Top 10 Things to Do in Beijing
Beijing, China's capital, is well-known for its profound history. The Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square mark the heart of the city, while the Great Wall stretches across the mountains just outside. Try authentic Peking duck, shop at markets like Wangfujing, and experience the timeless magic of Peking Opera. There are more than you can imagine.
This guide covers the key places and experiences to help you create a clear and simple plan for your trip in Beijing.
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Top 1: Hike the Legendary Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China was originally built for defense, starting as early as the 7th century BC. Walk along the stone paths and feel like stepping into China's enduring history. The wind whistles through gaps in the wall. Miles of stone twist across the rugged mountains into the horizon...
Credit: from Max Hou, Unsplash | Explore the historic heights of the Badaling Great Wall
The Great Wall of China | |
✅ Opening Hours | 07:30-16:00 (it may vary due to the time of the year) |
📍 Location | Exit 58 of G6 Beijing-Lhasa Expressway, Yanqing District, Beijing |
💰 Ticket Price | From $4.91 |
- Best time to visit: Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November)
- How to get there: Accessible by bus or car from Beijing
- Is it family-friendly: Yes! There are well-maintained paths, gentle slopes in many areas, and facilities like rest stops and cable cars.
Tips: Wear sturdy shoes for hiking and bring plenty of water.
4.7/5
12246 reviews
5/5
What a wonderful tour of the Great Wall of China! Despite the language barrier, it didn't hinder our time at all. Everything was wonderful, we really enjoyed it!
4/5
Badaling feels completely modern. The rocks look new. We wanted to go to Mutianyu, but our reservation was cancelled the evening before departure. So we started looking for another one. Thankfully, there were spots available at Badaling and we could book it literally a couple of hours in advance! The guide was fantastic, and we loved everything. The only thing we didn't choose was a different route from everyone else: we didn't take the cable car. The hiking conditions were poor that day, and there was no visibility. We decided to just walk. We passed about four towers and then returned. The photos weren't the best, but it was still nice to touch history ❤️.
4/5
No waiting at the counter. Very convenient service.
5/5
It's just wow. It's tiring, but worth it.
4/5
Definitely worth it.
Top 2: Wander the Exquisite Forbidden City
The Forbidden City was home to Chinese emperors for nearly 500 years. It offers a vivid glimpse into China's royal past. Stepping into the Forbidden City feels like entering a different era, with red walls, golden rooftops, and intricate carvings.
Credit: from wong zihoo, Unsplash | Step into the majestic Forbidden City
The Forbidden City (The Palace Museum) | |
✅Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Apr 1-Oct 31 every year - Tuesday-Sunday: 08:30-17:00 Nov 1–Mar 31 (next year), every year - Tuesday-Sunday: 8:30 AM-4:30 PM |
📍Location | No. 4, Jingshanqian Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing |
💰 Ticket Price | From $8.42 |
- Best time to visit: Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November)
- How to get there: Easily accessible by subway (at Tiananmen East Station)
- Is it family-friendly: Yes! It's nice for all ages with wide courtyards, spacious walkways, and plenty of open areas to explore.
Tips: Try to avoid visiting on Chinese public holidays. Recommended tour in 3-4 hours.
4.9/5
47578 reviews
4/5
The area is very large, we walked all day and still didn’t get through it all, I wouldn’t go there a second time.
5/5
It's worth visiting at least once, as it's iconic. It's best to do it in mid-autumn because of the long lines; summer can be hot and long. We were there in early September, and we had to wait in line for two and a half hours on a weekday; on a weekend, it would have been even longer, as it was very hot, over 30°C outside. If you're visiting, bring umbrellas and water. But it's worth it: the beautiful buildings with centuries of history. There are plenty of spots for beautiful photos, but you'll have to be prepared for a lot of people in the frame besides you. Of course, you can try to get the photo taken without being the only one in the frame. I definitely recommend buying printed ice cream there; firstly, it's delicious and secondly, it's very beautiful. Of course, it's a good idea to bring something to eat, as buying food there is expensive and you're unlikely to eat it.
5/5
Director Tian's detailed explanation
5/5
I would recommend this tour to anyone who want to see the forbidden city but also learn a lot of information about the its history. Our tour guide Cora was very full of information and excellent at explaining it. It was a great experience!!
4/5
The place itself was nice, but it was completely packed, way too crowded. I'd pay double or triple for a tour that was faster. We arrived at 1:20 PM to be there early because it was supposed to start at 1:30 PM, but the tour didn't begin until 2:30 PM. That, with the sun shining, waiting for them to do the paperwork checks made for a rather poor experience. The tour itself was good, and the guide was great, but we got really tired of waiting. Very tired.
Top 3: Taste the Crispy & Tender Peking Duck at Quanjude
Try this iconic Beijing dish at Quanjude, which has been operating since 1864. Get your first bite of Peking duck, which is pure magic. Crispy, golden skin with sweet hoisin sauce gives way to tender, juicy meat, wrapped in a thin pancake with cucumber and spring onions.
