Top Things to do in Beijing: Best Activities & Must-Sees

Author's Profile Picture

By Tina

May 26, 2026

Top Things to do in Beijing: Best Activities & Must-Sees

Whether you're into imperial history, charming hutongs, or local cuisine, there are amazing things to do in Beijing for you. Trip.com brings you the city's top activities and unmissable sights, from the Forbidden City and the Great Wall to authentic neighborhoods, cultural highlights, and delicious local specialties you simply can't miss.

⭐ Top Things to Do in Beijing

📅 What to Do in Beijing Based on Your Stay

Whether you've got a whirlwind day trip planned or a whole week to immerse yourself, here are our top itinerary suggestions, perfectly tailored for every kind of traveller – be it couples, families, or friends!

Duration

Couples

Family

Friends

1 day

Forbidden City + a spectacular sunset at Jingshan Park

Tiananmen Square and a thrilling tuk-tuk adventure through the Hutongs

Wangfujing Street Food + Houhai Lake Stroll

2-3 days

Temple of Heaven + romantic Peking Duck dinner

Mutianyu Great Wall & a fabulous shopping trip to Wangfujing

Daytime adventures, followed by an unforgettable evening in Sanlitun or the buzzing bar district!

4-5 days

Summer Palace Adventure: Unwind with a Spa Session or a Delightful Dinner Cruise

Lama Temple, Science Museum, Great Wall, and a delightful boat trip

Great Wall Tour + 798 Art District + Summer Palace

1 week

Adventures to Chengde and the Ming Tombs, plus Parks, Attractions, and Spa

Zoo, aquarium, shopping, plus Universal Studios if open

Chengde and Jinshanling Adventures, 798 Art District, Cooking Class, and Ming Tombs

🏮 Must-Visit Areas in Beijing

How can you possibly visit Beijing without diving into the unmissable districts of China's vibrant capital, exploring both its traditional Hutongs and its sleek, modern areas? From its ancient heart to its ultra-modern zones, every single neighbourhood boasts a unique vibe that will truly sweep you away on an unforgettable journey.

Here's our hand-picked selection of neighbourhoods you absolutely won't want to miss during your stay.

The Hutongs: Authentic Old Beijing

The hutongs are Beijing's historic heart and soul, a fascinating labyrinth of narrow alleyways that have witnessed over 700 years of history. These traditional neighbourhoods are made up of siheyuan (typical courtyard houses) and offer a true journey back in time. The word 'hutong' comes from the Mongolian 'khudag', meaning 'water well'.

To truly discover the authentic charm of the hutongs, we highly recommend getting wonderfully lost in their winding alleyways – that's where you'll truly immerse yourself in the local culture!

You'll discover some of the most enchanting neighbourhoods nestled close to the Forbidden City and gracefully winding around the historic Drum and Bell Towers. Imagine strolling through, spotting locals engrossed in games of mahjong and lively street vendors, all while soaking in a wonderfully peaceful atmosphere.

📌 Trip.com's Top Tip: A tuk-tuk tour is an absolutely brilliant way to explore the hutongs while savouring the local cuisine! These culinary adventures whisk you away to authentic eateries you'd be hard-pressed to discover on your own. You'll get to tuck into delicious handmade noodles, succulent grilled meats, and even pop into a local brewery!

Wangfujing: Beijing's Shopping Heart

Wangfujing is Beijing's most famous shopping street and the perfect spot to combine some retail therapy with delicious food! This ultra-modern pedestrian avenue stretches for over a kilometre. It's kind of like Beijing's very own Times Square, where life never stops, from dawn till dusk and beyond!

By day, you can explore grand department stores like Wangfujing Department Store and Oriental Plaza, perfect for a spot of international brand shopping. As evening falls, the famous Wangfujing Snack Street truly comes alive, sparkling with a thousand lights!

It offers a truly unique culinary adventure with its bustling street food stalls, where you can discover everything from grilled scorpions and insect skewers to candied fruits and delightful Beijing specialities.

Sanlitun: Nightlife & Shopping

Fancy discovering Beijing's nightlife and unearthing its very best spots? Sanlitun is absolutely the district for you, and without a doubt, Beijing's trendiest!

