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

Legendale Hotel Beijing

9/10Good6574 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.55km from city centre
I had seen the Grand Hyatt earlier, but this was my first time staying for three days. The opulent lobby and European-style sculptures were impressive. From the moment I stepped out of the car to the front desk, the staff took care of my luggage, which made things so much easier. All the other services also made me feel right at home. If I go back to Beijing, I'll definitely stay here again.
FromJPY 29,263

Sofitel Beijing Central （Accor）

9.2/10Very Good13045 Reviews
Guomao Area Beijing|2.52km from city centre
This stay at the Sofitel Jian Guo Men left me with a great overall impression. Before arriving, I communicated with the duty manager, Eli, letting him know it was our first stay and that it coincided with our anniversary. Upon check-in, he immediately upgraded us to an Executive Floor room and had it specially decorated. The attention to detail was exceptional, and we were incredibly impressed from the moment we arrived. The first impression upon entering was excellent. The lobby had incredibly high ceilings and a grand, bright decor, completely avoiding the oppressive feeling you sometimes get in older hotels. The layout of the Executive Room was also quite interesting; it wasn't just a generic square box. The space was well-utilized, making it feel much more spacious than I had imagined. The service overall was hassle-free. Whether it was dealing with the front desk or requesting room service, any issues were addressed very quickly, with no need for back-and-forth. In the evening, I specifically went to the bar on the basement level. The bartender, Pamper, was very amiable. She asked about my preferred tastes, and the cocktails she made were perfectly to my liking. Overall, it's a hotel with excellent value for money and well worth staying at.
FromJPY 18,863

Grand Millennium Beijing

8.8/105885 Reviews
Guomao Area Beijing|4.64km from city centre
Before booking, I read the negative reviews, which were mostly complaints about the service. After staying, I felt like this hotel was one giant obedience test. Upon entering the room, I noticed a strong smell from the air conditioning ducts. I picked up the phone and dialed 'one touch.' The operator transferred me to the front desk, who said they would get back to me shortly. 'Shortly' meant I had to call again to get any kind of answer. After changing rooms, the next day my room card stopped working. That's when I understood why there was a phone in the hallway. After calling, they said an auntie would come to help open the door. Ten minutes later, the auntie finally arrived. After opening the door, she said a concierge would bring a new room card later. Well, it never arrived within two hours. Eventually, when I went to pick up my takeout, I had to go to the front desk myself to get a new one. The tissues in the room ran out. The auntie replaced them with new ones, but just left the new pack on top of the tissue box instead of putting them inside. I don't understand that. There was a short black hair in the bathtub... The mini-bar was completely empty on the first night, possibly due to the room change. At breakfast, I opened a Chinese steamed dim sum, and there was a black hair inside... Breakfast ended at 10:30 AM, and many guests came at 10:35 AM to get coffee, but it was all gone...
FromJPY 17,633

Jen Beijing by Shangri-La

9.3/10Very Good5293 Reviews
Guomao Area Beijing|4.7km from city centre
My family and I chose Jen Hotel for a quick getaway during the November holiday. This is one of the most value-for-money hotels I've ever stayed in. This time, I booked a room with executive lounge access, which included breakfast, in-room breakfast delivery, and a two-person dinner at Sanwu Tang in the evening. We had a smooth check-in around 5 PM. The front desk staff asked us which direction we preferred for our room, and we chose one facing the 'Big Trousers' building (CCTV Headquarters). During check-in, the front desk also helped us book a dinner reservation at Sanwu Tang. After dropping off our luggage, we headed straight for dinner. Sanwu Tang is a buffet restaurant specializing in Beijing cuisine, offering a complete selection of local delicacies like 'baodu' (tripe), 'luzhu' (stewed offal), 'chaogan' (stir-fried liver), 'douzhi' (fermented mung bean juice), 'zhajiangmian' (fried sauce noodles), and roast duck. Of course, they also have international dishes like beef, lamb chops, and salmon sashimi. If you're a first-time visitor to Beijing and don't want to wander around the streets, you can try all these dishes in one place. Wang Yajuan, a server at the restaurant, thoughtfully explained the food stations and brought us the exclusive drinks menu for executive lounge guests, which we greatly appreciated. (Regular paying guests also have drinks, but the variety is much smaller than for executive lounge guests). This drink menu included four types of craft beer and Evian sparkling water, which instantly made the value for money skyrocket. Plus, the restaurant was filled with Beijing cultural elements, making for a very comfortable atmosphere. The breakfast on the second day was also in the style of Beijing snacks, which I loved, so I won't go into detail. By the way, the online reviews for Sanwu Tang aren't very high, but I think those low-score reviews are unfair. Because Sanwu Tang's main focus is Beijing flavors, both the style and the food are authentic Beijing local dishes. Objectively speaking, some dishes might not be well-received by non-locals, leading to low scores. But if you like these flavors, trust me, go for it with your eyes closed – you definitely won't be disappointed. I also want to mention the gym; it's the largest I've seen in any hotel I've stayed at, with the widest variety of equipment. No luxury hotel in China can compare. The staff also maintained the high service standards of a premium hotel. In summary, this is a hotel with exceptional value for money. It's located in Beijing's Guomao area, and both the service and hardware facilities are outstanding. Highly recommended! 👍
FromJPY 30,161

