places to travel in beijing

18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Beijing

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Aug 16, 2024

Beijing plays an important role in the nation's cultural, economic, scientific, and academic life. Located in the northwest of the North China Plain, not far from the western slopes of the Yanshan mountains, Beijing is still sometimes referred to as Peking and is a great place from which to explore this dynamic country due to its dense network of roads, railways, and airline connections with other major cities.

Beijing itself has no shortage of unique sightseeing opportunities. It is home to some of the country's best-known tourist attractions , including a section of the famous Great Wall of China at Badaling Pass . Among the city's many historical and cultural points of interest are the Imperial Palace, Beihai Park, Coal Hill Park, and the Heavenly Temple, most of them within the well-preserved historic city center.

Other things to do include exploring the mammoth Tiananmen Square and numerous important temples, as well as the new construction brought about by the city's increased prosperity and major events such as the 2008 Beijing Olympics. When you've had your fill of sightseeing, enjoy the city's great shopping and dining.

Plan your trip to the Far East with our list of the top tourist attractions in Beijing, China.

See also: Where to Stay in Beijing

The Palace Museum and the Forbidden City

The great wall of china, tiananmen square, beihai park, the temple of heaven, the summer palace, beijing national stadium, the lama temple (yonghe), beijing capital museum & the national centre for the performing arts, beijing ancient observatory, the fayuan temple, coal hill park (jingshan), the beijing temple of confucius, beijing zoo, the old summer palace at yuanmingyuan park, 798 art zone, national museum of china, universal beijing resort, where to stay in beijing for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions in beijing, beijing, china - climate chart.

The Imperial Palace , also known as the Forbidden City, is China's most significant attraction and can trace its origins back to the Yuan Dynasty of the 13th century. Its immense size is the result of enlargements made during the Ming Dynasty between 1406 and 1420 after the capital was transferred here from Nanking.

All told this beautiful palace has been home to 24 Ming and Qing Emperors, earning its nickname of the Forbidden City due to the fact ordinary citizens weren't allowed access. The complex covers 720,000 square meters, all of it surrounded by a 10-meter-high wall with towers in the four corners and a 50-meter-wide moat. It's divided into an area used for ceremonial and administrative purposes, as well as the private quarters once used by the Emperor and his concubines.

Highlights include the Meridian Gate, built in 1420; the Golden River Bridges, a network of five richly decorated white marble bridges; and the Hall of Preserving Harmony, which functioned as the Emperor's banquet hall.

Other places to visit include the Palace of Heavenly Purity, the largest hall in the Inner Court, and the Hall of Military Courage, a permanent residence and private audience hall for the emperors. The impressive 35-meter-high Hall of Supreme Harmony is notable as the country's largest surviving wooden building and for its splendidly decorated gilded imperial throne.

Located just a short walk away from The Palace Museum stands the historic Imperial College (Guozijian). Founded in 1287 by Kublai Khan and only closed in 1900, this beautiful structure served as the country's national university, and often saw the Emperors of old visit to further their education and knowledge. The complex covers more than 10,000 square meters, much of which can be explored.

Address: 4 Jingshan Front Street, Dongcheng, Beijing

Beijing is only an hour away from what is undoubtedly one of the country's most famous historic structures: the Great Wall of China. Here at Badaling Pass, the first part of the Wall to be opened to tourists in the 1950s, you can enjoy a walk along an impressive section of the Great Wall dating from the 16th century and standing up to eight meters high.

Along the way, you'll be able to enjoy numerous towers and parapets offering superb views over the surrounding dramatic scenery. While a hilly walk, you can in fact take a pleasant cable car ride up to the wall. This much-visited section of the Great Wall can get busy, so if possible try to plan your trip for an early arrival.

Another popular spot to experience the Great Wall is Mutianyu, parts of which date back to the 6th century. Rebuilt and expanded over the centuries, it is becoming increasingly popular for its magnificent views, which are particularly beautiful during spring and autumn.

A visit to Gubeai Water Town is a fun add-on to your Great Wall visit. Located adjacent to the Simatai section of China's best-known landmark, Gubeai is undeniably picturesque. In addition to the beautiful surrounding mountain scenery, there are many quiet canal-side pedestrian-only streets to explore, making it a very welcome break after bustling Beijing.

Tiananmen Square, also known as the Square of Heavenly Peace, is the world's largest inner-city square. Designed to hold a million people, it was built to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Chinese Republic in 1958. Considered the center of communist China, the square's symbolic importance dates back to May 4th, 1919, when students demonstrated against the Chinese provisions of the Treaty of Versailles.

Highlights of a visit include the Monument to the People's Heroes (Rénmín Yingxióng Jìniànbei), a 38-meter tall obelisk consisting of 17,000 pieces of granite and marble, and the splendid Tiananmen Gate , known as the Gate of Heavenly Peace. It was completed in 1417 and was once the main entrance to the Imperial City.

Another important gateway is Zhengyangmen , or Qianmen, the southernmost gate into Tiananmen Square. Tracing its roots back to the early 15th century and restored in the early 1900s, this imposing structure is considered one of the most important landmarks in the city.

Other features of note are the Military Museum of the Chinese People's Revolution with its exhibits illustrating the various stages of the Chinese Revolution from 1919 and the development of the Communist Party; and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong . Also known as the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall, it's here that the body of Mao rests in a crystal sarcophagus.

Address: Dongcheng, Beijing

Just a short distance from the Imperial Palace , Beihai Park is one of the oldest surviving imperial gardens in Beijing. Laid out at the beginning of the 10th century, this beautiful open space takes its name from nearby Lake Beihai (North Lake) and offers many good reasons to visit.

Among the park's most important structures are the Round Fort , dating from the Yuan period of 1271-1368, and the spectacular Hall of Enlightenment . Built in 1690, the hall is home to a one-and-a-half-meter-tall Buddha carved from a single block of white jade, and a large black jade vase from the early 12th century.

Another notable feature is the opulent residence of Song Qingling in which the widow of the founder of the Republic, Sun Yat-sen, lived for 18 years until her death (it's now a museum). You'll also want to see the Living Quarters of Mei Lanfang (Mei Lanfang Guju), a famous male star of the Peking Opera who specialized in playing the role of a woman.

Try to include the Guo Moruo Residence on your Beijing itinerary. It was here, in a home built in traditional Chinese courtyard style, that the famous writer and historian lived from 1963 until his death in 1978. Also, include the beautiful 17th-century White Pagoda on the Island of Exquisite Jade on your list.

Address: 1 Wenjin St, Xicheng, Beijing

The Temple of Heaven (Tiantán) dates back to 1420 and incorporates a group of some of Beijing's most sacred buildings. Surrounded by lush vegetation, these lovely old temples and shrines are set out in two sections, one rectangular, the other semi-circular. Together, they symbolize Heaven and Earth.

It was here that, on the day of the winter solstice, the Emperor would ascend the Heavenly Altar in a solemn ceremony to pray for a good harvest and offer sacrifices in the brightly decorated Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests (Qinian Dian). Built in 1420 in customary Chinese fashion of wood and entirely without nails, the hall sits on a three-tier marble terrace with balustrades and a roof covered with 50,000 blue glazed tiles. A marble plaque on the floor represents the dragon and the phoenix stone, symbols of the emperor.

Another highlight is the Hall of the Vault of Heaven (Huangqiong Yu). Erected in 153, it boasts a blue-tiled conical roof and was used to store the ceremonial plaques of Heaven and the Officials. Be sure to also visit the temple's Echo Wall , which echoes to even the quietest of voices, an effect exaggerated by three unusual echoing stones.

Address: 1 Tiantan E Road, Dongcheng Beijing

Located an easy 30-minute journey by car, bus, or taxi from the center of Beijing, the city's Summer Palace (Yíhé Yuán) is a must-visit. Dating back to the 12th century and more than 700 acres in size, it's a picture-perfect setting, which certainly befits its royal status, boasting a large 700-year-old man-made lake and beautiful gardens.

Often included on organized tours, the top things to see here are the western-styled "Marble Ship" (Shifang), the Hall of Well-being and Longevity (Renshou Dian) with its elaborate throne, and the beautiful courtyard adjoining the Hall of Happiness and Longevity (Leshou Tang Hall). You'll also want to see the impressive 19th-century Great Theatre, where you can catch performances of traditional Chinese plays and music.

One of the more popular things to do, if time permits, is to take a ride aboard the small pleasure craft that ferry tourists to the palace's temples; kids especially love the dragon-themed vessels. You'll also want to take a stroll past the traditional riverside shops on Suzhou Market Street.

Address: 19 Xinjiangongmen Road, Haidian District, Beijing

Recognized the world over for its role in the spectacular Summer Olympics held in Beijing in 2008, the National Stadium (Guójia tiyùchang), also affectionately nicknamed the Bird's Nest, is well worth a visit.

Built with a hefty price tag, this remarkable structure owes its unique design to the influences of traditional Chinese ceramics and has, since the Olympics, been used to host large cultural events and performances including opera, pop concerts, and football matches. In winter, it's turned into the world's largest manmade indoor ski slope. English language and self-guided tours are available.

Another nearby attraction is the Beijing National Aquatics Center . It's also known as the Water Cube for its attractive night-time display, which sees it lit up and looking like a giant ice cube. In addition to being the site of Olympic swimming events, part of the building has been turned into the fun Watercube Waterpark.

Afterward, be sure to stroll along the lovely Olympic Green. This pleasant parkland and green space will take you past many of the most significant buildings from the 2008 Olympics.

Address: 1 National Stadium S Road, Chaoyang

Also known as the Yonghe Temple, the Lama Temple is one of Beijing's most attractive and best-preserved temples. Completed in 1745, the building served a political purpose by giving Lamaism, the religion of the then-just annexed Tibet, an official seat in the capital. It was built to generous proportions and equipped with many valuable works of art.

Its most important feature is the Hall of the Kings of Heaven (Tian Wang Dian) with its statue of Buddha surrounded by the four kings who are provided with symbolic objects (a toad, sword, snake, and shield). Also noteworthy is the statue of Weituo, the protector of Buddhism, holding an iron staff.

Other important buildings include the Pavilion of the Four-tongued Stele (Yubi Ting), which houses a stele dating back to 1792 that contains the history of the Lama religion written in Chinese, Manchurian, Tibetan, and Mongolian; and the Hall of the Buddhist Wheel (Falun Dian), the teaching and assembly hall of the monastery, its interior dominated by a six-meter-tall statue, two thrones, and numerous sacred manuscripts.

Be sure to also see the largest building at the Lama Temple, the Pavilion of Four Thousand Fortunes (Wangfu Ge), with its enormous 18-meter-high sandalwood statue.

Address: 12 Yonghegong Street, Dongcheng, Beijing

Arts and culture buffs are extremely well catered to in Beijing. Of particular interest is the excellent Beijing Capital Museum , one of the country's leading art museums. Opened in 1981, the museum boasts a vast collection of artifacts, including ancient items of porcelain and bronze, traditional calligraphy and artwork, along with many fine statues from Chinese and other Asian cultures.

Other highlights of its collection of more than 200,000 important cultural artifacts, many originating from in and around Beijing. These include the huge gravestone of Emperor Qian Long. Weighing more than 40 tons, it stands nearly seven meters in height and contains ancient scripts and writings.

Another modern Beijing landmark worth visiting is the National Centre for the Performing Arts (Guójia dà jùyuàn), also nicknamed the Giant Egg. Considered one of the best opera houses in Asia, the building opened in 2001 and has since hosted many of the world's leading operatic performers. It's particularly worth visiting if you're able to take in a performance.

Address: 16 Fuxingmen Outer St, Xicheng, Beijing

Completed in 1442, the fortress-like Beijing Ancient Observatory (Beijing Gu Guanxiàngtái) lies in the east of the city near the station quarter and was continuously in use right up until 1929. It is widely considered one of the oldest such observatories in the world.

Among the 10,000-square-meter facility's many fascinating old pre-telescopic instruments are a celestial globe dating from 1673 and an 18th-century armillary globe depicting the planets, at least those that were known at the time. There are also a number of large bronze instruments designed by the Jesuit missionary Ferdinand Verbiest.

Once part of the old city walls, this tall brick tower serves as a museum offering a glimpse into the surprising amount of knowledge of the stars and planets that existed at the time.

Address: 2 Dongbiaobei Hutong, Jian Wai Da Jie, Dongcheng, Beijing

Fayuan Temple (Fayuán Sì), also known as the Source of Law Temple, dates back to the year AD 645 and consists of several halls where many ancient stone inscriptions are kept, the oldest dating from the 7th century. The temple has witnessed many of Beijing's most important historic events, including serving as a prison for Emperor Huizong in the 12th century, a place of examination for the highest offices of state, as well as a botanical garden.

Today, the temple is a place of worship and the seat of the Buddhist Academy , the most important educational establishment in China. Other highlights include the bell and drum towers in the first courtyard; the Hall of the Kings of Heaven with its fine statues; the Mahavira Hall housing Buddhas of the present, past, and future represented in 18 Luohan figures; and, one of the temple's most precious objects, a Han Dynasty (AD 25-220) ceramic statue in the Dabianjue Tang Hall.

Another Buddhist site worth visiting is the Zhihua Temple . Dating from 1444, it's one of the most important original Ming period complexes in Beijing's old town. Of particular note is the two-story Tathagata Hall (Rulai Dian), named after its statue of the transcendental Buddha. It's also known as 10,000 Buddha Hall for the many small Buddha figurines adorning the walls.

Address: 7 Fayuansi Front St, Xicheng, Beijing

Located directly opposite the North Gate of the Imperial Palace, Coal Hill Park (Jingshan) offers some of the best views in Beijing, particularly over Beihai Park Lake and the Forbidden Palace . Taking its name from the coal that was once stored here for the Ming Emperors, this largely man-made hill, one of just a handful in Beijing, was started around 1416 during the construction of the Imperial Palace.

After years of receiving rubble from the old city wall and large quantities of soil from the excavation of the moat surrounding the palace, the once-low natural mound soared to its current height. A highlight of a visit, in addition to the many splendid gardens and walkways, is an old acacia tree from which the last Ming emperor was supposed to have hung himself in 1644.

Address: 44 Jingshan W St, Xicheng District, Beijing

A short walk from the Lama Temple in a pleasant side alley spanned by ornamental gates is the Beijing Temple of Confucius. Built in 1302, it's dedicated to the great philosopher and teacher, Confucius, whose teachings dominated public and private life for centuries.

One of China's best-known Confucius temples, the Beijing Temple once hosted many elaborate ceremonies honoring its namesake under the leadership of the emperor. The forecourt harbors 198 steles with inscriptions naming all 51,624 Confucian scholars who, after 1416, successfully passed the highest examinations of the state until abolished in 1904.

A highlight is the Hall of Great Achievements (Dacheng Dian). It's home to numerous shrines dedicated to Confucius, his students, and other Confucian philosophers, as well as many old musical instruments and other ritual items used in the celebrations, which take place on the large terrace in front of the hall.

Another religious site worth a visit for its fine exterior is Niu Jie Qingzhen Si Mosque , built in AD 995. Beijing's oldest and largest mosque, it's in the Muslim quarter and includes a minaret, a six-cornered moon observatory tower, and two pavilions featuring numerous steles with Chinese and Arabic inscriptions. Only Muslims are permitted to enter.

Address: 15 Guozijian Street, Dongcheng, Beijing

Located in the northwest area of the city, the Beijing Zoo (Bei jing dòng wù yuán) covers an area of more than 220 acres and was established in 1906, making it one of the oldest zoos in China.

Boasting an impressive collection of close to 15,000 animals from 950 species, the largest in the country, the zoo includes many rare native species. Notable examples include South China tigers, snow leopards, golden snub-nosed monkeys, and pandas. Not-so-rare species include the red-crowned crane and Pere David's deer.

Species from across the world are also well represented and include elephants, lions, and jaguars, all spread around grounds that closely resemble classical Chinese gardens. These beautiful areas come complete with dense woods, meadows, rivers, streams, and ponds, along with a number of pleasant gazebos and terraces. The zoo also has a well-stocked aquarium.

Address: 137 Xizhimen Outer St, Xicheng, Beijing

Although now mostly just ruins, the Old Summer Palace (Yuanmingyuan) is located in Yuanmingyuan Park in northwestern Beijing and is well worth a visit. Once the imperial residence of the Qianlong Emperor, it was considered one of the most spectacular achievements of Chinese architecture and garden design when constructed in the 1700s, and was for a time known as the "Garden of Gardens."

The palace was home to a vast and important collection of art and antiquities and was looted and destroyed by the British and French during the Second Opium War in 1860. It took hundreds of troops three days to burn and demolish the site.

These days, the grounds serve as a popular public park, and the old ruins are a delight to explore. To gain a picture of just how spectacular the old palace once was, be sure to pop into the small on-site museum with its reconstructions and models.

Also known as Dashanzi Art District, 798 Art Zone is a unique art community, and one of the more unusual things to do in Beijing. This vibrant cultural district grew up in and around a former military manufacturing complex in Beijing. Now dedicated entirely to more peaceful pursuits, these interesting old factories and warehouses are home to everything from galleries to studios and exhibition spaces hosting events dedicated to the arts.

It's a delightful area to explore, with at every turn some interesting and sometimes challenging art on display or performed by artists from across China and from around the world. While still very much a hub of artistic endeavors, in recent years 798 Art Zone has also become increasingly gentrified and is now as much a draw for its hip shopping opportunities.

There's everything here from bookstores and galleries to designer fashion boutiques, along with many cafés and restaurants.

Address: 2 Jiuxianqiao Road, Chaoyang, Beijing

Occupying a large chunk of the east section of Tiananmen Square, the impressive National Museum of China is the second most visited art museum in the world after the Louvre in Paris, and also one of the largest.

Opened in 2003 and completely renovated in 2011, the museum serves as a place of education regarding the country's rich history, with a particular focus on exhibits related to culture and art. Expect to spend many an hour here as there is so much to see in each of the museum's 48 exhibition halls.

Especially interesting among the museum's more than one million artifacts is the huge Simuwu Ding, the world's heaviest ancient bronzeware, as well as collections of rare gold, jade, and ceramic artifacts from various dynasties through the ages. Other interesting exhibits deal with the first human settlements in the country, as well as the founding of the communist state.

If you're planning a lengthy visit, note there's a café and teahouse serving refreshments. Also, a strict "no-selfie stick" policy is in place, so if you have one, be prepared to leave it back at your hotel or at the coat check.

Address: 16 E Chang'an Ave, Dongcheng, Beijing

The city's newest attraction, Universal Beijing Resort , is also one of the best places to visit in China for those traveling with kids. Construction of this multi-billion dollar, 990-acre project started in 2016 and the first "districts" within the park opened in 2021.

Usually referred to simply as Universal Beijing and one of the largest of the country's theme parks, you'll notice plenty of similarities with other destinations in the brand's portfolio. The focal point, Universal Citywalk, features food and shopping experiences, along with an array of entertainment options and accommodations.

The real fun, though, is to be found in Universal Studios. In addition to thrilling rides and fun experiences based around such characters as the Minions, Transformers, and Harry Potter . Kids will love exploring the world of Kung Fu Panda: Land of Awesomeness . A second theme park and ride area, along with a waterpark, are also planned.

Luxury Hotels:

• For those unconcerned about price, you can't do much better than to book a stay at the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel Beijing . This elegant five-star luxury hotel offers a variety of well-appointed rooms and suites boasting stylish decor, as well as amenities including multiple restaurants and a deluxe spa.
• Another well-regarded luxury option is the exquisite Waldorf Astoria Beijing , popular for its central location, sizable bedrooms, and even larger suites, along with amenities including a fitness center, hot tub, and indoor swimming pool.
• Also worthy of consideration is the all-suite The Peninsula Beijing , a five-star hotel boasting spacious accommodations with separate living and sleeping areas, all decorated with delightful Chinese themes.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• The Renaissance Beijing Capital Hotel is a popular mid-range high-rise hotel, which features a pleasant contemporary design, rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, along with multiple restaurants, an indoor pool, and a sauna.
• Shichahai Shadow Art Performance Hotel is another great option in this price category and features pleasant Chinese-themed public spaces; a variety of room sizes, from cozy singles to spacious family suites; and many amenities, including a café and concierge service (and yes, free shadow puppet shows, too).
• If you're looking for a great place to stay near the historic Huguosi Hutong area, the Sofu Hotel is an excellent choice and comes with modern, comfortable rooms and lounges all just a short stroll from great shopping and dining.

Budget Hotels:

• The wonderfully named Double Happiness Beijing Courtyard Hotel is a pleasant three-star affair that boasts outstanding staff and an authentic Chinese feel, along with traditional-styled furniture in its rooms, some of which overlook a leafy courtyard.
• Also popular in the budget hotel category, the Nostalgia Hotel Beijing Xidan is just a short walk from the city's metro and, as its name suggests, comes with a fun nostalgic feel and vintage décor.
• A great option for younger couples and friends traveling together is the Beijing Downtown Travelotel , which offers clean, comfortable accommodations along with a variety of tour options, all just steps away from the Imperial City.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Beijing Day Trips: While there are plenty of fun things to see and do in Beijing, try to find time in your China travel itinerary to see the sights surrounding the country's capital. Top day trips from Beijing include a visit to the Great Wall, naturally. But be sure to visit other points of interest, too, such as the scenic Fragrant Hills Park, a fun mountain area named after the fact that its peak looks like an incense burner; the Caves of Zhoukoudian and the Peking Man Museum; and the Marco Polo Bridge, named after the famed explorer who traveled the area extensively.

Other Great Cities : Thanks to the many easy connecting flights available from Beijing's modern international airport, some of the most interesting of China's cities are not much more than a couple of hours away. Popular destinations to fly to from Beijing include Shanghai , where you can explore the city's historic Bund promenade; Chengdu , the home of the famous Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (check out their unique panda experiences!); and Hangzhou , perhaps best known for beautiful West Lake, making this city one of the most picturesque in the country.

China Outdoor Adventures: Adventure seekers are also well-catered to in China. Some of the best experiences are in the northwesternmost part of the country, where you'll find Dunhuang , famous throughout the ages for its prominent location on the historic Silk Road trade route. Here, you can enjoy such outdoor adventures as camel trekking through the rugged Gobi Desert, as well as exploring some of the most remote sections of the Great Wall. There's also plenty of outdoor fun to be had enjoying a cruise on the Li River between Guilin and Yangshuo . Highlights include a chance to drift past some of the most dramatic, breathtaking scenery in the country, and afterward embark on a smaller river aboard a traditional bamboo canoe.

More on China

26 AWESOME Things to Do in Beijing, China (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 5, 2024

From exploring the Forbidden City to walking along the famous Great Wall of China, here is our list of the absolute best things to do in Beijing. 

Welcome to one of the most awe-inspiring, mind-blowing and just plain crazy cities on the face of the earth.

Beijing has everything: history, culture, stunning scenery, food and a healthy dose of culture shock.

I first visited Beijing back in 2008 just before the Beijing Olympics and I loved it so much that I returned in 2011 and lived there for over 7 years.

It became my home in a way I never imagined and to this day it is still my favourite city in the world.

There are so many awesome things to do, that you will be spoilt for choice. 

Beijing is a city that has changed constantly throughout its history.

Walls, palaces and temples have been knocked down and replaced as the city grew from a small settlement to one of the largest cities on earth.

Beijing’s history is intertwined with the story of China.

The city was a great power until the industrial revolution when the colonial powers came knocking on China’s door demanding it open for trade.

At this point, Beijing was the seat of power, and the Forbidden City was the centre of the known universe and the heart of one of the largest empires on earth.

Over the course of the 1800’s China and Beijing’s fortunes reversed.

