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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!

Length of your adventure

Couples' Adventures

Family adventures

Adventures with friends

1 day

Forbidden City + a spectacular sunset at Jingshan Park

Tiananmen Square and a thrilling tuk-tuk adventure through the Hutongs

Wangfujing Street Food + Houhai Lake Stroll

2-3 days

Temple of Heaven + romantic Peking Duck dinner

Mutianyu Great Wall & a fabulous shopping trip to Wangfujing

Daytime adventures, followed by an unforgettable evening in Sanlitun or the buzzing bar district!

4-5 days

Summer Palace Adventure: Unwind with a Spa Session or a Delightful Dinner Cruise

Lama Temple, Science Museum, Great Wall, and a delightful boat trip

Great Wall Tour + 798 Art District + Summer Palace

1 week

Adventures to Chengde and the Ming Tombs, plus Parks, Attractions, and Spa

Zoo, aquarium, shopping, plus Universal Studios if open

Chengde and Jinshanling Adventures, 798 Art District, Cooking Class, and Ming Tombs

Discover captivating attractions in Beijing
See All Attractions
178 booked
4.9/533 reviews
Beijing Highlights: Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City: In-Depth Tour (Multilingual Guide)
Day tours
€44.79
187 booked
4.8/56 reviews
Beijing Multilingual Guide Service [Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Great Wall - English, Cantonese, Russian, Japanese, French, German] Guided Tour
Day tours
1256 booked
3.7/524 reviews
Tiananmen Square Entry Reservation Ticket
Day tours
€3.41
12 booked
5/55 reviews
Beijing Temple of Heaven Half-Day Tour [Combined Ticket Available in Chinese, English, and Multilingual Packages]
Day tours
€48.20
14146 booked
4.9/55245 reviews
Full-Day Mutianyu Great Wall Bus Tour with 5 Hours at the Site (ENG/ESP/RUS Guided Bus)
Day tours
€13.44

Beijing's Must-Visit Districts & Hutongs 🏮

How can you possibly visit Beijing without diving into the unmissable districts of China's vibrant capital, exploring both its traditional Hutongs and its sleek, modern areas? From its ancient heart to its ultra-modern zones, every single neighbourhood boasts a unique vibe that will truly sweep you away on an unforgettable journey.

Here's our hand-picked selection of neighbourhoods you absolutely won't want to miss during your stay.

The Hutongs: Authentic Old Beijing

The hutongs are Beijing's historic heart and soul, a fascinating labyrinth of narrow alleyways that have witnessed over 700 years of history. These traditional neighbourhoods are made up of siheyuan (typical courtyard houses) and offer a true journey back in time. The word 'hutong' comes from the Mongolian 'khudag', meaning 'water well'.

To truly discover the authentic charm of the hutongs, we highly recommend getting wonderfully lost in their winding alleyways – that's where you'll truly immerse yourself in the local culture!

You'll discover some of the most enchanting neighbourhoods nestled close to the Forbidden City and gracefully winding around the historic Drum and Bell Towers. Imagine strolling through, spotting locals engrossed in games of mahjong and lively street vendors, all while soaking in a wonderfully peaceful atmosphere.

📌 Trip.com's Top Tip: A tuk-tuk tour is an absolutely brilliant way to explore the hutongs while savouring the local cuisine! These culinary adventures whisk you away to authentic eateries you'd be hard-pressed to discover on your own. You'll get to tuck into delicious handmade noodles, succulent grilled meats, and even pop into a local brewery!

Wangfujing: Beijing's Shopping Heart

Wangfujing is Beijing's most famous shopping street and the perfect spot to combine some retail therapy with delicious food! This ultra-modern pedestrian avenue stretches for over a kilometre. It's kind of like Beijing's very own Times Square, where life never stops, from dawn till dusk and beyond!

By day, you can explore grand department stores like Wangfujing Department Store and Oriental Plaza, perfect for a spot of international brand shopping. As evening falls, the famous Wangfujing Snack Street truly comes alive, sparkling with a thousand lights!

It offers a truly unique culinary adventure with its bustling street food stalls, where you can discover everything from grilled scorpions and insect skewers to candied fruits and delightful Beijing specialities.

Sanlitun: Nightlife & Shopping

Fancy discovering Beijing's nightlife and unearthing its very best spots? Sanlitun is absolutely the district for you, and without a doubt, Beijing's trendiest!

Boasting over 50 bars and nightclubs, this vibrant party hub is the ultimate meeting point for international travellers, expats, and trendy young Beijingers. If you're craving a taste of home or just a lively Western-style break, Sanlitun is absolutely the perfect destination!