Capital Hotel（the Forbidden City，Tiananmen）

9.4/10Outstanding6034 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|0.31km from city centre
The location is fantastic! We stayed here to take our child to see the flag-raising ceremony, and it's very close to security checkpoint No. 4. The front desk staff, especially the handsome gentleman, provided first-class service – a big thank you and praise to him! We also tried the German food; the bread and beef soup were incredibly good. Overall, it was a great experience.
FromJPY 15,364

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Business travel

Beijing Xinqiao Hotel

9.1/10Good10596 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|0.86km from city centre
The front desk lady was very attentive. My second stay was still great. The location is excellent, right by the subway station. You can take bus 101 directly to the Temple of Heaven, and it's also within walking distance to Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, not too far. The only downside is that the bathtub 🛁 is too small, and the water temperature fluctuates between cold and hot, and the water pressure is quite low. I even got cold water halfway through my shower, so I didn't dare to wash my hair. For hot pot nearby, I recommend Yayun Li Ji; it's good value for money and tastes decent.
FromJPY 12,410

Crystal Orange Hotel Beijing Tiananmen Wangfujing

9.4/10Outstanding11268 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.25km from city centre
Visiting Beijing during the National Day holiday, I decisively chose the Orange Crystal Hotel Tiananmen Wangfujing branch, and my stay exceeded expectations! The hotel's location is truly exceptional; the subway entrance is right across the street, making transportation incredibly convenient. It's very close to the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square, so you don't have to spend a long time stuck in traffic or taking taxis. This saved a lot of hassle during the holiday travel, allowing more time to explore attractions instead of commuting. The hotel's overall environment is simple yet elegant, and the rooms are spotlessly clean with soft and comfortable bedding, ensuring a peaceful rest after a day of sightseeing. The front desk service was warm and polite, and check-in was efficient and smooth. The Wangfujing commercial district is nearby, making dining and buying souvenirs very convenient. For friends visiting Beijing during the National Day holiday who prioritize convenient transportation, I highly recommend this place!
FromJPY 15,506

Beijing New World Centre Tongpai Hotel

9.1/10Good6418 Reviews
Qianmen (Front Gate) and Chongwenmen Commercial Area Beijing|1.02km from city centre
Check in staff is very friendly, she even allowed me to check in early. Had a large room at the corner with a great view on the 15th floor. Pillows are fluffy & towels are thick n big with excellent water absorbant. At the front of the main door the ”Tongpai” should be displayed so that it would be easier for the guests to recognise/identify since in the Trip.com it has such a name.
FromJPY 12,811

Peace Hotel Beijing(Forbidden city)

8.7/101781 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.47km from city centre
🌟 Heartfelt hospitality in the heart of Beijing! Special thanks to Mike Wong and Hanson Wang for an unforgettable stay!Our stay at Peace Hotel Beijing (Forbidden City) left us with the warmest and most unforgettable impressions. The hotel is incredibly well-located right in the center of Beijing, within walking distance of the main attractions, making our sightseeing trips exceptionally convenient and easy.A special highlight was the lounge on the 19th floor where the club dinners are held. Dining with a glass of wine while enjoying the breathtaking, majestic view of the Forbidden City and Jingshan Park is an unparalleled pleasure! The atmosphere there is truly magical.However, the most valuable and outstanding feature of this hotel is how they treat their guests. We experienced not just a high standard of service, but genuine love, warmth, and true, deep hospitality that is so rare to find these days.We arrived at the hotel very early — at 8:00 AM, exhausted from our journey, and were mentally prepared to wait hours for check-in. To our amazement, we were not only greeted with a smile, but were given a room immediately, saving us from tedious waiting!I would like to express my deepest and most sincere gratitude to Mike Wong and Hanson Wang. They took incredible care of our family. Mike personally showed us two excellent rooms to choose from, helping us patiently and politely. The room we fell in love with on the 17th floor was instantly handed over to us.It is because of such dedicated, caring, and professional employees like Mike Wong and Hanson Wang that the brand builds its flawless positive image, making guests want to return over and over again. I highly recommend that the hotel management recognizes both Mike's and Hanson's outstanding dedication and awards them a well-deserved bonus or promotion. They are a true asset to your team!Thank you so much for an impeccable welcome. We will definitely be back and recommend this amazing hotel with all our hearts!
FromJPY 16,404

