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Routes in Beijing

BEIJING / THE ROUTE EDIT

Hutongs, lakes & a coffee stop

A gentle day from the Drum Tower to the lakes, with old lanes and a café break along the way.

1 dayUnhurried3 stops
Friends holding lattes and iced coffee together; coffee-themed photography
Friends holding lattes and iced coffee together; coffee-themed photographyPhoto UnsplashUnsplash License (cropped for display)
Along the way3 stops
  1. Bell & Drum Tower neighbourhood
  2. Yandai Xiejie & Houhai
  3. Coffee around Gulou

Day 1

Bell & Drum Tower neighbourhood → Yandai Xiejie & Houhai → Coffee around Gulou

  1. Bell & Drum Tower neighbourhood

    Allow about 60 min

    Begin around the old city’s timekeeping landmarks and find breakfast in the surrounding lanes.

    Getting thereTake the metro to Guloudajie and walk into the neighbourhood.

    Before you goCheck separate opening and ticket details if you want to enter the towers.

  2. Yandai Xiejie & Houhai

    Allow about 90 min

    Follow Yandai Xiejie towards the water, then choose a quieter stretch of the lakeshore.

    Getting thereWalk south from the Drum Tower through Yandai Xiejie to the lakeside paths.

    Before you goKeep paths clear and stay off ice unless an area is officially open.

  3. Coffee around Gulou

    Allow about 60 min

    Choose an open neighbourhood café to sort your photos or write a few lines. Leave the rest of the afternoon unplanned.

    Getting thereWalk back towards Gulou, choosing a café within a comfortable distance.

    Before you goOpening hours and menus change; check before visiting.

This is a suggested itinerary; adjust visit lengths to your energy. Confirm opening, booking and transport arrangements with official providers before travelling.