Beijing, the capital of China, is a mix of modern and ancient elements that still prevails today. As the political center of China, the city is also commonly known as Peking.
20 million locals, 16 massive districts and 17,000 square kilometers full of modern to ancient sights that would decorate any Facebook photo album ten times over.
There are so many places to visit in Beijing: historical sights, parks, hills, canyons, museums, art centers, shopping malls and streets…
Beijing is a city that seamlessly blends ancient history with modern marvels. Here are some of the must-do activities for visitors to this exciting metropolis:
Immerse yourself in history:
- The Great Wall: No trip to Beijing would be complete without a visit to the Great Wall of China. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. There are several sections of the wall that you can visit, each with its own unique character. The Mutianyu section is a popular choice for visitors as it offers stunning mountain views and is less crowded than some of the other sections.
- The Forbidden City: The Forbidden City was the imperial palace for 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties. It is a vast complex of palaces, courtyards, and gardens that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be sure to book your tickets in advance, as the Forbidden City is a popular tourist destination.
- Tiananmen Square: Tiananmen Square is the world’s largest city square. It is located in the center of Beijing and is surrounded by important landmarks such as the Forbidden City and the National Museum of China.
- Temple of Heaven: The Temple of Heaven is a complex of religious buildings that was used by the emperors of China to pray for good harvests. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a beautiful example of traditional Chinese architecture.
Explore Beijing’s culture:
- Hutongs: Hutongs are narrow alleys that are lined with traditional Chinese houses. They are a great way to experience the old Beijing way of life. There are many hutongs in Beijing, and some of the most popular ones to visit are Shichahai, Nanluoguxiang, and Yandai Byway.
- Wangfujing Street: Wangfujing Street is a popular pedestrian street that is lined with shops, restaurants, and street vendors. It is a great place to try some traditional Chinese food, do some souvenir shopping, or simply people-watch.
- 798 Art Zone: The 798 Art Zone is a former factory complex that has been converted into an art district. It is home to galleries, studios, and museums that showcase contemporary Chinese art.
- Acrobatics Show: Beijing is famous for its acrobatics shows. These shows are a great way to see some traditional Chinese culture and to be amazed by the skills of the performers.
Enjoy the modern city:
- National Center for the Performing Arts: The National Center for the Performing Arts is a stunning opera house that is located in the center of Beijing. It is a great place to see a performance of traditional Chinese opera, ballet, or symphony music.
- Olympic Park: The Olympic Park was built for the 2008 Summer Olympics. It is now a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The park is home to several iconic landmarks, including the Bird’s Nest Stadium and the Water Cube.
- Universal Beijing Resort: The Universal Beijing Resort is a theme park that is home to rides, shows, and attractions based on popular Universal Studios movies and characters. It is a great place to spend a day with family and friends.
Beijing has received about 3 million foreign visitors every year (in recent pre-COVID years).
Here are some must-have apps for Beijing visitors:
- Translation App: While English is becoming more common in tourist areas, a translation app can be a lifesaver. Waygo is a popular choice that offers offline translation and can translate signs, menus, and even voice recordings.
- Maps: Getting around Beijing can be tricky, so a good map app is essential. Baidu Maps is the most popular option in China and offers real-time navigation, public transportation information, and point-to-point directions.
- Metro App: Beijing has an extensive subway system, and the MetroMan app can help you navigate it with ease. It provides real-time arrival information, route planning, and station maps.
- VPN: Some social media sites and popular apps are blocked in China, so you may want to consider downloading a VPN before you go. This will allow you to access your favorite sites and stay connected with friends and family back home.
Other Helpful Apps:
- Trip.com: This app allows you to book hotels, flights, and tours, as well as access reviews and recommendations for things to do in Beijing.
- Didi: This is the Chinese equivalent of Uber and can be a convenient way to get around the city.
- Ele.me: If you’re tired of exploring and want to have food delivered to your hotel, Ele.me is a popular food delivery app in China.
- WeChat Pay/Alipay: These are the two most popular mobile payment platforms in China. While you may not be able to set up an account yourself, you can ask a friend or family member in China to help you out. Having one of these apps will allow you to pay for things at restaurants, shops, and even street vendors.
Best time to visit Beijing
The best times to visit Beijing are from March to May and from September to October. These temperate seasons provide the best climate, not to mention colorful scenery. In contrast, summer brings sweltering heat, and winter ushers in cold temps and sometimes snow.