Planning your first trip to China and only have one week? You’re not alone! With so many incredible cities and rich cultural heritage, choosing where to go can be overwhelming. But if this is your very first visit and you want to experience the best of China in a short time, Beijing is the perfect place to start.
Why Choose Beijing for Your First Trip?
Beijing is China’s historic and cultural heart. It offers a perfect mix of ancient landmarks, delicious food, vibrant neighborhoods, and modern conveniences—all packed into one exciting city. What’s more, it’s easy to reach from international destinations and has everything a first-time traveler wants to see.
What to See and Do in Beijing (1 Week Plan)
Here’s a sample 7-day itinerary for first-time visitors:
Day 1: Arrival and Welcome to Beijing
- Land at Beijing Capital International Airport.
- Check into your hotel and relax after your flight.
- If time allows, explore a local market or take a short walk through the historic Hutongs (traditional alleyways).
Day 2: Discover the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square
- Visit Tiananmen Square, one of the largest city squares in the world.
- Explore the Forbidden City, once home to emperors and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Enjoy Peking Duck for dinner—Beijing’s most famous dish!
Day 3: Day Trip to the Great Wall
- Take a day trip to the Great Wall of China, preferably to the Mutianyu or Jinshanling section for fewer crowds and stunning views.
- Optional: take a cable car or toboggan for fun!
Day 4: Temple Tour and Cultural Exploration
- Visit the Temple of Heaven, where ancient emperors prayed for good harvests.
- Experience local life at Panjiayuan Antique Market or try Chinese calligraphy in a workshop.
- Enjoy a traditional tea ceremony.
Day 5: Summer Palace and Local Cuisine
- Spend the day at the Summer Palace, a beautiful lakeside retreat with pavilions and gardens.
- Walk or boat along Kunming Lake.
- Try Beijing-style noodles or dumplings for dinner.
Day 6: Free Day or Optional Excursion
- Use this day to explore at your own pace or join a guided tour to places like:
- 798 Art District for modern Chinese art
- Beihai Park for a relaxing boat ride
- Or enjoy a traditional Chinese massage to wind down
- 798 Art District for modern Chinese art
Day 7: Shopping and Departure
- Do some last-minute shopping at Wangfujing Street or grab souvenirs at Nanluoguxiang.
- Head to the airport for your departure.
Why Not Shanghai or Xi’an?
Both are excellent cities, but for your very first time:
- Shanghai is modern and exciting, but less focused on traditional Chinese culture.
- Xi’an is home to the Terracotta Army, but takes extra travel time to reach.
Beijing gives you a perfect balance of ancient history and modern city life, with direct international flights and efficient public transport.
🎁Bonus Tip: Let Big Panda Tours Help You
Planning your first trip to China can be stressful—but it doesn’t have to be! Big Panda Tours has you covered! Our 4-day Beijing tours are designed for first-time travelers who want to see the highlights without stress.
With English-speaking guides, handpicked accommodations, and a relaxed, no-rush pace, we’ll take you to iconic places like the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and more—all while giving you time to enjoy the local culture and cuisine.
✨ Whether you’re on a tight schedule or just want a hassle-free introduction to China, this tour is the perfect fit.
👉 [Click here to explore our 4-day Beijing travel package!]