READ MORE: Check out our comprehensive China travel guide if you’re planning a visit!

Wars, unequal treaties and poor governance lead to the collapse of the Qing Dynasty and Imperial China.

What followed was the Civil War, the Japanese invasion and more Civil War.

Beijing was at the centre of this change and strife. So it was fitting that in 1949 Chairman Mao’s People Liberation Army marched into Beijing and Mao himself stood atop the gate of heavenly peace saying the Chinese people had stood up.

The Peoples Republic of China was formed and power was back in Beijing.

As China continues it’s rapid ascension to the upper echelons of the geopolitical tower this only enhances the importance, power and prestige of Beijing. 

Table of Contents

1) See The Flag-Lowering Ceremony At Tiananmen Square 

2) visit chairman mao’s mausoleum, 3) check out the forbidden city , 4) take a relaxing wander around jingshan park, 5) get lost wandering around the national museum of china, 6) visit the lamma temple , 7) escape the crowds at the confucius temple and imperial college, 8) take a wander around xiangshan, 9) be amazed by the summer palace, 10) wander around the ruins of the old summer palace , 11) visit tianyi’s mausoleum, 12) be amazed by the stunning frescos at fahai si, 13) see where many historians say world war 2 started , 14) take a wander through the city’s hutongs , 15) check out some awesome art in 798, 16) explore the temple of heaven, 17) get stuck into some square dancing, 18) eat real peking duck (北京烤鸭), 19) find all manner of awesome stuff at the panjiayuan antiques market, 20) get a foot massage, 21) take a wander down the foreign legation quarter , 22) get stuck into bargaining around xidan, 23) throw down some baijiu, 24) explore one of beijing’s many hidden temples, 25) take a trip to stunning cuandixia, 26) visit the great wall of china, best hostel in beijing – peking international youth hostel, best accommodation for couples in beijing – ming courtyard hotel, best mid-range accommodation in beijing – the emperor, best luxury accommodation in beijing – the orchid, beijing classics , hot pot (火锅), crawfish (小龙虾), beijing bbq (北京烤肉), roast lamb leg (烤羊腿), chuan’er (串), the best things to do in beijing.

There is no other city in the world like Beijing.

From some of the most impressive structures ever built in the ancient world to the hutongs (胡同 narrow alleyways) that are the city’s heart and soul, this is a city of contradictions, chaos and a healthy dollop of China. 

Beijing is most famous for the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square and the Hutongs.

However, there are plenty of other cool things to do here, so enjoy our list of awesome things to do in Beijing. 

Not sure what to do in Beijing? Then start with a visit to Tiananmen square.

For many, this is what first springs to mind when anyone thinks of China’s capital.

This gargantuan public square (the seventh-largest in the world) is flanked by the National Museum of China on one side and the Great Hall of the People (the building that hosts various meetings and events of the Communist Party) on the other. 

Every day the Chinese flag is risen at sunrise and lowered at sunset.

Either of these times is atmospheric. However, the sunset is particularly beautiful.

As the sky darkens the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square are lit up.

This is definitely one of the best things to do in Beijing. 

• Nearest Subway: Tiananmen East on Line 1 
• Opening Hours: Flag raising to flag lowering. Therefore if you watch the flag-lowering ceremony, you will watch it from the roads next to the square itself. 

Located in the centre of Tiananmen Square is Chairman Mao ’s Mausoleum.

To get onto Tiananmen Square itself you will need to bring your passport and go through a bag check.

The lines to get in and pay your respects can be very long, especially during national holidays. During this time it can seem like this is the most popular Beijing attraction.

Going earlier in the day can usually avoid this.

You cannot take camera’s in, and they are very strict about it. However, this rule may change.

Again, to get in you will need to show your passport and have your bag checked. Shorts, flip flops and vests are not permitted. 

You can purchase flowers to show your respects if you would like.

As you pass through be silent and do not stop walking. When you exit the mausoleum you will be at the south end of Tiananmen Square, so you a stone’s throw from exploring the Qianmen area.

Be prepared to be offered all kinds of Mao memorabilia.

• Nearest Subway: Qianmen or Tiananmen East
• Opening Hours: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm from Tuesday to Sunday

READ MORE: If you’re visiting China, make sure you check out Mount Huashan , the world’s most dangerous hike!

If you’re wondering what to do in Beijing, then you can’t miss this…

Welcome to one of Beijing’s, and indeed China’s, most stunning historical destinations.

From 1368 – 1911 this was the home of 24 emperors and the centre of the Chinese world.

Make no mistake the Forbidden City is huge. Inside is a mixture of palaces, courtyards, temples, gardens and museums.

The sheer size and majesty are overwhelming and it’s hard to believe this it’s over 600 years old. This is definitely a must-do in Beijing.

You can only book tickets online so as the number of visitors can be controlled.

You will need to bring your passport with you as this is the ID you use when booking your tickets. 

Do be aware that the Forbidden City is closed on Mondays and can be particularly busy during national holidays.

Even with the crowds, this is definitely a Beijing must-see . 

• Nearest Subway: Tiananmen East
• Opening Hours: 8:30 am – 5:00 pm from April to October, and 8:30 am – 4:30 pm from November to March. Closed on Mondays.
• Cost: 60 Yuan

At the northern end of the Forbidden City (the exit), you will find Jingshan Park.

If you’re looking for some excellent views of the Forbidden City then this is the place to come.

Sunset is particularly nice and is certainly one of the top things to do in Beijing.

However, for convenience, you could just visit this park straight after visiting the Forbidden City. It would certainly be a nice change of pace from the crowds and chaos nestled within the walls of the Forbidden City.

• Nearest Subway: It’s probably Beihaibei on line 6, but it’s a fair trek away. You will be better off getting a bus if you are coming here directly and not coming from the Forbidden City. For anything bus-related, you will need to download Baidu Ditu , the Google Maps of China.
• Opening Hours: April to October: 6:00 am – 9:00 pm, ticket sale ends at 8:30 pm. November to March: 6:30 am – 8:00 pm, ticket sale ends at 7:30 pm
• Cost: 2 Yuan

Located on the eastern edge of Tiananmen Square is the phenomenal Museum of China.

Bring your passport and expect long queues to get in.

There is a lot to see here and the English captions are generally very good throughout. 

• Nearest Subway: Tiananmen East on line 1 or Qianmen on line 2
• Opening Hours: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm. Tickets are issued until 3:30 pm and the last entry is 4:00 pm. 

This spectacular Tibetan Buddhist Temple is a central pillar of the Buddhist world in Beijing.

It certainly one of the most spectacular Tibetan temples outside of China’s far-flung Himalayan province.

There are a couple of interesting museums inside that are well worth checking out. 

If you’re here during a major holiday there is a good chance that the temple will be chock full of worshippers coming and lighting incense.

With 3 stunning archways, 5 main halls that grow in size and a giant prayer wheel it’s easy to see why this is such a focal point for Buddhism in Beijing.

• Nearest Subway: Yonghegong (Lamma Temple) on line 2 and 5. 
• Opening Hours: 9:00 am – 4:30 pm from April to October and 9:00 am to 4:00 pm from November to March.
• Cost: 25 Yuan

Nestled in the hutongs to the west of the Lamma Temple you will find the Confucius Temple.

Head down Guozijian from the Lamma Temple and you will soon see it on your right-hand side. 

This is the site of the second-largest Confucian Temple in China. (The largest temple is in the great philosopher’s hometown of Qufu in Shandong.)

It has an almost ethereal atmosphere as if time has stood still.

Upon stepping over the threshold the sights, sounds and smells of a city of 20 million or so people disappear.

As well as being a homage to Confucius himself, this was also the site of the Imperial Examinations.

Passing these guaranteed wealth, status and life in the government during the time of Imperial China.

These tests focused on the candidates’ knowledge of the classics and literary style, not technical expertise, which as you can imagine lead to more than few issues before the Imperial Examination system was abolished in 1905.

Students would be tested in 1.5-metre cells over the course of 3 days.

Within the temple grounds, you will find the 13  Confucian classics written on 190 stelae, all 630,000 characters worth. 

•   Nearest Subway: Yonghegong (Lamma Temple) line 2 and line 5.
• Opening Hours: 8:30 am – 6:00 pm (sales end at 5:30 pm) from May to October. From November to April its 8:30 am – 5:00 pm (sales end at 4:30 pm).
• Cost: 30 Yuan.

READ MORE: Don’t miss out on our guide on how to spend 3 days in Chengdu !

Literally translated as ‘fragrant hills’ in English, this spectacular park out in Beijing’s north-west is home to some lovely views, great walking trails and a memorial hall dedicated to Sun Yat-Sen, the man who founded the Republic of China after the collapse of the Qing Dynasty. 

With its own stop on the Beijing subway system, Xiangshan is easier to visit than ever.

Head up to the parks highest point, Xianglu Peak for some lovely views out over western hills.

From here you can hike further into the hills to escape the crowds if you wish.

This spot is very popular in autumn as Beijingers flock to view the hills become splashed with red and orange. 

Between the entrance and Xianglu Peak, there are a variety of trails, pathways pavilions and temples that snake their way up to the parks highest point.

Make sure you check out Zhao Miao (Zhao temple) as well.

Close to the north gate of Xiangshan is the Azure Clouds Temple (Biyun Temple) which costs 10 Yuan and is open from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Here you can visit the memorial hall of Dr Sun Yat Sen, one of the most important and revered figures in Chinese history. 

• Nearest subway station: Xiangshan on the western suburban line. From here it’s just under 1km to the park entrance. 
• Opening hours: 6:00 am – 6:30 pm – April to June and September to mid-November. 6:00 am – 7:00 pm July to August. 6:00 am – 6:00 pm mid-November to March.
• Cost: Park and Biyun Temple – 15 Yuan from April to mid-November and 14 Yuan outside of that. 

Way out in Western Beijing, close(ish) to Xiangshan, is the stunning Summer Palace.

This was built by the Qianlong Emperor in the 18th century with the help of 100,000 labourers.

After the Summer Palace was badly damaged by British and French forces, the Empress Dowager Cixi began a major refit in 1888.

However, the money that she used for this refit was originally destined for the Chinese navy.

After China’s crushing defeat in the First Sino-Japanese War 1894-95, this act of corruption certainly came to the fore. 

After the collapse of the Qing Dynasty, the Summer Palace fell into a state of disrepair and an overhaul began upon the formation of the PRC in 1949. 

Longevity Hill offers some stunning views over Kunming Lake and then snakes down through a number of Pagodas and pavilions giving you a true insight into the opulence of Imperial China.

After exploring the Longevity Hill area head out towards Kunming lake.

Be under no illusions, Kunming Lake is pretty large so it’s certainly not a short walk.

However there a number of gorgeous bridges that are well worth checking out. The pick of these being the 17-Arch Bridge . 

On a clear day, this really is one of the best things to do in Beijing, with views from the top of Longevity Hill stretching right the back into Central Beijing. 

• Nearest subway: Xiyuan on line 4 
• Opening hours: April to October – 6:30 am to 6:00 pm and November to March – 7:00 am to 5:00 pm. 
• Cost: April to October – 60 Yuan and November to March 50 Yuan.

The Old Summer Palace is actually the former site of the Imperial Gardens.

In 1860, during the Second Opium War, the site was burnt and looted by British and French forces.

Numerous artworks were stolen and can now be found in 47 museums around the world.

At over 800 acres in size, it took 4,000 men 3 days to burn it to the ground. 

The Great Fountain Ruins are some of the best-preserved and offer the opportunity to reimagine the gardens at the grandest and most spectacular.

The gardens are home to numerous pavilions, temples and lakes.

There are also some excellent exhibits focusing on the history of the Old Summer Palace. 

• Nearest subway station:  Yuanmingyuan on line 4. 
• Opening hours: May to August – 7:00 am to 7:00 pm. April, September and October – 7:00 am to 6:00 pm. January, February, March, November and December – 7:00 am to 5:30 pm.
• Cost: 10 Yuan, with additional costs for other exhibitions and sites. 

Way out in Beijing’s Babaoshan district is the home of two of cities most off the beaten track destinations. 

Tianyi was a eunuch that was castrated at the age of 9 and went on to serve in the imperial court for 63 years.

Upon his death, the emperor demanded 3 days of mourning and ordered the creation of the mausoleum.

As well as being a monument to the life of Tianyi, there are also some excellent exhibits discussing the importance of eunuchs in Imperial China. A rather gruesome, yet fascinating area of Chinese history.

This is definitely one of the most interesting places to see in Beijing and one that is very much off the beaten track.

• Nearest subway station: Take line 1 all the way to Pingguoyuan, and then take bus 116, 396, 336 or 972 to Shougangxiaoqu ( 首钢小区 ). 
• Opening times: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm. 
• Cost: 8 Yuan. 

A short walk from Tianyi’s Mausoleum is the stunning Fahai Si (Fahai Temple).

It what’s inside the temple that is most notable; its stunning Buddhist frescos.

Due to the sensitivity of the paintings, the doors are kept closed and you need to go with a tour that can be arranged when you have arrived.

Safe to say they are stunning, although the tour is in Mandarin. You can just enter to look around the temple grounds itself as well.  

• Nearest subway station: Same as for Tanya’s mausoleum. 
• Opening times: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm, closed on Mondays. 
• Cost: 20 Yuan to enter the temple grounds, 100 Yuan to combine this with a tour of the frescos.

Another trip out to Beijing’s far western suburbs will take you to the Marco Polo Bridge and the small fortified town of Wanping .

It was here in 1937 that the Imperial Japanese Army demanded to enter Wanping to search for a missing soldier.

When this was refused they opened fire. Crucially, things did not calm down after this incident as had been the case in previous skirmishes across Manchuria.

It leads to a full-blown invasion of China by the Imperial Japanese Army.

Hence why it is this point that is considered the beginning of the second Sino-Japanese War and thus, by extension, World War Two.

The Chinese forces held Wanping and the Japanese forces surrounded them and crossed the famous Marco Polo Bridge.

This name comes from the fact it was included in Marco Polos famous travel diaries in which he believed the bridge to be one of the most beautiful in the world.

The bridge and Wanping are both riddled with bullet points, a stark reminder of one of the darkest periods in Chinese history. 

• Nearest subway station: Head to Beijing West Station and then take bus 309 to Lugou Xinqiao.
• Opening hours: 7:00 am – 8:00 pm April to October, 7:00 am – 6:00 pm November to March. 
• Cost: 20 Yuan

For many, this is where the heart of Beijing lies.

The winding alleyways of homes and businesses are what Beijing used to be made up of.

However, Beijing’s rampant growth over the last few decades has seen the number of hutongs decline dramatically.

In truth, these wonderful examples of old Beijing are not modern homes.

Insulation and sanitation are poor in many cases. Some of the really old hutong homes don’t have bathrooms and there will be a shared bathroom used by the neighbourhood. 

Taking a wander through the hutong’s is one of the best things to do in Beijing.

This is especially true early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the life and soul of the community are out and about. 

My favourite hutongs are the areas around the Drum Tower (head to Gulou Dajie and then head south-east), the area between Qianmen and Qiaowan subway stations and the area south-west of Caishikou subway station.

The joys of the hutong’s come from getting lost in the maze of alleyways and getting a taste of the old Beijing life.

Ride a rickshaw through Beijings Hutongs on this great tour on Get Your Guide !

Up in the city’s northeast, you will find a sprawling area home to an incredible array of galleries and art exhibitions.

This area is home to some of Beijing’s hippest and funkiest hangouts.

Take a day to explore the wide variety of art on offer when you visit Beijing.

• Nearest subway station: Wangjing South on line 14
• Opening times: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
• Cost: Free to enter most galleries, however, some will charge fees

One of China’s most important religious sites, the Temple of Heaven is a Unesco World Heritage Site and a true demonstration of the power and majesty of Imperial China. 

The site is huge. However, the highlight is the temple itself.

If you want to see a true slice of Beijing, get here very early in the morning, around 6 am then you will be treated to huge groups doing tai chi.

Later on in the day, you may be able to catch one of the marriage markets where parents try to fix their single children up with desirable suiters. 

The latter of these is certainly one of the more unique Beijing sights.

Our tip – Book your ticket online and skip the line!

• Nearest subway station: Tian Tan on line 5
• Opening times: April to October – 6:00 am – 10:00 pm and November to March – 6:30 am – 10:00 pm. 
• Cost: 35/30 Yuan.

This rather modern Chinese activity happens in a number of public spaces in the evenings.

Activities range from outdoor karaoke to inline skating. However the most common and accessible is dancing.

Huge groups of Beijingers get together as the sun goes down to dance the night away.

You may have to pay to join some of these classes. However, they are great fun. 

The best place to find these is in some of the cities residential areas. Check with your accommodation where the best place is to get involved.

Incidentally, the area around the Birds Nest Stadium , at the Olympic Park, is a particularly awesome place to see this in action.

Plus you get the sight of the Birds Nest Stadium lit up at night! 

For many, this is THE quintessential Beijing dish.

Head over to Sijiminfu (四季民富) close to Dongsishitiao subway station.

They do not take reservations so you will need to turn up, get a ticket and wait.

Fortunately, you can head off and explore the surrounding area while you wait and leave your phone number with the restaurant.

They will call you when your table is ready. However, if you can’t be back in time you will lose your spot.

Getting stuck into some Peking Duck and some of the other mouth-watering dishes here is definitely one of the top things to do in Beijing. 

Eat Peking Duck while taking in a kung fu show with this tour !

This fantastic market, located in the cities south-east, is home to all manner of antiques, artwork, books, knick-knacks and just about everything in between.

If you are looking to pick up some classic Mao-era posters and some walnuts (to roll around in your hands, not eat) then this is a great place to start.

Shopping here is absolutely one of the most fun things to do in Beijing, however, get ready to bargain hard. 

• Nearest subway: Panjiayuan on line 10
• Opening hours: Roughly 9:00 am till 6:00 pm but they may go on a little later. 

You will find these places all over Beijing, you just need to look for these characters – 足疗.

But be prepared for these to hurt. It’s not soft and relaxing, however, you will feel much better afterwards. 

Although there certainly will be a language barrier, most places will understand the inevitable ‘ow.’ More often than not your pain will get plenty of laughs from the masseurs.

This definitely becomes one of the top Beijing activities, as it will set your feet right as rain after a day hiking on the Great Wall. 

Close to Tiananmen Square, you will find Dongjiaomin alley.

This street was home to the foreign legations during the Qing Dynasty at a time where China was at the mercy of the Western Powers.

It is definitely a historical point of interest in Beijing.

• Nearest subway: Chongwenmen line 2 and line 5 and take exit E and it’s immediately on your left. 

If you’re looking for a place to find some bargains and get lost amongst the market stalls then Xidan is a great place to start.

Many tourists end up at the Silk Market (also known as Silk Street) near Yonganli.

However, you will likely get ripped off here and will end up sharing the entire place with tourists as the locals do not shop here.

Xidan is full of bargains, hardly any tourists and an opportunity to really test your bargaining skills. 

• Nearest subway station: Xidan on line 1 and 4 

Chinese liquor consists predominantly of rice wine. The fieriest of which is called Baijiu.

More often than not this is 50% or higher and tastes like what I imagine rocket fuel tastes like.

However, do not be surprised if drinking it will attract the interests of some local Beijingers.

Beijing is home to a number of incredible temples that receive hardly any visitors wandering around them is very enjoyable.

Amongst them, some highlights would be the Fayuan Temple , close to Caishikou subway station, the Tianning Temple , close to Daguanying subway station and the White Cloud Temple just north of it. 

If you’re looking for quiet relaxing places to go in Beijing then this is a great start.

Usually, they are open from 8 am to 4 pm and cost between 10 and 20 Yuan to enter.

The chances are you that you will share your visit with barely even a handful of people.

Enjoy the opportunity to get a bit of zen in this city of 20 million.

This gorgeous town way out in West Beijing is nestled in a valley offering spectacular views and some decent hiking trails.

Although it’s a reasonable trek from the city centre it is one of the best things to do in Beijing giving you the chance to experience something more in line with many peoples perceptions of China.

The narrow alleyways that make it a fascinating place to explore and the trails into hills offer some stunning views.

The long trek out here is absolutely worth it. 

• Getting there: Take the subway Pingguoyuan on line 1 and then take a bus or a minibus from there. Drivers will find you, one way should be between 30 and 50 Yuan. 

The Great Wall of China is possibly the ultimate Beijing sightseeing spot.

There are numerous sections of the Great Wall stretching as far as Gansu in Western China.

However, it’s important to know that these sections are not all interconnected. 

It is possible to get out to the Great Wall with public transport with most of the buses going from Dongzhimen or Deshengmen bus stations.

It is possible to camp on portions of the Great Wall if you are interested in that unique experience.

Be warned, any walk on the Great Wall is no easy endeavour, so be prepared for a serious workout.

If you want to get onto the quieter and more wild sections of the wall, then check out some organized hikes that are available.

It’s certainly more expensive than taking public transport, but the routes are amazing and they will get you to some spectacular sections of the wall.

This is certainly one of the most fun things to do in Beijing.

Of all the sections around Beijing, Badaling is the one to avoid. It’s poorly restored, overcrowded and chock full of tourist tat.

Particularly great sections are Gubeikou, Mutianyu , Simatai and Jinshanling . 

Beijing Travel Guide

Now that you know all the great Beijing activities to check out on your next visit, I want to help you plan the rest of your trip.

In this Beijing travel guide, I’ll share with you tips on how to get around, where to stay, and most importantly, where to eat!

Getting Around Beijing

English is not widely spoken in Beijing, which means that you will definitely need to make the most of translation apps and a hearty dose of sign language occasionally. 

Beijing’s subway system is excellent and cheap.

The maximum you can pay for a journey is 9 Yuan, approximately USD$1.25.

The exception is if you take the airport express line with is 25 Yuan return.

You can pick up a subway card that you can pre-charge. You will need to pay a 20 Yuan deposit which is returned when you return the card.

Curiously they are not available at every station. But generally, the larger stations will have them.

To buy one simply show them this 我要买地铁卡 and then hold up your fingers to indicate how many.

The chances of finding an English speaking subway worker is slim to none. These cards also work on the buses.

Do be aware that subways end at 11:00 pm at the latest.

Beijing’s bus network is absolutely outstanding. The announcements are in English and Mandarin Chinese. However, the timetables at bus stops are usually only in Mandarin.

Download Baidu maps (the Chinese version of google maps) and you can use this to work out which buses you need to take.

Taxi is a potentially good option. However, scams do operate and with various ride-sharing services hailing a cab can be a frustrating affair.

Also, Beijing’s rush hour traffic is a truly awful thing to be caught in so be aware. 

Where to Stay in Beijing 

The best place to stay is probably the Dongcheng district, which is really the heart of Beijing.

Although there would be plenty of other people that would argue differently.

Whatever you decide, the nearer you are to a subway station, the better.

The Peking International Youth Hostel is located in the heart of the Gulou area, which is home to some of the cities most pulsating hutongs.

Incidentally, there are a number of great places to eat in the area, as well as hutongs galore to explore.

This place consistently gets excellent reviews from travellers.

Being in one of the cities most central locations public transport links are excellent, but hailing a taxi in this area can be difficult.

This great little courtyard option is in the heart of Dongcheng making it a short walk to some of the cities best bits.

Also if you want a quintessential Chinese experience then staying in a courtyard hotel like this a must.

In addition, the area surrounding the hotel is great to explore. Like the Peking International Youth Hostel, the public transport links are excellent but hailing a taxi can be a pain.

In the mornings there are plenty of food carts nourishing Beijingers with jianbing (煎饼), a pancake with egg, lettuce, meat and some other bits, a great way to start the day.

