Customer support

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

Author's Profile Picture
Things to do in Beijing

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!

Length of your adventure

Couples' Adventures

Family adventures

Adventures with 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
139 booked
4.9/523 reviews
Beijing Highlights: Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City: In-Depth Tour (Multilingual Guide)
Day tours
€45
184 booked
4.8/56 reviews
Beijing Multilingual Guide Service [Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Great Wall - English, Cantonese, Russian, Japanese, French, German] Guided Tour
Day tours
€0
525 booked
3.4/57 reviews
Tiananmen Square Entry Reservation Ticket
Day tours
€3.48
9 booked
5/55 reviews
Beijing Temple of Heaven Half-Day Tour [Combined Ticket Available in Chinese, English, and Multilingual Packages]
Day tours
€122.03
11530 booked
4.9/55045 reviews
Full-Day Mutianyu Great Wall Bus Tour with 5 Hours at the Site (ENG/ESP/RUS Guided Bus)
Day tours
€14.68

Beijing's Must-Visit Districts & Hutongs 🏮

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 Sanlitun Village 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!

🎁 Save up to 8% on hotels or up to £22 on Homes & Apts!

Best hotels in Beijing

5 star

Legendale Hotel Beijing

9.1/10Good6656 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.55km from city centre
Staying at the Legendale Hotel Beijing felt less like a simple hotel stay and more like living inside a documentary about hospitality. It reminded me of the way Claridge’s in London is portrayed—not just about luxury, but about the people who truly care for their guests and turn small moments into lasting memories. When I first arrived in China, I had no idea how to send a parcel—especially without a local phone number and ID. The floor manager, Jenny, kindly told me: “Just go to the concierge, they will help with everything.” And she was absolutely right. The concierge manager not only arranged the shipment, but personally supervised the courier while they packed my bottles of wine. What struck me most was how he cared even more than I did—checking every detail as if it were his own. In Australia, I could never imagine staff being so genuinely invested in a guest’s problem. I also want to thank Jenny. Beyond her helpfulness, she was a joy to talk to—warm, funny, and sincere. Those conversations made me feel at home in a new country. It reminded me again of what I saw in Claridge’s: the true magic of a great hotel comes not from its marble halls, but from the kindness of its people. And I cannot forget my floor cleaning attendant, Zhou Xiaodan. She was meticulous, always folding my clothes neatly even when I left them scattered. Every time I saw her, she greeted me with a genuine smile—not the polite, professional kind, but one that came straight from the heart. That smile gave me warmth that no other hotel has ever provided. The Legendale gave me much more than a comfortable room and a prime location. It gave me a profound sense of human care. That is what makes this hotel unforgettable, and why I would sincerely recommend it to anyone visiting Beijing.
From€106

Sofitel Beijing Central

9.3/10Very Good11650 Reviews
Guomao Area Beijing|2.52km from city centre
An excellent hotel that delivers the needs of a traveler. The hotel encompasses all the hotel qualities needed for a trip. With just a 5 minutes walk to Jianguomen Station, it brings you to many attractions in the heart of the city - such as GuGong, Tiananmen Square & Temple of Heaven, in less than 30 minutes. There is also a variety of food choices near the hotel, like the famous 紫光园 to get your local Peking duck cravings settled. While food delivery option near the hotel is also filled with amazing variety of foods and drinks. The room was cleaned daily and the cleaner (Lvl 8, named Su) saw that we drank tons of water and topped up a carton every day 😅. It was also spacious with lots of space to move and place your belongings. The highlight of the hotel was the use of technology in the rooms and infrastructure. The in-room lighting can be adjusted to different colours with a sleek panel. On top of that, the pinnacle of the hotel was the FOOD DELIVERY ROBOT. You could get your delivery driver to write your room number and the front desk would get the robot to deliver it to your room 😮. Although, during peak hours it will take 20–30 minutes to get your food delivered to your room, it was worth the experience. All these qualities are the reason why I wouldn’t mind coming back to stay here if I am back in Beijing!
From€92

Grand Millennium Beijing

8.8/105613 Reviews
Guomao Area Beijing|4.64km from city centre
It’s in the middle of the bank area, good for work meetings. The bar in the hotel is basic, but u are surrounded by other amazing hotel bars (eg. Kerry hotel, Hotel Jen, rosewood etc) Wonderful gym, pool and access to malls and metro!
From€99

Jen Beijing by Shangri-La

9.4/10Outstanding4808 Reviews
Guomao Area Beijing|4.7km from city centre
I had a very satisfying trip. The hotel's environment and facilities were excellent. The front desk staff, in particular, provided outstanding service. I had called ahead to request a room with a view of the CCTV Tower, and the young lady at the front desk quickly located a suitable room and efficiently processed my reservation. Her professionalism and attentive demeanor were truly commendable. The trendy gym was fantastic, and the swimming pool was clean and well-maintained. I had originally booked my stay hoping to get a close-up view of the military parade. Unfortunately, despite being in such a prime location, I ironically couldn't get a clear view of the event. I only managed to catch silhouettes of the aircraft, which was a slight disappointment.
From€128

