Top 20 Best Things to Do in Beijing: Essential Attractions for Travelers

Beijing marks the fusion of rich cultural heritage with modern advances in technology. Also known for its modern skyscrapers and deep-fried snacks, this dynamic city boasts of capitalism and communism. It’s a destination ideal for everyone from history buffs and foodies to globetrotters. The Great Wall, Forbidden City, exotic Chinese cuisines, and dynamic marketplaces await you. Planning has become a little easier, as you can access a one-stop blog that suits all your adventurous desires. Hence, prepare to assemble unforgettable moments in Beijing, one of the world’s most lively capitals.

What Are the Must-See Attractions in Beijing?

What Are the Must-See Attractions in Beijing

Beijing is overflowing with incredible landmarks and cultural gems that should be on your bucket list. Start with the Great Wall of China, one of the world’s ancient wonders. It is a UNESCO site that grants astonishing views alongside a look into ancient engineering beauty. Next, we move on to the Forbidden City, China’s former imperial palace, representing China’s dynastic grandeur. During your visit, stop by Tiananmen Square, which is of historical and political importance. When looking for a serene experience, the Temple of Heaven, one of the landmarks of Chinese architecture, is perfect. Lastly, walk the gardens and lakes at the Summer Palace. All of these landmarks perfectly represent the history and the great culture that the capital of China has to offer.

Explore the Forbidden City

The Forbidden City is a large imperial palace that served as China’s political and ceremonial center for centuries. It is situated in the center of Beijing and was built during the Ming Dynasty. It is one of the largest palatial complexes globally, covering over 180 acres. It has over 980 preserved structures containing nearly 8700 rooms, all designed in symmetrical harmony and traditional Chinese architecture.

Key Features and Details:

• Constructed: 1406-1420 during the Ming Dynasty.
• Materials Used: Primarily wood, with marble bases and vibrant glazed tiles.
• Architecture: Axial symmetry, following ancient Chinese cosmological principles.
• Area Covered: 720,000 square meters (180 acres).
• Maximum Height (Hall of Supreme Harmony): 35.05 meters (115 feet).
• Accessibility: Tuesday to Sunday at 0830; hours vary seasonally, with the last entry around 1530.

The Forbidden City has breathtaking halls, courtyards, and stunning artworks related to China. Walk a lot and learn about the country’s rich history as you’re amazed by this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Walk Along the Great Wall of China

One of the highlights of traditional Chinese architecture and engineering is the Great Wall of China, which is over 13,000 miles long and was built between the 7th century BC and the Ming Dynasty (1368 to 1644). This towering structure fulfilled multiple functions, such as a defense mechanism, a border control system, and a way to encourage trade on the Silk Road. Now, it is a symbol of cultural pride.

• Key Sections for Visitors: The most popular restored sections include Badaling, Mutianyu, Jinshanling, and Jiankou. Badaling provides the easiest access, while Jiankou is known for its difficulty. All of these sections provide breathtaking views and offer trekking opportunities. Families with children would be best suited for Badaling, as it is the most friendly family section, unlike Jiankou, which is known for its rough and steeper landscape.
• Details:
  • Length: Approximately 21,196 kilometers (13,171 miles)
  • Height: Varies by section, typically 6 to 7.8 meters (20 to 26 feet)
  • Width: Roughly 4 to 5 meters (13 to 16 feet) on the top for walking
• Best Time to Visit: For Beatification purposes, springtime, around April to May, and autumn, September to November, are the best. During these seasons, the weather is more moderate, the places are not overly crowded, and the beauty of nature shines. Summer months can be more crowded with tourists and hypothermic temperatures, and winter months are less crowded but freezing and icy.

To achieve a deep, unforgettable experience, plan your visit according to your fitness level, preferred weather, or cultural history versus hiking preferences. Walking along the Great Wall provides stunning views and a deep connection with one of the world’s architectural wonders.

