AirBnb
Beijing offers various Airbnb options, ranging from city center apartments to quieter suburban houses, including hutong houses and luxury villas. It is especially suitable for group or family travel.
Beijing Travel Guide
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9 photos
Duration
5 - 7 days
Best Visit Dates
Spring - Autumn
Currency
Chinese Yuan
Local Language
Chinese
Beijing: Explore Chinaโs Historic Capital of Ancient Wonders and Modern Progress
Beijing, Chinaโs capital, is a city rich in history and modernity. Known for its historic landmarks such as the Forbidden City, Great Wall of China, and the Temple of Heaven, Beijing offers a captivating blend of ancient heritage and contemporary advancements. Visitors can explore imperial palaces, stroll through traditional hutongs, and experience modern cultural developments. Beijingโs unique mix of historical significance and rapid modernization makes it a fascinating destination for travelers seeking a deep dive into Chinaโs past and present.
Top Must-Attend Events in Beijing
Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is the most important and longest celebration in China. During this period, the city hosts grand celebrations, fireworks displays, family gatherings, and temple fairs. The festival is marked by vibrant decorations, traditional performances, and a festive atmosphere throughout Beijing.
Chinese New Year (Spring Festival)
Late January - Mid February
A traditional festival celebrated throughout China, the Dragon Boat Festival in Beijing stands out for its unique cultural activities and grand celebrations. Spectators gather to watch the thrilling dragon boat races, enjoy traditional foods like sticky rice dumplings (zongzi), and participate in various folk customs that mark this important festival.
Beijing Dragon Boat Festival
June
This famous temple fair is held during the Lunar New Year and features traditional performances, food stalls, and craft markets. Ditan Parkโs Temple Fair offers an immersive experience of Chinese New Year customs, including folk dancing, acrobatic shows, and opportunities to try out various local snacks.
Temple Fair at Ditan Park (Earth Temple)
February (Lunar New Year)
Best Summer Activities in Beijing
The summer season in Beijing is hot and humid. However, it is also a great time to fully experience the city’s energy and vibrancy.
Explore the Great Wall of China:ย Visiting the Great Wall early in the morning is a good way to avoid the heat. You can hike in the Badaling or Mutianyu sections and enjoy this massive historical structure.
Nightlife in Sanlitun: Sanlitun is a vibrant entertainment district perfect for summer evenings. Filled with bars, clubs, and restaurants, you can enjoy the nightlife and sip cool drinks on open-air terraces.
Beaches and Water Parks:To cool off in the summer heat, water parks and artificial beaches in Beijing are great options. Places like Happy Magic Water Cube or Crab Island Water Park offer a fun day filled with water activities.
Best Winter Activities in Beijing
The winter season in Beijing is cold and dry. However, during winter, Beijing takes on a unique and captivating atmosphere.
Walking on the Frozen Lake at the Summer Palace:In winter, Kunming Lake at the Summer Palace freezes over, allowing for walking or ice skating on the lake. The winter scenery of the palace and activities on the frozen lake provide a fun and enjoyable day.
Ice Festivals and Ice Skating:ย Beijing hosts various ice festivals and has several ice skating rinks. Places like Beihai Park and Houhai Lake offer ice skating and ice sculpture displays. These activities are a great way to enjoy the winter season.
New Year and Spring Festival Celebrations:Beijing comes alive with celebrations for the Chinese New Year and Spring Festival. During this period, the city hosts various events, traditional performances, and fireworks displays. These celebrations offer a close-up experience of Chinese culture and traditions.
Best and Busiest Time in Beijing
Chinese New Year (Spring Festival)
Late January - Early February
Chinese New Year, usually celebrated in late January or early February, is one of the busiest travel periods in Beijing and across China. Many people travel to visit their families, and there are large celebrations in the city.
National Day Holiday (Golden Week)
Octobers First Week
Starting on October 1st and lasting for a week, the National Day Holiday is the second largest travel season in China. Beijing's historical and cultural sites become particularly crowded during this period.
