Beijing 北京
The imperial capital. Palaces, the Great Wall an hour away and hutong lanes where people still play mahjong outside.
What you will see
Our hotels in Beijing
Green, pleasant. Blue, cold. Red, hot. Grey, many rainy days. 1991 to 2020 averages from the China Meteorological Administration.
Extras to add to your trip
Itineraries that include Beijing
Metro and bus in Beijing
Tap your contactless Visa or Mastercard at the gate, on every line since June 2025. The Alipay code works too. Step by step
What to eat in Beijing
Allergies or vegetarian? You have cards in Chinese to show at restaurants in the My trip kit.
Questions about Beijing
How many days do I need in Beijing, and where should I stay?
Four days is ideal, with one full day for the Great Wall. Stay in Dongcheng, near Wangfujing or the hutongs, within walking distance of the Forbidden City and close to the metro.
When is the best time to visit Beijing?
April to May and September to October bring mild days and clearer skies. Summer is hot and rainy, and winter is very cold but dry and quiet. Avoid the first week of October, a national holiday when everything is packed.
How do I get from the airport to the city centre?
Beijing has two airports, so check which one is on your booking. From Capital (PEK), the express train reaches Dongzhimen in about 30 minutes for 25 yuan. From Daxing (PKX), the express runs to Caoqiao in about 20 minutes, then take the metro. A taxi takes 45 to 90 minutes.
How do I book the Forbidden City?
Tickets open 7 days ahead at 8 pm Beijing time and go fast. Book with your passport and bring the original, because it is your ticket. Note that it is closed on Mondays, except on public holidays. Forgetting this is the most common first-timer mistake.
Which section of the Great Wall should I choose?
On a first trip, go to Mutianyu. It is restored but surrounded by forest, quieter than Badaling, and you go up by cable car or chairlift and come down by toboggan, which kids love. Badaling has a fast train but big crowds. Jinshanling is farther out and better for keen walkers.
What should I eat in Beijing? Is there vegetarian food?
Peking duck is a must, plus jiaozi dumplings and zhajiangmian noodles. If you are vegetarian, say "wǒ chī sù" (I eat vegetarian) and ask about the broth, which can contain meat. There are Buddhist vegetarian restaurants near the Lama Temple.
