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

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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!

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
202 booked
4.9/536 reviews
Beijing Highlights: Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City: In-Depth Tour (Multilingual Guide)
Day tours
£31.30
187 booked
4.8/56 reviews
The Palace Museum in Beijing + English Guided Tour of the Treasure Gallery Including Admission Ticket *3-Hour In-Depth Small Group Tour with Guide
Day tours
1649 booked
3.7/541 reviews
Tiananmen Square Entry Reservation Ticket
Day tours
13 booked
5/55 reviews
Beijing Temple of Heaven Half-Day Tour [Combined Ticket Available in Chinese, English, and Multilingual Packages]
Day tours
£37.89
16685 booked
4.9/55437 reviews
Full-Day Mutianyu Great Wall Bus Tour with 5 Hours at the Site (ENG/ESP/RUS Guided Bus)
Day tours
£12.12

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 H5)
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Best hotels in Beijing

5 star

Legendale Hotel Beijing

9.1/10Good6868 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.55km from city centre
The hotel's location is super convenient; it's just one traffic light away from Line 5, and about a 10-minute walk to Wangfujing commercial area. It's also quite close to attractions like the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square. We stayed in a family room. The first room we entered had a smoky smell, but the staff immediately switched us to another one. The hotel is a bit old, with cracks on the walls in the room, and the TV and toilet facilities are quite dated. On the third day of our stay, it was a family member's birthday, and they thoughtfully prepared a cake for us. The hotel breakfast isn't great value for money. Since we stayed in a suite, adults were 100 RMB and children over 1.2 meters were 50 RMB. There wasn't much variety, so it's better to find some traditional Beijing breakfast nearby. For food delivery, you have to go downstairs to pick it up yourself; there's no robot delivery service. All the staff were very nice, especially the housekeeping team. They were very attentive, especially since we had two children with us.
From£92

Grand Millennium Beijing

8.8/105888 Reviews
Guomao Area Beijing|4.64km from city centre
The room attendant cleaned promptly, and there was a dedicated person in the lobby to operate the elevators. The gym and pool staff were friendly and welcoming. The deluxe view room, facing due east and located on floors 25 and above, is part of the executive level, offering panoramic views of the East Third Ring Road. In the mornings, you can gaze at the 'fog city' (referring to Beijing's occasional haze), and at night, admire the iconic illuminated landmarks. The nearby multi-story PwC building, lit 24/7, evoked many similar memories for me. The pool facilities were also excellent – a truly worthwhile experience!
From£74

Capital Hotel（the Forbidden City，Tiananmen）

9.4/10Outstanding6372 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|0.31km from city centre
My solo trip was made even better thanks to Capital Hotel. First off, the location is incredibly convenient. It's within walking distance to Tiananmen Square, the National Museum, and the departure point for Mutianyu Great Wall tours from Qianmen. Secondly, the service was excellent. They upgraded my room upon check-in, and every staff member I encountered during my four-day, three-night stay—from the doormen to the housekeeping staff—was incredibly polite, courteous, and enthusiastic. Oh, and when I was too lazy to eat out, ordering takeout was super easy! There are so many great delivery options nearby.
From£64

EAST Beijing

9.4/10Outstanding2191 Reviews
Wangjing Area Beijing|10.18km from city centre
Let me give an honest review; this hotel far exceeded my expectations and is a great place that's unfortunately been held back by some unfair negative reviews. The location is absolutely unbeatable, connected to INDIGO mall and right next to the Lido business district, making dining, entertainment, and shopping incredibly convenient. While some of the facilities are a bit dated, and the appliances are indeed a bit small, these are minor issues that don't detract from the overall experience. It even brings back a nostalgic feeling of The Opposite House, which is quite nice. This time, I booked a room with executive lounge access. The executive floor staff were exceptionally friendly, providing meticulous service. The lounge's food and beverage offerings, though limited, were of high quality. I had dinner with friends outside, so I didn't experience the happy hour, but I'll definitely try it next time if I get the chance. Parking, while chargeable, allows for multiple ticket reissues, and the front desk's reminders were comprehensive. I'm really looking forward to seeing its overall performance once it's upgraded to Taikoo Place!
From£55

