Beijing is the vibrant capital of China, where ancient history meets modernity. Beijing’s unmatched tapestry of experiences is one-of-a-kind. This guide to Beijing in 2025 highlights its iconic landmarks and modern contemporary hotspots, making sure there is something for everyone. From the timeless beauty of the Great Wall and Forbidden City to bustling art districts and hutongs emerging, this article will take you through the attractions you should not miss. We have everything from history-enthusiastic, cultural, or food lovers twigging to dive into Beijign’s mouth-melting cuisine. So plan on your next visit and get ready to discover the dynamic side of this city.
What Are the Must-See Things to Do in Beijing?
What Are the Must-See Things to Do in Beijing
Visit The Forbidden City
Anyone visiting Beijing must check out the Forbidden City. This enormous building complex showcases the beautiful, lavish architecture and courtyards of China and its intricate history. You should spend a few hours there and lose yourself in its beauty. Don’t forget that it is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
A Stroll Down The Great Wall
No one would want to leave Beijing without visiting the Great Wall of China, and its Mutianyu section surely does not disappoint. You will be greeted with fewer tourists and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Whether you hike, ride a cable car, or slide down on a toboggan, the experience will overwhelm you.
Visit The Summer Palace
The Summer Palace is a breathtaking getaway of lakes, gardens, and pavilions. These spots are great for escaping the bustle of the city while enjoying a walk next to Longevity Hill or going on a calm boat ride across Kunming Lake.
Check Out The Hutongs
It’s no secret that the traditional alleyways or ‘hutongs’ are rich in culture. These can be discovered by wandering around, and you will stumble upon historic buildings, small cafes, and shops. An easy way to explore them is by renting a bike or taking a rickshaw tour.
Enjoy The Food Scene In Beijing
Beijing has its style of local foods, such as Peking duck, savory pancakes, and various dumplings. Explore Wangfujing and Ghost Street’s many cafes and restaurants to appreciate the local food culture.
Appreciate The Sight At The Temple Of Heaven
The Temple of Heaven is a well-known historical landmark that is very important to the culture and spirit of the people. Parks surround it, and it is a popular spot for people to meet for tai chi or social activities.
Exploring the Historic Forbidden City
The heart of Beijing houses The Forbidden City, which happens to be an architectural masterpiece from the imperial era of China. This site is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and served as the imperial palace of 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Encompassing almost 180 acres, the complex includes more than 980 surviving structures with over 8,700 rooms, all built in classical Chinese palace style. Strict Fend Shui principles are utilized for the site’s layout; the Meridian Gate is the main entrance, and the relative positions of different structures symbolize harmony within nature and supremacy mystically.
Non-Chinese visitors must book a ticket to visit The Forbidden City, which can be booked in advance via the Internet. The tickets usually cost 60 to 80 RMB, depending on the season. Opening hours during peak season are from 8:30 am to 5 pm; in the off-season, it is usually 4:30 pm. Peak times must be avoided during the day as well. During your tour, wearing comfortable shoes and bringing water is advisable. Experts suggest spending at least two to three hours to grasp the exquisiteness of this place.
A Journey Along the Great Wall of China
In its grandeur, the Great Wall of China offers many sections for people to visit. The most preserved portions, for example, include Badaling, Mutianyu, and Jinshanling. Each offers different experiences, ranging from easy to hard.
- Badaling has restored pathways and handrails and even offers a cable car, making it easy for families and first-time visitors to navigate.
- Distance from Beijing: ~70 km (44 miles)
- Ticket Price: 40 RMB (low season), 45 RMB (peak season)
- Cable Car: ~140 RMB round trip
- Recommended Time: 2 hours
- The wide variety of views available makes Mutianyu a favorite. It is less crowded than other places and beautiful to visit, especially for people wanting an easier trek through nature.
- Distance from Beijing: ~73 km (45 miles)
- Ticket Price: 40 RMB (low season), 60 RMB (peak season)
- Cable Car/Chairlift: 120 RMB round trip
- Toboggan Ride : 100 RMB
- Recommended Time: 2-3 hours
- Photographers with a knack for hiking will love Jinshanling. Its restored and untouched regions offer stunning views and historical richness.
