Beijing - Discovering China

Travelling to Beijing

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Beijing, a pretty good destination in China (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Beijing and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Beijing, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through China, here's everything to know about Beijing for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Beijing

Beijing is the capital city of China, located in the northern part of the country. It is one of the most populous cities in the world, with a population of over 21 million people. It has a rich history dating back over 3,000 years, with many ancient landmarks such as the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven. Beijing is also known for its modern architecture, including the iconic National Stadium (also known as the "Bird's Nest") which was built for the 2008 Summer Olympics. The city is a center of politics and culture in China and is a major transportation hub, with an international airport and several major train stations.

What to visit in Beijing

Here are some of the must-see tourist attractions in Beijing along with some information about each of them: 1. The Great Wall of China: This iconic site is a must-see for anyone visiting Beijing. Portions of the wall within an hour or two of the city tend to be extremely crowded, but are still worth visiting. To get away from the crowds, consider traveling further from the city to sections like Jinshanling or Jiankou.
2. Forbidden City: For over 500 years, the Forbidden City was home to the emperors of China. It is the best-preserved imperial palace in China and allows visitors to glimpse what life was like for the emperors who resided there. 3. Temple of Heaven: This impressive complex of temples and pavilions was built during the Ming Dynasty and served as a place where emperors would come to worship and pray for good harvests. 4. Tiananmen Square: This square is one of the largest public squares in the world and serves as an important site for political and historical events. 5. Summer Palace: This beautiful royal garden features a large lake, hilltop pavilions, and intricately painted corridors. It was once the summer residence for emperors and provides a glimpse into the life of the royal family.
6. Ming Tombs: Located just outside of Beijing, this complex contains the tombs of 13 emperors of the Ming Dynasty. 7. Beihai Park: A beautiful green space in the heart of Beijing with a large lake, pavilions, and temples. 8. Hutongs: These historic alleyways and courtyard homes are a great place to experience local Beijing culture and way of life.
9. National Museum of China: This comprehensive museum dives into China's history, from prehistoric times to the present day. 10. 798 Art District: This modern art district showcases the work of up-and-coming Chinese artists in a variety of mediums. It's a great place to experience a different side of Beijing's vibrant culture.
I hope that helps!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in China, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Beijing.

When to go on holiday to Beijing

The best time to travel to Beijing, China is during the spring and autumn seasons, which are from March to May and from September to November respectively. During these months, the weather is mild and comfortable, and there are fewer crowds compared to the peak tourist season during the summer months. However, it's important to note that weather conditions and air quality in Beijing can be unpredictable, so it's advisable to check weather forecasts and air quality indexes before planning your trip.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Beijing

There are several ways to get to Beijing, China depending on your location and budget. Here are some common options: 1. By plane: Beijing Capital International Airport is the main hub for international flights. Many airlines offer direct flights to Beijing from major cities around the world.
2. By train: If you are travelling within China or from neighbouring countries, you can take a train to Beijing. Beijing Railway Station and Beijing West Railway Station are the major stations in the city.
3. By bus: You can also take a bus from nearby cities or countries. However, this option may not be as comfortable and convenient as taking a train or plane.
4. By car: If you are already in China, driving to Beijing is an option. However, be aware that traffic in the city can be congested and driving may not be recommended for foreigners who are not familiar with the road rules and signs.
Overall, the most common and convenient way to get to Beijing is by plane.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Beijing, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Beijing

Sure, here are some of the typical foods of Beijing and a brief description of each: 1. Peking Roast Duck - A dish that features crispy duck skin and tender meat, traditionally served with thin pancakes, scallions, and sweet bean sauce.
2. Zhajiangmian - Noodles topped with a savory mixture of ground pork or soybean paste, diced vegetables, and sometimes chopped seafood.
3. Jiaozi - Delicious dumplings that can be either steamed or boiled and are filled with various meats, vegetables, or even fruit.
4. Hot pot - A hot pot is a pot of simmering broth that is brought to the table, and diners cook meat, fish, and vegetables in the pot using chopsticks.
5. Gong Bao Ji Ding - A spicy Sichuan-style stir-fry with chicken, peanuts, and chili peppers.
6. Jianbing - A savory crepe-like pancake filled with eggs, scallions, and meicai (a type of pickled vegetable).
7. Roujiamo - Also known as Chinese hamburgers. They are made with steamed bread and stuffed with juicy pork or beef, as well as carrots, cucumbers, and other vegetables.
8. Lu Rou Fan - A delicious bowl of rice topped with braised pork belly, soy sauce, and other aromatic spices.
9. Mongolian Hot Pot - Similar to the regular hot pot, this variation uses a spicier broth, lamb meat, and aromatic spices, including Sichuan peppercorns.
10. Cong You Bing - A Chinese-style scallion pancake that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Often served as a snack or a breakfast dish.
You can find general info about typical foods in China here.

