dining ritual with high-quality ingredients and flavorful broths.

• Order a combination of broths if you want to try different flavors.
• Don't miss the sesame paste dipping sauce, a Beijing specialty.

One of Beijing's oldest and most famous hutongs, now a bustling commercial street lined with boutiques, cafes, bars, and small eateries. It retains some of its traditional courtyard house charm.

• Explore the smaller alleyways branching off Nanluoguxiang for a more authentic feel.
• This area can be very crowded, especially on weekends.

A picturesque area featuring three lakes (Qianhai, Houhai, Xihai) surrounded by traditional courtyard houses and willow trees. It's a popular spot for evening strolls, boat rides, and enjoying the nightlife.

• Consider a rickshaw tour to learn about the history of the hutongs.
• Houhai Lake is known for its lively bars and music venues.

A beautifully restored section of the Great Wall, known for its scenic surroundings with lush greenery and watchtowers. It's less crowded than Badaling and offers excellent views.

• Take the cable car up and the toboggan down for a fun experience.
• Wear sturdy shoes and bring water, as there's a lot of walking and climbing.
• Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid peak crowds.

Enjoy a simple, hearty meal at a restaurant catering to Great Wall visitors. Expect local Beijing dishes like noodles, dumplings, and stir-fries.

• Look for places with good reviews from other travelers.
• It's a good opportunity to try some local specialties.

Travel back to your accommodation in Beijing after a day of exploring the Great Wall.

Experience Beijing's modern dining scene in Sanlitun, an area known for its trendy restaurants and international cuisine. Options range from casual to upscale.

• Reservations are recommended for popular restaurants.
• Explore the various dining options in the Taikoo Li or Nali Patio areas.

A vast complex of lakes, gardens, and palaces that served as an imperial retreat. It's a masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

• Rent a boat on Kunming Lake for a different perspective.
• Climb to the Tower of Buddhist Incense for panoramic views.
• Allow ample time to explore the various halls and pavilions.

Find a local restaurant for a casual lunch. Options often include noodles, rice dishes, and simple stir-fries.

The site of the 2008 Beijing Olympics, featuring iconic structures like the Bird's Nest (National Stadium) and the Water Cube (National Aquatics Center). It's a vast public park perfect for a walk.

• You can pay to enter and tour the interiors of the Bird's Nest and Water Cube.
• It's a great place for photos, especially at dusk.

Indulge in Beijing's most famous culinary specialty: Peking Duck. This crispy roast duck is a must-try, typically served with thin pancakes, scallions, and plum sauce.

• Famous options include Quanjude and Bianyifang.
• Book in advance, especially for popular restaurants.

A unique district transformed from old military factories into a vibrant hub for contemporary Chinese art. It features numerous galleries, studios, cafes, and shops.

• Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking between galleries.
• Look for unique sculptures and street art installations.
• Check gallery opening hours as they can vary.

Enjoy lunch at one of the many cafes within the 798 Art District. They offer a range of international and Chinese dishes in a creative atmosphere.

One of the oldest imperial gardens in Beijing, featuring a large lake with a distinctive white Dagoba stupa on an island. It's a serene escape offering boating and pleasant walks.

• Rent a paddleboat for a relaxing experience on the lake.
• Visit the White Dagoba for iconic views.

A vibrant street famous for its concentration of restaurants, especially those serving spicy Sichuan cuisine. The street is illuminated by hundreds of red lanterns at night.

• Many restaurants here specialize in hot pot and crayfish.
• The atmosphere is lively and bustling, perfect for a fun dinner.

Adjacent to the Forbidden City, this temple complex was where emperors performed ancestral rites. It's a significant example of Ming Dynasty architecture and houses the Beijing Museum of Ancient Art.

• Note that the Beijing Museum of Ancient Art is now located within the complex.
• Appreciate the solemnity and scale of the main halls.

Located on the eastern side of Tiananmen Square, this vast museum showcases China's extensive history and cultural heritage through its impressive collections.

• Admission is free, but booking a time slot online in advance is often required.
• Focus on specific galleries if time is limited, such as the 'Ancient China' or 'Modern China' exhibits.