Visit the Majestic Temple of Heaven

The Temple of Heaven is located in Beijing, which served as an imperial sacrificial site where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties prayed for good harvests. It is now a historical masterpiece that makes me awestruck. While walking through the vast grounds, I also marveled at the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, a circular wooden structure without a single nail holding it, symbolic of harmony between heaven and Earth (45-meter height and 30-meter diameter). The locals practicing Tai Chi and traditional music around the park add to the serenity. The best times to visit the Temple are early mornings, especially from March to May or September to November, with pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and not so crowded. Wear comfortable walking shoes because the grounds are expansive, and don’t forget to check the Echo Wall, a remarkable example of ancient acoustical engineering. During peak seasons, purchasing reservation tickets beforehand is wise to enjoy faster entry.

How Can I Best Experience the Great Wall of China?

How Can I Best Experience the Great Wall of China

Like any other tourist spot, the Great Wall has its perks, and they come with proper planning. If it’s your first visit, pay attention to extraordinary natural sights while exercising your legs at the wall‘s south side, known as the Mutianyu Section. In contrast, if you’re a seasoned traveler and have checked a few walls off your list, the lesser-known sections of Simatai and Jinshanling will be the ones you’re looking for. I recommend visiting during Sammy or Juni if you find unbeatable sights and a comfortable walk. Sticking to the shoulder months, spring or autumn, allows for smooth weather alongside fair and fresh visuals. To ensure the experience is eye-catching and memorable, prepare for an early start to beat the crowds. To top it off, investing in sturdy footwear is essential as parts of the wall are steep and uneven. The Great Wall’s rich history and immense importance can be understood better with a hired guide to boost the experience even more.

Choosing the Right Section of the Great Wall: Badaling vs. Mutianyu

In choosing between Badaling and Mutianyu, keep in mind the level of difficulty that you are willing to allocate to the accessibility and the atmosphere as well as the facilities that these places offer. Below are comparisons that can help you better understand the pros and cons of each location:

• Accessibility:
  • Badaling: Amenities such as direct and uninterrupted trains and buses from Beijing make Badaling very accessible. This spot is especially ideal for travelers who value ease.
  • Mutianyu:Shuttle buses and transfer services are offered, but traveling in a car for about 1.5-2 hours is necessary. The distance from Beijing is a concern.
• Crowds:
  • Badaling: During certain times of the year, such as peak travel seasons, Badaling is almost always the most popular section, attracting an overwhelming crowd. Expect a more energetic visit.
  • Mutianyu: Unlike Badaling, this location offers a calm and serene sensation, which is accompanied by a feeling of intimacy because of low crowding.
• Scenery:
  • Badaling: The restored walls and iconic watchtowers dominate this scenery, which makes it less natural yet highly photogenic.
  • Mutianyu: Lush greenery surrounds the place and combines natural beauty with historical architecture.
• Facilities:
  • These two sections possess modern amenities such as pathways, restaurants, and toilets, which ensure comfort. However, Badaling appears to have more tourist facilities than Mutianyu.
• Special Features:
  • This location offers a cable car and a unique toboggan ride. This alone makes Mutianyu famous and a must-visit spot, especially for families and adventurers.

Recommendation:

Best Time to Visit the Great Wall

It is best to visit the Great Wall during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these periods, the surrounding nature blooms with flowers or glows with vibrant autumn foliage. The temperatures during these periods are moderate, typically between 10 to 25 degrees Celcius, thus making the visit highly enjoyable.

Summer allows for green hills and lush scenery, but one must contend with the heat as temperatures soar up to 35 degrees Celsius. Summer in China also marks vacation for many locals, meaning more tourists. Popular sections like Badaling are often overrun with tourists leading into Winter (December to February). Winter provides serenity that does not go unnoticed, although the temperatures can drop significantly, usually ranging from -10 to 5 degrees Celsius.

