Beijing, the heart of China, stands as a compelling destination for travelers seeking a profound immersion into a land where ancient history and modern dynamism converge. This guide serves as your essential companion for a 4-day journey through this captivating capital, offering a meticulously planned itinerary and vital information to ensure a truly memorable first encounter.
Understanding Beijing: A City of History and Modernity
Beijing’s significance as the capital of the People’s Republic of China is deeply rooted in its extensive past, a narrative etched across centuries and the reigns of numerous imperial dynasties. The city’s landscape uniquely blends the grandeur of historical sites, such as the Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven, with the sleek modernity of its urban development, exemplified by the Central Business District’s skyline and the innovative architecture of the Olympic Park.
This fascinating juxtaposition offers a rich tapestry of experiences, appealing to a broad spectrum of interests, from the avid historian to the contemporary culture enthusiast. The enduring presence of historical landmarks alongside a rapidly evolving modern cityscape creates a unique atmosphere of both reverence for the past and excitement for the future. This blend is a defining characteristic of Beijing, offering a richer travel experience than just visiting historical sites.
Beyond its historical and cultural importance, Beijing functions as a major economic and transportation hub within China. This central role ensures a well-developed infrastructure that caters to the needs of tourists, providing convenient access to various parts of the city and its surrounding areas. However, Beijing’s prominence also means it can be a bustling metropolis, with popular attractions often experiencing significant crowds. Therefore, strategic planning and an awareness of peak times are essential for visitors to navigate the city efficiently and maximize their time.
Your 4-Day Beijing Itinerary: A Perfect Blend of Culture and Adventure
This itinerary is a suggestion, a framework to inspire your exploration of Beijing. Feel free to adjust it based on your personal interests, travel style, and preferred pace.
Day 1: Imperial Grandeur
Begin your exploration at Tiananmen Square (天安门广场), one of the largest public squares in the world, a site that has witnessed both moments of national pride and significant historical events. The square is flanked by several important buildings, including the Great Hall of the People, the National Museum of China, and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong. Before visiting the Mausoleum, be aware that bags are not permitted inside and must be stored beforehand. The vastness of Tiananmen Square can be initially overwhelming, but understanding its historical context, encompassing both periods of national glory and more somber moments, significantly enhances its impact.
From Tiananmen Square, proceed to the magnificent Forbidden City (紫禁城), also known as the Palace Museum (故宫博物院), the former imperial palace that served as the seat of power for two dynasties. This sprawling complex, the largest palace complex globally with nearly 10,000 rooms, showcases the pinnacle of Chinese architecture and offers a profound sense of history, having been home to 24 emperors. Due to the Forbidden City’s immense popularity and limited daily visitor capacity, it is highly recommended to book your tickets well in advance. Allow at least 2 to 4 hours to explore its key halls and courtyards. Consider enhancing your visit with an audio guide to gain deeper insights into the palace’s rich history and intricate details. The sheer scale of the Forbidden City means visitors should prioritize what they want to see and not try to cover everything in one visit. Note that the Forbidden City is closed on Mondays.
Conclude your first day with a visit to Jingshan Park (景山公园), located just north of the Forbidden City. This park offers panoramic views of the Forbidden City, providing a valuable vantage point to appreciate the scale and layout of the imperial palace, especially its golden rooftops. Many recommend visiting Jingshan Park after exploring the Forbidden City to gain a contrasting perspective.
Day 2: Scaling the Majestic Wall
Dedicate your second day to experiencing the awe-inspiring Great Wall of China (长城). For first-time visitors, the Mutianyu (慕田峪) section is highly recommended due to its relatively fewer crowds and picturesque scenery. While Badaling (八达岭) is another popular section, it tends to be much more crowded. Reaching Mutianyu involves approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour journey from central Beijing. Hiring a private car offers the most flexibility for your day trip, allowing you to tailor your timing and itinerary. Alternatively, public transportation is available via bus 916 Express to Huairou Beidajie station, followed by the H23 bus to Mutianyu.
At Mutianyu, enhance your experience by taking a cable car or chairlift up to the wall, offering scenic views of the surrounding landscape. For a fun and unique descent, consider taking the toboggan slide. Remember to bring cash for the entry fee and ensure you have an adequate supply of water, as it can be more expensive to purchase on the wall. The Great Wall experience can be significantly enhanced by choosing a less crowded section and utilizing available transport options to maximize time on the wall itself.