- Distance from Beijing: ~125 km (78 miles)
- Ticket Price: 65 RMB
- Cable Car: ~70 RMB one way
- Recommended Time : 3-5 hours
Best Times to Visit the Great Wall
The best times to visit the place are in spring (April to May) and autumn (September to November). The scenery is beautiful when the weather is romantic but not too hard. Early or late afternoons are highly recommended for enjoying the wall and avoiding large crowds. If you like photography, golden hour is the best time to set up.
Tips for Your Trip
- Dress Comfortably: Wear sturdy walking shoes and layered clothing to adapt to changing temperatures.
- Bring Essentials: Pack water, sunscreen, and snacks.
- Check Accessibility: Pre-confirm if cable cars or special access facilities are operational, especially during winter.
- Avoid Peak Times: Weekends and public holidays tend to draw large crowds.
The brilliant selection of the correct section and planning ensure a visit to the Great Wall filled with wonder and inspiration.
Reliving History at Tiananmen Square
Tiananmen Square actively participates in the political life of China and is regarded as the second most visited place in China after the Great Wall. 109 acres (440,000 square meters) in area, it is one of the largest public squares in the world. Along with the mausoleum of Mao Zedong at the center and the Forbidden Palace to the north, the square is surrounded by some of the most stunning features in Beijing. Equally breathtaking is the square’s rich history, which supports hundreds of significant events in Chinese history. The square has an unmistakable aura of nationalism and self-importance. Being present on this site during the early morning is the best time to witness the outstanding flag-raising ceremony in a dignified atmosphere. One needs to remember that security measures are in place, which do not allow entry with large bags or other forbidden objects. In summation, this experience framed the past and present of China in the context of its culture while providing a fresh and resounding outlook on the country and its people as a whole.
Which Temples in Beijing Should You Visit?
Which Temples in Beijing Should You Visit
The Temple of Heaven stands out among Beijing’s exquisite temples with its elaborate architecture and rich history stemming from ancient ceremonies praying for good harvests. The vibrant Tibetan Lama Temple (Yonghe Temple) contains impressive wood carvings of a colossal Buddha statue sculpted from sandalwood. The Confucius Temple allows reflection on the revered philosophies taught by Confucius, while the White Cloud Temple gives a peek into Taoist culture. All temples tell a different story regarding Beijing’s spirituality and magnificent architecture.
Discovering the Temple of Heaven
Located in Beijing, the Temple of Heaven is impressive as it blends Chinese architecture from the Ming and Qing Dynasty periods, making it a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its construction started in the mid-15th century, primarily for emperors to pray and make sacrifices in hopes of abundant harvest during certain seasons. Ancient Chinese cosmology is reflected in the buildings’ arrangement and the symbolism of its circular structure. The notable features include the Triple-gabled Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, which rests on a marble platform, the Circular Mound Altar, which sacrifices ceremonies, and the vault of heaven and the square base representing earth. The temple tablets clearly show the equilibrium blend between the harmonies of earth and heaven. Tourists marvel at how well made it is with its superb engineering, acoustics at the famous Echo Wall, or the vibrant ornamentation that decorates the Temple and gives it great cultural value.
The Serenity of the Lama Temple
Also called Yonghe Temple, the Lama Temple is among the grandest places in Tibet Buddhism in Beijing, China. It was constructed in 1694 as a royal residence during the Qing Dynasty and was subsequently changed into a Tibetan Buddhism monastery in 1744. The fusion of Han Chinese and Tibetan architecture provides a calm and culturally enriching ambiance, astounding the temple.
The temple has five primary halls, each bearing a different religious significance, and covers an extensive area of 66,400 square meters. The Hall of Harmony and Peace (Yonghegong) boasts three majestic sculptures of the Buddhas of the Three Ages. Meanwhile, Wanfu Pavilion has an 18-meter-high white sandalwood statue of Maitreya Buddha. This statue is the world record holder for its height and craftsmanship, carved from a single piece of wood.
The Lama Temple demonstrates the tranquility that encourages deep immersion in prayer rituals, rich Buddhist traditions, and art. It is well known for its delightful gardens and remarkable intricate carvings, which are overwhelming in their beauty and reveal centuries of devotion and spiritual artistry. This temple is a phenomenal sight for people looking for a blend of historical significance and spiritual essence.
