10 Days in Beijing: History and Cuisine Itinerary

Begin your morning at Jingshan Park (Jingshan Gongyuan), located just north of the Forbidden City. Climb to the top of Jingshan Hill for panoramic views of Beijing. Afterward, have breakfast at a nearby café.

Spend your afternoon exploring the artistic side of Beijing at the 798 Art District. This area is filled with contemporary art galleries, shops, and cafes. For lunch, stop by one of the trendy eateries within the district.

In the evening, head over to TRB Hutong for an elegant dining experience featuring European cuisine with an Asian twist. After dinner, consider attending The Legend of Kung Fu Show for an entertaining performance that showcases traditional martial arts.

Start your day with a visit to Lama Temple (Yonghegong), one of Beijing's most important Tibetan Buddhist temples. The intricate architecture and serene atmosphere make it a perfect morning activity.

After exploring Lama Temple, head over to Confucius Temple, which is nearby. This temple offers insight into Confucian philosophy and Chinese culture. For lunch, dine at King's Joy, known for its vegetarian cuisine that emphasizes organic ingredients.

In the evening, visit the impressive CCTV Headquarters, an architectural marvel designed by Rem Koolhaas. Enjoy dinner at Haidilao Hot Pot (Wangfujing), where you can experience one of China's most popular dining traditions—hot pot.

Dedicate this day to exploring one of China's most iconic landmarks—the Great Wall. Opt for a tour like Beijing Mutianyu Great Wall+Summer Palace or TempleofHeaven. The Mutianyu section is less crowded and offers stunning views.

Start your day with a visit to Temple of Heaven (Tiantan). This complex of religious buildings is a masterpiece of architecture and landscape design, offering a glimpse into the spiritual life of ancient China. Enjoy a peaceful morning walk through its expansive grounds.

After exploring the Temple of Heaven, head to National Museum of China (NAMOC). This museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts that span China's long history. For lunch, dine at Din Tai Fung (Yuyang), known for its delicious dumplings and other Taiwanese specialties.

In the evening, take a stroll through the historic Beijing's Old Hutongs A Self-Guided Audio Tour. These narrow alleys offer a glimpse into traditional Beijing life. End your day with dinner at Black Sesame Kitchen, where you can enjoy an intimate dining experience with a focus on Chinese cuisine.

Begin your day with a visit to the magnificent Summer Palace (Yiheyuan). This sprawling imperial garden is perfect for a leisurely morning walk. Don't miss the Marble Boat and Longevity Hill for stunning views.

After exploring the Summer Palace, head to Beihai Park (Beihai Gongyuan), one of Beijing's oldest and most well-preserved imperial gardens. For lunch, enjoy a meal at Li Qun Roast Duck Restaurant, famous for its traditional Peking duck served in an authentic setting.

In the evening, explore the vibrant area around Back Lakes (Hou Hai). This area is known for its lively nightlife and scenic lakeside views. Have dinner at The Georg, which offers contemporary European cuisine in a stylish setting.

Start your day with a visit to Tiananmen (Gate of Heavenly Peace), an iconic symbol of China's history. Then proceed to explore the nearby Monument to the People’s Heroes and pay homage to those who contributed to China's revolutionary history.

Spend your afternoon at the impressive Great Hall of the People, which serves as China's parliament building. For lunch, dine at Jing Yaa Tang, known for its exquisite dim sum and Peking duck.

In the evening, visit the stunning architectural marvel that is the National Center for the Performing Arts (NCPA). If possible, catch a performance here. End your day with dinner at Capital M, which offers fantastic views over Tiananmen Square along with delicious international cuisine.

Begin your morning by visiting the historic Drum Tower (Gulou) and nearby Bell Tower. These ancient structures offer panoramic views over Beijing from their top floors.

Afterward, explore more traditional architecture by visiting Shichahai, an area known for its historical significance and beautiful scenery. For lunch, stop by Xian Lao Man (AnDingMen), famous for its handmade dumplings.

In the evening, take part in an authentic cultural experience by attending a Chinese tea ceremony in one of Beijing's hutong courtyards like in this tour:  Chinese Tea ceremony in Beijing Hutong courtyard. Conclude your day with dinner at  Lost Heaven Beijing, which offers Yunnan-inspired dishes in an elegant setting.

Start your day with a visit to Beijing National Stadium, also known as the Bird's Nest. This iconic structure was built for the 2008 Olympics and is a marvel of modern architecture. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café.

In the afternoon, explore the 798 Art District if you haven't already. This area is filled with contemporary art galleries, shops, and cafes. For lunch, dine at BeiJing Dadong Roast Duck (JinBao Hui), known for its innovative approach to traditional Peking duck.

In the evening, head over to Beijing Olympic Park. The park is beautifully illuminated at night and offers a serene environment for an evening stroll. End your day with dinner at Duck de Chine, which offers an upscale dining experience featuring Peking duck.

Begin your last day in Beijing with a visit to Treasure Gallery within the Forbidden City complex. This gallery houses some of the most precious artifacts from China's imperial history. Enjoy breakfast at a nearby café.

Spend your afternoon exploring more of Beijing's cultural heritage by visiting St. Joseph's Church. This historic church offers a unique glimpse into Beijing's diverse architectural styles. For lunch, dine at Haidilao Hot Pot (Wangfujing), where you can enjoy one of China's most popular dining traditions—hot pot.

Conclude your trip with an evening visit to Back Lakes (Hou Hai) if you haven't already experienced it during your stay. The area is lively and offers various dining options along the lakeside. Have dinner at The Georg, which provides contemporary European cuisine in a stylish setting.