11 Days Exploring Beijing and Harbin Itinerary

Begin your second day with an early morning departure for a tour of the Great Wall. Opt for the Beijing: Mutianyu Great Wall+Ming Tomb+Sacred Way tour which includes visits to both the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall and the Ming Tombs. The Mutianyu section is less crowded and offers stunning views.

After exploring the Great Wall, visit the Ming Tombs where you can learn about China's imperial history. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant near Mutianyu; try Xin Shuang Quan Restaurant for some local delicacies.

Return to Beijing in the evening and relax at your hotel or explore Wangfujing Street for some shopping and street food delights. For dinner, head to Siji Minfu Roast Duck Restaurant, another great spot for Peking duck.

Start your third day with a visit to Temple of Heaven (Tiantan), another UNESCO World Heritage Site where emperors once prayed for good harvests. The temple complex is an architectural masterpiece set in beautiful gardens.

In the afternoon, take part in a guided tour of Beijing's hutongs with Beijing hutongs eBike tour. These narrow alleys offer a glimpse into traditional Beijing life. Stop by a local café like Café Zarah for lunch before continuing your exploration.

End your day with a visit to Lama Temple (Yonghegong), one of Beijing's most important Tibetan Buddhist temples. For dinner, enjoy some Sichuan cuisine at Haidilao Hot Pot, famous for its spicy hot pot dishes.

Begin your day with a visit to the 798 Art District. This contemporary art zone is housed in a former factory complex and features galleries, studios, and cafes. It's a great place to explore modern Chinese art and culture. For breakfast, stop by Ultra Violet by Paul Pairet, known for its creative dishes.

In the afternoon, head over to the National Museum of China (NAMOC). This museum offers an extensive collection of Chinese artifacts and artworks spanning thousands of years. Enjoy lunch at Made in China, which offers a modern take on traditional Chinese cuisine.

Conclude your day with a visit to the CCTV Headquarters, an architectural marvel designed by Rem Koolhaas. For dinner, dine at The Georg, which offers a fusion of Nordic and Chinese cuisine.

Start your day with a visit to the Great Hall of the People, located on the western edge of Tiananmen Square. This building serves as the meeting place for China's legislative bodies. Afterward, head over to Monument to the People’s Heroes for some historical insights.

In the afternoon, take part in the Beijing: Forbidden City and Royal Treasure Museum Tour. This tour will give you an in-depth look at some of China's most valuable treasures housed within the Forbidden City. For lunch, try Jing Yaa Tang, known for its Peking duck and dim sum.

End your day with a relaxing stroll through Beihai Park (Beihai Gongyuan), one of Beijing's oldest imperial gardens. For dinner, enjoy some Cantonese cuisine at Huajia Yiyuan Restaurant.

Begin your day with a visit to the beautiful Summer Palace (Yiheyuan). This expansive park features lakes, gardens, and palaces that were once used as a summer retreat by Chinese emperors. Take part in the guided tour: Summer Palace Walking Tour for an enriching experience.

After exploring the Summer Palace, head over to Jingshan Park (Jingshan Gongyuan) for panoramic views of Beijing from its hilltop pagoda. Enjoy lunch at Buona Bocca, which offers Italian cuisine with great views.

Conclude your day with a visit to the iconic Beijing National Stadium, also known as the Bird's Nest. For dinner, dine at Dong Lai Shun Restaurant, famous for its Mongolian hot pot.

Start your day with a visit to the Confucius Temple. This temple is dedicated to Confucius, the great Chinese philosopher, and offers a peaceful atmosphere for reflection. Afterward, head over to St. Joseph's Church, one of the oldest Catholic churches in Beijing, showcasing beautiful Gothic architecture.

In the afternoon, take part in the Beijing: Temple of Heaven and Forbidden City Private Tour. This tour will provide you with an in-depth understanding of these iconic landmarks. For lunch, try Capital M, known for its modern European cuisine and stunning views of Tiananmen Square.

Conclude your day with a relaxing evening at Shichahai, a historic scenic area consisting of three lakes. Enjoy a boat ride or simply stroll along the lakeside. For dinner, dine at Dali Courtyard, which offers Yunnan cuisine in a charming courtyard setting.

Begin your day with a visit to the impressive Drum Tower (Gulou). Climb to the top for panoramic views of Beijing and learn about its historical significance. Afterward, explore the nearby Bell Tower for more historical insights.

In the afternoon, join the Beijing: Hidden Gems Guided Food Tour with Beer and Tastings. This tour will take you through some lesser-known culinary spots in Beijing while offering delicious food and beer tastings. For lunch during the tour, you'll sample various local delicacies.

End your day with a visit to the futuristic National Center for the Performing Arts (NCPA). Attend a performance or simply admire its stunning architecture. For dinner, enjoy some fine dining at TRB Hutong, known for its exquisite French cuisine.

Start your day with a visit to Treasure Gallery within the Forbidden City. This gallery houses some of China's most precious artifacts and treasures. Afterward, head over to Nine Dragon Screen at the Palace Museum, an intricate glazed-tile mural that is truly mesmerizing.

In the afternoon, take part in an exciting hiking tour: Great Wall Jinshanling To Simatai West Hiking Private Tour. This section of the Great Wall is less crowded and offers breathtaking views as you hike along its ancient paths. Enjoy lunch during your hike; pack some snacks or have a meal at one of the local eateries near Jinshanling.

Return to Beijing in the evening and relax at your hotel or explore some local markets for souvenirs. For dinner, head to Baoyuan Dumplings, famous for its colorful dumplings filled with various delicious ingredients.

Start your day with a visit to the Harbin Ice and Snow World, one of the largest ice and snow festivals in the world. This winter wonderland features massive ice sculptures, ice slides, and various winter activities. It's a magical experience that captures the essence of Harbin's winter charm.

In the afternoon, head over to the Siberian Tiger Park. This park is home to a large population of Siberian tigers and offers a unique opportunity to see these majestic animals up close. Enjoy lunch at Harbin Lao Chang Spring Pancake, known for its delicious spring pancakes.

Conclude your day with a visit to Zhongyang Street (Central Street), a bustling pedestrian street lined with European-style buildings, shops, and restaurants. For dinner, dine at Huamei Western Restaurant, which offers a blend of Russian and Chinese cuisine.

Begin your day with a visit to St. Sophia Cathedral, an architectural gem that showcases Harbin's Russian influence. The cathedral now serves as an architectural art museum, offering insights into the city's history.

In the afternoon, explore Sun Island Scenic Area. This picturesque park is known for its beautiful landscapes and recreational activities. Take part in some winter sports or simply enjoy the serene surroundings. For lunch, try Lao Ding Feng, famous for its traditional Chinese dishes.

Beijing: Private Sightseeing Nighttime Tour with Transfer: Conclude your trip with this private nighttime tour that will take you through some of Beijing's most iconic landmarks beautifully illuminated at night. For dinner in Beijing before heading back home or continuing your journey elsewhere, dine at Black Sesame Kitchen, known for its intimate dining experience and delicious Chinese cuisine.