Find a convenient spot for lunch near Tiananmen Square. Options range from quick bites to sit-down meals.

A magnificent Tibetan Buddhist monastery and temple complex, known for its stunning architecture and impressive statues, including a giant Maitreya Buddha carved from a single sandalwood tree.

• Dress respectfully, as it is an active place of worship.
• The Hall of Ten Thousand Happinesses houses the impressive Buddha statue.

Explore the dining options around Andingmen, an area that blends traditional Beijing charm with modern eateries. You can find various cuisines here.

The former residence of Prince Gong, a prominent imperial relative in the late Qing Dynasty. It's a beautifully preserved example of a traditional Chinese mansion and garden.

• Explore both the residential courtyards and the exquisite garden.
• Consider attending a traditional music performance if available.

Enjoy lunch in a traditional courtyard setting within the hutong areas near Prince Gong's Mansion. These restaurants offer local Beijing dishes in an atmospheric environment.

Showcasing a wide range of Chinese art from ancient to contemporary periods, this museum features rotating exhibitions and a permanent collection.

• Check the current exhibitions schedule before your visit.
• The architecture of the building itself is also noteworthy.

Experience the vibrant and traditional art form of Peking Opera, known for its elaborate costumes, symbolic makeup, singing, dancing, and martial arts. A truly unique cultural immersion.

• Consider attending a shorter performance or one with English subtitles.
• Liyuan Theatre is a popular venue for tourists.

The second largest Confucian temple in China, dedicated to the great philosopher Confucius. It's a place of quiet contemplation and historical significance.

• Admire the ancient cypress trees and the stone inscriptions.
• It's located near the Lama Temple, making them easy to combine.

The former highest institution of learning in China during the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties. It's a serene complex with historical halls and ancient trees.

• The Hall of the Great Perfection is the main structure.
• It's adjacent to the Temple of Confucius.

Enjoy lunch at a local eatery in the vicinity of the Temple of Confucius and Imperial Academy. Expect traditional Beijing fare.

A large zoological park housing a wide variety of animals, including giant pandas. The aquarium offers a separate marine life experience.

• The Giant Panda House is a major attraction.
• Allocate sufficient time, especially if visiting the aquarium as well.

Xidan is a bustling commercial and shopping district with numerous dining options, from fast food to more traditional restaurants, offering a lively atmosphere for dinner.

• This area is great for experiencing local shopping and dining culture.
• Look for department store food courts for diverse and affordable options.

Showcasing a wide range of Chinese art from ancient to contemporary periods, this museum features rotating exhibitions and a permanent collection.

• Check the current exhibitions schedule before your visit.
• The architecture of the building itself is also noteworthy.

Enjoy a light lunch or coffee break at a cafe near the National Art Museum of China.

A sprawling market famous for its wide array of antiques, handicrafts, jade, calligraphy, paintings, and curios. It's a treasure trove for souvenir hunting and experiencing local commerce.

• Bargaining is expected, so be prepared to negotiate prices.
• Be discerning about authenticity, especially for high-value items.
• Go on a weekend for the full experience, though weekdays are less crowded.

Experience authentic Beijing cuisine in a traditional hutong setting. Enjoy local dishes in a charming, intimate atmosphere.

• Look for restaurants offering traditional Beijing snacks and homestyle cooking.
• This offers a contrast to the more modern dining experiences.

A serene park featuring the Temple of Earth, an imperial sacrificial complex. It's a popular spot for locals to relax, exercise, and enjoy nature.

• Visit the main sacrificial altar and surrounding halls.
• Observe local life, especially in the mornings.
• The park is especially beautiful during autumn.

Spend your last morning picking up any remaining souvenirs. Consider areas like Wangfujing, Nanluoguxiang, or specialized craft shops.

• Look for items like silk, tea, calligraphy, or traditional crafts.
• Compare prices across different shops for the best deals.

Enjoy a final Beijing meal, perhaps revisiting a favorite dish or trying something new. A relaxed lunch to savor the last flavors of the city.

The main international airport serving Beijing. Allow ample time for check-in, security, and potential traffic delays.

• Consider using the Airport Express train for a faster transfer.
• Check your flight status in advance.