If time permits after your Great Wall excursion, you might consider an optional visit to the Ming Tombs (明十三陵), the burial site for 13 of the 16 Ming Dynasty emperors. Highlights include the Sacred Road (神道), lined with impressive stone animal statues, and Ding Ling (定陵), the only tomb currently open to the public. Visiting the Ming Tombs provides a tangible connection to the emperors whose reign shaped much of Beijing’s historical landscape.
Day 3: Spiritual Sanctuaries and Royal Retreats
Begin your third day at the Temple of Heaven (天坛), a masterpiece of Ming Dynasty architecture where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties performed annual rites to pray for good harvests. Key structures within the complex include the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests (祈年殿), with its distinctive triple-tiered roof, and the Circular Mound Altar (圜丘坛), a perfectly circular platform. The Temple of Heaven’s unique circular design symbolizes heaven, reflecting ancient Chinese cosmology. The temple complex is set within a large park where locals often gather to practice tai chi, dance, and engage in other recreational activities, offering visitors a glimpse into contemporary Beijing life. Allow approximately 1 to 2 hours to explore the Temple of Heaven. Note the opening hours, as the park and outer gates open earlier than the temples themselves. The Temple of Heaven’s emphasis on harmony and the connection between heaven and earth provides a deeper understanding of Chinese cosmology and imperial rule.
In the afternoon, visit the Summer Palace (颐和园), a sprawling imperial garden that served as a summer retreat for the Qing Dynasty emperors. This breathtaking garden features the expansive Kunming Lake (昆明湖), the majestic Longevity Hill (万寿山), and numerous halls, pavilions, and temples. Don’t miss the iconic Marble Boat (石舫), the intricately painted Long Corridor (长廊), and the Hall of Well-being and Longevity (仁寿殿). Consider taking a leisurely boat ride on Kunming Lake to further appreciate the palace’s scenic beauty. Allow at least 2 to 3 hours to explore the Summer Palace. In winter, the frozen lake transforms into a giant playground for ice skating. The Summer Palace showcases the Qing emperors’ appreciation for art, nature, and elaborate garden design.
Day 4: Exploring Old Beijing and Beyond
Begin your final day by delving into the heart of Old Beijing through its traditional alleyways known as hutongs (胡同). These narrow lanes, lined with traditional courtyard residences, offer a fascinating glimpse into the city’s historical fabric and the daily lives of its residents. Explore different hutong areas, each with its unique charm. Nanluoguxiang (南锣鼓巷) is a popular choice, known for its trendy shops, cafes, and eateries. Shichahai (什刹海) and Houhai (后海) offer a more relaxed atmosphere with their lakeside setting, dotted with bars and restaurants, and opportunities for boating in summer and ice skating in winter. Qianmen (前门) is a historic commercial street that blends old and new. Consider taking a traditional rickshaw tour to navigate the hutongs and gain a different perspective. You might also opt for a guided hutong food tour to sample local snacks and delicacies. Exploring hutongs offers a more intimate and personal connection to Beijing’s cultural heritage and the daily lives of its residents.
For your final afternoon, you have the option to explore Beijing’s modern architectural marvels or delve into another aspect of its rich culture. Consider visiting the Olympic Park (奥林匹克公园), home to the iconic Beijing National Stadium (Bird’s Nest (鸟巢)) and the National Aquatics Center (Water Cube (水立方)). Visiting these structures in the evening when they are beautifully illuminated is particularly recommended. Alternatively, art enthusiasts might enjoy a visit to the 798 Art District (798艺术区), a hub of contemporary art galleries and studios. Another compelling option is a visit to the Lama Temple (雍和宫), one of Beijing’s most significant and well-preserved Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, known for its stunning Tibetan architecture and vibrant spiritual atmosphere.
Essential Information for Your Beijing Journey
Navigating Beijing effectively requires understanding its transportation system, accommodation options, culinary scene, and essential practicalities.
Getting Around Beijing:
Beijing boasts an extensive and efficient public transportation network, making it relatively easy for tourists to navigate the city. The subway system is a cornerstone of this network, offering a fast and affordable way to reach most major attractions. With over 25 lines and nearly 500 stations, the subway covers a vast area of the city. Key lines for tourists include Line 1 (passes through Tiananmen Square and Wangfujing), Line 2 (circular line connecting many central attractions), Line 4 (reaches the Summer Palace and Beijing Zoo), Line 5 (goes to the Temple of Heaven and Lama Temple), Line 6 (serves Nanluoguxiang and Beihai North), and Line 10 (circles the city and connects to many other lines).
