7 Days Exploring Beijing's Wonders Itinerary

Begin your second day with a visit to Temple of Heaven (Tiantan), an architectural masterpiece where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties would perform ceremonial rites. This UNESCO World Heritage site is surrounded by beautiful gardens perfect for a morning stroll. Afterward, grab breakfast at Café Zarah, known for its delicious coffee and pastries.

In the afternoon, join Beijing: Temple of Heaven and Forbidden City Private Tour. This tour will provide deeper insights into both historical sites. Following this enriching experience, have lunch at Dali Courtyard, which offers authentic Yunnan cuisine in a charming courtyard setting.

For your evening activity, head over to 798 Art District, Beijing’s avant-garde art hub filled with galleries, studios, boutiques, and cafes housed in repurposed factory buildings. For dinner, dine at TRB Hutong, an elegant restaurant offering contemporary European cuisine within a traditional Chinese courtyard.

Kick off your third day with a visit to Summer Palace (Yiheyuan), another UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning lakeside views and classical Chinese architecture. Spend your morning exploring its gardens, pavilions, bridges, and temples before heading for brunch at The Orchard, which offers organic farm-to-table dishes.

In the afternoon, embark on an adventure with Beijing: Mutianyu Great Wall+Ming Tomb+Sacred Way. This tour will take you to one of the best-preserved sections of the Great Wall at Mutianyu as well as exploring Ming Tombs along Sacred Way—a path lined with statues leading up to these ancient mausoleums.

Conclude your day by visiting Wangfujing Street (Wangfujing Dajie), one of Beijing’s most famous shopping streets where you can find everything from luxury brands to street food vendors selling local delicacies like candied hawthorn sticks or scorpions on skewers! Enjoy dinner at R-Siji Minfu Roast Duck Restaurant before heading back to your accommodation.

Start your fourth day with a visit to Lama Temple (Yonghegong), one of the most important Tibetan Buddhist temples outside Tibet. The temple is renowned for its stunning architecture and the impressive 18-meter tall statue of Maitreya Buddha carved from a single piece of sandalwood. Enjoy a peaceful morning exploring the temple grounds and soaking in the spiritual atmosphere. For breakfast, stop by Moka Bros, known for its healthy and delicious breakfast options.

In the afternoon, take part in Beijing: Hutong Private Culinary Walking Tour. This tour will take you through Beijing’s historic hutongs—narrow alleys lined with traditional courtyard residences. You’ll get to sample a variety of local delicacies while learning about the history and culture of these unique neighborhoods. For lunch, enjoy some of the best street food Beijing has to offer during the tour.

As evening falls, head over to National Center for the Performing Arts (NCPA), also known as The Egg due to its distinctive dome-shaped architecture. Catch a performance or simply admire the building’s stunning design. For dinner, dine at Da Dong Roast Duck, famous for its Peking duck.

Begin your fifth day with a visit to Drum Tower (Gulou) and Bell Tower, two ancient structures that once served as timekeeping centers for the city. Climb to the top for panoramic views of Beijing’s old city. Afterward, enjoy breakfast at Toast at The Orchid, known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious breakfast menu.

In the afternoon, join Beijing: Great Wall Jinshanling Section Guided Group Hike. This tour will take you to one of the most scenic sections of the Great Wall at Jinshanling, where you can hike along well-preserved watchtowers and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. For lunch, pack a picnic or grab something from local vendors along the way.

Conclude your day with a visit to CCTV Headquarters, an architectural marvel designed by renowned architect Rem Koolhaas. Admire its unique design before heading to dinner at The Georg, an upscale restaurant offering contemporary European cuisine in a stylish setting.

Start your sixth day with a visit to Confucius Temple, dedicated to Confucius, one of China’s most influential philosophers. Explore its tranquil courtyards and halls adorned with ancient inscriptions before heading over to nearby Guozijian Street for breakfast at Wudaoying Hutong Café, known for its charming ambiance and tasty offerings.

In the afternoon, embark on Beijing: Longqing Gorge, Ming Tombs & Lunch Private Day Tour. This tour will take you on a scenic journey through Longqing Gorge where you can enjoy boat rides amidst towering cliffs followed by an exploration of Ming Tombs—final resting places for many emperors from Ming Dynasty—and savoring local cuisine during lunch break.

Wrap up your day by visiting Shichahai area (Shichahai), famous lake district offering beautiful evening views perfect place unwind after long day sightseeing! Enjoy dinner R-Huajia Yiyuan Restaurant traditional courtyard setting serving delicious Chinese dishes.

Begin your final day in Beijing with a visit to Beihai Park (Beihai Gongyuan), one of the oldest and most well-preserved imperial gardens in China. Stroll around the beautiful lake, visit the White Dagoba, and enjoy the serene atmosphere. For breakfast, stop by Serk Café, known for its great coffee and cycling-themed decor.

In the afternoon, join Beijing: Forbidden City and Royal Treasure Museum Tour. This tour will take you back to the Forbidden City where you can explore areas you might have missed earlier in your trip. The Royal Treasure Museum houses an impressive collection of imperial artifacts that provide deeper insights into China's rich history. For lunch, dine at Capital M, offering stunning views of Tiananmen Square and a delicious menu featuring both Western and Chinese dishes.

Conclude your trip with a visit to Jingshan Park (Jingshan Gongyuan), located just north of the Forbidden City. Climb to the top of Jingshan Hill for a panoramic view of Beijing’s skyline as the sun sets. For dinner, enjoy a meal at Black Sesame Kitchen, a hidden gem offering an intimate dining experience with a focus on traditional Chinese cuisine.