Beijing, China’s vibrant capital, is a city where ancient history meets modern innovation. With its imperial landmarks, cultural sites, and buzzing districts, it offers a mix of historical grandeur and contemporary charm.

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, this guide covers everything you need to explore Beijing’s top attractions.

Read more: Top Attractions in Leshan, Sichuan

Table of Content

1. Great Wall of China
2. Forbidden City
3. Tiananmen Square
4. Temple of Heaven
5. Summer Palace
6. Ming Dynasty Tombs
7. Beihai Park
8. Jingshan Park
9. 798 Art District
10. Hutongs

Guide to Visiting Beijing: Top Attractions and Travel Tips

Guide to Visiting Beijing: Top Attractions and Travel Tips

Great Wall of China

One of the most legendary landmarks on the planet, the Great Wall of China winds through northern China, showcasing breathtaking landscapes and centuries-old military history. For a quieter experience, visit early in the morning or explore the Mutianyu section instead of Badaling. A cable car or chairlift ride offers a stunning aerial view, adding a unique perspective to your journey along this ancient marvel.

Badaling Section

The Badaling section is the most famous and accessible part of the Great Wall, drawing millions of visitors annually. With its well-preserved stone pathways and imposing watchtowers, it offers a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient China.  

Ideal for first-time visitors, this section is easily reachable from Beijing and features cable cars for added convenience. However, due to its popularity, it tends to be crowded, especially during peak travel seasons.

Address: Yanqing District, Beijing

Opening hours: April to October: 6:30 am – 4:30 pm, November to March: 7:30 am – 4:00 pm

Contact number: +86 10 6912 1235

Ticket price: April to October: ¥40, November to March: ¥35

Mutianyu Section

The Mutianyu section of the Great Wall offers a quieter yet equally breathtaking experience, making it a great alternative to the busier Badaling area. Surrounded by dense forests, this well-preserved stretch features majestic watchtowers and panoramic mountain views.  

Visitors can hike along its scenic trails for a more immersive adventure or opt for a cable car ride to the top. For a unique and thrilling descent, the toboggan ride adds a fun twist to the journey.

Address: Huairou District, Beijing

Opening hours: March to November 15th: 7:30 am – 6:00 pm (Monday – Friday) / 7:30 am – 6:30 pm (Saturday – Sunday), November to March 15th: 8:00 am – 5:30 pm

Contact number: +86 10 6162 6505

Ticket price: ¥45

The Great Wall of China stands as a breathtaking symbol of the country’s ancient defence, stretching across rugged landscapes with stunning panoramic views.

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Forbidden City

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Forbidden City is a masterpiece of imperial architecture that served as the seat of Chinese emperors for nearly five centuries. Spanning over 180 acres, this vast complex boasts 9,000 rooms, each showcasing intricate carvings, magnificent halls, and priceless relics from China’s dynastic past.

Visitors can wander through its expansive courtyards, admire the grandeur of the throne rooms, and delve into centuries of history at the Palace Museum. To manage crowds, daily entries are capped at 80,000, and tickets must be purchased online in advance. Early booking is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons.

Address: 4 Jingshan Front Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing
Opening hours: 8:30 am – 5:00 pm (Closed on Mondays)
Contact number: +86 10 8500 7421
Ticket price: ¥60

The Forbidden City invites visitors to step into centuries of imperial history within its magnificent palace complex, once home to Chinese emperors.

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Tiananmen Square

Tiananmen Square stands as one of the largest and most historically significant public squares in the world. Surrounded by monumental landmarks such as the Great Hall of the People, the National Museum of China, and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong, it serves as the heart of Beijing’s political and cultural landscape.  

At sunrise and sunset, the daily flag-raising ceremony draws crowds, offering a powerful display of national pride. Whether admiring its grand monuments or simply soaking in the atmosphere, a visit to this beautiful square provides a deeper understanding of China’s storied past.

Address: Dongcheng District, Beijing
Opening hours: Open 24 hours
Contact number: +86 10 6309 5745
Ticket price: Free

Tiananmen Square, one of the world’s largest public squares, is surrounded by historic landmarks and holds deep political significance.

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Temple of Heaven

Built during the Ming Dynasty, the Temple of Heaven was where emperors once held grand ceremonies to pray for bountiful harvests. This architectural masterpiece is best known for the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, a striking circular structure crowned with a vibrant blue-tiled roof. Every element of its design reflects ancient cosmology and imperial traditions.  

Beyond its historic halls, the surrounding park comes alive with locals practicing tai chi, playing traditional instruments, and perfecting the art of calligraphy, offering visitors a glimpse into Beijing’s daily rhythm.

Address: 7, Tiantan Inner Dongli, Dongcheng District, Beijing
Opening hours: 6:00 am – 10:00 pm
Contact number: +86 10 6701 2483
Ticket price: ¥10 to ¥34

The Temple of Heaven is a masterpiece of Ming Dynasty architecture, where emperors once prayed for bountiful harvests.

