Beijing 10 days

The world's largest city square, a significant site for modern Chinese history. It's surrounded by important buildings like the Great Hall of the People and the National Museum of China.

• Arrive early to avoid crowds and for better photo opportunities.
• Be prepared for security checks.

The former imperial palace from the Ming to the end of the Qing dynasty, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore its vast courtyards, grand halls, and intricate royal chambers.

• Book tickets online in advance, as daily visitor numbers are limited.
• Wear comfortable shoes; you'll be doing a lot of walking.

A popular mid-range restaurant known for its authentic Beijing cuisine, including Peking Duck. It offers a comfortable dining experience with traditional decor.

• Peking Duck is a must-try, order it in advance if possible.
• Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

Located directly north of the Forbidden City, this park offers a panoramic view of the imperial palace from its summit. It's a great spot for photos, especially at sunset.

• Climb to the Wanchun Pavilion for the best view.
• Combine with a visit to the Forbidden City for a complete historical perspective.

A vibrant pedestrian street famous for its street food and bustling atmosphere. While some offerings are adventurous (like scorpions), you'll also find more conventional snacks and souvenirs.

• Be adventurous and try some local delicacies.
• It can get very crowded, so keep an eye on your belongings.

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

• Visit in the morning to see locals practicing Tai Chi and other activities in the park.
• Consider the combined ticket for access to all main buildings.

A popular spot for authentic Beijing-style hot pot (huoguo). Enjoy a communal dining experience with a variety of fresh ingredients and flavorful broths.

• Try the traditional copper pot with charcoal heating.
• The dipping sauce bar offers many customization options.

A stunning modern architectural marvel, this ellipsoid dome is made of titanium and glass, surrounded by an artificial lake. You can walk around the exterior or book a tour inside.

• Walk through the underwater tunnel to enter the main building.
• Check the schedule for performances if you're interested in attending a show.

A historic commercial street that has been revitalized, blending old architecture with modern shops and restaurants. It's a great place for souvenir shopping and experiencing a more traditional Beijing vibe.

• Look for traditional crafts and snacks.
• Be aware that some shops might employ aggressive sales tactics.

A beautifully restored section of the Great Wall known for its scenic beauty and well-preserved watchtowers. It's less crowded than Badaling and offers cable car and toboggan options.

• Take the cable car up and the toboggan down for a fun experience.
• Wear layers, as the weather can change quickly on the Wall.

Enjoy a simple, hearty meal at a local eatery near the Great Wall. Expect typical Chinese fare like noodles, stir-fries, and rice dishes.

• Look for places with good reviews from other tourists.
• Portions are often generous, suitable for sharing.

Explore Beijing's ancient alleyways (hutongs) by rickshaw or on foot. The Shichahai area offers a glimpse into traditional courtyard homes and local life.

• Opt for a guided tour to learn about the history and culture of the hutongs.
• This is a great way to see a different side of Beijing away from the main attractions.

A vibrant street famous for its countless restaurants, particularly those specializing in spicy crayfish and hot pot. The street is illuminated by red lanterns, creating a lively evening atmosphere.

• Try the 'Mala' (numbing and spicy) crayfish.
• Many restaurants here stay open late.

A former factory complex transformed into a hub for contemporary Chinese art. It features numerous galleries, studios, cafes, and design shops.

• Wear comfortable shoes as there's a lot to explore.
• Check for temporary exhibitions and events.

A charming cafe within the 798 Art District, offering a pleasant break with coffee, light snacks, and a relaxed ambiance. It's a good place to recharge while surrounded by art.

• Enjoy people-watching and the artistic atmosphere.
• A good spot to plan your next gallery visit.

A vast complex of lakes, gardens, and palaces that served as an imperial retreat. Highlights include Longevity Hill, Kunming Lake, and the Long Corridor.

• Rent a boat on Kunming Lake for a different perspective.
• Allocate plenty of time to wander through the extensive grounds.

A lively neighborhood known for its student population, offering a wide array of affordable eateries, bars, and shops. It has a more local and relaxed vibe compared to tourist hotspots.

• Explore the side streets for hidden culinary gems.
• A great place to experience Beijing's nightlife on a budget.

The site of the 2008 Beijing Olympics, featuring iconic structures like the Bird's Nest (National Stadium) and the Water Cube (National Aquatics Center). You can walk around the grounds and admire the architecture.

• Consider booking tickets to enter the Bird's Nest or Water Cube for a closer look.
• Great for photography, especially during the day.

A historical park preserving a section of the original Yuan Dynasty city wall. It offers a quiet escape and a glimpse into Beijing's past urban planning.

• A less crowded historical site, good for a peaceful stroll.
• Learn about the expansion of Beijing during the Yuan Dynasty.

Beijing's trendiest district, known for its upscale shopping malls, international brands, diverse restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. It's a hub for fashion and entertainment.

• Explore the various shopping complexes like Taikoo Li and Sanlitun SOHO.
• Great for people-watching and enjoying a modern urban atmosphere.

