Beijing, China 9-Day Itinerary with Adjacent Cities Itinerary

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the Mutianyu Great Wall. Spend your morning walking along this marvel of ancient engineering and taking in the breathtaking views. Refuel with a hearty breakfast at the Mutianyu Great Wall Bus Group Tour [60584] meeting point.

After descending from the Great Wall, enjoy a peaceful afternoon at the Summer Palace (Yiheyuan). Explore the beautiful gardens, pavilions, and the tranquil Kunming Lake. For a snack, visit Nanluoguxiang Snack Street to sample a variety of local delicacies.

Dine at Jing Yaa Tang, which offers a modern twist on traditional Northern Chinese cuisine. After dinner, take a relaxing stroll through Jingshan Park (Jingshan Gongyuan) to enjoy panoramic views of the Forbidden City and the city skyline.

Immerse yourself in Beijing's traditional alleys, or hutongs, with a rickshaw tour. Visit the ancient courtyard homes and experience the old Beijing way of life. For breakfast, enjoy the ambiance and flavors of TRB Hutong, known for its fusion of Chinese and Western cuisine.

Explore the Beijing National Stadium, also known as the Bird's Nest, and the Beijing National Aquatics Center, or the Water Cube, both iconic structures from the 2008 Olympics. For lunch, savor the flavors of traditional Beijing cuisine at Dali Courtyard.

In the evening, enjoy a traditional Chinese tea ceremony at Lao She Teahouse. Follow this with a visit to the Red Theater Beijing Acrobatic Show With Transfer (Option) for a mesmerizing display of acrobatic skills.

Start your day with a visit to the 798 Art Zone (Dashanzi Art District), an area known for its contemporary art galleries and unique exhibitions. Enjoy a morning coffee at the artistic Black Sesame Kitchen and explore the works of local and international artists.

After a creative morning, continue your cultural journey at the National Museum of China (NAMOC), where you can immerse yourself in the rich history and diverse cultures of China. For lunch, indulge in the vegetarian delights of King's Joy Vegetarian Restaurant.

As the day winds down, take a leisurely walk through the Meridian Gate (Wumen) of the Forbidden City and enjoy the sunset at Jingshan Park (Jingshan Gongyuan). For dinner, experience the innovative Chinese cuisine at Green T. House Living.

Explore the Ming Tombs (Ming Shisan Ling), the final resting place of 13 Ming Dynasty emperors. Marvel at the grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage site. For breakfast, enjoy the delicious dumplings at Mr. Shi's Dumplings.

Return to the city and spend your afternoon at the Silk Market (Yabaolu), where you can shop for a wide range of silk products, clothing, and accessories. For lunch, try the contemporary Chinese cuisine at Made in China.

As the day turns to evening, visit the Beijing Ancient Architecture Museum (Gugong Bowuyuan) to gain insights into traditional Chinese architecture. Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at Din Tai Fung, known for its exquisite Taiwanese cuisine and world-famous dumplings.

Customize your day with a visit to the destination of your choice, whether it be a historical site, a cultural landmark, or a hidden gem in Beijing. Enjoy breakfast at Baoyuan Jiaozi Wu (Baoyuan Dumpling House) and set off on your personalized adventure.

For lunch, indulge in the flavors of Sichuan cuisine at Siji Minfu Roast Duck Restaurant. Afterward, continue your exploration of Beijing, visiting sites or engaging in activities that align with your interests.

Dine at Lost Heaven, where the ambiance and menu are inspired by the ancient Tea Horse Road. Savor a blend of Yunnan and Western flavors before taking a leisurely walk to reflect on the day's discoveries.

Begin with a visit to the Great Wall from Jinshanling to Simatai, where you can enjoy a picturesque hike along a less crowded section of the wall. Take in the stunning views and have breakfast at the Gubei Water Town [27254] with its charming ambiance and local specialties.

Return to the city and spend your afternoon at the Imperial Garden of the Palace Museum, also known as the Forbidden City. Explore the well-preserved imperial garden and the surrounding palace complex. For a light snack, visit Hatsune Japanese Restaurant & Bar for some of the best sushi in Beijing.

As the day winds down, take a serene walk around the Lama Temple (Yonghegong), one of the largest and most important Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in the world. Enjoy a peaceful dinner at Haidilao Hot Pot, a popular spot known for its interactive dining experience.

Start your day with a visit to the Bund (Wai Tan), Shanghai's most famous waterfront area. Enjoy the morning breeze as you take a stroll and admire the mix of architectural styles. For breakfast, indulge in the world-renowned soup dumplings at Din Tai Fung.

Spend your afternoon exploring the Yu Garden (Yuyuan) and the adjacent bazaar, where you can find traditional Chinese products and souvenirs. For lunch, savor the flavors of local Shanghainese cuisine at Jia Jia Tang Bao (Huanghe Road).

As the sun sets, experience the modern side of Shanghai with a visit to the Oriental Pearl Tower (Dongfang Mingzhu). Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck. Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet, an avant-garde dining experience that engages all your senses.

Take a day trip to the nearby city of Suzhou, known for its classical gardens and traditional silk production. Visit the Humble Administrator's Garden (Zhuozheng Yuan) and the Suzhou Museum to immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture. Enjoy a traditional Suzhou-style lunch by the serene canals.

Explore the ancient water towns of Tongli Water Town or Zhouzhuang Water Town, where you can wander through narrow alleys, cross stone-arched bridges, and experience the timeless charm of these historic settlements. Return to Shanghai in the evening for a farewell dinner at Mr & Mrs Bund - Modern Eatery by Paul Pairet, known for its innovative European cuisine and stunning views of the Bund.