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

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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!

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Best hotels in Beijing

5 star

9.1/10Good6735 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.55km from city centre
The most beautiful European-style hotel in Beijing! The lobby, restaurant, and rooms are all very spacious. The service is exceptional; all staff members are respectful, friendly, and attentive to guests. The breakfast is abundant with main courses rotating daily. Although it's an 18-year-old building, it's very well-maintained, and the facilities are comprehensive with a strong vintage feel. I stayed in room 507, which was very quiet. The housekeeping staff are well-presented, professional, and do an excellent job cleaning! Highly commendable.
FromKRW 189,796
9.2/10Very Good12940 Reviews
Guomao Area Beijing|2.52km from city centre
Five-star review! I stayed at the Sofitel Beijing Central for four consecutive days, and my overall experience was extremely satisfying. The location is excellent, close to Jianguomen subway station, making it very convenient to get to Wangfujing, Tiananmen Square, and the National Museum. The room was clean and tidy, the bedding was comfortable, and the soundproofing was good, so I rested very well. The front desk staff were warm and polite, and their service was prompt and responsive; communication was smooth whenever I had a request. The hotel environment is quiet and elegant, and the facilities are well-maintained. Traveling with children, staying here made getting around and sightseeing worry-free and convenient. It's a great choice for exploring urban Beijing, especially since the young lady at the Chance hotel front desk upgraded our room for free and gave us a breakfast voucher for one adult and two children for one day, considering our late arrival. I would definitely consider staying here again on my next visit to Beijing – it truly exceeded my expectations!
FromKRW 143,817
8.8/105901 Reviews
Guomao Area Beijing|4.64km from city centre
I had an exceptional stay at this hotel in Beijing. From the moment I arrived, the staff provided warm, professional, and attentive service that made me feel truly welcome. The room was spacious, spotless, and beautifully designed, with comfortable bedding and stunning views of the city. The hotel’s facilities were outstanding, especially the breakfast selection, which offered a wide variety of delicious local and international dishes. The location was also perfect, making it easy to explore Beijing’s major attractions while still enjoying a peaceful and luxurious environment. What impressed me the most was the attention to detail and the genuine hospitality shown by every member of the team. They went above and beyond to ensure my stay was comfortable and memorable. I would highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Beijing for business or leisure. It truly delivers a five-star experience in every aspect, and I look forward to staying here again in the future.
FromKRW 139,828
9.4/10Outstanding5234 Reviews
Guomao Area Beijing|4.7km from city centre
The room is a compact, drive-in style with a well-thought-out layout. The dry area of the bathroom is a bit cramped, barely okay for a single person. The lounge chair is a bit awkward as you can only sit upright in it. The desk, however, is large enough, making it suitable for business trips. The location is excellent, with views of CCTV and close proximity to China World Mall, which is great for shopping and dining. Line 1 isn't too far either, making it convenient for exploring Chang'an Avenue. The breakfast offers a decent variety, though nothing particularly memorable. The juicer is a nice touch, allowing you to choose fruits for your own custom juice blend.
FromKRW 220,449
9.4/10Outstanding6088 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|0.31km from city centre
The lady at the front desk provided excellent service; she had a beautiful smile. The room was also very spacious, nothing to complain about there. The transportation is incredibly convenient, only a ten-minute walk from Tiananmen, which is fantastic! The only drawback was the pool. It's very small, and apparently, they rent it out? When we went, my child saw several swimming floats lying idle and picked one up. Immediately, a fierce-looking middle-aged woman in a yellow life vest came out and took it away. My child politely asked the 'auntie' if he could play with one of the idle ones, and the 'fierce woman' flat-out refused. I was speechless! For a hotel that costs over a thousand a night, can't they even provide a couple of swimming aids?
FromKRW 144,447