Tickets for the subway can be purchased as single-ride tickets, or you can opt for a stored-value card like the Yikatong (一卡通) or Hutong Card for added convenience. Mobile payment through apps like Alipay and WeChat is also widely accepted for subway travel. To ensure a smoother journey, try to avoid traveling during peak hours (7-9 AM and 5:30-8:30 PM) when trains can be very crowded. Be prepared for security checks at all subway stations. Announcements inside the subway cars are typically made in both English and Chinese. Most subway stations have multiple exits, so pay attention to the signs to ensure you choose the correct one for your destination. For travel to and from the airports, Beijing has dedicated Airport Express lines (Capital Airport Express and Daxing Airport Express).
Beijing also has an extensive bus network, offering another affordable way to get around the city. However, navigating the bus system might be more challenging for first-time visitors as bus stops and announcements are often primarily in Chinese. Sightseeing buses are available for tourists, often covering major attractions. Payment for buses can be made using cash, a transportation card, or mobile payment apps.
Taxis are widely available in Beijing, providing a convenient option, although they can be harder to hail during rush hour. Most taxi drivers have limited English proficiency, so it’s advisable to have your destination written down in Chinese characters to show them. Ride-sharing apps like Didi (滴滴出行) have become increasingly popular and offer a user-friendly alternative, often with an English interface. Note that Didi may not always accept cash payments.
Exploring certain areas of Beijing, particularly the hutongs, can be enjoyable by bicycle, with bike-sharing services readily available.
| Mode of Transport | Estimated Cost | Pros | Cons |
| Subway | ¥3-¥10 per trip | Fast, affordable, extensive network | Can be crowded, especially during rush hour |
| Bus | ¥2-¥12 per trip | Affordable, reaches many areas | Language barrier, can be slow due to traffic |
| Taxi | ¥13 starting fare, ¥2.3-¥3.3/km | Convenient, direct | Can be expensive, traffic congestion, language barrier |
| Ride-Sharing | Varies | Convenient, often English interface | Requires internet access, surge pricing |
| Bicycle | ¥1.5-¥2 per 30 mins | Scenic, flexible for exploring local areas | Limited range, not suitable for long distances |
Where to Stay in Beijing:
Choosing the right area to stay can significantly impact your travel experience. Several districts are particularly popular among tourists. Wangfujing (王府井) is a bustling central area known for its shopping street and proximity to major attractions like the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square. Qianmen (前门) offers a more budget-friendly option with a historical ambiance, also conveniently located near Tiananmen Square and the Temple of Heaven. For a more traditional and romantic setting, consider Houhai (后海) or Shichahai (什刹海), known for their lakeside charm and traditional architecture. Gulou (鼓楼), meaning “drum tower,” is in the heart of old Beijing and offers an authentic local experience with charming hutongs. Finally, Sanlitun (三里屯) is a vibrant hub known for its nightlife and shopping.
Here are some recommended hotels in these areas across different budget ranges:
| Area | Budget | Hotel Name | Brief Description/Key Features |
| Wangfujing | Luxury | The Peninsula Beijing (王府半岛酒店) | Elegant, central location, excellent service |
| Wangfujing | Luxury | Waldorf Astoria Beijing (北京华尔道夫酒店) | Blends Chinese tradition with modern sophistication, great location |
| Wangfujing | Luxury | Mandarin Oriental Wangfujing (北京王府井文华东方酒店) | Refined sanctuary, panoramic Forbidden City views |
| Wangfujing | Mid-Range | Sunworld Dynasty Hotel Beijing Wangfujing (北京王府大饭店) | Modern and traditional elements, near Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square |
| Wangfujing | Mid-Range | Park Plaza Beijing Wangfujing (北京丽晶酒店) | Modern luxury, close to shopping and attractions |
| Qianmen | Mid-Range | New World Beijing Hotel (北京新世界酒店) | Modern, upscale, near Qianmen and Temple of Heaven |
| Qianmen | Budget-Friendly | Qianmen Courtyard Hotel (前门客栈) | Traditional Chinese decor, charming courtyard |
| Houhai | Mid-Range | Shichahai Sandalwood Boutique Hotel (什刹海紫檀酒店) | Traditional building, exclusive experience |
| Houhai | Budget-Friendly | Peking Youth Hostel | Social atmosphere, roof garden |
| Gulou | Mid-Range | The Orchid Hotel (北京兰花酒店) | Authentic China experience, various room types |
| Sanlitun | Luxury | The Opposite House (瑜舍) | Contemporary design, art gallery |
| Sanlitun | Mid-Range | BEI Zhaolong Hotel, JdV by Hyatt (北京兆龙饭店) | Modern rooms, good location |
| Hutong Area | Budget-Friendly | Leo Hostel | Social hostel, convenient location |
Read more: 8 Best Beijing 5-Star Hotels (Reasons + Prices + Routes)
A Culinary Adventure: Must-Try Foods and Restaurants
Beijing’s cuisine is a delightful blend of flavors, influenced by the nearby coastal province of Shandong and the culinary traditions of the Imperial Kitchen. No trip to Beijing is complete without indulging in some of its most iconic dishes.
