Beijing - 4 Days Itinerary

Arrival & Hotel Check-in

Arrive in Beijing, transfer to your hotel, and check in.

Settle in and prepare for an afternoon of exploration.

Early check-in might be possible; confirm with the hotel beforehand. Have some local currency (CNY) for initial expenses.

Lunch near Wangfujing

Enjoy a traditional Chinese lunch in the bustling Wangfujing area, offering a wide array of dining options from street food to upscale restaurants.

Tiananmen Square

Visit the iconic Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world, surrounded by significant historical buildings.

Security checks are frequent; bring your passport. Access to the square is usually free.

Forbidden City & Meridian Gate

Explore the majestic Forbidden City, the former imperial palace, entering through the Meridian Gate.

Discover its grand halls and courtyards.

Book tickets online in advance, as same-day tickets are limited and often sell out. Closed on Mondays.

Evening Stroll Wangfujing

Take an evening stroll down Wangfujing Street, famous for its shopping, food stalls, and vibrant atmosphere.

Explore Wuyutai, a historic tea shop.

The street is lively at night. You can find both international brands and local souvenirs. Wuyutai is a great spot for authentic Chinese tea.

Dinner in Wangfujing

Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants around Wangfujing, offering diverse cuisines.

Temple of Heaven Park

Visit the majestic Temple of Heaven, where emperors once performed annual ceremonies of prayer for good harvest.

Witness locals practicing tai chi, calligraphy, and other activities.

Arrive early to see local activities. Purchase a 'through ticket' to access all main halls. Use Beijing Subway (id: beijing-subway) for easy access.

Lunch in Hutong Area

Enjoy lunch at a charming local restaurant within one of Beijing's historic hutong (narrow alleyway) districts.

Private Hutong Tour

Experience Beijing's traditional charm with a guided tour through its ancient hutongs.

You can choose from walking, rickshaw, or bike tours to discover hidden courtyards, local life, and historical anecdotes.

This tour offers a unique perspective on local life and architecture. Consider 'Our Beijing' (id: our-beijing) or 'Discover Beijing Tours' (id: discover-beijing-tours) for a personalized experience.

Bell & Drum Towers

Visit the Bell and Drum Towers, historical landmarks that once served as the official timekeepers for the city.

Enjoy panoramic views of the hutong area.

There are sometimes drum performances; check schedules upon arrival.

Peking Duck Dinner

Indulge in an authentic Peking Duck dinner, a culinary highlight of Beijing.

Many famous restaurants specialize in this dish.

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for popular establishments.

Beijing Capital Museum

Explore the Beijing Capital Museum, featuring extensive collections of ancient Chinese art, historical artifacts, and exhibitions on Beijing's history and culture.

A fantastic building with unique Chinese art. Reserve tickets online in advance. Closed on Mondays. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g294212-d605769-Reviews-Beijing_Capital_Museum-Beijing.html?m=66827

Lunch in a Modern District

Enjoy lunch in a contemporary part of Beijing, such as the Central Business District (CBD) or Sanlitun, offering a mix of international and modern Chinese cuisine.

Beijing Planning Exhibition Hall

Visit the Beijing Planning Exhibition Hall to see the city's urban planning history, future development plans, and a massive scale model of Beijing.

Offers a fascinating insight into Beijing's past, present, and future. Check opening hours as they can vary.

Leisure & Shopping

Enjoy some leisure time, perhaps doing some souvenir shopping or relaxing at a traditional tea house.

Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a final dinner in Beijing.

You might opt for a cuisine you haven't tried yet or revisit a favorite.

Evening Leisure

Relax at your hotel or enjoy a casual drink, preparing for the next part of your journey.

Beijing Capital Museum

Explore 5 floors of unique Chinese art and historical exhibitions, gaining insight into Beijing's rich heritage.

The museum is renowned for its fantastic building and displays.

Admission is free, but booking a ticket online in advance is highly recommended, especially for Friday mornings, as it can get busy. Allow ample time to appreciate the extensive collections.

Local Beijing Lunch

Enjoy authentic Beijing cuisine at a local restaurant near the Capital Museum.

Options range from traditional noodles and dumplings to more elaborate dishes.

Ask locals for recommendations or look for busy eateries to find popular spots.

Wuyutai Tea Shop

Visit Wuyutai, a highly-rated tea shop, to experience traditional Chinese tea culture.

You can sample various teas, learn about brewing methods, and purchase souvenirs.

Wuyutai is famous for its jasmine tea. It's a great spot to pick up authentic Chinese tea as gifts or for your own enjoyment.

Last-Minute Souvenirs

Spend some time picking up any last-minute souvenirs or gifts in the Wangfujing area, which is known for its shopping streets and markets.

Look for unique items like silk products, traditional crafts, or local snacks.

Travel to Beijing Capital Airport (PEK)

Head to Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) for your departing flight.

Allow sufficient time for traffic and airport procedures.