4-Day Friends Getaway in Beijing: Nightlife and Shopping Guide

Beijing, China

4 days

Temple complex Yonghegong - Lama temple, Tibetan Buddhist monastery
Panoramic view
The Great Wall
Beijing opera
The ancient royal palaces of the Forbidden City

About Beijing, China

Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Beijing, China's capital city. Marvel at iconic landmarks like the Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Great Wall of China, one of the world's most famous wonders. Explore the ancient hutongs (alleyways) on a rickshaw, taste authentic Peking duck and visit the bustling markets for unique souvenirs. Enjoy the serene beauty of the Summer Palace and Temple of Heaven. Witness the fusion of ancient traditions and modern lifestyle in this dynamic city. Beijing offers a unique blend of old and new, making it a must-visit destination for every traveler.

4-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Tiananmen Square and Forbidden City

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Tiananmen Square, the world's largest public square. Take in the grandeur of the square and its surrounding buildings, and soak in the historical significance of this place.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Chinese lunch in a local restaurant. Try the famous Peking duck and other local delicacies.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon exploring the Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important historical sites in China. Marvel at the ancient architecture and learn about China's imperial past.

Dinner

Have dinner in a vibrant food street, where you can sample a variety of Chinese street foods.

Evening

Experience Beijing's vibrant nightlife in the Sanlitun area, known for its trendy bars and clubs.

Morning

Visit the Temple of Heaven, a beautiful complex of religious buildings used for annual ceremonies of prayer for good harvest by the emperors.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local restaurant, where you can try Beijing's famous hot pot.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon shopping at the Silk Street, a bustling market known for its wide range of goods, from clothes and accessories to electronics and souvenirs.

Dinner

Enjoy a dinner in a local restaurant, trying out different regional Chinese cuisines.

Evening

Visit the National Centre for the Performing Arts for a cultural performance, such as a Peking Opera or a ballet show.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Summer Palace, a vast ensemble of lakes, gardens and palaces. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and take a leisurely boat ride on the Kunming Lake.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local restaurant near the Summer Palace, trying out local Beijing dishes.

Afternoon

Visit the 798 Art District, a thriving cultural area filled with contemporary art galleries, boutiques and cafes.

Dinner

Have dinner in a trendy restaurant in the 798 Art District, enjoying modern Chinese cuisine.

Evening

Experience Beijing's nightlife in the Houhai area, known for its lively bars and nightclubs.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Great Wall of China. Take a hike along the wall and enjoy the breathtaking views.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local restaurant near the Great Wall, trying out local dishes.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon shopping at the Panjiayuan Antique Market, a large market selling all kinds of antiques, crafts, and collectibles.

Dinner

Enjoy a farewell dinner in a local restaurant, trying out different Chinese dishes.

Evening

Spend your last evening in Beijing exploring the vibrant Wangfujing Night Market, known for its wide variety of street foods.

Attractions in Itinerary (11)

Tiananmen Square

1
Tiananmen Square

One of the largest city squares in the world, Tiananmen Square is a significant site of political history and a symbol of the Chinese nation.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Forbidden City

2
Forbidden City

The Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a vast complex of palaces and administrative buildings that served as the Chinese imperial palace from the Ming dynasty to the end of the Qing dynasty.

Attractions
Museums
Landmarks
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Sanlitun

3
Sanlitun

A vibrant area known for its many bars and clubs, international stores, and restaurants.

Attractions
Entertainment
Shopping
Food and Drink
Neighborhoods
Temple of Heaven

4
Temple of Heaven

An imperial complex of religious buildings situated in the southeastern part of central Beijing.

Attractions
Religious Sites
Landmarks
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Silk Street

5
Silk Street

A shopping center famous for its wide variety of counterfeit designer brand apparel.

Attractions
Shopping
National Centre for the Performing Arts

6
National Centre for the Performing Arts

A stunning ellipsoid dome of titanium and glass surrounded by a man-made lake, hosting various performances.

Attractions
Entertainment
Architecture
Summer Palace

7
Summer Palace

A vast ensemble of lakes, gardens and palaces in Beijing. It was an imperial garden in the Qing Dynasty.

Attractions
Parks
Landmarks
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
798 Art District

8
798 Art District

A thriving cultural area filled with contemporary art galleries, cafes, and shops in former factory buildings.

