Forbidden City
Imperial palace complex, the world's largest
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About Beijing
Beijing is China's political, cultural, and historical heart, serving as the nation's capital for over 700 years. The city blends imperial grandeur with modern architecture, vibrant hutong alleyways with gleaming skyscrapers, and traditional Peking duck restaurants with world-class fine dining. With seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites within the municipality, Beijing offers an extraordinary depth of cultural experiences.
- Capital
- Beijing
- Largest city
- Beijing
- Population
- 21.5 million
- Languages
- Mandarin Chinese, Beijing dialect
- Currency
- Chinese Yuan
- Time zone
- UTC+8 (China Standard Time)
Explore Beijing by topic
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
Best places to visit in Beijing
The 5 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Great Wall (Mutianyu)
Best-preserved section, less crowded than Badaling
Temple of Heaven
15th-century imperial sacrifice temple complex
Summer Palace
Imperial garden with Kunming Lake
Tiananmen Square
World's largest public square
Recommended itineraries
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
5-Day Beijing Explorer
- Day 1Arrive in Beijing, explore city center
- Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Beijing
- Days 1-2Beijing city highlights
- Days 3-4Regional exploration
- Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Beijing
- Days 1-3Beijing comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12Southern attractions
- Days 13-14Return to Beijing, departure
Where to stay in Beijing
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Budget $30-50
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-range $100-150
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury $300+
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
The Peninsula Beijing
One of Beijing's most prestigious addresses, The Peninsula occupies a prime position on Goldfish Lane steps from Wangfujing and a short walk from the Forbidden City. The hotel blends imperial Chinese aesthetics with modern Peninsula luxury. Features a renowned spa, rooftop bar and Jing restaurant.
Check rates on Booking.comPark Hyatt Beijing
Occupying floors 63-85 of the China World Summit Wing tower, the Park Hyatt Beijing offers some of the highest views in the city. The sleek, contemporary design complements panoramic Beijing skyline vistas. The rooftop China Bar on the 65th floor is a signature attraction.
Check rates on Booking.comChina World Summit Wing
The tallest hotel in Beijing, China World Summit Wing crowns the China World Trade Center complex. Ultra-luxury accommodations with floor-to-ceiling windows, a Sky Pool on the 80th floor, and direct access to the China World Mall and office complex. A preferred address for international business travelers.
Check rates on Booking.comRosewood Beijing
A contemporary luxury sanctuary that draws inspiration from Beijing's courtyard house architecture. Each room is a spacious suite with residential-feel interiors. The hotel features Sense spa, an innovative Chinese restaurant Yàn and a stylish cocktail bar. The dedicated House Car service enhances the guest experience.
Check rates on Booking.comWhere to eat in Beijing
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Da Dong Roast Duck (Dongzhimen)
Da Dong is Beijing's most celebrated Peking duck restaurant, known for its 'super lean' roast duck that is lower in fat than traditional preparation. Chef Dong Zhenxiang's duck is roasted in a special oven to achieve crispy skin and tender meat. The contemporary dining room and theatrical service make it a memorable experience.
Quanjude Qianmen
Founded in 1864, Quanjude is the most historic Peking duck restaurant in the world and Beijing's most iconic culinary institution. The Qianmen flagship can seat over 2,000 diners across multiple floors. The original hanging-oven roasting technique has been maintained for 160 years. A pilgrimage for duck lovers.
Jing Yaa Tang
Jing Yaa Tang at The Opposite House is widely considered the most sophisticated Peking duck experience in Beijing. The sleek, design-forward restaurant serves classic Beijing dishes with refined presentations. The duck is served with homemade condiments and the service is impeccable. A perfect blend of tradition and modernity.
Maison Boulud
Chef Daniel Boulud's celebrated Beijing outpost occupies a stunning 1900s heritage mansion adjacent to Tiananmen Square. French haute cuisine is subtly infused with Chinese flavors and local ingredients. The wine list is exceptional. One of the top fine dining addresses in China.
Bianyifang (Qianmen)
Bianyifang is even older than Quanjude, tracing its roots to 1416 during the Ming dynasty. It uses the焖炉 (stuffy oven) roasting technique rather than the open-flame hanging oven, producing duck with uniquely tender meat and a different flavor profile. A must-visit for serious Peking duck connoisseurs.
Haidilao Hot Pot (Wangfujing)
China's most famous hot pot chain is renowned not just for its excellent broth and fresh ingredients but for its extraordinary customer service. While waiting, guests receive free snacks, manicures and shoe shines. The tableside noodle-pulling performance is a highlight. An essential Beijing dining experience.
Getting around Beijing
Beijing has one of the world's most comprehensive urban transit systems. The subway network covers 807km with 490 stations across 27 lines. Combined with buses, taxis, DiDi ride-hailing and the airport express, getting around is easy and affordable. Most visitors will rely primarily on the subway.
Budget breakdown
Daily spend by tier in CNY, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $15-25 | $60-90 | $200+ |
| Food (per day) | $8-12 | $25-40 | $60-100 |
| Transportation | $3-5 | $10-15 | $30-50 |
| Activities | $5-10 | $20-30 | $50-100 |
| Daily total | $30-50 | $100-150 | $300+ |
Best time to visit Beijing
Essential travel tips
- Get a Beijing Tong card for subway and bus travel
- Book Forbidden City tickets online in advance
- Learn a few Mandarin phrases
- Download WeChat and Alipay for cashless payments
Safety information
Use official taxis or DiDi app to avoid overcharging
Be cautious of 'tea house' or 'art student' scams near Tiananmen
Keep copies of passport and visa
Download offline maps as Google Maps may be slow
Use VPN for accessing foreign websites
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa to visit Beijing?
Most foreign nationals require a visa to enter China. Apply at your nearest Chinese embassy or consulate. Citizens of select countries may qualify for 144-hour or 72-hour transit visa-free stays. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
What currency is used in Beijing?
The currency in Beijing is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
What language is spoken in Beijing?
The main language(s) spoken in Beijing: Mandarin Chinese, Beijing dialect. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
What are the top attractions in Beijing?
The top attractions in Beijing include Forbidden City (Palace Museum), Great Wall at Mutianyu, Great Wall at Badaling, Temple of Heaven (Tiantan), and Summer Palace (Yiheyuan). Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.