The Great Wall presents breathtaking postcard views at sunrise or sunset. Therefore, for those planning to visit the wall, morning or late afternoon in any season is the best time to avoid the crowds.

Transportation Tips: Subway and Taxi Options

Taking the subway is one of the most economical and convenient ways to reach the Great Wall. Lines often connect to shuttle buses that head directly to popular sections like Badaling or Mutianyu. For instance, you can take Line 13 or 15 to Huoying Station and transfer to a direct S2 train to Badaling. Check the train schedule and arrive early to secure your seat, as it can get busy during peak times.

Alternatively, taxis are a flexible but more expensive option. Always ensure the driver uses the meter or agrees on a fixed price before starting your trip. The taxi ride from central Beijing to the Great Wall typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic, and costs approximately 300–500 RMB each way. Ride-hailing apps like Didi can also provide reliable service and transparent pricing.

What Cultural Sites Should I Include in My Beijing Travel?

What Cultural Sites Should I Include in My Beijing Travel

Beijing’s immense cultural heritage provides an astounding variety of places to visit. One such attraction is The Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its tremendous palace complex that is an ode to China’s imperial magnificence. Tiananmen Square is close by and equally important as a landmark of China and a memorial of the 1989 demonstrations. The Temple of Heaven is one of the marvels of the Ming dynasty’s architecture and was used in ancient ceremonies. Summer Palace is another must-see, renowned for its complex of tranquil lakes and exquisitely ornamental gardens that are a hallmark of the Qing dynasty’s aesthetic. Hutongs, the type of alleys that used to be the mainstay in ancient times, can be found all over Beijing and contribute in their little way towards the beauty of old Beijing.

The Historic Ming Tombs

The Ming Tombs, found in the Changping District, are where 13 emperors from the Ming dynasty rest. Famous for being a necropolis, the Ming Tombs showcase ancient Chinese architectural prowess and cultural past. Each tomb tells a story of the emperor it captures, a fine example being the Changling Tomb of Emperor Yongle with a noble engraving and the purple-roofed Dingling Tomb housing an excavated underground palace.

Key Features:

• Location: Approximately 30 miles northwest of central Beijing.
• Construction Period: Spanning from the early 15th century to the 17th century.
• Key Sites: Changling Tomb, Dingling Tomb, Sacred Way (lined with stone figures and animal statues).
• Architectural Style: Harmoniously combines Confucian principles with traditional Chinese landscaping and Feng Shui alignment.
• Area Covered: Over 120 square kilometers.
• Cultural Importance: Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its historical and architectural significance.

A visit to the Ming Tombs offers unparalleled insight into imperial China’s dynastic history and spirituality, making it a noteworthy destination for history lovers and anyone captivated by ancient Chinese civilization.

Exploring the Summer Palace

The Summer Palace lies in the Haidian District of Beijing and is a stunningly beautiful mix of Chinese garden design and imperial architecture. It covers an area of around 2.9 square kilometers, over three-quarters of which is water. It was previously used as a royal getaway for the emperors who sought natural relaxation away from the city. The Summer Palace was initially built in 1750 in the Qing Dynasty and is a true masterpiece of art.

Key Features:

• Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill dominate the palace’s design. They symbolize the interplay of water and mountainous regions, one of the major features of Chinese landscaping.
• Architectural Highlights: Iconic artistic structures such as the Tower of Buddhist Incense, The Long Corridor (728 meters long), and the Marble Boat assemble intricate, fueling cultural themes.
• Nature and Layout: Feng Shui’s vibrant nature possesses an intricate network of pavilions, bridges, and pathways, which gives it aesthetic appeal.

Cultural and Historical Significance:

The Summer Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its blend of Chinese philosophy. It represents the affluent lifestyle of the imperial reign and is an architectural wonder.

