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

9.1/10Good6785 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.55km from city centre
This hotel is located in the heart of Jinbao Street in Dongcheng, just a 10-minute walk from Wangfujing and a short bike ride to the East Gate of the Forbidden City. It's surrounded by luxury boutiques and traditional hutongs, making it incredibly convenient for shopping and sightseeing. The European architectural style is very photogenic and creates a fantastic atmosphere. The hotel boasts a rare French Baroque palace design, featuring a soaring atrium, gilded corridors, gigantic crystal chandeliers, a vintage spiral staircase, and antique fireplaces everywhere you look. It's filled with European antique furniture and oil paintings, creating an incredibly atmospheric and Instagrammable setting. Many international guests stay here, and the overall experience is excellent. I'll definitely choose to stay here again on my next visit to Beijing.
FromUS$143
9.3/10Very Good12784 Reviews
Guomao Area Beijing|2.52km from city centre
I have to commend Destin at the front desk! I was exhausted when I arrived at the hotel, but he greeted me with a constant smile and processed my check-in quickly and efficiently. He thoughtfully informed me about breakfast times and elevator locations, and even enthusiastically recommended nearby attractions and authentic local restaurants. He was incredibly patient and thorough when answering my questions. His attentive service truly melted away the fatigue from my journey. Next time I stay, I'll definitely look for him again.
FromUS$107
8.8/105871 Reviews
Guomao Area Beijing|4.64km from city centre
Here I am again, after less than a month! This time I even braved a heavy downpour to get here. My flight circled over Beijing for an hour before landing, so I didn't get to the hotel until after midnight. It was another one of those check-in and check-out on the same day trips. I was already feeling pretty groggy, but thankfully, Bella at the front desk was incredibly warm and enthusiastic. She handled everything super quickly and thoughtfully, getting me checked in no time. Once I got to the room, I even bothered the staff to open and close the window for me. They made two trips late at night – I'm really grateful, though I regret not catching their names. This time, my room had an even better view! When I woke up in the morning, the sun was even out, and my mood instantly brightened, just like the weather. I got back late from lunch, but luckily, they extended my check-out time. By the way, I once again ran into the ever-elegant Ms. Rose Xiao. She checked out my room card for me at the very last minute. This trip was truly a whirlwind. As expected, after the storm, there's always sunshine! (I hope I got both employees' names right; I always worry about misspelling them.)
FromUS$103
9.4/10Outstanding5197 Reviews
Guomao Area Beijing|4.7km from city centre
When I first arrived at the hotel, the receptionist was busy on a phone call and just said 'I have something to do,' then left me waiting at the front desk. After waiting for a while, I felt really unhappy and dissatisfied! I was tired from traveling and really didn't want to wait any longer, so I moved to another reception area next door. I'm so grateful for the service from the male receptionist there – he was very patient and meticulous. Seeing that my child, though a minor, was quite tall, he specifically helped me find a suitable room and added extra bedding, which was very touching... So, I decided to extend my stay for another night that same day. I also want to commend the male greeter at the entrance! He was so helpful, setting up my navigation and carrying my luggage. He was very dedicated and professional. Kudos to them both, they made us feel warm and at home 😊😉 I highly recommend this hotel to everyone, it's fantastic! At the same time, I want to say that two different service attitudes at one establishment really depend on each individual's work ethic!
FromUS$147
9.4/10Outstanding6167 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|0.31km from city centre
I made a last-minute decision to take my granddaughter to Beijing, and considering we had both young and old in our group, I figured staying downtown would save us time and effort when visiting attractions. So, I booked this Capital Hotel on Ctrip. Online reviews highly recommended its location, citing convenient transport and proximity to major sights. The young lady at the front desk was very enthusiastic during check-in and even upgraded us to a deluxe room for free. From our window, we could see the Beijing Hotel, and a part of the Forbidden City in the distance. The room was spacious and clean, and the bathroom had both a bathtub and a shower, also very roomy. We stayed for four nights; it was quiet and comfortable. We were out early and back late every day, so we didn't really get to fully enjoy the amenities.
FromUS$102

