Beijing, China: Travel Guide
A visit to Beijing is a staple on every China itinerary. The capital is brimming with ancient history and modern architecture with the futuristic flare China is known for. Seamlessly blending the old with the new. It was our second time visiting Beijing, so we searched for unusual things to do in Beijing. In this ultimate city guide, not only do we bring you the top attractions in Beijing, but help you venture off the beaten path. Whether it’s your first time or you are returning for seconds, there are plenty of exciting places to visit in Beijing.
Top Beijing Attractions:
Great Wall of China
Constructed between the 3rd century BC and the 17th century AD as protection against Mongol invasions, the Great Wall of China spans over 13,171 miles. Visiting one of the Seven Wonders of the World can be done in sections varying in difficulty, distance from Beijing, and popularity. You could even camp overnight!
The most popular sections are Mutianyu, Jiankou, and Badaling. Mutianyu and Jiankou are less crowded, while Badaling is the closest to Beijing and a popular favorite even among world leaders such as Barack Obama and Queen Elizabeth II.
Pro Tip: Combine the Simatai section, one of the most scenic and authentic parts of the wall, with a visit to Gubei Water Town, an idyllic day trip from Beijing we recommend below.
Tiananmen Square
Called the “Gate of Heavenly Peace,” Tiananmen Square carries a complex and somber history, most notably the tragic events of 1989. Despite its past, the square remains a focal point where the daily changing of the guard and the flag-raising ceremony take place. It also houses the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong. Access to the square, which leads directly into the Forbidden City, requires booking an appointment in advance—tickets are known to sell out as soon as they become available. On the day of your visit, arrive early, passport in hand, to secure a spot at the front of the line and navigate the intense security checks. Align you visit with the National Museum of China, located on the east side of the square. With over 1 million artifacts, it offers a deep dive into Chinese history.
The Forbidden City
Through the magnificent Meridian Gate, you enter the world’s largest palace complex and a UNESCO World Heritage Site: The Forbidden City. For over 600 years, it was the exclusive domain of China’s emperors and their court, sealed off from the outside world until it was transformed into a museum in 1925, just a year after the last emperor was evicted. The city is rich in feng shui principles, with the number nine—considered lucky—integrated into its design and a red and yellow color scheme symbolizing good fortune and power. Don’t miss the Inner Court, Imperial Gardens, and the treasures of the Palace Museum.
For a unique perspective, head to Scenery Hill in Jingshan Park, where you can admire the palace’s yellow-glazed roofs and south-north orientation. The Forbidden City’s north exit also leads to Beihai Park, a tranquil imperial garden dating back to the 12th century, famous for its giant white pagoda. Rent a boat and go for a paddle around the lake.
Visiting Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City is a full-day affair, and the growing crowds can be exhausting. Set aside an entire day for this leg of your Beijing itinerary, and consider a peaceful dinner afterward—more on that later.
Qianmen Street
Located just south of Tiananmen Square, Qianmen Street is one of Beijing’s most famous historic shopping streets. Though many buildings are reconstructed, the street still exudes authenticity in places. Silk boutiques, herbal medicine shops, tea houses, and restaurants recall its days as a bustling commercial hub during the Ming and Qing Dynasties—despite the presence of some popular foreign brands. Qianmen Street is ideal for an evening stroll when it lights up, but keep in mind that it can get crowded, as it’s one of the top places to visit in Beijing.
Hutongs
Beijing’s hutongs – narrow alleyways lined with traditional courtyard houses – offer a glimpse into the city’s past. Unfortunately, many of these old residential streets have been demolished or reconstructed for tourism. But some preserved hutongs that date back to the Ming Dynasty, like Mao’er Hutong, still exist. The most famous ones are located around Qianmen Street and the Forbidden City, in particular, Nanluoguxiang, filled with cafes and boutiques offering a mix of culture, history, and vogue. Wandering through these lanes is the best thing to do in Beijing to experience its soul, but remember to be respectful as many are private residences.
Temple of Heaven
A masterpiece of architecture and landscape design, the Temple of Heaven was once accessible only to emperors, the "Sons of Heaven," who came to pray for good harvests and offer sacrifices. Today, this UNESCO-listed complex is open to all, and the surrounding park is a popular spot for locals who gather to practice tai chi and line dance. Be sure to test the Echo Wall, where whispers can travel remarkable distances.
Lama Temple
Built during the Qing Dynasty, this golden-roofed residence was originally home to a prince until he rose to the throne, after which it was converted into a lamasery for Tibetan monks and became known as the Lama Temple. Today, it remains an active place of worship and is the most revered Tibetan Buddhist temple outside Tibet. While the kaleidoscopic colors draw visitors in, the true showstopper is the 59-foot Buddhist statue carved from a single piece of sandalwood—the largest of its kind in the world.