Grand Metropark Hotel Beijing

9.6/10Excellent7135 Reviews
China International Exhibition Center Area Beijing|7.13km from city centre
The hotel's check-in desk is on the third floor. There's a doorman on the ground floor to open car doors and handle luggage, and someone available to escort guests up to the third floor for check-in. Overall, the hotel is quite good, with nice views. The food delivery robot was prompt, and the housekeeping staff was quick to provide amenities. My only minor complaint is the inconsistent information regarding parking fees. Everyone seemed to have a different answer. When I called to inquire, I was told it was 30 a day, but after checking in, I was told it was 10 per hour. In the end, it was 30 a day again when I checked out. I hope they can provide clearer and more consistent information about this.
From£54

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Business travel

Beijing Xinqiao Hotel

9/10Good9960 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|0.86km from city centre
1️⃣ The hotel's location is truly unbeatable. Subway Line 2 is right at the entrance, and Tiananmen Square is only about 1.5 km away by bike, making it very convenient for sightseeing. Although it's a bit far from the Summer Palace, the location itself is genuinely great. 2️⃣ Now, about the service. On the night of the 30th, perhaps because the hotel is older, the soundproofing was exceptionally poor. Why do I say exceptionally poor? It was to the point where you could hear conversations from the next room crystal clear. This wasn't a huge issue until a man checked into the room next to us on the night of the 30th. His snoring was so incredibly loud that it was impossible to sleep. It was already past midnight, so I called the front desk. It seemed to be an intern who answered, and they very pleasantly moved us to another room, which was an upgraded room with an outer window. However, after the switch, the upgraded room was actually a bit smaller than the original one we were in. Since I had a 30-inch suitcase, it was quite cramped and difficult to move around once opened. Also, the room lacked an air purifier. All in all, the upgraded room was significantly less comfortable than the original one. I asked the intern at the front desk if they could offer a complimentary breakfast as compensation, but perhaps the intern didn't have the authority, so they didn't agree. A few minutes later, the lobby manager called, explained the differences in the upgraded room, apologized, offered a complimentary breakfast, and arranged for housekeeping to deliver an air purifier and a humidifier (they initially sent the wrong item, so comrade Jianjun from housekeeping had to make two trips at such a late hour, which I felt very bad about, but comrade Jianjun's attitude was consistently good and not impatient at all, and I really want to praise him for that). (The room was a bit warm, and I asked the front desk several times if there was a way to alleviate it. One reason was the central air conditioning, and the other was the in-room AC. Even after turning off the in-room AC, it was still very stuffy, and no other solutions were offered. However, the lobby manager on duty on the night of the 30th suggested bringing a humidifier, which felt very thoughtful. Overall, the solutions were very comforting). The room is a bit old, given its age, but most of the staff are very enthusiastic, and transportation is convenient. I would still choose this hotel next time I visit Beijing.
From£50

Crystal Orange Hotel Beijing Tiananmen Wangfujing

9.4/10Outstanding10901 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.25km from city centre
Although the room was a bit small, which might not be ideal for families, the hotel was very thoughtful in offering an upgrade, and even provided a fruit platter. The location, however, is excellent for visiting Wangfujing Street, the Forbidden City, and Tiananmen Square. Jinyu Hutong subway station entrance is right outside, and there are plenty of great restaurants nearby.
From£52

Beijing New World Centre Tongpai Hotel

9/10Good6790 Reviews
Qianmen (Front Gate) and Chongwenmen Commercial Area Beijing|1.02km from city centre
The location is fantastic, especially since I had an exam in the building next door. The experience was excellent – no noise at all, so I slept really well. Even during the winter holiday, the price was very reasonable. The guy at the front desk was super nice. I arrived a bit early and was so cold I could barely speak. Even though we didn't chat much, he upgraded my room right away, which I really appreciated. I heard the breakfast is good, so I'll definitely try it next time I'm in Beijing. I noticed quite a few Caucasian tourists, and thankfully, I didn't smell any body odor – thank goodness! That probably means the hotel's cleaning is top-notch. It was a really good memory. Outside the window, you can see the Chongwenmen commercial area, and there's a Starbucks downstairs that opens at 7 AM, which was convenient for grabbing a coffee in the morning when I didn't feel like eating.
From£50