Boasting over 50 bars and nightclubs, this vibrant party hub is the ultimate meeting point for international travellers, expats, and trendy young Beijingers. If you're craving a taste of home or just a lively Western-style break, Sanlitun is absolutely the perfect destination!

However, Sanlitun isn't just about its buzzing nightlife; it's also a dazzling hub for fashion and shopping. The Taikoo Li Sanlitun shopping centre is a cutting-edge complex, home to a fantastic array of brands: Apple, Adidas, Uniqlo, Nike, Starbucks, and so many more.

798 Art District: Beijing's Creative Hub

Get ready for a change of pace and immerse yourself in Beijing's vibrant creativity! The 798 Art District is the beating heart of contemporary art in China. This trendy district is housed in former 1950s military factories, featuring unique Bauhaus-style industrial architecture.

A little backstory: artists transformed these abandoned workshops into vibrant studios, sparking Beijing's avant-garde art scene. Today, 798 is a buzzing creative hub, home to over 200 art galleries, museums, trendy cafés, and unique design boutiques.

📌 Trip.com's Insider Tip: Most galleries open their doors after 10:00 AM, and entry is absolutely free!

🎁 Exclusive Offers For You:
Hotels: Save up to 10% (Book online or on Mobile)
Homes & Apts: Save up to £39 (App-only deal)

Best hotels in Beijing

5 star

Sofitel Beijing Central （Accor Hotels）

9.2/10Very Good13030 Reviews
Guomao Area Beijing|2.52km from city centre
This stay at the Sofitel Jian Guo Men left me with a great overall impression. Before arriving, I communicated with the duty manager, Eli, letting him know it was our first stay and that it coincided with our anniversary. Upon check-in, he immediately upgraded us to an Executive Floor room and had it specially decorated. The attention to detail was exceptional, and we were incredibly impressed from the moment we arrived. The first impression upon entering was excellent. The lobby had incredibly high ceilings and a grand, bright decor, completely avoiding the oppressive feeling you sometimes get in older hotels. The layout of the Executive Room was also quite interesting; it wasn't just a generic square box. The space was well-utilized, making it feel much more spacious than I had imagined. The service overall was hassle-free. Whether it was dealing with the front desk or requesting room service, any issues were addressed very quickly, with no need for back-and-forth. In the evening, I specifically went to the bar on the basement level. The bartender, Pamper, was very amiable. She asked about my preferred tastes, and the cocktails she made were perfectly to my liking. Overall, it's a hotel with excellent value for money and well worth staying at.
From£86

Grand Millennium Beijing

8.8/105887 Reviews
Guomao Area Beijing|4.64km from city centre
During the October Golden Week holiday, I chose the Dragon Dream Hotel in Shenyang and had a very comfortable stay. The room was bright with large floor-to-ceiling windows offering a great view. The bedding was clean and comfortable, and the room was spacious. The adjacent mall had dining options and a subway station, which was just one stop away from Zhongjie Street. There were free parking spaces available both above ground and in the basement. The front desk staff and the duty manager were always friendly and attentive. They were also helpful and met any reasonable requests. Overall, it was a very pleasant experience!
From£94

Jen Beijing by Shangri-La

9.3/10Very Good5290 Reviews
Guomao Area Beijing|4.7km from city centre
Room: This time I stayed in room 2007. Last time, my friend and I stayed in 1008. The difference is that 2007 has a king-sized bed, while 1008 has twin beds. The twin room has a very hard yellow sofa by the window, whereas the king-sized bed room has a desk. So, if you want a better experience enjoying the Third Ring Road from the window, you might prefer the twin room. 35 Tang (restaurant): I was quite surprised. Honestly, I've stayed in many hotels in Beijing, but 35 Tang is truly unique in how its breakfast incorporates Beijing characteristics. And the food tastes good too. So, when booking, you might want to add breakfast. Plus, there are many tables with views of the 'Big Trousers' (CCTV Headquarters), which is really pleasant. Gym: The 0.5 deduction in facilities is actually for 'Refinery'. I used to work nearby and had a membership at Refinery. However, during this stay, I noticed that the floor maintenance was really poor, including the equipment. But everything else, from the view to the changing rooms, is actually quite good. Parking: You need to park at China World Mall, it's 10 yuan/hour with no cap. If you have a China World membership, you can drive out and circle around when your time is up, then re-enter to restart the billing. This can save you some money. Overall: China World Summit Wing is a hotel with excellent value for money and an extremely satisfying experience!
From£117