This excellent value hotel is about 10 minutes walk from Tiananmen square and finds itself on the edge of the funky hutong area Dashilian’r, again with an almost never-ending ‘r.’

There are a number of awesome hutongs to explore in this area, a perfect evening activity.

Head south-west down towards Caishikou through Dashilian’r. This area is full of shops and restaurants.

If you’re looking for a quieter alternative head south-east towards Qiaowan subway station.

This absolute gem of a hotel is hidden on Baochao hutong in the heart of the Gulou district, one of Bejing’s funkiest spots.

Check out nearby Nanluoguxiang and Beiluoguxiang, these alleyways are chock full of people and action.

If you’re looking for some real luxury it is possible to hire entire hutong homes giving you your own piece of privacy in the heart of Beijing’s hutongs.

Offering a variety of excellent spaces, top-notch food, a courtyard feel and wonderful rooftop views, this is a gem in every sense of the word. 

Eating in Beijing 

Chinese cuisine sometimes seems like an unending adventure of flavours, spices and styles and Beijing is the best place to sample it.

Nowhere else in China can you find such a wide range of phenomenal Chinese cuisine.

Simply put Beijing is the best place in China to sample the stunning variety of Chinese cuisine has to offer. 

These restaurants are some of my favourites. But as a word of warning, do not expect much English to be spoken.

Also, food hygiene standards are not the same in China as they are in the West. However, the Chinese have a saying 苍蝇馆子 which literally translates as the best restaurants are the ones with flies .

Zha Jiang Mian (炸酱面) – This dry salty noodle dish is classic Beijing fare and you can find it all over the city.

There are a number of excellent hole in the wall noodle restaurants around the Gulou/Jiaodaokou areas of the city that serve an excellent version of this dish. 

This classic Sichuan/Chongqing delicacy can also be found all over Beijing.

Check out Hiadilao (海底捞), one of the biggest restaurant chains in China or Huangmen (黄门). They can be found all over the city. 

A tray of steaming crawfish that have been cooked in some seriously spicy sauce is certainly not the tidiest thing to eat but it is simply outstanding.

Head to Tian Yi Ge (天一阁) very close to Dongzhimen subway station on the edge of ghost street.

If this isn’t your cup of tea then there is a huge menu serving other Chinese classics. 

Head to the phenomenal Long Men Xia (龙门峡) on Jiao Dao Kou East Street (交道口东大街) to sample so excellent Beijing BBQ.

Do not expect English to be spoken and the menu is written in Chinese.

However, the staff will be willing to help you to translate!

Located on Andingmennei Dajie (安定门内大街) you will find the excellent Zhang Ji (张记烤羊腿).

As well as serving whole roast legs of lamb, they also have amazing chuan’r (串 skewered meat cooked over a barbecue). 

Pronounced chwar , with what seems like an endless ‘r’ at times, you can find this all over this city.

In the summer these small restaurants spill out onto the street.

Enjoy skewered meat and vegetables washed down with a couple of beers.

Check out Stone Age (石器时代) for some excellent options. 

Richard Barnes

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

Love Travel?

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter for the best travel tips, ideas and deals!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

READ MORE...

Surviving The World’s Most Dangerous Hike – Mt Huashan

The 10 BEST Things to Do in Hangzhou, China (2024 Guide)

The PERFECT 3 Days in Taipei Itinerary [2024 Guide]

Related Posts

Getting a chinese visa in hanoi, vietnam, how to visit zhangjiajie national forest park (the avatar mountains), extending your chinese visa in shanghai, 1 thought on “26 awesome things to do in beijing, china (2024 guide)”.

Many thanks for this great article with things-to-do in Beijing.

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Beijing   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Steve Peterson Photography | Getty Images

16 Best Things To Do in Beijing

Updated Feb. 11, 2021

The close proximity of Beijing's top attractions makes touring this massive city very manageable. First, your impulse will be to head to Tiananmen Square , which hosts the Forbidden City , the National Museum of China  and several other monuments. From

• All Things To Do

The Great Wall of China The Great Wall of China

Just north of Beijing, you'll find one of the most famous monuments in the world: the Great Wall of China. Although it's unlikely you'll see the whole thing, you should aim to experience a portion of it. That begs the question: Which section?

Only an hour's drive northwest of Beijing, the Badaling section is convenient, hosts a large souvenir market, and has a gondola to whisk visitors up and down the wall. Sounds perfect, right? Well, and that's why thousands of tourists decide to venture here. This can create mob-like scenes that can spoil the trip, but it's unpredictable. Plenty of visitors rave about this section of the wall and say a visit is a must. Entrance to the Badaling section of wall (not including the gondola ride) costs 40 yuan (about $6) in the winter and spring and 45 yuan (about $6.60 ) in the summer and fall. You can start hiking the Badaling portion at 6:40 a.m., and you must be down by 6:30 p.m. every day.

Summer Palace (Yiheyuan) Summer Palace (Yiheyuan)

When the bustle of Beijing becomes too much for you, do as the emperors would do and retreat to the Summer Palace. Located in the northwest suburbs, this oasis – literally, an oasis with serene Kunming Lake – is home to several attractions. Nearly every gate, pavilion, hall and tower has a unique history and merits a photo. Despite the palace's historic appeal, most tourists are charmed by what's outside: The Summer Palace possesses the largest imperial garden in China. The Seventeen-Arch Bridge stretches into Kunming Lake, providing excellent views of the east bank and South Lake Island. And at an impressive 2,388 feet in length, the Long Corridor garners lots of attention.

Travelers are rarely disappointed by the wonders of the Summer Palace. Many advise visiting early in the day to avoid crowds, but regardless, most call the palace amazing. Reviewers suggested setting aside at least half a day to wander the grounds. Visitors also recommended seeing the site with the help of a guide, who can help you understand its vast history.  

Forbidden City (Imperial Palace) Forbidden City (Imperial Palace)

Operating under the official title of "The Palace Museum," the Forbidden City (also known as the Imperial Palace) has been a place of wonder and mystery for more than 500 years. This massive complex sits on the northern edge of Tiananmen Square at the epicenter of Beijing. Beyond its towering fortifications, you'll find an intricate labyrinth of squares, halls, gates, pavilions, sleeping quarters and temples. In some of the structures, curated art and historic relics have been placed; however, the greatest achievement is the compound itself. Not-to-be-missed highlights include the Meridian Gate, the Turret, the Antiquarium and the Imperial Garden.

Recent visitors, who called the park fascinating, suggest giving yourself plenty of time to tour and buying tickets in advance if you can. Others were disappointed by the sheer volume of tourists and recommend avoiding a weekend visit if possible. You'll also want to wear a hat and sunscreen as there is little shade. Several reviewers also suggested hiring a guide to help you navigate the site and better understand its history, or at the very least, purchasing a map which doubles as a souvenir. Audio guide rentals are another option.

Beihai Park (Beihai Gongyuan) Beihai Park (Beihai Gongyuan)

After the concrete jungles of Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City , head to nearby Beihai Park for a breath of fresh air. Whether you're under a tree overlooking the lake or in an ancient pagoda, you'll see why this former imperial garden has been a preserved sanctuary since its creation in A.D. 1166. Over time, the park has acquired more and more monuments. Not-to-be-missed highlights include the Temple of Everlasting Peace, White Dagoba and the Circular City.

Visitors love its peaceful setting, saying even with lots of people around, you can still find a quiet place to reflect. Some reviewers recommend riding a boat on the lake to reach different attractions, while others suggest setting aside several hours to walk its grounds (it is massive, spanning more than 170 acres).

Nanluoguxiang Nanluoguxiang free

North of the Forbidden City , this neighborhood packs so much character into its narrow streets (hutongs). Nanlouguxiang continually surprises you with exciting discoveries in boutique shops and tantalizing flavors from unassuming vendors. When you need a shopping break, visit the Bell and Drum Towers that also reside here. While this bohemian district has witnessed an increase in tourist volume, it has avoided the commercialization and urban renovations that characterize other Beijing areas.

Many visitors appreciate the blend of new and old and enjoy spending time browsing around. Reviewers said this is a great place to browse for souvenirs.

Tiananmen Square Tiananmen Square free

Up there with Times Square , Red Square and St. Peter's Square , Tiananmen Square is among the world's most famous public spaces. Almost anyone can recognize the Gate of Heavenly Peace emblazoned with a portrait of Chairman Mao as a symbol of Beijing. The square is the geographic, political and tourist center of the city, which makes it unavoidable. Although Tiananmen Square looks like a field of concrete (which it is), you'll want to see it for the surrounding attractions: The Great Hall of the People, the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong, the National Museum of China and the Forbidden City sit on the edges.

Recent visitors warned the area is usually crowded, with lots of guards, which some found disconcerting. Nonetheless, most visitors said it's a must-see landmark. Plus, taking a picture here is almost required to prove you've been to Beijing.

Best Beijing Tours

Beijing Tours

Week in Photos: Obama's Asia-Pacific Tour, Remembrance Day, Comet Landing and More

Nov. 17, 2014

Dashanzi Art District and 798 Space Dashanzi Art District and 798 Space free

Fact: The arts are booming in Beijing. You only need to tour the Dashanzi Art District to witness this creative surge. The epicenter of this artistic explosion is 798 Space (also known as Factory 798), an old electronics manufacturing site and warehouse. Originally designed by East Germans in the 1950s, the stern architecture beautifully juxtaposes the richly colorful contents of artist studios. The 2-million-square-foot venue boasts galleries, eateries and bars, making it a one-stop-shop for hip locals and curious tourists.

Recent visitors said the neighborhood appeals to nearly everyone because of the diverse offerings found here and recommend giving yourself plenty of time to simply wander around. Reviewers said you'll want to take a bevy of pictures thanks to the colorful atmosphere. Many others suggested purchasing souvenirs here as the offerings are quite unique. If you're an art lover, heed the advice of past travelers and plan to make multiple visits.

National Centre for the Performing Arts National Centre for the Performing Arts

Sometimes called the "Giant Egg" due to its unique shape, the National Centre for the Performing Arts is actually home to three different venues: the Opera House, the Concert Hall and the Theatre. Everything from ballets to dramas are staged here. The unusual property also has an artificial lake and lots of green space surrounding, it making it a magnet for locals and visitors alike. The exterior of the building is a unique titanium glass oval shell and all the passages and entrances into it are built underwater, which lends a surreal aspect as you enter.

Recent visitors were wowed by the architecture and highly recommend checking it out. It's free to wander outside, but there is a small fee to enter the building. English language tours are also offered for a fee.

Lama Temple (Yonghegong) Lama Temple (Yonghegong)

You'll immediately notice the rigid symmetry of the complex, which derives from the imperial architectural style. As the seat of Tibetan Buddhism in Beijing, you'll see this temple of prayer is still used by religious followers, so be respectful. Throughout its halls, you'll see Buddha temples, statues, murals and carvings.

The humble grandeur of the Lama Temple and its accompanying buildings impresses many visitors, who find the temple a pleasant surprise in the bustling city. Meanwhile, others delighted in the peaceful, incense-filled air.

National Museum of China National Museum of China free

For a survey of Chinese history, head to the National Museum of China. Positioned on the eastern edge of Tiananmen Square , the exhibits in this museum neatly outline the nation's past for visitors, both native and foreign. After a massive renovation, the facility reopened in the spring of 2011 with updated displays and an interior facelift. Among the many treasures (more than one million), you'll find entire rooms dedicated to jade, porcelain and bronze artifacts.

When looking at the collection, travelers are generally impressed, with many saying you need at least two to three hours to even begin to see all the treasures it holds. Visitors also appreciate it is free to visit. If you plan to visit, keep these tips from reviewers in mind: stop by the museum at the start of your trip to Beijing to better understand the city and Chinese culture overall; the museum is better suited to visitors interested in history and archaeology than art; English translation is lacking in certain areas.

Bell and Drum Towers (Hutong) Bell and Drum Towers (Hutong)

Once used as musical instruments and later as the official government time piece, the Bell and Drum Towers crown the charming Nanluoguxiang district. Amid the maze of alleys, you'll appreciate having these two historical pillars to guide your exploration of the neighborhood. You'll immediately notice the 150-foot Drum Tower from its vibrant red walls, turquoise roof and decorative symbols. The Bell Tower is the more subdued gray sister, standing nearby. These ancient landmarks (the original structures date back to 1272) offer exceptional views of Beijing, but you'll have to take a hike to reach their peaks. Most visitors agree climbing the steep stairs is worth it for the views.

If you wish to climb the stairs, you'll have to fork over 15 yuan (about $2) for the Bell Tower and 20 yuan (about $3) for the Drum Tower or 30 yuan ($4.40) for both. The towers open daily around 9 a.m. and close at 5 p.m. every day. The closest subway stop is Guloudajie on lines 2 and 8.

Olympic Park Olympic Park free

Deemed China's coming-out party, the 2008 Summer Olympics placed Beijing in the world spotlight. Beijing carved out huge tracts of land to construct this international stage. The excitement has since passed, and the park and some of its facilities have been repurposed for public use. The surviving structures include the National Stadium (or the "Bird's Nest"), the National Aquatics Center (or the "Water Cube") and the Olympic Forest Park. New buildings, like the China National Convention Center, have changed the park's landscape.

The majority of past travelers still enjoyed making the pilgrimage to Olympic Park and recent visitors expressed their amazement at its architecture, especially at night when some of the structures are illuminated. During the day, you'll frequently find locals flying kites. However, some reviewers were underwhelmed with the complex and advise against making a special trip to see it.

Temple of Heaven Park (Tiatan Park) Temple of Heaven Park (Tiatan Park)

To reach the Temple of Heaven, you don't have to have an untimely passing. Just get off the subway at Tiantan Dongmen. As you'd expect, this green space is a peaceful asylum, immune to the urban bustle. In the Confucian spirit, the park offers respite among ancient cypress trees alongside remarkable structures. You shouldn't miss the Zhaoheng Gate, the Animal Killing Pavilion (no longer functioning as such) and the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests.

Travelers are regularly floored by the beauty (and people-watching) in the park and say it's a highlight of any visit. Others were relieved to find the site wasn't as crowded as the Forbidden City . As with many of the other top sights in Beijing, travelers recommend you hire a guide to get the most out of your visit. Though there is an audio guide available for rent, some visitors were disappointed with its breadth.  

Ritan Park Ritan Park free

Read More »

Panjiayuan Antique Market Panjiayuan Antique Market free

Ming Tombs Ming Tombs

Explore More of Beijing

Best Hotels

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

30 Fun Fall Weekend Getaways for 2024

Holly Johnson August 29, 2024

The 19 Best Fall Family Vacations for 2024

Amanda Norcross August 27, 2024

The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

Holly Johnson|Timothy J. Forster May 8, 2024

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Beijing Travel Guide

As one of the world's great ancient capitals, and the capital of the world's upcoming superpower, Beijing is the most important and interesting city in China to travel, both for tourism and understanding China.

What is Beijing like? A sense of China's history (served as the capital of China in six ancient dynasties for 800 years), a cultural hub (opera, architecture, dialect, food, etc), and tourist friendliness (receiving about 3 million foreign visitors every year).

• Top Attractions & Places to Visit
• How to Plan a Beijing Trip
• Top Beijing Tours
• Travel Guide by Month

Beijing Maps

Top attractions & places to visit in beijing, how to plan a trip to beijing.

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

Top Private Beijing Tours

• Exploration of Beijing's history and culture
• Hutong discovery and traditional food
• Beijing city highlights
• Simatai Great Wall at night and Gubei Water Town
• Special Forbidden City tour for kids
• Traditional hutong and modern Beijing
• Ski at an Olympic resort
• Hot spring experience

Experience imperial Beijing and discover Xi'an's 2,000-year-old secrets in 6 days. Feel the old traditions.

Travel from China's capital to its prosperous largest city. Feel the contrast of old and new.

Explore China's ancient glory and its modernity with our top itinerary.

• The best choice for first-timers
• Discover the picturesque rural China
• The best choice for panda fans
• Be a panda keeper
• The best choice for nature lovers
• Witness the Hallelujah Mountains
• Top family itinerary
• Experience China's countryside life together
• The best choice for ones who have a Tibet dream
• Pay your respects at the pilgrim's holy palace.

Beijing Travel Guide by Month

What to eat in beijing, get inspired with some popular itineraries, more travel ideas and inspiration, sign up to our newsletter.

Be the first to receive exciting updates, exclusive promotions, and valuable travel tips from our team of experts.

Why China Highlights

Where can we take you today.

• Southeast Asia
• Japan, South Korea
• India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri lanka
• Central Asia
• Middle East
• African Safari
• Travel Agents
• Loyalty & Referral Program
• Privacy Policy

Address: Building 6, Chuangyi Business Park, 70 Qilidian Road, Guilin, Guangxi, 541004, China

《儒琴中国行》 Ruqin China Travel

Top 10 Attractions in Beijing: A Guide for First-Time Visitors

Plan your Beijing tour ? Beijing, the capital of China, is a city rich in history, culture, and modern marvels. For first-time visitors, the sheer number of attractions can be overwhelming.

To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve compiled a list of the Top 10 Attractions in Beijing . These iconic landmarks and cultural sites offer a glimpse into the heart and soul of the city, ensuring your visit is both memorable and enriching.

1. The Forbidden City: A Glimpse into Imperial China

First on our “Top 10 Attractions in Beijing” list is the Forbidden City , also known as the Palace Museum. This massive complex served as the imperial palace for 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Spanning over 180 acres, the Forbidden City is home to nearly 1,000 buildings and countless treasures. As you walk through the ancient halls and courtyards, you’ll be transported back to a time of emperors and dynasties.

Additionally, the detailed architecture and rich history make this a must-see attraction in Beijing. Be sure to explore the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the largest hall in the complex, and the Imperial Garden, a peaceful retreat within the palace walls.

2. The Great Wall of China: An Iconic Symbol of Strength

No trip to Beijing is complete without a visit to the Great Wall of China. Stretching over 13,000 miles, this ancient structure is one of the most famous landmarks in the world.

For first-time visitors, the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall is highly recommended. It’s less crowded than the more popular Badaling section and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Moreover, you can take a cable car to the top or, for the more adventurous, hike up the stone steps. Don’t forget to take plenty of photos, as the Great Wall is one of Beijing’s most iconic attractions.

3. Tiananmen Square: The Heart of Modern Beijing

Next, head to Tiananmen Square , the largest public square in the world. This vast space is surrounded by significant landmarks, including the Great Hall of the People , the National Museum of China , and the M ausoleum of Mao Zedong .

Tiananmen Square is not only a historical site but also a symbol of modern China. The square is a great place to witness the daily flag-raising ceremony, which takes place at sunrise. As you stand in this historic square, you’ll feel the weight of China’s past and its journey to the present.

4. The Temple of Heaven: A Spiritual Haven

The Temple of Heaven , a UNESCO World Heritage site, is another must-visit on your Beijing itinerary. This ancient complex was used by emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties to pray for good harvests.

The Temple of Heaven is renowned for its architectural perfection and spiritual significance. The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, with its circular design and blue-tiled roof, is the most famous building in the complex.

Additionally, the surrounding park is a popular spot for locals to practice tai chi, fly kites, and socialize. Visiting the Temple of Heaven offers a peaceful contrast to the hustle and bustle of Beijing.

5. The Summer Palace: A Royal Retreat

The Summer Palace is another of Beijing’s top tourist attractions, offering a serene escape from the city’s busy streets. This sprawling complex of lakes, gardens, and palaces served as a summer retreat for the Qing dynasty emperors.

The highlight of the Summer Palace is the Kunming Lake, where you can take a boat ride and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. Additionally, the Long Corridor, a covered walkway adorned with intricate paintings, offers a scenic route through the gardens.

Don’t miss the Marble Boat , a unique structure located at the northern end of the lake. The Summer Palace is a beautiful example of Chinese landscape design and a must-see for anyone visiting Beijing.

6. The Hutongs: Discover Beijing’s Traditional Alleys

To experience the traditional side of Beijing, a visit to the city’s hutongs is essential. Hutongs are narrow alleys lined with traditional courtyard homes, offering a glimpse into Beijing’s past.

The most famous hutong is Nanluoguxiang , known for its vibrant atmosphere, shops, and eateries. Additionally, taking a rickshaw tour through the hutongs is a great way to explore these historic neighborhoods.

As you wander through the maze of alleys, you’ll discover hidden courtyards, local markets, and a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries. The hutongs are a cultural landmark that shouldn’t be missed on your trip to Beijing.

7. The National Museum of China: A Journey Through Time

For those interested in history and culture, the National Museum of China is a top place to visit in Beijing. Located on the eastern side of Tiananmen Square, this museum houses over one million artifacts, spanning 5,000 years of Chinese history.

From ancient pottery to modern art, the museum offers a comprehensive overview of China’s rich cultural heritage. Additionally, the museum’s exhibitions are well-curated, making it easy to navigate even for first-time visitors.

Be sure to check out the ancient bronzes and jade carvings, which are among the museum’s most prized possessions. The National Museum of China is an essential stop for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of Chinese history.

8. The Lama Temple: A Spiritual Oasis

The Lama Temple , also known as Yonghe Temple, is one of the most important Tibetan Buddhist temples outside Tibet. This temple complex, with its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere, offers a unique spiritual experience in the heart of Beijing.

The highlight of the Lama Temple is the 18-meter-tall statue of Maitreya Buddha, carved from a single piece of sandalwood. Additionally, the temple’s intricate woodwork and vibrant colors make it a photographer’s dream.

As you explore the temple grounds, you’ll encounter monks chanting, incense wafting through the air, and a sense of peace that contrasts with the busy streets outside. The Lama Temple is a must-see for anyone interested in Buddhism or seeking a moment of tranquility.

9. The Beijing National Stadium (Bird’s Nest): A Modern Marvel

The Beijing National Stadium , popularly known as the Bird’s Nest, is a symbol of modern Beijing. Built for the 2008 Summer Olympics, this architectural marvel is one of the most famous sites in the city. The stadium’s design, inspired by a bird’s nest, is both innovative and visually striking.

Visitors can tour the stadium, explore the Olympic Green, and even attend events or performances held here. Additionally, the Bird’s Nest is especially beautiful when illuminated at night, making it a great spot for evening photography.

The Beijing National Stadium represents the city’s forward-looking spirit and is a must-visit for those interested in modern architecture.

10. The Ming Tombs: A Walk Through History

Lastly, the Ming Tombs are a historical attraction that offers a fascinating insight into China’s imperial past. Located about 50 kilometers north of Beijing, this site is the burial ground of 13 emperors of the Ming dynasty. The tombs are set in a beautiful valley, surrounded by mountains and lush greenery.

The most famous tomb is the Dingling Tomb , which has been excavated and opened to the public. Additionally, the Sacred Way , a pathway lined with stone statues of animals and officials, leads to the tombs and is a highlight of any visit. Exploring the Ming Tombs provides a deeper understanding of China’s dynastic history and is a rewarding day trip from Beijing.

Beijing is a city that seamlessly blends ancient history with modern innovation. From the grandeur of the Forbidden City to the tranquility of the Temple of Heaven, there is no shortage of must-see places in Beijing. Whether you’re exploring the Great Wall or discovering the city’s traditional hutongs, each of these top attractions offers a unique window into the culture and history of China. By including these sites in your itinerary, you’ll experience the best that Beijing has to offer and create memories that will last a lifetime.

As you plan your trip, keep in mind that Beijing is vast and diverse, with something to offer every traveler. By visiting these Top 10 attractions in Beijing , you’ll get a well-rounded view of the city’s highlights, making your first visit to Beijing an unforgettable adventure.

Post navigation

Previous post.

No comments yet. Why don’t you start the discussion?

