From the iconic Great Wall snaking through rugged landscapes to the awe-inspiring Forbidden City’s imperial grandeur, Beijing boasts a treasure trove of historical wonders. The Chinese capital is where the old meets the new running alongside an exquisite culinary adventure. This dynamic metropolis welcomes you to dive into the city’s rich culture and captivating charm where you can witness traditional opera and Tai Chi in serene parks, experience the city’s cutting-edge architecture and technology whilst also being mesmerised by the breathtaking beauty of Beijing. Beijing is a diverse melting pot of things to do and places to see, a corner of Asia that is simply magnificent.
Visit the Forbidden City
Visiting the Forbidden City is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Beijing taking you on an awe-inspiring journey through China’s imperial history. The palace complex covers nearly 180 acres, features over 9000 rooms and was home to Chinese Emperors for centuries. As you pass through the iconic vermilion gates, you step into a world of intricate architecture, ornate courtyards and timeless beauty. Admire the Hall of Supreme Harmony, explore the tranquil Imperial Garden and discover the Hall of Clocks and Watches. Each structure and artefact tells a story of imperial power and cultural heritage. As you stroll through this UNESCO World Heritage site, you’ll be immersed in the grandeur and mystique of ancient China, making it a must-visit destination in Beijing.
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 8:30am-4:30pm
Price: High season ¥60 and low season ¥40
Enjoy an evening stroll at Simatai Great Wall
Whilst Beijing is close to many sections of the Great Wall of China, Simatai Great Wall is the most unique. Renowned for its stunningly preserved fortifications, it stands out as the only section of the Great Wall open for nighttime exploration. As daylight fades, Simatai transforms into a breathtaking spectacle. The wall is illuminated with ambient lighting, casting a mesmerising glow over the rugged terrain. This ethereal experience allows visitors to explore the Great Wall under the starry night sky and is a unique wall of discovering the Great Wall’s grandeur.
Hours: Simatai Great Wall is open daily 8am-6pm but the Simatai Night Experience is open 6pm-10pm high season and 5:30pm-9:30pm low season.
Price: Free admission but a cable car is required to access which is ¥160 adults and ¥80 children.
Embark on a Beijing foodie tour
You simply haven’t visited Beijing until you have sampled the street food. The city boasts some of the most culinary adventurous and mouth-wateringly delicious snacks and dishes in the world. Embarking on a Beijing foodie tour introduces you to all of the extraordinary gourmet delights the city has to offer. The most famous snack spots can be found on Nanluoguxiang, Ghost Street and Wangfujing Snack Street but some of the best hidden gems are tucked away in the Hutongs. Try rolling donkeys, sugar coated haws and doornail pasties, just a handful of the many Beijing street snacks you should sample. Whether you join an organised tour or go self-guided, you will take your taste buds on a phenomenal journey.
Hours: Varies by operator.
Price: Varies by operator.
Head to The Summer Palace
Nestled on the shores of Kunming Lake, The Summer Palace in Beijing is a serene masterpiece of Chinese architecture and landscape design. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a symphony of gardens, pavilions, bridges and the iconic Longevity Hill. Explore the intricately decorated halls, stroll along the picturesque lakeside promenade and marvel at the marble boat. As the best-preserved imperial garden in the world, The Summer Palace showcases the essence of Chinese culture, blending natural beauty with artistry. Whether you’re admiring lotus blossoms in summer or enjoying a snowy landscape in winter, it’s a year-round treasure inviting you to immerse yourself in imperial history and scenic splendour.
Hours: High season Tuesday to Sunday 6am-8pm and low season Tuesday to Sunday 6:30am-7pm. Best to visit between April and October.
Price: From ¥30.
Explore the National Museum of China
Located in the heart of Beijing, the National Museum of China stands as a symbol of China’s rich history and cultural heritage. This grand institution is a testament to the nation with a colossal collection spanning over 1 million artefacts. Ancient bronzes, magnificent calligraphy, dazzling ceramics and priceless artefacts tell the narrative of the nation through a series of fascinating exhibits. As you wander its halls, embark on a captivating journey through China’s past, experiencing the nation’s remarkable art, history, and culture all under one majestic roof.
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 9am-5:30pm.
Price: Free.
Attend the Beijing Opera
The Beijing Opera is a vibrant and captivating art that has been a cultural treasure of China for centuries. Known for its distinctive makeup, elaborate costumes and mesmerising acrobatics, it tells stories from Chinese history, folklore and mythology. Each performance is a symphony of colour, music and martial arts with actors mastering the four main role types: sheng (male), dan (female), jing (painted face) and chou (clown). The combination of singing, acting and movement ensures an unforgettable cultural immersion.
Hours: Varies by performance.
Price: Varies by performance.
Cycle the Central Axis
Cycling the Central Axis in Beijing is a remarkable journey through the city’s historical and cultural heart. This iconic route follows a straight line from the Forbidden City in the south to the Olympic Park in the north, passing through Tiananmen Square and numerous historic landmarks. As you pedal along this axis, you’ll witness the fusion of ancient and modern Beijing. The route offers breathtaking views of architectural wonders, lush parks and vibrant street life making it a fantastic way to explore the city.
Hours: 24/7
Price: Free but does require cycle hire.
Shop at the Panjiayuan Antique Market
With over 3000 stalls, Panjiayuan Antique Market is the largest and most diverse antique market in the country. Visitors can explore a vast array of items from ancient porcelain and jade to vintage furniture, jewellery and marvellous curiosities. Haggling with friendly vendors is all part of the experience whilst discovering unique souvenirs is a great reminder of your trip. Panjiayuan Antique Market offers a fascinating glimpse into China’s history and craftsmanship allowing you to take home a great memory.
Hours: Daily 8:30am-6pm
Price: Free
Relax at Landiao Lavender Garden
Landiao Lavender Garden, nestled in Beijing’s suburbs, is a picturesque escape reminiscent of the European countryside. This enchanting garden blooms with fragrant lavender fields during the summer months and visitors can stroll through the endless rows of lavender, bask in the sea of purple blooms and enjoy the soothing aroma. The garden’s charming layout features winding pathways, rustic cottages and serene ponds, making it a perfect spot for romantic walks, photography or picnics.
Hours: May to October 8:30am-6pm. August is the best time to visit.
Price: ¥40.
Discover the Temple of Heaven
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Beijing, the Temple of Heaven is a masterpiece of Chinese imperial architecture and a testament to ancient Chinese religious beliefs. This magnificent complex, dating back to the Ming Dynasty, served as a sacred place for emperors to perform rituals, pray for good harvests and connect heaven and earth. Surrounded by lush gardens and ancient cypress trees, the Temple of Heaven offers a serene experience whilst exploring its historical and spiritual significance in China’s rich cultural tapestry.
Hours: Daily 6am-8pm.
Price: ¥15 high season and ¥10 low season.
From its ancient wonders like the Forbidden City and the Great Wall to its futuristic skyline, Beijing offers a captivating journey through time. The city’s rich culture, culinary delights and iconic landmarks make it a must-visit destination for travellers seeking an immersive Chinese experience.
