Your Complete Guide to Exploring the Best of Beijing
Beijing is a dynamic blend of modernity and tradition, offering a vibrant atmosphere for travellers. The city boasts affordable transportation, a wide variety of street food, and an excellent public transit system. Expect a mix of bustling markets, peaceful parks, and historic neighbourhoods. The local culture is rich and diverse, with many opportunities to interact with friendly locals and experience China’s unique lifestyle. Perfect for an adventurous, immersive experience!
When to visit
Temp
Mar – May
Sep – Nov
–5 – 35°C
23 – 95°F
Beijing’s Top Attractions
Attraction Matrix
Search for attractions that you are interested in based on WindingTravel categories:
WindingTravel Category Examples
Nature & Outdoors: Hiking, National Parks, Beaches, Wildlife Viewing, Camping
Culture & History: Museums, Monuments, Historical Buildings, Cultural Tours, Art Galleries
Food & Drink: Local Cuisine, Food Tours, Markets, Wineries/Breweries, Street Food
Entertainment & Nightlife: Bars, Nightclubs, Live Music, Festivals, Comedy Clubs
Adventure Sports: Surfing, Skydiving, Rafting, Scuba Diving, Climbing
Relaxation & Wellness: Spas, Hot Springs, Yoga Retreats, Meditation Centres, Thermal Baths
Shopping & Markets: Souvenirs, Flea Markets, Shopping Districts, Boutique Shops, Craft Fairs
Unique Experiences: Workshops, Volunteering, Local Festivals, Artisan Crafts, Rooftop Bars
City Highlights: Iconic Landmarks, Famous Streets, Observation Decks, Architectural Tours, Scenic Views
Family-Friendly: Zoos, Aquariums, Theme Parks, Interactive Museums, Educational Centres
Country Highlights: Attractions that are on the WindingTravel Country page that most tourists wont want to miss!
Review further details of each attraction to find out more:
| Great Wall of China | Visit the Great Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stretching thousands of miles across northern China, offering breath-taking views and rich history. |
| Summer Palace | Stroll through the Summer Palace, a beautiful imperial garden with lakes, temples, and pavilions, perfect for relaxation and cultural appreciation. |
| Beihai Park | Relax at Beihai Park, one of the oldest and largest parks in Beijing, featuring a beautiful lake, ancient temples, and plenty of space for picnics. |
| Forbidden City | Explore the Forbidden City, a massive imperial palace that served as the home of Chinese emperors for centuries, featuring stunning architecture. |
| Hutong Tours | Take a tour through Beijing’s historic Hutongs, narrow alleyways lined with traditional courtyard houses, providing a glimpse into old Beijing life. |
| Jingshan Park | Climb Jingshan Hill for panoramic views of the Forbidden City and Beijing skyline, a perfect spot for photography and relaxation. |
| Temple of Heaven | Visit the Temple of Heaven, a stunning religious complex where emperors once prayed for good harvests, surrounded by tranquil gardens. |
| Tiananmen Square | Visit Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest public square, home to key landmarks like the National Museum and Chairman Mao Memorial Hall. |
| Ming Tombs | Explore the Ming Tombs, the burial site of 13 emperors from the Ming Dynasty, featuring grand mausoleums and scenic surroundings. |
| 798 Art District | Visit the 798 Art District, Beijing’s contemporary art hub, known for its galleries, street art, trendy cafes, and creative atmosphere. |
Check the map to plan your route:
Transport
Beijing has an extensive public transport network, including the subway, buses, and taxis, all affordable and efficient. The subway is especially convenient for getting around the city quickly. For ride-hailing, locals use apps like Didi and Shouqi, which are widely available and easy to use for getting around.
Seasonality and Weather
Beijing experiences four distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) are cold and dry, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, around -5°C (23°F). Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, with temperatures reaching 30-35°C (86-95°F). Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10-20°C (50-68°F).
The best time to visit is in spring or autumn when the weather is comfortable, and the city’s parks and outdoor spaces are at their most beautiful.
Where to stay
Wangfujing: Central area with easy access to shopping, dining, and major attractions. Ideal for first-time visitors.
Sanlitun: A vibrant neighbourhood known for its nightlife, bars, and international dining options.
Qianmen: Close to historical sites, offering a more traditional Beijing feel with hutongs and local markets.
Chaoyang: A business district with upscale hotels, shopping malls, and a cosmopolitan vibe, great for those who want modern comforts.
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