北京 · Capital of the Middle Kingdom
Three thousand years of imperial history, the world's greatest palace complex, the iconic Great Wall, ancient hutong alleyways, and a city that pulses with modern energy — Beijing rewards every kind of traveller.
Showing matches across all 16 districts — names, overviews, highlights, sights, activities and more.
Explore all sixteen districts — click any section to expand overview, history, why go, weather, highlights, activities and map.
Practical tips to help you plan your Beijing visit.
Beijing is served by two major international airports: Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) — one of the world's busiest — in Shunyi district, and the newer Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX) designed by Zaha Hadid, opened 2019.
Direct flights connect Beijing to most major cities worldwide. High-speed rail links the city to Shanghai (~4.5 hrs), Guangzhou (~8 hrs), Xi'an (~4.5 hrs) and all major Chinese cities.
Beijing's metro system (22 lines, 459 stations) is the world's busiest and covers virtually every major attraction. Single journey cards or rechargeable transit cards are available at all stations.
DiDi (China's Uber equivalent) is reliable and cheap. Cycling via shared bikes (Meituan, Hello) is excellent in central areas. Taxis are metered and affordable. Avoid driving — traffic is severe.
Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook and most Western apps are blocked in China. Download a reliable VPN before arriving — this cannot be done inside China. WeChat is essential for payments and communication.
Alipay and WeChat Pay are used everywhere. Many places no longer accept cash. Set up a Chinese payment method or use a travel card that links to these platforms before arrival.
Stay in Dongcheng for maximum access to imperial sights. Xicheng for a quieter, more local feel near Shichahai. Chaoyang (Sanlitun/CBD) for international hotels and nightlife.
Boutique hutong courtyard hotels (四合院 / siheyuan) offer the most authentic Beijing experience — book well in advance. Brands: The Opposite House, The Peninsula, Rosewood, Aman at Summer Palace.
Beijing has a continental monsoon climate with four distinct seasons. Spring (Apr–May): warm and dry, cherry blossoms, ideal. Summer (Jun–Aug): hot (35°C+) and humid, rainy season. Autumn (Sep–Oct): golden and crisp, the best season. Winter (Nov–Mar): cold (-10°C to 2°C), dry, clear skies.
Peking Roast Duck (北京烤鸭) is the essential dish — visit Quanjude or Da Dong. Street food at Wangfujing Snack Street and Ghost Street (簋街) is a must. Jiaozi (dumplings), zhajiangmian (noodles with bean paste), and lüdagun (sweet rice rolls) are Beijing classics.
Baijiu (white spirits) is the traditional tipple; the Beijing craft beer scene is excellent in Sanlitun and Gulou.
Curated links for planning your Beijing trip — official, editorial and community sources.