Embrace the sensory overload that is China’s historical, political and cultural capital. With more than 20 million people, Beijing is the most populous city in China after Shanghai.
Located in the northeast of China, Beijing is culturally and geographically a world away from Western capital cities, but easy to reach by plane. Once in the city, rent a bike or make use of the excellent public transport system to get around. English signage will lead you to most attractions. Driving around Beijing is more complicated, especially if you don’t speak Mandarin.
For one of the best views in Beijing, climb the hill in Jingshan Park and look out over the Forbidden City. Then, descend to Tiananmen Square and gaze up at the Front Gate (Qianmen Gate) before you visit the huge palace complex beyond it.
Back on the square, explore one of the largest museums in the world: the National Museum of China, opposite the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall. To dance, play or exercise with the locals, visit the nearby imperial gardens at Beihai Park.
Away from the busy city center, visit the Summer Palace and the Marco Polo Bridge to see more of the splendor that surrounded China’s mighty emperors. Find some peace and quiet in the Buddhist Lama Temple.
Beijing is not all about imperial history, religion and communism: Contemporary architecture, fine restaurants and fashion-filled malls represent the new China. The 2008 Summer Olympics resulted in Beijing’s redevelopment. See the stadiums in Olympic Park or browse galleries in restored warehouses, such as 798 Space. For souvenirs, take the subway to Wangfujing Street, a popular shopping strip.
You can’t leave Beijing without trying Peking duck, the city’s signature food, served with delicious Chinese noodle and rice dishes. After dark, visit karaoke bars or nightclubs for evening entertainment.
Beijing is an unforgettable experience. Get a taste of traditional and communist China and at the same time see the futuristic designs of the entrepreneurial East.
Beijing
Where to stay in Beijing
Downtown Beijing
Historic sites, museums, and art galleries highlight some notable features of Downtown Beijing. Make a stop by Forbidden City or Peninsula Beijing Shopping Arcade while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Jinyu Hutong Station or Dengshikou Station to get around town.
Wangfujing Shopping Area
Historic sites, art galleries, and museums highlight some notable features of Wangfujing Shopping Area. Make a stop by Forbidden City or Wangfujing Street while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Dengshikou Station or Dongsi Station to get around town.
Chaoyang
Museums, art galleries, and cocktail bars highlight some notable features of Chaoyang. Make a stop by Alien's Street Trade Market or Temple of the Sun while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Dongdaqiao Station or Hujialou Station to get around town.
Dongcheng
Forbidden City and Gui Street are top sights in Dongcheng, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at Zhangzizhonglu Station or Dongsi Station to see more sights in the area.
Haidian
Get to know Haidian and its many features like its museums and monuments. You might want to explore sights like Beijing Botanical Garden and Summer Palace, and you can jump on the metro at Xibeiwang Station or Malianwa Station to get around the city.
Xicheng
Historic sites, museums, and theaters highlight some notable features of Xicheng. Make a stop by Forbidden City or Cultural Palace Of The Nationalities while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Lingjing Hutong Station or Xidan Station to get around town.
Reviewed on May 4, 2024
Reviewed on Apr 30, 2024
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Reviewed on Mar 21, 2024
Popular places to visit
Forbidden City
This formerly restricted imperial palace complex is now a public museum that shows the splendor of the old China. It is one of Beijing’s most impressive sites.
Wangfujing Street
Find the latest fashion or cheap souvenirs and sample local cuisine in this bustling pedestrian-only street, one of the city’s most popular shopping strips.
Great Wall of China
You can find out about the history of Huairou when you stop by Great Wall of China. Discover the area's mountain views and monuments.
Tiananmen Square
One of the most famous squares in the world, this spot is the beating heart of Beijing and has always been the site of mass protests and national celebrations.
Great Wall of China
See terracotta warriors, ancient temples and Ming Dynasty architecture at the Juyongguan section of one of the most spectacular tourist attractions in the world.
Sanlitun Road
During your trip to Beijing, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Sanlitun Road. While in this walkable area, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.
Things to do
Great Wall at Badaling, Forbidden City, TAM Square Day Tour
Beijing Multi Days Tours - 2 or 3 Days Combined Tours
Private trip to Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace by English Driver
Hanging Temple and Yungang Grottoes in one day(17-hour tour)
All Inclusive Tour to Forbidden City,Tiananmen Square and Hutong
Mini Group: Beijing Forbidden City Tour with Great Wall Hiking at Mutianyu
Reviews of Beijing
4/5 - Good
Have been there many times. Much to see.
4/5 - Good
I like Beijing and have visited several times before. I had planned this trip ahead of time thinking that Beijing would be a great place to be to celebrate the Chinese New Year. But, the "Virus" showed up and pretty much could not do anything!!!!!!
3/5 - Okay
Beijing has so many good things and metro is efficient and clean. But too many people smoke outside and spit on the ground.
4/5 - Good
its more expensive than other Chinese cities. Buy water bottles at a convenience store as they are upcharged at attractions. Use the subway because it takes you everywhere and taxis are often VERY pricey and some refuse to use the meter
5/5 - Excellent
Everyone was friendly and very accommodating. I don't speak much Chinese, but everyone was helpful.
4/5 - Good
Traffic is a problem in Beijing now. Better to walk if possible, but wrap up warm if you visit in January like we did Most overnight lows were minus 10 degrees Celsius