Summer Vacation
June - August
The summer vacation period, from June to August, is when students and families travel. Beijing sees a high influx of both domestic and international tourists during these months
Quietest Times to Visit Beijing
Late Autumn
November
November is a time when visitor numbers decrease following the summer vacation and China's Golden Week holiday. The weather starts to cool, but it is usually not extremely cold, making it an ideal time to explore the city.
Early Winter
December - Early January
The period before Chinese New Year, in December and early January, is one of the least crowded times in Beijing. The weather is cold, but the crowds at tourist attractions are reduced. This makes it a peaceful time to visit historical and cultural sites.
Early Spring
March - May
March is another quiet period with relatively low tourist numbers. The weather gradually starts to warm up, and the first signs of spring appear. Parks and gardens in the city come to life, offering a relaxing visit away from the crowds.
Top 3 Must-See Iconic Landmarks in Beijing
Beijing is a city with many amazing places to explore, but three iconic places in particular that should be visited are:
The Forbidden City
The Forbidden City is a massive palace complex that served as the home of Chinese emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties. With over 980 buildings and countless rooms, it is a place full of history and splendor. Every corner of the palace is filled with details reflecting China's rich history and culture. Guided tours help you understand the depths of the palace better.
Transportation:
Metro: You can take Line 1 and get off at Tiananmen West or Tiananmen East stations.
Bus: Buses 1, 2, 52, and 82 go to Tiananmen Square.
Taxi: Easily accessible by taxi from the city center.
The Great Wall of China
One of the most famous structures in the world, the Great Wall of China, is located just outside Beijing. The Badaling and Mutianyu sections are the most popular and accessible for tourists. Exploring the Wall offers a great opportunity to hike with stunning views and experience history. Its snow-covered beauty in winter is particularly enchanting.
Transportation:
Badaling:
Train: Take the S2 train from Beijing North Railway Station to Badaling.
Bus: Take Bus 877 from Deshengmen Bus Terminal to Badaling.
Mutianyu:
Bus: Take the 916 Express bus from Dongzhimen Long Distance Bus Station to Huairou District, then transfer to Bus 936.
Private Tour: Many tour operators in the city offer easy access through organized tours.
Tiananmen Square
Tiananmen Square, one of the largest squares in the world, has hosted many significant events in China's modern history. Important buildings such as the National Museum of China and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong surround the square. The square, crowded throughout the day, is especially noteworthy for its flag-raising ceremony in the early morning.
Transportation:
Metro: Take Line 1 to Tiananmen West or Tiananmen East stations, or Line 2 to Qianmen station.
Bus: Buses 1, 2, 52, and 82 stop directly next to the square.
Taxi: Easily accessible by taxi from the city center.
These three iconic and popular places offer excellent opportunities to explore Beijing's history, cultural heritage, and modern face. Each one promises experiences that will make your time in the city more meaningful and enjoyable.
Top Attractions and Must-Visit Places in Beijing
- All Places
- Scenery & Nature
- Historical & Cultural
- Shopping & Entertainment
The Summer Palace
The Summer Palace is an imperial palace famous for its magnificent gardens, ponds, and historic buildings. You can take a boat tour on Kunming Lake or enjoy the view from Longevity Hill. It is an ideal place to cool off and find peace during the summer. Every corner of the palace reflects the elegance of the Qing dynasty.
The Great Wall of China at Mutianyu
The Mutianyu section of the Great Wall offers breathtaking views and a less crowded experience compared to other sections. This part of the wall is well-preserved and surrounded by lush forests, providing a great combination of history and nature. Visitors can hike along the wall or take a cable car to enjoy panoramic views of the rolling hills and ancient architecture.
The Forbidden City
As the former imperial palace of Chinese emperors for nearly 500 years, the Forbidden City is a UNESCO World Heritage site that provides an extraordinary look into Chinaโs imperial past. This vast complex is home to intricate palaces, temples, and gardens, with countless relics on display. Visitors can explore the stunning architecture and learn about the lives of emperors, empresses, and their court.
The Temple of Heaven
The Temple of Heaven is a religious complex where Ming and Qing emperors prayed for good harvests. The round temple with its blue roof is architecturally fascinating, and the expansive park areas are popular for morning exercises. Walking in the park around the temple offers a tranquil experience.
