7 days in Beijing, China: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
A kaleidoscope of ancient history and modern sophistication, Beijing can captivate even the most seasoned traveler. This sprawling metropolis boasts stunning landmarks like the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven. Roaming Beijing’s lively streets, you’ll find mouthwatering cuisine, bustling markets, and a cultural experience unlike any other. So, gear up for a fascinating journey through this Chinese gem that has so much to offer!
Things to consider before arriving in Beijing
Delicious street food scene
Rich in history and culture
Severe air pollution at times
Perfect for history buffs and food lovers
In Beijing, you’ll also want to keep in mind that:
– Smog levels can vary throughout the year
– English is not widely spoken, so learning basic Mandarin phrases can be helpful
– The city is very large, so plan your activities in advance
What to bring with you
– Comfortable walking shoes for exploring monuments and attractions
– Anti-pollution face mask for smoggy days
– Clothing for varying weather conditions
– A phrasebook or translation app
– An electrical adapter (Type A/I)
Best time of the year to visit Beijing
Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are the optimal seasons to visit Beijing. The weather is mild, attractions are less crowded, and air pollution levels are often lower.
How to get into the city
1. By plane: Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) serves as the main gateway to the city. From the airport, take the Airport Express train, taxi, or bus to your destination.
2. By train: Travel to Beijing by high-speed train from numerous cities across China. The city features several train stations, with Beijing Railway Station and Beijing West Railway Station being the most prominent ones.
3. By bus: Long-distance buses connect Beijing to other cities in China. The major bus stations include Liuliqiao, Yongdingmen, and Sihui.
7 Day City Guide Trip to Beijing
Day 1: Exploring the Historical Centre
Start the day early by visiting the Forbidden City and its stunning architecture. After, take a short walk to Tiananmen Square, one of the world’s largest public squares, and visit the Mao Zedong Memorial Hall. For lunch, you can indulge your appetite with some tasty Peking duck, a Beijing specialty, at the famous Da Dong Roast Duck Restaurant. Spend the afternoon exploring the hutongs, traditional alleyways, and learn about the city’s ancient history.
Day 2: Great Wall of China
Take a day trip to the Great Wall of China, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. You can choose from different sections to visit, but Badaling and Mutianyu are the most popular. It’s recommended to go early, so you avoid crowds. After your walk along the Great Wall, enjoy a traditional Chinese lunch at a nearby local restaurant.
Day 3: Modern Beijing
Visit the futuristic skyscrapers of the Central Business District, including the CCTV Headquarters, sometimes called “big pants” because of its unique design. In the afternoon, head to the 798 Art Zone, an artistic hub filled with galleries, cafes, and shops.
Day 4: Summer Palace and Temple of Heaven
In the morning, visit the Summer Palace, a beautiful park with a large lake and palace-like buildings. After lunch, visit the Temple of Heaven, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its architecture and cultural significance.
Day 5: Beihai Park and Lama Temple
Beihai Park is a great place to relax, walk around, or take a boat ride on a lake. Afterward, head to the Lama Temple, the most famous Tibetan Buddhist temple outside of Tibet located in the center of the city.
Day 6: Olympic Park
Visit the Olympic Park, built for the 2008 Summer Olympics, and see the iconic Bird’s Nest and Water Cube. Afterward, explore the nearby areas, such as the National Aquatics Centre or the Olympic Forest Park.
Day 7: Shopping and Street Food
Shop and eat your way through the popular Wangfujing shopping street, where you can find everything from souvenirs to high-end luxury brands. Don’t miss the bustling food market, where you can try local street food, such as fried scorpions or “jianbing,” a traditional Chinese crepe.
How to Continue Your Travel after You Have Spent 7 Days in Beijing
Shanghai
Take a high-speed train to Shanghai, China’s largest city, known for its modern architecture, vibrant nightlife, and delicious food. Visit The Bund, a waterfront promenade, and see some of the world’s tallest buildings, such as the Shanghai Tower and the Oriental Pearl Tower. Don’t forget to try Shanghai’s famous soup dumplings.
Xian
Take a flight to Xian, one of China’s oldest cities, famous for its Terracotta Warriors, an army of sculpted soldiers that dates back to 210 BCE. Other highlights include the ancient city wall, the Muslim Quarter, and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda.
