285 booked
Hotels: Save up to 10% (Book online or on Mobile)
Homes & Apts: Save up to £39 (App-only deal)
Top Things to do in Beijing: Best Activities & Must-Sees
By Tina
January 16, 2026
Whether you're a history enthusiast captivated by imperial tales, a keen foodie eager to explore local delicacies, or on the hunt for authentic charm in the hutongs, Beijing is simply bursting with wonders to amaze you!
To help you make the most of your trip, Trip.com is thrilled to unveil Beijing's top activities and unmissable sights! We're talking about the magnificent Palace Museum (the Forbidden City) and the awe-inspiring Great Wall, charming authentic neighbourhoods just waiting to be explored, the most captivating cultural experiences, and, of course, mouth-watering culinary specialities to savour.
💡 Did you know? The name "Peking" comes from a 17th-century French transcription, while 'Beijing' is the modern official pronunciation, meaning 'Northern Capital'.
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 |
Discover captivating attractions in Beijing
See all attractions
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!
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
Good6870 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.55km from city centre
The hotel felt very safe which was nice as a solo female traveler, although my experience in China as a whole has felt safe. I like that you can only access your floor if you have a room key for the given floor. Also, the large open concept makes all doors to rooms visible from any given point which also makes it feel safe. Doormen to open all doors in the lobby area which is really nice and they bring your luggage to the room. The hotel slippers are the BEST I’ve ever used, not like regular hotel slippers. Ai soft and comfortable. One thing I didn’t like was the large deposit (around $300USD) they needed for the room upon arrival, but it was fine. I’m just not used to that in China. The only downside is that some things need updating…you can tell the hotel is pretty old and with time, a hotel room can only feel so clean. Overall it was as clean as possible given it looks like it’s been a while since they have renovated. Still super clean I’m just picky! I would definitely stay here again. If you want a true “Chinese feel” while staying in Beijing this won’t be the place, but as someone living in China wanting a different feel, it was great. It felt as though I was in Europe somewhere. The concierge spoke English and were always helpful and attentive. The power outlets are older but they provided adapters. The bedside adapter was great, but the other ones in the common area and bathroom i would not use again. I plugged in my smart ring charger in the bathroom and it shorted and shocked me when touching the opposite end of the charger away from the outlet. My hand felt tingly for a few minutes but went away and I was fine. Overall my experience was very positive. I think if they did some minor renovations to modernize a bit, this hotel would be perfect.From€105
Very Good12574 Reviews
Guomao Area Beijing|2.52km from city centre
The hotel environment is fantastic, with a simple yet elegant decor. The rooms are spacious and bright, and the facilities are complete and very new. The service is attentive and thoughtful, cleaning is thorough, the hot water supply is stable, and the Wi-Fi is fast. Overall, I had a very satisfying experience and highly recommend it. After checking out, Leah asked about my stay, which was a nice touch. Highly recommended!From€103
5904 Reviews
Guomao Area Beijing|4.64km from city centre
After looking at three or four hotels, I decided to stay at the Grand Millennium Beijing for my trip to Beijing, mainly because of its proximity to the subway, making it convenient for getting around. The hotel itself is quite grand, and while the service is very traditional, it gets the job done. I contacted the hotel in advance and asked the front desk to book a room on the highest floor within the same price range, with a view of the CCTV Tower. They managed to arrange all of this, which I was very pleased with. However, the hotel is a bit old-fashioned; if you order takeout, there's no robot or staff to deliver it, so you have to go down and pick it up yourself.
The room itself is quite spacious and also has a traditional feel. One quirky thing is the power outlets: one nightstand has an outlet, but the other doesn't. This made it impossible to charge my phone while lying in bed, so I had to go to the supermarket the next day to buy an extension cord. Also, the power outlets are quite old-fashioned, not the new national standard, and many of them are loose.
The bathroom has two showerheads, a main one and a side one. I assume the side one is for people sitting down, but one thing they might not have considered is where to put clean clothes for changing. If you put them inside, they'll get wet during the shower. If you put them outside, isn't it a bit awkward to walk out naked?
The breakfast buffet at the hotel is quite good, with a wide variety of dishes. The mini hash browns, in particular, taste exactly like the ones sold at McDonald's and KFC.
Finally, I want to especially thank the bespectacled housekeeper on the 24th floor. Her service was excellent, she was very polite, and the room was cleaned impeccably. She left a particularly good and warm impression.
