Beijing
Visit Beijing and discover history, food and modern city life all in one place.
About Beijing and why you should visit it
Beijing is a top travel destination in China, where imperial palaces meet wide boulevards and lively neighborhoods. The city was the seat of power for centuries and its scale shows in places like the Forbidden City, the largest ancient palace complex in the world, and Tiananmen Square, which hosts civic events and daily flag ceremonies.
Plan time to wander hutongs and markets, sample Peking duck, and ride the subway to see how local life unfolds. Popular things to do or visit include walking sections of the Great Wall near the city, exploring the Summer Palace gardens, and visiting the Temple of Heaven, where locals practice tai chi in the morning.
Accommodations in Beijing
Discover the best accommodations for Beijing and start planning your holiday.
Practical tips, sights and where to stay
Getting around is easy with an extensive subway system and ring roads that circle the city. Beijing has two major commercial airports, and Daxing is notable for its avant garde terminal. Expect crowds at peak times; mornings are often quieter at major sites, so hit the ground running early if you want good photos. An anecdote from a recent visit: on a cold morning I watched a grandfather teach his granddaughter calligraphy in a park by the Temple of Heaven, while nearby people flew kites of all shapes and sizes.
When choosing accommodation think about location and comfort. Look for options near central subway lines or inside a well preserved hutong for a more intimate stay. Search terms like best hotel in Beijing can help you compare amenities and reviews without locking you into one neighborhood. Bring comfortable shoes; you will walk a lot, from cobbled alleyways to palace courtyards.
Must see highlights and practical experiences:
- Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square for imperial history and large scale landmarks.
- Great Wall sections at Mutianyu or Badaling for accessible hikes and restored watchtowers.
- Hutong tours by foot or rickshaw to feel everyday life and courtyard homes.
- Summer Palace for lakeside pavilions and a long promenade ideal for an afternoon stroll.
- Temple of Heaven for architecture and morning rituals that connect past and present.
Beijing rewards those who mix planned visits with aimless exploration. Once in a blue moon you find a quiet courtyard cafe where time slows and the city's layers become clear. A light travel note: carry a small umbrella, since weather can change quickly during shoulder seasons.
Other cities around China
These popular destinations have a lot to offer for you next holiday or city break.