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Must-see attractions in Beijing

Temple of Heaven Park

Temple of Heaven Park & Dongcheng South

An oasis of methodical Confucian design, the 267-hectare Temple of Heaven Park is unique. It originally served as a vast stage for solemn rites performed…

Summer Palace

A marvel of Chinese garden design and one of Beijing's must-see attractions, the Summer Palace was the royal retreat for emperors fleeing the suffocating…

Beihai Park

Beihai Park, inside the old Imperial City, looks much as it would have done in the 18th century when it served as Emperor Qianlong's private gardens. The…

Southeast Corner Watchtower

This immense fortress, part of the Ming City Wall Ruins Park, guarded the southeast corner of Beijing's city walls. Originally built in 1439 but repaired…

798 Art District

Contemporary art meets communist history at this thrilling enclave of international galleries installed within China's model factory complex of the 1950s…

Lama Temple

Converted from a princely residence to a lamasery in the 18th century, the Lama Temple extends through a crescendo of ever more divine halls in a whirl of…

Venerable bastions of time-keeping, the Drum Tower and its counterpart the Bell Tower were for centuries the tallest buildings in Beijing, lording it over…

Azure Clouds Temple

Though it dates back to the Yuan dynasty, this enchanting Buddhist temple complex was enlarged to its current splendor by Emperor Qianlong in 1748, adding…

Wuta Temple

If any Beijing sight can vanquish the dreaded 'temple fatigue', it's Wuta Si. This little-known gem is eminently worthy of a pilgrimage, not just for its…

White Dagoba Temple

Originally built in 1271 under the reign of Kublai Khan, the serene Miaoying Temple slumbers beneath its astonishing high dagoba, the tallest in China. A…

A highlight of a visit to the Ming Tombs is to walk the Shen Dao, or Spirit Way, a funerary avenue that plots a sombre course to Cháng Líng, the earliest…

Remodelled in 2019, UCCA remains the finest contemporary-art gallery in 798, and a contender for the best in the country. Many global art superstars have…

Houhai Lake Scenic Area

A grand sweep of willow-lined waterways enclosed by invitingly maze-like hutong lanes, this trio of lakes is one of Beijing's best-loved outdoor spots,…

Established according to feng shui in the cradle of Tianshou Mountain (天寿山, Tiānshòu Shān), this auspicious swath of nature was walled off by the Ming to…

Fragrant Hills Park

A great swath of Beijing's Western Hills (Xīshān) was once an imperial pleasure resort, acres of undulating pine-cypress forest peppered with temples,…

Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests

The crowning glory of the Temple of Heaven is the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, its triple-eaved roof canopy of glazed blue tiles reflecting its…

Round Altar

The present build dating to around 1540, this is the business end of the Temple of Heaven. Here on this open-air, raised platform (a circle within a…

Confucius Temple & Imperial College

An incense stick’s toss away from the Lama Temple, China’s second-largest Confucian temple is a haven of scholarly calm and contemplation. Come to wander…

Long Corridor

Stretching for 728m along the north shore of Kunming Lake, the open-air Long Corridor is one of the premier sights of the Summer Palace. One can imagine…

Imperial Vault of Heaven

Inside the Echo Wall, this ornate building was merely a storeroom, used to keep the spirit tablets of the gods and other materials used for the ceremonies…

It's no coincidence that the most magnificent of the Ming tombs bears more than a passing resemblance to the Forbidden City. It was commissioned by the…

Divine Merit Stele Pavilion

Along the Spirit Way before you reach the pairs of stone guardians, this glorious pavilion contains a stele thought to be the largest in China, mounted on…

17-Arch Bridge

Connecting the eastern shore of Kunming Lake to South Lake Island, this is the largest bridge in the Summer Palace at 150m long. It was built during the…

White Dagoba

Topping Jade Islet (琼岛; Qióngdǎo), the 36m-high Tibetan-style White Dagoba was built in 1651 by the first Qing emperor to honour a visit by the Dalai Lama…

Faurschou Foundation

Although this privately owned Danish gallery is a relative newcomer, it has racked up an enviable showreel of exhibitions and retrospectives since 2011,…

Nine Dragon Screen

To the west of Western Elysium, set back from the lakeshore, is this 5m-high, 27m-long spirit wall emblazoned with writing and coiled dragons, picked out…

Old Summer Palace

Shattered ruins are all that remain of the 'Garden of Perfection and Light', once known as the 'Versailles of the East' for its profound beauty, even…

Cathedral of Our Saviour

Formerly known as Beitang, this gothic church (c 1897) is Beijing's most exemplary, with a pair of 31m-high bell towers looking resplendent (read: gaudy)…

Prince Gong’s Mansion

The sprawling residence of Prince Gong (1833–1898), half-brother of the Xianfeng emperor, is most notable for its marvellous gardens, which feature…

White Cloud Temple

White Cloud Temple is an active, vast and fascinating maze of halls, shrines and brightly painted immortals, tended by Taoist monks with their hair…

Dongyue Temple

Dedicated to the Eastern Peak (Tài Shān) of China’s five Taoist mountains, this morbid Taoist shrine is an unsettling, albeit entertaining, place of…

Ming City Wall Ruins Park

This wistful stretch of brick and stone is all that remains (besides a couple of other denuded nubs) of Beijing's once formidable city walls, girding the…

Great Bell Temple

Despite being stranded along the North 3rd Ring Rd, this Qing-era temple is well worth a diversion to marvel at its centrepiece, the humongous Yongle Bell…

Fayuan Temple

Infused with an air of sleepy reverence, this working Buddhist temple is one of Beijing's most evocative. Perhaps it's the ancient Song dynasty pines,…

CCTV Headquarters

Known locally as Da Kucha (大裤衩, Big Pants), the 234m-tall CCTV Tower is an architectural fantasy that appears to defy gravity. Designed by Rem Koolhaas…

Wanshou Temple

This tranquil, little-visited temple was originally consecrated for the storage of Buddhist texts. Its name echoes the Summer Palace’s Longevity Hill …

Song Qingling's Former Residence

Set in well-tended gardens on the north shore of Houhai Lake, this is the mansion of Madam Song, venerated by the Chinese as the wife of Sun Yatsen, first…

The restrained, grey-stone edifice of the Bell Tower (Zhonglou) is arguably even more charming than its resplendent other half, the Drum Tower (Gulou),…

Of all the Ming tombs, this is the only one to have been excavated, and visitors can descend into the enormous burial chambers of the Wanli Emperor (1563…

798 Art Factory

This cathedral-like Bauhaus space, ceilings emblazoned with red Maoist slogans, makes for the quintessential 798 photograph whether or not an exhibition…

More destinations you need to see

• 1 Day Tours
• 2 Days Packages
• 3 Days Sightseeing
• 4 Days Best Beijing
• 6 Days Beijing Xi'an
• 6 Days Beijing Shanghai

Forbidden City

Summer palace, tiananmen square, temple of heaven.

• Peking Opera
• Acrobatic Show
• Beijing Roast Duck
• Old Hutongs
• Pandas in Beijing Zoo

Top 10 Places to Visit in Beijing

Beijing is a mixture of both modern delights and traditional legacies of China. As a 3,000-year-old city, it retains so many historical places to visit such as the world-famous Great Wall, the grand imperial palaces and gardens. Here are the top 10 places to visit in Beijing to give a fast reference for your tour.

Badaling Great Wall

Prince Gong's Mansion

Wangfujing street.

Beijing Zoo

Yonghe temple, you may like.

• The Top 10 Things To...

16 Must-Visit Attractions in Beijing

Travel Expert

China’s bustling capital of 21.5 million people is constantly contradicting itself. Ancient and modern, busy and serene, grey and green. You may get lost and you may get tired during a sightseeing trip to Beijing, but you will certainly not get bored.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Beijing, China’s enigmatic capital city, is packed to bursting with world-class attractions, be they historic palaces , beautiful royal gardens, solemn temples, bustling markets or modern art enclaves. Here, we recommend the top 15 things to do and see in Beijing, from traditional tourist favourites to quirky alternative sights.

The Great Wall

Architectural Landmark

One of the most instantly recognisable landmarks in the world, the Great Wall is believed to have been built as early as the seventh century BC, although the majority of the existing wall was constructed during the Ming dynasty (1368-1644). The most famous part was built by Qin Shi Huang (the first emperor of the Qin dynasty) from 220 to 206 BC. The whole wall is 21,196 kilometres (13,171 miles) long and covers the ancient northern borders of China. It was built to protect the country against invasions from the northern nomadic groups of the Eurasian Steppe. The most popular sections to visit include Badaling, Jiayu Pass and Shanhai Pass, but if you want more excitement, the rugged and breathtaking Simatai section of the wall is definitely the one to head for.

Panjiayuan Antique Market

798 art district.

Art Gallery, Building, Museum, Store

Saturated with local and international galleries, arts centres and countless cool restaurants, shops and bars, 798 Art Zone is arguably China’s most famous contemporary art district. It began life as a sprawling factory complex that made military equipment and components for the Communist cause. Most of the original buildings remain, giving this modern cultural zone – one of Beijing’s trendiest areas – a distinctly dystopian edge.

Become a Culture Tripper!

Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $1,200 on our unique trips..

See privacy policy .

Yiheyuan (Summer Palace)

Historical Landmark

The Hutongs

An afternoon wandering around the hutongs (narrow alleys that snake between historic courtyard housing complexes) is the best way to appreciate the beauty of old Beijing. Hutongs once dominated Beijing, but owing to aggressive urban development initiatives most have been removed. A good handful still remain around Houhai Lake and Gulou Dajie (Drum Tower Street). An afternoon would be well spent walking or cycling through the unique collection of cafes, restaurants and shops, especially around the kooky Nanluoguxiang shopping street. Be sure to stop and appreciate the ancient drum and bell towers, Gulou and Zhonglou.

The Forbidden City and Palace Museum

Without doubt Beijing’s most famous attraction, the Forbidden City – which presides over the notorious Tiananmen Square – is a sprawling palace complex that was home to the emperors of China’s Ming and Qing dynasties until imperialism was abolished in 1912. The great palace, dating back to 1406, exemplifies traditional Chinese architectural styles. Some of the palatial buildings now serve as the Palace Museum, which is worth ducking into to browse more than 1 million valuable Chinese art pieces, such as paintings, ceramics, jewellery and jade. Be sure to bring your passport when you visit as foreigners won’t get in without one.

Wangfujing Snack Street

Market, Chinese

Tian Tan (Temple of Heaven)

Park, Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark

Constructed between 1406 and 1420, Tian Tan , otherwise known as the Temple of Heaven, is a complex of impressive palatial temples where the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties once prayed for a good harvest. The grand and solemn buildings that make up the complex – namely the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, the Imperial Vault of Heaven and the Circular Mound Altar – can all be toured, giving visitors an insight into the ancient religious ceremonies of Daoism. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, commissioned by the same emperor responsible for Beijing’s Forbidden City, is bursting with colourful and symbolic imagery. Go check it out. Your camera will thank you.

Red Gate Gallery

Art Gallery

Dine in Quan Ju De

Restaurant, Chinese

Established in 1864, Quan Ju De has a reputation for serving the best peking roast duck in China. It monitors the breeding method of the ducks very closely and adheres to traditional cooking processes to guarantee quality and taste – only using ducks which are fewer than 100 days old and weigh more than five kilograms (11 pounds). The ducks are roasted as they have been for decades in a big doorless oven fuelled by the wood of fruit trees, turning out impeccably caramelised and crisp – those with superior palates may be able to taste a subtle fruity flavour in the meat.

Yonghe (Lama) Temple

Buddhist Temple, Monastery

Houhai Lake

Natural Feature

Part of a complex of the three northernmost ornamental lakes in Beijing known as Schichahai, Houhai was built for the pleasures of the royal Yuan family (1271-1368). Today, it is buzzing with activity from early morning to midnight, with street-side haircuts, cheap pencil portraits, al-fresco jam sessions and electric boat rides offered during the day, evolving into loud karaoke bars, fragrant street snacks and neon headgear at night. The streets around the adjoining Qianhai Lake get particularly packed on evenings and weekends, so approach with caution if you’re not a fan of crowds. Explore the majestic Gulou (drum tower) and Zhonglou (bell tower), just a few steps east, while you’re in the neighbourhood.

Jingshan Park

Situated at the geographical centre of Beijing, Jingshan Park served as a royal garden and hunting ground during the Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties, complete with fruit trees, pretty pavilions and ornate palaces. It was opened to the public in 1928, providing 57 acres (23 hectares) of landscaped gardens and traditional Chinese architecture, but its unrivalled views are the real reason to visit. Take the short climb up Jingshan Hill and find yourself at the highest point in otherwise flat Beijing, a unique vantage point which looks out over the north gate of the Forbidden City.

Parkview Green

Shopping Mall

Parkview Green is a Chinese mall like no other. The winner of multiple green architecture awards, this forward-thinking lifestyle complex sits beside historic Ritan Park and Beijing’s tree-lined diplomatic zone, and it’s packed with shopping, dining and contemporary art. Peruse boutiques and look for touchable sculptures in between exploring the art gallery, art museum and in-mall interactive offerings. Those who really can’t get enough should consider staying at the super-chic on-site boutique art hotel.

Hongqiao (Pearl Market)

Tiananmen square.

Park, Building

Tiananmen Square is located right beside the Forbidden City, known for its incredible political significance. This huge space is home to the Monument to the People’s Heroes, the Great Hall of the People and the National Museum of China, but the highlight is undoubtedly the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong, which houses the former leader’s embalmed body in its crystal coffin. Admission is free (though bear in mind no bags or cameras are permitted inside), but long queues form very quickly each day, so aim to get there early. Recommended by Taylor J. Castelo Brancochang

This article is an updated version of a story created by Katherine Lee.

The Best Hotels to Book in Beijing’s Central Business District

The 10 Best Experiences in Beijing

The Best Hotels in Beijing, China

9 Recommended Tours in Beijing

Coronavirus: Chinese People Worldwide Share Their Thoughts on the Outbreak

The 8 Best Day Trips From Beijing

The Best Things to See and Do in Beijing in Winter

A Guide to Beijing's Craft Beer Scene

Stay Curious: Experience Beijing From Your Living Room

The Best Places To Stay in 798 Art District, Beijing

The 17 Best Unique and Unusual Things To Do in Beijing

Culture Trip Summer Sale

Save up to $1,200 on our unique small-group trips! Limited spots.

• Post ID: 387462
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

National Geographic content straight to your inbox—sign up for our popular newsletters here

The Palace Museum in Beijing, China, is a former imperial palace also known as the Forbidden City.

Discover the Best of Beijing

Experience China's massive capital city with these top 10 tips.

Beijing’s rich culture and powerful atmosphere offer travelers a sensory feast.

Archaeological Site

A must-see for history buffs, the Ming Tombs scenic area contains the mausoleums of 13 of the 16 emperors who ruled China during the Ming Dynasty from 1368 to 1644. Three of the 13 mausoleums are open for visitors and offer an intriguing glimpse into Chinese history, grand Chinese architecture, and the cultural importance of ancestor worship. The Ming Tombs are located close to some entry points to the Great Wall, which makes it easy to combine the two sites during the same day trip.

UNESCO Site

The Forbidden City, today also known as the Palace Museum , was the home of Ming and Qing Dynasty emperors for 500 years until 1911. Located in the very heart of Beijing, the Forbidden City is a remarkable portrayal of Chinese history, culture, civilization, and architecture. The Palace Museum is the world’s largest palace complex and is said to have almost 1,000 buildings and 9,999 rooms.

Cultural Experience

To get a glimpse of a Beijing before its magnificent glass buildings and skyscrapers, head to Gulou Street to explore one of the city’s remaining traditional neighborhoods, the hutong s . Hutongs are areas with narrow lanes and single story courtyard houses, but the city’s rapid modernization has left only a few of these historic neighborhoods standing. Go back in time and explore the hutongs around the Drum and Bell Towers, two landmark buildings that were used for telling time since the 13th century.

Best Day Trip

Even though the Summer Palace is located just 15 kilometers outside of central Beijing, a visit there is like entering another world. Consisting of palaces, lakes, and gardens, the Summer Palace was an imperial garden built by the Qing Dynasty for royal families to rest and entertain. It is the largest and best preserved imperial garden still in existence in China.

Most Iconic Place

The Great Wall of China is certainly not to be missed during your visit to Beijing. More than 27,000 people visit on an average day, which is an excellent reason for considering the less famous entry points, such as Jinshanling and Simatai . Some sections offer unique hiking opportunities with breathtaking landscapes of the surrounding mountains with the deserted wall snaking mysteriously into the horizon. For an experience you’ll never forget, consider camping out for a night at one of the watchtowers.

For an endless choice of restaurants and bars, visit Sanlitun in Beijing’s modern Chaoyang District. Beijing’s first bar community, Sanlitun Bar Street , is located in Sanlitun, which over the years led the area to become the city’s center for shopping, food, and nightlife. Sanlitun is particularly enjoyable in the warmer months with its numerous rooftop restaurants.

Historic Site

The Temple of Heaven is a collection of stunning ancient sacrificial buildings where emperors came to worship heaven and pray for good harvest. It is considered the most holy of Beijing’s imperial temples, but today welcomes visitors to enjoy the vast green grounds covering an area larger than the Forbidden City. The best time to visit is early morning as the park fills with locals socializing and doing morning exercises.

• Nat Geo Expeditions

Local Quirk

Take an early morning stroll in one of Beijing’s many public parks, and you’ll get a glimpse of the healthy morning routines of China’s senior citizens. Witness everything from people practicing tai chi, playing badminton, walking backwards, and flying kites to dancing, singing, clapping, and exercising on gym equipment fixed to the park grounds. Many locals also have pet birds that they bring along in cages to socialize. The best park to get inspiration for healthy morning habits is the Temple of Heaven.

Neighborhood to Explore

Shichahai is a famous scenic area just north of the Forbidden City consisting of three lakes and loads of entertainment. It used to be the imperial back garden as well as the center of Beijing’s most important commercial activities, but is today a charming area surrounded with historic sites, hutongs (traditional Beijing alleys and residences), temples, restaurants, and bars.

Know Before You Go

The biggest challenge international travelers face in Beijing is the language barrier. English isn’t widely spoken, so it might be helpful to write down a few basic words and phrases to carry with you in your pocketbook or smartphone. When taking a taxi, make sure to have the names and addresses of your hotel and destinations written in Mandarin to show the driver. Beijing is generally a very safe city, but as you would anywhere, be mindful of valuables and pick-pockets in crowded areas. And do note that many international websites including social media sites are not accessible in China.

Become a subscriber and support our award-winning editorial features, videos, photography, and much more.

For as little as $2/mo.

Related Topics

You may also like.

Want to see the best of Turkey? Try one of these 7 incredible train journeys

6 of Europe’s best secret beaches, from Croatia to France

10 of the best places to stay in Rome, from 15th-century palazzos to kitsch hotels

How to visit Olympic National Park

Paella villages, cycle paths, and wetland boating on a slow tour of the Valencia region

• Environment
• Paid Content

History & Culture

• History & Culture
• Mind, Body, Wonder
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Nat Geo Home
• Attend a Live Event
• Book a Trip
• Inspire Your Kids
• Shop Nat Geo
• Visit the D.C. Museum
• Learn About Our Impact
• Support Our Mission
• Advertise With Us
• Customer Service
• Renew Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Work at Nat Geo
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

24 of the Best Things to do in Beijing, China

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: November 13, 2023

Looking for the very best  things to do in Beijing  to make the most of your stay.  Whether you are passing through and taking advantage of the 144-hour visa-free transit policy or  visiting China  Beijing a part of your itinerary, this guide showcases all the things to do in Beijing plus tips and advice for places to say.

We show you how to get around Beijing, where to stay and how to avoid Internet censorship.

Table of Contents

Best Things to Do in Beijing

Follow our interactive map to see all the things to do in Beijing plus their locations. Get your interactive map of our Beijing Itinerary

1. Great Wall of China

There is no doubt that the star attraction for people visiting and looking for things to do in Beijing is the  Great Wall of China . It’s a wonder that has fascinated the world for centuries.

Badaling Great Wall

There are several different sections of the Great Wall to visit in China, but the  Badaling Great Wall  is the closest to Beijing at only 70 km. This section of the wall is where the majority of Chinese tourists visit  the Great Wall.

The Badaling Great Wall is beautiful and impressive, but expect large crowds (mostly locals and Chinese tourists though so it is a very authentic experience). That Badaling Wall is accessible by local bus, tourist bus. Line 877 from Deshengmen or tourist bus line 1 from Qianmen.

Mutianyu Great Wall

The Mutianyu Great Wall is another hour farther from Beijing, but you will see far fewer crowds at this section of the wall. But it is just as impressive and stunning (if not more). Mutianyu isn’t as easy to access and it is recommended to hire a driver or take a tour.

Search what Great Wall tours  are best for you. These are easily canceled should you change your mind as long as it is within 24 hours of departure. And they can be easily booked last minute as  Get Your Guide  sets aside several last-minute tickets.

2. Forbidden City

It is the number one attraction in and with good reason. Built in the 1400s it was the Imperial Palace of the Ming and Qing Dynasties,  the Forbidden City  housed the ruling Emperors and their households for 500 years. It spans 180 acres housing a whopping 980 buildings and over 8000 rooms.

Only the Emperor and his subjects stepped foot in the city walls until 1925 when it was turned into a museum after the fall of the final Emperor.  Watch The Last Emperor  now .

It takes at a minimum of two hours to tour the Forbidden City, but it can easily be enjoyed all day. This is something you don’t want to miss when you are planning out all your things to do in Beijing. It is  best to take a tour  of the Forbidden City to understand what the sections and rooms are.

You can  book skip the line tickets in advance that can be easily canceled within 24 hours. It also includes a full day trip to Tiananmen Square, Temple of Heaven, and the Summer Palace. If you are on a time schedule, this is a great way to see the top attractions in Beijing in one day. You can book here  Cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

3. Tiananmen Square

Tiananmen Square is often toured at the same time as the Forbidden City because of its close proximity. It is the largest square in the world covering 100 acres of land and there are many things to see. If you arrive at the square in the morning, you may catch the flag-raising and then watch the flag-lowering ceremony in the evening.

At the center of the Square, you’ll see Monument to the People ’ s Heroes standing proud. You will also find Chairman Mao’s tomb is located in Tiananmen Square. There is also the National Museum of China, The Great Hall of the People, the People’s Monument, the Railway Museum, and Tiananmen Gate (Gate of Heavenly Peace). Be sure to go into the gates for a beautiful view overlooking Tiananmen Square. Tiananmen Square houses the only two ancient city gates left in Beijing.

4. Beijing Hutong Tour

Located in the Sichahong District of Beijing, visiting the Hutongs of Beijing is a must. The Hutongs were nearly destroyed to make way for skyscrapers and newer developments, but they were finally spared and the last of the Hutongs are sitting on protected land waiting for tourists to explore.

Get lost wandering the streets. They weave their way to the lake and there are many eateries, hotels, and museums scattered throughout the hutongs. Visiting the Hutongs was our favourite of all the attractions Beijing and not many people really know about them.

5. Rickshaw Ride

If you really want to see a lot of the Hutongs, a rickshaw tour is a must. There are very popular and you can book in advance or you can hire one at the lake or on the main street. Step back in time and travel the traditional way by pedal power as you take in the daily life of these historic alleyways.

• Book a Rickshaw tour  through the Hutongs to feel what it was like centuries ago and for a fast overview of the area.

6. Back Sea – Houhai

A man-made lake in Beijing, Houhai (or Back Sea) is a picturesque lake that is very popular among locals. This artificial lake is surrounded by shops and tea houses. You can take boat tours or simply stroll along the walkway taking in the energetic atmosphere. From here you can easily reach Pipe Street, the Drum and Bell Tower and easily explore the hutongs. Guided Tours are available here!

