Beijing, the capital city of China, is a city steeped in history, with a rich cultural heritage and a plethora of iconic landmarks. For those pondering things to do in Beijing, exploring the Forbidden City, a vast palace complex that served as the imperial palace for nearly 500 years, and visiting the Great Wall of China, one of the most impressive architectural feats in history, are top activities.
The city’s bustling Wangfujing Street offers a premier shopping experience, with numerous stores, restaurants, and street food stalls. Nearby, the Temple of Heaven, a complex of religious buildings used by emperors for ceremonies of prayer to Heaven, provides a glimpse into the city’s imperial past.
Beyond its historical and cultural attractions, Beijing is also renowned for its culinary scene, with numerous restaurants serving Peking duck, a dish synonymous with the city. For those seeking the best places to visit in China, Beijing’s blend of ancient history, cultural richness, and gastronomic delights makes it a must-visit destination.
Attractions & Things to Do in Beijing, China
1. The Great Wall of China at Mutianyu
Just a short trip from Beijing, the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall offers a less crowded experience with stunning views of the wall winding over the hills. This section is well-preserved and features several watchtowers along its length.
Location: 70 km northeast of Beijing, accessible by car or bus.
Scenic Spot: A well-preserved section of the Great Wall offering breathtaking views of mountains and valleys.
Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November) for pleasant weather and beautiful scenery.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but some steep sections may be challenging for young children and elderly visitors. A cable car is available.
Price: €6 for entrance; cable car €11-€18 (one way/round trip).
Travel Tip: Consider taking the cable car up and the toboggan ride down for a unique and exhilarating experience.
2. Forbidden City
The Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an immense palace complex that once served as the imperial palace for 24 emperors. It’s the world’s largest palatial complex, showcasing traditional Chinese architecture and cultural artifacts.
Location: Central Beijing, near Tiananmen Square. Accessible via Tiananmen East/West subway stations.
Scenic Spot: A vast imperial palace complex with stunning traditional Chinese architecture and historical artifacts.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid crowds; spring and autumn offer the most comfortable weather.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, though large crowds and long walking distances may be tiring for young children and elderly visitors.
Price: €6.30 (low season), €8.80 (high season). Free for children under 1.2m in height.
Travel Tip: Buy tickets online in advance to avoid the ticket lines, and remember that the Forbidden City is closed on Mondays.
3. Temple of Heaven
A marvel of Ming Dynasty architecture, the Temple of Heaven is where emperors would perform solemn rites for good harvests, celestial blessings, and imperial legitimacy. The park surrounding it is equally captivating, filled with ancient cypress trees and local residents practicing tai chi.
Location: Dongcheng District, Beijing. Accessible via Tiantandongmen Station.
Scenic Spot: A grand imperial temple set in a peaceful park where emperors once prayed for good harvests.
Best Time to Visit: Morning for a chance to see locals practicing tai chi and traditional exercises.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with wide paths and relaxing green spaces.
Price: €2.50 (park entry), €5 (full access to temple buildings).
Travel Tip: Visit early in the morning to experience local life and perhaps join a tai chi session.
4. Summer Palace
An exquisite example of Chinese garden design, the Summer Palace is a vast ensemble of lakes, gardens, and palaces. It was once a royal retreat from Beijing’s summer heat.
Location: Haidian District, northwest Beijing. Accessible via Beigongmen Station.
Scenic Spot: A beautiful imperial garden featuring Kunming Lake, Longevity Hill, and historical pavilions.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for comfortable weather and fewer tourists.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but some areas involve uphill walking, which may be difficult for elderly visitors.
Price: €3.80 (low season), €6.30 (high season).
Travel Tip: Rent a boat to float peacefully on Kunming Lake and admire the views of the palace and gardens from the water.
5. Tiananmen Square
One of the largest public squares in the world, Tiananmen Square is surrounded by significant buildings, including the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong and the National Museum of China.
Location: Central Beijing, in front of the Forbidden City. Accessible via Tiananmen East/West Station.
Scenic Spot: One of the world’s largest public squares, home to important landmarks like the Monument to the People’s Heroes and Mao Zedong’s Mausoleum.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning to witness the flag-raising ceremony.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but can be crowded, and security checks are required.
Price: Free to enter; some museums and buildings around the square may charge fees.
Travel Tip: Security can be strict, so carry identification and be prepared for bag checks.
6. National Museum of China
Situated on the eastern side of Tiananmen Square, this museum is vast, chronicling Chinese history from ancient times to the modern era.
Location: East side of Tiananmen Square.
