Beijing Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Beijing with this helpful guide, including must-visit attractions, hiking and biking routes, food recommendations, and local customs and culture.


Introduction to Beijing

Beijing, the capital city of China, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis with a history that dates back over 3,000 years. With its mix of modern and traditional aspects, Beijing is a city that offers something for everyone. From ancient temples and historic sites to bustling shopping districts and world-class museums, there is no shortage of attractions to explore in this fascinating city.

List of Places to Visit in Beijing

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Beijing is home to some of the world’s most historically significant sites, including the Forbidden City, a sprawling palace complex that served as the seat of power for Chinese emperors for centuries. Other must-visit cultural attractions include:

  • The Temple of Heaven, a stunningly beautiful temple complex that served as a site for imperial worship and ceremonies.

  • The Summer Palace, a sprawling complex of gardens and palaces that served as a retreat for Chinese emperors.

  • The Great Wall of China, one of the world’s most iconic landmarks.

  • The National Museum of China, which houses a vast collection of Chinese artifacts and exhibits on the country’s history.

  • The Beijing Capital Museum, which is known for its collection of artifacts related to the history of Beijing and the surrounding areas.

Natural Attractions of Beijing: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Beijing is also home to some stunning natural attractions that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. These include:

  • The Fragrant Hills, a beautiful mountain range that is especially popular during the autumn months, when the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and gold.

  • The Temple of the Azure Clouds, which is located in the stunningly beautiful Xiangshan Park.

  • The Yuanmingyuan Park, which features lakes, streams, and scenic landscapes.

  • The Ming Tombs, a collection of mausoleums that are nestled amidst rolling hills and valleys.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Beijing

Beijing is a paradise for hiking and biking enthusiasts, with opportunities for outdoor exploration available throughout the city and surrounding areas. Some popular routes include:

  • The Great Wall at Mutianyu, which is a less crowded section of the world-famous wall that is known for its stunning views and excellent hiking trails.

  • The Houhai Lake area, which features scenic lake views and charming historic buildings.

  • The Olympic Forest Park, which is a vast park that is perfect for cycling, hiking, and exploring the outdoors.

Best Things to Do in Beijing: Activities and Tours

In addition to the city’s many museums and attractions, Beijing also offers plenty of other activities and tours to enjoy. Some popular options include:

  • A rickshaw tour of the city’s Hutongs, which are traditional neighborhoods that are often referred to as Beijing’s “old town.”

  • A visit to the 798 Art District, a trendy neighborhood that is home to many art galleries and trendy restaurants.

  • A trip to the Beijing Zoo, where you can see giant pandas and other exotic animals.

  • A Chinese calligraphy or cooking class, where you can learn about traditional Chinese art forms and food culture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Beijing

If you’re planning on spending a week in Beijing, there are plenty of different activities and sights to fill up your itinerary. Here’s a sample week-long itinerary to get you started:

Day Activities
1 Visit the Forbidden City and explore the surrounding neighborhoods.
2 Hike the Great Wall at Mutianyu and enjoy the stunning mountain views.
3 Spend the day exploring the Temple of Heaven and surrounding parklands.
4 Take a day trip to the Summer Palace and enjoy the beautiful gardens and lakes.
5 Visit the National Museum of China and the Beijing Capital Museum.
6 Tour the Hutongs via rickshaw and enjoy traditional Chinese snacks.
7 Visit the Fragrant Hills or the Ming Tombs for a breathtaking natural experience.

Food and Drink Scene of Beijing

Must-Try Dishes

Beijing is known for its flavorful and unique culinary scene, which features a mix of traditional Chinese dishes and influences from surrounding regions. Some dishes to try while in Beijing include:

  • Peking Duck, a roasted duck dish that is sliced and served with pancakes and dipping sauce.

  • Zhajiangmian, a noodle dish that is served with soybean paste and shredded vegetables.

  • Jianbing, a savory crepe that is typically filled with eggs and veggies.

  • Baozi, a steamed bun that is typically filled with meat or vegetables.

  • Hotpot, a type of Chinese fondue that features a communal pot of broth in which diners cook their own meat and vegetables.

Local Beverages

When it comes to drinks in Beijing, there are several options to try:

  • Chinese tea, which is served in a variety of flavors and strengths.

  • Baijiu, a type of Chinese liquor that is made from grain and typically has a high alcohol content.

  • Yanjing Beer, which is a local beer that is popular throughout Beijing.

Where to Stay in Beijing: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Beijing has a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from luxurious hotels to affordable hostels and guesthouses. Some popular options include:

  • The Four Seasons Hotel, which is a luxurious hotel located in central Beijing that features top-notch amenities and service.

  • The Heyuan Courtyard Hotel, which is a charming guesthouse located in the city’s Hutongs.

  • The Peking International Youth Hostel, which is an affordable hostel that is popular with backpackers and budget travelers.

What to Buy in Beijing: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When it comes to souvenirs in Beijing, there are many options available. Some popular items to bring home include:

  • Hand-painted ceramics and tea sets.

  • Silk clothing and accessories.

  • Traditional Chinese art, such as calligraphy scrolls and paintings.

  • Jade jewelry and figurines.