Is Beijing an expensive destination for tourists?

Beijing can be an expensive destination for tourists, but it really depends on your travel style and budget. Accommodation, food, and transportation can be relatively expensive in popular tourist areas, especially in central Beijing. However, there are ways to save money, such as staying in hostels or budget hotels outside the city center, using local transportation, and eating street food or at local restaurants rather than high-end restaurants. Attractions like the Forbidden City and the Great Wall of China can also be quite costly, but there are many other free or low-cost sights to see in Beijing, such as parks and temples. Overall, with some careful planning and budgeting, it's possible to have an enjoyable time in Beijing without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Beijing

In Beijing, there are several areas that are great for finding accommodations depending on your interests and preferences. Here are a few suggestions: 1. Wangfujing: Located in the heart of Beijing, Wangfujing is a bustling shopping district that’s also home to several luxury hotels.
2. Chaoyang: This area is great for those interested in nightlife and dining, with many bars and high-end restaurants.
3. Sanlitun: Another popular nightlife area, Sanlitun is known for its modern architecture, shopping, and entertainment.
4. Houhai: Located near the beautiful Houhai Lake, this area is known for its traditional hutong alleyways, street food, and colorful nightlife.
5. Dongcheng: This is a great location for those interested in sightseeing, as it’s near many of the city’s top tourist attractions, such as the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square.
Ultimately, the best area to stay in Beijing depends on what you want to do and see, and your preferred budget and travel style.
You can check hotel prices at Beijing here:
Booking.com

Is Beijing a safe destination for tourists?

Beijing is considered a relatively safe place for tourists, but precautionary measures should still be taken. Petty theft, like pickpocketing, can occur in busy tourist areas, so it's best to keep a close eye on your belongings. Scams targeting tourists are also possible, so be cautious if someone approaches you offering tours or deals that seem too good to be true. Overall, maintaining a general awareness of your surroundings and using common sense can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Beijing.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in China here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Beijing.

What type of travelers will enjoy Beijing the most?

Beijing has something to offer for all types of travelers. Whether you are a couple, a family, or a group of young people looking for fun, there are plenty of activities and experiences to enjoy in Beijing. Couples can take romantic walks in the Summer Palace, visit the iconic Temple of Heaven or explore the picturesque hutongs (traditional alleys) of Beijing.
Families with children can visit the famous Forbidden City, ride the cable car up to the Great Wall, or go to the Beijing Zoo to see pandas and other animals.
Young people looking for fun can enjoy the nightlife in the Sanlitun area, visit the 798 Art District, or try out Beijing's street food scene.
Overall, Beijing is a great destination for all types of travelers, with a rich history, culture, and modern amenities to explore.

How to get around Beijing

There are several modes of transportation available in Beijing: 1. Subway: The Beijing Subway is operated by Beijing Mass Transit Railway Operation Corp., Ltd. and covers most parts of the city. It has 23 lines and is the fastest way to get around in heavy traffic.
2. Bus: Beijing has a comprehensive bus network covering the entire city. However, the buses may be crowded during peak hours.
3. Taxi: Taxis are widely available in Beijing, and they are a convenient and inexpensive mode of transportation. Just make sure to have the destination written in Chinese characters to avoid miscommunication with the driver.
4. Bicycle: Beijing is a bike-friendly city, and it has many dedicated bike lanes. Bike rentals are available in many areas of the city.
5. Car rental: Renting a car in Beijing is possible, but it can be expensive, and parking can be difficult to find. It's best to hire a driver or use ride-sharing services like Didi.
6. Walking: Beijing is a pedestrian-friendly city, and there are many attractions that can be reached on foot. Just be prepared for heavy traffic and pollution in some areas.

What to see around Beijing

Sure, here are some nice places to visit on a day trip from Beijing: 1. Great Wall of China at Mutianyu - Located about one and a half-hour drive from the city, Mutianyu Great Wall is less crowded and has stunning views.
2. Tianjin - It is a port city approximately an hour away from Beijing, famous for its colonial buildings, cuisine, and the Ancient Culture Street.
3. Summer Palace - One of the most popular day trip destinations, it used to be the summer retreat of the emperors.
4. Ming Tombs - The mausoleums of 13 Ming dynasty emperors are located here, and history lovers would like to visit this place for sure.
5. Temple of Heaven - It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its ancient architecture and stunning gardens.
6. Fragrant Hills Park - An ideal destination for nature lovers, Fragrant Hills Park offers scenic views, hiking trails, and the chance to witness the stunning autumn foliage.
7. Chengde Summer Palace - A little outside of the city, the imperial summer palace of Chengde is worth visiting if you have time. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring vast parks, temples, and palaces. I hope this helps you in planning your day trip from Beijing.
For every travel information about China you can click here.

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