Scenic Spot: A massive museum showcasing China’s history and cultural artifacts.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with exhibits for both adults and children.
Price: Free, but some special exhibitions may charge fees.
Travel Tip: Focus on sections that interest you most, as it’s nearly impossible to see everything in one visit.
7. Beijing National Stadium (Bird’s Nest)
Iconic for its role in the 2008 Olympics, the Bird’s Nest is a marvel of modern engineering and design.
Location: Olympic Green, north Beijing.
Scenic Spot: The iconic stadium from the 2008 Olympics, known for its striking architectural design.
Best Time to Visit: Evening when the stadium is illuminated.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with easy access and open areas.
Price: €6.30 for entrance; additional charges for guided tours.
Travel Tip: The area is impressive when lit up at night, and you can often find a good vantage point for photos from the Olympic Park.
8. Hutongs
Beijing’s traditional alleyways, or hutongs, offer a glimpse into the city’s old way of life. Many have been modernized but still retain their historical charm.
Location: Various areas, most famous around Shichahai and Nanluoguxiang.
Scenic Spot: Narrow alleyways with traditional courtyard homes, local shops, and cultural experiences.
Best Time to Visit: Afternoon or evening for the best atmosphere.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, though some alleys have uneven paths.
Price: Free to explore; guided tours range from €10-€30.
Travel Tip: Consider a guided hutong tour, which often includes a family visit and a meal, to learn more about these unique neighborhoods.
9. Wangfujing Street
This bustling shopping street is known for its mix of modern malls, traditional shops, and its famous snack street where adventurous eaters can try local delicacies.
Location: Dongcheng District, near Tiananmen Square.
Scenic Spot: A major shopping street with malls, local markets, and the famous Wangfujing Snack Street.
Best Time to Visit: Evening when food vendors are active.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but crowded areas may be difficult for strollers.
Price: Free to explore; food prices vary.
Travel Tip: Evening is the best time to visit when the snack vendors are out, and the area is lively.
10. Peking Opera at the Liyuan Theatre
The Peking Opera is a traditional form of Chinese theater that combines music, vocal performance, mime, dance, and acrobatics.
Location: Xicheng District, Beijing.
Scenic Spot: A traditional Chinese theater experience with elaborate costumes and dramatic performances.
Best Time to Visit: Evening performances.
Suitable for All Ages: Best for adults and older children interested in culture.
Price: €15-€50 depending on seating.
Travel Tip: You may not understand the language, but the spectacle of color and costume, as well as the expressive performances, transcend the language barrier.
11. Lama Temple (Yonghe Temple)
This is one of the largest and most important Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in the world. The beautiful architecture and the peaceful atmosphere provide a spiritual retreat in the city.
Location: Dongcheng District, near Yonghegong Station.
Scenic Spot: A famous Tibetan Buddhist temple with a towering Buddha statue.
Best Time to Visit: Morning for a quieter experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but respectful behavior is required as it’s an active place of worship.
Price: €3.80 for entrance.
Travel Tip: Be respectful as it’s an active place of worship, and visit during off-peak times to avoid the crowds.
12. The National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA)
Affectionately known as “The Giant Egg,” this titanium and glass dome is a stunning piece of contemporary architecture set in the middle of a lake. It’s a cultural hub that hosts a range of performances from opera to dance and music from China and around the world.
Location: Xicheng District, Beijing, near Tiananmen West Station.
Scenic Spot: A striking titanium and glass dome, also known as “The Giant Egg,” surrounded by an artificial lake.
Best Time to Visit: Evening for performances or sunset for the best exterior views.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, though performances may be more enjoyable for adults and older children.
Price: €5 for a self-guided tour; performance tickets range from €15-€100+ depending on the show.
Travel Tip: Even if you’re not attending a performance, it’s worth visiting for the architecture alone. You can walk around the exterior or take a tour inside.
13. The Ming Tombs
Located about 50 kilometers northwest of Beijing, the Ming Tombs are a collection of mausoleums built by the emperors of the Ming dynasty. The site is one of the most important imperial burial grounds, and only a few of the tombs are open to the public.
Location: 50 km northwest of Beijing.
Scenic Spot: Imperial tombs of Ming Dynasty emperors, with impressive statues along the Spirit Way.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for comfortable weather.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with easy walking paths.
Price: €5-€7.50 depending on the specific tomb visited.
Travel Tip: The Spirit Way, leading to the tombs, is lined with impressive statues and is particularly worth a walk.