Attractions
Museums
Cultural Experiences
Neighborhoods
Houhai

9
Houhai

A popular lake area with a variety of bars, restaurants, and shops, offering boat rentals and live music.

Attractions
Entertainment
Food and Drink
Neighborhoods
Great Wall of China

10
Great Wall of China

An ancient series of walls and fortifications, built across the northern borders of China to protect the Chinese states and empires against the raids and invasions of the various nomadic groups of the Eurasian Steppe.

Attractions
Landmarks
Tours
Cultural Experiences
Panjiayuan Antique Market

11
Panjiayuan Antique Market

The largest antique market in China, offering a vast range of goods from different periods of the Chinese history.

Attractions
Shopping

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Peking Duck

Peking Duck

A famous dish from Beijing, where it has been prepared since the imperial era. The meat is characterized by its thin, crisp skin, with authentic versions of the dish serving mostly the skin and little meat, sliced in front of the diners by the cook.

Jiaozi

Jiaozi

Traditional Chinese dumplings, often eaten on Chinese New Year's Eve. They are a symbol of wealth and prosperity in Chinese culture and are a staple food in Northern China, including Beijing.

Zhajiangmian

Zhajiangmian

A popular noodle dish in Beijing, it consists of thick wheat noodles topped with a mixture of fried ground pork and zhajiang, a salty fermented soybean paste.

Mongolian Hotpot

A communal dish that's popular in Beijing, especially during the cold winter months. Diners cook their own meat, tofu, vegetables, and noodles in a simmering pot of soup.

Beijing Yogurt

A traditional Beijing drink served in a ceramic jar. It's a sweet and slightly sour yogurt, often consumed as a drink rather than a dessert.

Jing Jiang Rousi

A popular Beijing dish consisting of shredded pork in sweet bean sauce, served with leek and tofu wrappers.

Tudou Si

A traditional Beijing dish made from shredded potatoes stir-fried with peppers and vinegar. It's a common home-cooked dish in Beijing.

Lu Zhu Huo Shao

A traditional Beijing breakfast dish. It's a mutton stew served with baked wheaten cakes.

Beijing Roast Chestnuts

A popular street food in Beijing, especially in winter. The chestnuts are roasted in a large barrel-shaped roaster and have a sweet and smoky flavor.

Ma Doufu

A traditional Beijing dish made from fermented mung beans and tofu. It has a unique sour and spicy flavor.

Beijing Bao Du

A traditional Beijing dish made from boiled lamb offal. It's often served with a dipping sauce made from sesame paste, vinegar, and chili oil.

Beijing Mung Bean Milk

A traditional Beijing drink made from mung beans. It's often consumed for breakfast and has a slightly sour taste.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Beijing, China is during the spring (April - June) and autumn (September - October) seasons. During these periods, the weather is most pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities. Spring offers beautiful blossoms and green landscapes, while autumn showcases the city's stunning fall foliage. These seasons also avoid the extreme temperatures of Beijing's hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters. Additionally, these periods are outside of the peak domestic travel seasons, providing a more relaxed tourism experience.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

February 9

Fri

Spring Festival Eve

February 10

Sat

Lunar New Year

February 11

Sun

Spring Festival Golden Week holiday

February 12

Mon

Spring Festival Golden Week holiday

February 13

Tue

Spring Festival Golden Week holiday

February 14

Wed

Spring Festival Golden Week holiday

February 15

Thu

Spring Festival Golden Week holiday

March 8

Fri

International Women's Day

April 4

Thu

Qing Ming Jie

May 1

Wed

Labour Day

May 4

Sat

Youth Day

June 10

Mon

Dragon Boat Festival

September 17

Tue

Mid-Autumn Festival

October 1

Tue

National Day

October 2

Wed

National Day Golden Week holiday

October 3

Thu

National Day Golden Week holiday

October 4

Fri

National Day Golden Week holiday

October 5

Sat

National Day Golden Week holiday

October 6

Sun

National Day Golden Week holiday

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Beijing's subway system is extensive, efficient, and affordable. It covers most of the city's main attractions, business districts, and the airport. English signs and announcements are available.

Public buses in Beijing are a cheap way to get around, but they can be crowded during rush hours. They cover almost every corner of the city. The downside is that most bus signs and announcements are in Chinese.