Livefortuna Hotel

9.6/10Excellent5894 Reviews
East Second Ring Workers' Stadium Area Beijing|2.95km from city centre
Staff members were all very nice and helpful, especially Li Chenxi who helped us with our last minute package delivery. This hotel is beautiful and has very convenient loft rooms with laundry, kitchen, small sink, etc... the hotel has a restaurant on site, a beautiful lounge area and many amenities including a rooftop pool and a very impressive well-stocked gym.
FromJPY 11,488

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Family friendly

Manxin Hotel Beijing Tiananmen Wangfujing

9.4/10Outstanding6929 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.28km from city centre
I honestly don’t understand how anyone could leave a bad review for this hotel. The staff took such great care of me throughout my stay. The location is excellent, very close to the metro and many of Beijing’s main tourist attractions. What impressed me most was their attention to detail. On my first day, they even wiped down and cleaned my suitcase for me. The food was also really good, and when I was leaving, they even gave me a small gift, which was such a thoughtful gesture. I had a wonderful experience here, and if I come back to Beijing, I would definitely choose to stay here again.
FromJPY 16,664

Park Inn by Radisson Beijing Tongzhou Universal Resort

9.4/10Outstanding12329 Reviews
Universal Beijing Resort and Sorrounding Beijing|22.5km from city centre
This is my second time staying here. I chose the Reber Hotel again for my trip to Beihuan this year. The location is incredibly convenient; after a long day of walking, being able to get back to the hotel for a rest in just a few minutes by taxi is pure bliss. The stay itself was fantastic – the room facilities were great, and the front desk and restaurant staff were all friendly and kind. The hotel also offers a free shuttle to the amusement park, which is a thoughtful touch. Another satisfying and happy trip!
FromJPY 7,942

Kerry Hotel, Beijing

9.2/10Very Good2560 Reviews
Guomao Area Beijing|4.46km from city centre
The apex of Beijing, where the true heart of luxury beats! — A perfect stay at Kerry Hotel Beijing from July 25th-26th If Beijing is a flowing feast, then the Guomao CBD is its most dazzling stage, and Kerry Hotel Beijing sits right in the center of it. During this stay, I truly experienced what it means to “be amidst the bustle, yet privately enjoy luxury.” Arriving on the afternoon of the 25th, from the moment I stepped into the lobby, that grand sense of tranquility isolated me from the noise outside the window. The room was super spacious, and the floor-to-ceiling window offered an unparalleled city skyline view, with the CCTV Headquarters (the 'big trousers') and China Zun tower side-by-side. That feeling of having the imperial capital at your feet instantly made the room rate worthwhile! I must particularly praise the Kerry Club Lounge on the 18th floor! It was truly the highlight of my entire stay! The service from Ms. Lucy, Clara, and Seanna was simply delightful, making me feel incredibly welcome. The lounge's food, whether afternoon tea or evening happy hour, offered such a vast variety that it was hard to choose. The breakfast at 'Jia Pin Restaurant' on the morning of the 26th absolutely won me over—there were 7 ways to prepare eggs alone, plus fresh grapefruit. These kinds of details are truly a huge plus! Although I know this hotel is a representative of the 'old money' opened in 1999, the facilities are incredibly well-maintained. That sense of profound grandeur, refined by the passage of time, is a quality new hotels simply cannot replicate. The gym and heated swimming pool are top-tier for hotels in China, with huge spaces and comprehensive equipment. Even just a swim feels like a luxury. My two-day journey in the heart of luxury left me wanting more. Not only is the location unbeatable, but the service and dining are also exceptional! This is definitely the most 'aristocratic' hotel I've stayed at in Beijing, second to none! ♥️
FromJPY 24,299

The Universal Studios Grand Hotel

9.5/10Outstanding21354 Reviews
Universal Beijing Resort and Sorrounding Beijing|23.91km from city centre
Staying at a big hotel was mainly for the convenience of getting into the park. And it truly was convenient; you just go downstairs, saving a huge amount of time waiting in line at the outer entrance. For this reason alone, the experience was top-notch. The breakfast was adorable; regardless of whether it tasted good or not, it was very cute, and you could even take photos with the Minions and Gru.
FromJPY 35,385

Hotel New Otani Chang Fu Gong

9.6/10Excellent6505 Reviews
Guomao Area Beijing|2.63km from city centre
Though the room was small, it had everything needed, was clean and tidy, and the bedding was comfortable. The toiletries smelled nice, and after showering, I could even take a bath in the tub – truly a Japanese hotel experience. However, I do wish they provided disposable bath amenities. The service was thoughtful. Noticing we consumed a lot of drinking water, they left extra bottles during cleaning, and new, delicious snacks were provided daily. They also left notes recommending attractions and suggested routes. The concierge and doorman handling luggage storage were all very proactive and enthusiastic. The breakfast was abundant, mainly Japanese and Western style. The curry, grilled fish, and Oden were all excellent. The Chinese steamed dishes, however, were relatively ordinary, which I'd sharply rate as not worth eating. Unfortunately, the gym was under renovation and unavailable for use.
FromJPY 15,553

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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

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