Local Culture and Customs of Beijing

Beijing has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors should take care to observe local customs and traditions during their stay. Some important customs to be aware of include:

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, such as temples and monasteries.

  • Remove shoes before entering someone’s home, and avoid pointing your feet towards others.

  • Use chopsticks when eating, and avoid placing them vertically in your food.

Best Time to Visit Beijing

The best time to visit Beijing is between September and November, when the weather is mild and the autumn foliage is at its peak. Spring, between March and May, is also considered a good time to visit, as the weather is generally pleasant and the city’s parks and gardens are in bloom.

Do’s and Don’ts of Beijing

Do:

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious or historic sites.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try local cuisine and drinks.
  • Use public transportation, such as the subway or buses, to get around the city.

Don’t:

  • Touch or remove objects from historic sites.
  • Refuse offers of hospitality, such as tea or snacks.
  • Disrespect local customs or traditions, such as by haggling excessively with street vendors.
  • Overstay your visa or break local laws.

Safety and Health

Safety in Beijing

Beijing is a relatively safe city for tourists, but visitors should take the same precautions they would in any major city. This includes keeping valuables secured, avoiding traveling alone at night, and staying in well-lit areas. Tourists should also be aware of the possibility of scams, particularly in crowded tourist areas.

Health in Beijing

It is recommended that visitors to Beijing consult their doctor or a travel health clinic prior to their trip to receive any necessary vaccinations or other preventative measures. Visitors should also be aware of air pollution, which can be particularly bad during certain seasons.

Getting to Beijing: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Beijing

Beijing is served by two major airports: Beijing Capital International Airport and Beijing Daxing International Airport. Both airports offer a variety of domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Beijing

Beijing is well connected by bus to other major cities in China, with several long-distance bus stations located throughout the city.

Other Options

Beijing is also connected to other major cities in China via high-speed train, and travelers can book tickets easily online or at the train station.

How to Get Around in Beijing

Beijing is a large city, but it is relatively easy to get around thanks to its extensive public transportation network. The city’s subway system is fast and efficient, with a variety of different lines that serve different neighborhoods and attractions. Buses and taxis are also widely available.

Where to Go Next from Beijing: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Beijing is surrounded by many interesting destinations that are worth exploring. Some options include:

  • The Great Wall at Badaling, a popular section of the wall that is located just outside of Beijing.

  • The city of Tianjin, which is located about 1.5 hours by train from Beijing and features a charming historic district and popular food market.

  • The city of Chengde, which is located about 3 hours by train from Beijing and features the stunning Chengde Mountain Resort.

Conclusion

Beijing is a city that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient temples and palaces, hiking the Great Wall, or experiencing the city’s vibrant food and drink scene, Beijing is a destination that offers something for everyone. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-equipped to plan your next trip to this fascinating city.

Interior of Beijing Daxing International Airport Interior of Beijing Daxing International Airport Beijing West Railway Station Beijing West Railway Station Boarding in Beijing South Railway Station Boarding in Beijing South Railway Station Beijing subway map Beijing subway map Subway station in Beijing Subway station in Beijing Dockless rideshare bicycles are common in downtown Beijing Dockless rideshare bicycles are common in downtown Beijing A bike-sharing rack in Dongsi, near the city center A bike-sharing rack in Dongsi, near the city center Route 103 is one of the 20 trolleybus routes in Beijing Route 103 is one of the 20 trolleybus routes in Beijing Double-decker routes used Double-decker routes used "特" prefix before 2021, but are dissolved into regular route ranges. An electric taxi in Beijing An electric taxi in Beijing Hyundai Elantra taxi with Hyundai Elantra taxi with "京B" prefix These drivers can scam tourists big time if a fare hasn't been negotiated beforehand These drivers can scam tourists big time if a fare hasn't been negotiated beforehand BCR Huairou–Miyun Line train leaving Yanqihu railway station in Huairou BCR Huairou–Miyun Line train leaving Yanqihu railway station in Huairou Line S2 train changing direction at Qinglongqiao railway station, which was built by Jeme Tien-yow in 1909 Line S2 train changing direction at Qinglongqiao railway station, which was built by Jeme Tien-yow in 1909 Example of tapping out with ''Yikatong'' when getting off a bus in Beijing Example of tapping out with ''Yikatong'' when getting off a bus in Beijing Inside the Forbidden City Inside the Forbidden City Great Wall of China at Badaling Great Wall of China at Badaling Tsinghua University, Beijing, China. Founded in 1911 Tsinghua University, Beijing, China. Founded in 1911 Illuminated version of the ''chuan'' character outside a shop selling it, found all over the city Illuminated version of the ''chuan'' character outside a shop selling it, found all over the city Terminus of route 877 on the north of Deshengmen arrow tower Terminus of route 877 on the north of Deshengmen arrow tower Heavy air pollution has resulted in widespread smog. These photographs, taken in August 2005, show the variations in Beijing's air quality. Heavy air pollution has resulted in widespread smog. These photographs, taken in August 2005, show the variations in Beijing's air quality.


    Chaoyang
    Chongwen
    Fengtai
    Forbidden City
    Gulou
    Haidian
    Huairou
    Mentougou
    Shijingshan
    Tongzhou
    Yanqing