Beijing is a sprawling metropolis where ancient imperial grandeur meets hyper-modern ambition. It is best known for its UNESCO World Heritage sites, winding hutong alleyways, and world-class culinary scene. The ideal time to visit is during the crisp, golden autumn months of September and October.
Top Things to Do in Beijing
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Getting Around Beijing
From the Airport
Airport Express Train. The Airport Express line connects Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) to the city center (Sanyuanqiao or Dongzhimen) in about 20-30 minutes for 25 RMB. Rideshare. The DiDi app is the standard for ridesharing in Beijing and works reliably at all terminals; ensure you have it set up with a payment method before arriving.
Once You're There
Metro. The Beijing Subway is the most efficient way to navigate the city, covering almost every major attraction with clear English signage and affordable fares. Rideshare. DiDi is the go-to app for taxis and private cars, essential for door-to-door travel when the metro stations are too far from your specific destination.
Where to Stay in Beijing
Hotel picks for Beijing are coming soon. In the meantime, search directly:
Where to Eat in Beijing
Black Sesame Kitchen★ 4.7 (26)28 Zhong Lao Hu Tong, Dong Cheng Qu, Bei Jing Shi, China, 100050A high-end private kitchen experience that takes diners on a multi-course journey through authentic Chinese home-style cooking.
TRB Hutong★ 4.5 (48)China, Beijing Dong Cheng Qu, # 23 Shatan North Street 邮政编码: 100009Located inside a restored temple complex, this fine-dining spot offers a sophisticated fusion of European techniques and local ingredients.
Mr. Shi's Dumplings★ 4.4 (220)74 Bao Chao Hu Tong, Dong Cheng Qu, Bei Jing Shi, China, 100009A casual, beloved spot famous for its creative variety of handmade dumplings, ranging from classic pork to innovative cheese fillings.
Siji Minfu Roast Duck Restaurant★ 4.4 (186)11 Nan Chi Zi Da Jie, 11, Dong Cheng Qu, China, 100006Locals flock here for the perfect balance of crispy skin and tender meat served with traditional condiments.
Made in China★ 4.4 (77)Dongcheng, China, 100006Located in the Grand Hyatt, this restaurant features an open kitchen where you can watch chefs prepare succulent duck and dim sum.
Hua's Restaurant★ 4.4 (28)China, Bei Jing Shi, Chao Yang Qu, 呼家楼 Dong San Huan Bei Lu, 38号院-2民生大厦3层 邮政编码: 100020Known for its elaborate traditional courtyard setting, it serves excellent Beijing specialties like braised pork belly.
Dadong Roast Duck★ 4.3 (419)China, Bei Jing Shi, Dong Cheng Qu, Jin Bao Jie, 88号金宝汇购物中心5层 邮政编码: 100005Famous for its 'super-lean' duck preparation, this upscale restaurant is a favorite for those seeking a modern twist on a classic.
Quanjude Roast Duck★ 4.0 (630)9 Shuai Fu Yuan Hu Tong, Wangfujing, Dong Cheng Qu, Bei Jing Shi, China, 100005This historic institution is the gold standard for authentic Peking roast duck, carved tableside with precision.
Tours & Activities
Bookable through Viator.
3 Days in Beijing
Imperial Heart of Beijing
Morning. Start your journey bright and early at Tiananmen Square to witness the vast scale of China's political center. Walk north through the Meridian Gate to enter the Forbidden City, where you should spend at least three hours exploring the intricate courtyards and imperial halls. Be sure to book your tickets online well in advance, as they sell out daily. After soaking in the history, exit through the north gate and cross the street to climb the hill at Jingshan Park. The view from the Wanchun Pavilion provides the most iconic panoramic photograph of the Forbidden City's golden roofs against the city skyline.