The Lama Temple
The Lama Temple is Beijing's largest and most important Tibetan Buddhist temple. It stands out with its colorful decorations and a gigantic Buddha statue. The temple provides visitors with a peaceful and mystical atmosphere. The art and statues inside are also worth seeing.
798 Art District
This area, where old factory buildings have been transformed into art galleries and studios, has become a center for modern and contemporary art. You can explore different artworks while strolling through the streets and meet local artists. The cafes and restaurants in the area are ideal for a break.
Wangfujing Street
One of Beijing's busiest shopping streets, Wangfujing is where modern shopping meets tradition. The street is filled with high-end brands, boutiques, and unique snack stalls offering everything from local delicacies to international cuisine. Itโs a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering a blend of entertainment, food, and shopping in one place.
Beihai Park
Beihai Park is one of the oldest and largest imperial gardens in Beijing. It is famous for its White Pagoda and lake views. You can rent a boat and enjoy a peaceful walk in the park. In early spring, the park is filled with blooming flowers.
Wangfujing Street
Wangfujing Street is one of Beijing's most famous shopping streets. It is full of modern stores, traditional shops, and street food stalls. Walking down the street offers a great opportunity for shopping and tasting local delicacies.
Top Local Dishes and Food Recommendations in Beijing
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Must-Try Restaurants in Beijing
- All Restaurants
- Luxury
- Medium Budget
- Low Budget
Duck de Chine
Famous for its Peking duck and modern Chinese cuisine. It stands out with its elegant decor and extensive wine selection.
TRB Hutong
Offers modern European cuisine. It is known for its refined atmosphere and location in a historic hutong.
Jing Yaa Tang
Serves classic Chinese dishes with a modern twist. Known for its Peking duck and dim sum varieties.
Da Dong Roast Duck Restaurant
Famous for its Peking duck. The restaurant features a blend of modern and traditional decor.
Din Tai Fung
A Taiwanese chain restaurant known for its xiaolongbao (steamed buns) and noodle dishes.
Xian Lao Man
Serves traditional Chinese dumplings (jiaozi) and noodle dishes. Known for its cozy atmosphere.
Mr. Shi's Dumplings
Offers delicious dumplings filled with various ingredients. It has a casual and friendly environment.
Jiumen Xiaochi
A food market offering traditional Beijing street food. You can try affordable and tasty dishes from different stalls.
Gulou Eryou
A popular noodle and snack restaurant, especially known for its noodle soups.
Best Hotels and Accommodation Options in Beijing
The Peninsula Beijing Nightly Budget: 450$ - 750$
Description: The Peninsula Beijing offers luxurious suites, a fully equipped spa, and an indoor swimming pool, catering to those seeking an opulent stay.
Location: Located in the heart of Beijing's bustling Wangfujing district, providing easy access to major attractions and shopping areas.
Aman Summer Palace Nightly Budget: 500$ - 900$
Description: Aman Summer Palace is a luxury resort featuring traditional Chinese architecture and a serene atmosphere.
Location: Situated adjacent to the historic Summer Palace in Haidian District, making it ideal for those interested in cultural and historical sites.
Rosewood Beijing Nightly Budget: 350$ - 600$
Description: Rosewood Beijing boasts stylish and modern rooms, an extensive spa area, and various gourmet restaurants.
Location: Nestled in the vibrant Chaoyang District, offering convenient access to Beijing's business and entertainment districts.
Park Plaza Beijing WangfujingNightly Budget: 120$ - 200$
Description: Park Plaza Beijing Wangfujing features modern and comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and affordable restaurants.
Location: Located on Jinbao Street in Dongcheng District, making it a great base for exploring Beijing's main attractions.
Novotel Beijing Peace Nightly Budget: 90$ - 150$
Description: Novotel Beijing Peace offers a central location, family-friendly services, and an indoor swimming pool.
Location: Situated in the Wangfujing area of Dongcheng District, ideal for both leisure and business travelers.
Holiday Inn Express Beijing Dongzhimen Nightly Budget: 80$ - 130$
Description: Holiday Inn Express Beijing Dongzhimen provides comfortable and modern rooms, free breakfast, and a fitness center.