A renowned fine-dining restaurant located in a traditional hutong, offering modern European cuisine with artistic presentation. It's a popular choice for special occasions.

• Reservations are essential, often weeks in advance.
• The tasting menu is highly recommended for a comprehensive experience.

One of the oldest and largest imperial gardens in China, featuring a large lake, islands, and historical structures like the White Dagoba. It's a tranquil escape from the city bustle.

• Rent a paddle boat on the lake for a relaxing experience.
• Visit the White Dagoba for panoramic views of the park and city.

A highly-rated restaurant chain famous for its delicious and reasonably priced Peking Duck. It offers a more casual dining experience than some high-end establishments.

• Expect queues, especially during peak hours.
• The duck is carved tableside, adding to the experience.

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

• Dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees.
• The temple is an active place of worship, so be mindful of ongoing ceremonies.

A bustling hutong area filled with trendy bars, boutiques, cafes, and snack shops. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists to explore in the evening.

• Sample the various street foods and local snacks.
• It can get very crowded, especially on weekends.

Located on the eastern side of Tiananmen Square, this vast museum showcases China's extensive history and art. Its collections span ancient artifacts to modern revolutionary history.

• Admission is free, but pre-booking a time slot online is often required.
• Focus on specific galleries if time is limited, as the museum is enormous.

A restaurant specializing in traditional Beijing dishes, offering a chance to try authentic local cuisine in a comfortable setting. Dishes include Zhajiangmian (fried sauce noodles) and various dumplings.

• Zhajiangmian is a signature dish worth trying.
• Good for experiencing local flavors without venturing too far from central attractions.

This ancient temple complex is dedicated to Confucius and was once the highest institution of learning in China. It's a peaceful site with beautiful courtyards and historical inscriptions.

• Combine visits to both the Temple of Confucius and the Imperial College.
• A quieter historical site offering a different perspective on imperial China.

A less touristy food street offering a variety of local snacks and casual dining options. It provides a more authentic glimpse into everyday Beijing life.

• Try local pastries and street food.
• A good spot for an informal dinner.

A vast weekend market where you can find everything from genuine antiques and art to reproductions, crafts, and collectibles. It's a treasure trove for bargain hunters and art lovers.

• Bargaining is expected; start by offering about 30-50% of the asking price.
• Be discerning, as many items are reproductions. Go with knowledgeable friends if possible.

Enjoy a casual lunch at a restaurant serving traditional Beijing home-style dishes. These often feature hearty, flavorful meals made with local ingredients.

• Look for dishes like braised pork belly or stewed lamb.
• A good way to refuel after a morning at the market.

A picturesque area surrounding Houhai Lake, known for its scenic beauty, traditional courtyard houses (siheyuan), and lively bars and cafes. It's a popular spot for leisurely strolls.

• Consider renting a bike to explore the area.
• Enjoy the sunset views over the lake.

A highly-regarded vegetarian restaurant offering creative and refined plant-based dishes inspired by traditional Chinese cuisine. It provides an elegant dining experience.

• Reservations are strongly recommended.
• The tasting menu is a good way to sample a variety of their innovative dishes.

The former residence of Heshen, a corrupt official under Emperor Qianlong, and later the mansion of Prince Gong. It's one of the best-preserved imperial mansions in Beijing.

• Explore both the residential area and the exquisite gardens.
• Learn about the history of the mansion and its famous residents.

Dine in a traditional courtyard setting, enjoying authentic Beijing cuisine. These restaurants offer a tranquil ambiance amidst the bustling hutongs.

• Many restaurants in this area offer set menus.
• Enjoy the unique atmosphere of dining in a siheyuan.

Admire the striking modern architecture of the 'Giant Egg' from the outside. The surrounding park and water features offer excellent photo opportunities.

• Walk through the underground passage to access the building.
• Enjoy the contrast between modern and traditional architecture in the vicinity.

Experience the traditional Chinese art form of Peking Opera, known for its elaborate costumes, symbolic makeup, and unique vocalizations. Several theaters offer nightly performances.

• Consider a performance with English subtitles or an audio guide.
• Book tickets in advance, especially for popular shows.

Discover Beijing's urban development and future plans through detailed models and exhibits. It offers insight into the city's growth and architectural projects.

• The large-scale model of Beijing is particularly impressive.
• A good way to understand the city's layout and development.

While the original street food market has largely been replaced by more permanent eateries, the area still offers a variety of local snacks and casual dining. Look for shops serving traditional Beijing fare.

• Explore the surrounding streets for authentic food options.
• A good place for a final taste of Beijing's culinary scene.

A historic street renowned for its antique shops, bookstores, calligraphy supplies, and traditional crafts. It's a great place for last-minute souvenir shopping.

• Look for traditional Chinese paintings, calligraphy brushes, and tea sets.
• Bargain politely for better prices.

Beijing Capital International Airport is a major international gateway. Ensure you arrive with ample time for check-in and security procedures.

• Allow at least 3 hours for international flights.
• Consider pre-booking airport transfer for convenience.