Beijing

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Beijing's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring the Great Wall
morning
:

Start your day early by visiting the Badaling section of the Great Wall. Enjoy the breathtaking views and take plenty of photos as you walk along the ancient structure.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head to the Mutianyu section for a quieter experience. You can take a cable car up for stunning sights and then hike down through the scenic area.

evening
:

Return to the city and enjoy dinner in a local restaurant. Try the famous Peking duck to end your day.

day 2
Forbidden City Adventure
morning
:

Begin your day at Tiananmen Square, where you can learn about its historical significance. Then, stroll over to the Forbidden City to witness imperial architecture.

afternoon
:

Explore the vast halls and courtyards of the Forbidden City and learn about the lives of emperors. Don't forget to check out the beautiful gardens within the palace.

evening
:

Head to Wangfujing Street for some mouth-watering street food. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and shop for snacks or souvenirs.

day 3
Nature Retreat in the Summer Palace
morning
:

Visit the Summer Palace to enjoy a tranquil morning amidst beautiful gardens and lakes. Rent a boat on Kunming Lake for a unique perspective of the palace.

afternoon
:

Explore the Long Corridor and climb up to the Tower of Buddhist Incense for breathtaking views of the park. Take time to relax and soak in the serene environment.

evening
:

Stroll through the nearby area and grab dinner at a local eatery. Consider enjoying a traditional tea ceremony for a cultural experience.

day 4
Cultural Insights at the Temple of Heaven
morning
:

Visit the Temple of Heaven Park early to see locals practicing tai chi. Explore the stunning architecture of the temple where emperors prayed for good harvests.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely walk through the surrounding park, where you can engage with local residents and partake in activities. Try some snacks from the market vendors.

evening
:

Head to a nearby restaurant for traditional Beijing cuisine. You might catch a local performance or dance showcase after dinner.

day 5
Art and History in 798 Art District
morning
:

Spend your morning exploring the 798 Art District, a hub for contemporary Chinese art. Visit galleries and installations housed in repurposed factories.

afternoon
:

Enjoy coffee at a trendy café while appreciating the artistic flair of the district. You can also shop for unique art pieces and souvenirs.

evening
:

Dine at a nearby restaurant that highlights local flavors. Take your time to savor the food and enjoy the artistic vibe around you.

day 6
Shopping Day at Silk Market
morning
:

Begin your shopping adventure at the Silk Market, famous for its textiles and souvenirs. Practice your bargaining skills to get the best deals.

afternoon
:

Explore the different floors, where you can find everything from clothing to handicrafts. Take a break and grab lunch at the food court with various Asian cuisines.

evening
:

Finish the day by visiting a local night market for more shopping and street food. Try out local delicacies and soak in the lively atmosphere.

day 7
Historical Sites and Hutong Exploration
morning
:

Start with a visit to the Hutongs, traditional alleys that showcase old Beijing's architecture. Hire a rickshaw to navigate the narrow streets while learning about local culture.

afternoon
:

Visit the Drum Tower and the Bell Tower for a glimpse into Beijing's musical history. Enjoy lunch in a local restaurant within the hutongs.

evening
:

Afterward, relax at a tea house for a soothing end to the day.

day 8
Beijing Zoo and Panda Garden
morning
:

Visit Beijing Zoo early to see the famous Giant Pandas before the crowds arrive. Enjoy watching the playful pandas and other exotic animals.

afternoon
:

Explore more of the zoo and then head to the nearby Beijing Aquarium, one of the largest in the world. Learn about marine life through interactive exhibits.

evening
:

Dine at a restaurant specializing in Sichuan cuisine. Enjoy flavorful dishes to cap off your day of exploration.

day 9
Night Tour of the City Lights
morning
:

Spend your morning visiting the National Museum of China to understand the history and culture. Make sure to check out the exhibitions that interest you.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the surrounding area, admiring the architecture and parks. Take a break at a café for refreshments.

evening
:

Embark on a night tour around Wangfujing and enjoy the illuminated cityscape. Seek out a local spot for dinner and savor the nightlife.

day 10
Temple Explorations and Relaxation
morning
:

Visit the Lama Temple, one of the largest Tibetan Buddhist temples outside Tibet. Enjoy the intricate architecture and peaceful surroundings.

afternoon
:

Explore the nearby Confucius Temple, which offers insights into Chinese philosophy and education. Take time to appreciate the traditional gardens.

evening
:

Conclude the day with a visit to a traditional Chinese spa. Pamper yourself with massages and therapies to unwind after a busy day.

Discover Beijing

Read more in our Beijing 2024 Travel Guide.

Beijing Travel Guide