Beijing Travel Guide | Best Attractions, Food, Hotels & Tips

Beijing, the capital of China, is a city where ancient history meets modern energy. From the Great Wall to the Forbidden City, vibrant food markets, and futuristic skyscrapers, Beijing offers a travel experience unlike anywhere else.

Whether you’re visiting for culture, food, photography, or adventure, this Beijing Travel Guide covers everything you need to plan the perfect trip.

The Magic of Beijing

Beijing attracts travelers from around the world thanks to its:

• World-famous historical sites
• Rich culture and traditional arts
• Iconic food scene
• Beautiful parks and scenic viewpoints
• Convenient transportation
• Modern shopping districts

This is a city where you can explore ancient temples in the morning and enjoy rooftop bars at night.

Top Attractions in Beijing

1. The Forbidden City

The world’s largest imperial palace, home to 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Don’t miss:

• Meridian Gate
• Hall of Supreme Harmony
• Imperial Garden

Tip: Buy tickets online in advance—they sell out quickly.

2. The Great Wall (Mutianyu or Badaling)

A must-see bucket-list landmark.

• Mutianyu: Less crowded, easier for families
• Badaling: Most famous section, well-restored
• Jinshanling: Best for hiking & photography
• Best time to visit: Early morning or sunset.

3. Tiananmen Square

The heart of Beijing and one of the largest public squares in the world. Nearby sites include:

• National Museum of China
• Chairman Mao Memorial Hall
• Monument to the People’s Heroes

4. Temple of Heaven

A masterpiece of Ming architecture and a UNESCO site.
Visit early to see locals practicing tai chi, dancing, and traditional exercises.

5. Summer Palace

A stunning lakeside royal garden with:

• Longevity Hill
• Kunming Lake
• Marble Boat
• Long Corridor (painted walkway)

Perfect for relaxation, photography, or a romantic afternoon.

6. Hutongs (Traditional Alleys)

Walk or take a rickshaw through Beijing’s historic neighborhoods.
Popular hutongs:

• Nanluoguxiang
• Yandai Xiejie
• Shichahai

Great for street food, cafés, and local culture.

7. Lama Temple (Yonghe Temple)

China’s most important Tibetan Buddhist temple.

The 26-meter sandalwood Buddha statue is breathtaking.

What to Eat in Beijing

Beijing is a paradise for food lovers. Make sure you try:

✔ Peking Duck

Crispy skin, tender meat.
Best restaurants: Quanjude, Da Dong, Siji Minfu.

✔ Zhajiangmian

Thick noodles with savory soybean paste.

✔ Lamb Skewers (Chuan’er)

Beijing’s favorite street barbecue.

✔ Beijing Hotpot

Warm, flavorful, and perfect in winter.

✔ Tofu Brain (Douzhi)

A traditional Beijing breakfast—try it if you love local flavors.

✔ Street Snacks

Find these at Wangfujing Night Market:

• Candied hawthorn
• Fried buns
• Grilled squid
• Jiaozi (dumplings)

Best Places to Shop in Beijing

Beijing combines traditional craft markets with high-end malls.

Silk Street Market

Bargaining is expected.

Wangfujing Street

Snacks, cosmetics, tea shops, bookstores.

Sanlitun Taikooli

Trendy boutiques, cafés, bars, nightlife.

Panjiayuan Antique Market

Vintage treasures, ceramics, calligraphy, and ethnic crafts.

Where to Stay in Beijing

Best Areas for Tourists

• Dongcheng: Close to Forbidden City, Tiananmen, hutongs
• Chaoyang: Modern, convenient, nightlife, CBD
• Haidian: Near Summer Palace & universities
• Xicheng: Traditional Beijing vibe

Hotel Types

• Luxury: The Peninsula, Rosewood, Aman Summer Palace
• Mid-range: Novotel Peace Hotel, NUO Hotel
• Budget: Hutong boutique guesthouses

How to Get Around

Beijing has excellent transportation.

Subway

Fast, affordable, easy to navigate.

Taxi & Ride-hailing

Use apps like Didi.

Avoid rush-hour traffic if possible.

Biking

Bike-sharing apps make exploring fun and eco-friendly.

Walking

Many attractions are within walkable districts.

Best Time to Visit Beijing

Spring (April–May)

Pleasant weather, blooming flowers.

Autumn (September–October)

Cool temperatures, clear skies—best season for outdoor activities.

Winter (December–February)

Cold but great for snow scenery and fewer crowds.

Summer (June–August)

Hot & humid but lively with festivals.

Useful Travel Tips

• Buy Forbidden City tickets online in advance
• Prepare for security checks at major attractions
• Carry some cash—small shops may not accept cards
• Air quality can fluctuate; check AQI before long outdoor trips
• Metro stations can get crowded—avoid peak hours
• Learn basic Chinese phrases or use a translation app

Beijing is a city full of history, culture, food, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're exploring the Great Wall, tasting authentic Peking Duck, wandering ancient hutongs, or diving into modern nightlife, Beijing offers something for every traveler.

FAQ

1. Is Beijing a good place to travel for first-time visitors?

Yes. It’s safe, easy to navigate, and full of iconic cultural sites.

2. How many days do you need in Beijing?

3–5 days is ideal to visit major attractions like the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Summer Palace.

3. When is the best time to visit Beijing?

Autumn (September–October) offers the best weather and views.

4. Is it easy to get around in Beijing?

Very easy. The subway system is fast and affordable, and taxis are widely available.

5. What food is Beijing famous for?

Peking Duck, zhajiangmian, lamb skewers, and Beijing-style hotpot.