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5-Day Ultimate Beijing Itinerary: Discover Historic and Modern Charms

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Day 1: Historic Heart of Beijing

Beijing, China on May 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Dadong Roast Duck Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Beijing breakfast featuring local specialities in a renowned restaurant famous for its Peking Duck.
CNY80, 1h

9:30am

Tiananmen Square

Explore the world's largest public square, rich in modern Chinese history and home to iconic monuments and government buildings.
Free, 1h30m

11:15am

Forbidden City

Visit the grand imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties, with lavish architecture, extensive courtyards, and fascinating exhibits.
CNY60, 3h

2:30pm

Lunch at Quanjude Roast Duck Restaurant

Savour authentic Peking Duck at this iconic restaurant, known for its crispy duck and traditional preparation methods.
CNY150, 1h

4:00pm

Jingshan Park

Climb to the top of this man-made hill for panoramic views of the Forbidden City and Beijing skyline, ideal for photography.
CNY10, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Bai Jia Da Yuan Restaurant

Experience royal Qing Dynasty-style banquet in an elegant courtyard setting, offering imperial cuisine.
CNY200, 1h30m
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Day 2: Cultural and Shopping Experience

Beijing, China on May 26, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at a local breakfast market near hotel

Sample Chinese breakfast staples like jianbing (savory crepes) or soy milk from street vendors in a bustling market.
CNY20, 1h

9:00am

Temple of Heaven

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site where emperors prayed for good harvests, noted for its unique circular architecture and gardens.
CNY40, 2h

11:30am

Lunch at Din Tai Fung Wangfujing Branch

Enjoy delicate and famous Taiwanese dim sum and dumplings near Wangfujing Street, perfect for a lighter midday meal.
CNY100, 1h

1:00pm

Wangfujing Street

Stroll along Beijing’s premier shopping street with boutiques, snack stalls, and vibrant nightlife options.
Free to explore, 2h

3:30pm

National Museum of China

Visit this vast museum on the eastern side of Tiananmen Square showcasing Chinese art and history from ancient to modern times.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Jing Yaa Tang

Dine on sophisticated northern Chinese dishes in a stylish setting located inside The Opposite House hotel.
CNY180, 1h30m
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Day 3: Great Wall Adventure

Beijing, China on May 27, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Have a quick and energising breakfast to prepare for a day trip to the Great Wall.
Included in hotel, 30m

8:00am

Travel to Great Wall at Mutianyu

A scenic drive to Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, less crowded and well-preserved for hiking and sightseeing.
Round trip transport approx. CNY300, 1h30m

9:45am

Great Wall at Mutianyu

Hike along this stunning part of the Wall featuring watchtowers and beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
CNY45 (entrance); CNY100 (cable car optional), 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Schoolhouse

Enjoy Western-style and local dishes at this highly regarded restaurant near Mutianyu with lovely views.
CNY120, 1h

2:30pm

Return to Beijing city

Travel back to Beijing to rest after an active morning on the Great Wall.
Included in transport cost, 1h30m

5:00pm

Leisure walk in Houhai Lake area

Relax and soak in the atmosphere of this historic area with traditional hutong alleys, cafes, and bars.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Migas Mercado

Taste contemporary Spanish cuisine and tapas in a lively setting close to Houhai lakes.
CNY150, 1h30m
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Day 4: Royal Gardens and Modern Architecture

Beijing, China on May 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Start with a nourishing meal at the hotel before heading out to the Summer Palace.
Included in hotel, 45m

9:00am

Summer Palace

Explore this vast imperial garden and lake, with beautiful pavilions, bridges, and historic halls showcasing Qing dynasty artistry.
CNY60, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Summer Palace nearby restaurant

Dine on traditional Chinese dishes in a tranquil setting close to the palace grounds.
CNY80, 1h

2:00pm

Beijing Olympic Park

Visit the iconic Bird’s Nest Stadium and Water Cube aquatic center from the 2008 Olympics highlighting modern Chinese engineering and design.
Free entry to park; stadium tours extra, 2h

5:00pm

Relax at hotel or explore local neighborhood

Rest or take a light walk in the vicinity of your hotel to absorb local life and prepare for dinner.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Da Dong Roast Duck Restaurant (Xidan branch)

Savour one of Beijing’s best and most modern interpretations of the Peking Duck tradition in an elegant atmosphere.
CNY220, 1h30m
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Day 5: Art and Spiritual Exploration

Beijing, China on May 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Flatwhite

Start the day with quality coffee and Western-style breakfast in the trendy Art District.
CNY60, 1h

9:30am

Lama Temple (Yonghe Temple)

Visit one of the largest and most important Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in the world, famous for its colorful decorations and giant Buddha statue.
CNY25, 1h30m

11:30am

798 Art District

Explore contemporary art galleries, boutique shops, and cafes housed in a repurposed industrial complex reflecting Beijing’s vibrant art scene.
Free entry, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at At Cafe

Enjoy fresh salads, sandwiches, and coffee at a hip spot amidst 798’s galleries.
CNY70, 1h

3:00pm

Silk Market or Panjiayuan Antique Market

Do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs and artisan crafts at these vibrant markets known for variety and bargains.
Free entrance, 2h

6:00pm

Farewell Dinner at TRB Hutong

Delight in contemporary European cuisine in a converted traditional courtyard house for an unforgettable final evening.
CNY350, 2h
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