Taxis are readily available throughout Beijing. They are metered and relatively affordable. Drivers may not speak English, so it's advisable to have your destination written in Chinese.

Ridesharing services like Didi Chuxing (similar to Uber) are popular in Beijing. The app is available in English and fares are usually cheaper than taxis. However, you'll need a Chinese phone number and payment method to use the service.

Beijing is a bike-friendly city with dedicated bike lanes. There are several bike-sharing companies like Ofo and Mobike. You can rent a bike using their app and drop it off at any public bike parking area.

Many of Beijing's attractions are located close to each other, making walking a viable option. The city is generally pedestrian-friendly with ample sidewalks and pedestrian zones.

Private car hire services are available, often with an English-speaking driver. This can be a convenient option for day trips or if you prefer a more comfortable and private mode of transport.

The Airport Express train links Beijing Capital International Airport with the city center. It's a fast and convenient way to travel between the airport and the city.

Rickshaws offer a unique way to explore Beijing, especially the narrow alleyways of the Hutongs. However, agree on a price before the ride to avoid overcharging.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency RMB

Time zoneUTC+8

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 120; Fire: 119; Police: 110, 122 (traffic accident)

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type CPower socket type I

Voltage220 V

Things to know about Beijing, China as a first time visitor

1

Beijing is the capital city of China and is one of the most populous cities in the world.

2

The official language is Mandarin, also known as Putonghua. English is not widely spoken, so it's a good idea to learn a few basic phrases.

3

The currency used in Beijing is the Renminbi (RMB), with the basic unit being the Yuan.

4

Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or street vendors.

5

Beijing operates on China Standard Time, which is 8 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT +8).

6

The city has a monsoon-influenced humid continental climate. Summers (June to August) can be hot with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C). Winters (December to February) are cold and dry with temperatures ranging from 14°F to 36°F (-10°C to 2°C).

7

Beijing is a safe city with a low crime rate. However, like any major city, it's wise to be cautious of your belongings and avoid less crowded areas at night.

8

Tipping is not customary in Beijing, and it's often not accepted in many places.

9

Public transportation is extensive and affordable. It includes the subway, buses, and taxis. However, during peak hours, these can be very crowded.

10

Beijing is known for its heavy air pollution. If you have respiratory problems, it's advisable to check the air quality index (AQI) before your trip.

11

Internet censorship is strict in China. Many Western websites and apps, including Google, Facebook, and Twitter, are blocked. Consider using a VPN if you need access to these sites.

12

Beijing's tap water is not safe to drink. Always drink bottled water.

13

Traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture are widely available and can be an interesting cultural experience.

14

Beijing cuisine is characterized by its variety and flavor. Don't miss out on trying Peking Duck, a local specialty.

15

Beijing is a mix of modern and traditional architecture. Respect local customs and traditions when visiting traditional sites.

16

Public restrooms in Beijing often do not provide toilet paper. It's a good idea to carry some with you.

17

Shopping in Beijing can be a fun experience. Remember to bargain in markets to get a good deal.

18

Beijing is a city that never sleeps. There are plenty of night markets, bars, and clubs for night owls.

19

Beijing's healthcare system is good, with many hospitals and clinics. However, not all staff may speak English.

20

If you're planning to visit other cities in China, Beijing has excellent rail and air connections.

Basic Mandarin Chinese to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

你好

Ni hao

Greeting someone

Goodbye

再见

Zai jian

Leaving or saying goodbye

Thank you

谢谢

Xie xie

Showing appreciation

Please

Qing

Making a request

Yes

Shi

Affirming or agreeing

No

不是

Bu shi

Disagreeing or denying

Sorry

对不起

Dui bu qi

Apologizing

Excuse me

打扰一下

Da rao yi xia

Getting attention or apologizing

Do you speak English?

你会说英语吗?

Ni hui shuo ying yu ma?

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

我不懂

Wo bu dong

Not understanding what was said

Where is the bathroom?

洗手间在哪里?

Xi shou jian zai na li?

Looking for the bathroom

How much does this cost?

这个多少钱?

Zhe ge duo shao qian?

