Things To Do
in Beijing
Beijing, the capital of China, is a vibrant metropolis blending ancient history with modern development. From the grandeur of the Forbidden City to the skyline of the Central Business District, the city offers a diverse urban tapestry. You can immerse yourself in traditional hutongs, sample street food, or scale iconic sections of the Great Wall just outside the city.
Beijing’s rich cultural heritage and dynamic city life make it a must-visit destination for travelers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey with a smooth arrival at Beijing Capital International Airport, where vibrant signage and courteous staff set the tone. Transfer to your centrally located hotel to drop off luggage and freshen up before exploring. Wander through the vast courtyards of the Forbidden City, marveling at crimson walls and shimmering roof tiles that whisper imperial secrets.
Pause for a sumptuous Peking duck lunch at a nearby restaurant, letting crispy skin and tender meat melt on your tongue. Stroll through Jingshan Park, ascending its emerald hilltop pavilion for sweeping panoramas of the palace complex laid out below. Immerse yourself in the imperial garden’s tranquility, admiring ancient pavilions framed by blossoming trees.
As dusk falls, head to Houhai, the historic lake district alive with lantern-lit bars and traditional courtyard houses. Paddle a wooden boat across the calm water or meander along narrow alleys lined with cozy tea houses. Let melodies of live music drift through the night as you unwind beside flickering reflections on the lake’s surface.
Rise before dawn to explore the Temple of Heaven, watching local tai chi practitioners move gracefully beneath soaring archways. Marvel at the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, its azure tiles glimmering in morning light. Let the serene gardens and winding corridors guide you through centuries of imperial ritual.
Refuel with a dim sum feast in a teahouse brimming with fragrant steam and clinking tea cups. Dive into bargain hunting at the Silk Market, weaving through bustling stalls draped in colorful silks, accessories, and souvenirs. Hone your haggling skills as vendors display embroidered treasures and handcrafted trinkets.
Venturing to Sanlitun, the city’s vibrant nightlife hub, discover neon-lit streets lined with bustling bars and international eateries. Sip craft cocktails in a rooftop lounge while the urban skyline shimmers below. Immerse yourself in the cosmopolitan pulse of Beijing after dark.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Bowl of noodles | $2-5 |
| 🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee at café | $3-6 |
| 🚖Taxi start (first 3 km) | $2 |
| 🎟️Museum entry fee | $5-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural sites
- Efficient public transportation
- Diverse street food and dining scene
- Modern amenities alongside ancient landmarks
- Air pollution can be heavy
- Crowded popular attractions
- Language barrier outside tourist areas
- Traffic congestion during rush hours
- "你好 (Nǐ hǎo)" - Hello
- "谢谢 (Xièxie)" - Thank you
- "多少钱？(Duōshǎo qián?)" - How much does this cost?
- "厕所在哪里？(Cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ?)" - Where is the restroom?
- "再见 (Zàijiàn)" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Beijing
Visit one of these nice places.
Less crowded section with restored watchtowers and cable car access—stunning sunrise and sunset shots.
Symmetrical courtyards and golden roofs framed by red walls make for iconic palace images.
Blue-tiled Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests set among ginkgo trees is particularly photogenic in autumn.
Contemporary galleries, colorful murals, and industrial architecture create an urban art backdrop.
Food in Beijing
Beijing Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy-skinned roast duck served with thin pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce—try it at Quanjude or Dadong.
Must-Try!
Savory breakfast crepe filled with egg, scallions, crispy wonton strips, and chili sauce; ubiquitous from morning street stalls.
Noodles topped with a rich soybean and pork sauce; available at small noodle shops across the city.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Famous for exotic skewers like scorpions and starfish as well as dumplings and fried dough sticks.
Open late with grilled seafood, lamb skewers, stinky tofu, and sweet soups.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A slight nod or handshake is sufficient—few expect Western-style hugs or kisses.
Always join the end of the line; pushing ahead is frowned upon.
Present and receive small items with both hands; avoid giving clocks or sharp objects as gifts.
Safety
Tipping in Beijing
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in mainland China; service charges may be included in hotel and tour bills.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) dominate—even street vendors accept them; carry some cash for remote areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming cherry blossoms—pack layers for cool mornings and evenings.
Hot and humid with occasional thunderstorms—stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and expect occasional haze.
Crisp air, clear skies, and colorful foliage—ideal weather for sightseeing and outdoor hikes.
Cold and dry with temperatures often below freezing—bring a heavy coat, gloves, and a scarf.
Beijing at Night
Hiking in Beijing
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Well–restored section with fewer crowds and cable car access.
Offers rugged terrain and striking mountain vistas for the more adventurous hiker.
Lush trails and a scenic summit pavilion, especially beautiful in autumn foliage.
Airports
How to reach Beijing by plane.
Main international gateway with three terminals; connected to the city by Airport Express line and taxis.
Modern hub south of the city; serves many international and domestic routes; high-speed rail link under construction.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Make up over 90% of the population, with deep cultural roots in the region.
Concentrated in Niujie, known for halal eateries and historic mosques.
Large communities from Korea, Japan, Europe, and North America reside in embassy and business districts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
China’s national sport; public parks host friendly matches almost daily.
Indoor courts are widespread; casual and competitive play is very popular.
Street courts in public parks see pickup games from morning until night.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Beijing.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Buddhist temples and veggie restaurants serve mock meats and vegetable dumplings—look for “su” (素) on menus.
Islamic restaurants in Niujie offer halal lamb kebabs, hand-pulled noodles, and naan bread.