Additional Details:

• Construction Materials: For artistic optimization and refinement, standard timber, stone, and bricks were used.
• Restoration Work: After the damage in the Second Opium Wa, it was extensively repaired in the late 19th century on the orders of the Dowager Empress Cixi.

When visiting the Summer Palace, one can see a masterpiece of nature combined with ancient architecture. This palace reveals the deep history of China and is a grand heritage site for many people who love cultural history.

The Charm of Traditional Hutongs

I am captivated by traditional hutongs’ history and unique charm, which reflect ancient Beijing’s lifestyle and sociological aspects. These narrow alleys formed by siheyuan (courtyard houses) are the essence of the city’s residential culture. From the width of the alley, which is between two to six meters, to the size of the siheyuan, which is three to four hundred square meters, everything is built with the harmony of both function and beauty in mind. Preserving many hutongs that date back to the Yuan, Ming, and Qing Dynasties is critical since they link us to Beijing’s rich history and culture.

Where Can I Taste Authentic Peking Duck?

Where Can I Taste Authentic Peking Duck

For the most authentic Peking Duck, people frequently recommend Quanjude, Bianyifang, and Da Dong Roast Duck Restaurant. These places are famous for maintaining outstanding standards of traditional craftsmanship by achieving the perfect balance of crispy skin and tender meat. Each has its twist on the landmark dish, making them a must-visit for everyone wanting to enjoy the traditional flavors of Beijing.

Top Restaurants for Beijing Roast Duck

1. Quanjude

• • • Established: 1864
    • Signature Feature: Traditional preparation of Peking Duck using an open oven fueled by fruitwood.
    • Notable Dish: Whole roast duck served with thin pancakes, hoisin sauce, and scallions.
    • Address: Multiple locations, including the iconic branch at Qianmen Street.

2. Bianyifang

• • • Established: 1416 (reputed as one of the oldest Peking Duck restaurants).
    • Signature Feature: Unique “closed-oven” technique for roasting, resulting in juicy duck with a distinct flavor.
    • Notable Dish: Crispy skin paired with tender meat and traditional condiments.
    • Address: Located across Beijing, with a prominent outlet near Chongwenmen.

3. Da Dong Roast Duck Restaurant

• • • Established: 1985
    • Signature Feature: Modern, innovative approaches to Peking Duck preparation with a focus on lighter, less greasy results.
    • Notable Dish: Artistic plating of the roast duck, complemented by an array of gourmet dipping sauces.
    • Address: Numerous locations, including Jinbao Place in Dongcheng District.

These eateries illustrate the multifaceted mastery of Beijing’s restaurants, for each serving of roast duck is a celebration unto itself, integrating modern innovations with age-old customs.

A Guide to Wangfujing Snack Street

For food enthusiasts, Wangfujing Snack Street is a culinary heaven that offers a glimpse into Beijing’s authentic street food culture. This busy street located Downtown is filled with vendors selling an astonishing range of local and regional cuisines. You can expect to relish grilled lamb and seafood, dumplings, scorpions, candied fruits, and famous Beijing noodles, not to mention the delicious scorpions. While exploring the savory dishes, the blend of sweet aromas prepared by the vendors and the banter from residents and travelers alike add to the atmosphere, making it truely incomparable.

I suggest visiting Wangfujing in the evening as the streets are bustling and full of energy. Make sure to wear some comfortable shoes as the place tends to attract a lot of footfall; also, be sure to bring cash or a mobile payment option since most vendors do not accept Credit cards. Wangfujing Snack Street opens at 6 pm, and 9 pm is the latest you can get there; it is also located at 39.9142° N and 116.4041° E. For both the adventurous foodies and those who like sticking to the tried and true, Wangfujing Snack Street serves delicious food that is sure to astound customers all over the globe.

What Should I Know About Beijing’s Nightlife?