Capital Hotel（the Forbidden City，Tiananmen）

9.3/10Very Good6234 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|0.31km from city centre
The hotel was very nice. The facilities were a bit outdated but it was still very quaint and very close to all the interesting places to see. While there was a bit of humidity in the room, it was still comfortable. The service was excellent. All the staff were incredibly helpful and friendly. The aunties were also very kind and friendly. We will come again next time we’re in Beijing.
From€85

Show more

Business travel

Beijing Xinqiao Hotel

9/10Good9509 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|0.86km from city centre
The hotel boasts an incredibly convenient location, with the subway station directly outside its entrance. The hotel environment is pleasant, and the housekeeping staff provided very attentive service. However, since it was during the summer holiday period, the hotel was extremely busy. The check-in process felt a bit lacking, and we experienced a rather long wait time. Given that guests are usually tired after their journeys, I hope they consider increasing staffing during busy periods. Furthermore, the breakfast selection was quite limited. Over our six-day stay, the same options were served daily without any changes, which became very repetitive.
From€61

Crystal Hotel Beijing Tiananmen Wangfujing

9.4/10Outstanding10305 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.25km from city centre
The hotel boasts an absolutely fantastic location with incredibly convenient public transportation. Both bus and subway stations are just a few minutes' walk away, providing effortless access to all major attractions. What's more, a large shopping mall and a bustling food street are right nearby, making it a one-stop destination for all your dining, shopping, and entertainment needs. It's perfect for an evening stroll and sampling local eats – truly delightful!
From€63

Beijing New World Centre Tongpai Hotel

9/10Good6533 Reviews
Qianmen (Front Gate) and Chongwenmen Commercial Area Beijing|1.02km from city centre
The front of his staff is very helpful, excellent and knowledgeable. We have to give extra kudos to the I believe front office manager call Helen Ma. She embodies customer service !! We had issues with taxis she solved it. we had issues with check out dates. She solved it with Trip.com and she does it in a very patient manner despite having other customers coming to her for help.   I would highly recommend her to any hotel related industry. They will be fortunate to have her in their front offices services n eventually higher up in mgr
From€62

Novotel Beijing Peace

8.6/101729 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.47km from city centre
Hotel is old but still good cleanliness. West Wing rooms are more new as they renovated them in recent years. Enjoyable stay, but maybe can upgrade to keep up more technologically such as robot delivery service as food deliveries are still only able to collect at the shelf by the main door.
From€89

Livefortuna Hotel

9.6/10Excellent4890 Reviews
East Second Ring Workers' Stadium Area Beijing|2.95km from city centre
I had an unexpected experience in Beijing — I was scammed by a taxi driver, and for a moment, my image of the city almost turned negative. Out of desperation, I even contacted my embassy, but they said they couldn’t help. I was completely lost. Then, as my last hope, I asked the hotel for help — and they went above and beyond. The staff didn’t hesitate for a second; they stepped in and helped me resolve everything. I was genuinely touched. Especially Ms. Su, the manager — she was incredibly kind and professional. I will never forget her help that night. This hotel is not just well-managed, but also perfect for travelers. It even has a washing machine, which is great for long-term stays, and the loft-style room adds a lovely, romantic touch. For short-term travelers, it’s also excellent — very comfortable, clean, and convenient. There are supermarkets and convenience stores nearby, and although the subway is a bit far, taxis are easy to get, and walking around is absolutely fine. If I ever come back to Beijing, I will definitely stay here again. Highly recommended — not just for the comfort, but for the people who truly care.
From€59

