Beijing, China’s historic capital, known for its imperial landmarks, rich culture, and thriving modern districts. The city combines ancient heritage with modern life, offering a unique mix of palaces, temples, shopping streets and cutting-edge architecture. Bustling markets, traditional hutongs and vibrant nightlife create an atmosphere full of contrasts. Let’s find the best areas to stay in Beijing and enjoy this historic city.
Best Places to Stay in Beijing
Beijing offers tourists a variety of neighbourhoods: Wangfujing, Houhai, Qianmen, Gulou, Xidan and Guomao/CBD are the most popular.
A lively district with shopping, dining, and close access to major landmarks.
- The Peninsula Beijing: Price from £228. Spacious luxury suites, prime location near Forbidden City, and world-class service.
- Hilton Beijing Wangfujing: Price from £106. Modern rooms, indoor pool, and easy access to Wangfujing shopping street.
Historic lakeside and hutong districts offering charm, culture, and a romantic atmosphere.
- Beijing Houhai Gulou Courtyard Manxin Mansion: Price from £23. Family-friendly hotel with excellent facilities and convenient Houhai metro access.
- The Orchid Hotel: Price from £167. Historic hutong stay with convenient metro access and nearby cultural attractions.
Modern business and luxury district, ideal for corporate travellers and high-end stays.
- China World Summit Wing, Beijing: Price from £158. Sky-high luxury with panoramic views, premium dining, and executive services.
- JW Marriott Hotel Beijing: Price from £125. Modern luxury, excellent business facilities, and convenient CBD location.
Getting to and Around Beijing
Beijing has two main airports: Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) and Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX). PEK handles most international and long-haul flights, while PKX is a newer hub serving both domestic and international routes.
Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK): Located about 15 miles (25 km) northeast of the city centre, PEK is the busiest and most common arrival point for flights from the UK. It is well-connected to the city by the Capital Airport Express, taxis, and shuttle buses.
Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX): Situated around 29 miles (46 km) south of central Beijing, PKX is a modern airport designed to handle growing passenger numbers. Transport options include the Daxing Airport Express, intercity rail, taxis, and buses.
>> Read Our Guide on Getting From Beijing Airports to the City Centre
Want to start or end your Beijing trip smoothly? Staying at a hotel near PEK or PKX with shuttle services can save time and energy, especially for late-night arrivals or early flights, giving you more chance to enjoy the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, and the city’s lively food streets.
Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)
Hotel Name | Estimated Price | Distance from Airport (PEK) | Shuttle Service Info |
VOYAGE INTERNATIONAL HOTEL | From £34 | Close to PEK | Airport pick-up (Free): 2 times per hour, reservations required (15 mins in advance). Airport drop-off (Free): 1 time per hour, reservations required (2 hrs in advance). Business hours: [Mon – Sun] 00:00–23:59 |
>> Find more hotels near Beijing Capital International Airport.
Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX)
>> Find more hotels near Beijing Daxing International Airport.
Getting around Beijing is convenient thanks to its extensive subway network, affordable buses, and the availability of taxis and ride-hailing apps. Walking is also a great way to experience the city’s historic charm and hidden alleyways.
Main Transport in Beijing:
- Subway: Fast, cheap, and efficient with English signage and announcements. QR code payments via Alipay or WeChat Pay are common, and most stations accept contactless Visa, Mastercard, or UnionPay.
- Buses: Scenic, affordable, and with wide coverage, reaching areas beyond the subway. If using mobile or card payments, passengers must scan the QR code/swipe the card when boarding and exiting the bus, otherwise the full fare will be charged.
- Taxis: A convenient option for families or when you're tired. Starting fare is 13 RMB for the first 3 km, and a 20% surcharge will be added at night.
- Ride-hailing apps: Didi Chuxing and Amap work like Uber, offering a reliable and cashless alternative to taxis.
- Walking: Ideal for exploring hutongs, markets, and historic neighbourhoods at your own pace.
Find More to Match Your Travel Style
Luxury & Historic Charm
- Resort-style stay within iconic heritage grounds → Aman Summer Palace (Price from £394)
- Modern luxury, premium service and design → NUO Hotel Beijing (Price from £88)
Shopping & Entertainment Districts
- Elegant luxury close to Wangfujing shopping streets → The Peninsula Beijing (Price from £228)
- Upscale stay in Chaoyang’s CBD with premium dining → Rosewood Beijing (Price from £233)
Family Fun & Theme Park Access
- Immersive stay themed around movie magic at Universal → The Universal Studios Grand Hotel (Price from £149)
- Modern comfort and family-friendly amenities near Universal Resort → Park Inn by Radisson Beijing Tongzhou Universal Resort (Price from £17)
Beijing Hotels Booking Tips
- Book Early for Peak Seasons – Chinese New Year, National Day, and summer holidays see hotels sell out fast.
- Watch for Major Events – Big conferences, expos, or festivals drive up demand, so book your room well in advance.
- Consider Other Areas – Stay in Haidian, Chaoyang outskirts, or Tongzhou for better prices and solid transport links.
- Match the Area to Your Itinerary – Choose Dongcheng for the Forbidden City, Tongzhou for Universal Studios, or CBD for business trips.
- Prioritise Subway Access – Select hotels within a 10-minute walk of a subway station to avoid traffic jams.
- Save with Deals – New Trip.com users can save up to 8% off hotel bookings.