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Business travel

9.1/10Good10567 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|0.86km from city centre
Located in the heart of Chongwenmen, this hotel offers direct access to subway lines 2 and 5, making it incredibly convenient for reaching Beijing Railway Station and major commercial districts. The hotel boasts a rich heritage with a grand and elegant lobby. The rooms are clean and spacious, and the bathroom facilities are excellent, with hot spring amenities that really help unwind after a long journey. The hotel also features a well-equipped restaurant and gym, and the breakfast is genuinely authentic. The front desk staff is efficient and responsive, and the overall atmosphere is quiet and peaceful. For business travelers, this hotel perfectly balances convenience and comfort. A reputable four-star hotel that truly lives up to its name.
FromKRW 116,523
9.4/10Outstanding11234 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.25km from city centre
Staying at the Orange Crystal Hotel in Wangfujing for my Beijing Forbidden City photoshoot was the perfect choice! The location is unbeatable, right on Wangfujing Street, with direct walking access to Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. It's also super close to the Wangfu Century Ancient Style Makeup Studio, so after getting my Qing or Ming dynasty look done, I could head straight into the park for photos – everything flowed incredibly smoothly. The hotel was exceptionally generous with complimentary bottled water; I've stayed in countless hotels and never seen so much provided, so I didn't need to bring any of my own. The lobby amenities were thoughtful and complete, with a 24-hour self-service coffee machine and even building blocks for kids. It really maximized comfort for traveling with elderly family members and children. This is definitely my top choice for travel and photography trips!
FromKRW 140,668
9.1/10Good6557 Reviews
Qianmen (Front Gate) and Chongwenmen Commercial Area Beijing|1.02km from city centre
The hotel's location is fantastic, right in the New World Department Store building, with Chongmun Station on Subway Line 5 just downstairs. There are numerous large shopping malls nearby, lots of great restaurants, and it's convenient to get anywhere. The room's cleanliness was also very good. I particularly liked their hairdryer; it's very powerful, which is great for people with long hair. The only thing I was unhappy with was their internet 🛜 – it's really bad and often disconnects, especially in the bathroom. As soon as you enter, the Wi-Fi drops. I hope they can switch to a better network provider. Everything else deserves five stars!
FromKRW 126,601
8.6/101714 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.47km from city centre
The hotel's front desk service was incredibly attentive, without feeling at all perfunctory. Check-in was quick upon arrival, and they proactively informed me about all the hotel's amenities. The staff had excellent professionalism, being friendly without being overly intrusive. The check-out process was simple and efficient. When I accidentally left a small item behind, they called me immediately and even helped mail it to me. Their handling of the situation was thorough and thoughtful, showing great care in the details. My entire stay was particularly comfortable. They could even help receive express deliveries for luggage and deliver them to the room, which saved a lot of hassle and time and effort. I had a very pleasant stay and will definitely come back in the future.
FromKRW 116,733
9.6/10Excellent5590 Reviews
East Second Ring Workers' Stadium Area Beijing|2.95km from city centre
Extremely satisfied with the excellent service. I couldn't find any laundry detergent in my room, and a staff member passing by immediately got some from another empty room for me to use. After checking out and storing my luggage, I realized I'd left my yogurt in the fridge. The staff kindly kept it for me until I picked up my luggage in the evening. The rooftop pool is absolutely beautiful.
FromKRW 118,623

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Family friendly

9.5/10Outstanding6987 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.28km from city centre
The room was great, and I loved that food deliveries could be brought right to my door by a robot. The location is super convenient, with popular spots like Siji Minfu and Grandpa's Tea right downstairs. It's also not far from the shopping mall. I was really happy with this last-minute booking.
FromKRW 108,965
9.5/10Outstanding12289 Reviews
Universal Beijing Resort and Sorrounding Beijing|22.5km from city centre
My stay this time was quite satisfactory. The lovely front desk staff were very efficient with both check-in and check-out, and their attitude was gentle and friendly. The room was clean and tidy, the bedding was soft, and they had my preferred low pillows. The soundproofing was excellent, so it was quiet at night. The hot water supply was stable and strong. The location is convenient, not far from the subway station. The value for money is decent. I'll choose this place again next time I visit and will also recommend it to my friends and colleagues.
FromKRW 84,611
9.2/10Very Good2549 Reviews
Guomao Area Beijing|4.46km from city centre
Every time I choose Kerry, it's mainly because it's close to my offices in Guomao and Yintai, and I don't have to move rooms if I extend my stay after the company-booked dates. The reservation and concierge staff were all very enthusiastic and quickly responded to my inquiries about extending my stay and receiving a package for me, helping me arrange a direct extension. The hotel rooms are very spacious. Odd-numbered rooms have a fantastic view, directly overlooking the CCTV Tower and CITIC Tower (China Zun), while even-numbered rooms offer views of Guanghua Soho. Although the hotel seems to be a bit older, the facilities are well-maintained. The front desk lady was very efficient, and the staff in housekeeping and the downstairs conference rooms were all polite and welcoming. The concierge team was thoughtful and meticulous. Although it's a bit of a walk from the subway station, the advantage is that you can walk directly through the underground mall, so you don't have to worry about wind, rain, or strong sun – it's truly the top choice for business trips.
FromKRW 191,056
9.1/10Good1007 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.
FromKRW 47,029
9.6/10Excellent6365 Reviews
Guomao Area Beijing|2.63km from city centre
Facilities: The exterior looks quite unassuming, but inside it's a hidden gem with a beautiful garden, complete with geese and koi fish that you can enjoy at your leisure. Cleanliness: Excellent. They even thoughtfully capped our unfinished beer from the night before. Service: Very good. The front desk staff and every other employee greeted us warmly. They were happy to assist with any requests, including providing various disposable amenities for bathing.
FromKRW 138,148

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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.

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! ✨

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