【China Travel Idea】Planning a Trip to Beijing? Top Things to do

Home ꄲ Beijing Tours ꄲ Beijing Travel Guide ꄲ 【China Travel Idea】Planning a Trip to Beijing? Top Things to do

explore china & asia pacific

In the hearts of countless travelers, Beijing stands out as a star attraction, shining brightly among the vast array of tourist destinations in China. Its rich cultural tapestry and array of historical wonders make it a dream destination for many.

From the majestic Great Wall that snakes across the landscape, to the Forbidden City, a glimpse into the grandeur of imperial China, to the serene Summer Palace and the spiritual Yonghe Lama Temple, Beijing offers a diverse palette of experiences. With so many captivating attractions calling out to be explored, planning a trip to Beijing can sometimes feel like a daunting task. But fret not!

Here, we have compiled a brief Beijing travel guide, packed with insightful tips and suggestions on from itinerary planning to transportation and accommodation.

What to See & Do in Beijing

Great Wall Exploration

Beijing is well-known as one of the best tourist cities in China to view the grandeur of the Great Wall. Visitors can not only admire magnificent ramparts and beacon towers at well-preserved Great Wall sections like Badaling, Mutianyu, and Juyongguan but also marvel at the incredible vistas at Jinshanling or Simatai which were built against steep mountain ridges.

Juyongguan

Easy, accessible by tour bus and car; Historically rich, moderately challenging climb but cable car available

Mutianyu

Accessible by tour bus or private car; Mix of restored/original, suitable for casual tourists and hikers. Cable car, toboggan, chairlift available and family friendly

Mutianyu/Badaling Great Wall Helicopter Tours 慕田峪八达岭长城直升机游览

Jinshanling

Longer drive; Ideal for hikers, campers and photographers. No cable cars there.

Simatai

Challenging, rugged terrain, night tours available; Cable car available

Gubeikou

Challenging access, private vehicle/tour needed; Best for experienced hikers, raw experience

Huanghuacheng

Less accessible and visited, private car recommend. Combines water and wall scenery, good for hiking

Badaling

Easy to get to by private or public transportation; Wide walkways, cable car available, amenities

Flyover the Great Wall | Badaling Helicopter Tour 八达岭长城直升机游览

Tourists who travel to Beijing with families may choose Badaling or Mutianyu with a relatively gentle slope and perfect facilities like cable car and tram; experienced hikers may challenge themselves by exploring precipitous sections like the mentioned Jinshanling or Simatai, or even wild Great Wall sections like Jiankou, which have attracted numerous adventurers with the unspoiled beauty.

Tips:

For first time visit Beijing, we recommend Mutianyu Great Wall or Juyongguan Great Wall; Specially Mutianyu Great Wall is family friendly and suitable for guests at all ages. For return visit, we recommend Gubeikou/Simatai/Jinshanling or even Huanghuachen

Magnificent Imperial Complexes

Beijing has been the capital city of China for more than 870 years, which endows the city with a great number of imperial heritages, below three are definately must visit places.

Forbbiden City

The Forbidden City must be the most celebrated complex, still showcasing its regal majesty with thousands of glorious palaces symmetrically constructed along the axis;

Summer Palace

For a half-day leisure tour, Summer Palace – the retreat for the ancient royal family – could be a great destination. It entertains visitors with a serene view of Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill which are adorned with elegant halls, pavilions, and bridges;

Temple of Heaven

The solemn Temple of Heaven is another must-see attraction impressing tourists with distinctive altars which served as the place for emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368 – 1911) to hold grand sacrificial ceremonies.

Hutong Exploration

The crisscrossing hutongs have become a museum of Beijing's folk customs and history. Today, most of the hutongs are still residential blocks lined with traditional courtyards. There are still famous hutongs, such as Yandaixie Street and Dashilar Street, that have become bustling pedestrian streets filled with time-honored brands, food booths, and distinctive stores of various handicrafts.

The best way to explore hutong life is to simply wander along the alleys, or you may seek a unique experience by taking a rickshaw to tour around hutongs at Shichahai Area or South Luogu Lane.