Location: Located on Chunxiu Road in Dongcheng District, ensuring easy access to Beijing's main tourist spots.
Crowne Plaza Beijing Chaoyang U-Town Nightly Budget: 110$ - 180$
Description: Crowne Plaza Beijing Chaoyang U-Town features elegant rooms, an indoor swimming pool, and various dining options.
Location: Positioned in Chaoyang District, with proximity to a shopping mall for added convenience.
Peking Youth Hostel Nightly Budget: 20$ - 50$
Description: Peking Youth Hostel provides comfortable and clean rooms with common areas and a friendly atmosphere.
Location: Located on Nanluogu Xiang in Dongcheng District, allowing for easy exploration of Beijing's popular hutongs and cultural sites.
365 Inn Beijing Qianmen Nightly Budget: 25$ - 60$
Description: 365 Inn Beijing Qianmen offers budget-friendly and clean accommodation with a bar and restaurant.
Location: Situated on Nanluogu Xiang in Dongcheng District, ideal for travelers looking to explore Beijing on a budget.
Beijing Downtown Backpackers Accommodation Nightly Budget: 15$ - 40$
Description: Beijing Downtown Backpackers Accommodation features budget-friendly dorms and private rooms, common areas, and a friendly atmosphere.
Location: Located on Nanluogu Xiang in Dongcheng District, making it perfect for backpackers wanting to experience the heart of Beijing.
Unique Stays and Alternative Accommodation in Beijing
Alternative accommodation options in Beijing include boutique guesthouses featuring traditional Chinese architecture and hostels. Additionally, apartment rentals and Airbnb options in central areas of the city offer a more independent and local experience.
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2
Hostels
Hostels in the city provide economical accommodation options, particularly for young travelers and backpackers. Shared dormitories and private rooms are available. Popular hostels include Peking International Youth Hostel and Beijing Heyuan Courtyard International Hostel.
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Serviced Apartments
Suitable for long-term stays, serviced apartments offer fully equipped apartments with hotel services. They include kitchens, laundry facilities, and cleaning services. Popular options are Fraser Suites CBD Beijing and Oakwood Residence Beijing.
Beijing Travel Costs
These budgets provide a general overview of the cost for a 5-7 day trip to Beijing, catering to different travel styles and budgets. The costs may vary depending on personal preferences and spending habits.
Luxury Budget
Average
$
6125
5 - 7 Days
-
Acomodation 4025$
-
Food 1050$
-
Transportation 500$
-
Activities 550$
These figures are average values.
Mid-Range Budget
Average
$
1630
5 - 7 Days
-
Accomodation 980$
-
Food 350$
-
Transportation 105$
-
Activities 245$
These figures are average values.
Low Budget
Average
$
420
5 - 7 Days
-
Accomodation 210$
-
Food 110$
-
Transportation 50$
-
Activities 55$
These figures are average values.
Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Beijing
Top Picks for Traveling with Kids
Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Beijing
Top Picks for Traveling with Kids
These hotels are preferred accommodation options for families with children due to their spacious rooms, child-friendly amenities, and central locations. They ensure a pleasant and comfortable family vacation in Beijing.
Fairmont Beijing Hotel Nightly Budget: 180$ - 300$
Fairmont Beijing offers spacious and comfortable rooms for families. The hotel features an indoor swimming pool, a kids' club, and child-friendly dining options. Its central location provides easy access to major tourist attractions in the city.
Kerry Hotel, BeijingNightly Budget: 200$ - 350$
Kerry Hotel provides ideal amenities for families with children. The hotel has a large indoor play area and special activities for kids. Additionally, it offers spacious family rooms and restaurants with kid-friendly menus, creating a fun and relaxing environment for children.
NUO Hotel BeijingNightly Budget: 150$ - 300$
NUO Hotel stands out with its modern and stylish design, offering various amenities for families with children. The hotel has spacious family rooms, activities for kids, and a swimming pool. Its restaurants offer kid-friendly menus, and the hotelโs central location ensures easy transportation.
