Beijing
北京
China's ancient capital, where imperial history meets modern dynamism.
Grand, layered, and full of historical weight — Beijing feels like a capital city where imperial scale, intellectual energy, and everyday street life all overlap.
Why this city
A richer way to experience Beijing
Beijing, the political and cultural heart of China, is a city where millennia of history coexist with cutting-edge modernity. Home to more UNESCO World Heritage Sites than any other city in the world, it offers travelers an unparalleled window into Chinese civilization — from the vast grandeur of the Forbidden City to the sweeping majesty of the Great Wall. Beyond the landmarks, Beijing rewards exploration through its hutong alleyways, vibrant food scene, and world-class museums.
Best for
- ✓First-time visitors
- ✓History lovers
- ✓Museum fans
- ✓Travelers who want iconic landmarks
Essential highlights
What makes Beijing worth the trip
Walk along the Great Wall of China at Mutianyu or Badaling
Explore the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square
Stroll through the historic hutong alleyways of Nanluoguxiang
Visit the Temple of Heaven and Summer Palace
Sample Peking duck and street food at Wangfujing
Must-see places
Start with these standout experiences in Beijing
Great Wall
The Great Wall is China’s most iconic landmark, offering dramatic mountain views and a powerful glimpse into the country’s imperial history.
View Attraction →Forbidden City
The Forbidden City is a vast imperial palace complex in the heart of Beijing, known for its grand architecture, ceremonial halls, and royal collections.
View Attraction →Eat, stay, move
The practical side of enjoying Beijing
What to eat
The city's signature dish, best enjoyed in a classic roast duck restaurant with pancakes, scallions, and sweet bean sauce.
A comforting northern wheat noodle dish topped with savory soybean paste, minced pork, and crunchy vegetables.
Explore old alley neighborhoods for sesame flatbread, yogurt drinks, lamb skewers, and traditional Beijing sweets.
Where to stay
Central, convenient, and ideal for first-time visitors who want easy access to major landmarks and shopping streets.
Best for: First-time visitors and classic sightseeing
A more atmospheric area with hutong charm, boutique hotels, bars, and local cafés.
Best for: Travelers who want character and nightlife
Modern and international, with stylish hotels, restaurants, and expat-friendly services.
Best for: Food, nightlife, and a cosmopolitan base
Getting around
- Beijing's subway is extensive, affordable, and the easiest way to avoid traffic.
- Use ride-hailing for early morning Great Wall departures or late-night returns.
- Allow extra travel time because distances between major sights can be larger than expected.
Budget snapshot
Plan your spend with confidence
Budget
USD 50–80
Hostels or simple hotels, subway travel, and casual local food keep costs manageable.
Mid-range
USD 100–180
Comfortable hotels, a mix of taxis and subway, and one or two well-known restaurants.
Comfort / Premium
USD 220+
Upscale hotels, private transfers, and fine dining experiences such as famous duck restaurants.
Practical tips
Small things that make the trip smoother
- •Book Forbidden City tickets in advance, especially during weekends and holidays.
- •Choose Mutianyu over Badaling if you want a less crowded Great Wall experience.
- •Air quality can vary, so it is useful to check conditions if you are sensitive to pollution.
Suggested itinerary
3 Days in Beijing
Travelers with limited time who want Beijing's biggest highlights
Day 1 — Imperial Beijing
Morning
Start at Tiananmen Square and enter the Forbidden City when it opens.
Afternoon
Climb Jingshan Park for a panoramic view, then visit Beihai Park or nearby hutongs.
Evening
Enjoy Peking duck for dinner and take a relaxed walk around Wangfujing.
Day 2 — The Great Wall
Morning
Leave early for Mutianyu or another preferred Great Wall section.
Afternoon
Continue exploring the wall and return to the city with time to rest.
Evening
Head to Houhai or Gulou for dinner, bars, and a more atmospheric Beijing night scene.
Day 3 — Temples and local life
Morning
Visit the Temple of Heaven and watch locals doing morning exercises in the park.
Afternoon
Explore Nanluoguxiang and nearby hutongs, or choose the Summer Palace if you prefer grand scenery.
Evening
Finish with hotpot, northern noodles, or a modern Chinese restaurant in Sanlitun.
More itinerary ideas
Choose the pace that fits your trip
3 Days in Beijing
Travelers with limited time who want Beijing's biggest highlights
3 day plan
5 Days in Beijing
Visitors who want a fuller cultural and museum-heavy experience
5 day plan