Beijing Travel Guide
China’s capital, where imperial history meets a fast-moving modern city — the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and some of the country’s best food.
Beijing is where most international travellers begin their China trip, and it is easy to see why. The city holds six UNESCO World Heritage sites, including two sections of the Great Wall, and its imperial architecture is on a scale that few places in the world can match.
It is also a practical place to start. Beijing has two major international airports, an extensive and cheap metro system, and some of the most straightforward transport links to the rest of the country. English signage is better here than almost anywhere else in China.
Give the city at least three or four days. One is not enough — distances are large, and the headline sights take time.
Top Things to See and Do
The Great Wall
Mutianyu is the best all-round choice for most visitors — restored, manageable, and less crowded than Badaling. Jinshanling is better for hiking.
The Forbidden City
The imperial palace at the centre of Beijing. Book tickets in advance and enter from the south, exiting toward Jingshan Park for the classic view.
Temple of Heaven
A beautiful park complex where locals gather to exercise, dance and play cards. Best visited in the early morning.
The Hutongs
Beijing’s traditional narrow lanes, around Nanluoguxiang and the Drum Tower. Good for walking, tea houses and small restaurants.
Summer Palace
Imperial gardens and lakeside pavilions on the city’s northwest edge. Allow at least half a day.
Peking Duck
The city’s signature dish. Book a table at a well-known restaurant rather than trying to walk in at dinner time.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) are the most comfortable months, with mild temperatures and clearer skies. Summer is hot, humid and busy. Winter is cold and dry, but the city is quiet and hotel prices drop.
Getting There and Around
Beijing has two international airports — Capital (PEK) and Daxing (PKX). The metro is extensive, cheap and easy to use with an app or a transport card; the Airport Express links Capital Airport to the city centre. Beijing is also a major high-speed rail hub, with fast trains to Shanghai, Xi’an and most other major cities.
Book Your Beijing Trip
Hotels in Beijing
Hotel search widget slot.
Flights to Beijing
Flight search widget slot.
Trains from Beijing
Rail search widget slot.
Tours & Day Trips
Tour marketplace widget slot.
Attraction Tickets
Ticket booking widget slot.
Airport Transfers
Transfer booking widget slot.