Top Attractions for Kids in Beijing
Fun Places to Explore with Children
Top Attractions for Kids in Beijing
Fun Places to Explore with Children
- All Places
Beijing Zoo
Famous for its giant pandas, this zoo also houses a variety of other animals like tigers and monkeys. It offers a fun and educational experience for children with spacious enclosures and informative signs.
China Science and Technology Museum
This museum features numerous interactive exhibits covering topics like physics, biology, and space. Children can engage in hands-on activities and watch educational films in the IMAX theater.
Ritan Park
One of Beijing's oldest parks, it has playgrounds, boating ponds, and picnic areas. It's a peaceful escape where children can play and families can enjoy outdoor activities together.
Happy Valley Beijing
A large amusement park filled with thrilling rides, water attractions, and themed areas, Happy Valley Beijing provides endless entertainment for children of all ages, making it a perfect spot for a fun family day out.
Beijing Aquarium
Located within Beijing Zoo, it showcases a wide range of marine life, including sharks and dolphins. The aquarium offers educational programs and entertaining shows, making it a fascinating visit for children.
Beijing World Park
Beijing World Park is an educational and entertaining destination where children can explore miniature replicas of famous landmarks from around the world. It offers a unique way for kids to learn about global cultures while enjoying fun outdoor activities in a theme park setting.
Travel Routes in Beijing
For Kids and Parents
Travel Routes in Beijing
For Kids and Parents
Tour Plan
Day 01
Beijing Zoo and Beijing Aquarium
- Beijing Zoo: Home to a wide collection of animals including giant pandas, this zoo offers a fun and educational experience for children.
- Beijing Aquarium: The largest inland aquarium in Asia, where children can learn about marine life and enjoy an engaging visit.
Day 02
Forbidden City and Jingshan Park
- Forbidden City: Exploring the imperial palace and its historic buildings can be both fun and educational for children.
- Jingshan Park: Located right next to the Forbidden City, this park offers a great view of the city and has spacious play areas for kids.
Day 03
798 Art District and Beijing Legoland Discovery Center
- 798 Art District: Filled with colorful and interesting art pieces, this area can inspire children's creativity.
- Beijing Legoland Discovery Center: Ideal for LEGO enthusiasts, this center offers various activities and LEGO building workshops.
Day 04
National Museum of China and Chaoyang Park
- National Museum of China: With special sections for children, this museum is a great place to learn about Chinese history and culture.
- Chaoyang Park: Featuring a large lake, playgrounds, and amusement parks, this park is a perfect relaxation spot for families.
Day 05
Mutianyu Great Wall and Nanshan Ski Village:
- Mutianyu Great Wall: This section of the Great Wall is safe and fun for children to explore.
- Nanshan Ski Village (in Winter): Open during winter, this ski resort offers opportunities for children to ski and sled.
Day 06
Beijing World Park and Solana Blue Harbor:
- Beijing World Park: Featuring miniatures of famous landmarks from around the world, this park provides a fun and educational experience for kids.
- Solana Blue Harbor: This complex includes various restaurants, shops, and play areas for children, offering a pleasant shopping and entertainment experience.
Day 07
Beijing Planetarium and Longtan Park
- Beijing Planetarium: With shows and interactive exhibits designed for children, this planetarium is a great place to learn about space and astronomy.
- Longtan Park: Enjoy a walk by the lake, rent a boat, and let children play in the park's playgrounds.
Best Shopping Spots in Beijing
Mid-Range Budget
Wangfujing Street
Mid-Range Budget
Silk Market (Xiushui Market)
Low Budget
Panjiayuan Antique Market
Luxury Budget
Sanlitun Taikoo Li
Mid-Range Budget
Qianmen Street
Low Budget
Nanluoguxiang
Low Budget
Yashow Market
Luxury Budget
The Place
Mid-Range Budget
Beijing APM
Top Nightlife Venues in Beijing
Beijingโs nightlife is vibrant and diverse, with bars, nightclubs, live music venues, and cozy cafes catering to every taste. Here are 10 places to enjoy Beijingโs nightlife:
- All
- Chaoyang
- Dongcheng
Mix Club
One of Beijingโs most famous nightclubs, Mix Club is known for its large dance floors and performances by renowned DJs. It is ideal for hip-hop and electronic music lovers.
