Beijing Travel Guide 5-Day Self-Guided Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of the Forbidden City

Upon arrival in Beijing, check into your hotel and take some time to rest. In the afternoon, head to the Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest ancient palace complex in the world. Spend the day exploring its vast courtyards, halls, and museums. End your day with a stroll through Tiananmen Square, the largest city square in the world.

Day 2: Great Wall of China and Ming Tombs

Start your day early with a visit to the Great Wall of China, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Choose a section such as Badaling or Mutianyu for a hike. Afterward, visit the Ming Tombs, the final resting place of 13 emperors of the Ming Dynasty. Return to the city in the evening and relax.

Day 3: Temple of Heaven and Summer Palace

Begin your day with a visit to the Temple of Heaven, a complex of religious buildings where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties would perform annual ceremonies of prayer for good harvest. In the afternoon, head to the Summer Palace, a vast ensemble of lakes, gardens, and palaces. Take a boat ride on the Kunming Lake for a scenic view.

Day 4: Hutong Tour and Lama Temple

Spend your morning exploring the traditional Hutongs, the narrow alleys formed by lines of Siheyuan (a compound with houses around a courtyard). Experience the local culture and visit a traditional tea house. In the afternoon, visit the Lama Temple, one of the most important Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in the world.

Day 5: Olympic Park and Departure

On your last day, visit the Olympic Park, home to the iconic Bird's Nest Stadium and Water Cube. Take some time to explore the park and enjoy the modern architecture. In the afternoon, head back to your hotel, pack up, and prepare for your departure. If time permits, do some last-minute shopping or visit a local market.