Only Have 2 Days in Beijing? Here’s What You Shouldn’t MissPostingan blog

I flew to Beijing from Jakarta with just a carry-on, two days off, and a curious heart.

It was one of those spontaneous trips I’d dreamt about for years. China had always felt vast and a bit intimidating, but Beijing? It called to me. The mix of history, food, and power—how could I say no?

If you're thinking of doing a short trip to Beijing, let me tell you this: 48 hours is tight, but it’s enough to experience the magic. You just need the right plan, a bit of energy, and maybe a little help from someone who's been there.

So here’s what I did in two full days in Beijing—and what I absolutely recommend you don’t miss.

✈️ Arrival Tips: What I Learned Landing in Beijing

My flight landed around midday. Immigration was fast, and since I had pre-booked a transport service from the airport via this experience-based booking link, I skipped the taxi confusion completely. Highly recommend doing this if you don’t speak Mandarin.

Travel tip:
Get a local SIM, pocket Wi-Fi or you can buy eSIM here . Having Google Translate and a maps app saved me more times than I can count.

I checked in at a cozy hotel in the Dongcheng district, which is a great location if you want to be near key landmarks like the Forbidden City and Wangfujing Street. I found my place easily using this curated hotel search tool where I could filter by location and reviews.

🗓️ Day 1: Dive into Imperial China and Eat Like a Local

☀️ Morning: Forbidden City & Tiananmen Square

I started my day early—by 8 AM I was walking into Tiananmen Square, which felt both surreal and intense. It's not just a city square; it’s a symbol of modern Chinese history. Right across the street stands the Forbidden City, and trust me, this place is massive.

I had booked a guided tour with skip-the-line entry through this experience link, and it was 100% worth it. Having someone explain the stories behind each gate, statue, and hall made the entire place come alive.

What not to miss inside:

• The Gate of Supreme Harmony

• The Empress’s Garden

• Views from Jingshan Park (right behind the palace)

Bring water and good shoes. You’ll be walking A LOT.

🥟 Lunch: Noodles and Dumplings in a Hutong

After soaking up imperial grandeur, I wandered into one of Beijing’s hutongs (old alleyways). These neighborhoods are where you find real life—laundry lines, kids playing, locals chatting.

I found a small shop with no English name but a long line. Always a good sign. I ordered zhajiangmian (noodles with soybean paste) and pork dumplings. Delicious. If you prefer a local food tour, I met travelers who booked a culinary walk led by locals and raved about it.

🏯 Afternoon: Temple of Heaven

Next, I headed south to the Temple of Heaven, a large park complex where emperors once prayed for good harvests. The architecture is breathtaking, but what surprised me most was the locals dancing, singing, and playing cards under the trees. It felt peaceful and alive.

Pro tip:
This spot is underrated and not crowded in the afternoon. Book tickets online via this simple entry pass and you’ll walk right in.

🌃 Evening: Wangfujing Night Market

After resting a bit, I headed to Wangfujing, one of Beijing’s busiest night markets. It’s a bit touristy, but great for people-watching and trying weird snacks (scorpions on sticks, anyone?). I played it safe with grilled squid and candied hawthorn skewers.

I ended the night with a short walk back to the hotel, soaking in the city lights. Day 1 = mind blown.

🗓️ Day 2: Great Wall Adventure + Hidden Beijing

🌄 Morning: The Great Wall at Mutianyu

I woke up at 6 AM. Early, yes—but necessary. I had pre-booked a small group tour to the Great Wall at Mutianyu, which is less crowded and more scenic than Badaling.

My guide picked us up in a comfy van arranged through this guided experience link and by 9 AM we were hiking along the wall. The views? Unreal. Mountain ridges stretching endlessly, and a light breeze in the air. I stood there for a long time, just breathing and watching.

There’s also a cable car and a toboggan ride down if you’re up for some fun.

Travel tip:
Bring snacks and sunscreen. There aren’t many vendors up there.

🍽️ Lunch: Roast Duck Near Houhai Lake

Back in the city by 2 PM, I headed straight to a family-run restaurant near Houhai Lake to try the famous Peking Duck. Crispy skin, soft meat, and the sweet bean sauce... I get it now.

I sat by the window, watching locals ride bikes and paddle boats float by. It felt like a slow-motion moment in an otherwise buzzing city.

🧘‍♀️ Afternoon: Summer Palace or 798 Art District

If you’re into nature and palaces, go to the Summer Palace—a massive lake, beautiful bridges, and serene gardens. You can even rent a boat.

But if you prefer something modern, check out the 798 Art District. It’s a cool contrast: graffiti walls, indie cafés, and contemporary Chinese art. I ended up at a hidden teahouse, sipping chrysanthemum tea, editing photos, and writing down thoughts.

You can explore either easily using metro or rideshare services booked in advance.

🌇 Evening: City Lights and Reflections

On my last night, I went to Jingshan Park again—this time at sunset. It’s just behind the Forbidden City, and the view of the rooftops glowing under the orange sky? Unforgettable.

Later, I grabbed a final snack at a late-night baozi stand and took a slow walk back to my room. My heart felt full.

🌏 Why I Think Beijing is Worth Your 2 Days

Yes, it’s huge. Yes, two days aren’t enough to see everything. But it’s a city that gives you flavor, contrast, and a touch of awe—even in a short visit.

Between the history, food, parks, and unexpected quiet moments, I left Beijing feeling changed. And curious for more.

If you’re short on time, don’t worry. You can see, feel, and learn a lot in 48 hours—as long as you plan it right and leave space for surprises.

You can organize everything I did (flights, hotel, transport, tickets) using this all-in-one experience planner check options here which lets you build a full trip based on your time and style.

☕ Inspired by the journey?

If you enjoyed reading this or if it helped you plan your trip, feel free to buy me a coffee here. It keeps the writing going and the travel stories coming—thank you so much!

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