If you are wondering what a ball park figure would be for 6 or 7 days in Beijing not including hotel or accommodation read on.

Beijing of course is now best known as the host for the 2008 summer games. That raised the profile of the city as a result of the huge coverage the Olympic games receives.

I was actually over in Beijing at the time of the Olympics and from that can give you a rough guide for spending a week in Beijing. I have also spent 18 months living in Beijing and have been there as a tourist on several occasions.

That time was most likely the most expensive time to be in Beijing so if you go now you could expect cheaper prices.

For a week in the city assuming you are eating out most of the time you would need around $500 US.

Meals can be cheap or expensive compared with US prices. If you eat like a local you can enjoy a fantastic Chinese meal for around $4 US. Eat at a western style restaurant and you could be looking at $50 for a meal.

If you want some KFC or McDonalds there are plenty in the city. You can expect to pay around $2 for a Big Mac and around $3 for a KFC meal.

To get around the city there is an excellent transport network. The subway costs 2 RMB for a trip with unlimited transfers except on the airport line which costs 25 RMB or around $3 USD. You would probably spend $2 a day on transport. You can even get out to the Great Wall for a couple of dollars.

Now the shopping in Beijing is an interesting experience. You can bargain at many shops and prices are low if you stay away from the name brands. I spent less than $50 for new jeans, a few shirts and a few other odds and ends.

While in Beijing you would want to visit some attractions such as the Forbidden City, Tienanmen Square and the Temple of Heaven. All up the cost would be around 100 RMB or $15 US.

For the week your food costs would be around $70. Transport $15 and shopping $150. Attractions $15. All up that makes it $250 US for a week in Beijing not including accommodation or a flight to Beijing.