If you’re wondering is Beijing worth visiting? The answer is absolutely YES. China’s capital is packed with history, culture, food, and iconic landmarks, making it one of the best places to visit in China. From ancient temples to lively shopping streets and unforgettable day trips, these are some of the top places to visit in Beijing for first-time visitors.
One important thing to know before visiting Beijing is that the Forbidden City (Palace Museum) requires advance booking. As one of the most popular tourist attractions in China, tickets often sell out quickly and can only be purchased through the official Palace Museum ticket website.
Unfortunately, we didn’t manage to secure tickets in time, which is why the Forbidden City isn’t included in this guide. That said, Beijing is filled with so many incredible places to visit that missing out on one attraction certainly doesn’t take away from the experience. If you find yourself in the same situation, don’t let it put you off as there’s still plenty to see, do, and explore across the city.
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1. Summer Palace
One of the most beautiful places to see in Beijing, the Summer Palace is a peaceful escape from the busy city. Famous for Kunming Lake and the Long Corridor, it’s an ideal place to stroll, especially in spring or autumn. You can easily reach the Summer Palace by using Beijing’s extensive (and cheap) metro system. Expect traditional Chinese architecture and beautiful scenery but expect to see lots of crowds, especially in the summer months.
This is easily one of the must visit places in Beijing China, and a great spot for photos and relaxed sightseeing.
You can easily book tickets for the Summer palace here and use our code TWOBRITSONTHEGO for a 10% discount!
2. Temple of Heaven
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous places in Beijing, the Temple of Heaven offers a glimpse into imperial China. This was our favourite attraction in Beijing as the site is huge and the architecture is breathtaking. We’d recommend visiting as early as possible to avoid the crowds as you’ll want plenty of time to admire spots such as the Imperial Vault, Echo Wall and Hall of Prayer.
It’s one of the best places to visit in Beijing if you want a glimpse into the history of this incredible city. For the best experience of the Temple of Heaven book a guided tour via Klook.
We actually stayed in a hotel located right next to the Temple of Heaven and we’d highly recommend it as a budget friendly, well located and comfortable option. You can find the details of the hotel here.
3. Mutianyu Great Wall (Day Trip)
No trip to Beijing is complete without seeing the wonder of the world located nearby. If you’re looking for the best places to visit near Beijing, Mutianyu is a clear winner. This section of the wall is less crowded than Badaling, and offers breathtaking views and an optional cable car. You can reach through the wall via a mix of public transport and taxis, however the quickest and easiest way is to book on to a pre-planned tour.
Trip.com is the best place to book day trips and transport in China – you can check out Mutianyu Great Wall excursions here.
4. Dashilan Street
To experience the beating heart of Beijing you’re going to want to add Dashilan Street to your itinerary. It’s a popular street that blends traditional architecture with street food, souvenirs, and historic shops. If you’re wondering where to go in Beijing at night then Dashilan Street is definitely your answer.
5. Hongqiao (Pearl) Market
If shopping is on your list, Hongqiao Market is one of the best places to shop in Beijing. Famous for its pearls, electronics, and endless souvenirs, this huge multi-floor market is a must-visit – and yes, bargaining is expected.
We loved exploring Hongqiao and were genuinely shocked by just how cheap you can find almost anything imaginable. Entire floors are dedicated to electronics, jewellery, clothing, accessories, and more, making it easy to lose track of time. It’s one of the most popular places to go in Beijing for travellers looking to pick up gifts, affordable souvenirs, or tech at bargain prices.
What Else to Know Before Visiting Beijing
Beijing was our first destination in China. Even though we’ve now visited multiple times and explored many provinces, we still find that Beijing requires a bit more planning than other areas. It’s a huge city, which means attractions are spread out, hotel prices are higher, and your choice of location and budget can really shape your experience.
What to eat in Beijing
One of Beijing’s most famous dishes is Peking Duck. While exploring the city, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to try it. We recommend seeking out small restaurants down side streets rather than the main tourist areas — the food is just as delicious and much more affordable.
Like the rest of China, Beijing offers excellent food at great prices. Streets like Dashilan are perfect for sampling street food , so you’ll want to dedicate an evening to trying as many dishes as possible.
Where to Stay in Beijing
Choosing the right location matters. If your time is limited, pick a hotel close to at least one or two major sights. Booking in advance is a must, as hotels can get expensive during peak seasons.
Popular areas include:
- Dongcheng – ideal for sightseeing and first-time visitors
- Chaoyang – modern hotels, nightlife, and shopping
- Haidian – good for attractions like the Summer Palace
For booking, we recommend Trip.com, which is widely used in China. Check out hotels in Beijing here.
Best Time to Visit Beijing
The best time to visit Beijing is spring (April–May) or autumn (September–October), when the weather is comfortable and skies are clearer.
We visited in the peak summer season, which was extremely hot. Summer also brings larger crowds at popular sites like the Great Wall and Forbidden City. However, there are perks: summer allows for later opening hours at the Great Wall, so you can experience it in the evening when it’s beautifully lit.
Final Thoughts: Is Beijing Worth Visiting?
With its iconic landmarks, rich culture, delicious food, and easy day trips, Beijing remains one of the top places to visit in China. Whether you have a short stop or a longer itinerary, these highlights give a perfect introduction.
For more help planning your trip, check out our China Travel Tips guide and our detailed Zhangjiajie travel guide if you plan to explore even more of China.
