Quick answer
For a first visit to Beijing, plan about five days. Day one: Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City. From there, build in Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven, and leave time for the food.
A 5-day Beijing itinerary
- Day1
Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City.
- Day2
Great Wall day trip — Mutianyu or Badaling.
- Day3
Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace.
- Day4
Hutong bike tour, Houhai Lake.
- Day5
798 Art District, a farewell Peking duck dinner.
Where to eat in Beijing
- Breakfast
- Jianbing from a hutong street stall
- Lunch
- A hutong noodle shop
- Dinner
- Da Dong — famous for Peking duck
Top sights
- Great Wall of China
- Forbidden City
- Temple of Heaven
- Summer Palace
Shopping
- Wangfujing Street
- 798 Art District
- Silk Street Market
Beijing FAQ
How many days do you need in Beijing?
Five days covers Beijing's highlights at a comfortable pace — start with Great Wall of China and Forbidden City, then use the remaining days for neighborhoods, food and a day trip. Gigi adjusts the plan to your interests and how you like to travel.
What are the must-see sights in Beijing?
Well-known highlights include Great Wall of China, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace. Booking timed entries or a private guide for the busiest sights saves hours in lines.
Where should you shop in Beijing?
Popular shopping stops include Wangfujing Street, 798 Art District, Silk Street Market. Hours and seasonal closures vary, so confirm before you go.
General reference, not Gigi's personally vetted picks — a starting point built from well-known, long-standing places. Hours, prices and openings change; she'll confirm and personalize everything before you go.