What to do in Beijing

Activities, attractions and tours

Forbidden City showing a fountain
Forbidden City showing a fountain
Forbidden City showing a square or plaza and heritage architecture
Beijing showing a monument and heritage elements as well as a large group of people
Olympic Park featuring modern architecture
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Top places to visit

1. Forbidden City

The Forbidden City is one of the most awe-inspiring sights in Beijing, and in fact, the whole of China. For hundreds of years, only the royal entourage was allowed to enter through the formidable walls, which is why the complex earned the name “Forbidden City.” Since 1925, its opulent plazas have been open to the public, attracting millions of tourists each year.
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Forbidden City which includes a lake or waterhole, heritage architecture and a river or creek

2. Wangfujing Street

Wangfujing Street has been host to commercial activities in Beijing for many centuries. Today, it’s very popular with shoppers and tourists who flock here in search of bargains and unique clothing. This busy commercial thoroughfare has benches, bars, restaurants and cafés, all offering plenty of rest stops.
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Wangfujing Street

3. Tiananmen Square

It’s the history, more so than the architecture, behind Tiananmen Square that has brought it into the international spotlight. This public square is surrounded by Beijing’s most famous attractions, a sight you can’t miss if you are in Beijing.
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Tiananmen Square

4. Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China Juyongguan is the closest part of these ancient fortifications to Beijing. This part, built between 770 B.C. and 221 B.C., is one of the principle mountain passes that the vast wall goes through and is called the Juyongguan Pass. Tour the historic architecture and take in the stunning vistas over the Jundu and Taihang mountains and valley.
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Great Wall of China which includes night scenes, a monument and heritage elements

5. Summer Palace

The Summer Palace on the shore of Kunming Lake is home to the largest royal garden in China and has many remarkable buildings. Enjoy the lush scenery and architecture and have a picnic on the lawns.
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Summer Palace showing heritage elements

6. Temple of Heaven

Temple of Heaven is bigger than the Forbidden City. It was originally constructed as a ceremonial space for emperors during the 15th century, but has been open to the public since 1918. Nowadays, the site is a gathering point for local musicians, dancers and other performers who practice their martial arts and hobbies here.
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Temple of Heaven which includes a temple or place of worship, religious elements and a city

What to do in Beijing

Popular places to visit

Forbidden City which includes a lake or waterhole, heritage architecture and a river or creek

Forbidden City

This formerly restricted imperial palace complex is now a public museum that shows the splendor of the old China. It is one of Beijing’s most impressive sites.

Forbidden City
Wangfujing Street showing a city and street scenes

Wangfujing Street

Find the latest fashion or cheap souvenirs and sample local cuisine in this bustling pedestrian-only street, one of the city’s most popular shopping strips.

Wangfujing Street
Close-up of a stone wall, Great Wall Of China, China

Great Wall of China

After visiting Great Wall of China, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Huairou. Amble around the area's parks or visit its monuments.

Great Wall of China
Tiananmen Square

Tiananmen Square

One of the most famous squares in the world, this spot is the beating heart of Beijing and has always been the site of mass protests and national celebrations.

Tiananmen Square
Great Wall of China which includes night scenes, a monument and heritage elements

Great Wall of China

See terracotta warriors, ancient temples and Ming Dynasty architecture at the Juyongguan section of one of the most spectacular tourist attractions in the world.

Great Wall of China
Sanlitun landmark office building - SOHO office; Shutterstock ID 472398427; PO: Hcom Destination Content neighborhoods; Client: Hotels.com; Other: Hcom brand budge

Sanlitun Road

During your trip to Beijing, you can do some window-shopping at Sanlitun Road. While in this walkable area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

Sanlitun Road
Summer Palace showing heritage elements

Summer Palace

This idyllic public park was once the summer retreat of the Qing Dynasty. It houses the iconic Boat of Purity and Ease.

Summer Palace
Temple of Heaven which includes a temple or place of worship, religious elements and a city

Temple of Heaven

Behind a high wall stands an ancient building once used in sacrifices. This huge historical place of worship is a quiet oasis in busy Beijing.

Temple of Heaven
Tsinghua university main courtyard

Tsinghua University

Explore the campus of Tsinghua University during your trip to Beijing. Visit the shops and temples in this culturally rich area.