Visiting the Majestic Summer Palace
The Summer Palace combines imperial craftsmanship with mother nature and is ever so beautiful. It was splendid to visit, and witnessing the distinct difference between Chinese nature and old architecture was a breathtaking experience. Some notable parts of the Palace include Kunming Lake, where you can take a peaceful boat ride alongside beautiful nature, and Longevity Hill, which offers a stunning view after the dirty work of climbing it. The Long Corridor is also a prime attraction, featuring lovely and complex paintings depicting historical and mythical events.
Aspects for Visiting the Summer Palace :
- Opening Hours: 6:30 AM—6:00 PM (April to October) and 7:00 AM—5:00 PM (November to March).
- Ticket Prices :
- April to October:
- Entrance ticket – ¥30
- Through ticket (including key attractions like the Tower of Buddhist Incense) – ¥60
- November to March:
- Entrance ticket – ¥20
- Through ticket – ¥50
- Travel Tips :
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the grounds are extensive.
- Plan to visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful environment.
In short, The Summer Palace has an extraordinary value blend between nature and architecture, making it ideal for exploration and self-reflection.
What are the top attractions for cultural enthusiasts in Beijing?
What are the top attractions for cultural enthusiasts in Beijing
Beijing is home to many cultural hotspots, including ancient relics for the history buffs and artworks for art lovers. The Imperial Palace contains the Forbidden City, a stunning palace complex that matches the architecture. One of the most ancient iconic buildings is also showcased at the Temple of Heaven, designed beautifully in the Ming and Qing Dynasties style. The alleyways are courtyard homes known in Hnatongs that show Beijing’s lifestyle and traditions. For anyone who wishes to learn more about the history of China, the National Museum of China is a must-visit. While it is the most multi-ethnic and cosmopolitan region, the Great Wall of China can be visited at its northern section at Mutianyu or Badaling.
The Rich History of the National Museum of China
Within the borders of Tiananmen Square, The National Museum of China gathers for its doors all necessary pieces of heritage that, with such a strong identity, define the location. Around a decade ago, in 2003, the Museum of Chinese History and the Museum of the Chinese Revolution were merged to become the museum of saved pieces of history and a set of relics spanning thousands of years. The collection comprises over 1.3 million pieces, including the Set of Exquisite Jade Wares of the Neolithic period and the world’s largest ancient bronze vessel, the Simuwu Ding.
- Location: East side of Tiananmen Square, Beijing, China.
- Established: 2003 (merger of two museums).
- Collection Size: Over 1.3 million artifacts.
- Highlight Pieces: Simuwu Ding (Bronze Age), Neolithic jade, Han Dynasty relief sculptures.
- Exhibition Space: Approximately 200,000 square meters, making it one of the largest museums globally.
- Visitor Capacity: Designed to host over 8 million visitors annually.
As it relates to the history and evolution of China, the museum preserves the legacy of the nation’s history and advances our understanding of its dynamic past.
Exploring the Vibrant Art District
The Art District is a vibrant area integrating new art forms, design, and technology into a creative city center. A vast collection of galleries, studios, and cultural institutions can be found in this district, which is located in a newly developed industrial area. Some of its most notable features are:
- Location: Other similar districts are located chiefly in the center of a city, and the rest of the city is developed around it. Investment in cultural development helps cities like Miami or Beijing give birth to new industrial Art Districts, which prove the existence of those areas, like Wynwood or 798 Art Districts.
- Notable Galleries: This region usually has at least one flagship contemporary art gallery and many other galleries, most of which feature modern art, immersive art installations, photography, and mixed media. Check for permanent exhibitions, as they change with the seasons.
- Infrastructure & Design: Industrial architecture remains, but with newly renovated warehouses, bespoke streets, and open spaces for the public, areas of the district have more charm. These spaces encourage people to wander and inspire their imagination.
- Event Spaces: These creative communities also promote live performances, workshops, and art fairs and always welcome visitors with something interesting. Art Basel satellite fairs and local gallery exhibitions are some local favorites.