Credit: from KKday, Unsplash | Bite into Quanjude’s crispy, juicy Peking duck
Quanjude | |
✅Opening Hours | Qianmen main branch: 11:00-14:30; 16:30-21:00 Hepingmen branch: 11:00-14:00; 16:30-20:30 |
📍Location | Quanjude (main branch) on Qianmen Street or the Hepingmen branch. |
💰 Cost | ¥200-¥300 per duck, depending on the portion. (about S$36-55) |
Tip: Evenings are the best time for a relaxed and indulgent meal; order a whole duck for the full experience; don't forget to ask for extra pancakes (they go quickly!)
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833961 booked
Top 4: Discover the Hidden Alleys on a Quaint Hutong Tour
Hutong is Beijing's soul, far from the tourist crowds. These ancient alleyways showcase centuries-old architecture and local culture. Cobblestone paths wind past traditional courtyard homes, wooden doors, and brick walls. You can hear children laughing, see the clink of street vendors, and the scent of sizzling dumplings drifting through the valleys...
Credit: from Zhang kaiyv, Unsplash | Locals are taking a walk in the Hutong valleys
Hutong Tour | |
📍 Where to start | Begin at the Bell and Drum Towers, where many guided tours kick off. |
💰 Cost | ¥100-¥200 for a guided tour. (about S$18-36) |
Tip: You can go for a Hutong tour in the early morning or late afternoon for better vibes; wear comfortable shoes as the paths can be uneven; bring cash for small purchases from local artisans or street vendors.
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![Mutianyu Great Wall Day Trip [ZANBUS - Daily departures from 8:00 AM to 11:45 AM]](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images/0356012000sgcf58vC123_C_568_320.jpg)
![Beijing Mutianyu Great Wall 1-Day Tour [VIP Private Charter ◆ Door-to-Door Pickup/Includes Admission Ticket & No Shopping]](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images//0580u12000mzn0c4q2CAB_C_568_320.jpg)
![Mutianyu Great Wall 1-day tour [includes chairlift & toboggan tickets/optional private tour transfer/no shopping]](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images/0351212000t0mlknxB6B5_C_568_320.jpg)
Top 5: Take in Imperial Palace Views at Scenic Jingshan Park
Jingshan Park is a historic imperial garden built atop an artificial hill. You can observe the views of the Forbidden City's rooftops against the modern skyline. The park is surrounded by lush greenery and rustling leaves. It's considered the best vantage point to admire Beijing's beauty!
Enjoy the golden scene of Jingshan Park
Jingshan Park | |
✅Opening Hours | Apr 1-Oct 31 every year: 06:00-21:00 Nov 1–Mar 31 (next year), every year: 06:30-20:00(Latest entry time:19:30) |
📍Location | Jingshan Park, Jingshan Qianjie, Xicheng District, Beijing |
💰 Ticket Price | ¥2 for entrance. (about S$0.36) |
- Best time to visit: Late afternoon for golden sunset views; early morning for peaceful moments & fresh air
- How to get there: Take the subway to the Tiananmen East Station, then walk about 10 minutes to the park.
Tip: Bring a camera to capture the stunning views
4.7/5
1308 reviews5/5
The perfect place to get a feel for the Forbidden City. It's worth walking up and down the stairs.
5/5
Such a wonderful family experience at Jingshan Park! The kids had so much fun exploring, and we absolutely loved the beautiful gardens and amazing views of Beijing and the Forbidden City.
5/5
Everything is cool!
5/5
Good but a little small, tickets can also be bought on the spot for less.
5/5
I really liked it, I recommend it
Top 6: Hang Out in Sanlitun for Beijing’s Nightlife
Sanlitun is a place where you can enjoy shopping and dining in Beijing. The streets overflow with international restaurants. Music pulses from clubs. Grab a drink and dive into the cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Catch the nightlife vibes at Sanlitun
Sanlitun | |
📍 Where to find it | Sanlitun, Chaoyang District, Beijing. |
💰 Cost | ¥50-¥200 for drinks, with some clubs having cover charges (usually ¥100-¥150). |
Tips: Visit on weekends from 9 pm to midnight for the best vibe. If you're looking for a more laid-back vibe, head to the quieter cafes instead.
Top 7: Chill by the Water at Houhai Park Bars
Houhai Park is part of Beijing's historic Shichahai area. It's a cluster of three connected lakes, Houhai, Qianhai, and Xihai, dating back to the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368). As dusk settles over it, the scent of grilled skewers drifts through the narrow hutong streets. Acoustic tunes float from bars along the shore...
Chill out at the jazz bars in Houhai Park after dinner in Beijing
Houhai Park Bars | |
📍 Where to find it | Houhai Lake, near the Shichahai area, Xicheng District. |
💰 Cost | ¥50-¥150 (about US$7-20) for drinks, depending on the bar. Some venues may have a cover charge for live performances. |
Tips: Expect cocktails, beer, wine, snacks & small plates at night. Savor your drink with lakeside charm.
4.7/5
79 reviews
5/5
Houhai Park is not a sea, but a beautiful lake park where visitors can go boating on the lake and quietly enjoy the beautiful scenery. The swaying willows on both sides and the azure blue water are refreshing.