7. Pipe Street  – Yandai Xiejie

Walk along Pipe Street for shopping and snacking Beijing Food. Pipe Street was named so because it is shaped like a pipe. This is the busiest section of the Hutongs with snacks and thrift stores lining the street.

Known as Yandai Xiejie Street in Beijing, it is one of the oldest Hutongs in the city of Beijing. It is located just steps away from the Houhai (or Back Sea). Pipe Street is a busy and congested walking street, but a must-visit when you are exploring the hutongs.

8. Temple of Heaven

The Temple of Heaven is a wonderful stop in Beijing covering a massive area of 2,700,000 square meters. Take a walk through the complex to see one of the most iconic buildings in Beijing. It is sectioned into three different areas and takes at least a half day to explore.

The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests (Qiniandian) is the most iconic building within the Temple of Heaven, a circular structure with a triple-gabled roof, located in the northern part of the park. Emperors would come here to pray for bountiful harvests. It is renowned for its magnificent architecture and symbolic design, embodying the connection between heaven and earth, a central tenet of Chinese cosmology.

The Imperial Vault of Heaven (Huangqiongyu) is a smaller circular building enclosed by a smooth circular wall known as the Echo Wall because whispers can be heard clearly from one end to the other due to the acoustics. Inside the vault are the tablets of the gods for the annual worship ceremony. It is connected to the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests by the Vermilion Steps Bridge, a raised walkway that ascends from the Vault to the Hall.

The Circular Mound Altar (Yuanqiutan) is an empty circular platform on three levels of marble stones, located in the southern part of the complex. It is used for the Heaven Worship Ceremony during the winter solstice. The design of the altar is based on numerology; for instance, the top tier consists of nine rings of nine stones, significant because the number nine was historically associated with the Emperor.

Choose from 1-day tours of Beijing including Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, and more including lunch – Book tours here and receive easy cancellation within 24 hours of experience and last-minute bookings.

9. Lama Temple (Yonghe Temple)

The Lama Temple was one of our favorite temples to visit in Beijing. Built in 1694, it was an official residence for Eunuchs of the Qing Dynasty. Today the Lama Temple is a functioning school of Tibetan Buddhism.

Lama Temple was closed for 32 years after the Cultural Revolution, but it re-opened in 1981. Monks study and take care of the grounds as tourists come to see the massive sandalwood Buddha standing 18 meters (69 feet) high. The Buddha holds the Guinness Book of World Records for the tallest Buddha’s carved from a single tree.

10. Jingshan Park 

This is a pleasant park to visit where locals take badminton lessons, practice tai chi or simply relax in the  bonsai tree gardens. Tourists frequent Jingshan Park to climb to the top of the mountain for an overhead view of the Forbidden City.

The mountain was made from the soil taken from the moat creating a 45.7 meter high (150 feet) artificial mound that was previously home to the Imperial Gardens. It is worth the walk up the steps to view the rooftops and take in the Panoramic views of Beijing.

11. Silk Street

This shopping mall used to be an open-air street filled with markets. Silk Street is located in the lively Chaoyang District of Beijing and is not to be missed. The vendors have been moved indoors, but it is no less fun to visit! If you want to buy immaculate knock-off handbags, watches, or sunglasses, this is the place to come.

Be sure to bring your wallet and be ready to barter. You can walk away with bargains more than half their asking price if you know what you’re doing. Silk Street goods are considered some of the best and most authentic fakes of name brands in the world.

Another popular market to visit in Beijing is the Panjiayuan Antiques Market.

12. Wangfujing Street Night Market

Wangfujing Street is a busy bustling street, especially at night. During the day it is a popular shopping district but at night it turns into a very busy market. This is the place where you’ll see the weird and wacky of Beijing. Sea horses, scorpions and starfish are served on skewers. Some scorpions are still squirming and it’s not for the faint of heart. (it’s also very sad)

We couldn’t bring ourselves to eat anything and instead opted for dumplings at one of the many food stalls. But for a taste of the odd side of Beijing, this is an interesting visit. You’ll definitely be dealing with crowds and remember to bargain for your shopping.

13. Bell and Drum Tower

These two structures stand above the Hutongs to represent the symbol of the Old City. You can walk up for an overview of the area and see the largest and heaviest bell in China.

Built across the square is another tower standing 47 meters (157 feet) high containing one very large drum.

The drum and bell towers were used to tell time for centuries but was abolished after the cultural revolution. But in 2001 the drum and bell rang out the new year and have been used each year since to bring blessing to the people.

14. Bird’s Nest Stadium – National Stadium

The Beijing National Stadium was designed for the 2008 Olympics and is worth a visit to admire the architecture created by Swiss firm Herzog & de Meuron to represent a bird’s nest.

Olympic Park not only houses Bird’s Nest Stadium, but the surrounding architecture is just as impressive with the Water Cube (Cube Watercentre). If you visit at night, the Water Cube lights up with a gorgeous light display. The Water Cube aquatic center is open to the public so you can go for a swim!

Perhaps you may want to splurge and stay at the 7-star hotel and condo complex-shaped as a Dragon’s Head across the street. Football events and concerts take place at Olympic Park but you can  take an architectural tour of Beijing  to enjoy the modern designs of this growing city.

Visit the Ming Tombs

Visiting the Ming Tombs near Beijing is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the grandeur and solemnity of China’s imperial past. This UNESCO World Heritage site, known as the Ming Dynasty Tombs, is a collection of mausoleums built by the emperors of the Ming Dynasty.

The Ming Tombs serve as a testament to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), which is considered one of the greatest eras of orderly government and social stability in human history. The site encapsulates over two centuries of cultural and architectural evolution.

The approach to the tombs is via the Sacred Way, a path lined with stone statues of guardians that include animals and court officials. The layout and design of the tombs are guided by the principles of Feng Shui, intended to ensure a harmonious balance with nature.

Located just about 50 kilometers from Beijing, the Ming Tombs are an easy day trip, often combined with a visit to the Great Wall of China. This proximity makes it a convenient addition to any travel itinerary in the region.

15. Peking Duck

No trip to Beijing would be complete without tasting its most famous dish Peking Roast Duck. Peking Duck is a roast duck that is sliced to perfection and served at your table.

Hua’s Restaurant  is one of the premier places to sample Peking Duck with four locations throughout the city. Even if you are not a fan of duck, Peking Roast Duck is something you must sample once.

Serving of the Peking Roast Duck is an extravaganza as the chef brings out a large duck cooked to perfection and then slices it up with precision and artistry. You are then shown how to eat it by creating a tortilla-like sandwich with all the fixings. I don’t normally eat duck, but when in Beijing, I always eat their famous roast duck.

16. Beijing Hot Pot

Food glorious food. When in Beijing, delve into the food scene. A visit wouldn’t be complete without a hot pot meal.

17. Learn Calligraphy 

Set up a traditional Chinese Calligraphy Class. Calligraphy is offered at many places in Beijing and it is a relaxing way to immerse in Chinese culture.

We did our class at a museum where professional artists practice their skills. I admit, I think we had special privileges because we were in Beijing shooting a video for the 100 hour Visa, but you can book it easly.

Just ask your hotel concierge. Our hotel offered classes at the  Sandalwood Boutique Hotel  hotel in the Hutong district. It was an excellent place to stay right in the heart of the action walking distance to many top Beijing attractions.

18. World Tourism Festival

The International Tourism Festival is an event that has been going for 20 years and celebrates the tourism industry in China. It brings delegates from around the world showcasing tourism from their own country. It is definitely a good will festival that brings countries together.

19. Chinese Royal Gastronomy Museum

A restaurant extravaganza with fine dining, Dumpling making, dinner shows and a museum dedicated to food. You can also learn to make your own dumplings and then while they cook up your masterpiece, you can watch a traditional show and have your dinner!

20. Tai Chi in Beihai Park

Beihai Park is Beijing’s largest park and there are plenty of things to do here. A former Imperial Garden and Winter Palace of the Ming Dynasty. Beihai Park is located on a lake surrounding the beautiful Jade Flowery Islet.

Covering 171 acres, 69 hectares there are plenty of places to explore in the most important Imperial Garden in China. Not to miss attractions include, Nine-Dragon Screen, 5 Dragons Pavilion and the White Dagoba on the island. We took a Tai Chi Class in Beihai Park and found the locals to be very friendly.

21. The Central Business District

Marvel at the five-star hotels scattered among skyscrapers, high-end shopping, and fine dining.

There are walking streets, shopping streets and malls to explore. It’s not quite as impressive as Shanghai or Hong Kong, but the CBD of Beijing is worth a stop for a bit of shopping and dining.

22. Summer Palace

Located 8 km north of the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace is a good place to visit if you love Imperial Gardens. Also know as the Imperial Garden, the Summer Palace was completely destroyed in 1860. But it was rebuilt in 1888. Proving its resilience, it was destroyed again in 1900, but once again, rebuilt in 1012.

Spend a day exploring The Summer Palace and the Imperial Garden as you stroll through Pavilions and hallways. The Summer Palace is one of the top attractions in Beijing that is not to be missed. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest Imperial Garden in China, it is a great addition to you Beijing itinerary. .

If you love seeing Imperial Gardens, Suzhuou is an amazing city filled with Chinese Gardens.

23. Take a Tofu Workshop

I honestly can’t remember where we took this class. I’ve searched the Internet and can’t find it. But our tofu workshop was a day trip from Beijing. It wasn’t in the centre and turned out to be further out of town near the Badaling Great Wall.

But there is a school in Beijing where you can learn to make bean curd (tofu) from start to finish. It was very cool to see how one of China’s staple dishes is made and we had our hand in grinding the soybeans to boiling the bean curd to finally eating and enjoying our hard work.

25. 798 Art District

For something a little different visit the 798 Art District of Beijing. This interesting area of Beijing has been turned into a gathering place and park at the site of an old electronics factory. It is very much an out of the way place but you can book tours to the Art Zone through Viator and TripAdvisor.

It’s worth seeing the contrast of the old German-style factory displaying contemporary modern art. The 798 Art District feels like the Raw Temple of Berlin than a Chinese City district with graffiti lining the walls, different art galleries and shops. If you are looking for something different in Beijing, 798 Art District is worth exploring.

About Beijing

Beijing is a massive city with a population of 21 million people . It is the capital of China filled with everything from ancient monuments to modern skyscrapers. The host of the 2008 Summer Olympics, Beijing will once again be welcoming the world in 2022 for the Winter Games.

There are many direct flights to Beijing from cities around the world including Toronto, London, New York , and Sydney. Beijing is filled with UNESCO World Heritage Sites, World Wonders and some of the best shopping in Asia.

Where to Stay in Beijing

There are many neighborhoods to stay in Beijing. But the three main that we recommend are near the Hutongs;  Shichahai Sandalwood Hotel  is an authentic hotel set in a former palace.

Downtown in the Business District right in the heart of skyscrapers and shopping malls. There is a beautiful  Ritz Carlton.  in the area and you can never go wrong with The Ritz!

Near the Forbidden City in the Dongcheng District an excellent choice hotels Beijing to be near the sites and plenty of dining options. You can check out reviews and book hotels on  TripAdvisor , Beijing.

We stayed in this area a few years ago and loved it. It was walking distance to many attractions and there were many things to do in Beijing at night here.

Getting Around Beijing

Beijing is a huge city that is spread out over 16,807.8 km 2  (6,489.5 sq mi) Traffic can be heavy and most people do not speak English, so we suggest hiring guides to take you to the top sights of Beijing.

Get Your Guide  is a great tour company that offers many day tours within and around Beijing.

There is no Uber or Lyft and the Chinese ride sharing is complicated without a local number and being able to speak Mandarin. But Taxis are cheap.

The subway is easy to navigate and is very reasonable, but it is crowded and closes at 11:00 pm. Cost is cheap at 3-7 Yuan

• Tip: Keep a business card from your hotel so you can give it to taxis to get home at night. If you need to go somewhere, have the Concierge at your hotel write down the address in Mandarin for you.

Taking the subway in Beijing is very easy. If you are going to a specific tourist attraction, ask your concierge or at the hotel desk what stop you need to go to. Once you know the subway stop you need, it’s very easy.

• Go to a machine, and choose the stop you want. Don’t worry, you can choose English to navigate the menu.
• Before you go to the station ask your concierge or look it up on Google to see what subway stop you need to get off at for your Beijing attraction of choice. Then look to see what the final stop is on the line that your stop is on. . That will help you know what line to get on once you get into the subway.
• And then when you get to the platform, look for the final stop to know which side to stand on.
• When you click the destination you want, it will ask for cash.
• Note:  Be sure to have small change as the machines only give back small denominations so you could be stuck with a lot of coins.
• There are money changers in some subways but I wouldn’t count on that. And they usually only have small change so if you have large bills, you will get a handful of coins.
• Make sure to keep your card handy while on the subway as you will have to swipe yourself in and out.

The subway charges by distance and is very cheap.

• Check out these alternative things to do in Taipei

Plan Your Trip to Beijing

• 1  USD  = 6.92 Yuan – Check  XE Currency Converter  for updated conversion.
• The best time of year to visit Beijing  is in September or October. Pollution is low and the weather is very comfortable.
• To chat with anyone in China, WeChat is the preferred social network.
• Wifi is easily accessible at hotels, coffee shops and places like McDonald’s.
• Get your  Lonely Planet Pocket Travel guide  to Beijing for quick reference and tips

You cannot access Google or social channels like Facebook or Twitter. We used KnowRoaming SIM cards on our phones and it worked better than our VPN on our computer.

The KnowRoaming SIM  is hosted outside the country giving you access to Gmail and all other social channels with ease. PlanetD readers receive 50% credit when ordering with promo Code DDSave50:  Visit KnowRoaming for details. 

We know many don’t travel alone, so it’s great to have two phones working overseas. How many times have you gotten lost and need to text one another? If you don’t use KnowRoaming, you must use a VPN. It is impossible otherwise to access your accounts.

Like this post on the top things to do in Beijing? Why not Save it on Pinterest fir Future Reference!

Read More: China and City Guides

• 13 Things to do in Nanjing China – A Complete Guide to the Ancient Capital
• 25 Things to do in Suzhou China – All You Need to Know Before you Go

24 Top Things to Do in Shanghai, China

• Things to do in Hong Kong – The Complete Travel Guide to Hong Kong
• Things to do in China – Must See Attractions and Places to Visit

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

26 Things to do in Suzhou China – All You Need to Know Before you Go

13 Things to do in Nanjing China – A Complete Guide to the Ancient Capital

About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

Join thousands of others who get our monthly updates!

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

12 thoughts on “24 of the Best Things to do in Beijing, China”

I loved my 4 day visit to Beijing and have been wanting to go back ever since! Reading these 24 ideas has made me super eager to explore more of the city, thank you!

The Beijing city of China is a great place. That’s why I‘m planning to visit it in the month of May through a tour service. As a girl to travel alone it will be painful for me and I need guidance also. One of my friends recommended me a tour operator called Greatwall Trekclub. So I have prepared in my queue after hearing its criteria and service.

I would love to visit Beijing once and to have a walk on the Great wall of china. Thanks for sharing.

I absolutely love your posts! Even tho I dont travel much I love reading about raw experience of others, its wonderful.

I never knew that one could visit any country without a passport for certain amount of hours or days. Interesting.

This is perfect information since most airlines from China offer lower ticket prices from the US to Asia now. It will be good to spend a few days in Beijing and walk on the Great Wall and set foot on Forbidden City. Of course to try the authentic Chinese food like Peking Duck and the hot pot.

Thanks for all of the great information. We probably won’t make it to Beijing for another year or 2 unfortunately. Love the information about the Calligraphy, Tofu and Tai Chi classes. These interactive things are always our favorite while traveling. Also, the practical information about the internet, where to stay and getting around are so helpful! Thanks again!

I love Beijing. We’ve visited twice now and there’s still so much more to see. It’s such an easy city to get around and the people are so friendly. I think my favourite is probably the Summer Palace. So peaceful in such a busy city.

We have friends living in Bejing at the moment and are planning to visit, this is a great list we’ll def use! Thanks for posting

I’d love to visit China someday and expand my mind and blog about it as a temporary travel blogger. But I’m afraid to go there for now because someone famous talked greasy about them a while back.

It’s so great to know you are a writer that cares about the information you provide. This is smartly done and well-written in my opinion.

Very informative! Thanks for sharing this to us 🙂

Ultimate Beijing Bucket List (101 Things to Do in Beijing China)

• Asia / Beijing / China / In the City

There is so much to see and do in Beijing that if you are visiting this city for the first time or the even the tenth time, it can feel overwhelming (and we mean that in the best of ways). The city is a constant whirl of motion, and it is in the midst of an intense period of growth.

Prepare to have your tastebuds delighted with the most delicious food you have ever tasted (don’t be afraid to try something new!). Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for amazing architecture, both old and new. And brace yourself for a cacophony of unfamiliar sounds and smells that fill this bustling, hustling city that will make you realize, happily, that you are truly halfway around the world.

This post contains affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: Jan 16, 2019

The Ultimate Beijing Bucket List - 101 Things to do in Beijing China

• Tourist Attractions (1 – 24)
• National Parks (25 – 26)
• Museums & Memorials (27 – 44)
• Outdoors & Parks (45 – 67)
• Shows & Venues (68 – 73)
• Shopping (74 – 83)
• Food (92 – 101)
• Pin It! Read it Later.

Tourist Attractions + Local Attractions

Bathe at shuang xing tang.

The last remaining traditional bath in the city.

Experience a tui na massage

Rigorous massage technique with over 5,000 years of history.

Beijing National Stadium

Aka the Bird’ Nest from the 2008 Summer Olympics.

Watch the Beijing Tigers 

The most successful team in the Chinese Baseball League.

Cuandixia Village

Historic village from the Ming dynasty about 2-3 hours outside of the city.

Dance in Sanlitun

Best nightlife district in Beijing.

Pick Grapes at Beijing’s Vineyard

Best time to go: September to late October.

798 Arts district

Former military factories turned into creative spaces, showcasing Chinese artists.

Dongzhimen Hospital

Learn about ancient and modern Chinese medicine. You can also try acupunture here.

Beijing Ocean Park

Six huge halls with various marine life and interactive exhibits.

Lugou Bridge

(Marco Polo Bridge) Well liked by the Venetian traveler, Marco Polo, when he visited in the 13th century.

Beijing Zoo

See rare animals such as giant pandas, milu deer, golden monkeys, and more.

Ride in a tuk tuk

Cheap motorized rickshaw rides around town.

Silk Market

Trendy clothes, bags, and other gifts. Be prepared to haggle!

Cherry Lane Movies

Movies with English subtitles on Friday nights.

Beijing Jinyufengshan Spa Resort

Beautifully landscaped, affordable hot springs.

Shichahai skating rink

Rent ice bicycles.

Beijing Antique City

Don’t miss the very large crystal (4600 kg).

The National Aquatics Center at the Olympic Green. See it lit up at night.

Peking University

Ranked in the top 60 in the world.

Ancient Cliff House

The largest site of an ancient cliff residence community in China.

SoReal VR Experience

Immersive VR games that you can play as a single player or in a group.

Happy Magic Water Cube

Different than the one above! A waterpark inside the Water Cube, great for kids and families.

Central Train Station

Opened in 1959, the largest train station in China at the time.

National Parks

Shihuadong national park.

Check out the water-eroded cave.

Walk The Great Wall

Badaling in Shisanling National Park is the closest to Beijing.

Memorials + Museums

Chairman mao memorial hall.

(aka Mausoleum of Mao Zedong)

Beijing Dragon Land Superior Jade Gallery

Learn about how jade is carved and its place in Chinese culture.

Temple of Heaven

UNESCO World Heritage Site built between 1406 and 1420.

There are 13 of them.

Memorial of Jiaozhuanghu Tunnel Warfare Site

Make sure you bring your passport for free admission.

National Museum of China

Learn about the history of China.

Zhangfang Ancient Battle Tunnel

Only known underground military facility in Beijing.

Museum of West Zhou Yandu Relics

Several exhibition halls with cultural relics on display, as well as two groups of preserved Yandu graves.

The Antiquarium of The Palace Museum

See antique treasures that belonged to several emperors. We loved the clocks gallery.

Meridian Gate

The highest building in the Forbidden City.

Treasure Hall in the Forbidden City

See gold, silver, jade, special ceremonial utensils, imperial robe, and the phoenix crown from the Qing Dynasty.

Confucius Temple

See ancient stone tablets.

Poly Art Museum

We loved the 3,000 yr. old bronze pieces.

Tian’anmen Square

Top ten largest city squares in the world and also the site of many important events in Chinese history.

The Ancient Coins Museum

Small museum. You can probably walk through the space within an hour.

Summer Palace

See how exmperors lived in luxury.

Museum of Chinese Medicine

Imperial college.

(Guozijian) Check out the second largest Confucius temple in all of China.

Outdoors + Parks

Bell and drum towers at the forbidden city.

Great panoramic views.

Jingshan Park

To get views overlooking the Forbidden City.

Beihai Park

(Guozijian) Check out Jade Flower Island in the center of the park.

Hundred-Bird Garden

The only bird sanctuary in Beijing.

Shichahai Park

Go for a boat ride.

Hike to Silver Pagodas

Hike at Haizi village ending at Silver Pagodas.

Hike The Great Wall at Jinkou

Part of the Wild Great Wall because of its location and steepness.

Yuyuantan Park

One of the best places to see flowers in Beijing.

Lake Houhai

Go on a weekday. It gets super crowded on the weekends.

Pavilion of Gathering Fragrance

(Jingshan) Play chess at the Jifang pavilion.

Yuan Dadu Park

See statues of Kublai Khan, Emperor Shizu, and more.

Ride a gondola to the Great Wall

Prince gong’s mansion.

Beijing’s largest and the best preserved princely mansion from the Qing Dynasty.

Silver Mountain at Yinshan Pagoda Forest Scenic Area

Sort of hard to find this place, but well worth it.

Yellow Sea or Inner Mongolia

Take a trip with the Beijing Hiking Club to the Yellow Sea or Inner Mongolia.

Olympic Park

Visit after 5pm for good photos.

Shilingxia Scenic Area

Walk on an all glass platform that hangs over 100 ft. out from the cliff with amazing scenic views.

Wu Dao Ying Courtyard

Boutiques, cafes, and other shopping.

Slide Down The Great Wall at Mutianyu

Less crowded than Badaling.

Guo Zi Jian Street

Locals call the prettiest street in Beijing.

Dongdan outdoor exercise park

Large outdoor exercise gym/calisthenics park located at the Temple of Heaven Park.

Yuan Dynasty City Wall Relics Park

Largest linear park in Beijing.

Zhou Kou Dian

(Peking Man Site) One of the first specimens of Homo Erectus, named the Peking Man, was discovered here.

Shows + Venues

Attend a live performance, theater, or audio/visual project.

Beijing Opera

A cultural treasure of China.

Legend of Kung Fu

You can watch their performance at the Red Theatre.

Tianqiao Acrobatics Theatre

Amazing and unique acrobatics.

Red Moon Bar

Listen to traditional Chinese music.

China Puppet Theater

Watch a Chinese puppet play.

Shengxifu Hatter Shop

One of Beijing’s most famous shops.

Taikoo Li Sanlitun

(Guanyuan Shichang) Formerly Sanlitun Village, this shopping center carries several world known brands.

Panjiayuan Antique Market

Flea market with gifts of all sorts.

Shop in Wangfujing

Popular shopping district with streets full of trendy and modern fashion as well as local snacks.