Show more

Family friendly

Kempinski Hotel Beijing Yansha Center

9.3/10Very Good5666 Reviews
Yansha Commercial Area Beijing|7.02km from city centre
During summer vacation, with our child out of school, time at home seemed to stretch endlessly. Our entire day revolves around our little one, and as full-time parents, we rarely get a moment to ourselves. This time, we chose the Kempinski Hotel Beijing Lufthansa Center without any specific 'itinerary' in mind; we simply wanted to stay a night, enjoy a meal, and unwind. 🛏 Room Experience We contacted the hotel a day in advance, and the front desk staff were incredibly thoughtful, arranging a quiet floor for us. Upon entering the room, we were greeted by a familiar fresh scent. The biggest pleasant surprise was that we had requested a child bed rail beforehand, and it was already installed when we arrived – no waiting, which was both convenient and reassuring. Our child's favorite part was the large bathtub; his first words were, 'I want to take a bath!' The bedding was soft and comfortable, and all three of us slept soundly until we naturally woke up. Additionally, the package included parking, which was very convenient for us driving there. 🥂 Dining Experience (Dinner + Lunch) We booked a package that included the Xindian Buffet Dinner. As returning guests, Xindian continued to be 'the familiar joy': The seafood section was fresh, with sweet shrimp, crisp clams, and thick, firm salmon slices. The teppanyaki section was wonderfully fragrant, offering piping hot steak, squid, and lamb chops. The beverage area even had free-flow sparkling and red wine, which for us, as full-time parents, was a rare and welcome indulgence. The staff were consistently smiling, clearing plates and refilling drinks very promptly, making for an excellent experience. The next day, we added the Long Yuan Dim Sum Buffet for lunch, and it didn't disappoint. The shrimp dumplings were crystal clear, the lava buns burst with filling in one bite, and the rice rolls, chicken feet, and sweet soups were all exquisitely made. The pace was unhurried, the flavors weren't overwhelming, and even our child ate with great relish. 🏊 Family Experience While not a traditional family-focused hotel, our child absolutely loved this 'move.' The pool was very clean and well-managed; he enjoyed splashing around so much he didn't want to leave. Riding the elevator in his bathrobe was a definite highlight of his trip. It was also rare for us to just let him be; simply watching his little figure wandering around the hotel made us feel like we had made the right decision. In the evening, he sat on a lobby sofa for a long time, and we didn't rush him or tell him it was time to go. In that moment, his mother and I felt like we were watching a silent movie, slow and tender. 🧼 Service Experience (supplement) All the staff were incredibly friendly, from the front desk and restaurant to the housekeeping team; they were all especially kind to our child. The only minor drawback was that when we wanted to change towels and have the room tidied, we called room service, but had to wait quite a while and follow up once before they arrived. It wasn't a major issue, but the pace felt a little slow. 🌙 Overall Feeling All three of us slept incredibly well. There was no alarm clock, no agenda, and no feeling of being rushed. We simply settled in for a good night in a quiet corner of the city. We weren't here to entertain our child, nor were we on a traditional vacation – we simply wanted to escape from our 'parent' identity for a night. Thank you, Kempinski, for giving us this space. It also quietly planted a little idea in our minds: Next time, we'd love to experience Kempinski's highly-reputed Executive Lounge and Happy Hour. After all, it's widely recognized as one of the best executive club experiences in the industry – definitely worth finding another 'reason to relax' for ourselves. ⭐Recommended for: Parents looking for a brief respite. Families seeking a comfortable overnight stay in Beijing during the summer vacation. Local residents who prefer an unhurried, stress-free experience. Business travelers to Beijing looking for high-standard service. First-time visitors to Beijing seeking a quiet and dignified place to settle in.
From€133

Kerry Hotel, Beijing

9.2/10Very Good2375 Reviews
Guomao Area Beijing|4.46km from city centre
Convenient location of the hotel. The front desk is polite and helpful. The highlight of the stay was the room service. We ordered double wagyu beef burger, that was super indulging and delicious 🤤😋. The hotel restaurant is really nice. Breakfast in the hotel is standard.
From€114

Beijing Marriott Hotel Changping

9.2/10Very Good2735 Reviews
Shisanling Reservoir, Juyongguan Great Wall Beijing|40.96km from city centre
This was my second visit to Changping Ledogang, and the hotel's amenities are still quite good. We booked a balcony twin room this time, which offered beautiful mountain views, a comfortable sofa, and even a bathtub on the balcony. We opted for a hot spring package, and having unlimited access to the hot springs during our stay was incredibly convenient. The hot springs are quite kid-friendly, with dedicated indoor and outdoor areas for children, and our kids had a blast. The breakfast, however, felt a bit more simplified than on our previous visit, and there seemed to be fewer staff members in the hot spring area. We were also a bit disappointed that most of the nearby amusement parks were closed. Fortunately, the dining options at Wanda Plaza were satisfactory, making it a suitable spot for a short weekend family getaway. A big thank you to our hotel concierge, Aileen, who was incredibly thoughtful and helped us arrange our hot spring meal.
From€85

Hilton Beijing Wangfujing

9.2/10Very Good5312 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.25km from city centre
Traveling with my elderly parents and children, I carefully considered many options and ultimately decided on the Hilton. The location is simply unbeatable; stepping out, you're right at APM and Wangfujing Pedestrian Street. Nicole at the front desk noticed we were traveling with seniors and kids and kindly upgraded us to a suite, making the check-in process smooth and speedy. I stayed here for three days, and the breakfast quality and ambiance were both excellent. Every staff member we encountered, whether at the front desk, restaurant, or baggage service, was incredibly nice and patiently answered all our questions. Due to our child's competition, we had to check out for a night in the middle of our stay. When my grandmother returned alone early one morning to check in again, Nicole looked after her every step of the way. Even my usually particular grandmother was deeply moved by her kindness. This hotel absolutely deserves a glowing review; our experience was truly exceptional. For our next family trip, we'll definitely choose this hotel again.
From€128

Regent Beijing

9.4/10Outstanding6527 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.66km from city centre
What a wonderful stay! The breakfast was next level, with so much variety of Chinese and continental options to choose from. Different Beijing specialties are offered each day so you can try all the local street foods here at breakfast! Staff is very helpful and attentive, eager to ensure guests are well taken care of. I would not hesitate to return again.
From€120

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 City: 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 specialty, 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!

Beijing Day Trips: Best Nearby Sights 🚄

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 hours 35 minutes.
    • 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! ✨

FAQs about 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.

More guides for your Beijing adventure 🧩

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

Contact us

About

Other services

Payment methods
Our partners
Copyright © 2025 Trip.com Travel Singapore Pte. Ltd. All rights reserved
Site Operator: Trip.com Travel Singapore Pte. Ltd.