Route around the Bell Tower

Spanning 1.3 kilometers, this journey weaves through six charming streets: Zhongku Hutong, Lingdang Hutong, Caochang North Alley, the eastern stretch of Zhonglouwan Hutong, Doufuchi Hutong, and Yuge Hutong. This route includes stops at cultural landmarks like the Andingmen Heritage Display and the iconic Beijing Bell and Drum Towers, which offers perfect photo opportunities for those looking to capture their memories.

Route around the White Pagoda

With a total length of 1.4 kilometers, the route includes the West Fork of the Palace Gate, Funei North Street, and the east passageway of the White Pagoda Temple, with stops at the White Pagoda Temple's Sutra Depository, the White Pagoda of the Miaoying Temple, and the Lu Xun Museum.

Route around Hutong Culture

This 1.6-kilometer-long route takes you through nine streets and alleys including Yu'er Hutong, Guaibang Hutong, Mao'er Hutong, Heizhima Hutong, Qiangulouyuan Hutong, Ju'er Hutong, Dongbuyaqiao Hutong, Suoyi Hutong, and Fuxiang Hutong. You can visit several must-see sites such as the Jade River's ancient road, Qi Baishi's former residence Memorial Hall, and the Chunfeng Bookstore.

Route around Shichahai

This route is 2.3 kilometers long and includes three streets, namely the north side of the Qianhai, Liuyin Street, and the branch road along the north side of the Houhai. Along the way, you can pass by the Prince Chun's Mansion, the Prince Regent's Mansion, and the former residence of Soong Ching Ling.

Route around Shijia Hutong Museum

With a total length of 1.6 kilometers, tourists taking this route can tour around four well-selected alleys and hutongs including Dongluoquan Hutong, Xiluoquan Hutong, Neiwubu Street and Shijia Hutong. Featured tourist spots include the Former Residence of Ling Shuhua and Shijia Hutong Museum.

Dining in Beijing

Savor Peking Roasted Duck

Gourmets should never miss the chance to sample the famous Peking Roasted Duck during their Beijing tours. The special taste mixed with the crispiness of skin and juiciness of meat had won this traditional cuisine an important place at the royal court.

Today, there are a lot of restaurants in Beijing, crowded with foodies from home and abroad, among which time-honored brands such as Quan Ju De (全聚德), Bian Yi Fang (便宜坊), and Da Dong Roasted Duck (大董烤鸭) have got the highest marks from locals and offer the authentic flavor of Peking Roasted Duck.

Try creative Dining

The Palace Banquet

The Palace Banquet event in Beijing offers a blend of traditional culture and modern technology. Participants experience royal-level cuisine, ancient costumes, and traditional performances while immersing themselves in the ambiance of ancient Chinese palaces. The event includes demonstrations of ancient crafts and exquisite culinary offerings prepared with the finest ingredients, reflecting the luxurious lifestyle of ancient palaces, particularly during the Qing Dynasty.

When to Visit Beijing?

Spring (March to June)

- Weather: Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and relatively low pollution.
- Activities: Ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities like visiting the Great Wall, exploring parks, and attending cultural festivals.
- Events: Labor Day (May 1st) can be busy, but it also brings various festivities and performances.
Autumn (September to October)

- Weather: Clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and vibrant fall foliage.
- Activities: Great for outdoor exploration, photography, and enjoying the natural beauty.
- Events: Mid-Autumn Festival usually occurs in late September or early October, featuring mooncakes and lantern displays. National Day (October 1st) week can be crowded but offers a festive atmosphere.

Summer (July to August)

Winter (November to March)
- Weather: Hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F).
- Activities: Summer Palace and other outdoor attractions are popular but can be crowded. Air-conditioned museums and indoor activities are recommended during peak heat.
- Considerations: High tourist season with larger crowds and higher accommodation prices. Occasional heavy rains and thunderstorms.

Weather: Cold, dry, and windy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing.
Activities: Fewer tourists, which means shorter lines at major attractions. The Great Wall can be particularly picturesque with snow. The Chinese New Year (late January to February) offers unique cultural experiences.
Considerations: Some attractions might have reduced hours or close temporarily. Pollution levels can be higher in winter.

Tips

Best seasons to visit Beijing is Spring (mid March to mid June) and Autumn (September to early October) are generally considered the best times to visit Beijing, offering the best weather and fewer crowds.