Afternoon. After a morning of walking, head to the nearby National Museum of China to delve deeper into the country's extensive archaeological heritage. Spend a couple of hours admiring the bronze vessels and jade artifacts that span thousands of years of civilization. Once you have had your fill of history, take a short taxi ride to the Wangfujing Snack Street area. While it is quite touristy, it is a great place to experience the bustling energy of Beijing’s commercial heart. Grab a quick snack before wandering over to the nearby St. Joseph's Cathedral to admire its unique architectural blend.
Evening. Wind down your first day by heading to the historic Donghuamen area for a refined dinner. Immerse yourself in the local atmosphere by strolling through the nearby hutongs, which are the narrow, ancient alleyways that define old Beijing. You will find that these quiet lanes offer a sharp, peaceful contrast to the chaotic main roads. End your evening at a local teahouse to sample some jasmine or oolong tea, reflecting on the day's massive architectural feats. The transition from the grand palaces to the intimate alleyways is the perfect introduction to the city's duality.
The Great Wall & Cultural Heritage
Morning. Dedicate your entire morning to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall of China, which is less crowded and better maintained than Badaling. Arrange for a private driver or a guided tour to pick you up early, as the drive from central Beijing takes about 90 minutes. Once you arrive, take the cable car up to the wall for breathtaking views of the watchtowers snaking across the lush mountain ridges. Walk along the ramparts for a few kilometers to truly appreciate the sheer scale of this ancient fortification. For a fun descent, consider taking the toboggan slide back down to the base.
Afternoon. Return to the city and head straight to the Temple of Heaven, a masterpiece of Ming Dynasty architecture where emperors once prayed for good harvests. Spend your time wandering through the sprawling park that surrounds the main structures, where you will see locals practicing Tai Chi or playing traditional board games. The Echo Wall and the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests are the absolute highlights here, showcasing perfect geometric symmetry. It is a deeply serene place that offers a beautiful look into the spiritual life of imperial China. Enjoy the walk through the cypress groves as the afternoon sun filters through the trees.
Evening. As the sun begins to set, make your way to the Lama Temple, which is the most important Tibetan Buddhist temple outside of Tibet. Admire the stunning incense-filled courtyards and the massive statue of Maitreya Buddha carved from a single piece of sandalwood. Afterward, walk over to the nearby Wudaoying Hutong, a trendy yet preserved alleyway filled with boutique shops and cozy cafes. This area is much more relaxed than the major tourist hubs and perfectly captures the modern, creative spirit of Beijing's youth. Enjoy a quiet dinner in one of the hidden courtyards tucked away in this charming neighborhood.
Summer Palaces & Contemporary Art
Morning. Spend your morning exploring the vast grounds of the Summer Palace, the ultimate retreat for China's former emperors. Start at the East Palace Gate and make your way toward Kunming Lake, which serves as the centerpiece of this massive imperial garden. Walk along the Long Corridor, a covered walkway decorated with thousands of intricate paintings, before heading up Longevity Hill. If you have time, rent a small boat to row across the lake for a unique perspective of the Marble Boat and the Seventeen-Arch Bridge. It is a massive site, so wear comfortable walking shoes and bring plenty of water.
Afternoon. Head to the northeast of the city to the 798 Art District, a former military factory complex now transformed into a hub for contemporary art. Spend several hours wandering through the industrial-chic galleries, street art installations, and avant-garde sculpture gardens. You will find that the contrast between the old Bauhaus-style architecture and the modern art pieces creates a unique aesthetic. Stop by one of the many cafes tucked inside the old warehouses for a mid-afternoon coffee break. This district is essential for understanding how Beijing is evolving into a global center for modern creativity.
Evening. Wrap up your Beijing trip by visiting Prince Gong's Mansion, a beautifully preserved residence that offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Qing Dynasty aristocracy. The gardens here are considered some of the finest in the city, featuring rockeries and ponds that are perfect for a final evening stroll. Afterward, head toward the Houhai Lake area, which is famous for its lively nightlife and traditional courtyard bars. Enjoy a farewell dinner overlooking the water, watching the lanterns reflect on the lake surface. It is the perfect, atmospheric ending to your three-day exploration of China's capital.