Shop on Nanluoguxiang Street

Young people love to shop here.

Sanlian Taofen Bookstore

Open 24 hours.

Qianmen Food Streets

Come here for popular street food. We liked the soybean cakes.

Window shop on Nanluogu Lane

Historic half mile stretch of specialty shops and distinctive foods.

Mega malls, tech savvy decor, trendy chain stores.

The Bookworm

A coffee shop, library, and restaurant all in one place.

Peking Duck

Try Chinese whiskey.

Try Bing Tang Hu Lu

You can find these candied fruit treats at various markets and street vendors.

Eat a Ji Dan Bing

Tourists and locals alike will line up to buy their famous chestnuts.

Baoyuan Dumplings

Authentic Beijing style jiaozi/dumplings.

Regain Element Brewery

2-story brewpub that’s open late.

Lao She Teahouse

Quality teas for purchase, live performances, speciality tea tastings

Beijing Da Dong

Famous for their duck burger.

Cafe Flat White

(798 Art District) Inspired by Australian and New Zealand cafes.

Panda Beer Microbrewery

Try their popular Ginger Pale Ale.

Culture Exchange Center

Take a cooking class or a tea workshop.

Hai Di Lao Hot Pot

Hand pulled noodles and hot pot. There’s always a wait here.

Capital Spirits Baijiu Bar & Distillery

Try Baijiu, a Chinese alcoholic beverage made from grain.

Liu Xian Guan

Visit here if you’re serious about your teas.

Try Mongolian Hotpot.

Maliandao Tea Market

Try Panda Tea, the most expensive tea in the world.

Suzuki Kitchen

Try the teriyaki beef (not Chinese but still tasty!)

General Travel Tips

• Want to know what to wear to the airport ? These are our ideal airport outfits .
• Carry on essentials to improve your next flight.

Did we miss anything? What would your ideal trip to Beijing include?

Did you enjoy this post? Pin it for later

STAYING IN BEIJING? READ REVIEWS AND FIND BEST HOTEL PRICES:

SEE MORE CITY BUCKET LISTS

ATLANTA BUCKET LIST

PDX BUCKET LIST  

CHARLESTON SC BUCKET LIST

LAS VEGAS BUCKET LIST

LA BUCKET LIST

NYC BUCKET LIST

SAN DIEGO BUCKET LIST

ASHEVILLE NC BUCKET LIST

ATX BUCKET LIST

NEW ORLEANS BUCKET LIST

ORLANDO BUCKET LIST

SAN FRANCISCO BUCKET LIST

SEATTLE BUCKET LIST

WASHINGTON DC BUCKET LIST

“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes ” – M. Proust

CAROLINE + ERIN

They are freelance web designers and photographers who love finding adventure, both big and small. The two make a daily practice of sharing vulnerabilities, truth telling, and side splitting laughter. They’ve honed the art of traveling fast and doing all of the things that an adventurer can do in a day or two. The couple lives in Asheville and loves spending their time in the mountains.

You might also love

15 Amazing Things to Do in Kyoto for First Timers

11 Unique Things to Do in Beijing China

Temple of Heaven in Beijing

Leave a reply cancel reply.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Meet the Team
• Our Manifesto
• Work with Us
• Budget Travel
• Personal Development
• Work & Travel
• United Kingdom
• More of Europe
• Philippines
• More of Southeast Asia
• More of South America
• More of Central America
• South Korea
• More of Asia
• More of North America
• New Zealand
• Pacific Islands
• More of Oceania
• South Africa
• More of Africa
• More of the Middle East
• Travel Essentials
• Travel Gear

Home » Asia » China » Beijing

10 BEST Places to Visit in Beijing (2024)

Beijing is a fascinating city, a mix of ultramodern architecture, ancient history, and delicious and unusual cuisine. Remnants of Chinese history from the Ming and Qing dynasties are clearly on show in a city that has a past dating back more than 3,000 years.

When you’ve explored sites like the incredible Forbidden City, Great Wall of China, Imperial Palace and Tiananmen Square, there are a number of natural spots and green spaces just waiting to be discovered around Beijing city too. There’s everything you could want from a vacation here!

In this article, I’ll show you some of the top Beijing attractions and best places to visit in Beijing. I’ve looked at all of the many cool attractions in Beijing and selected my favourites so that you can plan your trip quickly and easily.

So, let’s check out the best places to stay in Beijing!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Beijing:

These are the best places to visit in beijing, faq on the best places to visit in beijing.

• Buy Us a Coffee!

Xidan / Xisi

Just west of the Forbidden City in Xicheng District, you’ll find these two neighborhoods – Xidan and Xisi. The former being a bustling shopping malls and commercial area and the latter is quieter and dotted with old public buildings, temples, and winding hutong alleys filled with artsy hangouts and home-grown cafes.

• Enjoy a cultural tradition of watching a Beiing Opera performance at the Mei Lan Fang Grand Theatre
• Visit a reconstruction of one of the original paifangs in the middle of the Xidan Culture Square
• Gaze on the Miaoying Temple Whita Dagoba from the rooftop terrace at Bear Brew

Not only have I taken the stress out of finding the MUST SEE Beijing attractions and consolidating them all here, I’ve also found the most epic places to stay in Beijing for you as well.

Check out my accommodation recommendations before heading on down to number 1 and beyond!

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

#1 – The Forbidden City and Imperial Palace Museum – One of the most amazing places in Beijing

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

• Visit the largest palace complex in the world
• Discover centuries of China’s history
• One of the most iconic landmarks in Beijing

Why it’s awesome: The Forbidden City was built in the early 15 th century and it’s a true historic treasure and a must-see on any Beijing itinerary! The largest palatial structure in the world, and one of the best-preserved in China, it’s the perfect place to learn more about the Ming and Qing dynasties.

You’ll need a few hours to do this place justice, as it’s packed with imperial gardens, stunning architecture, and living quarters of former emperors. The one downside of this cool place is that because it’s arguably China’s number one attraction it can get pretty busy! I’d recommend getting there first thing in the morning.

What to do there: The Forbidden City is so huge that it’s probably a good idea to have some sort of guide or join one of the Beijing tours. Whether you choose a real human or an audio guide, that’s up to you.

But otherwise, you’ll be wandering around not knowing what’s going on and you might miss some of the coolest or most important exhibits in the Imperial Palace Museum!

Your legs are bound to get tired with all the walking, but if so, you can always stop in one of the cafes within the walls! The Forbidden City truly is one of the best places to visit in Beijing.

#2 – Summer Palace – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Beijing

• One of the best-preserved imperial gardens in the world
• Take a Dragon Boat out onto Kunming Lake and admire the palace from afar
• One of the most famous places in Beijing

Why it’s awesome: The Summer Palace is another of the best places in Beijing, as it offers not only a fantastic example of Chinese architecture and ancient art but stunning lake views in a natural setting too!

Like the Forbidden City, you’ll need to set aside a whole day to visit the Summer Palace at a leisurely pace. If you’re a bit quicker, you can see everything there is in half a day, but you will feel wiped out afterwards! The palace has a rich and vibrant history, and surprisingly it was only restored to its current glory last century.

What to do there: First of all, either take one of the Beijing tours or explore the Summer Palace on your own. There are three main areas to check out, which are the Court Area, the front area of Longevity Hill, and Kunming Lake.

The Longevity Area has the most constructions and is arguably the most impressive, while Kunming Lake is much more peaceful. A highly recommended activity is taking a dragon boat tour on the lake to be dazzled by the palace from afar!

#3 – Beihai Park – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Beijing

• Loved by locals and tourists alike
• Skate on the frozen lake in winter
• Admire the White Tower Temple, one of the key religious landmarks in Beijing

Why it’s awesome: This beautiful park was an imperial garden of the Jin Dynasty in the 12 th century, but now it’s free for everyone to enjoy. It was listed as a national cultural relic in 1961 but was then closed during the cultural revolution in the 70s.

The reason? Allegedly, it was so that the wife of Chairman Mao could have it all to herself! It’s a pretty big park for one person though. More than half the park is taken up by the White Tower Temple and the lake!

What to do there: Beihai Park is one of the hotspots in Beijing for activities. If you fancy a leisurely stroll or cycle along one of the shaded pathways in the park, this is the place for you.

The lake is also a great spot for entertainment, no matter the season. If you’re visiting the park in the summer, be sure to take a duck boat out onto the lake and peddle to your heart’s content! Visiting in winter?

Well, get your skates on and glide over the ice – amazingly Beijing is cold enough for the lake to freeze over completely!

#4 – The Great Wall of China – One of Beijing’s coolest historical sites

• Take a hike on one of the longest man-made structures in the world
• A fascinating day trip from Beijing

Why it’s awesome: One of the few manmade structures that can be made from space, no trip to Beijing is complete without visiting the Great Wall of China. It’s arguably the most iconic, and most beautiful place in China .

I understand that it’s a little far out of the city center of Beijing City, but it’s well worth taking one of the Beijing tours or making the journey yourself on public transport.

This 5,500km superstructure was created to stop invasions from Nomadic tribes into Chinese territory centuries ago. Now, it’s one of the most recognisable landmarks in Beijing, and walking or hiking on the city walls is a must-do activity!

What to do there: Badaling is the closest part of the Great Wall of China to Beijing. Naturally, this makes it the most popular part for tourists, but it has great infrastructure.

If you don’t want to hike on the Great Wall, you can enjoy a cable car ride instead. Mutianyu is a little further from Badaling and is as beautifully restored as Badaling but you won’t have to face as many crowds.

There are cable cars there too, should you want to see the Great Wall in as easy a manner as possible! Other sections like Huanghua Cheng and Jiankou are reachable from Beijing too.

Want to save money on accommodation?

We got you. For reals.

#5 – Tiananmen Square – Possibly one of the most important places to visit in Beijing

• One of the world’s largest public squares
• Space for over 1 million people!
• Admire the architecture surrounding the square

Why it’s awesome: Tiananmen Square is rather infamous for the famous tank photo and the protests of 1989 when many people lost their lives.

However, nowadays this huge square is one of the most popular gathering places in the capital, in part due to its huge size.

There’s space for over a million people here! It’s a Beijing must-see, and the square is centred around the Monument to the People’s Heroes. It’s also where you’ll find the mausoleum of the former Chinese leader, Mao Zedong.

What to do there: Tiananmen Square is one of the best places in Beijing to spend some time just relaxing and people watching.

At the northern end of the square is the Forbidden City, while it’s also flanked by the Imperial Ancestral Temple and Zhongshang Park to the left. Take a guided tour or audio tour of the square to learn more about its history and the significance of the monuments in and around one of the best-known landmarks in Beijing!

You can also check out the National Museum of China that flanks the eastern edge of the square.

The National Museum houses exhibits showcasing the historical pieces of art as well as educational exhibits on the Opium Wars, the Sino-French and Sino-Japanese Wars, the founding of the Communist Party. There are some political exhibits in the National Museum, and when reading about politics, remember there are two sides to every coin. You’ll find exhibits on the 1911 Revolution, and the Tiananmen Square massacre in 1989 (the government’s side of it).

Stay in a hostel nearby so that you can head to the flag-raising event between 7.20 and 7.40 in the morning. It’s certainly a spectacle!

#6 – The World Park

• Travel around the world without leaving the city!
• Admire some of the world’s most famous landmarks in miniature
• One of a few unusual things to do in Beijing

Why it’s awesome: International travel can prove difficult for Chinese citizens, so the World Park is a solution! Around 10km south of Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden Palace, this is the opportunity to step into another world.

Made up of 4 ‘oceans’ that separate 5 ‘continents’ you can visit some of the world’s most famous attractions. These include the Eiffel Tower (of course), London’s Tower Bridge, and the Empire State Building. Seeing these cool replications in miniature are really impressive, as the attention to detail is on another level!

What to do there: Visit as many of the attractions as you can! And it’s easy to do at the World Park. You can choose to make your way around in miniature speedboats, in battery-operated cars, or aboard the park’s monorail system.

Miniature attractions like this are starting to pop up in other Chinese cities like Shanghai, but the Beijing one is definitely worth a visit while you’re in town. Make sure you get lots of pictures at this cool and quirky Beijing attraction!

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

#7 – Ullens Centre for Contemporary Art

• One of the most exciting collections of art in China
• UCCA is close to a number of cool galleries throughout the 798 neighbourhood
• One of many great Beijing vacation ideas for art lovers

Why it’s awesome: Opened in 2007, The Ullens Centre for Contemporary Art is the child of Belgian philanthropists Guy and Myriam Ullens. When they bought it, it was an abandoned military factory, which is pretty cool to begin with.

Now, it’s one of the hotspots in Beijing for art, both local and international. There are no permanent exhibitions here – all are on a rotating basis and have a link to Chinese culture. There are lots of other galleries nearby in the 798 Art District, so it’s a great neighbourhood to base yourself in if you’re into art.

What to do there: Explore Beijing’s coolest art gallery to get a deeper understanding of contemporary Chinese culture. You can be safe in the knowledge that when you visit here, you’re supporting the local arts scene, and if you want to learn more you can always check out the events calendar.

Yes, UCCA doesn’t just showcase art, but it has workshops and talks, and film screenings too! Get it on your Beijing activity, whether you’re into art or not!

#8 – Yonghegong Lama Temple – One of the most religious places to see in Beijing

• Visit Beijing’s premier Tibetan temple
• See a combination of Han Chinese and Tibetan architecture
• One of the most beautiful attractions in Beijing

Why it’s awesome: The incredible and ornate Yonghegong Lama Temple was built for the Yongzheng Emperor in the Qing Dynasty, but at the time he was still a prince.

When the emperor came to the throne, the estate was transformed into a Buddhist temple, which makes it seem more luxurious and grander than your average temple. The temple consists of over 1,000 halls and monk’s cells, so you’ll need plenty of time to see the whole thing!

What to do there: Since it’s the largest and best-preserved lamasery in China, it’s probably a good idea to go on a guided tour to learn more about this incredible building. Don’t miss the red walls and the stone lions in the entrance courtyard, before heading into the building itself.

Other important areas that you shouldn’t miss in the temple include the stunning Hall of Harmony and Peace, the Devaraja Hall, and the Pavilion of Ten Thousand Happinesses!

#9 – Shichahai – A very cool place to go in Beijing for a day

• Explore the three lakes of Shichahai
• Try some tasty street food
• Enjoy people watching from the cool shade under a willow tree

Why it’s awesome: This beautiful and picturesque area in northwest Beijing is one of the most scenic spots in the city. The main reason for Shichahai is to stroll around the 3 lakes, otherwise known as the Front Sea, the Back Sea, and the West Sea.

The lakes’ shores are peppered with some cool points of interest, including local temples, houses with traditional courtyards, and some of the best places to eat in Beijing if you’re into street food !

Some of the most important works of architecture on the lake include Gong Wang Fu, Chung Wang Fu, and the former residence of Song Qing Ling.

What to do there: Shichahai is the perfect place to escape Beijing’s hustle and bustle, so try not to do too much. One of the nicest things to do in the peaceful and quiet area is sit in the shade of a willow tree and decompress.

You can also take a pedicab around the hutongs in the area, a cool way to see the sights!

Feeling brave? The street food stalls here sell a whole manner of unusual dishes, including sheep tripe! If you need the courage to try something like that, you can always have a couple of beers at Houhai Bar Street first!

#10 – China Watermelon Museum – One of the more unique places to visit in Beijing

• Learn about one of the heaviest watermelon producing regions in the world
• Find out about the history and future of watermelons (they’re going into space, apparently)
• One of the most unusual things to do in Beijing!

Why it’s awesome: So, let’s end with something a little unusual. Everyone has Tiananmen Square, the Great Wall, and the Forbidden City on their Beijing itinerary, but how many people can boast of going to the watermelon museum?!

There’s a method to the madness though, The countryside south of Beijing is one of the largest watermelon producers in the world, so it makes sense that you come here to learn more about it.

Head to the little township of Panggezhuang for a unique, futuristic, and downright bizarre fruity experience!

What to do there: Unfortunately, there are no explanations here in English, but this is an unusual opportunity to immerse yourself in a totally unique attraction.

You can see wax watermelons from around the world and learn about their history. The neon lights work perfectly on the exhibition that shows the melons up in space!

It’s not all about wax melons, oh no. You can also head outside to see real watermelons growing. You can enjoy all this to the instrumental from Titanic, which plays on loop. Don’t miss this utterly weird attraction when visiting Beijing!

Get insured for your trip to Beijing!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Beijing

What is the most visited place in Beijing?

The Palace Museum and the Forbidden City are the most visited tourist attractions in Beijing. They received over 17.5 million tourists in the year 2019.

What are some unusual places to visit in Beijing?

The China Watermelon Museum has to be one of the most unusual attractions in Beijing – here you can see wax watermelons from around the world and learn about their history.

What’s Beijing famous for?

Beijing is known for its palaces and historical landmarks, such as the UNESCO heritage city, the Forbidden City. It is also a popular place to go to see the Great Wall of China.

Are there any free places to visit in Beijing?

Beihai Park is free to enter and is a beautiful garden that gifts stunning nature in amongst the often smoggy city.

Final Thoughts on Places to Visit in Beijing

So, that concludes my guide to the best places to visit in Beijing. I hope you’ve found this article useful and helpful when it comes to planning your trip.

Although the Forbidden City is undoubtedly one of the highlights of a visit to the Chinese capital, I hope that I’ve shown you that there’s more to the city and that.

It’s clear that as well as historical sites, interesting museums, and sprawling parks, the city has its fair share of unusual attractions too, which will add a bit of quirkiness to your trip when added to your Beijing itinerary.

As well as seeing the best that Beijing has to offer, I hope my list has given you a bit of insight on how to see the city like a local, and you’re able to make the most of a few off-the-beaten-track attractions.

Whatever you choose to do, I hope you have a great time in Beijing!

Buy Us a Coffee !

A couple of you lovely people suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!

You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee . If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

• +86 28 85223672
• +86 28 85227275
• +86 191 3897 0032

• Beijing Xian Tours
• Shanghai Beijing Tours
• Hong Kong Guilin Tours
• Hangzhou Suzhou Tours
• Kunming Lijiang Tours
• Shanghai Yangtze Cruise Tours
• Chengdu Tibet Tours
• More Short Stay Tours
• China Tours in January
• China Tours in February
• China Tours in March
• China Tours in April
• China Tours in May
• China Tours in June
• China Tours in July
• China Tours in August
• China Tours in September
• China Tours in October
• China Tours in November
• China Tours in December

• High Speed Trains
• China Yangtze Cruise Tour
• Photography
• Desert Adventure
• Ethnic Villages
• Biking Tours
• Kung Fu Tours
• Heritage Sites Exploration
• China Spring Tours
• China Summer Tours
• China Autumn Tours
• China Winter Tours

Notice! 2024 available cruise routes include 4~5 days Chongqing-Yichang(most classic) and 11~12 days Chongqing-Yichang-Shanghai(limited).

• Best-value Yangtze Cruises
• Top Family-friendly Cruise Ships
• Top 3 Luxury Yangtze River Cruises
• Yangtze River Highlights
• Yangtze River Cruise Routes
• Upstream or Downstream?
• Dining & Drinking
• Accommodations
• On-board Activities
• Yangtze Cruise Booking Steps

• Inner Mongolia

• Fanjingshan
• How to Plan Your First China Tour
• How to Plan Beijing Tour
• How to Plan Xian Tour
• How to Plan Shanghai Tour
• How to Plan Guilin Tour
• How to Plan Sichuan Tour
• How to Plan Family Tour
• 2024 China Travel Ideas
• Best Time to Visit China
• What to Pack for Your China Journey
• Make Payment in China
• Updated China Travel News
• Ultimate Chinese Visa Guide
• Chinese Visa Types
• Chinese Visa Requirements
• Do I Need a Visa for China
• Chinese Visa Application
• Chinese Visa Exemptions
• 144-hour Visa Free
• Shenzhen Visa on Arrival
• Hainan 30-day Visa Free
• Embassies & Consulates
• Invitation Letter
• Useful Visa FAQs & Tips
• Entry Regulations
• Baggage Allowance
• Customs Declaration
• Exit Regulation
• How to Book Train Tickets
• How to Collect Train Tickets
• How to Cancel & Alter Train Tickets
• How to Read Train Tickets
• China High Speed Train Types
• Seats Class & How to Choose
• Friendly Facilities on the Train
• The Train Station Departure Process
• Available Food and Drinks on the Train
• Western Toilets on the Train
• Luggage Racks & Baggage Allowance
• Beijing Train Stations
• Shanghai Train Stations
• Guilin Train Stations
• Xian Train Stations
• Chengdu Train Stations
• Hong Kong West Kowloon Railway Station
• Beijing - Xian
• Beijing - Shanghai
• Guangzhou - Shanghai
• Shenzhen - Shanghai
• Chengdu - Xian
• Shanghai - Hangzhou
• Shanghai - Xian
• Chengdu - Chongqing
• Kunming - Lijiang
• Beijing Capital International
• Beijing Daxing International
• Shanghai Pudong International
• Shanghai Hongqiao International
• Guangzhou Baiyun International
• Hangzhou Xiaoshan International
• Chengdu Tianfu International
• Chengdu Shuangliu International
• Xian Xianyang International
• Shanghai - Beijing
• Hong Kong - Shanghai
• Guangzhou - Beijing
• Chengdu - Lhasa
• Shanghai - Guilin
• Shanghai - Sanya
• Travel in Spring Season
• Travel in Summer Season
• Travel in Autumn Season
• Travel in Winter Season
• Weather in January
• Weather in February
• Weather in March
• Weather in April
• Weather in May
• Weather in June
• Weather in July
• Weather in August
• Weather in September
• Weather in October
• Weather in November
• Weather in December
• Top 10 China Destinations
• Top 15 Things to Do
• China World Heritage Sites
• Top 10 Best Natural Beauties
• Top 10 Museums in China
• Top 10 Old Towns & Villages
• Five Great Mountains in China
• Top 10 Monasteries & Temples
• Top 10 Ski Resorts
• Top 10 Beautiful Lakes in China
• 7 Best Beaches in Sanya
• Top 6 Beautiful Waterfalls
• Panda Loving Care
• Having fun on Ice and Snow Festival
• About Us Who We Are Our Team Why Travel with Us Feedback & Reviews Travel Stories Travelers' Gallery Payment Guide Customer Support Contact Us
• Tour Experiences

Destinations

• Travel Guide

With a history of over 3000 years and as the capital of China, Beijing is a city with both ancient charm and modern vitality. Beijing is home to eight world heritage sites and is the world's first capital city with Global Geo-parks. At present in Beijing, there are more than 200 tourist attractions open to the public. So which ones should we visit? Here we have selected 7 must-see sights for travelers who come to Beijing for the first time to make a worthwhile trip.

Top 7 Places to Visit in Beijing

No. 1: Tiananmen Square - Largest Center Plaza in the World

Tiananmen Square is in the Heart of Beijing. As a site of many important events, Tiananmen Square enjoys a great political, historical and cultural significance. On 1st October 1949, Chairman Mao proclaimed the establishment of People’s Republic of China in Tiananmen Gate. Without any doubt, Tiananmen Square becomes a symbol of national cohesion and prosperity of China.

Opening Hours: 5:30 ~ 18:00

Tickets: Free for Square

Recommended Visiting Time: 1 - 2 hours

Address: Chang’an Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100009, China

No. 2: Forbidden City – Most Magnificent Imperial Palace in the World

Once forbidden and now permitted. Forbidden City (紫禁城), officially called Gugong (故宫), was the imperial palace for 24 Emperors of Ming (A.D. 1368 - 1644) and Qing (A.D. 1644 - 1911) Dynasties. The cultural richness of China is truly reflected at this 72-hectare historical palace. You can have a panorama view of the Forbidden City from Jingshan Park .

