How many days do you need in Beijing?

This itinerary covers 7 days in Beijing, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Beijing?

Plan your perfect 7 days trip to Beijing. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

7-Day Epic Road Trip Itinerary in Beijing, China

Day 1: Explore Historic Beijing

Beijing, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at Julu Restaurant

Start your day with a traditional Chinese breakfast featuring dumplings and congee.

CNY50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Tiananmen Square

Wander around one of the largest public squares in the world, and take photos of the iconic Monument to the People's Heroes.

Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Forbidden City

Dive into the imperial history of China as you stroll through the bright walls of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

CNY60, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Da Dong Roast Duck

Indulge in Peking Duck, known for its crispy skin and rich flavor.

CNY200, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Jingshan Park

Climb to the top of the hill for a panoramic view of the Forbidden City and beyond.

CNY2, 1 hour

5:00PM

Stroll through Wangfujing Street

Visit this famous shopping street and sample local snacks from street vendors.

Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Din Tai Fung

Savor delicious xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) after a long day of exploration.

CNY150, 1.5 hours

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Day 2: Art & Culture Day

Beijing, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at Maan Coffee

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast with pancakes and good coffee.

CNY80, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the 798 Art District

Explore contemporary art galleries and quirky shops in this creative hub.

Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at nearby Café 798

Dine in style with unique dishes inspired by different cuisines.

CNY100, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Red Brick Art Museum

Admire modern architectural designs and a rotating collection of contemporary artworks.

CNY50, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore the Temple of Heaven

Discover this stunning temple where emperors used to pray for good harvests.

CNY40, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Relax at Green T. House Living

Unwind with a peaceful tea experience in a serene setting.

CNY120, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Quanjude

A historic dining spot famous for its traditional Peking Duck.

CNY180, 1.5 hours

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Day 3: Great Wall Adventure

Great Wall of China, China

6:30AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Fuel up for a day of adventure with a buffet breakfast.

Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Badaling Great Wall

Set off early to hit the iconic sections of the Great Wall before the crowds.

Free, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Hike the Great Wall

Experience this awe-inspiring feat of architecture and walk along its historic pathways.

CNY40, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at a local restaurant

Recharge with local dishes near the Great Wall.

CNY80, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Great Wall Museum

Learn more about the history and significance of the Great Wall.

CNY20, 1 hour

3:30PM

Drive back to Beijing

Enjoy the scenic journey back while reflecting on your day.

Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit Olympic Park

Stroll around the iconic Bird's Nest and Water Cube structures.

Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The Coal Hill Restaurant

Experience modern Chinese cuisine with a beautiful view of the park.

CNY150, 1.5 hours

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Day 4: Cultural Heritage Tour

Beijing, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at Huguo Temple Snacks

Taste local Beijing treats for a filling breakfast.

CNY60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Ming Tombs

Explore the stunning burial site of 13 Ming dynasty emperors and stroll through the Sacred Path.

CNY90, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at a Traditional Chinese Restaurant

Savor seasonal dishes featuring ingredients from the region.

CNY100, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Changling Tomb

Explore the largest and best-preserved tomb of the Ming dynasty.

CNY30, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Drive back to Beijing

Relax and enjoy the countryside scenery.

Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Visit the Lama Temple

Marvel at the largest Tibetan Buddhist temple in Beijing, adorned with beautiful art and architecture.

CNY25, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Courtyard

Taste various Northern Chinese dishes in a charming courtyard setting.

CNY120, 1.5 hours

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Day 5: Nature and Serenity Day

Beijing, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at Green Tea Restaurant

Opt for a health-driven breakfast filled with fresh fruits and whole grains.

Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Summer Palace

Stroll through one of the largest and most picturesque royal parks in the world.

CNY45, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Summer Palace

Enjoy a lovely meal with views of Kunming Lake.

CNY120, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Take a Boat Ride on Kunming Lake

Experience the gentle beauty of the lake while taking in the surrounding landscapes.

CNY80, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore Old Summer Palace

Discover the ruins and learn about the history of the Old Summer Palace.

CNY30, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Visit Beihai Park

Relax in this beautiful park filled with cultural relics, gardens, and scenic lakes.

CNY10, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Pavilion

Indulge in delightful Chinese cuisine surrounded by stunning views.

CNY180, 1.5 hours

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Day 6: Cultural Deep Dive

Beijing, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at A Bite of China

Enjoy an authentic breakfast sampling various local dishes.

CNY70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Hutongs

Explore the narrow alleyways of traditional Beijing neighborhoods, giving you a peek into local life.

Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Courtyard Museum

Learn about the historical significance of courtyard residences in Beijing.

CNY20, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Wangfujing Food Street

Experience various street food favorites and local delicacies.

CNY80, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Confucius Temple

Delve into the teachings of Confucius and admire the beautiful architecture.

CNY30, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Visit China National Museum

A fascinating look at China's history spanning thousands of years.

CNY30, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Capital M

Enjoy modern European dishes with stunning views of Tiananmen Square.

CNY250, 1.5 hours

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Day 7: Leisure and Reflection

Beijing, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast as you reflect on your trip.

Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the National Botanical Garden

Take a peaceful stroll in this expansive garden full of diverse plant life.

CNY20, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at mapo tofu restaurant

Dive into authentic Sichuan cuisine featuring spicy mapo tofu.

CNY80, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Beijing Planetarium

Marvel at the wonders of the universe through exciting exhibitions.

CNY50, 2 hours

3:30PM

Relax at Chaoyang Park

Spend your afternoon lounging and mingling with locals in one of the largest parks in the city.

CNY10, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit the National Museum of China

Review the remarkable artifacts and exhibitions showcasing China's rich history.

Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Final Dinner at Nuage Restaurant

Celebrate your week in Beijing with an exquisite dinner featuring both Eastern and Western cuisine.

CNY300, 1.5 hours

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Step 1 Outline Preview:

7-Day Epic Road Trip Itinerary in Beijing, China

Day 1: Explore Historic Beijing

8:00AM

9:30AM

11:00AM

2:00PM

3:30PM

5:00PM

7:00PM

Day 2: Art & Culture Day

8:00AM

9:30AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

3:30PM

5:30PM

7:00PM

Day 3: Great Wall Adventure

6:30AM

8:00AM

9:30AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

3:30PM

5:00PM

6:30PM

Day 4: Cultural Heritage Tour

8:00AM

9:30AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

4:00PM

5:30PM

7:00PM

Day 5: Nature and Serenity Day

8:00AM

9:30AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

3:30PM

5:30PM

7:30PM

Day 6: Cultural Deep Dive

8:00AM

9:30AM

11:30AM

1:00PM

2:30PM

4:30PM

7:00PM

Day 7: Leisure and Reflection

8:00AM

9:30AM

12:00PM

1:30PM

3:30PM

5:00PM

7:30PM

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