Beijing in 5 Days: Unveiling the Heart of China’s Capital
- Stuart Sokoloff
- Mar 12
- 4 min read
Updated: Apr 8
Beijing, a city where ancient history meets modern innovation, offers iconic landmarks like the Forbidden City, Great Wall, and Summer Palace, alongside bustling markets and a rich culinary scene. From historic sites to hidden gems, this 5-day itinerary unveils the heart of China’s vibrant capital.
Day 1: Exploring Imperial Legacies
Morning: Forbidden City
Begin your adventure at the Forbidden City, the former imperial palace that once housed Chinese emperors. Arriving at opening time allows you to appreciate its vast courtyards and intricate architecture before the crowds arrive.
Afternoon: Jingshan Park
Adjacent to the Forbidden City, Jingshan Park offers a serene escape. Climbing to the top of the Wanchun Pavilion provides panoramic views of the Forbidden City—a photographer's dream.
Evening: Lama Temple and Culinary Delights
A short subway ride takes you to the Lama Temple, Beijing's largest Tibetan Buddhist temple. Its vibrant colors and intricate designs are captivating.
Join a Lost Plate food tour, which introduces you to hidden culinary gems accessible via tuk-tuk rides. Sampling local delicacies, including free-flowing beer, provides a delightful end to your day.
Day 2: Temples and Traditional Markets
Morning: Temple of Heaven
Begin at the Temple of Heaven, a masterpiece of Ming Dynasty architecture where emperors once prayed for good harvests. The expansive grounds and the iconic Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests are must-sees.
Afternoon: Pearl Market and Hot Pot Experience
Explore the Pearl Market, offering a chance to haggle for souvenirs.
Nearby, Hongyuan Nanmen Hot Pot provides a memorable lunch. This communal dining experience allows you to cook thinly sliced meats and vegetables in boiling broth at your table—a flavorful introduction to Chinese cuisine.
Evening: Houhai Bar Street
After a rest, venture to Houhai Bar Street, a lively area with bars lining the water. The relaxed atmosphere, combined with karaoke-filled bars, makes for an enjoyable evening.
Day 3: Art Districts and Culinary Adventures
Morning: Wangfujing Street and Snack Street
Stroll along Wangfujing Street, Beijing's premier shopping avenue, and discover the Wangfujing Snack Street. This bustling lane offers a variety of local snacks, from scorpions on sticks to dumplings and bubble cone ice cream.
798 Art District
A DiDi ride takes you to the 798 Art District, a thriving hub for contemporary art. The area is filled with galleries, murals, and sculptures, set within repurposed factory spaces.
Evening: Sanlitun and International Flavors
In Sanlitun, an area popular among expats, enjoy a meal at The Local, known for its mudslide milkshakes.
For dinner, consider Q Mex, offering a brief respite from Chinese cuisine.
Day 4: The Great Wall and Summer Palace
Morning: Great Wall at Badaling
A pre-booked tour takes you to the Badaling section of the Great Wall, the most well-preserved and visited area. Ascending via ski lift and descending by toboggan is exhilarating.
Afternoon: Summer Palace
The Summer Palace captivates with its expansive grounds, the serene Kunming Lake, and the elegant Long Corridor. A boat ride provides a unique perspective of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Evening: Wangfujing Snack Street Revisited
Back in the city, revisit Wangfujing Snack Street to try more local delicacies, including dumplings and bubble cone ice cream.
Dine: A relaxed dinner at Tribe offers a variety of salads, providing a refreshing end to your day.
Day 5: Modern Attractions and Olympic Park
Morning: Beijing Olympic Park
Visit the Olympic Park to admire the Bird's Nest Stadium and the Water Cube from the outside. The architectural designs are impressive.
Afternoon: World's Second-Largest Starbucks
Located near the Olympic Park, the world's second-largest Starbucks offers a unique experience. Each of its three floors has a distinct theme, catering to both coffee enthusiasts and casual visitors.
Evening: Leisurely Dinner and Departure Preparations
A quiet dinner at Le Cabernet provides a final taste of Beijing's culinary scene.
For a refined experience, consider TRB Hutong, located in a historic courtyard, offering a tasting menu that blends modern techniques with traditional flavors.
Before You Leave:
Visa: Apply for a ten-year visa well in advance, as the process can be lengthy and may require multiple attempts.
Footwear: Pack comfortable walking shoes; expect to cover significant distances on foot.
Health Precautions: Consider vaccinations such as typhoid; carry charcoal pills, ginger chews, and Advil for digestive issues.
Water Safety: Use a water filtration bottle, as tap water isn't safe for drinking.
Mobile Apps: Download WeChat for messaging and payments, Beijing Subway for navigation, Hotspot VPN to access restricted websites, and DiDi for ride-hailing.
Cultural Etiquette:
Language: Learn basic Mandarin phrases like "你好" (nǐ hǎo - hello) and "谢谢" (xièxiè - thank you) to enhance interactions. Condé Nast Traveler
Personal Space: Be prepared for closer personal proximity in public spaces, as norms may differ from what you're accustomed to.
Public Behavior: Handshakes are common greetings; avoid initiating bows or hugs. Condé Nast Traveler
Transportation:
Subway System: Beijing's extensive subway is efficient and affordable. Obtain a Yikatong card for convenience.
Public Buses: A vast network of buses is available; they are economical but can be slower due to traffic.
Ride-Sharing: DiDi is widely used; have your destination written in Chinese to assist drivers.
Connectivity:
Internet Access: China's "Great Firewall" restricts many Western websites. Install a VPN before arrival to access services like Google and Facebook.
SIM Cards: Purchase a local SIM card upon arrival for cost-effective data and local calls.
Health and Safety:
Air Quality: Check air quality indexes and limit outdoor activities on high pollution days.
Travel Insurance: Ensure comprehensive coverage for health emergencies and trip cancellations.
Emergency Numbers: Police: 110; Fire: 119; Medical: 120.
Money Matters:
Cashless Payments: Set up WeChat Pay or Alipay for seamless transactions, as many places don't accept credit cards or cash.
Currency: The local currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). While cash is still used, digital payments are increasingly prevalent.
Cultural Considerations:
Respect for Traditions: Dress modestly and maintain respectful behavior, especially in temples.
Bargaining: Common in markets; approach with a friendly attitude.
Public Behavior: Public displays of affection are acceptable but should be discreet in traditional areas.
Best Time to Visit:
Seasons: Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to October) offer mild, pleasant weather.
Peak Seasons: Avoid national holidays like Chinese New Year and National Day (October 1-7) when attractions are crowded and prices rise.
Time Zone:
Standard Time: Beijing operates on China Standard Time (CST), UTC+8.
Emergency Preparedness:
Stay Informed: Keep updated on local news and travel advisories from your embassy.
Emergency Contacts: Have a list of local emergency services and your country's embassy.