What Should I Know About Beijing’s Nightlife

Beijing offers nightlife infused with rich cultural and modern elements. Trendy bars and clubs are located in Sanlitun, while Houhai’s historic areas have mellow tea houses and artistic performances. Gulou neighborhoods are famous for unique breweries and live music, while Donghuamen night markets offer local delicacies and snacks. Public transportation operates until roughly 11 pm, so remember that otherwise, rideshare apps provide easy alternatives. No matter the type of venue you seek to visit or whether you wish to take a relaxing stroll, the nightlife options in Beijing are abundant and vibrant.

Top Bars and Clubs for a Night in Beijing

1. Mix Club

Mix Club is rounding out the top spots close to Beijing. It is famous for its astounding energy and experienced DJs. Mix Club flares in hip-hop and electronic, with a premium sound system and colorful lights. The club is sure to hypnotize all visitors. For both travelers and locals, Mix is the ideal spot to let loose and dance till the sun comes up.

2. Funny Club

Positioned close to the Workers’ Stadium, Vics also ranks as the best venue. Tourists frequent this spot due to the energetic vibe and heavy hip-hop, R&B, and Electronic music. Vics never fails to host a great crowd. In return, the club provides an extensive range of beverages to every party animal that zips through the immaculate decor and intoxicating atmosphere.

3. Dada Beijing

Another club on the list that tops the nightlife scene in Beijing is Dada, which is located in the Gulou area. Dada’s intimate vibe makes the crowd feel closer to the DJ while drinking from an affordable bar. It is known for its electronic and experimental music with DJ sets from independent artists, so be prepared for an energetic night.

4. The Bar at Migas

The Bar at Migas In Sanlitun, you will find The Bar at Migas, conveniently located on a rooftop. The relaxed, urban vibe is perfect for sipping expertly made cocktails, and the stunning view is an undeniable bonus. With a sharp lifestyle and regular live performances or themed parties, there isn’t a dull moment here.

5. Modernist

Tips for Enjoying Beijing’s Bars and Clubs:

• Opening Times – Most bars and clubs open around 8 PM and stay open until 2 or 3 AM. Double-check specific hours before visiting.
• Entrance Fees—Some venues, like Mix Club and Vics Club, may charge entrance fees of 50 to 150 RMB.
• Dress Code – Many high-end clubs enforce dress codes, so opt for smart-casual attire to ensure entry.
• Payment Methods—While most places accept major credit cards or mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay, it is advisable to keep some cash on hand for smaller establishments.
• Transportation – Use rideshare apps like DiDi for a hassle-free commute late at night when public transportation is no longer available.

No matter your nightlife preference, Beijing provides endless stylish and lively options to explore!

Experience the Beijing Opera

Peking Opera combines music, singing, dance, and acrobatics into a single art form and is one of the most cherished components of Chinese culture. Its long-standing history symbolizes the evolution of Chinese civilization over the centuries. With dynamic storytelling, complicated choreography, bright costumes, and vivid face makeup, opera breathes life into myths and ancient folktales.

Key Elements of Beijing Opera:

• Four Main Artistic Components:
  • Chang (Singing) – This includes emotional storytelling and singing that adds depth to the narrative.
  • Nian (Speech) – The rhythmic storytelling dialogue further clarifies the plot.
  • Zuo (Acting/Movement) – Expressive postures accompanied by rhythmical twirls and body movements conveying feelings and actions.
  • Da (Combat/Acrobatics) – Stylized actions embracing martial arts blended with acrobatics.
• Facial Makeup:
  • Each color represents different character traits:
    • Red – Loyalty and bravery.
    • White – Treachery or cunning.
    • Black – Integrity and firmness.
    • Gold/Silver – Immortality or deities.
• Costumes and Props:
  • Intricate embroidery and vibrant designs reflect the characters’ status, roles, and the story’s historical background.

Experience Tips:

1. Where to Watch:

• • • For those who appreciate authentic performances set in traditional settings, Huguang Guild Hall and Zhengyici Theater offer unrivaled performances.
    • Newer stage technology improves the latest performances in larger venues, such as the National Center for the Performing Arts.