VICS
Located near Mix Club, VICS is a popular nightclub known for its energetic atmosphere and diverse music genres. It often hosts performances by foreign DJs.
Dada Beijing
Situated in the Sanlitun area, Dada is famous for its underground music and alternative parties. You can enjoy various electronic music genres in a relaxed atmosphere.
Migas Mercado
A rooftop venue known for its stunning city views and live DJ performances. Itโs a perfect place to dance while enjoying tapas and cocktails.
The Bar at Migas
Known for its modern decor and extensive drink options, The Bar at Migas is ideal for spending time with friends in a relaxed atmosphere. Its cocktails are quite famous.
Modernista
One of Beijingโs popular live music venues, Modernista stands out with jazz and swing music. It hosts weekly live performances and dance nights.
Jianghu Bar
Combining traditional Chinese music with modern styles, Jianghu Bar is known for its live music performances and relaxed atmosphere. It is a small but cozy venue.
Q Bar
Situated on a rooftop, Q Bar offers beautiful city views. Known for its stylish decor and delicious cocktails, it is ideal for a relaxed evening.
Atmosphere Bar
Located on the 80th floor of the China World Summit Wing, Atmosphere Bar is one of the highest bars in the city. It is known for its stunning views and extensive drink menu.
Beijingโs nightlife caters to all tastes with its variety of music genres and atmospheres. Whether you want to dance, enjoy live music, or relax in a cozy environment, there is a place for you in the city.
How to Navigate Beijing: Transportation Tips
Beijing Transport Cards: How to Get and Best Options
The most commonly used transportation card in Beijing is the Beijing Transportation Smart Card (Yikatong). This card can be used on the metro, buses, and some taxis, and is also accepted in many shops and restaurants. Yikatong cards can be purchased from automatic machines or ticket counters at metro stations and can be easily reloaded. Cardholders can benefit from discounted fares when using public transportation.
Beijing Safety Overview: What You Need to Know
Beijing is generally considered a safe city for tourists, with a strong police presence and low violent crime rates. The government prioritizes public safety, leading to frequent patrols and a widespread surveillance system, which enhances the sense of security. Petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots like Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, so it’s wise to remain vigilant and keep an eye on personal belongings.
Tourists should be cautious when dealing with unofficial taxi services and ensure they use licensed cabs or ride-hailing apps to avoid scams. Cybersecurity can also be a concern; it’s recommended to use a VPN for secure internet browsing. Language barriers might pose a challenge, but most police officers in tourist areas can provide assistance in basic English. It’s advisable to have important information, such as your hotel’s address, written in Chinese.
Healthcare in Beijing: Comprehensive Guide for Visitors
Beijing, as a major global city, provides a blend of public and private healthcare services for both residents and visitors. Travelers should be informed about the city’s healthcare infrastructure, which includes international hospitals, emergency services, and considerations regarding air quality and water safety.
- International Hospitals:Beijing has several international hospitals that offer high-quality medical care, with English-speaking staff and modern facilities.
- Emergency Services:Emergency services in Beijing are reliable, with ambulances accessible via the 120 emergency hotline, though response times can be affected by traffic conditions.
- Health Insurance:Comprehensive health insurance is recommended for travelers, as treatment in international hospitals can be expensive without coverage.
- Payment:Most international hospitals accept credit cards, but local hospitals may require upfront cash payments for services.
- Clean Water:Tap water in Beijing is not safe for drinking, so it is advisable to use bottled or boiled water.
- Hygiene:While hygiene standards are generally high in international medical facilities, travelers should exercise caution in local areas, particularly when dining or using public restrooms.
- Air Pollution:Beijing often experiences significant air pollution, so travelers with respiratory issues should monitor air quality and consider wearing masks during high pollution periods.
- Pharmacies:Pharmacies are widely available and carry various medications, but prescription drugs may differ from international brands, so it’s best to bring necessary medications from home.
In summary, Beijing offers accessible and modern healthcare services for travelers, but itโs essential to take precautions such as securing health insurance and being mindful of environmental factors like air quality and water safety.
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