Must-Try Foods
- Peking Duck (北京烤鸭): Perhaps the most famous dish from Beijing, known for its thin, crispy skin and succulent meat, often served with pancakes, scallions, cucumber, and hoisin sauce. Recommended restaurants include Da Dong (大董烤鸭) , Siji Minfu (四季民福烤鸭店) , Quanjude (全聚德烤鸭店) , and Bianyifang (便宜坊).
- Beijing Hot Pot (北京涮羊肉): A variant of hot pot featuring thinly sliced mutton cooked in a simple boiling broth, often served with various vegetables and dipping sauces. Popular restaurants include Dong Lai Shun (东来顺) , Ju Bao Yuan (聚宝源) , and Hai Di Lao (海底捞).
- Jiaozi (饺子) / Dumplings: A staple in Northern Chinese cuisine, dumplings come in various fillings and cooking methods (boiled, steamed, fried). Consider trying Baoyuan Dumpling Restaurant (宝源饺子屋) , Mr. Shi’s Dumplings (老石水饺) , and Xian Lao Man (馅老满).
- Zhajiangmian (炸酱面): Noodles topped with a savory soybean paste sauce, minced pork, and various vegetable garnishes. Try Old Beijing Zhajiang Noodle King (老北京炸酱面大王).
- Other local snacks: Don’t miss trying Jianbing (煎饼) (savory crepe) , Baozi (包子) (steamed buns with various fillings) , Tanghulu (糖葫芦) (candied fruit skewers) , Lǘdagun (驴打滚) (“rolling donkey” – sticky rice roll with sweet filling) , Erduoyan Zhagao (耳朵眼炸糕) (fried glutinous rice cakes), and Baodu (爆肚) (quick-fried tripe).
Food Streets
Explore Beijing’s vibrant food streets to sample a wide array of local snacks and dishes. Wangfujing Snack Street (王府井小吃街) is a popular tourist destination with a variety of snacks, including some more exotic options. Guijie (簋街), also known as Ghost Street, is famous for its late-night dining scene and spicy Sichuan cuisine, particularly crayfish. Qianmen Street (前门大街) offers a blend of traditional restaurants and snack shops. Nanluoguxiang (南锣鼓巷) in the hutong area is known for both traditional and innovative snacks. Niujie Muslim Snack Street (牛街) offers a variety of halal snacks and dishes popular with the Hui community.