- Visitor Tips: Try to schedule your visit on the weekends so you can take advantage of special events. Most local studios also offer tours for more hands-on participation.
This district perfectly exemplifies the coexistence of art and city life. It provides an environment where innovation and culture can be pursued simultaneously.
Experiencing Traditional Beijing Opera
Incredibly, as for the Beijing Opera, that is captivating! From what I had seen, the performers possessed unique costumes and figurative makeup, and the masks, along with physical motion, gave hand signs, all of which left me enthralled. Undoubtedly, the vocals provided alongside the instrumentation and the dance and acrobatics performed told the story in depth. Usually, the Soochow-style performances are done in specific theaters with optimum space, and the acoustics and visibility are astounding. If you intend to join, look for Zhengyici Theater or Liyuan Theater in Beijing. They are known for their original style of presentations. The average performance stretches for a good 2 to 3 hours, and it is usually prudent to book in advance as the price varies from $30 to $100 based on the position of the seat. Also, don’t forget to check out the explanations about the patterns in the performers’ makeup, as that will help you appreciate the culture more.
How to Plan Your Itinerary Around Beijing?
How to Plan Your Itinerary Around Beijing
When planning your trip to Beijing, finding a balance between stunning landmarks and local experiences is essential. Firstly, start brainstorming important landmarks like The Great Wall, The Forbidden City, or The Summer Palace. Set aside a day for each landmark to prevent feeling rushed and appreciate their magnitude. To create a more relaxed experience, visit The Temple of Heaven in the morning and go sightseeing through the Hutongs in the late afternoon. Attend cultural excursions during the evening, such as local night markets and Peking Opera. Save time and money by using public transportation systems, such as subways. Booking tickets ahead of time for popular performances and monuments is necessary to guarantee you do not miss out. For authentic Beijing meals, ensure you set aside time for the well-known Peking duck.
Best Time to Visit for Tourist Attractions
Beijing can be enjoyed best during spring and autumn, which are April to June and September to early November. These timeframes have decreasing rainfall and better temperatures, allowing for a more comfortable outdoor experience. Specifically:
- Spring (April – June)
- Daily Temperature Range: 50°F to 77°F (10°C to 25°C)
- Highlights: Blooming gardens and less-crowded tourist spots. It is suitable for visiting the Temple of Heaven and strolling through Hutongs.
- Autumn (September – Early November)
- Daily Temperature Range: 50°F to 73°F (10°C to 23°C)
- Highlights: Crisp air, colorful foliage, and visibility ideal for experiencing landmarks like the Great Wall.
Do not visit around major holidays such as Chinese New Year (late January or early February, varies) and Golden Week (October 1-7) as prices peak and places of interest become crowded. To make the most of your experience, visit on weekdays instead of weekends to avoid large crowds at popular tourist destinations.
Exploring the Quaint Hutongs
Hanyu and its stunning courtyards center around Zhoukoudian, known for its infamous prehistoric man. These stunning streets have historic value and were created during the Yuan dynasty (1271-1368), showcasing the Chinese people’s art, architecture, and lifestyle. Walking through Hutongs lets you catch a glimpse of old Beijing, giving you a unique experience of the city, which is filled with traditions and modernity.
Key Hutongs include Wudaoying, which offers a calmer and more serene experience; Yandaixie Street, well known for its antique shops and quaint souvenirs; and Nanluoguxiang, famous for its lively stores and cafe. Some Hutongs offer enriching cultural events such as performances, tea ceremonies, and calligraphy workshops.
If you want to make the most of your trip, pedicab tours allow you to customize your experience. For $20-$40, you can hire a guide for 1-2 hours and instruct them on your specific route or opt out of a guide altogether. Another usable option is to go on foot or rent a bike, which allows people more freedom to explore at their speed.
The Old Recreational Center offers paid guided photography sessions focusing on the eastern and western parts of the Hutongs. In the early morning or late evening, sunlight enhances the area’s beauty and captures its unique features. The pricing typically ranges from $30-$60, which provides detailed information regarding the alleyways’ mystical charm.