However, Sanlitun isn't just about its buzzing nightlife; it's also a dazzling hub for fashion and shopping. The Sanlitun Village shopping centre is a cutting-edge complex, home to a fantastic array of brands: Apple, Adidas, Uniqlo, Nike, Starbucks, and so many more.

798 Art District: Beijing's Creative Hub

Get ready for a change of pace and immerse yourself in Beijing's vibrant creativity! The 798 Art District is the beating heart of contemporary art in China. This trendy district is housed in former 1950s military factories, featuring unique Bauhaus-style industrial architecture.

A little backstory: artists transformed these abandoned workshops into vibrant studios, sparking Beijing's avant-garde art scene. Today, 798 is a buzzing creative hub, home to over 200 art galleries, museums, trendy cafés, and unique design boutiques.

📌 Trip.com's Insider Tip: Most galleries open their doors after 10:00 AM, and entry is absolutely free!

🎁 Save up to 8% on hotels or up to £39 on Homes & Apts!

Best hotels in Beijing

5 star

Legendale Hotel Beijing

9.1/10Good6856 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.55km from city centre
The hotel was nice and clean the staff where nice enough. Not what I expected for the price level though. The restaurant times seemed to be different everyday, the only issue I had is that the lobby seems to be constantly full of people (not guests) taking photos and while that the perfectly fine in general this was excessive at times and often blocked the walkways to lifts and stairs to access rooms.
From€118

Grand Millennium Beijing

8.8/105784 Reviews
Guomao Area Beijing|4.64km from city centre
The Grand Millennium Beijing has an excellent location with convenient transportation, and my stay was very satisfying. The lobby is elegant, and check-in was efficient and quick. The room was spacious and comfortable, clean and bright, with soft bedding that ensured a good night's sleep. The service staff were warm and professional, responding quickly to requests, which made me feel well taken care of. Breakfast was rich and varied, offering a comprehensive mix of Chinese and Western options, all of high quality. Overall, it offers great value for money and is an ideal choice for both business and leisure travel.
From€83

Capital Hotel（the Forbidden City，Tiananmen）

9.3/10Very Good6391 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|0.31km from city centre
I really hit the jackpot choosing this hotel for my autumn trip to Beijing. When you're here for the fall foliage, you want to be living in the middle of it, and this hotel's window views are just incredible – definitely worth the hype for Instagram. Lots of people come here just to take photos, and the great thing about staying at the hotel is you can avoid the crowds. The location is fantastic. It's about a 10-minute walk to Tiananmen Gate 4, which makes catching the flag-raising ceremony and exploring the square's attractions super convenient. I was in Beijing for 3 days and visited Tiananmen Square twice, getting through security very quickly both times. It seems Gate 4 has fewer people. There's also a bus stop right next to the hotel, making public transport very easy. The subway stations for various lines are about a ten-minute walk away, which is perfectly acceptable for someone who enjoys walking like me. I'm not too picky about cleanliness; as long as it's presentable enough to sleep in, I'm fine, and I bring a lot of my own stuff anyway. So, broadly speaking, I didn't notice any issues, and I didn't pay attention to the small details. But since the hotel has been around for so long, I'm sure it's up to standard. The overall decor is a bit old-fashioned, but it has everything you need. I particularly loved the large bathtub; coming back from the cold wind outside with a foggy head, a bath really clears everything up. The front desk staff were also quite friendly. The only thing is, it's a very popular hotel, and it was fully booked when I arrived, so I had to wait until after 2 PM to check in. Thankfully, I could leave my luggage in the lobby, so I dropped my bags and went straight out to explore without any delay to my plans. All in all, I'm very satisfied with the hotel, and I'll definitely stay here again next year when I come to Beijing for the autumn leaves.
From€85

