If you’re heading to China, Beijing is likely your first stop and wow, is it a cultural overload in the best way possible.
It was actually the first city in China I visited about 10 years ago, and when I went back this past year, I couldn’t believe it took me this long to return.
Between ancient palaces, street food adventures, peaceful parks, and jaw-dropping sights like the Great Wall, it’s the kind of place that somehow feels stuck in time and racing toward the future all at once.
My last visit was a long layover (flying from Paris to Melbourne), and I managed to squeeze in just enough to know: I’ll be back (for a third visit).
Whether you’ve got a few days or a full week, here are the best things to do in Beijing from must-see landmarks to local experiences that give you a real feel for the city.
⏰ Short on time?
👉 Tours to try in Beijing
– Great Wall tour
– Forbidden City Walking Tour with Entry Tickets
– Street food tasting tour
👉 Recommended – Pre-book your airport transfer here
👉 Waking up to City & Temple Views in Beijing? Yes, Please.
($) Peking Youth Hostel
($$) Hotel Kapok Beijing
($$$) The Peninsula Beijing
Disclaimer: Please note that some of the links in this article may be affiliate links. This means that, at no extra cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click on or make a purchase through these links.
The Great Wall of China (of course!!)
This is the reason many people visit Beijing and rightfully so. The wall stretches thousands of kilometres, but several sections are easily accessible from the city:
- Mutianyu: Great for families and casual hikers, with a cable car, chair lift, and even a toboggan ride down.
- Jinshanling: Quieter and more scenic, with restored and wild parts perfect for photographers.
- Jiankou: The most rugged and challenging section. Only go if you’re experienced.
- Simatai & Gubei Water Town: Simatai is the only section open for night visits. Combine it with a scenic stop in Gubei Water Town for a quieter, romantic experience.
👉 I recommend booking a small group tour to the Great Wall for stress-free transport and a local guide.
Temple of Heaven
A gorgeous park complex where emperors once prayed for good harvests.
Don’t miss:
- The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests
- The Circular Mound Altar
- The Echo Wall
Come early and you’ll see locals practising tai chi, playing cards, or dancing.
Lama Temple
Also known as Yonghe Temple, this Tibetan Buddhist temple feels calm and spiritual even with the crowds. The giant 26-metre Maitreya Buddha, carved from a single sandalwood tree, is stunning.
The Forbidden City
This former imperial palace complex is massive nearly 1,000 buildings. Most visitors stick to the central route, but you’ll find quieter, more atmospheric corners if you wander off-track.
Pro tip: Visit Jingshan Park across the road afterwards for the best rooftop views of the entire complex. The Forbidden City is closed Mondays, so plan accordingly.
Summer Palace
When Beijing gets hot, this is where locals go to cool off. Rent a boat on Kunming Lake, walk the intricately painted Long Corridor, and hike up to the Tower of Buddhist Incense for epic views.
It’s a peaceful escape from the bustle of the city especially beautiful at sunset.
Wander the Hutongs (Especially Nanluoguxiang)
Beijing’s historic alleyways are one of the city’s most atmospheric experiences.
Nanluoguxiang is the most famous with narrow, buzzing street filled with:
- Boutique shops
- Traditional courtyard homes
- Local snacks like sugar-coated hawthorns and Wenyu cheese
You can even take a rickshaw tour through the surrounding hutongs to hear stories from local guides.
I’d recommend pre-booking the Great Wall Tour before you arrive in Beijing 👉 Great Wall tour
Jingshan Park
Right behind the Forbidden City, this hilltop park is one of the best spots for views across Beijing.
Climb to Wanchun Pavilion for panoramas of:
- The Forbidden City
- Drum & Bell Towers
- Beihai Park
It’s a short 10-minute walk up, bring water!
Beihai Park
A lovely lake-filled imperial garden perfect for a morning stroll or sunset boat ride. Highlights include:
- The White Pagoda (you can climb it!)
- Nine Dragon Wall
- Seasonal activities like lotus viewing or even ice skating in winter
798 Art District
Located in a repurposed electronics factory, 798 is Beijing’s hub for art and creativity. Expect:
- Street murals
- Design stores
- Quirky cafés
- Contemporary galleries like UCCA Centre for Contemporary Art
It’s most lively in the afternoon and early evening. Most galleries are closed on Mondays.
Drum & Bell Towers
These historic towers once told time for the entire city. Today, you can:
- Climb the Drum Tower to see a live drum performance
- Visit the Bell Tower to view the 60-ton bronze bell
They’re located right next to the hutongs and are super photogenic.
Eat Peking Duck (trust me, it's delicious)
You can’t leave Beijing without trying its signature dish: crispy duck, carved at the table, wrapped in pancakes with scallions and sauce.
Popular spots:
- Da Dong (fancy)
- Siji Minfu (reliable local favourite)
- Quanjude (famous chain)
👉 Book a Peking Duck dinner experience with a guide to skip the line and understand what makes it special.
Catch a Beijing Opera Performance
Beijing Opera mixes singing, acrobatics, and colourful costumes. Head to:
- Liyuan Theater
- Chang’an Grand Theatre
Even if you don’t understand the language, the visuals are worth it.
Sip Tea Like a Local
Beijing has a beautiful tea culture. You can:
- Sip jasmine tea at teahouses in Nanluoguxiang
- Join locals playing mahjong in parks
- Visit a tea shop for a tasting and to learn about blends
I’d recommend pre-booking the Great Wall Tour before you arrive in Beijing 👉 Great Wall tour
Day Trips from Beijing
See the Great Wall lit up at night, and enjoy the quiet canals of Gubei. Stay overnight to avoid crowds and enjoy sunrise from the wall.
Visit the final resting place of 13 Ming emperors. The Sacred Way is lined with stone animals and statues and very atmospheric. Dingling Tomb lets you descend into an underground palace.
Tips for Visiting Beijing
- VPNs are essential: Many Western apps are blocked. Install ExpressVPN or similar before your trip.
- Use Apple Maps over Google Maps: It’s more accurate in China.
- Install Alipay or WeChat Pay: Most locals don’t use cards or cash. Some now support foreign cards, but best to preload some funds if possible.
- Have your hotel name in Chinese: Especially if you’re taking taxis.
- Avoid Mondays for museums and palaces: Many are closed.
👉 Waking up to City & Temple Views in Beijing? Yes, Please.
($) Peking Youth Hostel
($$) Hotel Kapok Beijing
($$$) The Peninsula Beijing
Where did I Stayed in Beijing
Watch our hotel review staying at Guo Ji Yi Yuan Hotel in Beijing.
FAQ – Things to Know Before Visiting Beijing
Ideally 3–5 days to see the highlights, take a day trip, and enjoy the food scene.
Yes. Mutianyu is the most popular section for a day trip. Leave early to beat the crowds.
Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) are ideal for the weather and air quality.
Surprisingly yes and signage is often in English, and people are helpful. But learn a few basic Mandarin phrases.
Most travellers need a visa, but some layover travellers can use the 144-hour visa-free transit policy.
Absolutely. It’s one of China’s most iconic sights. Get there early and book in advance.
The metro is fast and affordable. Taxis are cheap but can be hard to hail without a local app.
Some major hotels and tourist spots accept them, but most places use mobile pay. Plan accordingly.
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