China's ancient imperial capital, where millennia of history meet modern ambition in a city of grand
A city where ancient imperial grandeur stands alongside cutting-edge modernity

Beijing, the sprawling capital of the People's Republic of China, is a city of extraordinary contrasts. For over three millennia, it has served as the political and cultural heart of China, home to more emperors than perhaps any other city on Earth. From the magnificent Forbidden City โ the world's largest palace complex โ to the serpentine Great Wall snaking through the northern mountains, Beijing's historical treasures are unmatched in scale and splendor.
Yet Beijing is far from a museum city. Today, it pulses with the energy of a global metropolis. Skyscrapers pierce the sky in the Chaoyang business district, world-class contemporary art fills the galleries of 798 Art Zone, and innovative restaurants reimagine centuries-old culinary traditions. The city's hutong neighborhoods โ narrow alleyways lined with traditional courtyard homes โ offer an intimate glimpse into old Beijing life, where neighbors still gather for mahjong games and street-side dumpling stalls serve recipes passed down through generations.
What makes Beijing truly special is how seamlessly these worlds coexist. In a single day, you can watch the sunrise over the ancient watchtowers of the Forbidden City, wander through a 600-year-old hutong for lunch, then sip craft cocktails on a rooftop bar overlooking the futuristic CCTV Headquarters. The city hosted the 2008 Summer Olympics and the 2022 Winter Games, making it the first city to host both โ a testament to its ambition and global significance. Whether you're a history buff, food lover, art enthusiast, or adventure seeker, Beijing delivers an experience that will reshape your understanding of what a city can be.
From UNESCO World Heritage Sites to vibrant art districts, Beijing's must-see landmarks
Known as the Palace Museum, this vast complex of 980 buildings served as the imperial palace for 24 emperors over 500 years. Its vermilion walls and golden roof...
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A masterpiece of Ming Dynasty architecture where emperors once prayed for good harvests. The circular Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests stands as one of Beijing'...
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The Mutianyu section offers one of the best-preserved stretches of the Great Wall, with stunning watchtowers and lush mountain scenery. Less crowded than Badali...
Learn More โFrom imperial banquet dishes to beloved street snacks, taste the flavors of the capital

The crown jewel of Beijing cuisine โ crispy lacquered skin and succulent meat carved tableside, wrapped in thin pancakes with scallion, cucumber, and sweet bean sauce. A meal that has been perfected over 600 years since the imperial era.
? Try: Quanjude (est. 1864) or DaDong for modern fusion style

Beijing's signature noodle dish โ chewy wheat noodles topped with stir-fried diced pork in rich fermented soybean paste, served with an array of fresh vegetable garnishes. Simple, hearty, and deeply satisfying โ the ultimate Beijing comfort food.
? Try: Haiwanju or any local hole-in-the-wall for authentic taste

Beijing's favorite breakfast street food โ a thin mung bean crepe cooked on a round griddle, brushed with egg, hoisin sauce, and chili, topped with crispy wonton crackers and scallions, then folded into a portable parcel of deliciousness.
? Try: Street carts near any metro station, best before 9am

Iconic Beijing street snack โ hawthorn berries skewered on bamboo sticks and coated in a crackling shell of hardened sugar syrup. The tart fruit inside contrasts perfectly with the sweet candy coating. A winter staple you'll see everywhere from temple fairs to Wangfujing.
? Try: Wangfujing Snack Street or any vendor near major attractions

Traditional Beijing baked wheat cake โ crisp layered pastry often split and stuffed with braised meat. The dough is folded repeatedly to create flaky layers, then baked until golden. A humble but beloved street snack eaten for breakfast or as a quick meal.
? Try: Chen Ji Huo Shao or small breakfast shops in hutong neighborhoods

Classic Beijing sweet โ glutinous rice balls filled with sweet bean paste, sesame, and nuts, then coated in rice flour. Named for their nest-like shape. A delicate court snack that became popular street food, perfect with tea.
? Try: Traditional snack shops near temples or Huguosi area
A curated plan to experience Beijing's imperial heritage, iconic landmarks, and modern culture
Start at the world's largest public square. Arrive early to watch the flag-raising ceremony if desired.
Enter through the Meridian Gate and explore the vast imperial palace. Don't miss the Hall of Supreme Harmony and the Imperial Garden. Allow 3 hours minimum.
Climb Jingshan Hill behind the Forbidden City for a panoramic view of the palace rooftops, then grab lunch at a nearby restaurant.
Explore the stunning circular architecture and watch locals practicing traditional activities in the surrounding park grounds.
Stroll the famous pedestrian street and sample snacks at the night market. Great for Peking Duck dinner at Quanjude.
Leave early to beat the crowds. Take the MuTianyu Express bus from Dongzhimen or hire a private car (1.5 hours). Consider the cable car up and toboggan down for the full experience.
Walk along this beautifully restored section with 23 watchtowers. The hike from Tower 14 to Tower 20 offers the most dramatic views. In autumn, the foliage is spectacular.
Eat at one of the local farmstead restaurants โ try the rainbow trout from the mountain streams or a heartyๅๅฎถ่ (farmhouse meal).
On the return, stop at the Olympic Green to see the Bird's Nest and Water Cube. The area is beautifully lit at dusk and makes for great photos.
Take a rickshaw ride through the ancient alleys, visit a traditional courtyard home, and try your hand at making dumplings with a local family. Stop at the Drum and Bell Towers.
Explore this trendy hutong strip for creative snacks, artisan coffee shops, and boutique stores blending old and new Beijing.
Wander through contemporary galleries, street art installations, and design studios. Visit UCCA for world-class exhibitions. The industrial architecture alone is worth the trip.
End your Beijing adventure in the city's trendiest neighborhood. Choose from rooftop bars, live music venues, or upscale restaurants. The area around Taikoo Li is perfect for people-watching.
"Multi-city itineraries showcasing the best of China, with Beijing as a highlight"

Beijing โ Xi'an โ Shanghai โ Guilin. The ultimate first-timer's route covering imperial history, the Terracotta Warriors, modern Shanghai, and the Li River's karst landscapes.
Beijing โ Nanjing โ Hangzhou โ Luoyang. Trace China's imperial legacy through four ancient capitals, from the Forbidden City to West Lake's poetic shores and Longmen Grottoes.
Beijing deep-dive: Mutianyu, Jinshanling, and Simatai sections of the Great Wall, plus the city's hidden gems. Includes an overnight stay in a restored Great Wall watchtower.
Everything you need to know for a smooth and enjoyable visit
Beijing is served by two major international airports:
Beijing's transport network is extensive and affordable:
Best neighborhoods for different travel styles:
Cultural know-how for a respectful visit:
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