How Many Days in Beijing?

Beijing has no lack of historical sites and modern landscapes to fulfill visitors' diverse tastes and interests. Usually, a typical Beijing travel requires at least 3 days to cover the essential sights of the city, and the following is a recommended itinerary for your reference:

3-Day Beijing Essential Tour

Day 1:

Morning: Arrive in Beijing by flight or train

Afternoon:
Visit the Temple of Heaven and observe locals practicing tai chi or other activities. Explore the Hutongs (traditional alleys) by rickshaw and visit the Drum and Bell Towers.

Evening: Enjoy a traditional Peking duck dinner.

Day 2:

Morning:
Head to the Mutianyu or Juyongguan section of the Great Wall for a hike or cable car ride.

Afternoon:
Visit the Summer Palace and take a boat ride on Kunming Lake.

Return to Beijing and visit the Beijing Olympic Park to see the Bird's Nest and Water Cube.

Evening:Relax with a foot massage or explore Wangfujing Street for shopping and snacks.

Day 3:

Morning: Visit Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City.

Afternoon (if time permits and you are interested) enjoy a Chinese acrobatics show (16:20-17:20 & 17:30-18:30; Departure

✅ Recommended Beijing Trips:

【China Tour】2-Day Beijing Classic Highlights Tour

【2025 China Travel】3 Day Beijing Highlights Tour wt Great Wall

【China Tour】3-Day Beijing Classic Highlight Tour (without hotel)

【Private or Join-in】3 Day Beijing Highlights with Great Wall

4-Day Beijing Tour

Day 1-3: Follow the itinerary for the 3-Day tour.

Day 4:

Morning: Visit the Lama Temple, one of the largest and most important Tibetan Buddhist monasteries outside of Tibet, as well as the nearby Imperial Academy and Confucius Temple to feel the strong cultural ambiance.

Afternoon: Explore the 798 Art District for contemporary art galleries and cafes.

Evening: Visit Beijing Sanlitun, SKP mall or take a leisurely stroll along Houhai Lake and enjoy dinner at one of the lakeside restaurants.

✅ Recommended Beijing Trips:

【Private or Join-in】4 Day Beijing Essence Tour with Great Wall

5-Day Beijing Tour

Day 1-4: Follow the itineraries for the 3-Day and 4-Day tours.
Day 5: Optional depend on your interests:

1) Take a magical trip to the Universal Beijing Resort to immerse in the fairy-tale world appearing in movies and cartoons;

2) Delving into the country's splendid civilization at the National Museum of China or other museums in Beijing

3) Explore the Beijing Zoo and see the giant pandas.

【Private or Join-in】5 Day Beijing and Xian Highlights Combo Tour

【2025 China Travel】7 Day China Must-Sees: Beijing/Xian/Chengdu

【2025 China Travel】8-Day China Must Sees: Beijing/Xian/Guilin

These itineraries cover the highlights of Beijing, including historical sites, cultural experiences, and local cuisine, providing a comprehensive overview of the city's rich heritage and vibrant atmosphere. Adjustments can be made based on personal preferences and interests. You can also combine with other destinations like Xian and other parts of China

Where to Stay in Beijing

There is a great range of accommodation options in Beijing to suit different budgets, such as starred hotels, hotel apartments, courtyard hotels… Here, we list a few recommendations for you to decide according to your needs:

Qianmen Street Area

Qianmen Street is within a 5-minute walking distance of Tian'anmen Square, the National Museum of China, and the Forbidden City. You can find a few busy pedestrian streets in this region, which is very convenient for shopping and dining.