Peace Hotel Beijing

8.6/101783 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.47km from city centre
### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Beijing **Peace Hotel (Beijing)** Review My stay at the Peace Hotel in Beijing was an overall delightful experience and exceeded my expectations. 📍 **Location** The hotel boasts an excellent location in the heart of Wangfujing. It's incredibly convenient for shopping, dining, and reaching major attractions, making it ideal for both business and leisure travelers. 🛏️ **Room & Comfort** The room was clean, tidy, and well-maintained, providing a comfortable and reassuring stay. Despite being in a bustling city area, the room was quiet, allowing for a good night's rest to alleviate the day's fatigue. 🤝 **Service (Special thanks to the Front Desk Team)** I'd like to extend a special thanks to the front desk staff: **Eric, Zane, Anna, Eva, Harry, and Lena.** All six staff members demonstrated high professionalism and patience. They were incredibly thoughtful in assisting with transportation arrangements, providing directions, and preparing 'Please drive me to' cards, which made communication seamless for international travelers and ensured a smooth and worry-free check-in process. 🏨 **Overall Impression** The Peace Hotel not only possesses historical charm but also balances practicality with a personal touch, making it a reliable and welcoming establishment. While it may not be the most luxurious option, its meticulous service and prime location truly make guests feel cared for. ✅ **Highly recommended** for travelers who value quality service, convenient location, and an overall positive stay experience. I will definitely choose to stay at the Peace Hotel again on my next visit to Beijing.
From£57

Livefortuna Hotel

9.6/10Excellent5191 Reviews
East Second Ring Workers' Stadium Area Beijing|2.95km from city centre
The room was exceptionally clean and the staff were incredibly friendly. They handled unexpected situations brilliantly, and we even received a small gift when we checked out. I will definitely choose Beijing Futian again next time I'm in Beijing. Facilities: Excellent! All-in-one washer/dryer, fridge, TV, and shower. Cleanliness: Super clean. Environment: Every floor was meticulously cleaned, and the lobby was grand and spacious. Service: The staff were attentive and efficient.
From£47

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Family friendly

Kerry Hotel, Beijing

9.2/10Very Good2491 Reviews
Guomao Area Beijing|4.46km from city centre
My patience completely ran out after dealing with the check-in for the first room, then the second – how can a 'five-star' hotel front desk be so torturous to guests? I had planned a relaxing weekend with my elderly parents and children, but instead, I endured a humiliating check-in process at your hotel's front desk. No matter how good the facilities are, they can't make up for the damage caused by terrible service. Here are the awful experiences for both rooms: 1. **First Room: Extremely inefficient and already rude.** During the check-in for the first room, the front desk staff was incredibly slow and absent-minded, especially when entering guest information. What was even more baffling was that she sat in front of the computer but asked *us* to write down our names, only realizing what the names were after we showed her! Do they not understand basic Chinese?! Her face also showed complete impatience. At a five-star hotel, don't front desk staff even have the basic knowledge to input a guest's name? 2. **Second Room: Deliberate delays and insulting an elderly person.** According to policy, check-in should be available by 2 PM, but there was no news about the second room. My elderly parent politely went up to inquire, and the front desk again thrust a piece of paper at them, coldly demanding they write their name themselves. —A young, able-bodied staff member unwilling to write, yet making a seventy-year-old person bend over to write – what kind of service logic is this? Is showing disdain to an elder the way your hotel treats guests? 3. **Problem only resolved when conflict erupted.** There were clearly vacant rooms, yet they deliberately delayed; they could have easily helped, yet they chose to make it difficult for my elderly parent. It wasn't until my parent was forced to get angry, drawing the attention of other staff, that someone came to mediate and promptly arranged the room. We can't help but wonder: if we hadn't protested loudly, would we have waited indefinitely? Did the front desk intentionally discriminate and pick on guests? This experience left us feeling doubly hurt: * **Time wasted**: For two rooms, a significant amount of unnecessary waiting and negotiation time was spent. * **Dignity trampled**: Especially the disrespect shown to my elderly parent, which was disheartening and infuriating. If a hotel's front desk can't even manage basic efficiency, respect, and empathy, then even the best facilities seem disingenuous. Traveling with elderly parents and children is already difficult; we chose a five-star hotel for peace of mind and comfort, but instead, we got extra exhaustion and a heavy heart. I strongly advise other family guests: If you expect at least basic respect and smooth service, please choose this hotel with caution – the front desk here might give you two 'how to treat guests coldly' practical lessons during the check-in process for two rooms. We have truthfully documented this experience and hope the hotel management will seriously address the severe shortcomings in front desk service. Don't let cold faces tarnish your brand. To be fair, the breakfast and kids' club were good, and all other staff were excellent, but the front desk! Absolutely speechless!
From£100