5/5
Houhai is not actually a sea, but a huge lake park. When you visit, you can choose to go boating on the lake or take a rickshaw around the lake.
5/5
nice place to walk around and see some nice huntings. some nice places to eat
4/5
amazing place! you can find cafes around the area and rent a boat! there are motor boats and pedals but the availability is according to how much people is renting it. totally recommended!
5/5
Very comfortable
A good place to watch the sunset
There are many delicious restaurants nearby
Top 8: Experience the Timeless Magic of Peking Opera
Peking Opera originated from the Qing Dynasty. It's famous for the bold makeup, colorful costumes, and powerful singing. Even if you don't understand Chinese, it's quite enjoyable. You can fully enjoy its acrobatics and music. Many theaters offer English subtitles, tea service, and short highlight shows, so you can follow the plot and enjoy this traditional art up close!
Enjoy an incredible feast of traditional art in Beijing
Peking Opera | |
📍Where to start | The famous Mei Lanfang Theater or the Beijing Opera House. |
💰 Cost | Tickets typically range from ¥100 to ¥ 500 (about $14-70 USD) depending on seating. |
Tips: It's ideal for kids & adults, both for an authentic cultural experience in Beijing. Arrive early for the best seats!
Top 9: Shop 'Til You Drop at Wangfujing Street
Wangfujing Street is Beijing's go-to place for shopping and dining. You can see neon billboards light up the crowds. There's so much to explore, from small but delicate souvenirs to luxury stores. You can also find designer brands and local markets. It combines fashion and antiques perfectly!
Hang around Wangfujing for a modern delight
Wangfujing | |
📍 Where to find it | Wangfujing Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing. Nearest subway: Wangfujing Station (Line 1). |
💰 Price range | ¥50-¥500 (about US$7-67) for souvenirs and snacks; luxury goods may go over ¥1000 (about US$135). |
Tips: You can bargain at smaller stalls, but expect fixed prices in high-end stores. Do not miss the street food for a taste of local Beijing treats!
4.7/5
196 reviews
5/5
Watching fireworks at night, one after another, the fireworks exploded in the dark blue sky, red, green, and gold, brightening the entire sky. The exploding sparks slowly fell, like stars falling. Squeezed in the crowd, I looked up. Children laughed and shouted, and adults clapped along. The smoke and smell of fireworks mingled with the air, creating a lively atmosphere. Long afterward, my eyes still shone with a bright light, and my heart was filled with joy.
4/5
So many things to see and explore. 👌🏻
5/5
As a tourist, my experience in Wangfujing can be described as "lively, fun to shop in, and charming." It's bustling with people both day and night. The streets are clean and bright, with shopping malls, time-honored brands, and street food all conveniently located. Strolling along the pedestrian street, you can enjoy the neon lights and street performances while browsing the shops, experiencing both the vibrancy of modern commerce and the charm of old Beijing brands.
What attracted me most was the Wangfujing Snack Street. The sheer variety of Beijing specialties was dazzling. You could find candied hawthorn, tripe, donkey rolls, and kebabs—the taste varied, but the atmosphere was fantastic. Occasionally, you'd see tourists gathered together taking photos and chatting, creating a relaxed and lively atmosphere.
Overall, Wangfujing is a great place to experience the vitality of Beijing. You can eat, buy souvenirs, and feel the typical commercial prosperity of the capital. As a tourist, I think it's well worth a visit.
5/5
It's right in front of the hotel, so I walked there early in the morning and late in the evening. It's beautiful both morning and evening!! If your hotel is nearby, I recommend taking a walk early in the morning when there aren't many people.
4/5
Wangfujing Street is a vibrant blend of tradition and modernity. The pedestrian-friendly avenue boasts upscale boutiques alongside historic shops. The nearby snack street offers exotic treats, adding to the cultural experience.
Top 10: Hunt for Hidden Gems at Panjiayuan Antique Market
If you want a real-life treasure hunt in Beijing, just head to Panjiayuan Antique Market. It's Beijing's largest and most famous antique market for both traditional artifacts & vintage stuff. You can do your bargaining there without any worry! Expect the musty scent of old wood and paper with a historic atmosphere.
Credit: from Eclat Hotels | People are picking their own treasure in Panjiayuan Antique Market
Panjiayuan Antique Market | |
✅Opening Hours | Summer period: Apr 8-Oct 7; Winter period: Oct 8-Apr 7
|
📍 Where to find it | Panjiayuan Market, Chaoyang District, Beijing. Nearest subway: Panjiayuan Station (Line 10). |
💰 Price range | ¥20-¥1000+ (about S$3-181+), depending on the item. Bargaining is a must! |
Tips: The vendors usually quote a higher price; be prepared to haggle! Find your treasure, like art pieces or vintage books that may not be found elsewhere.
Why Beijing Should Be on Your Travel List?
A visit to Beijing offers a unique chance to see the landmarks that shaped China. As China's capital, it's a great place to travel at the top of your bucket list. Beyond history, you're here to enjoy its metropolis with skyscrapers and world-class food. You're always welcome to explore more of it.
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