Show more

Business travel

9.1/10Good10527 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|0.86km from city centre
The biggest highlight of the Xinqiao Hotel is its extremely convenient location – directly opposite Chongwenmen Subway Station (where Lines 2 and 5 intersect). It's incredibly easy to get to Wangfujing, Tiananmen Square, and Beijing Railway Station by subway or bus. Plus, there are malls like New World nearby. However, the facilities are indeed quite dated. After all, it's an old hotel that opened in 1954, and some rooms have dim lighting. Some room types are windowless, which can feel a bit stuffy if you haven't confirmed beforehand. I personally recommend getting a room with a window. In summary, if location and transportation convenience are your top priorities and you're fine with the older style of an established hotel, this is a hassle-free choice!
FromUS$78
9.4/10Outstanding11244 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.25km from city centre
Facilities: Very good Cleanliness: Clean Environment: Excellent Service: Very attentive It's very close to Jinyu Hutong subway station, right on Wangfujing Street, so you can explore it every day. The surrounding area is lively and safe, and the environment is clean and well-maintained. The pillows and bed are super comfortable, and the breakfast is good too! Highly recommend! 👍👍👍 Also includes a ticket to Prince Gong's Mansion - adult ticket for entry between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM.
FromUS$83
9.1/10Good6660 Reviews
Qianmen (Front Gate) and Chongwenmen Commercial Area Beijing|1.02km from city centre
My stay here was excellent! The hotel is in a fantastic location – quiet yet central, making it super convenient for getting around. The room was spacious, well-equipped, and very bright, and it was spotlessly clean. The bedding was so soft and comfortable, I slept like a baby. The common areas were clean and tastefully decorated, and the front desk staff were incredibly patient and attentive, answering all my questions. Overall, the service was thoughtful and top-notch. It's truly great value for money, and I highly recommend it!
FromUS$84
8.7/101714 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.47km from city centre
This stay exceeded my expectations! The location is fantastic – shopping areas and attractions are all within walking distance, making transportation a breeze and saving a lot of hassle. The biggest surprise was the hotel's intangible cultural heritage experience program. The instructor was very detailed in their explanation, and the hands-on creation of traditional crafts felt incredibly ceremonial. It was both relaxing and a great way to experience local culture, suitable for both adults and children. The accompanying gym is also worth mentioning; the space is clean and well-ventilated, equipped with a full range of cardio and strength training machines. A workout there really helps shake off travel fatigue. The room was clean and comfortable, and the service was thoughtful and attentive. Highly recommend!
FromUS$97
9.6/10Excellent5495 Reviews
East Second Ring Workers' Stadium Area Beijing|2.95km from city centre
The room was very clean and was spacious. Perfect for a long stay. The hotel had a very nice pool. The staff was excellent. Special thanks to Nicole Li, Cycia Zhang and Chenxi Li. Enjoy
FromUS$80

Show more

Family friendly

9.5/10Outstanding7018 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.28km from city centre
While there was an initial misunderstanding due to a hygiene concern which caused distress on our first night stay that I had to escalate the matter through Trip.com, the hotel manager turned the experience around. The night before check-out, we had a genuine and positive conversation at the lobby. She was humble and openly acknowledged her shortcomings and appreciated for helping her learn and grow as a leader. Good to know that a manager willing to take accountability and desire to improve. Every hotel staff we have interacted with are professional and friendly. Aside from the good service recovery, we loved the hotel's convenience: 1. Siji Minfu Peking Roast Duck Restaurant (四季民福) is next to the hotel along with other food options in the same stretch. 2. The hotel is perfectly located within walking distance to Wangfujing Pedestrian Street (shopping and food). 3. The fun robot that delivers food right to our doorstep! The hotel also prepared light snacks for our airport journey. Overall, this hotel is highly recommended!
FromUS$78
9.2/10Very Good2546 Reviews
Guomao Area Beijing|4.46km from city centre
Overall, a five-star review – I really love this hotel. I'm a foreign tourist and I've traveled to over thirty provinces and ninety cities across China. I've stayed at this hotel multiple times and have also recommended it to my friends and family. The hotel's biggest advantage is its excellent hygiene. The rooms are spotless, and the bathrooms are equipped with smart toilets, which as a foreigner, I particularly appreciate. I do have two issues I'd like to bring to the hotel's attention: First, the takeaway delivery policy. For food safety reasons, the hotel doesn't allow robots to deliver food to guest rooms, so I have to go downstairs to pick it up every time I order. Several times, by the time I get my food, it's already completely cold. Sometimes, it's really inconvenient to go downstairs to pick up food right after showering. My suggestion to the hotel is this: You could prepare a food safety waiver. Guests who voluntarily sign it would acknowledge and accept the food safety risks themselves, allowing robots to deliver food to their rooms. This would both maintain the hotel's management requirements and be more convenient for guests. Second, the bathroom scale in my room is broken and inaccurate. I weigh 180 jin, but the scale showed only 40 jin – the numbers are completely off. Aside from these two minor issues, the hotel is five-star worthy in every other aspect. If these problems can be improved in the future, I will definitely bring my family back to stay here often.
FromUS$131
9.1/10Good1006 Reviews
Communication University of China, Guanzhuang Area Beijing|15.73km from city centre
Thank you so much for all the staff of ibis beijing changying hotel. They are super helpful, even lack of english but they try their best to communicate and understand our request!😍🤍 surrounded by halal meals and 24h kiosk, this place is cozy and near bus stop also, very convenient. 24h receptionist and there is robot to send your packages right in front of your door. Water dispenser and tea making station also available. Clean lobby and spacious room. Available for wake up call and go-to meals if you have to run to airport in the early morning, we are very happy with their service, very recommended.
FromUS$34
9.5/10Outstanding6372 Reviews
Guomao Area Beijing|2.63km from city centre
Due to a typhoon, my bullet train was cancelled, so I ended up staying an extra night at the hotel. This unexpected extension allowed me to visit attractions I originally didn't have time for, which was a pleasant surprise. I was initially worried about extending my stay in the same room at the last minute, but booking the extension through Trip.com was incredibly smooth! I even had a chance to interact with the big white geese in the small garden 😊😊😊. This hotel is great, I really like it!
FromUS$99
9.2/10Very Good1237 Reviews
Yanqing Resort Area Beijing|56.95km from city centre
Our family weekend stay at the Forest Cabin exceeded our expectations! The hotel is nestled in the mountains at the foot of the Great Wall, offering a serene environment. The rooms were clean and well-maintained, and the facilities were comprehensive. The staff provided attentive and thoughtful service, making it perfect for a family getaway. Highly recommended! Our butler, Xiao Song, was also excellent; knowing we had elderly family members, he tidied up the room in advance and thoughtfully brought us zongzi (rice dumplings).
FromUS$154

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.

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!

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.

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!

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

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

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.
> >
things to do in beijing