Capital Hotel（the Forbidden City，Tiananmen）

9.4/10Outstanding6071 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|0.31km from city centre
Had a wonderful stay at the Capital Hotel. The room was clean and tidy, and the breakfast offered a great variety of choices. The staff were warm and attentive. It's in a prime location, very close to attractions like Tiananmen Square, with convenient transport that made getting around completely hassle-free. Overall, a fantastic experience and definitely worth staying here.
From£73

EAST Beijing

9.3/10Very Good2247 Reviews
Wangjing Area Beijing|10.18km from city centre
Stumbled upon a gem of a hotel for my business trip to Beijing – EAST Beijing! My experience here was absolutely fantastic. The staff were incredibly responsive and efficient, and their attitude was so warm and friendly, making me feel right at home, like family. There's a free co-working space on the second floor, with many people working quietly and comfortably – it's perfect for business travelers. The hotel is directly connected to a mall, making dining and shopping super convenient, all in one place! Plus, it's only about a 2-minute walk from the subway entrance, so transportation is a breeze. It's a great choice whether you're on a business trip or just a short stay. I'll definitely choose this place again on my next visit to Beijing! 👍
From£73

Show more

Business travel

Beijing Xinqiao Hotel

9.1/10Good10636 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|0.86km from city centre
This is my second time staying here. The biggest advantage is definitely the location. It's only one subway station away from Beijing Railway Station, and also just one stop from Tiananmen Square. It is truly so convenient. Breakfast: There are a few issues. First, the steamed buns are not placed according to the food labels, which causes quite a bit of trouble for vegetarians and guests with halal dietary requirements. Second, the ice cream container was empty. Third, spicy foods are not clearly labeled with warnings. Fourth, there are no small spoons provided in the yogurt section. Room facilities: The lighting is dim, and the setup on the second floor of the suite is too basic—there isn't even a small side table to put things on. There are fewer seats in the lobby waiting area compared to last time. Value for money: The first time was great value, but the second time I booked in a hurry, so...
From£58

Crystal Orange Hotel Beijing Tiananmen Wangfujing

9.4/10Outstanding11359 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.25km from city centre
I came to Beijing with my family and stayed at the Orange Crystal Hotel Tian'anmen Wangfujing. The location of the hotel is very good. It is convenient to go to Wangfujing and Tian'anmen Square. Hotel design is very strong, the room atmosphere is comfortable, take photos are also good-looking, several girlfriends are very satisfied. The room is clean and bright, the bedding is soft and comfortable, the toiletries are complete, live very at ease. Front desk service warm and patient, efficient check-in, travel advice is also very detailed, there is a demand for quick response. The room is soundproof, have a good rest at night, the hot water is stable, the network is smooth, the overall details are in place. A wide variety of breakfast, eat very satisfied, go out in the morning to play more spirit. It is convenient to eat and shop around, and it is safe to walk back in the evening. The overall stay experience is very good, live comfortable and worry, bestie has said the next time to Beijing will stay here, also recommended to ready to visit Beijing friends.
From£69

Beijing New World Centre Tongpai Hotel

9.1/10Good6383 Reviews
Qianmen (Front Gate) and Chongwenmen Commercial Area Beijing|1.02km from city centre
Traveling to Beijing during the Mid-Autumn Festival holiday, I booked two rooms two weeks in advance. The value for money was excellent. The hotel is right outside Exit H of Chongwenmen subway station, making transportation very convenient. With good weather, you can even walk to Tiananmen Square. There's a shopping mall right next door, which is very handy for dining and shopping. The hotel service was also good.
From£56

Peace Hotel Beijing(Forbidden city)