EAST Beijing

9.4/10Outstanding2145 Reviews
Wangjing Area Beijing|10.18km from city centre
Hidden luxury and refinement amidst the hustle and bustle of Beijing, an unforgettable stay! This hotel perfectly hit all the right notes! The prime location is a huge plus, making commuting and sightseeing incredibly convenient. Even better, you can directly access the shopping mall by simply swiping your card, so you don't have to brave the elements for shopping or dining—a lazy traveler's dream come true. Stepping into the room, I was immediately impressed by the tasteful furnishings. There's no ostentatious design; instead, the materials and lines exude a subtle sophistication. Coupled with art decor that blends in with Beijing's charm, from wall decorations to corner擺設, every detail reveals the ingenuity of Chinese aesthetics, making it feel like staying in an elegant urban courtyard. The cleanliness was impeccable; the bedding, bathroom, and desk were spotless. This attention to detail in hygiene made for a truly reassuring stay. The overall atmosphere of the hotel is incredibly comfortable. It avoids an overly flashy sense of luxury, offering instead a subtle yet profound comfort that makes both relaxation and work highly enjoyable. The amenities are also faultless; the pool water is crystal clear, and the gym equipment is comprehensive and well-maintained. After a workout, you can enjoy a refreshing shower, making it easy to maintain your fitness routine even while traveling.
From€66

Grand Metropark Hotel Beijing

9.5/10Outstanding6969 Reviews
China International Exhibition Center Area Beijing|7.13km from city centre
This hotel boasts a convenient location in the heart of Dongcheng District, right next to Dongzhimen Station on Metro Line 2, making it easily accessible on foot. The staff training system is well-established, with front desk, concierge, and housekeeping services consistently receiving high praise. Staff members are professional and courteous, effectively meeting guests' basic needs.
From€68

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Business travel

Beijing Xinqiao Hotel

9/10Good9819 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|0.86km from city centre
The location is fantastic, right outside a subway station. It's only about a 10-15 minute ride on Line 2 to the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square. Plus, Guorui City and New World are just a 5-minute walk away, making shopping and snacking super convenient! The room was clean and odor-free, and the bed was so soft I didn't want to get up. The staff, both the guys and girls, were incredibly warm and welcoming. I even forgot my charger, and they actively helped me borrow one! The *youtiao* (fried dough sticks) and *doufunao* (tofu pudding) at breakfast were incredibly authentic. There's also a Huguosi Snack bar downstairs, perfect for late-night cravings. It's an established hotel, and it feels reliable. I'll definitely choose this place again on my next trip to Beijing!
From€57

Crystal Orange Beijing Wangfujing Forbidden City

9.4/10Outstanding10713 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.25km from city centre
Very satisfied with the clean room and excellent location. It's right next to Wangfujing Pedestrian Street, and just a short walk from the Forbidden City. There are also many places nearby to experience traditional makeup and styling.
From€64

Beijing New World Centre Tongpai Hotel

9/10Good6732 Reviews
Qianmen (Front Gate) and Chongwenmen Commercial Area Beijing|1.02km from city centre
The biggest advantage is the convenient location, close to the subway, making travel easy. It's right next to Shinsegae Department Store and Chongwenmen Market, so it's convenient for food if you don't feel like going far. The room is quite old, and the soundproofing isn't great, so it's more suitable for travelers who don't spend much time in their room. Think of it as a high-end hostel, and you'll have the right expectation. The service was very good; the room was cleaned daily on time, and amenities were refilled. Just a heads-up about the black and white throw pillow in the room – hair easily sticks to it and is hard to see. On my check-in day, I found long hair on it and promptly tossed it aside.
From€51

Novotel Beijing Peace

8.7/101776 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.47km from city centre
This is an older hotel with many international guests. The location is excellent, especially for seeing Mayday. It's super convenient to take the subway to the Bird's Nest. The area around the hotel is very lively. My only minor gripe is the lack of robot room service, but everything else was really good.
From€81

Livefortuna Hotel

9.6/10Excellent5094 Reviews
East Second Ring Workers' Stadium Area Beijing|2.95km from city centre
I booked this hotel online without much research, and it turned out to be an excellent stay! The location is fantastic, making it super convenient to get anywhere. While the room isn't huge, it's incredibly well-designed with many clever touches. It's small but has everything you could possibly need, including a washing machine, microwave, induction cooktop, and refrigerator. The staff mentioned they use a branded King Koil mattress, and the room also features a Panasonic PM2.5 fresh air system that circulates the air. Even in the compact space, there's a well-designed wet/dry separation in the bathroom and a full-length mirror. Plus, the storage space is enormous! The pool and gym are stunning. There's an amazing infinity pool that's apparently even more beautiful when the skylight is open. I'll definitely have to come back when I have more time to experience that. The air conditioning in the room was quite strong, almost a bit too warm at times. However, the butler service was incredibly warm, thoughtful, and professional, responding promptly to every request! I'll definitely choose this hotel again when I come to Beijing and highly recommend it to friends!
From€58