14. Jingshan Park
A beautiful royal landscape garden, Jingshan Park offers the best panoramic view of the Forbidden City and central Beijing from the top of its artificial hill, which was constructed from soil excavated to form the moats of the Forbidden City and nearby canals.
Location: Just north of the Forbidden City.
Scenic Spot: Offers the best panoramic view of Beijing and the Forbidden City from its hilltop pavilion.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for sunset views.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but there is an uphill walk.
Price: €0.60 for entrance.
Travel Tip: Visit near sunset on a clear day for a breathtaking view of the Forbidden City against the backdrop of the setting sun.
15. Dashilan Street
One of the oldest and most famous commercial streets in Beijing, Dashilan boasts over 500 years of history. Here, you’ll find a range of time-honored shops and traditional Chinese medicine stores.
Location: Xicheng District, Beijing, near Qianmen Station.
Scenic Spot: One of Beijing’s oldest commercial streets, featuring historic shops, tea houses, silk stores, and traditional Chinese medicine shops.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon or evening for a lively atmosphere and illuminated storefronts.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, though some areas may be crowded.
Price: Free to explore; shopping and dining costs vary.
Travel Tip: Be sure to try some authentic local snacks and visit the silk and tea shops that have been there for centuries.
16. The CCTV Headquarters
This futuristic building, designed by architects Rem Koolhaas and Ole Scheeren, is a marvel of modern architecture. While it’s not open to the public, the exterior alone is worth a visit.
Location: Chaoyang District, Beijing, near Jintaixizhao Station.
Scenic Spot: A futuristic skyscraper designed by renowned architects, featuring a distinctive loop shape.
Best Time to Visit: Evening for the best views when the building is illuminated.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, though the building is not open for public tours.
Price: Free to view from the outside.
Travel Tip: The best time to photograph the building is at dusk when the setting sun reflects off the glass.
17. 798 Art Zone (Dashanzi Art District)
Once a complex of military factories, the 798 Art Zone has been transformed into a leading concentration of contemporary art galleries, artist studios, and cultural institutions. It’s a hip area with a unique blend of industrial architecture and modern art.
Location: Dashanzi, northeast Beijing.
Scenic Spot: A trendy district filled with contemporary art galleries, street murals, and cafes.
Best Time to Visit: Afternoon when most galleries are open.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, great for art lovers.
Price: Free to explore; some galleries charge entrance fees.
Travel Tip: Check the exhibition schedule before you go as there might be interesting gallery openings or art events.
18. Beihai Park
One of the oldest, largest, and best-preserved ancient imperial gardens in China, Beihai Park is a masterpiece of Chinese garden design. The park includes a lake, several historical buildings, and is rich in history and culture.
Location: Near the Forbidden City.
Scenic Spot: A historic imperial garden with a beautiful lake and pavilions.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for the best weather.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with walking paths and boat rentals available.
Price: €1.90 for entrance.
Travel Tip: Rent a boat to paddle around the lake, or enjoy a leisurely stroll to take in the intricate details of the park’s beautiful temples and pavilions.
19. Sanlitun
A vibrant area known for its shopping, dining, and nightlife, Sanlitun is a must-visit for those looking to experience Beijing’s more cosmopolitan side.
Location: Chaoyang District, east Beijing.
Scenic Spot: A lively area known for shopping, restaurants, and nightlife.
Best Time to Visit: Evening for the best atmosphere.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes during the day, but nightlife is more adult-oriented.
Price: Free to explore.
Travel Tip: Visit Sanlitun Taikoo Li, an open-plan shopping area with a mix of high-end and street fashion, and don’t miss the Sanlitun Bar Street for a cocktail or craft beer in the evening.
20. Prince Gong’s Mansion
The largest of all princely mansions in Beijing, Prince Gong’s Mansion is known for its beautiful gardens and well-preserved traditional Chinese architecture. It offers insight into the lifestyle of Qing Dynasty nobility.
Location: Xicheng District, Beijing, near Beihai North Station.
Scenic Spot: A well-preserved Qing Dynasty mansion with traditional courtyards, gardens, and historical artifacts.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for comfortable weather and fewer crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, though some areas have uneven stone pathways.
Price: €6.30 for entrance.
Travel Tip: Catch a traditional Chinese music performance if possible when you visit, as it really enhances the atmosphere.
21. Panjiayuan Antique Market
The Panjiayuan Market is a treasure trove for antique lovers, with hundreds of stalls selling everything from ceramics and jade to cultural revolution memorabilia.
Location: Chaoyang District, south Beijing.
Scenic Spot: A massive market selling antiques, crafts, and souvenirs.