8.7/101800 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.47km from city centre
🌟 Heartfelt hospitality in the heart of Beijing! Special thanks to Mike Wong and Hanson Wang for an unforgettable stay!Our stay at Peace Hotel Beijing (Forbidden City) left us with the warmest and most unforgettable impressions. The hotel is incredibly well-located right in the center of Beijing, within walking distance of the main attractions, making our sightseeing trips exceptionally convenient and easy.A special highlight was the lounge on the 19th floor where the club dinners are held. Dining with a glass of wine while enjoying the breathtaking, majestic view of the Forbidden City and Jingshan Park is an unparalleled pleasure! The atmosphere there is truly magical.However, the most valuable and outstanding feature of this hotel is how they treat their guests. We experienced not just a high standard of service, but genuine love, warmth, and true, deep hospitality that is so rare to find these days.We arrived at the hotel very early — at 8:00 AM, exhausted from our journey, and were mentally prepared to wait hours for check-in. To our amazement, we were not only greeted with a smile, but were given a room immediately, saving us from tedious waiting!I would like to express my deepest and most sincere gratitude to Mike Wong and Hanson Wang. They took incredible care of our family. Mike personally showed us two excellent rooms to choose from, helping us patiently and politely. The room we fell in love with on the 17th floor was instantly handed over to us.It is because of such dedicated, caring, and professional employees like Mike Wong and Hanson Wang that the brand builds its flawless positive image, making guests want to return over and over again. I highly recommend that the hotel management recognizes both Mike's and Hanson's outstanding dedication and awards them a well-deserved bonus or promotion. They are a true asset to your team!Thank you so much for an impeccable welcome. We will definitely be back and recommend this amazing hotel with all our hearts!
From£69

Livefortuna Hotel

9.6/10Excellent5960 Reviews
East Second Ring Workers' Stadium Area Beijing|2.95km from city centre
Even during the October holiday, my trip was so pleasant! A big thank you to Manager Luo, who provided professional and enthusiastic service throughout my stay, from check-in to check-out. Manager Luo was incredibly responsible and even helped me with a late check-out, which was very thoughtful! Fortune Hotel has always been my favorite hotel!
From£55

Show more

Family friendly

Manxin Hotel Beijing Tiananmen Wangfujing

9.4/10Outstanding6922 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.28km from city centre
We had a very comfortable stay at Manxin Hotel Beijing Tiananmen Wangfujing (北京天安门王府井漫心酒店). The location is probably its biggest selling point — Wangfujing is just a short walk away, with all the major malls, restaurants and shops nearby. Peking Chamber is also just beside the hotel, which is very convenient. Our room was modern, clean and comfortable. It wasn’t particularly large, but the space was well designed and had everything we needed, including a smart toilet, separate shower, mini fridge and complimentary drinks. Breakfast was included in our stay, and the hotel also has a gym and complimentary self-service laundry facilities. There are two washing machines and two dryers, so they are shared on a first-come, first-served basis and can get busy. Overall, a really convenient hotel for exploring Beijing. We especially loved being able to walk to Wangfujing and the surrounding malls, then easily return to the hotel to rest before heading out again. Would happily stay here again!
From£21

Hampton by Hilton Beijing Fangshan

9.3/10Very Good1181 Reviews
Fangshan Scenic Area Beijing|37.06km from city centre
This stay was perfect! The room is warm and elegant, the bedding is soft and skin-friendly, the bathroom is separated into wet and dry areas, and the smart toilet and brand toiletries are all available. The quality is reflected in every detail. The staff was enthusiastic and patient from check-in to check-out. They took the initiative to help with luggage, recommend nearby food, and thoughtfully prepared welcome fruits and goodnight desserts. The breakfast is rich in variety, with a reasonable combination of Chinese and Western styles, and the freshly cooked noodles are a must. The surrounding transportation is convenient, and it is quiet in the bustling city. It is very suitable for both business travel and leisure travel. Highly recommended!
From£50

VOYAGE INTERNATIONAL HOTEL (Capital Airport New National Exhibition Store)