Tasting Authentic Peking Duck Delicacies
My experience with authentic Peking Duck was unforgettable. The dish is known for its tender, juicy meat, and crispy skin. It comes with thin pancakes, hoisin sauce, and scallions or cucumber. Serving this delicacy is an art that includes air-drying the duck for a few hours before roasting it in a specialized oven. This ensures crispiness, which makes the dish even more enjoyable.
Fine restaurants suggest trying the duck with a light jasmine tea or plum wine so the balance of rich flavors is pleasant. If you wish to create these delicate flavors at home, keep an oven temperature of 375-400 degrees Fahrenheit (190-200 degrees Celsius) so the skin is evenly roasted. Don’t forget to air dry the duck for 12-24 hours while basting it with a maltose glaze to provide a signature that shines and tastes.
Where to Stay in Beijing to Access Top Attractions?
Where to Stay in Beijing to Access Top Attractions
Staying at the heart of Beijing gives you easier access to top attractions. While in the Wangfujing area, you can explore The Forbidden City, dine at top Chinese restaurants, and visit the famous Tiananmen Square. The CBD (Central Business District) also has modern hotels and great transportation options. If you like traditional vibes, the Qianmen area has the historic Temple of Heaven and charming old hutong alleyways. Whatever your travel style, every corner has something unique to offer.
Accommodation in the Center of Beijing
Suppose you are looking for accommodation in the heart of Beijing. In that case, you will have no trouble finding an option that meets your preferences and budget, with all options conveniently located near major attractions:
- Luxury Hotels
- The Peninsula Beijing
- Distance to Forbidden City: ~1 mile (1.6 km)
- Features: Spacious suites, fine dining, spa services
- Price Range: ~$400-$600 per night
- Regent Beijing
- Distance to Wangfujing Street: ~0.3 miles (0.5 km)
- Features: Modern amenities, indoor pool, excellent service
- Price Range: ~$300-$500 per night
- Mid-Range Options
- Novotel Beijing Peace
- Distance to Tiananmen Square: ~1.2 miles (2 km)
- Features: Comfortable rooms, family-friendly gym facilities
- Price Range: ~$100-$200 per night
- Park Plaza Beijing Wangfujing
- Distance to Wangfujing Street: ~0.5 miles (0.8 km)
- Features: Convenient location, attentive staff, elegant design
- Price Range: ~$150-$250 per night
- Budget Stays
- 365 Inn Beijing Qianmen
- Distance to Temple of Heaven: ~1.8 miles (3 km)
- Features: Cozy atmosphere, affordable rates, hostel-style accommodation
- Price Range: ~$30-$60 per night
- Happy Dragon Alley Hotel
- Distance to Forbidden City: ~1.5 miles (2.4 km)
- Features: Boutique style, helpful staff, close to subway
- Price Range: ~$50-$80 per night
These accommodations provide a convenient base of operations for exploring Beijing’s cultural and historical landmarks. The options ensure that these tourists will have a memorable stay.
Luxury Stays Near Beijing Olympic Venues
To enjoy world-class facilities and key attractions simultaneously, booking accommodations in the vicinity of Olympic Venues, Beijing’s upscale area makes sense. This part of the city is famous for offering a blend of breathtaking luxury and natural beauty, attracting hundreds of visitors from around the globe.
- Pangu 7-Star Hotel
- Distance to Olympic Stadium (“Bird’s Nest”): ~0.2 miles (0.3 km)
- Features: Iconic architecture, luxurious suites, panoramic city views, spa services, and fine dining.
- Price Range: ~$400-$700 per night
- InterContinental Beijing Beichen
- Distance to Olympic Park: Direct access via Olympic Central Axis (~0.3 miles/0.5 km)
- Features: Elegant rooms, indoor pool, wellness center, and direct access to China National Convention Center.
- Facilities :
- Room sizes range from ~430 sq. ft. (40 sq. m) for standard options to ~1,500 sq. ft. (140 sq. m) for suites.
- 24-hour concierge services and multilingual staff.
- Price Range: ~$250-$500 per night
- China National Convention Center Grand Hotel
- Distance to “Water Cube” National Aquatics Center: ~0.6 miles (1 km)
- Features: Spacious rooms, meeting facilities, business-friendly, and excellent dining options.