Opening Hours: Apr – Oct: 8:30 to 17:00 / Nov – Mar: 8:30 to 16:30 /Closed on Monday (except for national holidays and July – August)

Tickets: Apr to Oct: ￥60 / Nov to Mar: ￥40

Recommended Visiting Time: 2~4 hours

Address: No.4 Jingshanqian Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing 100009, China

No. 3: The Great Wall – Most Magnificent Man-Made Wonder

The 21196.18km Great Wall is the landmark of China, one of the most famous man-made wonder in the world. It was constructed by million of ancient people, like a dragon lying atop the steep ridges and mountains, stretching from the desert in the north to the eastern estuary of China's Bohai Sea. >>Which Section of Great Wall to Visit

Opening Hours: Vary from different sections

Tickets: Usually from CNY 20 ~ 60

Recommended Visiting Time: Half day

Address: Beijing surburb, about 3 hours' drive from downtown

No. 4: Temple of Heaven – Masterpiece of Architecture and Landscape Design

The Temple of Heaven is the best place in Beijing to explore the traditional royal sacrificial culture of ancient China. It served as the holy place for emperors to pay homage to Heaven and to pray for rich harvest. At the same time, it is a pleasant place for leisure stay of walking or sightseeing, and for exploration of local culture.

Opening Hours: Apr to Oct: 06:00 ~ 22:00 / Nov to Mar: 06:30 ~ 22:00

Tickets: Apr to Oct:￥15 / Nov to Mar: ￥10

Address: Tiantan Road, Dongcheng District, Beijing 100050, China

No. 5: Summer Palace – Best Royal Garden in China

Summer Palace is now a public park, but used to be the private garden for Royal families of Qing Dynasty to spend the hot summer days. Constructed around the Longevity Hill and Kunming Lake, Summer Palace is a vast complex of gardens, palaces, lakes and hills. It has assembled almost the best design, skill and classic features of traditional gardening architecture of ancient China.

Opening Hours: Apr to Oct: 06:00 ~ 20:00 / Nov to Mar: 06:30 ~ 19:00

Tickets: Apr to Oct: ￥30 / Nov to Mar: ￥20

Recommended Visiting Time: 3 - 4 hours

Address: 19 Xin Jian Gong Men Rd, Haidian District, Beijing 100084, China

No. 6: Hutong - The Vitality & Pulse of Beijing

Beijing Hutong connecting the quadrangle dwellings is more than a tourist attraction, but the pulse of this city. All the over 6,000 long, short, wide, narrow, straight and winding alleys link the whole Beijing from the ancient times. They tell various stories that happened here and show the historic development and cultural change of Beijing city.

Opening Hours: All day

Tickets: Free

Address: The most popular Nanluoguxiang is at Di'anmen East Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing, and Yandaixiejie is at Di'anmenwai Main Street, Xicheng District, Beijing

No. 7: Universal Studios Beijing - Step Into Magical Lands in Flims

Constructed by combining the world’s famous movie theme parks with Chinese elements, Universal Studios Beijing offers massive challenging rides, interactive shows and fantastic events for kids and visitors of all ages. It currently consists of 7 themed lands - The Wizarding World of Harry Potter TM , Jurassic World Isla Nublar, Transformers Metrobase, Minion Land, Kung Fu Panda Land of Awesomeness, WaterWorld, and Hollywood.

Opening Hours: Universal Studios 10:00~20:00; City Walk 08:00~21:30

Tickets: Standard 1-day, CNY 363/pp to CNY 533/pp

Recommended Visiting Time: 1 - 2 Days

Address: Tongzhou, Beijing, China

How to Plan a Beijing Tour if I Have 1 Day, 2 Days, or 3 Days (Excluding Arrival Day)

1 day beijing tour: tiananmen square, forbidden city, temple of heaven.

If you only got one day in Beijing and just want to tour around downtown area, it is recommended to get to the Tiananmen Square first and then go to the Forbidden City which is only 1.5km away. Then in the afternoon, you can head to the Temple of Heaven.

Or if you are interested in the Great Wall, you can spend this day hiking on the popular and less crowded Mutianyu section and get back in the afternoon.

>>Private and Tailor-made 1 Day Beijing Layover Tours

2 Days Beijing Tour: Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven, the Great Wall

With an extra day, you can have a not-so-tight schedule to well explore Beijing. Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, and Summer Palace can be arranged on the same day. On the next day, after watching the locals take part in traditional activities, such as Tai Chi, dancing, water calligraphy, etc. at Temple of Heaven, you can take a Great Wall hiking trip at Mutianyu or other sections.

As the Great Wall consists of many sections and each of them has their own charm, you can also choose to spend the two days hiking two or more different sections such as Jinshanling, Simatai, Huanghuacheng…

3 Days Beijing Essential Short Stay Tour

2 Days Jinshanling and Simatai Great Wall Scenic Hiking

3 days beijing tour: tiananmen square, forbidden city, temple of heaven, the great wall, summer palace, hutong.

3 days is sufficient to cover all the 6 sites mentioned above and spare you some time for other attractions such as the Olympic Park and 798 Art District. If you plan to go to Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, you can pay a visit to 798 Art District on your way back to downtown Beijing. Then go to the Olympic Park to see the beautiful Bird’s Nest and Water Cube at night.

4 Days Classic Beijing Tour Package (Leisure Paced)

4 days classic beijing tour with a whole day fun at universal studios beijing: perfect for family and friends travel.

Providing visitors with immersive and interactive experiences by recreating movie scenes, characters, and plots, Universal Beijing Resort is an extravaganza not to be missed by dreamers and movie fans.

5 Days Beijing Family-friendly Tour with Universal Studios Fun

6 most recommended beijing tour packages.

No matter how many days you plan to stay in Beijing, there is always a tour suitable for you. Following are some best Beijing tour packages covering most highlights in Beijing. If you still have no idea where to start, you can design a tailor-made Beijing trip with us.

2 Days Beijing Layover Highlights Tour

Take cable car up to Mutianyu Great Wall and enjoy a leisure hike on the Great Wall, also roam in the imperial Forbidden City, Summer Palace and Temple of Heaven.

3 Days Beijing Essential Short Stay

Specially designed for travelers who meet the Visa-free Transit Policy in Beijing. Hike the less-crowded Mutianyu section of Great Wall with other famous Beijing attractions.

4 Days Classic Beijing Tour Package

A classic Beijing tour taking you to visit the best and featured highlights of Beijing in a single trip and explore the glorious past and present of Beijing in one go.

4 Days Beijing Family Tour with Kids Fun

Spend a quality and enjoyable time with your children with interesting kid-friendly activities and explore the authentic Beijing life by visiting traditional Beijing Hutongs.

4 Days Beijing Simatai Great Wall Tour

Hike the most beautiful section of Great Wall - Jinshanling, and take in the peaceful and beautiful night view of Simatai Great Wall with round-trip cable cars included.

4 Days Classic Beijing Tour with Jinshanling Great Wall Hiking

Well explore Beijing city and take a side trip to hike Jinshanling Great Wall, one of the best preserved sections of Ming Great Wall featured in steep mountains, ornate and dense towers.

Start planning your tailor-made holiday to China by contacting one of our specialists. Once inquired, you’ll get a response within 0.5~23.5 hours.

Have a question? Get answers from our travel experts or guests

• Your Question:
• Your Email:
• Affordable and valuable price
• 100% tailor-made packages
• Highly rated customers reviews
• Efficient customer support

China Tours

• Top 10 China Tours
• Classic China Tours
• China Tours from Beijing
• China Tours from Shanghai
• China Tours from Hong Kong
• China Tours from Chengdu
• Short China Trips
• Customize China Tour
• China Panda Tours
• Family Tour with Kids
• High-Speed Train Tour
• Silk Road Travel
• Yangtze River Cruise
• Hiking & Trekking Tours
• Photography Tours
• China Minority Travel
• Beijing Shanghai Tours
• Shanghai Yangtze Tours
• Chengdu Jiuzhaigou Tours
• Chengdu Lhasa Tours
• Suzhou Hangzhou Tours
• Guilin & Yangshuo
• Zhangjiajie

“Very good experience”

“WONDERFUL 25 DAYS IN CHINA - PRIVATE TOUR”

“Awesome China tour from northeast to southwest”

Any questions, please email us at: [email protected] or call us at: +86-28-85223672 / +86-28-85227275 / +86-19138970032 (Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. GMT+8)

• Terms & Condition
• Privacy Policy
• Customer Support

Copyright © 2011-2024. All rights reserved.

Cookie policy

We use cookies to give you the best experience on our website. Continue using our website means you agree with our cookie policy. For more info, please read here .

• South Africa
• Afghanistan
• North Korea
• Adventure + Outdoors
• Amusement Parks
• Backpacking Trips
• Boating + Cruises
• Budget Travel
• Bus + Train Travel
• Coasts + Islands
• Country Trips
• Fall Vacations
• Family Vacations
• Green Travel
• Heritage + History
• Honeymoons + Romance
• Inspiration + Guide
• Landmarks + Attractions
• LGBT Travel
• Markets + Bazaars
• National Parks + Reserves
• Nature + Wildlife
• Parks + Gardens
• Pets + Animals
• Photography
• Airlines + Airports
• Budgeting + Currency
• Business Travel
• Celebrity Travel
• Customs + Immigration
• Deals + Rewards
• Family Travel
• Hotels + Resorts
• Luggage + Packing Tips
• Offbeat News
• Photography Tips
• Responsible Travel
• Solo Travel
• Tech + Gear
• Travel Etiquette
• Travel Warnings
• Bars + Clubs
• Celebrity Chefs
• Restaurants + Cafés
• Wine + Vineyards
• Beach Hotels
• Boutique Hotels
• Hotel Openings
• Hotel Reviews
• Luxury Hotels
• Mountain + Ski Resorts
• Spa Resorts
• Vacation Rentals
• Asia Cruises
• European Cruises
• Festivals + Events
• Museums + Galleries
• Style + Design
• Travel’s Best
• Hotel with Agoda.com
• Hotel with Booking.com

Where to go in Keelung? 11+ top Keelung attractions & best…

Guide to Joo Chiat Singapore. What to do & top things…

7 days in Hawaii itinerary. How to spend Hawaii itinerary 1…

19+ must-see & best places to visit in Hokkaido

The complete Seoul subway guide: How to use, lines, fares for…

How much does it cost to travel to Korea? Tips on…

The ultimate guide to NETS FlashPay Card: What is it, how…

How much will it cost to go to Singapore? Tips on…

13 best, most famous & popular bubble tea in Taiwan

Where to eat in Penang? 17 best places to eat &…

Best bubble tea in Taiwan — Top 11 most famous &…

29+ must-try foods in Thailand

11+ best homestays in Kuala Lumpur near famous tourist attractions

Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives reviews. The detailed review of my vacation…

Hyatt Regency Danang Resort and Spa reviews. The resort is highly…

+7 luxury resorts you must stay in Danang, Vietnam

10 must-know things for your best first time European river cruise

Top 3 best luxury cruises in Halong Bay, Vietnam

Cherry blossom festival Korea 2024 — Top 5 cherry blossom festivals…

Ghibli museum blog — The fullest Ghibli museum guide for first-timers

Kyoto festival — Top 10 best events & most famous festivals…

National Palace Museum Taipei blog — What to see in National…

Japanese waterfall — Top 10 most beautiful waterfalls in Japan in…

19+ most beautiful towns in Europe every tourist need to visit…

Georgia travel photos — 20+ captivating photos show Georgia is heaven…

Explore Damnoen Floating Market — The oldest floating market of Thailand

Visiting Fenghuang Ancient Town — One of the most charming ancient…

Mekong Delta travel blog — Beyond rivers of Southwestern Vietnam

14 reasons why you should travel when you are young

Shigaraki Tanuki – An animal symbol of good luck in Japan

Living in the charms of cave houses in Andalucia, Southern Spain

20+ jaw-dropping tiny homes around the world

Where to visit in beijing — 15+ top, must-visit & best places to visit in beijing.

As the second largest city and the capital of China, Beijing is always the first choice for many travelers to begin learning about the beauty of culture, history, and the people of China. Which destinations to explore in such a big city? So, where to go in Beijing, where to visit in Beijing, where to travel in Beijing? Let’s check out our top rated 15+ top places to visit in Beijing, best places to go in Beijing, best places to see in Beijing, best places to visit in Beijing, famous places to visit in Beijing, must go places in Beijing, must see places in Beijing and must visit places in Beijing as follows!

• Visiting Fenghuang Ancient Town — One of the most charming ancient towns of China
• Guide to Yiheyuan Beijing — The fullest Summer Palace Beijing guide to the China’s most beautiful classical garden
• What to buy in Guangzhou? — 11+ best things to buy in Guangzhou & best shopping places in Guangzhou
• Where & what to buy in Nanjing? — 7+ must-buy Nanjing souvenirs & best things to buy in Nanjing
• Guide to Shenzhen nightlife — Top 5 things & what to do in Shenzhen at night

Let’s find out the top 15+ prominent destinations that you must visit when traveling to Beijing.

The Palace Museum, Forbidden City (#  best places to visit in beijing)

Forbidden City, also known as the Imperial Palace, is located in the center of Beijing. This was the palace of the royal dynasties from the middle period of the Ming Dynasty to the end of the Qing Dynasty in China. In 1961, it was recognized as one of the first national cultural relics. This place was recognized by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage in 1987. Housed in the Forbidden City is the Palace Museum.

The Forbidden City is considered a symbol of ancient Chinese imperial power. The Forbidden City was built during the Yongle period, Ming Dynasty (1406–1420 AD). Covering an area of about 720,000 square meters, this is also the largest and most intact wooden building complex in the world.

To get to the Imperial Palace, you will need to pass through Tiananmen Square, which is located behind Jingsan Mountain with Wangfujing Market to the East and Zhongnanhai Market to the West. According to Chinese feng shui and astrology, the Ziwei Temple dating back to the Middle Ages is the home of the Jade Emperor, corresponding to heaven and earth. The third emperor of the Ming Dynasty, Zhu Xi, decided to move the capital to Beijing and built this palace.

In its more than 500-year history, a total of 24 emperors lived here. Surrounding the Imperial Palace is a 10-meter-high wall and a 52-meter-wide moat. Today, the Forbidden City is widely open to tourists for sightseeing activities, and this is also the top place to visit when traveling to Beijing.

• Address: 4 Jingshan Front St, Dong Cheng Qu, Bei Jing Shi, China, 100009
• Ticket price: Normally RMB 40 per person and RMB 60 per person during peak season Treasure display palace: RMB 10 per person Clock display palace: RMB 10 per person
• Hours: 8:30 AM – 5 PM (April – October) / 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (November – March)
• Bus routes: No. 1, 4, 20, 52, 57; Tram 101, 103, 109; or subway

Summer Palace (# best places to see in beijing)

This palace was built during the Qing Dynasty, located 15 kilometers west of central Beijing. This place is famous for its typical Chinese garden architecture. It is also the most intact royal palace in China to date. This place has one of the four most famous flower gardens in China. The area of Summer Palace is about 290 hectares. Summer Palace’s design is inspired by Kunming Lake, Wanshou Mountain, Hangzhou’s West Lake, and so on.

It was constructed between 1750 and 1764, and three-quarters of the area is water. Summer Palace is known as Yiheyuan with a history of more than 800 years. The name Yiheyuan also means a garden that nurtures peace. In the past, this was the place where the royal family enjoyed visiting for pleasure and entertainment. In 1998, Summer Palace was honored to be recognized by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage.

This place has been open to welcome visitors continuously since 1924. To visit the entire area would take you all day because there are many different attractions for you to explore and admire within the grounds of Summer Palace. The Eastern Palace Gate is where the Qing emperor discussed government affairs, hosted ministers, organized activities, and enjoyed music with large stages. The Hall of Joy and Longevity and Kunming Lake offer natural sceneries with blooming flower gardens where the emperor came to rest and admire the beautiful views. In addition, there are other locations such as Suzhou Street, Tower of Buddhist Incense, and so on.

• Address: 19 Xinjiangongmen Rd, Haidian District, China, 100091
• Ticket price: RMB 20 per person and RMB 40-50 per person during peak season
• Hours: 6 AM – 8 PM (April – October) / 6:30 AM – 7 PM (November – March)
• Bus routes: No. 301, 303, 330, 332, 333, 346, 362, 375, 384, 394, 716, 718, 801, 817, 904

Great Wall of China (# best places to go in beijing)

The Great Wall of China or the Great Wall is the common name for many ramparts that stretch about 8,851 kilometers from East to West. It passes through provinces and cities such as Liaoning, Hebei, Tianjin, Beijing, Inner Mongolia, Shanxi, Shaanxi, Ningxia, Gansu, and so on.

The Great Wall has an average height of 7 meters above the ground. The wall is 5-6 meters wide and was built from earth and stone during the 5th century BC and the 16th century to protect ancient China from attacks by the Huns, Mongols, Tujue, and other nomadic tribes from the regions that are now part of Mongolia and Manchuria.

In 1987, the Great Wall became a world heritage site recognized by UNESCO. In addition, it is also on the list of the “New Seven Wonders of the World.” People believe that the Great Wall is China’s greatest man-made wonder, which also plays an important role throughout the country’s more than 5,000-year history.

Note: There are many opinions that the Great Wall can be seen from space but some American experts and astronauts have proven the opposite. They assert that there is no artificial structure that can be seen from outer space without supporting equipment. This has been agreed upon by China, and the country has corrected information in its publications and textbooks.

• Address: Yanqing District, China, 102112
• Ticket price: RMB 35 per person (low season October – December), RMB 40 per person (peak season March – June)
• Hours: 9 AM – 4:30 PM
• Bus routes: No. 1, 4, 5

Great Wall of Badaling

The Great Wall is one of the greatest architectural works in the entire world with the longest history, the most cultural significance, the most magnificent buildings, and the most beautiful landscapes. Badaling Ancient is one of the highlights of the Great Wall. Every year, thousands of tourists from all over the world come to visit this pass. Currently, the length of the Great Wall at Badaling is 3,741 kilometers. You can visit the attraction in all four seasons of the year. This place was officially open for visitors to explore in 1958 and soon became part of the Great Wall most visited by tourists.

• Ticket price: RMB 35 (low season), RMB 40 (peak season)
• Hours: 7:30 AM – 6 PM

Temple of Heaven – Tiantan Park (# must visit places in beijing)

This is a complex of buildings in Southeast Beijing, east of Yondingmennei Road, Chongwen District. With a total area of up to 2.7 million square meters, this is one of the largest ancient locations for offerings in China. People’s Cultural Place located on the east side of Tiananmen Square was formerly a royal place to worship ancestors while Zhongshan Park on the west side was formerly agricultural land governed by Shennong.

Among the ancient temples of worship in Beijing, the Temple of Heaven is considered the largest and most extraordinary building. It was built in the 18th year of Ming Emperor Yongle (1420) and was later renovated by Emperor Qianlong and Guangxu. This is where the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties in the past chose to hold rituals for worshipping heaven in Beijing and praying for a good harvest.

The Temple of Heaven consists of 3 building complexes: The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, The Imperial Vault of Heaven, and The Circular Mound Altar. On the winter solstice every year, the emperor and all his courtiers come here to conduct rituals to pray for good harvests and favorable weather.

In 1998, the Temple of Heaven was recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site. The Temple of Heaven is a famous beautiful tourist destination in Beijing and is also the largest of the four remaining platforms: Temple of the Sun, Temple of the Earth, and Temple of the Moon.

• Address: 1 Tiantan E Rd, Dong Cheng Qu, China, 100061
• Ticket price: RMB 10 (low season), RMB 15 (peak season)
• Hours: 6 AM – 8 PM

Wangfujing Street (# must see places in beijing)

The street stretching about 3 miles from East Chang’an Road to the China Art Museum is considered the most famous commercial zone in Beijing. During the Liao and Jin dynasties, Wangfujing was just a small village. Then, from the Yuan Dynasty to the Ming Dynasty, this place eventually developed with up to 10 new palaces being built. Wangfujing was renamed Shiwangfu Street.

If you want to visit the busiest place in Beijing, let’s go to Wangfujing. You can purchase many items here from clothes to jewelry. The attraction is considered a “golden land” in the true sense.

• Address: Wangfujing Dajie, Dongcheng Qu, Beijing, China, 100006

Tiananmen Square (# top places to visit in beijing)

Tiananmen is Beijing’s largest square named after “Tiananmen” – the city gate on the north that separates it from the Forbidden City. This square is about 880 meters long and about 500 meters wide, making a total area of 440,000 square meters. Its capacity is up to 1 million people, naming it the largest square in the world. This place once marked an important milestone in Beijing’s history with the May Fourth Movement, the December 9th Movement, and the 2020 Movement. You will find the Monument to the People’s Heroes here. The Great Hall of People is on the west side of the square, on the east is the National Museum of China and Museum of Chinese History, and on the south is the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall.

Tiananmen Square constructed in 1414 is a symbol of Beijing tourism in particular and China in general. After the 1911 Revolution, the place was rebuilt and expanded, and in 1958, it was rebuilt on a larger scale. Tiananmen Square is surrounded by red walls, located between two majestic and massive gates Qianmen to the south and Tiananmen to the north.

Along the square are architectural works of other famous historical sites in Beijing such as the Great Hall of People, the Museum of Chinese History, and Chang’an Avenue. Coming to visit Tiananmen Square, you should stop by Mao Zedong’s mausoleum and the Heroes’ mausoleum to better understand the history of the country.

• Address: Located in the city center, surrounded by other historical relics such as Qianmen, Chairman Mao Memorial Hall, and so on
• Ticket price: RMB 15 per person
• Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
• Bus routes: No. 1, 4, 20, 52, 57

Peking University (# where to visit in beijing)

It is the most comprehensive university in China with many different majors from science and technology to humanities and medicine. The school was founded in 1898 as the first university established by the Central Government and is considered the beginning of modern Chinese education.

At the time of its establishment, it was the most prestigious school and the highest educational administrative body in China, a continuation of ancient Chinese higher education in modern life. This is also the earliest place to spread Marxism and Democratic Science in China.

• Address: 5 Yiheyuan Rd, Hai Dian Qu, Bei Jing Shi, China, 100871

Yunmengshan National Forest Park

Mt. Yunmengshan, meaning Little Yellow Mountain, is located at the intersection of Miyun and Huarou counties. It was formerly known as Yunmengshan Mountain, a famous tourist destination on the outskirts of Beijing. This is also the most famous national forest park in Beijing. Visitors will have the opportunity to admire the magnificence of nature with high mountain ranges covered by white clouds, deep valleys, mountain peaks with many different shapes, and beautiful waterfalls like a strand of hair with lots of rich and rare species of flora and fauna.

The total area of Yunmengshan is around 2,208 hectares with the main peak reaching 1,414 meters above sea level. The climate here is also very cool, fluctuating 6.7 degrees Celsius lower than in the delta. This is a favorite picnic spot for Beijing people in the summer with an average temperature of only 20 – 24 degrees Celsius.

• Address: HM4J+349, Miyun District, Beijing, China, 101513

Bird’s Nest Stadium – The National Stadium

It is a unique architectural work expressing the concept of “science and technology, greenery and humanity” and is also one of the top 10 stadiums with the most unique architecture in the world. The Bird’s Nest is located on the grounds of Beijing Olympic Park with a total area of 11.59 square kilometers. The stadium was built to serve the 2008 Beijing Olympics and is expected to be used again for the 2022 Olympics and Paralympics.