9.8/10Perfect25731 Reviews
Capital Airport and New International Exhibition Center Beijing|23.23km from city centre
As a transit hotel, Beijing Yuanhang International Hotel (Capital Airport New China International Exhibition Center branch) far exceeded our expectations in every way, and we had a fantastic stay. We were transiting from Yining through Beijing Capital International Airport and heading back to Taipei, China. We arrived at 2:30 AM and called the hotel; shortly after, the free shuttle arrived at Exit 5 of Terminal 3. The driver was steady behind the wheel and very polite. The check-in experience was wonderful. Noticing that we had mobility issues, the front desk staff proactively upgraded our room and arranged one close to the elevator. The actual room looked just like the photos on Trip.com—no filters or exaggeration. Although the room was near the elevator, we barely heard any noise from other guests or the elevator itself. It was very quiet, and we slept soundly. Several other thoughtful details left a deep impression on us: during check-in, the front desk proactively helped us schedule our airport drop-off time. If not for her reminder, we almost would have forgotten. Afterwards, a staff member proactively helped carry our carry-on luggage and escorted us to the room. Honestly, you rarely encounter such attentive service even at hotels three times the price. Forty minutes before our departure, the hotel even called to remind us, just in case we overslept—another major plus. At check-out, we received a small gift of steam eye masks. The shuttle ride back to the airport was smooth from start to finish, and the staff helped load our luggage. As we were leaving, two staff members stood like airport ground crew, waving goodbye as our shuttle drove away. For an expensive city like Beijing, getting this level of top-notch service at such a price point is incredible value for money. If we transit through Capital Airport again next time, we won't hesitate to choose Beijing Yuanhang International Hotel (Capital Airport New China International Exhibition Center branch) once more.
From£32

Park Inn by Radisson Beijing Tongzhou Universal Resort

9.4/10Outstanding12343 Reviews
Universal Beijing Resort and Sorrounding Beijing|22.5km from city centre
This is my second time staying here. I chose the Reber Hotel again for my trip to Beihuan this year. The location is incredibly convenient; after a long day of walking, being able to get back to the hotel for a rest in just a few minutes by taxi is pure bliss. The stay itself was fantastic – the room facilities were great, and the front desk and restaurant staff were all friendly and kind. The hotel also offers a free shuttle to the amusement park, which is a thoughtful touch. Another satisfying and happy trip!
From£38

Kerry Hotel, Beijing by Shangri-La

9.2/10Very Good2552 Reviews
Guomao Area Beijing|4.46km from city centre
The gym service was terrible. The last picture shows the very bad gym staff member who was playing on his phone in the changing room, a place where people are naked and where there are signs prohibiting phone use. When I tried to get his attention, he ignored me. This person also ignored guests at the front desk when checking in and out, not even greeting them. When I returned my wristband, he just kept his head down doing his own thing. It was a lady next to him who, seeing his lack of response, rather awkwardly took the wristband from me. Regular training should resolve this issue. Otherwise, it's a hotel with great value for money. The front desk staff was fantastic, patiently explaining various issues and even upgraded my room. I think the lady's name was Zhang Dandan? I've forgotten. The executive lounge offered a wide variety of food, and the quality was excellent.
From£112

Show more

Show more

🏛️ Top 5 Activities and Landmarks in Beijing

Once you've explored Beijing's iconic neighbourhoods, why not delve deeper and uncover all the city's top attractions and historical gems? Here's our hand-picked selection of the very best activities, perfect whether you're travelling with family, friends, or enjoying a romantic escape:

The Forbidden City: China's Imperial Palace

Palace Museum

Palace Museum

The Forbidden City (also known as the Palace Museum) is truly Beijing's unmissable jewel and the most visited site in the capital. This majestic imperial complex, where 24 emperors reigned for over 500 years, will transport you into the captivating history of the Ming and Qing dynasties. As you wander through its 980 buildings, spread across 72 hectares, you'll discover sumptuous courtyards and richly decorated palaces.

We highly recommend booking your tickets in advance, as they can sell out incredibly quickly! Kick off your adventure bright and early to dodge the crowds and bask in that glorious, ideal light. The full exploration usually takes a good 3 to 4 hours, so make sure you're rocking your comfiest shoes – your feet will definitely thank you!

Top tip: Head to Jingshan Park straight after! From its summit, you'll be treated to a breathtaking panoramic view of the Forbidden City with its golden roofs. It's truly magical at sunset.

Forbidden City Tickets Now!

The Great Wall: A World Wonder

The Great Wall

The Great Wall

How can you possibly introduce Beijing without visiting one of the world's seven wonders: the Great Wall of China? This millennia-old marvel majestically snakes its way through the mountains, offering truly breathtaking panoramas.