I didn't take many photos of the hotel, so consider these for reference. Also, the Hema Supermarket is about 600-700 meters west of the hotel, which is convenient for buying things.From€86
Outstanding5148 Reviews
Guomao Area Beijing|4.7km from city centre
From the service to the facilities, and from the overall experience to the smallest details, this hotel was absolutely delightful! I'm so glad we chose it for our 20th wedding anniversary. We even received a complimentary cake and wine from the hotel, which was such a pleasant surprise and made us incredibly happy. The view from our room was stunning, with the CCTV Tower visible through the large floor-to-ceiling windows. The hotel's location is also superb, right above the China World Shopping Mall, making it incredibly convenient for shopping and dining. I've already recommended it to all my friends and colleagues, and I'll definitely choose to stay here again on my next visit to Beijing!From€124
Outstanding6398 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|0.31km from city centre
Capital Hotel truly exceeded my expectations! I initially thought the facilities might be old and didn't have high hopes, but it ended up being the most comfortable stay of my entire spring break. The room was exceptionally clean and tidy, and most importantly, the air conditioning was amazing. Other places hadn't even turned on their cooling yet, but here it was strong and cooled down quickly, making for ultimate comfort. This old-brand hotel definitely maintains its quality. Highly recommend! The courtyard was also very beautiful, though I forgot to take photos. The hotel is close to Tiananmen Square security checkpoint #4, within walking distance.From€82
Business travel
Good10271 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|0.86km from city centre
On the night of our check-in, my child wouldn't stop crying, so I called the front desk for help. Ms. Zeng answered my call and, hearing the anxiety and panic in my voice, immediately offered to bring a thermometer and some ice to our room. After hanging up, she personally delivered them, helped guide my child to take their temperature, and noticed the child wasn't feeling well. Ms. Zeng softly asked about the child's condition and offered to boil some warm water for us.
She explained how to use the in-room kettle and reminded me to contact the front desk anytime if the child felt unwell. Her tone was gentle throughout, and her actions were swift and efficient.
The next day, I called the front desk again as my child was still feeling a bit unwell and I didn't know where the nearest pharmacy was. Ms. Zeng patiently gave me directions to the closest pharmacy and, considering it would be difficult for me with a child, suggested I could **have the medicine delivered to the hotel, and she would personally bring it up to our room.**
Ms. Zeng was proactive and thoughtful: she immediately noticed my anxiety and panic and offered her assistance.
Detailed care, perfectly delivered: She paid attention to my young child's condition, providing a thermometer and ice, solving a real problem.
Efficient response, problem-solving: Faced with a guest's sudden need, she didn't shirk or delay but proactively brought delivered medicine to the room, truly easing our worries.
Approachable attitude, professional demeanor: She provided service with a smile throughout, used appropriate language, and was patient and meticulous, making me, a tired traveler, feel reassured and respected.From€59
Outstanding11168 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.25km from city centre
Our stay was ok but had several significant problems. The first was when I was told that my room would be windowless and in the basement. They said this was in the booking but it was definitely not clear when I booked through the English trip.com website, and the photo showed a room with a window. When I checked my booking online afterwards there was no mention of it being windowless.
When I said I had expected a window, the staff showed me a room with a window, but it was smaller, reeked of cigarettes, had a different bed configuration ill-suited for my family, and was more expensive. And I was told that regulations prohibited opening the window anyway. I have no idea why. So I resigned my family to the basement.
The room was nice and cute but the bathroom smelled like mildew, and, again, it was in a windowless basement. I don't know how it's allowed to have such rooms.
The hotel is 8 large floors and has only one elevator, so there was a lot of waiting.
The hallway in the basement had an unpleasant vinegar odor.
We tried to buy breakfast on our last morning. It turned out we couldn't just buy it with AliPay, we had to install a mini app, add all our information, verify things, and it was taking 15+ minutes. We just wanted to eat and catch our train. This senseless delay almost made us miss it.
