Day 1: Arrival in Beijing

After arriving in Beijing, check into your hotel and take some time to freshen up. Then head out to explore the city. Start with a visit to the iconic Tiananmen Square. This vast public square is home to several important buildings and monuments, including the Tiananmen Gate. Take some time to walk around and take in the atmosphere before heading into the Forbidden City.

Day 2: Exploring the Forbidden City and Jingshan Park

The Forbidden City is a vast imperial palace that was home to the emperors of China for centuries. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Beijing's most popular tourist attractions. Spend the morning exploring this incredible complex of buildings, gardens, and pavilions.

In the afternoon, head to nearby Jingshan Park for stunning views over the Forbidden City and the surrounding area. Climb to the top of the central hill to enjoy panoramic views of the city and relax in the peaceful surroundings.

Day 3: Temple of Heaven and Panjiayuan Antique Market

Start your day with a visit to the Temple of Heaven, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient temple complex was where the emperors of China came to pray for good harvests, and it is one of the most beautiful and peaceful places in Beijing.

In the afternoon, head to Panjiayuan Antique Market to browse for unique souvenirs and antiques. This bustling market is a great place to find all kinds of Chinese arts and crafts, from jade carvings to traditional paintings and calligraphy.

Day 4: Great Wall of China

No trip to Beijing would be complete without a visit to the Great Wall of China. This incredible feat of engineering runs for thousands of miles across the country, and there are a number of great locations near Beijing where you can visit the wall.

One popular option is the section of the wall at Mutianyu. This part of the wall has been fully restored and offers breathtaking views over the surrounding countryside. You can take a cable car or hike up to the wall, and there are plenty of opportunities to take photos and explore the watchtowers along the way.

Day 5: Summer Palace and Olympic Park

Spend the morning exploring the Summer Palace, a vast imperial garden that was once the summer retreat of the emperors of China. The scenic park is also home to several beautiful temples, pavilions, and lakes, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Beijing.

In the afternoon, head to Olympic Park to see some of the city's more modern attractions. This area was home to the 2008 Summer Olympics and features a number of iconic buildings, including the Bird's Nest Stadium and the Water Cube.

Day 6: Beihai Park and Houhai Lake

Start your day with a visit to Beihai Park, another beautiful imperial garden located in the heart of Beijing. The park is home to a number of temples and pavilions, as well as a large lake that you can explore by boat.

In the afternoon, head to nearby Houhai Lake to explore the trendy neighborhood of Hutongs. These narrow alleyways are home to a number of boutique shops, cafes, and art galleries, and they offer a glimpse into traditional Beijing life.

Day 7: Temple of Confucius and Llama Temple

On your final day in Beijing, explore some of the city's more off-the-beaten-path attractions. Start with a visit to the Temple of Confucius, a peaceful complex of buildings and gardens that was once a center of Confucian learning in China.

Next, head to the Llama Temple, a Tibetan Buddhist monastery that is home to some of the city's most beautiful statues and artwork. Take some time to wander through the complex and enjoy the peaceful surroundings before heading back to your hotel to prepare for your departure.

Beijing offers an incredible array of attractions, from ancient temples and palaces to modern Olympic venues and trendy neighborhoods. By following this seven-day itinerary, you can experience all that this vibrant city has to offer and create unforgettable memories of your trip to China.