Tsinghua University

Explore areas of Beijing

Temple of Heaven showing heritage architecture, religious elements and a temple or place of worship

Downtown Beijing

Historical sites, museums and art galleries highlight some notable features of Downtown Beijing. Make a stop by Peninsula Beijing Shopping Arcade or Wangfujing Paleolithic Museum while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Jinyu Hutong Station or Dengshikou Station to get around town.

Downtown Beijing
Famous Qianmen pedestrian street south from Tiananmen Square in Beijing, China

Wangfujing Shopping Area

Historical sites, art galleries and museums highlight some notable features of Wangfujing Shopping Area. Make a stop by Wangfujing Street or Peninsula Beijing Shopping Arcade while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Dengshikou Station or Dongsi Station to get around town.

Wangfujing Shopping Area
Dongcheng - Wangfujing

Dongcheng

4.5/5(111 area reviews)

Explore the eclectic commercial street and its enormous mall amid the fascinating sights in the heart of Beijing’s historic center.

Dongcheng
CCTV Headquarters building is situated in the city centre of Beijing. One of the most amazing architectural creations I've ever seen in my life. It's a massive 200m something high structure. As I heard from the locals, visitors are not allowed inside.

Chaoyang

Museums, art galleries and cocktail bars highlight some notable features of Chaoyang. Make a stop by The Place or Workers Stadium while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Dongdaqiao Station or Chaoyangmen Station to get around town.

Chaoyang
Summer Palace featuring heritage elements and a river or creek

Haidian

3.5/5(8 area reviews)

Haidian is well liked for its museums and monuments. If you're hoping to get in some sightseeing, Summer Palace and Fragrant Hills Park are top spots, and you can jump on the metro at Xibeiwang Station or Malianwa Station to get around.

Haidian
Set in Beijing and taken on a clear April night

Dongdan

Visitors to Dongdan love its popular shops, and you can check out Wangfujing Paleolithic Museum and Oriental Plaza. If you want to see more in the area, you can get around town on the metro at Dengshikou Station.

Dongdan

Day trip destinations from Beijing

Haihe Cultural Square featuring general coastal views, central business district and a city

Tianjin

Jinshanling Great Wall

Miyun

Great Wall of China which includes a monument and heritage elements

Yanqing

Dong Hua Men Night Market

Langfang

The night view of Shangying Bridge in Tongzhou, Beijing, China lights up the city at night

Tongzhou

Mentougou

Mentougou

Great Wall in the morning with sunrise and colorful sky in Beijing, China., Shutterstock ID 144643175, Purchase Order: -

Huairou

Great Wall of China which includes a monument and heritage elements

Badalingzhen

Frequently asked questions

Is Beijing worth visiting?
Offering a blend of culture and history, there are plenty of things to do in Beijing. While you're here, head to Wangfujing Street, a leading attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Beijing?
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Wangfujing Street and Forbidden City. Then, tour other areas of Beijing for local restaurants and a little retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Beijing?
The top tourist attraction in Beijing is Wangfujing Street, so don't forget to add it to your sightseeing agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Beijing?
Three days will give you time to check out many city sights, including Wangfujing Street, Forbidden City and The Palace Museum. The average stay in Beijing is two days. If you have the time to extend your escape, Daxing isn't far away.
Is Beijing a walkable city?
With vibrant neighbourhoods and leading attractions within walking distance of the city centre, Beijing is a good destination to experience on foot. Enjoy wandering between Wangfujing Street and Forbidden City. Then take a stroll around Dongcheng, located 3 kilometers from the centre, and Wangfujing Shopping Area, which is roughly 3 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Beijing with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with young explorers or adventure-seeking teens, an itinerary filled with cool activities makes a big difference. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Beijing with kids.

What to do in Beijing for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or thrill seeker, there's no shortage of things to do in Beijing for adults including Sanlitun Road and Qianmen Street.
Are there free things to do in Beijing?
One of the simplest ways to discover free things to do in Beijing is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on interesting neighbourhoods, parks and other top attractions you can enjoy without opening your wallet. Wangfujing Street is one spot that doesn't have an admission fee.