8 day itinerary for Beijing

Itinerary

Beijing is a fantastic city with a rich history, vibrant culture, and plenty of family-friendly activities. Here’s a fun and engaging 8-day itinerary that balances sightseeing, cultural experiences, and relaxation, perfect for your family!

## Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Wangfujing

Morning: Arrive in Beijing! After settling into your hotel, take a moment to relax and refresh.

Afternoon: Head to Wangfujing Street, one of Beijing’s most famous shopping streets. It’s pedestrian-friendly, making it easy for your mom to stroll around. You can explore shops, and if you’re feeling adventurous, try some local street food like candied fruit or dumplings!

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a family-friendly restaurant nearby. Consider trying Peking Duck at a well-known place like Quanjude or Da Dong.

## Day 2: The Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square

Morning: Start your day at Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world. It’s a great spot for photos and to soak in the atmosphere.

Afternoon: Visit the Forbidden City. It’s vast, so consider renting an audio guide or joining a family-friendly tour to keep everyone engaged. The architecture and history are fascinating!

Evening: Have dinner in the Hutong area, where you can find cozy restaurants. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the narrow alleys and enjoy the local vibe.

## Day 3: The Great Wall of China

Morning: Take a day trip to the Great Wall. The Mutianyu section is family-friendly and has a cable car, which is perfect for your mom. The views are breathtaking!

Afternoon: Spend some time walking along the wall. There are plenty of spots to take photos and enjoy the scenery.

Evening: Return to Beijing and have a relaxed dinner at your hotel or a nearby restaurant.

## Day 4: Summer Palace and Beijing Zoo

Morning: Visit the Summer Palace. The gardens and lakes are beautiful, and you can take a boat ride on Kunming Lake. It’s a lovely place for a leisurely stroll.

Afternoon: Head to the Beijing Zoo to see the famous giant pandas! Your 12-year-old will love it, and it’s a nice way to spend the afternoon.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a restaurant that serves hot pot. It’s interactive and fun for the whole family!

## Day 5: Temple of Heaven and Cultural Experience

Morning: Visit the Temple of Heaven, where you can see locals practicing tai chi. The park is beautiful and a great place for a morning walk.

Afternoon: Consider a cultural experience like a Chinese calligraphy class or a cooking class. It’s a fun way to learn something new together!

Evening: Have dinner at a restaurant that offers a variety of dishes, so everyone can find something they like.

## Day 6: Day Trip to Chengde

Morning: Take a day trip to Chengde, about 2.5 hours from Beijing. Visit the Mountain Resort, a UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful gardens and palaces.

Afternoon: Explore the Eight Outer Temples. The scenery is stunning, and it’s a nice change of pace from the city.

Evening: Return to Beijing and have a relaxed dinner at your hotel or a nearby eatery.

## Day 7: 798 Art District and Shopping

Morning: Visit the 798 Art District, a trendy area filled with contemporary art galleries and installations. It’s a great place to explore and take photos.

Afternoon: Head to Sanlitun for some shopping. There are plenty of family-friendly shops and cafes to enjoy.

Evening: Have dinner at a restaurant with a view, perhaps at a rooftop place where you can see the city skyline.

## Day 8: Departure

Morning: Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance for a leisurely breakfast and a final stroll around the neighborhood or a visit to a local market for some last-minute souvenirs.

Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.

Tips:

• Make sure to check the weather and dress accordingly, as Beijing can have varying temperatures.
• Consider using a mix of public transport and taxis for convenience, especially for your mom.
• Always have some snacks and water on hand, especially for your 12-year-old!

I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in Beijing! Enjoy your trip! 🌏✈️