While several sections are easily reached from Beijing, we wholeheartedly recommend Mutianyu – it's truly the top pick for international visitors.

Your essential guide to the Great Wall:

  • 📏 Its total length: a staggering 21,000 km! (That's all sections combined, with a magnificent 6,700 km belonging to the iconic Ming Wall.)
  • 📅 Construction: Its incredible journey began in the 7th century BC, with building efforts continuing all the way through to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644)!
  • ⏳ The construction period: over 2,000 years in the making!
  • 👷 The incredible workforce: millions of workers, soldiers, and prisoners
  • 📐 Its dimensions: 5 to 7 metres tall, 4 to 5 metres wide
  • 🏆 UNESCO World Heritage Site: Inscribed in 1987

Mutianyu Section – our top recommendation:

  • 📍 Distance from Beijing: A mere 70 km to the northeast (that's about a 1.5-hour drive!).
  • ⛰️ Average altitude: 800 metres
  • ✨ The perks: less crowded than Badaling, beautifully restored, and boasts stunning scenery!
  • 🕐 Time on site: Allow 5 glorious hours to truly soak up every moment!
  • 🚠 Access: Cable car up + optional toboggan down for a bit of fun!
Mutianyu Great Wall Adventure

The Temple of Heaven: A Spiritual Sanctuary

Temple of Heaven

Temple of Heaven

How about a refreshing dose of spiritual serenity? For that, set your sights on the Temple of Heaven, Beijing's most iconic landmark after the Forbidden City.

Between its unique architecture with a dazzling blue roof, its peaceful gardens, and the sight of locals practising tai-chi at sunrise, it's an unmissable spot for enthusiasts of imperial history and authentic local culture.

Temple of Heaven Tickets Now!

The Summer Palace: Stunning Lake Views

Summer Palace

Summer Palace

Nestled in Beijing's north-western suburbs, this sprawling imperial complex is one of the finest spots to admire the imperial gardens from above. From its lush, verdant hills and perched pavilions (easily reached via a picturesque staircase if you fancy a climb), you'll be treated to spectacular views of Kunming Lake and the entire park, especially as the sun dips below the horizon. A perfect escape from the city's hustle and bustle!

Reach the Summer Palace Summit

Tiananmen Square: The iconic symbol of power

Tiananmen Square

Tiananmen Square

Fancy discovering the political and historical heart of modern China? Then set your sights on Tian'anmen Square, one of the world's largest public spaces! This colossal square spans an incredible 440,000 m² and can comfortably host a million people.

Between the Mao Zedong Mausoleum, the Monument to the People's Heroes, and the Gate of Heavenly Peace, which grants access to the Forbidden City, it's a place steeped in history and absolutely free to explore, day or night!

🍜 What to Eat in Beijing: A Foodie's Guide

Peking Roast Duck

Jing Jiang Rousi

What's a trip to Beijing without diving into its incredible local specialities? Because, oh yes, Beijing is a city you explore with your taste buds! This magnificent capital is famed for its exquisite, refined cuisine, a delicious legacy from the imperial court. Trip.com has hand-picked the must-try traditional dishes that will truly tantalise your palate:

  • Peking Duck: it's THE city's speciality, with its incredibly crispy skin and melt-in-your-mouth tender meat.
  • Jiaozi: Chinese dumplings, wonderfully steamed, boiled, or fried.
  • Jing Jiang Rousi: a delightful stir-fried shredded pork, lovingly coated in a sweet bean sauce.
  • Zhajiang Mian: Dive into a bowl of wonderfully thick noodles, generously topped with a rich, fermented soybean paste.
  • Grilled Skewers (Chuan): Marinated meats, grilled to perfection over a sizzling barbecue.
  • Bingtang Hulu: Candied hawthorn fruits, a beloved sweet treat!

Beijing Bites & Vibrant Markets

To truly dive into more local specialities and experience life like a local, you simply can't miss Beijing's incredible street food scene! The hutongs are absolutely buzzing with bustling street vendors and charming family-run stalls.

P.S.: You'll find the local flavours here are wonderfully mild, and less spicy than those in Southern China.