- Price Range: ~$200-$400 per night
These places provide the utmost luxury compliance and comfort and ensure easy convenience to the modern landmarks and infrastructure within Olympic Park. These facilities uniquely suit business and leisure travelers, making an unrivaled experience in Beijing’s most dynamic location.
Convenient Options Near Beijing Capital International Airport
Hotels near Beijing Capital International Airport are particularly suitable for travelers looking for comfort, convenience, and amenities. Here are two options worth looking through:
- Cordis, Beijing Capital Airport by Langham Hospitality Group
- Distance to Airport: ~0.6 miles (1 km)
- Features: Modern rooms, complimentary airport shuttle, 24-hour fitness center, and a relaxing spa.
- Facilities :
- The average room size ranges from ~400 sq. ft. (37 sq. m) for standard rooms to ~1,200 sq. ft. (110 sq. m) for suites.
- High-speed Wi-Fi and work desks for business travelers.
- On-site restaurants offer a variety of international cuisines.
- Price Range: ~$150-$300 per night
- Hilton Beijing Capital Airport
- Distance to Airport: ~0.5 miles (0.8 km)
- Features: Soundproofed rooms, indoor pools, 24-hour concierge, and excellent dining options.
- Facilities :
- Rooms start at ~430 sq. ft (40 sq. m) and include upscale furnishings.
- Business facilities equipped with meeting rooms and catering services.
- Free airport shuttle service is available every 15 minutes.
- Price Range: ~$180-$350 per night
Both properties guarantee that travelers with early to late-night flights enjoy an effortless experience, superb services and amenities, and stress-free stays.
References
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the best things to do when you visit Beijing in 2025?
A: When you visit Beijing in 2025, explore iconic attractions such as the Forbidden City, a historic palace complex that offers an audio guide for a deeper understanding of Chinese culture. Don’t miss the Great Wall of China, especially the section near the city. Experience the vibrant Wangfujing area, known for its shops and street food. Visiting Beihai Park and the Drum Tower will enrich your journey with cultural heritage.
Q: What is a must-see section of the Great Wall near Beijing?
A: One of the best sections to see in Beijing is the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. It is renowned for its stunning views and well-preserved fortifications, offering a glimpse into China’s imperial past.
Q: How can I experience traditional Chinese culture in Beijing?
A: To immerse yourself in traditional Chinese culture, visit the Hutongs of Beijing, which are ancient alleyways that showcase traditional courtyard homes. Another must-visit is the Imperial Garden within the Forbidden City, where you can enjoy a peaceful stroll through Beihai Park.
Q: What are some top attractions in Beijing for a first-time visitor?
A: First-time visitors should explore the Palace Museum within the Forbidden City, the Gate of Heavenly Peace (Tiananmen Square), and the Summer Palace. These attractions in Beijing are rich in history and offer a comprehensive overview of the city’s past.
Q: How can I explore Beijing’s bustling city life?
A: To experience the bustling city life of Beijing, visit Wangfujing for shopping and street food, and spend a night in Beijing enjoying the lively atmosphere of Sanlitun, known for its bars and nightlife.
Q: What is the best way to travel around Beijing?
A: The best way to travel around Beijing is by using the efficient public transportation system, which includes the subway and buses. For convenience, you can also use taxis and ride-sharing apps. Beijing Daxing International Airport connects the city to other parts of the world.
Q: What should I include in my travel guide to Beijing for 2025?
A: Your travel guide to Beijing for 2025 should include significant attractions like the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and Jingshan Park. Highlight experiences like trying local street food and visiting the Beijing Zoo. Mention cultural spots like the Capital Museum and provide tips for visiting legacy sites during the 2022 Winter Olympics.
Q: Are there any recommended places to visit outside Beijing?
A: In Beijing, consider taking a day trip to the Ming Tombs or exploring further afield to Shanghai. Both are easily accessible and contrast the historical sights of Beijing.
Q: What are some unique experiences in Beijing for 2025?
A: Unique experiences in Beijing for 2025 include visiting the Republic of China-era buildings, exploring the city’s northeast for hidden historical gems, and attending cultural festivals highlighting Beijing’s diverse heritage.