The staff was nice and helpful but the hotel itself has a lot of problems. It is not cheap. The location is great but I would stay somewhere else next time.From€51
Good6724 Reviews
Qianmen (Front Gate) and Chongwenmen Commercial Area Beijing|1.02km from city centre
The front desk service was mediocre, though the female staff were a bit better. The male staff, on the other hand, seemed impatient and curt. The room was clean but felt cramped, especially the bathroom – perhaps due to its age. The toilet was uncomfortable and didn't flush properly. The hotel's public areas were overly perfumed, which gave me a headache. The restaurant was tiny and had a lot of foreigners, not small and exquisite, but just small. Its main advantage is the location. The coffee shop in Nakajima was decent.From€56
1724 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.47km from city centre
Second time visiting Beijing, and I still chose to stay at Heping. Wangfujing is convenient for getting everywhere, there are plenty of dining options, and you don't have to wait in long lines. The hotel stay experience was great, and for this price, staying in a high-end hotel district like Wangfujing, I really have no complaints. From my room, I could directly see the Forbidden City, Beihai Park, and Jingshan Park.From€77
Excellent5334 Reviews
East Second Ring Workers' Stadium Area Beijing|2.95km from city centre
This is a clean hotel with a helpful reception team. You'll find all the essentials a traveler could need. The location is convenient, just about 15 minutes from the metro. There are also 7-Eleven and Lawson stores nearby for snacks.
Great advantage: gym and swimming poool inside that will help you to start or end your travel day.
One minus for me personally, you can not open the window, it’s air conditioner inside the room with dry my skin.From€60
Family friendly
7103 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.28km from city centre
We chose the 'Little Yellow Duck' themed family room, and my daughter absolutely adored it when we entered – it was just too cute and had a wonderful atmosphere! The hotel's location is super convenient, really close to the subway station, and within walking distance to attractions like the Forbidden City and Wangfujing Pedestrian Street. The service was excellent, truly excellent. The downstairs 'Siji Minfu' Peking Duck restaurant is a famous Beijing eatery, usually with a wait time of over three hours. The hotel staff thoughtfully reminded us to get a ticket in advance. After spending the day sightseeing, I asked the staff to help me get a ticket, and they managed to get one three hours early – fantastic! On top of that, my knees were a bit sore from all the walking at the Forbidden City, so I asked the hotel for ice to compress them. They even went to a bubble tea shop to get a big bag of ice, huffing and puffing as they brought it up – truly above and beyond! Next time I'm in Beijing, I'll definitely choose the Manxin Hotel Tian'anmen Wangfujing again.From€49
Outstanding7294 Reviews
China International Exhibition Center Area Beijing|7.13km from city centre
A true home away from home.
It's the little details that truly make a difference, and the service here was wonderfully warm and welcoming.
The window view was picturesque, and the interior felt just like home – a perfect encounter. From the moment I stepped into the lobby, attentiveness and comfort were ever-present.
More than just a stay, it was a cherished period of relaxation. The bedding was soft, ensuring a peaceful night's sleep that washed away all fatigue.
The staff's smiles were the brightest beacons throughout my journey. The facilities were modern and spotless, with every corner reflecting thoughtful management.
The prime location made getting around incredibly convenient, adding a sense of ease to my trip. Breakfast was plentiful and delicious, kicking off a vibrant day with great taste.
The value for money was exceptional; such a worthwhile experience brings immense joy. The soundproofing was excellent, allowing me to enjoy tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle.
This stay far exceeded my expectations. See you next time!
Whether for business or leisure, this is an outstanding choice. Many thanks to the hotel for the meticulous arrangements that made our trip complete and unforgettable.From€63
Excellent14100 Reviews
China International Exhibition Center Area Beijing|7.52km from city centre
Overall, a good hotel when it comes to location, general cleanliness, and soundproofing, but not really friendly towards foreigners.
The staff at the front desk really need to improve their service and attitude, they were quite unapproachable and unfriendly. They also didn’t provide clear instructions during check-in. Nothing on how to access amenities for example.
Also, when I tried getting the late-night snack, they were just ignoring me on their phones. It’s only when another local guest indicated they should serve me first that they finally took notice. I felt uncomfortable approaching them with questions after my first encounter with them.
The only time they suddenly cared was during check-out when they tried to pressure me into leaving a 5 star review on the spot while they watched. It would be better if they just gently remind people to leave a review if they wish to.
For breakfast, there were lots of options but they should really label things and clearly indicate dietary restrictions like meat or allergens. It seems like this is not a thing in China but if you are catering towards foreigners, not everyone can just eat anything.
Lastly, for anyone who is really sensitive to smoke, I asked for a smoke-free room but could still smell it, especially in the shower. Not sure if the smell is coming through from other rooms, but either way you will catch a whiff.From€48
Outstanding12306 Reviews
Universal Beijing Resort and Sorrounding Beijing|22.5km from city centre
A very good hotel with a convenient location, especially if you are planning to visit Universal Studios. The hotel offers a free shuttle to the park, which is very convenient. The area is quiet and peaceful, making it perfect for a short stay of a couple of days. The rooms are comfortable and well-equipped with all the necessary amenities. The bed linen was clean and perfectly white. The breakfast is decent, and overall the price-to-quality ratio is excellent. Highly recommended!