Among the absolute must-visits is the famous Wangfujing Snack Street: prepare yourself for grilled insect skewers, succulent lamb kebabs, sweet pancakes, and candied fruits. It's a truly spectacular sight, especially in the evening when the neon lights flicker to life!

Why not treat your taste buds to a guided food tour through the hutongs, where you'll uncover the most delightful hidden gems? These incredible journeys will lead you to charming local restaurants and traditional homes.

🥇Our golden rule: if it looks good and smells good, give it a try!

🌤️ Best Time to Visit Beijing

Beijing is a city that welcomes visitors all year round, but, like many great cities, each season unveils a wonderfully unique experience. Its continental climate brings with it glorious hot summers and crisp, cold winters.

Dive into this complete guide to discover the ideal time for your trip, all based on what you love!

Blooming Season 🌸

Weather ⛅️

Heads up! 🗒

Top Activities & Festivals 🎟

Spring (March-May)

Mild (10-25°C)

Perfect for outdoor adventures!

Cherry Blossom

Summer (June-August)

Hot (25-35°C)

Long days are on the cards, but expect some scorching heat!

Dragon Boat Festival

Autumn (Sep-Nov)

Pleasantly cool (15-25°C)

The best season for glorious clear skies

National Day, Moon Festival

Winter (Dec-Feb)

Cold (-5 to 5°C)

Fewer crowds, fantastic prices

New Year, Lantern Festival

💡 Our recommendation: April, May, September, and October are the best times to visit. Autumn is particularly ideal, boasting exceptional weather and spectacular colours along the Great Wall!

🚄 Day Trips from Beijing

Spending a few days in Beijing and fancy exploring beyond the city's vibrant heart? Well, you're in luck! The capital is perfectly positioned for some truly incredible adventures in its surrounding areas!

Setting off from Beijing? Trip.com has two fantastic excursions we simply can't recommend enough:

Ming Tombs (Shisan Ling)

  • Journey time: 1 to 1.5 hours (just 50 km north)
  • Transport: Sightseeing Buses or Combined Tours
  • Unmissable highlights: the tombs of 13 Ming emperors, the majestic Spirit Way, and their fascinating funerary architecture.

Chengde with its Imperial Palace

  • Journey time:
    • By high-speed train via Chengde South: just 2 hours!
    • By regular train: expect your journey to last around 4 to 4.5 hours.
    • By car: just 2 hours 20 minutes
  • Transport: by high-speed train or delightful day trips
  • Must-sees: the Qing Imperial Summer Resort, Buddhist and Tibetan temples
Book your excursions from Beijing

Beijing is calling, ready to enchant you with its 3,000 years of history, fascinating culture, and unforgettable experiences! Whether you're drawn to the Forbidden City, the authentic hutongs, the Great Wall, or the delicious Peking duck, this vibrant Chinese capital is sure to win you over.

Start planning your amazing trip on Trip.com now to unlock the best offers!

Happy travels to Beijing! ✨

❓ FAQ – Things to Do in Beijing

🧩 Explore More Travel Guides

Best Restaurants and Places to Eat in Beijing
This guide covers the best restaurants, lesser-known local delicacies and must-try dishes for travellers seeking an authentic taste of the capital.
November 5, 2026
How to Get from Beijing Airport to city center
Find the best ways from Beijing airport to city centre. Compare taxi, train, bus & car rental options. Book trip.com airport transfers with free 24-hour cancellation!
November 5, 2026
Beijing Metro: Map, Lines, Fares, Usage & Ride Guide
Beijing metro map, operating hours, lines, ticket fares, payment methods, riding & hotel tips for easy travel in China's capital. Perfect for first-time visitors!
November 5, 2026
Where to Stay in Beijing: Best Areas, Hotels & Attractions
Where to stay in Beijing? Explore top areas, hotels and attractions, including the Forbidden City, Qianmen, Wangfujing and historic hutongs like Nanluoguxiang.
November 5, 2026
Disclaimer: This article has been provided by an individual contributor or third party platform. If there is any discrepancy regarding the copyright, please contact us directly and we will delete the content immediately.
Trip.com
>
Tours & tickets
>
things to do in beijing