| Food Name | Description | Recommended Restaurants/Food Streets |
| Peking Duck | Thin, crispy-skinned roasted duck served with pancakes and condiments | Da Dong, Siji Minfu, Quanjude, Bianyifang |
| Beijing Hot Pot | Thinly sliced mutton cooked in a clear broth | Dong Lai Shun, Ju Bao Yuan, Hai Di Lao |
| Jiaozi/Dumplings | Boiled, steamed, or fried dumplings with various fillings | Baoyuan Dumpling Restaurant, Mr. Shi’s Dumplings, Xian Lao Man |
| Zhajiangmian | Noodles with savory soybean paste sauce and vegetable toppings | Old Beijing Zhajiang Noodle King |
| Jianbing | Savory crepe filled with egg, crispy crackers, and sauce | Street vendors, Nanluoguxiang |
| Baozi | Steamed buns with various savory or sweet fillings | Liu Quan Ju, street vendors |
| Tanghulu | Candied hawthorn berries (and other fruits) on a stick | Wangfujing Snack Street, street vendors |
| Lǘdagun | Sticky rice roll with sweet red bean or peanut filling | Daoxiangcun (pastry shop), street vendors |
| Baodu | Quick-fried lamb or beef tripe served with dipping sauces | Guijie (Ghost Street), Niujie Muslim Snack Street |
| Erduoyan Zhagao | Fried glutinous rice cakes with sweet fillings | Erduoyan Zhagao Restaurant (Tianjin, but sometimes found in Beijing snack streets) |
| Various Snacks | Wide variety of local treats like tea soup, grilled skewers, Beijing yogurt | Wangfujing Snack Street, Qianmen Street, Nanluoguxiang, Niujie Muslim Snack Street, Guijie Street |
Also read: Beijing Food Tour: The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide for 2025
Staying Safe and Respectful:
Beijing is generally a safe city for tourists, but it’s always wise to be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas. Be cautious of scams, such as the “tea house scam,” where friendly strangers may lure you to establishments with exorbitant prices. When using taxis, opt for licensed ones or reputable ride-sharing apps like Didi. Be aware of the busy traffic, especially electric bikes on sidewalks. Security checks are common at subway stations and major attractions. In case of emergency, the police can be reached at 110, the ambulance at 120 or 999, and the fire department at 119.
Respecting local customs will enhance your experience. When greeting people, a nod or slight bow is common, and handshakes are generally accepted. When offering or receiving a gift, use both hands as a sign of respect. In dining settings, it’s polite to let elders begin eating first and to try every dish offered. Be mindful of chopstick etiquette, avoiding sticking them upright in a bowl of rice. In public spaces, maintain a modest and respectful demeanor, avoiding loud conversations or excessive displays of affection. Showing respect for elders is highly valued in Chinese culture.
Connectivity and Currency:
Internet access in China is subject to restrictions known as the “Great Firewall,” which blocks many popular international websites and apps. To access these services, using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is recommended. Another option is to use an eSIM, which can provide access to international networks without the need for a VPN in some cases. Alternatively, you can purchase a local SIM card upon arrival. It’s advisable to download essential apps like Alipay, WeChat, translation apps, and maps before your trip.
The local currency in Beijing is the Renminbi (RMB), also known as Yuan (CNY). You can exchange currency at Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) and Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX) , as well as at banks and authorized currency exchange offices throughout the city. Credit cards are not widely accepted, especially in smaller establishments, so it’s wise to carry some cash. Mobile payment through Alipay and WeChat Pay is extremely prevalent in Beijing, even for small transactions. Tipping is generally not customary in mainland China, although it may be accepted in high-end hotels and restaurants catering to Western travelers or for exceptional service.
Beyond the City: Exciting Day Trip Options
While your 4-day itinerary focuses on Beijing itself, consider extending your exploration with a day trip to the surrounding areas. The Great Wall remains a primary draw, and beyond Mutianyu, you could explore the Jinshanling (金山岭) section, known for its breathtaking vistas and less crowded trails. As mentioned earlier, the Ming Tombs can be combined with a Great Wall visit for a historical journey. For a different experience, consider a day trip to Gubei Water Town (古北水镇), a picturesque resort town with traditional northern Chinese architecture located at the foot of the Simatai Great Wall (司马台长城). You can even enjoy a night visit to the illuminated Simatai Great Wall for a truly enchanting experience.
Planning Your Trip: Best Time to Visit Beijing
The most favorable times to visit Beijing are during the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) seasons. During these months, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, with comfortable temperatures and clear skies, making it ideal for sightseeing. Additionally, these periods generally see fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months. Be aware that summer (June to August) in Beijing can be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 85 degrees Fahrenheit (30 degrees Celsius), and it is also the wettest season. Winter (November to March) brings cold and dry conditions, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It is also advisable to avoid traveling during major Chinese public holidays, such as Chinese New Year and National Day (October 1st to 7th), as these periods experience significant domestic travel, leading to large crowds and higher prices.
Final Words
Beijing offers an unparalleled travel experience, a journey through millennia of history and a glimpse into a vibrant modern future. From the imperial grandeur of the Forbidden City and the majestic sweep of the Great Wall to the tranquil beauty of the Temple of Heaven and the charming allure of the hutongs, this 4-day guide provides a foundation for an unforgettable adventure. By equipping yourself with essential information on transportation, accommodation, dining, and local customs, you can confidently navigate this extraordinary city and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Chinese culture. Embrace the wonders that await you in Beijing, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