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Family friendly

Kerry Hotel, Beijing

9.2/10Very Good2452 Reviews
Guomao Area Beijing|4.46km from city centre
Kerry Hotel provided a great stay. Check-in at the front desk was quick, and the staff were warm and attentive. I'd expected the room facilities to be a bit older, but it was actually spacious and comfortable, with a well-designed layout and excellent attention to detail. You could really feel the hotel's dedication to service. The minibar was complimentary, and both breakfast and the Kerry Club lounge were excellent. The hotel boasts a prime location with convenient transportation access in all directions, and Kerry Centre offers a wide variety of dining options, making everything easy and quick.
From€110

Beijing Marriott Hotel Changping

9.2/10Very Good2811 Reviews
Shisanling Reservoir, Juyongguan Great Wall Beijing|40.96km from city centre
We brought the kids to Le Méridien Badaling for a relaxing weekend. The hotel is very close to the Jingzang Expressway, and it only took us an hour to get there from the city, so the transportation was very convenient. The room was spacious, and the facilities were complete, with a nice hot spring and kids' play area. Breakfast was abundant, and Wanda Plaza is right next door. We couldn't get a reservation for the hotel's buffet dinner, but we had a great meal at Oyster Hero instead. Our butler, David, was very enthusiastic and arranged a late check-out for us, so the kids could rest at noon before we left. He also provided four extra bottles of water for the room; his service was always available online. Overall, we were very satisfied. If I had to mention a downside, it would be that the hotel's renovation was done quite a while ago, and it gets pretty crowded on weekends, but these were all within an acceptable range. We didn't have time to visit Kala Planet next door, so we'll have to come back and stay for a few more days next time.
From€85

Hilton Beijing Wangfujing

9.2/10Very Good5377 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.25km from city centre
Excellent location - 1min from Beijing apm and main Wangfujing street. Lots of food around the vicinity but you got to explore a little bit. I booked a Deluxe Twin Room. It was super spacious. Automated toilet seat(open/close) with bidet. Nice bathtub though I did not use it, since it's a hassle to open/close the open concept kind of toilet/bathroom. Breakfast spread was decent but I personally think there could have been more variety. There's a few live station such as the zhajiangmien and omelette station. It was nice. A little more improvement could be made as I noticed the chef not wearing gloves. I do not mind but I just thought a 5 star hotel chef would be wearing gloves. No complains though. Reception staff was very courteous, greeting you whenever they see you. Excellent service. Cons - I think the lobby is way too small for a 5 star hotel like Hilton. There are only 2 seats and a long sofa which can sit up to 5 pax(maybe?). There are always guests around, so usually, I would have no place to sit. Though it's not an issue for me, I thought those elderly might need them. I walked around Wangfujing and noticed neighbouring hotels such as Regent, Novotel(4-star) has very huge lobby. But it is what it is. Overall - Nice place, great service staff and spacious room. Breakfast spread could be better and open concept bathroom can be automated such that it is easy for people to close the doors. Lobby size is a big minus. Loved the free toiletries/amenities next to reception area. Face oil, cleanser, toner & cream from DHC brand
From€122

Regent Beijing

9.4/10Outstanding6632 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.66km from city centre
Choosing the Regent Hotel for my business trip was absolutely the right decision! As a five-star hotel, it truly delivers on luxury, making for an excellent experience. The location deserves a special mention; it's incredibly convenient for getting anywhere. It's just a short walk to Metro Lines 1 and 5, making travel effortless. Right outside the hotel, within 100 meters, there's a shopping mall with so many shopping and dining options that you'll be spoiled for choice – all your retail and food needs are easily met! The room itself was an even bigger surprise. It was exceptionally spacious, bright, and well-lit. The floor-to-ceiling window offered an amazing view, and relaxing there while enjoying the scenery was incredibly comfortable. The facilities were also comprehensive. The pillows and mattress were perfectly comfortable; I slept soundly straight through till morning, feeling completely refreshed. Breakfast is also worth highlighting. There was a wide variety of both Chinese and Western dishes, with plenty of choices, ensuring a satisfying start to each day. I also want to especially thank the staff. They were enthusiastic and polite throughout, always thinking of the guests' needs, and providing truly attentive service. They definitely deserve a big thumbs up! I had such a pleasant stay these past few days. I'll definitely choose this place again on my next visit!
From€121

