Things to Do in Beijing

Silks, electronics and bargain fashions are just some of the wares on offer at this busy multi-level indoor market.

A surprise find in Beijing is this former communist building, which now showcases the artists and designers of the “New China.”

Climb the steep steps to the top of these ancient Beijing landmarks to learn about their history and enjoy panoramic views over the old city below.

Peruse the thousands of stalls to find Chinese arts, crafts, memorabilia and antiques at Beijing’s largest and most famous antique market. 

View the entombed body of Chairman Mao Zedong, which rests within his vast mausoleum in the middle of the famous Tiananmen Square.

Enjoy panoramic views over Beijing and a sunset dinner in a rotating restaurant at the tallest landmark in the city.

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.

Pose next to some very alive-looking tigers, race a dinosaur on a bike, visit the aquarium and research the evolution of humans and plant and animal species.

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.

This grand structure was the original front gate to the once-walled city of Beijing. Climb to the top for fantastic views over its archery tower and Tiananmen Square.

Behind a high wall stands an ancient building once used in sacrifices. This huge historical place of worship is a quiet oasis in busy Beijing.

This idyllic public park was once the summer retreat of the Qing Dynasty. It houses the iconic Boat of Purity and Ease.

Created more than a thousand years ago as an imperial garden, this huge green space wrapped around a lake is an oasis in Beijing’s bustling city center.

Visit one of the finest places of worship in Beijing, which is still an active Buddhist monastery, to see frescoes, huge Buddha statues and Chinese decorations.

This impressive bridge with hundreds of lion sculptures has gained world fame as the site of a clash between Chinese and Japanese troops.

In one of the largest museums in the world, the amazing collection of valuable relics include rare bronze and porcelain objects, jade artifacts and artworks.

Get the best views of central Beijing, the Forbidden City and the White Dagoba in Beihai Park from the hill in this former royal garden.

These once extravagant imperial palaces and gardens were all but destroyed in the 19th-century, but the crumbling ruins are still worth visiting.

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.

See terracotta warriors, ancient temples and Ming Dynasty architecture at the Juyongguan section of one of the most spectacular tourist attractions in the world.

Join locals as they enjoy downtime at one of Beijing’s prettiest locales, characterized by its lakes, old houses, vibrant nightlife and outdoor activities. 

Constructed for the 2008 Summer Olympics, this hub of stadiums and sporting arenas features the landmark Bird’s Nest Stadium, a water park and mall.