Budget Beijing
Description:
Although China is still a relatively inexpensive part of the world, as a rapidly growing capital city Beijing can put a strain on your finances. However, there are still plenty of places you can go in the city of Beijing that will cost you very little. From the least expensive historical sights and free exhibitions to the cheapest eats and nightlife, this guide shows you how to have three exciting days in Beijing without breaking the bank. An ideal 3 days for young backpackers or students who want to experience the thrills of Asia without the excessive costs.
Author: BeijingBoy
Day 1 - Beijing
Just because you are on a budget doesn’t mean you can’t take in some of the essential Beijing sights. Head over to Tiananmen Square where you can walk around for free. Rather than pay to go into Forbidden City you can head over to Qianmen Dajie and take in the renovated historic street. This is a good way to save a bit of money but still take in the history and culture. Go to Liqun for a more traditional roast duck experience that is generally cheaper than chains like Da Dong or Quanjude. However, remember to call ahead to ‘reserve a duck’ about an hour before you plan to go to the restaurant. Head over to cheap and cheerful Nanjie bar in the evening for a great time on a limited budget. Also remember to call ahead to the Capital Museum to book a time to visit on Day 3.
1
Houhai Youth Hostel
Location:
view in google mapsNO.14,Sanbulao Hutong
Beijing, China
2
Tiananmen Square
Location:
view in google mapsChang An Avenue
Dong Cheng District
100006 Beijing, China
3
Qianmen Dajie
Location:
view in google mapsQianmen Street
Chongwen District
Beijing, China
4
Li Qun Roast Duck Restaurant
Location:
view in google maps11 Bei Xiang Feng Alley, Zheng Yi Road, off Qian Men Avenue
Xuan Wu District
100051 Beijing, China
Phone:
86 10 6702 56815
Nanjie
Location:
view in google mapsGongti Beilu
Opposite the Workers' Stadium North Gate
100824 Beijing, China
Phone:
+86 10 6413 0963Day 2 - Beijing
Summer Palace is certainly the best value large attraction in Beijing. It costs less to enter than Forbidden City yet it takes far longer to look around and is far more rewarding as a day out. The Summer Palace will take up most of your day and requires a fair amount of walking, so in the evening you will want a really substantial meal. Yuxin Sichuan restaurant may not be the cheapest place, but for a really authentic Sichuan restaurant that serves filling and delicious food it is one of the best options for a budget traveller. Your evening can be spent in Kai where you can party until late without spending all your money.
1
Summer Palace (Yi He Yuan)
Location:
view in google mapsHai Dian
100091 Beijing, China
Phone:
+86 10 6288 11442
Yuxin Chuan Cai
Location:
view in google maps24 Jianguomenwai Dajie
1/F & Basement of Jingtai Mansion
100022 Beijing, China
Phone:
86 10 6515 65883
Kai Club
Location:
view in google mapsSanlitun Beijie
100000 Beijing, China
Phone:
+86 10 6416 6254Day 3 - Beijing
If you are almost out of money you can still enjoy your time in Beijing. Check out the Capital Museum which is full of historic artefacts from Beijing’s past. You have to book a few days in advance, but it is free to enter and will make for an interesting morning. Head over to the 798 Art District in the afternoon where you can usually seem some interesting Chinese contemporary art for free or a minimal fee. Dinner on your last evening can be made even cheaper by avoiding a main restaurant and simply picking a small local establishment. If you are unsure what to order simply look around at what others are eating and ask for that. You can have a few affordable drinks in Rickshaw to complete the day, and your finances will still be healthy.
1
Capital Museum (Shou Du Bo Wu Guan)
Location:
view in google maps16 Fuxing Men Wai Dajie
100000 Beijing, China
Phone:
010/6337-04912
798 Art Zone
Location:
view in google mapsNo.4 Jiuxianqiao Road/Chaoyang District
Dashanzi Art District
Beijing, China
Phone:
86(0) 10-59789180/597891813
Rickshaw
Location:
view in google mapsCorner of Sanlitun Nanlu and Gongti Beilu
100027 Beijing, China
Phone:
86 10 6500 4330