Asking for the price of something

I would like to order

我想点菜

Wo xiang dian cai

Ordering food in a restaurant

Water

Shui

Asking for water

Help

帮助

Bang zhu

In need of assistance

Taxi

出租车

Chu zu che

Looking for a taxi

Hotel

酒店

Jiu dian

Looking for a hotel

Airport

机场

Ji chang

Looking for the airport

Train station

火车站

Huo che zhan

Looking for the train station

Can you help me?

你能帮我吗?

Ni neng bang wo ma?

Asking for help

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Underwear (4 pairs)

  • Socks (4 pairs)

  • T-shirts (4)

  • Long-sleeve shirts (2)

  • Pants/Jeans (2 pairs)

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Pajamas

  • Sweater or jacket

  • Rain jacket or umbrella

  • Swimsuit (if your hotel has a pool)

  • Hat and sunglasses

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Makeup and makeup remover

  • Hairbrush or comb

  • Travel-size first aid kit

  • Prescription medications

  • Sunscreen

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Visa

  • Driver's license

  • Health insurance card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash (Chinese Yuan)

  • Hotel reservation confirmation

  • Airline tickets

  • Emergency contacts and addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Power bank

  • Headphones

  • Laptop and charger (if necessary)

  • Camera and charger

  • Universal travel adapter

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Snacks

  • Books or e-books

  • Travel guide and map

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Travel-size laundry detergent

  • Plastic bags for dirty clothes

Weather Conditions

Beijing, China, experiences a temperate monsoon climate with four distinct seasons, so it's crucial to plan your visit accordingly. Spring (April to June) is generally mild and dry, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 75°F (10°C to 24°C). It's a great time to visit the Great Wall and the city's parks, but be prepared for occasional sandstorms. Summer (July to August) is hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 86°F (30°C). It's also the rainy season, so don't forget your umbrella. Despite the heat, it's a popular time to visit due to the many festivals, such as the Dragon Boat Festival. Autumn (September to October) is arguably the best time to visit Beijing. The weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C), and the city is adorned with beautiful fall colors. It's the perfect time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Winter (November to March) is cold and dry, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, sometimes as low as 14°F (-10°C). It's the off-peak season, so you'll find fewer tourists and lower prices. If you don't mind the cold, you can enjoy activities like ice skating and the spectacular Chinese New Year celebrations. Regardless of when you visit, remember to check the weather forecast regularly, as conditions can change rapidly. Also, be aware of the air quality index, as Beijing can sometimes experience high pollution levels. Lastly, dress in layers to accommodate fluctuating temperatures and always carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. Enjoy your trip to Beijing!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

2° / -9°

January is the coldest month in Beijing, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a quiet time for tourism, so you'll have many attractions to yourself.

February

4° / -7°

February is still quite cold, but temperatures are slowly starting to rise. The Chinese New Year often falls in February, making it a vibrant time to visit.

March

12° / 0°

March sees a significant rise in temperature, but it can still be chilly. The city starts to come alive with the onset of spring.

April

21° / 7°

April is a comfortable month to visit Beijing, with mild temperatures and a relatively low chance of rain. The city's parks and gardens are in full bloom.

May

28° / 12°

May is a warm month with plenty of sunshine, perfect for outdoor activities. The city is bustling with tourists and locals alike.

June

32° / 18°

June marks the beginning of summer in Beijing, with high temperatures and occasional rainstorms. It's a great time to visit the Great Wall and other outdoor attractions.

July

34° / 22°

July is the hottest month in Beijing, with high humidity levels. It's a great time to visit if you don't mind the heat, but be prepared for occasional thunderstorms.

August

33° / 21°

August is still quite hot, but temperatures start to drop towards the end of the month. It's a popular time for tourism, so expect crowds at major attractions.

September

27° / 15°

September is a pleasant month to visit Beijing, with mild temperatures and less rainfall. The city's parks are particularly beautiful as the leaves start to change color.

October

20° / 8°

October is a comfortable month to visit Beijing, with clear skies and cool temperatures. The autumn foliage is in full swing, making it a great time for photography.

November

10° / 0°

November sees a significant drop in temperature, but it's still a good time to visit if you don't mind the cold. The city is less crowded, and you can enjoy the last of the autumn colors.

December

2° / -6°

December is a cold and dry month in Beijing, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a quiet time for tourism, but you can enjoy winter activities like ice skating.

Did you know?

Did you know that Beijing is one of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China, along with Nanjing, Luoyang, and Chang'an (Xi'an)?

1 of 10

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