Beijing Jinlin Hotel: Opened in 2010, it offers various amenities including a swimming pool, fitness center, and multiple dining options. The hotel also provides conference and banquet facilities, as well as a business center.
Beijing Qianmen Jianguo Hotel: It is one of the renowned eight hotels in Beijing, featuring a unique architectural style. The hotel offers 410 guest rooms, designed to provide both comfort and functionality. It also houses several restaurants and bars, serving a variety of cuisines. Additionally, the hotel is equipped with multifunction halls and conference rooms, and is famous for its Liyuan Theater, which showcases the Peking Opera.
Beijing Xinqiao Hotel Beijing: Situated in the Chongwenmen business district, this hotel offers 693 rooms and suites. It provides easy access to popular attractions such as the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and Wangfujing Pedestrian Street. The hotel also features a range of dining options, a fitness center, and meeting facilities.
Beijing Bianyifang Hotel (Tiananmen Square Store): Located in the Dongcheng District, this hotel is close to many tourist attractions. It offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant that serves Chinese cuisine. The hotel also provides free Wi-Fi and other amenities.
Atour Hotel Beijing East Gate of Heaven Temple: Located near the Temple of Heaven, this hotel features rooms with city views and offers free WiFi. It is appreciated for its good service and convenient location.
New World Beijing Hotel: Located within walking distance from the Tiananmen Square and Temple of Heaven, this hotel provides large and comfortable rooms. It is well-rated for its location and amenities

Hutong Areas

Living in the traditional courtyards in Hutong can offer a distinctive experience to feel the traditional lifestyle of the city. This kind of accommodation can be found in hutongs near the Forbidden City, Shichahai, and South Luogu Lane.

Beijing Double Happiness Courtyard Hotel: It is said to be the Dongcheng residence of Ji Xiaolan. The 32 guest rooms have their own characteristics, allowing tourists to experience the pure old Beijing flavor.
Qin Tang Mansion Inn Courtyard No. 7: The beds here are traditional Chinese old-fashioned beds, such as carved-frame beds and Arhat beds, and the decoration and environment all retain the original ancient Beijing style.
Red Wall Garden Hotel: It is a courtyard combining Chinese and Western styles, with more than 40 landscape rooms and providing the world's top-notch bed, Duxiana from Sweden.
Lezai Nanluo Boutique Hotel: Its unique and innovative fashion design makes the courtyard full of modern novelty, and tourists can experience the "enjoyment and locality" of the capital here.
Jiqingtang Courtyard Hotel: The decoration style is unique and elegant, and the atmosphere is quiet and peaceful. It also provides breakfast full of Beijing flavor and bicycles, which is convenient for tourists to visit the old Beijing hutongs.
Beijing Shichahai Red Sandalwood Cultural Theme Hotel: As one of the few traditional establishments in the Shichahai area, it is part of the private residence of Sony, the founding hero of the Qing Dynasty. The style is elegant and antique, and there are also red sandalwood furniture. The patio has a ceiling, which is convenient for tourists to drink tea and chat.

Wangfujing Street Area

Wangfujing Street is 30 minutes' walk away from the Forbidden City. Praised as the "shopping paradise" in Beijing, it is one of the most prosperous shopping blocks in the city and houses a few upscale hotels.

Regent Beijing: Near Wangfujing Street, 4-star hotel with an indoor swimming pool, fitness center, and various dining options.
Renaissance Beijing Wangfujing Hotel: This Marriott hotel offers a spa and wellness center and is located in the heart of Wangfujing. It's known for its good location and facilities
Novotel Beijing Peace: This hotel is a short walk from Wangfujing Street and other attractions like the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square. It is popular for its convenient location and friendly staff
Park Plaza Beijing Wangfujing: Located close to Wangfujing Street, this hotel is praised for its spacious, clean rooms, and helpful staff who speak English well. It's also well-connected to major attractions
Sunworld Hotel Beijing: Situated on Dengshikou Street, this hotel offers easy access to shopping and dining areas in Wangfujing. The hotel features friendly and helpful staff, although some rooms are reported to be a bit dated
Lee Garden Service Apartment Beijing: This apartment hotel offers large rooms and good facilities including a gym, pool, sauna, and jacuzzi. It's a great option for longer stays near Wangfujing

CBD Areas

Grand Millennium Beijing: Central Business District (CBD), about 0.45 km from CCTV Headquarters. Offers a gym, large indoor swimming pool, and high-floor club rooms with great views.
Sofitel Beijing: offers deluxe accommodations and dining in the heart of the city, with refined cuisine options and modern amenities suitable for both leisure and business travelers.
China World Summit Wing Beijing: A deluxe hotel offering stunning views of the city, located within the China World Trade Center complex.