Best Time to Visit: Weekends for the largest selection.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but the market can be crowded.
Price: Free to enter; prices for goods vary.
Travel Tip: The market is at its best on the weekends; go early to avoid the crowds and have the first pick of the day’s offerings.
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Beijing, China: Ratings
Kid-Friendly Activities in Beijing: 8/10 – Beijing offers a wide range of family-friendly attractions, including the Beijing Zoo, the Beijing Aquarium, and the China Science and Technology Museum. Popular parks like Beihai Park and the Summer Palace provide ample space for children to play and explore.
Nightlife in Beijing: 8/10 – Beijing has a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of options including bars, nightclubs, and live music venues. Areas like Sanlitun and Houhai are known for their bustling nightlife. The city also offers evening cultural shows such as Peking Opera and acrobatics performances.
Sport in Beijing: 9/10 – Beijing provides numerous opportunities for sports enthusiasts, with facilities for popular sports like basketball, football, and badminton. The city’s Olympic venues, such as the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube, offer activities for both spectators and participants. Outdoor activities include hiking on the Great Wall and in nearby mountains.
Culture and Attractions in Beijing: 10/10 – Beijing is rich in cultural and historical attractions, including the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, and the Great Wall. The city is home to numerous museums, such as the National Museum of China, and hosts various cultural festivals and events throughout the year.
Gastronomy in Beijing: 9/10 – The culinary scene in Beijing is diverse, featuring traditional Beijing cuisine like Peking duck and zhajiangmian, as well as a wide range of regional Chinese and international dishes. The city’s street food and night markets offer an authentic and flavorful dining experience.
Shopping in Beijing: 9/10 – Beijing is a shopper’s paradise with a mix of modern malls like Wangfujing and traditional markets such as Panjiayuan Antique Market and Silk Street. The city offers a wide range of products, from luxury brands to unique local crafts and souvenirs.
Prices in Beijing: 7/10 – Beijing is moderately priced, with options for different budgets. While some areas and services can be expensive, there are plenty of affordable choices for accommodation, dining, and shopping.
Average price for a hotel night: $120
Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: $10
Price of a beer: $4
Price of a coffee: $3
Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in Beijing, China
For those looking to explore beyond the ancient walls and modern skyscrapers of Beijing, top day trips near Beijing unlock the secrets of China’s imperial past and natural wonders. The Great Wall at Mutianyu, the tranquil Summer Palace, and the ancient village of Cuandixia are all within reach, offering a break from the city’s frenetic pace.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Beijing accommodations range from opulent hotels that reflect China’s rapid modernization to traditional courtyard homes that offer a glimpse into the city’s storied past, ensuring a memorable stay for every visitor.
FAQ About Things to Do in Beijing, China
What are the must-see historical sites in Beijing?
The Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven are among the must-see historical sites. They offer a glimpse into China’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Is a visit to the Summer Palace worth it?
Yes, the Summer Palace is a masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design. The natural landscape of hills and open water is combined with artificial features like pavilions, halls, palaces, temples, and bridges to form a harmonious ensemble of outstanding aesthetic value.
Can I explore Beijing’s hutongs?
Absolutely, exploring the hutongs, or old alleyways, is a great way to experience the local lifestyle and see traditional Beijing architecture. You can take a rickshaw tour or simply wander on foot.
Are there any food tours available in Beijing?
Beijing offers a variety of food tours that allow you to sample traditional dishes like Peking duck, jianbing, and various dumplings. These tours can take you to popular eateries and hidden food gems.
What modern attractions can I find in Beijing?
Modern attractions in Beijing include the 798 Art Zone, the National Centre for the Performing Arts, and the CCTV Headquarters. These sites offer a look into the contemporary cultural and architectural advancements of the city.
Is there a place to enjoy nature in Beijing?
Yes, the Fragrant Hills Park is a great place to enjoy nature. Especially in autumn, the red smoke tree leaves are a beautiful sight to see. The park also offers a cable car ride to the top for panoramic views of the city.
Where can I get the best panoramic views of Beijing?
For the best panoramic views, head to the top of Jingshan Park. It’s located just north of the Forbidden City, and from the pavilion at the top of the hill, you can see the full layout of the Forbidden City and much of central Beijing.
What cultural experiences should I not miss in Beijing?
Don’t miss experiencing a Peking Opera show, attending a tea ceremony, or participating in a Tai Chi session in one of Beijing’s parks. These cultural experiences provide a deeper understanding of Chinese traditions and arts.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beijing
https://www.getyourguide.com/beijing-l186/
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