2. Details:

• • • Unlike Mandarin, some shows offer translation to other languages, and the duration of the shows usually takes 2 to 3 hours.
    • The prices differ depending on the location and seat, ranging from 200 to 800 RMB.
    • The theater’s design helps the performers’ voices carry through the room without using microphones, so the acoustics help amplify their voices.

3. Cultural Context:

• • • Seeing a Beijing Opera show is a performance and a chance to learn about and appreciate China’s immense artistic history. To maximize your experience, you can read a summary of the plot of the opera you have chosen.

Educating yourself on the Beijing Opera by watching a performance is a must for anyone who wishes to appreciate China’s astounding artistic and historical blend.

Discover the 798 Art District

My visit to the 798 Art District was one that I will not forget, as it was highly pleasing and enjoyable! It lies in the Chaoyang District of Beijing and is one of the places where modern art meets culture and industrial innovation. Previously, it was a set of factories built in the Bauhaus style, but it has now evolved into an artistic region filled with numerous art galleries, studios, and coffee shops.

Key details you might want to know:

• Operating Hours: Most galleries and stores are open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, though some may operate differently.
• Entry: The district is free to enter, but some galleries and exhibitions charge an entrance fee of 20 – 100 RMB.
• Accessibility: The district is walkable, but be ready to do a lot of walking.
• Atmosphere: With outdoor sculptures, trendy cafes, and creative exhibits, there is something new to inspire every visitor.

For art enthusiasts, 798 Art District should be at the top of your list of places to visit, as it offers the most modern and innovative designs.

References

Beijing

Great Wall of China

Forbidden City

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the top things for a first-time visitor to Beijing to do?

A: When you visit Beijing, explore the Great Wall, especially the Badaling section. You should also visit Tian’anmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Palace Museum and stroll through the traditional Beijing hutongs.

Q: Can you suggest an itinerary for spending half a day in Beijing?

A: Start your morning at Tian’anmen Square for a half-day itinerary in Beijing, then visit the National Museum of China. After that, explore the nearby Forbidden City and conclude with a walk through the picturesque Beihai Park.

Q: What is unique about the Olympic Park in Beijing?

A: The Olympic Park in Beijing is renowned for its iconic architecture, including the Bird’s Nest Stadium and the Water Cube. It’s a great place to sightsee and learn about the 2008 Olympics.

Q: Why should I visit the National Museum of China?

A: The National Museum of China is a must-visit for understanding Chinese history and culture. Its vast collection of artifacts spans thousands of years and offers a comprehensive insight into the Chinese capital’s past.

Q: What are hutongs, and why are they significant?

A: Hutongs are traditional alleyways in Beijing that offer a glimpse into the city’s history. Exploring these narrow streets and courtyard homes provides a unique experience of traditional Beijing.

Q: What attractions are a must-see around Beijing?

A: Beyond the city, the Summer Palace and the Temple of Heaven are significant sites. The Lama Temple and the Bell and Drum Towers are also worth visiting for their historical and cultural importance.

Q: How can I experience traditional Beijing during my trip?

A: To experience traditional Beijing, visit the hutongs, attend a Peking opera performance, explore the imperial garden at Beihai Park, and try local delicacies at a night market.

Q: What is the best way to get around in Beijing?

A: Exploring the city is easiest via Beijing’s extensive subway system, which connects most major tourist attractions. Taxis and buses are also available but be prepared for peak-hour traffic.

Q: How does the Great Hall of the People play into a Beijing trip?

A: The Great Hall of the People is located in the heart of Beijing, next to Tian’anmen Square. It hosts legislative and ceremonial activities and is open to visitors when not in use.

Q: Do you have any tips on visiting the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong?

A: When visiting the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong, plan to arrive early to avoid long lines. Note that photography is not allowed inside, and respectful attire is recommended.