Alternative Beijing Attractions
Panjiayuan Antique Market
Even if you're tight on luggage space, a visit to the Panjiayuan Antique Market is well worth your time. As the largest flea market in Beijing, it’s a treasure trove of antiques and quirky collectibles, making it a paradise for unique finds—whether you’re hunting for souvenirs, adding to your home collection, or simply snapping photos. While the market is open throughout the week, it’s best to visit on weekends when the stalls are full.
Architecture
Beijing has lots in store for architecture enthusiasts. Start with the “Bird’s Nest” Olympic Stadium and “Water Cube” Aquatics Center, both famous Beijing landmarks and legacies of the 2008 Olympics, surrounded by lovely park grounds.
Wangjing Soho, a captivating design by Zaha Hadid, showcases her signature curves in a trio of retail and office complexes. Referred to as "mountain peaks", the buildings resemble a cluster of beehives to us, especially noticeable when standing in the center. Its older sister, Galaxy Soho, follows a similar concept but even in height. Another masterpiece by Zaha Hadid Architects is Leeza Soho, which features the world’s tallest atrium, an incredible sight when permeated by sunlight.
Beijing’s skyline is unmistakably marked by the “Big Pants,” the colloquial nickname for the three-dimensional CCTV building. Though controversial, it’s hard to deny its striking appearance, particularly at night when viewed from a terrace in the CBD with a drink in hand.
The National Center for Performing Arts, or the “giant egg”, is a glass dome surrounded by water contrasting with Beijing’s historic center. While admiring the egg from the outside is captivating, the experience is best paired with a performance of the Peking Opera – a UNESCO-recognized show that combines singing, dancing, and martial arts.
For fellow fans of libraries and bookshops, we recommend visiting the recently opened Beijing City Library in Tongzhou District. This architectural gem seamlessly integrates the natural landscape with its terraced steps resembling hillsides, topped by a roof inspired by ginkgo trees that filter the sunlight. Another must-see is Zhongshuge Bookshop, a Chinese chain we previously explored in Hong Kong. The Beijing location also features mirrored ceilings, with an interior design that draws on local culture, including moon gates, privacy screens, and a bamboo forest.
Art
An afternoon at Beijing’s Red Brick Art Museum built entirely of red bricks as the name suggests, will guarantee inspiration to strike. A playground for art and architecture fans, this off-the-beaten-path Beijing attraction hosts the city’s best exhibitions, features peaceful gardens thanks to bricks’ noise isolation, and has a café on its premises, inviting you to linger a little longer.
The 798 Art District is a must-visit on any Beijing itinerary. Once a cluster of military factories, it has transformed into the city’s trendiest art hub and a symbol of modern creativity. With hundreds of studios, street art, installations, and hip dining spots, it’s easy to lose track of time amidst the thought-provoking works and a whirlwind of photo opportunities.
For those looking to blend art with shopping, Parkview Green Mall features over 500 impressive art installations. Afterward, unwind at the nearby Ritan Park, a serene imperial garden dating back to the Ming Dynasty, where you can relax by the willow-lined pond, surrounded by Beijing’s towering skyscrapers.
Day Trips from Beijing
Summer Palace
Though the UNESCO-listed Summer Palace is located only 35 minutes away from Beijing, exploring its vast grounds can easily take a good portion of your day, making it an ideal half day trip from Beijing. Once a lakeside retreat for emperors, it became the residence of the former Qing Emperor in 1912 and was transformed into a public park in 1924. To round off your visit, take a boat ride on Kunming Lake and enjoy the views of Longevity Hill from the water.
Gubei Water Town
Nestled among scenic mountains just two hours from Beijing, Gubei Water Town is a village designed after Chinese canal towns, often called the “Oriental Venice”. With its canals, hot springs, and charming streets, it’s the ideal place to soak in the natural beauty of the region. The Simatai section of the Great Wall is also nearby offering bucket list hikes. Despite the frequent use of “ancient” in its name, Gubei was actually constructed in 2014 to revive Chinese cultural heritage.
Food in Beijing
When in Beijing, feasting on roast duck is a must. Known as Peking duck, they grace the windows of nearly every restaurant. To the table, the duck arrives carved and accompanied by thinly sliced cucumber, spring onion, sweet sauce, and paper-thin crepes. Peal a crepe, apply a smear of sauce, top it with duck and toppings, and pop it in your mouth. A delicious ritual! While you'll find roast duck restaurants everywhere, Siji Minfu comes highly recommended.
During our travels in China, we discovered the many varieties of hotpot. Beijing’s specialty features lamb and is often called Mongolian Hot Pot since its origins date back to the arrival of Kublai Khan as the legend has it. The broth is milder than Chongqing’s fiery version, but if you are sensitive to spice, opt for the non-spicy version or the half-and-half pot. Head to one of the best hot pot restaurant chains Dong Lai Shun located on Wangfujing Street, known for great food and shopping.
Tucked away in a tranquil Baochao hutong courtyard, you’ll find Mr. Shi’s Dumplings. The small venue is accommodating to foreign travelers but not in a touristy way and offers the perfect hearty dishes your soul desires after a full day of exploring busy Beijing. Boiled jiaozi and fried guotie will do the trick!