The only downside was that our room didn’t have a real window, it looked more like an imitation.From€38
Very Good2531 Reviews
Guomao Area Beijing|4.46km from city centre
I wonder if the staff handling Ctrip bookings understand the hotel's motto: 'A love letter to the city.' Every interaction with a customer reflects how welcomed hotel guests truly feel. Even with a great stay, if a guest notes an early arrival, copying and pasting a response about full-day charges from X to X o'clock and half-day charges from X to X o'clock is simply wrong and inappropriate. (In this situation, I just canceled. 😑 It's not like Beijing doesn't have other resort hotels.) It's disheartening and unprofessional. Aside from a staff member whose English name was 'Huang something,' the entire communication process lacked any international standard. It was cold, indifferent, and they couldn't be bothered to do a little extra. I suspect the people processing Ctrip orders hate their jobs. What I remember most vividly is a previous booking where, due to a minor note, Ctrip called me twice to relay the hotel's requests. I angrily complained, and that's why there wasn't a third call. Your reservation handling truly leaves a lot to be desired. To say it's unwelcome isn't quite right; it's more like a letdown. It feels like they treat guests like employees, responding like they're reciting from an employee manual. The service at the executive lounge, however, was as thoughtful and consistent as ever. The male staff members are familiar faces and speak excellent English; the female staff rotate frequently. The bathtubs on the executive floor need renovation. And please don't give me a room ending in '3' next time. The iced latte at breakfast was very good. I will continue to frequent the executive lounge and monitor the reservation department's attitude. I'll complain if necessary, after all, going to a hotel on the weekend should be enjoyable. Housekeeping efficiency is extremely high.From€118
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, the world's most magnificent imperial palace (also known as the Palace Museum)
- 🐉 The Great Wall of China, one of the Seven Wonders of the World
- 🏮 The Temple of Heaven, a UNESCO-listed architectural masterpiece
- 🌸 The Summer Palace, imperial gardens and picturesque lake
- 📍 Tiananmen Square, the iconic symbol of modern Chinese power
The Forbidden City: China's Imperial Palace
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.
The Great Wall: A World Wonder
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!
The Temple of Heaven: A Spiritual Sanctuary
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.
The Summer Palace: Stunning Lake Views
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!
Tiananmen Square: The iconic symbol of power
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 🍜
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
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
Things to see and do in Beijing if I have 1 day?
If you only have one day, focus on the essentials: start with the Forbidden City in the morning (book in advance!), then cross Tiananmen Square. After lunch, explore the Hutongs by tuk-tuk for an authentic experience. Finish at Jingshan Park to admire the sunset over the Forbidden City!Things to see and do in Beijing if I have 2-3 days?
With two or three days, add the Temple of Heaven (go early in the morning), the Summer Palace with its lake, and dedicate a day to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. Over three days, also explore Sanlitun for shopping, the 798 Art District for contemporary art, and enjoy Peking Duck in a traditional restaurant!Things to see and do in Beijing if I have 4 days?
With four days in Beijing, you can combine the best activities with a day trip to either the Ming Tombs or Jinshanling. Enjoy the Lama Temple, take part in a Chinese cooking class, or relax at a spa. You'll also have enough time to explore Wangfujing and do some shopping!What to do in Beijing when it rains?
Don't let the rain spoil your day in Beijing - there are plenty of indoor options! You can explore excellent museums like the National Museum of China or the Palace Museum, browse the shopping malls around Wangfujing, or relax in a traditional Chinese spa. For a cultural experience, why not join a calligraphy workshop or settle in for a leisurely Peking Duck lunch?What to do in Beijing in the evenings?
Beijing offers plenty to do after dark! Stroll through the illuminated Wangfujing district and sample local street food, or explore Sanlitun's vibrant bar scene. For culture, catch a Peking Opera or acrobatics show. Alternatively, book a night cruise or a guided tour of the lantern-lit Hutongs through Trip.com.
Explore More Travel Guides
Beijing Guides
North China
Central China
South China
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.
April 24, 2025
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!
January 22, 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!
February 7, 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.
January 22, 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.
<h3>Trending Searches</h3>
Travel guides
About
Payment methods
Our partners
Copyright © 2026 Trip.com Travel Singapore Pte. Ltd. All rights reserved
Site Operator: Trip.com Travel Singapore Pte. Ltd.
Site Operator: Trip.com Travel Singapore Pte. Ltd.