Eat Well

Peking Duck

Crispy skin, tender meat, wrapped in thin pancakes.

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A must-try classic of Beijing’s rich culinary heritage.

Hand-Pulled Noodles

Fresh noodles served in savory broths or stir-fried.

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Dumplings

Steamed or fried, filled with meat or vegetables.

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Street Snacks

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Try candied fruits, skewers, and savory pancakes.

Local Flavors

Northern spices and hearty dishes warm the soul.

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Foreigner Friendly

Many spots offer English menus and welcoming staff.

Stay Well

Wangfujing and Dongcheng welcome first-timers with classic charm and easy access to Beijing’s heart.

Best Areas for International Visitors

• Dongcheng / Wangfujing:
  Ideal for first-time visitors, close to major landmarks and shopping.

• Sanlitun:
  Modern area with restaurants, nightlife, and international hotels.

• Houhai & Shichahai:
  Traditional neighborhoods with boutique hotels and historic charm.

Accommodation options range from luxury international hotels to charming courtyard-style guesthouses.

Hours

24/7 open

Culture & History

Beijing, once the heart of dynasties, holds palaces, temples, and hutongs that tell stories of ancient life and community.

For centuries, Beijing was the capital of multiple dynasties.

• Home to grand palaces, temples, and ancient city planning.

• Deep-rooted traditions still visible in daily life.

• Hutong neighborhoods offer insight into local customs and community culture.

Shopping & Local Life

Explore bustling Wangfujing and trendy Sanlitun, vibrant markets brimming with tea and crafts, plus lively parks and street food scenes.

• Shopping Streets:
  Wangfujing, Sanlitun, and modern shopping centers.

• Traditional Souvenirs:
  Calligraphy, tea, handicrafts, and cultural items.

• Local Life:
  Morning parks, evening street food, and neighborhood markets offer authentic glimpses into daily life.

Travel Tips

How to handle language?

Learn basic Mandarin phrases and use translation apps for smoother communication.

Can I use mobile payments?

Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are common, but setting them up may require a local bank account.

Should I carry cash?

Yes, carrying some cash is wise for small vendors or places that don’t accept mobile payments.

How to get internet access?

Buy a local SIM or eSIM for reliable internet and easier navigation around the city.

Is China safe for tourists?

Generally yes, but stay aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.

Any general safety tips for first-timers?

Avoid isolated areas at night, use official taxis, and keep emergency contacts handy.

How Many Days in Beijing?

Spend 2–3 days to see Beijing’s major highlights or 4–5 days to dive deeper into its rich culture and history.

• 2–3 Days: Major highlights and cultural landmarks

• 4–5 Days: In-depth exploration with local experiences

• Combine With: Xi’an, Shanghai, or Chengdu for a multi-city journey

🗓️ 2–3 Days in Beijing

Classic Highlights & Local Life Experience

A perfect introduction to Beijing, combining imperial landmarks, cultural heritage, and authentic local experiences. Ideal for first-time visitors.

📍 Day 1｜Imperial Beijing & Historic Center

Route: Tiananmen → Forbidden City → Jingshan Park → Hutongs

• Visit the heart of imperial China and explore ancient palace architecture

• Walk through historic courtyards and traditional neighborhoods

• Enjoy panoramic city views from a classic hilltop park

• Evening stroll in hutong areas to experience local daily life

Highlights: History, architecture, traditional culture

📍 Day 2｜The Great Wall & Local Cuisine

Route: Great Wall (Mutianyu or Badaling) → Beijing Roast Duck Dinner

• Travel outside the city to visit one of the world’s most iconic landmarks

• Walk along the Great Wall and enjoy mountain scenery

• Return to the city for a classic Peking Duck dinner

• Relaxed evening after a day of exploration

Highlights: World heritage, nature, iconic experiences

📍 Day 3 (Optional)｜Culture, Parks & Modern Beijing

Route: Temple of Heaven → Local Park → Sanlitun or Wangfujing

• Morning visit to a historic temple complex

• Observe locals practicing tai chi, dancing, or music in public parks

• Explore modern shopping and lifestyle districts

• Free time for shopping or cultural activities

Highlights: Local life, culture, modern city contrast

⏱️ Trip Duration Options

• 2 Days: Day 1 + Day 2 (Classic highlights)

• 3 Days: Add Day 3 for a slower, more immersive experience

🧭 Travel Style

• Flexible pace, suitable for private or small-group travel

• Can be customized based on interests, mobility, and schedule

• Easy to combine with other cities like Xi’an or Shanghai

🗓️ 4–5 Days in Beijing

Imperial Heritage, Local Life & Hidden Corners

A deeper journey into Beijing’s history, culture, and everyday life. Perfect for travelers who want more than just highlights.

📍 Day 1｜Imperial Core of Beijing

Route: Tiananmen Square → Forbidden City → Jingshan Park → Hutongs (Houhai)

• Explore the political and ceremonial heart of China

• Walk through the Forbidden City and learn about imperial life

• Enjoy panoramic views over the old city from Jingshan Park

• Evening stroll through hutongs, bars, and lakeside streets

Focus: History · Architecture · Traditional neighborhoods

📍 Day 2｜The Great Wall & Northern Countryside

Route: Mutianyu Great Wall → Countryside Lunch → Return to City

• Visit a less-crowded, well-preserved section of the Great Wall

• Walk along the wall with mountain views

• Enjoy a relaxed countryside lunch

• Return to Beijing for a free evening or optional show

Focus: World heritage · Nature · Iconic experience

📍 Day 3｜Temples, Parks & Local Life

Route: Temple of Heaven → Local Park → Lama Temple → Yonghegong Area

• Visit the Temple of Heaven, a masterpiece of ancient architecture

• Observe locals practicing tai chi, dancing, and music in parks

• Explore the Lama Temple and experience spiritual culture

• Wander through nearby streets and cafés

Focus: Culture · Religion · Everyday Beijing

📍 Day 4｜Art, Modern Beijing & Food Culture

Route: 798 Art District → Sanlitun → Peking Duck Dinner

• Explore Beijing’s contemporary art scene in 798

• Discover modern shopping, cafés, and lifestyle districts

• Enjoy a classic Peking Duck dinner

• Evening free time in modern Beijing

Focus: Modern culture · Art · Cuisine

📍 Day 5 (Optional)｜Hidden Beijing or Side Trip

Route Options:

• Summer Palace (gardens & lakes)

• Ming Tombs

• Local markets & traditional crafts

• Cooking class or cultural workshop

A flexible day to slow down, revisit favorites, or explore deeper based on interests.

Focus: Personalization · Relaxed exploration

⏱️ Trip Duration Options

• 4 Days: Day 1–4 (balanced depth & highlights)

• 5 Days: Add Day 5 for a relaxed and personalized experience

🧭 Travel Style

• Ideal for private or small-group travel

• Comfortable pace with cultural depth

• Easy to customize for interests, age, and mobility

• Perfect to combine with Xi’an, Shanghai, or Chengdu

Getting There

Beijing welcomes travelers via Capital and Daxing airports, plus high-speed trains from major cities.

• International Access:
  Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) and Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX) connect the city with major global destinations.

• High-Speed Rail:
  Excellent rail connections to Shanghai, Xi’an, Chengdu, and other major cities.

• Getting Around the City:
  Beijing’s metro system is extensive, affordable, and tourist-friendly. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are widely available.

• Travel Style:
  Suitable for both guided tours and independent travelers.

Your Beijing, Your Way

Tailor your journey with tours, custom trips, or multi-city adventures.

Rated 5 stars

★★★★★