Grand Hyatt Beijing at Oriental Plaza

9.5/10Outstanding8450 Reviews
Tian'Anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|0.86km from city centre
My recent stay at the Grand Hyatt Beijing was nothing short of spectacular. From the moment I arrived, I was welcomed by warm smiles and incredibly attentive staff. The hotel itself is stunning—elegant, beautifully maintained, and truly deserving of its 5-star reputation. My room was absolutely amazing. The bed was exceptionally comfortable, the amenities were thoughtfully arranged, and the room view was simply breathtaking. Every detail felt intentional, making it incredibly easy to relax and feel at home. Service throughout the hotel was flawless. The front desk, concierge, F&B team, and especially the housekeeping staff delivered hospitality at the highest level. Breakfast was a highlight of each morning—fresh, delicious, and beautifully presented. The egg benedicts were mouth-watering, and the selection of Chinese dishes was rich, authentic, and wonderfully satisfying. Location wise- very accessible via Wangfujing metro station, and its connected to the Oriental Plaza. So easy landmark to spot on. Its nearby Tiananmen Square, Forbidden Palace .. and veey central at heart of Beijing city But what made this stay unforgettable too were the housekeepers, Chris and Betty. Their professionalism and thoughtfulness left a deep impression on me. They were always prompt, extremely accommodating, and provided exactly the right level of service—never intrusive, always attentive. Their care and dedication are rare to find and added a genuine warmth to my stay. Overall, the Grand Hyatt Beijing exemplifies true luxury. Exceptional service, comfortable rooms, beautiful surroundings, and staff who genuinely care about your experience—this is what a 5-star stay should feel like. Definitely wll return if I am back in city of beijing.
From€183

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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 City: A Foodie's Guide 🍜

Peking Roast Duck

Jing Jiang Rousi

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

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

Beijing Bites & Vibrant Markets

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

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

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

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

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

Best Time to Visit Beijing 🌤️

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

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

Blooming Season 🌸

Weather ⛅️

Heads up! 🗒

Top Activities & Festivals 🎟

Spring (March-May)

Mild (10-25°C)

Perfect for outdoor adventures!

Cherry Blossom

Summer (June-August)

Hot (25-35°C)

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

Dragon Boat Festival

Autumn (Sep-Nov)

Pleasantly cool (15-25°C)

The best season for glorious clear skies

National Day, Moon Festival

Winter (Dec-Feb)

Cold (-5 to 5°C)

Fewer crowds, fantastic prices

New Year, Lantern Festival

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

Beijing Day Trips: Best Nearby Sights 🚄

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

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

Ming Tombs (Shisan Ling)

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

Chengde with its Imperial Palace

  • Journey time:
    • By high-speed train via Chengde South: just 2 hours!
    • By regular train: expect your journey to last around 4 to 4 hours 35 minutes.
    • By car: just 2 hours 20 minutes
  • Transport: by high-speed train or delightful day trips
  • Must-sees: the Qing Imperial Summer Resort, Buddhist and Tibetan temples
Book your excursions from Beijing

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

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

Happy travels to Beijing! ✨

FAQs about things to do in Beijing

  • Things to see and do in Beijing if I have 1 day?

    If you only have one day, focus on the essentials: start with the Forbidden City in the morning (book in advance!), then cross Tiananmen Square. After lunch, explore the Hutongs by tuk-tuk for an authentic experience. Finish at Jingshan Park to admire the sunset over the Forbidden City!

  • Things to see and do in Beijing if I have 2-3 days?

    With two or three days, add the Temple of Heaven (go early in the morning), the Summer Palace with its lake, and dedicate a day to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. Over three days, also explore Sanlitun for shopping, the 798 Art District for contemporary art, and enjoy Peking Duck in a traditional restaurant!

  • Things to see and do in Beijing if I have 4 days?

    With four days in Beijing, you can combine the best activities with a day trip to either the Ming Tombs or Jinshanling. Enjoy the Lama Temple, take part in a Chinese cooking class, or relax at a spa. You'll also have enough time to explore Wangfujing and do some shopping!

  • What to do in Beijing when it rains?

    Don't let the rain spoil your day in Beijing - there are plenty of indoor options! You can explore excellent museums like the National Museum of China or the Palace Museum, browse the shopping malls around Wangfujing, or relax in a traditional Chinese spa. For a cultural experience, why not join a calligraphy workshop or settle in for a leisurely Peking Duck lunch?

  • What to do in Beijing in the evenings?

    Beijing offers plenty to do after dark! Stroll through the illuminated Wangfujing district and sample local street food, or explore Sanlitun's vibrant bar scene. For culture, catch a Peking Opera or acrobatics show. Alternatively, book a night cruise or a guided tour of the lantern-lit Hutongs through Trip.com.

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