The main structure of the project is created by two structural systems: The main load-bearing structural system includes 24 columns (hollow steel columns) and steel truss, arranged according to strict, geometric principles. Surrounding the main load-bearing system is a system of secondary bars, whose layout looks random. This secondary grid system has a diagrid shape, tilted outward in height (at an angle of 13 degrees compared to the vertical) and gradually curved, converging inside the field to support the roof of the stands. It is the tilted and twisted structure of these secondary mesh systems that create the image of sticks and fibers woven together in bird nests.

• Address: 1 Guojiatiyuchang S Rd, Chao Yang Qu, China, 100101, at the northern end of the city center axis.

Chang’an Avenue

This avenue is located on the main East-West axis of Beijing City, running along from Jianguomen to the west to Fungximen, and Tiananmen Square is located to the north. This is also considered “The First Street of China.” The avenue was built during the Ming Dynasty in the period from 1406 to 1420 at the same time as the Imperial Palace.

The 8-kilometer-long axis of Chang’an Avenue was an important part of the plan for building the capital of Beijing during the Ming Dynasty. The symbol of China – Tiananmen Square – is located on Chang’an Avenue. This avenue also encompasses both sides of the Great Hall of People, Zhongnahai, and many other central offices.

Hutong Old Town

Located right in the city center with an area of over 60 square kilometers, this neighborhood is the clearest expression of Beijing’s formation and development over 800 years. To this day, many roads, alleys, or siheyuan (an ancient square-shaped architectural style, the four sides are tiled houses with a unique structural entrance gate), everything is still preserved perfectly.

Formed and constructed during the Yuan Dynasty, Hutong Old Town is a piece of the soul of the capital Beijing even though it has been through many years. The ancient, mossy roofs with remaining old features plus the location next to the Forbidden City make this place even more attractive in the eyes of tourists.

Thirteen Tombs of the Ming Dynasty are located in Changping District, about 42 kilometers north-northwest of the center of Beijing. This is a collection of mausoleums built by Ming dynasty emperors throughout Chinese history.

This tomb complex is located on the southern slope of Tianshou Mountain, based on the feng shui principles of the third Ming emperor, Ming Chengzu. After building the Imperial Palace or the Forbidden City in 1420, he chose the location and built his mausoleum. The Ming Dynasty emperors later built their tombs in the same valley area with a total of 13 emperors, 23 empresses, and many other concubines choosing to be buried there.

Currently, the Ming Tombs are part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site called the Ming-Qing Royal Tombs.

• Address: 764F+3C3, Changchi Rd, Chang Ping Qu, China, 102200
• Ticket price: Changling Tomb: RMB 30-45 Dingling Tomb: RMB 40-60
• Hours: 8 AM – 5:30 PM

China Central Television Tower (CCTV)

With an overall height reaching 405 meters, CCTV is one of the tallest towers in the world and if you are not afraid of heights, let’s go to the observatory at 238 meters where you can see the entire landscape of Beijing. It will be an interesting experience. You can also use binoculars to observe the Forbidden City and Summer Palace in the distance.

China Central Television Tower is located in the Haidian District, near Gongzhufen Railway Station. This is not only the headquarters of China Central Television (CCTV) but also a tourist destination you cannot miss when traveling to Beijing. A small note is that to visit the tower, you must buy a ticket to go to the top floors. However, visitors will receive free admission tickets when dining at the restaurant.

• Address: 32 E 3rd Ring Middle Rd, 呼家楼 Chaoyang, China, 100020
• Ticket price: RMB 90
• Hours: 8:30 AM – 10 PM

In addition to the list of the top 15+ most famous landmarks in Beijing that we have compiled above, there are still many other interesting places for you to explore such as Jiu Men Snack Street, China National Opera House, Beijing National Aquatics Center, and so on. We hope you have a great experience in Beijing!

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Beijing you can refer to

• Beijing Palace Museum Ticket (The Forbidden City)
• [Cool Summer] Universal Beijing Resort Ticket
• [Sale] Mutianyu Great Wall Day Tour from Beijing (With Pick Up)
• Summer Palace (Yiheyuan) Admission Ticket in Beijing
• [Up to 20% Off] Private City Transfers for Mutianyu Great Wall in Beijing
• Mutianyu Great Wall Day Tour by Bus with Options
• [Sale] Mutianyu Great Wall-Downtown Beijing Round Trip Bus Pass
• Mutianyu Great Wall Ticket & Cable Car
• The Old Summer Palace (Yuanmingyuan) Ticket in Beijing
• Beijing Wildlife Park Admission Ticket
• Beijing Happy Valley Ticket
• CMHK | HK 7 Days unlimited data + 200 HK Local Mins + 1GB Mainland China and Macau data (HK Airport Pick Up)
• [Thailand Pick Up] Dtac GO INTER SIM Card Zone 1(Asia, Australia, USA, exclude Thailand)
• 4G LTE WiFi (MNL Airport Pick Up) for Asia
• 4G Portable WiFi (Manila Delivery) for Asia
• [Unlimited Data] 4G Portable WiFi for Mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau from Uroaming (HK Airport Pick Up)
• 4G WiFi (HK Airport Pick Up) for Hong Kong/Macau/China (No Speed Limited) from Song WiFi

Read more Bejing guide: Beijing travel blog — The fullest Beijing travel guide for first-timers

Related articles

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Where to go in keelung 11+ top keelung attractions & best keelung places to visit, guide to joo chiat singapore. what to do & top things to do in joo chiat, 7 days in hawaii itinerary. how to spend hawaii itinerary 1 week for independent travelers.

Hawaii travel blog — The fullest Hawaii travel guide for first-timers

Bohol blog. The ultimate guide to the island of Bohol

Suggested Tokyo travel itinerary 3 days. How to spend 3 days in Tokyo on a budget

Where to go in Hsinchu? 14 famous attractions, best places to visit in Hsinchu

21+ best places to visit Korea in autumn

Editor picks.

Where to go in Keelung? 11+ top Keelung attractions & best...

Guide to Joo Chiat Singapore. What to do & top things...

7 days in Hawaii itinerary. How to spend Hawaii itinerary 1...

Popular posts.

What to buy in USA? — 17+ must buy in USA...

What to buy in Korea? — Top +23 cheap, famous &...

Must buy souvenir in Taiwan — Top 17+ most famous, cheap...

Popular category.

• Inspiration + Guide 1526
• Trip Inspiration 468
• Food + Drink 223
• Thailand 216
• Coasts + Islands 200
• South Korea 179
• Vietnam 172
• Travel Photos 144
• Work for Us
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy

Today's Digital Daily

site categories

Parent item expand the sub menu, review: proenza schouler is done with quiet luxury, erik and pete nordstrom offer to buy retailer, naomi campbell, anna wintour in war of words at harlem’s fashion row, the newest shops, eateries and more to visit in beijing that reflect past and present.

From ancient splendor to hipster alleyways, here's what the Forbidden City has to offer.

• Share this article on Facebook
• Share this article on X
• Share this article on Flipboard
• Share this article on Pin It
• Share this article on Tumblr
• Share this article on Reddit
• Share this article on LinkedIn
• Share this article on WhatsApp
• Share this article on Email
• Print this article
• Share this article on Talk

Beijing is a city with a storied past and ambitious future. Its central axis, which boosts ceremonial buildings that date back as early as the 13th century, is a breathtaking sight to behold; its more recent creations, grand in size but eclectic in style, are testaments to its people’s aspirations.

Related Articles

21 must-have fashion and beauty products to invest in for fall, what a dessert fork says about modern manners, you may also like, where to shop.

Postpost 2.0

With an obsession for intellectualized fashion, Postpost’s second store opened at a more downtown location inside a former worker’s canteen near the Sanlitun shopping district. With an aspiration to build an alternative universe which, for founder Xiao Yong, can be a respite from the frantic internet world, the bookstore and fashion shop’s selection of independent magazines, vinyl, unisex clothing, coffee and alcohol has helped it attract a loyal following. Offering a space for the city’s underground youth, Postpost 2.0 often hosts weekend parties with experimental sounds from lesser-known parts of the world.

Xingfu Sancun Alley 5, Chaoyang District

Heyan’er

Founded in 1994, Heyan’er is a retail and research platform that collects, preserves and studies traditional Chinese textiles. The standalone shop was recently renovated to include an exhibition space and a cafe. Focused on sustainability and upcycling, the brand “Mengji Nongga” (“go eat at home” in the Guizhou dialect) was born, which expands on its lexicon of traditional craftsmanship — this time to include homeware.

No.15-2 Gongtibei Road, Chaoyang District

The sixth and latest iteration of Anchoret, an anchor independent fashion retailer in the youthful Sanlitun area, has landed in a nearby alleyway, neighboring Postpost 2.0. The Brutalist structure, designed to reflect the shop’s reclusive ethos, offers a selection of edgy designs created by enigmatic individuals, such as Paul Harnden, Ziggy Chen, Rick Owens and Maurizio Amadei.

Xingfu Sancun Alley 5, Western Entrance, Chaoyang District

What to Eat

Louyau Restaurant

The latest addition to Beijing’s growing stable of authentic Cantonese food is Louyau Restaurant, located in an expansive Hong Kong-style tea house in the recently renovated Liang Ma River area. Some cuisines constantly adapt, evolve and simplify, but Louyau, helmed by Cantonese chefs, sticks to the arduously prepared classics, such as the glazed roast suckling pig, simmering dim sums, and paper-wrapped salt and pepper chicken.

A fine dining institution since 2012, TRB Hutong is located within a temple courtyard — an ideal location to get a sense of old Beijing. It was also where Louis Vuitton creative director of women’s collections Nicolas Ghesquière hosted his Beijing banquet during last year’s market visit. The one-star Michelin French restaurant, filled with contemporary art in its courtyard, was formerly a 600-year-old temple hidden in the traditional Hutong neighborhood. TRB Hutong’s latest palette-pleasing menu includes Ningxia lamb accompanied by refreshing herbs, succulent New Zealand langoustine and Wagyu beef accompanied by Yunnan mashed potatoes.

23 Shatan North Street, Dongcheng District

Spring Patio

Offering an “under the moon in the mountain” view, Spring Patio serves up sweet, sour, and spicy Yunnan cuisine that can excite or even shock the palette. Dai-style deep-fried pork rind, stewed rice with wild ganba mushrooms and truffle sausage, and a classic local treat, rice pasta with fresh herbs and spices, are all made with produce shipped from Yunnan. Its wine selection offers a refreshing pairing with local street foods, such as “dairy fans” or simply a Yunnan sausage platter, according to Simeng Guo, the restaurant’s cofounder.

No.19, Sanlitun Road Sanlitun Taikoo Li South Area Floor 3 , Chaoyang District

What to See

” Lawrence Weiner: A Pursuit of Happiness ASAP “

798 Art District No 4 Jiuxianqiao Lu Chaoyang District, UCCA

“ Splendor on the Walls “

Hanging screens (which are wall-mounted versions of freestanding folding screens), were an integral part of Chinese court decor during the Qing Dynasty. With 60 hanging screens, including rare gold-threaded ones, and related works on display, the exhibition is a first for a craft and artistry that reached its zenith during the period. Visitors are advised to book a slot in the museum’s WeChat Mini Program before visiting. The exhibition runs until Nov. 3.

4 Jingshan Front Street, Dongcheng District , The Palace Museum

“Portrait of a Man”

“Portrait of a Man,” X Museum’s first exhibition since appointing Yang You (formerly UCCA) as director, focuses on the idea of male image and identity formation. Featuring around 70 recent works by 61 contemporary artists, most of whom were born after 1980, the exhibition includes paintings, sculptures, photographs, videos and relevant literature that offer a non-linear assessment of what male portraiture means today and where it might be heading. Highlights of the show include an Issy Wood painting of Chinese celebrity Jackson Yee and two works featuring the X Museum cofounder, socialite Michael Xufu Huang. The exhibition runs until Oct. 20.

Langyuan Station, E1 (Building 10), No. 53 Banjie Tower Road , Chaoyang District

“Folk in Order”

The “unofficial, self-organized, and people-powered” tradition of folk art is the theme of a new show at Macalline Center of Art, a nonprofit art organization founded by a Chinese furniture giant that bears the same name. From the mythical scroll paintings of Guo Fengyi, to the queering paper cut works by Xiyadie, and ancient folklore sutra chanting collected by the collective Easternization Movement Development Commission, the exhibition “Folk in Order” uncovers the hidden beauty and “spontaneous creativity” of the folk experience, the exhibition’s curator Wang Huan wrote in a curatorial note. The exhibition is on view until Oct. 13.

Sign up for WWD news straight to your inbox every day

WWD Recommends

I-d magazine relaunches website with charli xcx, troye sivan on digital cover.

• By Hikmat Mohammed

The Venice Film Festival Looks We Can’t Stop Looking At

• Fashion Features
• By Leigh Nordstrom and Alex Badia

What’s the Must-have Look for Fall 2024? A Blank Expression

‘strange darling’ star willa fitzgerald ‘loved’ working with these industry veterans.

WWD and Women's Wear Daily are part of Penske Media Corporation. © 2024 Fairchild Publishing, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Fashion Expand fashion menu

• Fashion Trends
• Fashion Scoops
• Designer & Luxury
• Ready-To-Wear
• Accessories

Business Expand business menu

• Government & Trade
• Mergers & Acquisitions
• Marketing & Promotion
• Human Resources
• Business Features
• Real Estate

Beauty Expand beauty menu

• Beauty Features

Men's Expand mens menu

• Mens Accessories
• Mens Clothing Furnishings
• Mens Designer Luxury
• Mens Lifestyle
• Mens Retail Business
• Mens Sportswear
• Mens Fashion

Runway Expand runway menu

• Men’s Fall 2024
• Pre-Fall 2024
• Spring Ready-to-Wear 2024
• Fall Couture 2023
• Resort 2024

Denim Expand denim menu

Sustainability expand sustainability menu.

• Environment
• Social Impact

Home/Design Expand home-design menu

• Interior Design
• Architecture

WWD Weekend Expand wwd-weekend menu

Special series expand special-series menu.

• Leading Voices in Fashion and Beauty
• Fairchild Live
• RetailRx Community

Events Expand events menu

Eye expand eye menu.

• Celebrity Real Estate

Shop Expand shop menu

Beijing Unveils New Brochure and Website to Enhance Visitor Experience

Beijing is proud to announce the launch of a new brochure designed to enhance the experience of first-time visitors to the capital city. 

The brochure, available in both printed and digital formats, titled "Welcome to Beijing: Essential Tips for New Arrivals," is a practical, convenient, and aesthetically pleasing resource tailored for first-time foreign visitors. It highlights the practical elements travelers must know – things like mobile payment systems and public transportation – as well as offering a quick bird's-eye view of Beijing's unique cultural and modern attractions. 

Included in the succinct brochure is everything a new arrival needs to know to get their Beijing visit started, including basic details on:

Getting Connected: How to access local mobile phone and WiFi service and a list of the essential Apps you need to maximize your visit

Payment Services: All visitors need to know about cash, credit and digital payments in China

Transportation: taxis, metro, buses, ride-hailing, shared bikes

Entertainment: including food, nightlife, from the traditional to the contemporary -- just enough to get your explorations started, whether you're looking to try Peking Duck or one of the vast arrays of international cuisines available in the city

Top Tourist Spots: Beijing's famous landmarks, from ancient to modern-day

Shopping: From luxury shopping centers to avant-garde streetside boutiques, and everything in-between

Medical Services: How to access bilingual and international medical services

The brochure showcases the charm of Beijing by presenting the city's iconic landmarks throughout the four seasons.

It also features images of the Beijing Swift, a bird that travels thousands of kilometers across numerous countries each year but always returns to Beijing every spring. This symbolizes the city's warm invitation for visitors to return to Beijing time and again.

In addition to the brochure, a linked mini website provides more in-depth information. Visitors can access the full guide and specific category guides by scanning the QR codes provided in the brochure. The website maintains consistency with the brochure's design, ensuring a cohesive and efficient user experience. 

The launch of the brochure underscores Beijing's commitment to continually improving services to welcome foreign tourists and business travelers to the city.

To access the digital version, please scan the QR code below:

Related Articles

Ramaphosa heads to China for State Visit and FOCAC Summit flanked by Cabinet ministers including John Steenhuisen

P resident Cyril Ramaphosa, at the invitation of President Xi Jinping is undertaking a State Visit to the People’s Republic of China, where he will also participate at the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit.

The State Visit and FOCAC Summit will take place in Beijing from Monday to Thursday next week.

President Cyril Ramaphosa hosted President Xi Jinping on his fourth State Visit to South Africa in August last year in the City of Tshwane, cementing 25 years of strong bonds of friendship and cooperation the two countries enjoy since establishing formal diplomatic relations in 1998.

“China is South Africa's largest trading partner globally, while South Africa is China’s number one trading partner in Africa. Total bilateral trade grew from R614 billion in 2022 to R692 billion in 2023,” said Vincent Magwenya, spokesperson for the Presidency in Tshwane.

On Monday, Ramaphosa’s State Visit to China officially commences with a welcome ceremony at the Great Hall of the People.

Magwenya said ahead of the bilateral engagement, Ramaphosa would lay a wreath at the Monument to the People’s Heroes at Tiananmen Square in honour of Chinese revolutionaries.

South Africa and China’s bilateral relations are maintained at the level of a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) level, underpinned by a 10-year Strategic Programme of Cooperation (2020-2029).

“South Africa and China will sign agreements that are aimed at enhancing economic cooperation and the implementation of technical cooperation, particularly in the fields of human settlements, agriculture and science and technology,” said Magwenya.

“On Tuesday, September 3, President Ramaphosa will champion South Africa’s economic diplomacy with China by visiting Shenzhen, an economic technology hub in the Guangdong province to interact with industry leaders and tour the headquarters of two tech companies as part of the bilateral business programme of the State Visit.”

Ramaphosa will address the South Africa-China Business Forum on Wednesday on the margins of the FOCAC Summit in Beijing.

On Thursday, Ramaphosa will participate in the FOCAC Summit held under the theme “Joining hands to advance modernisation and build a high-level China-Africa community with a shared future”.

“The president will co-chair, with the chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, Mr Wang Huning, the high-level panel seminar on accompanying Africa in industrialisation, agricultural modernisation and green development to embark on the path to modernisation,” said Magwenya.

He said South Africa’s participation at FOCAC is driven by a constant advancement of Africa’s position on development as outlined by the African Union’s Agenda 2063: “The Africa we want” and its related flagship programmes.

A declaration and action plan 2025-2027 will be issued as the outcome documents of the 2024 FOCAC Summit.

Ramaphosa will be accompanied by a delegation of Cabinet ministers in portfolios including international relations and cooperation; science, technology and innovation; human settlements; small business development; the Presidency; trade industry and competition; electricity and energy; public works and infrastructure; higher education, and agriculture.

The President will also be accompanied by Premier of Eastern Cape, Oscar Mabuyane and Limpopo Premier Phophi Ramathuba as well as senior government officials.

• Center For International Exchanges Headlines Conference Events Information
• Sister Cities Sister Cities of Beijing Latest News Asia Africa Europe North America South America Oceania Other Cities Latest News Asia Africa Europe North America South America Oceania Sister Cities of District Latest News Dongcheng District Xicheng District Chaoyang District Haidian District Fengtai District More
• Policy Release Two Zones Construction Belt & Road Others
• Public Service Consular Protection Travel Alerts How to Seek Consular Protection Access to Foreign Languages Public Sign Database Help Us Improve English Public Signs Errors in English Public Signs Beijing Speaks Foreign Languages Program Public Diplomacy People-to-People Diplomacy
• Home  > Express

Beijing is proud to announce the launch of a new brochure designed to enhance the experience of first-time visitors to the capital city.

The brochure, available in both printed and digital formats, titled " Welcome to Beijing: Essential Tips for New Arrivals ," is a practical, convenient, and aesthetically pleasing resource tailored for first-time foreign visitors. It highlights the practical elements travelers must know – things like mobile payment systems and public transportation – as well as offering a quick bird's-eye view of Beijing's unique cultural and modern attractions.

Included in the succinct brochure is everything a new arrival needs to know to get their Beijing visit started, including basic details on:

Getting Connected

How to access local mobile phone and WiFi service and a list of the essential Apps you need to maximize your visit

Payment Services

All visitors need to know about cash, credit and digital payments in China.

Transportation

Taxis, metro, buses, ride-hailing, shared bikes.

Entertainment

Including food, nightlife, from the traditional to the contemporary -- just enough to get your explorations started, whether you're looking to try Peking Duck or one of the vast arrays of international cuisines available in the city.

Top Tourist Spots

Beijing's famous landmarks , from ancient to modern-day.

From luxury shopping centers to avant-garde streetside boutiques , and everything in-between.

Medical Services

How to access bilingual and international medical services.

The brochure showcases the charm of Beijing by presenting the city's iconic landmarks throughout the four seasons.It also features images of the Beijing Swift, a bird that travels thousands of kilometers across numerous countries each year but always returns to Beijing every spring. This symbolizes the city’s warm invitation for visitors to return to Beijing time and again.

The Beijing Foreign Affairs Office, which spearheaded the project, also created a mini website linked to the brochure via QR codes to provide more in-depth information. The website maintains consistency with the brochure's design, ensuring a cohesive and efficient user experience.

The launch of the brochure underscores Beijing's commitment to continually improving services to welcome foreign tourists and business travelers to the city.

To access the digital version, please scan the QR code below:

北京发布《境外初次来京人员城市服务指南》

ICP Filing No.: JICPB No. 2020041226 Beijing Public Security Filing No.: 11010102001436

Government Website ID Code: 1100000175

Technical Support: Information Center of Foreign Affairs Office of Beijing Municipal Government

Welcome to Africanews

Please select your experience

• Science & Technology
• Coronavirus

Breaking News

African heads of state head to Beijing for China-Africa cooperation summit

US-China tensions

African heads of state have begun arriving in the Chinese capital, Beijing, ahead of the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) summit which gets underway on Wednesday.

This ninth gathering is expected to provide a framework for navigating China’s evolving strategic partnership with the continent in the post-Covid era.

It is taking place at a time of rising geopolitical tension that will see Beijing prioritise its position in relation to other world powers.

Climate and energy are expected to be among the key topics for negotiation between Chinese and African stakeholders

Discussions will also focus on digital and technology cooperation in a bid to close Africa’s digital divide.

In the past, FOCAC has yielded notable financial commitments for projects spanning infrastructure, agriculture, and manufacturing.

Experts warn, however, that African countries should use the summit to foster cooperation that is both sustainable and mutually beneficial.

China has been intensifying its efforts to strengthen ties with the Global South.

Analysts say it views these relationships not just as economic opportunities but as crucial to its own broader geopolitical goals.

The investments do not always align with the recipient countries’ needs and development priorities, and are associated with high debt burdens.

Analysts suggest African countries need to rethink the future direction of the partnership.

They say, if approached correctly, FOCAC could foster a new era of cooperation that is both sustainable and mutually beneficial.

The summit runs from 4-6 September.

You may also like

Frustration for Nigerians facing fuel shortage and rising prices

Study: World pumps out 57 million tonnes of plastic pollution a year

Families demand justice amid Congo jailbreak controversy

161 Nigerian students fail UK border checks, denied entry

Ghana to raise cocoa farmgate price

South Sudan: Military court convicts eight soldiers for murder

On the same subject.

China-Africa summit officially kicks off on Wednesday

China-aid port in Cameroon benefits local community

South Africa, China vow stronger ties as Ramaphosa starts state visit

How China-Africa infrastructure deals shape Kenya's economic landscape

Cyril Ramaphosa arrives in Beijing for FOCAC 2024 summit

China's trade with Africa hits 1.19 trl yuan

More stories.

Egypt's president in Turkey as relations between two countries thaw