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Summer Palace

Once the summer retreat of China’s imperial family, the Summer Palace is a breathtaking blend of nature and architecture. Pavilions, temples, and bridges surround the serene Kunming Lake, offering a peaceful escape from the city's energy. The iconic Long Corridor, adorned with intricate paintings, stretches along the lakeshore, making for a scenic and immersive walk through history.

For a different perspective, hop on a boat and glide across the water, taking in the palace’s grandeur from afar. A Combo Ticket grants access to hidden gems within the complex, including the elegant Dehe Garden, the towering Buddhist Incense Tower, and the charming Suzhou Street.

Address: 19 Xinjiangongmen Road, Haidian District, Beijing
Opening hours: 6:30 am – 6:00 pm
Contact number: +86 10 6288 1144
Ticket price: ¥30 – ¥60

The Summer Palace offers a serene imperial retreat with grand pavilions, intricate bridges, and the tranquil Kunming Lake.

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Ming Dynasty Tombs

The Ming Tombs, the final resting place of 13 emperors from the Ming Dynasty, offer a fascinating glimpse into China’s imperial burial traditions. The grandest and best-preserved, Changling Tomb, features intricately carved wooden halls and impressive stonework. Visitors can also walk along the Sacred Way, where towering stone statues of guardian figures and mythical creatures create a solemn yet awe-inspiring atmosphere.  

Opening hours and ticket prices may vary depending on the specific tomb and season.

Address: Ming Shisan Ling Area, Changling Town, Changping District, Beijing
Opening hours: 8:00 am – 5:30 pm
Contact number: +86-10-6832-6688
Ticket price: ¥30

The Ming Dynasty Tombs serve as the final resting place of 13 Ming emperors, showcasing ancient burial traditions and grand mausoleums.

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Beihai Park

One of China’s oldest and most scenic imperial gardens, Beihai Park is a tranquil escape in the heart of Beijing. Its vast lake, historic pavilions, and lush landscapes create a serene setting for a leisurely stroll. At its centre stands the iconic White Pagoda, a Tibetan-style stupa offering breathtaking city views. Visitors can rent paddle boats, wander through centuries-old structures, and soak in the park’s timeless charm.

Address: 1 Wenjin Street, Xicheng District, Beijing
Opening hours: 6:30 am – 8:00 pm
Contact number: +86 10 6403 1102
Ticket price: ¥10 – ¥20

Beihai Park provides a scenic lakeside escape, featuring historic temples, lush gardens, and the iconic White Pagoda.

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Jingshan Park

Just north of the Forbidden City, Jingshan Park offers some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Beijing. Its central hill, built from the excavated soil of the Forbidden City's moat, provides the perfect vantage point to watch the sun set over the imperial palace. Beyond the views, the park is a lively retreat where locals gather for traditional dance, music, and tai chi, adding to its timeless charm.

Address: 44 Jingshan West Street, Xicheng District, Beijing
Opening hours: 6:00 am – 9:00 pm
Contact number: +86 10 6403 8098
Ticket price: ¥2 – ¥10

Jingshan Park offers the best panoramic views of Beijing, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful sunset stroll.

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798 Art District

Once an industrial complex, the 798 Art District has transformed into Beijing’s leading creative hub, where contemporary art meets urban culture. With its distinctive Soviet-era factory backdrop, the district is alive with cutting-edge exhibitions, experimental galleries, and vibrant street performances. Whether you're exploring avant-garde installations or unwinding in an eclectic café, this artistic enclave offers a striking contrast to Beijing’s historic charm.

Address: 4 Jiuxianqiao Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing
Opening hours: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Contact number: +86 10 5978 9114
Ticket price: Entrance is free. Selected galleries may charge an entry fee ranging from ¥10 to ¥50.

The 798 Art District is a dynamic creative hub where contemporary art thrives within repurposed industrial architecture. Photo by 798 Art District

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Hutongs

Beijing’s historic hutongs offer a fascinating journey into the city's past. Stroll through Nanluoguxiang, a lively 800-meter alley lined with charming cafés, bars, and boutique shops that blend old-world charm with modern flair.

Venture into Yandaixie Street, a centuries-old commercial hub where traditional craftsmanship meets contemporary culture. Whether on foot or by rickshaw, these narrow lanes provide a captivating glimpse into Beijing’s rich heritage.

Address: Various locations across Beijing
Opening hours: 24 hours
Ticket price: Free

Beijing’s hutongs are historic alleyways where traditional courtyard homes and vibrant local culture come to life.

Beijing is a city where history and modernity coexist effortlessly. From exploring grand imperial landmarks to wandering through serene parks and dynamic art districts, every corner tells a story.  

With its rich cultural heritage, vibrant street life, and world-renowned cuisine, Beijing offers an experience like no other. Take the time to explore beyond the main attractions - you’ll uncover hidden gems that make this city truly unforgettable.