Planning your first‑ever China trip or looking to dive deeper into its capital? This 6‑day Beijing itinerary blends imperial wonders, traditional neighborhoods, contemporary art, and authentic food experiences. Read on to discover how to spend six unforgettable days in Beijing.
📅 Day 1: Tiananmen Square & Forbidden City — Imperial Grandeur
Day 1: Tiananmen Square & Forbidden City – Imperial Grandeur
Kick off your 6‑day Beijing itinerary at Tiananmen Square, one of the world’s largest public plazas. From there, step into the Forbidden City—home to 24 emperors and nearly 1,000 halls of Ming and Qing dynasty splendor.
- Must‑see: Hall of Supreme Harmony, Palace of Earthly Tranquility
- Photo tip: Climb Jingshan Park for sunset vistas over the palace roofs
📅 Day 2: Temple of Heaven & Hutong Life – Spiritual Calm & Local Culture
Continue your 6‑day Beijing itinerary in the Temple of Heaven park, where you can watch locals practice Tai Chi and folk singing. In the afternoon, explore the maze of hutong alleys—ride a rickshaw, visit a courtyard home, and savor hand‑pulled noodles in Nanluoguxiang.
Don’t miss: Long Corridor murals, local market snacks
📅 Day 3: The Great Wall Adventure – Hike Through History
No 6‑day Beijing itinerary is complete without the Great Wall. Choose Mutianyu for family‑friendly facilities (chairlift and toboggan) or Jinshanling for rugged, less‑crowded sections.
Insider tip: Arrive before 9 AM to beat the crowds
📅 Day 4: Summer Palace & Olympic Park – From Emperors to Athletes
On day 4 of your 6‑day Beijing itinerary, visit the Summer Palace’s imperial gardens—take a boat on Kunming Lake and stroll the Seventeen‑Arch Bridge. In the evening, head to Olympic Park to see the illuminated Bird’s Nest and Water Cube.
Highlight: Marble Boat and night lights at the Bird’s Nest
📅 Day 5: Lama & Confucius Temples + Wudaoying – Belief Meets Bohemia
Begin your 6‑day Beijing itinerary at the serene Lama Temple, then explore the Confucius Temple next door. Spend your afternoon in Wudaoying Hutong, a bohemian enclave of indie cafés, bookstores, and design shops.
Spotlight: 26 m sandalwood Buddha, Confucian calligraphy courtyard
📅 Day 6: 798 Art Zone & Local Markets – Contemporary Creativity & Souvenirs
On your final day of the 6‑day Beijing itinerary, dive into the 798 Art District’s converted factories filled with galleries and street art. Finish by bargaining for antiques and silk at Panjiayuan Flea Market or enjoying fresh produce at a nearby wet market.
Must‑see: UCCA Center for Contemporary Art, warehouse cafés
🍜 Optional Add‑Ons
- Peking Duck dinner at Quanjude or Da Dong
- Kung Fu show at the Red Theater
- Calligraphy workshop in a restored siheyuan
🎒 Want to Explore Beijing Like a Local?
Let our local experts guide you through this thoughtfully curated experience:
👉 See Beijing Tour & Book Now✅ What’s Included in Our 6‑Day Beijing Tour
- Private English‑speaking guide for all sites
- Round‑trip transport to the Great Wall
- Tickets to Forbidden City, Summer Palace & Temple of Heaven
- 5‑night boutique hotel stay + daily breakfast
- Two local dining experiences (hotpot, duck dinner)
💬 FAQs for Your 6‑Day Beijing Itinerary
Q: Is six days enough in Beijing?
A: Yes—it lets you balance imperial history, modern art, and neighborhood life at a relaxed pace.
Q: Best time to visit Beijing?
A: Spring (April–May) and autumn (Sept–Oct) for mild weather and clear skies.
Q: Are tours available in English?
A: All our tours are led by fluent English‑speaking guides with local insights.