Beijing Marriott Hotel Changping

9.1/10Good2802 Reviews
Shisanling Reservoir, Juyongguan Great Wall Beijing|40.96km from city centre
I was very satisfied with my stay at the hotel this time. The view from the balcony was great, and I got to enjoy the hot springs and swimming multiple times. The complimentary travel photoshoot was also fantastic. The photographer was excellent at guiding poses, and the final pictures turned out beautifully. I took the photos inside the hotel because it was too cold outside, and the photographer created a really rich variety of shooting scenarios. This two-day, one-night weekend getaway was extremely satisfying. Highly recommend!
From£74

Hilton Beijing Wangfujing

9.2/10Very Good5365 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.25km from city centre
The breakfast offered a wide and diverse selection, and the restaurant itself was quite spacious. The flowers in the lobby were exceptionally beautiful. The environment was pleasant, and access was very convenient.
From£108

Regent Beijing

9.4/10Outstanding6620 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.66km from city centre
The Regent Beijing is perfectly located in Wangfujing, close to major attractions like the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, the National Museum, Temple of Heaven, and Beihai Park, all accessible by foot or shared bike. The Dengshikou subway station is right outside the hotel, making travel by metro incredibly convenient. The staff were all very kind and welcoming. Our high-floor room offered views of the Forbidden City and Jingshan Park. Waking up to the sights along the central axis in the morning was incredibly pleasant, and we also enjoyed beautiful sunsets in the evening. The breakfast was also very generous, featuring a variety of both Chinese and Western dishes, including some Beijing local snacks. I would definitely choose to stay here again on my next trip to Beijing, especially if I'm exploring the central axis area.
From£128

Grand Hyatt Beijing at Oriental Plaza

9.5/10Outstanding8807 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|0.86km from city centre
I chose the Grand Hyatt for my medical check-up in Beijing because it was nearby, and as always, I was completely satisfied. Although the room was a bit cramped and there was some renovation noise during the day, the service was excellent, the breakfast was fantastic, and the location was superb. I had dinner at Restaurant No. 1 on the first floor and even got to try Laba porridge. Afterwards, I could walk directly to Oriental Plaza without needing a coat, and I managed to snag a limited edition pair of headphones I really wanted. They even offered gluten-free options at breakfast. The butler service was also very attentive. Considering its location on Chang'an Avenue, right next to协和 (Xiehe Hospital), the room rate was more than reasonable. It was definitely better value for money than my last stay at The Peninsula. I also bought two lollipops from the dessert shop in the lobby on the first floor. 🍭
From£126

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Top 5 Activities and Landmarks in Beijing 🏛️

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

The Forbidden City: China's Imperial Palace

Palace Museum

Palace Museum

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

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

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

Forbidden City Tickets Now!

The Great Wall: A World Wonder

The Great Wall

The Great Wall

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

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

Your essential guide to the Great Wall:

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

Mutianyu Section – our top recommendation:

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

The Temple of Heaven: A Spiritual Sanctuary

Temple of Heaven

Temple of Heaven

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

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

Temple of Heaven Tickets Now!

The Summer Palace: Stunning Lake Views

Summer Palace

Summer Palace

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

Reach the Summer Palace Summit

Tiananmen Square: The iconic symbol of power

Tiananmen Square

Tiananmen Square

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

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

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

Peking Roast Duck

Jing Jiang Rousi

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

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

Beijing Bites & Vibrant Markets

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

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

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

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

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

Best Time to Visit Beijing 🌤️

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

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

Blooming Season 🌸

Weather ⛅️

Heads up! 🗒

Top Activities & Festivals 🎟

Spring (March-May)

Mild (10-25°C)

Perfect for outdoor adventures!

Cherry Blossom

Summer (June-August)

Hot (25-35°C)

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

Dragon Boat Festival

Autumn (Sep-Nov)

Pleasantly cool (15-25°C)

The best season for glorious clear skies

National Day, Moon Festival

Winter (Dec-Feb)

Cold (-5 to 5°C)

Fewer crowds, fantastic prices

New Year, Lantern Festival

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

Day Trips from Beijing 🚄

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

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

Ming Tombs (Shisan Ling)

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

Chengde with its Imperial Palace

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

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

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

Happy travels to Beijing! ✨

FAQ – Things to Do in Beijing

  • 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.

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