Beijing China
Heading to Beijing? Here’s your ultimate guide to exploring the capital of China! From historic landmarks to amazing foods to try—we’ve got you covered.
Great Wall Of China
We would often hear: there are few places in the world where you’ll get to check off as many items on your bucket list as in Beijing. They were right when they said that! My partner and I learned this on our trip to the city—or, shall we say, the heart of China.
Beijing is, very frankly, the capital of contrasts. It’s where you’ll see a mix of old and new. Traditional and modern. You’ll see history, but you’ll also LOVE the food. In a nutshell, there’s just going to be so much to do (and eat!). Not a boring day will go by 😉
If you’re ready to head to this destination, we got you! Keep reading for your all-in-one travel guide to Beijing, China.
How to Get to Beijing
The most common way would be flying into Beijing (or by train if you’re traveling within China). Most international flights will land at Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK), or the newer Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX) (you’ll love the futuristic design here). Flights from the U.S. or Europe can range from $600 to $1200—depending on the season. If you’re traveling from a neighbouring Asian country, you can expect the prices to be friendlier.
Beijing
How to Get Around Beijing
Getting around Beijing is no problem at all. The subway is the lifeline of the city. It covers pretty much everywhere you want to go, plus it’s affordable. So naturally, it was our go-to. You can also take the bus. The DiDi (China’s Uber) is another decent option.
Also, not to forget the bicycles! Bike-sharing apps (here’s how to use a bike-sharing app as a foreigner) mean you can explore the city on two wheels. And it’s an amazing experience!
Best Time to Visit Beijing
We visited Beijing for the first time in October and it turned out to be the perfect period! We had amazing days full of blue skies and sunshine. It wasn’t too hot or too cold. (And if you’re worried about the smog—there was barely any during October). It made exploring the city so much fun! I have heard visiting it in Spring is equally great, so you can consider that too.
Temples In China
Top 10 Things to Do in Beijing
I already mentioned that Beijing has a lot to do. And, of course, you can’t take it all in during a short trip. So I’ve put together some of my most recommended experiences in the city:
The Great Wall of China
No one wants to miss the Great Wall during their trip—but do want to miss the crowds. We traveled up to the Jinshanling Great Wall; this was around 154 kilometers northeast of Beijing. This is a well-preserved area. We especially loved the towers that give a sweeping view of the Wall as it snakes into the horizon.
Tiananmen Square
No doubt, you will find Tiananmen Square on virtually every must-see list for Beijing… but that’s for a reason! The square is the world’s largest public square and home to some of China’s darkest hours in history. There are plenty of historic buildings surrounding the square as well.
The Forbidden City
This is nestled in the very center of Beijing (next to the Tiananmen Square). It is a complex of palaces and qualifies as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can get an idea of the historic feel here from the fact that it was once the imperial palace for 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Temple of Heaven
This temple complex is where emperors once prayed for good harvests. You can expect some fantastic architecture here. The surrounding park is also famous for locals practicing tai chi.
Sanlitun
This is one of Beijing’s hippest areas. You can find the city’s most famous bar streets here as well as great dining and shopping options. If you’re looking for a peek into modern Beijing, Sanlitun makes for a good break from the city’s history! In fact, we’d like to call it the “new” Beijing. We especially loved people (read: hipster) watching here 😁
Beijing’s Hutongs
“Hutongs” are basically alleys with traditional Beijing courtyard residences. Walking around these, you can learn a lot about the culture of Beijing. We loved to walk around Nanluoguxiang; this a hutong area with galleries, shops, etc.
798 Art District
If you’re into art, you should definitely consider this old factory ground. Here, known as well as lesser-known artists display their works. You can also catch an exhibition or event here.
Mao Zedong Memorial Hall
This is the final resting place of Chairman Mao. His body has been embalmed and put on display in the Hall of Mourning (within this building). You will usually have to queue up to visit the mausoleum, but the lines move really quickly as you are not allowed to stand once you’re inside (it will take you around ten minutes inside the building). The good part? There’s no admission fee! Remember that you’re not allowed to bring any bags or cameras, though.
Lama Temple
This is a Tibetan Buddhist temple. If you visit, you will love the large statue carved from a single piece of sandalwood.
Beihai Park
This is one of China’s best-preserved (also oldest!) imperial gardens. You’ll find yourself surrounded by serenity here, especially thanks to the lake and iconic White Dagoba. We loved renting a boat to paddle on the lake.
Great Wall Of China
What to Eat in Beijing
My partner and I are BIG foodies. So, the food at the destination is something we never skimp on. Let’s just say, Beijing did not disappoint. Here’s what you want to try when you’re there:
- Peking duck—crispy skin, some tender meat + pancakes to wrap it all up (this was our absolute favorite!)
- Zhajiangmian—thick noodles with a soybean paste. This is the ultimate comfort food.
- Baozi—steamed buns with pork and veggies
- Jiaozi—Chinese dumplings
- Mongolian Hotpot—this will usually involve a large pot of boiling soup, in which you cook your own food. Any amount of meat, veggies, and bread are welcome
- Tudou Si—thinly shredded potatoes stir-fried with green peppers.
You must try the dumplings 🥟
Where to Stay in Beijing
And, last but definitely not the least, where to stay in Beijing. No trip is complete without having a comfy spot to stay.
This makes a strong case for the city’s most gorgeous hotel! It is suuuper glam on the outside while the interior is equal parts elegant. Plus, it’s just a short ride away from the Forbidden City.
This is a comfy and clean hotel in Beijing. There’s free parking, Wi-Fi, a desk… all those important amenities. We recommend this place because it’s a good compromise between budget and facilities.
This is set in a traditional Chinese courtyard. The traditional—and colorful—indoors are beautiful to stay in. Plus, it’s close to plenty of attractions (including the Yonghegong Temple).
What we love about the Happy Dragon Alley Hotel is that it’s located in a hutong. Its location is also a premium one in the heart of Beijing. And it’s not too expensive 😊
Great Wall Of China
