Beijing

"Beijing—where imperial palaces meet China’s vibrant cultural legacy."

🇨🇳

Currency

Chinese Yuan (CNY) ¥

Best Time

Sept-Nov

Population

21.5 million

Weather °C

0-26

Beijing is one of the most historically significant cities in the world. With its iconic landmarks, including the Great Wall and Forbidden City, it reflects the grandeur of ancient China while embracing modernity in architecture, cuisine, and culture.
State

Beijing Municipality

Year

~1045 BC

Airport

Beijing Capital Int'l

Cost of Living (10)

$$

Minimal List TL;DR

🛍️
Vintage Market
Panjiayuan Antique Market
A treasure trove of vintage finds
🌙
Night Market
Sanlitun Night Market
An energetic market after sunset
🎁
Local Handicrafts
The Silk Market
A shopper's paradise for textiles
🏯
Historical Site
Temple of Heaven
Stunning park with historical significance
🏞️
Lesser-Known Wall
Jiankou Great Wall
A less crowded section of the Great Wall
📜
Historical Site
The Prince Gong Mansion
Explore imperial history
🌳
Hidden Park
Yuyuantan Park
Perfect for a peaceful retreat
🎨
Art District
798 Art District
A creative space filled with modern art
🕉️
Ancient Temple
Guo Yi Temple
A tranquil escape from the city hustle
🏘️
Historic Alley
Nanluoguxiang
A lively historic neighborhood
🕌
Historic Temple
The Tanzhe Temple
A serene place for reflection and worship
🖼️
Unique Gallery
UCCA Center for Contemporary Art
A hub for modern art and exhibitions
🍜
Local Cuisine
Da Dong Roast Duck
Iconic dish in a stylish setting
🍲
Unique Cuisine
Bian Yi Fang
Traditional flavors in a casual setting
🌮
Local Snack
Wangfujing Snack Street
A must-visit for foodies
🍢
Street Food
Donghuamen Night Market
A culinary adventure after dark
🍸
Hidden Bar
The Hidden Hut
A secret spot for craft cocktails
🍹
Rooftop Bar
The Lounge at the One
Chic lounge with stunning city views
🍺
Craft Brewery
Jing-A Brewing Co.
A hub for craft beer lovers
Artisan Café
Maan Coffee
A haven for coffee enthusiasts

Places to See

🏯
Temple of Heaven
Historical Site
Tiantan Road
4.8
Free
6 AM - 8 PM
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Vibe:
Educational
Tip:
History Buffs
Get To:
Yes, subway access
Stunning park with historical significance
🏞️
Jiankou Great Wall
Lesser-Known Wall
Jiankou Village
4.7
Free
Open all day
Untamed section of the Great Wall
Vibe:
Scenic
Tip:
Nature Enthusiasts
Get To:
Yes, bus access
A less crowded section of the Great Wall
📜
The Prince Gong Mansion
Historical Site
17 Qianhai West Street
4.7
Free
9 AM - 5 PM
Former residence of a royal prince
Vibe:
Cultural
Tip:
History Buffs
Get To:
Yes, bus access
Explore imperial history
🌳
Yuyuantan Park
Hidden Park
Yuyuantan Road
4.6
Free
6 AM - 9 PM
Picturesque park with a beautiful lake
Vibe:
Tranquil
Tip:
Nature Lovers
Get To:
Yes, bus access
Perfect for a peaceful retreat
🎨
798 Art District
Art District
4 Jiuxianqiao Road
4.6
Free
Open all day
Hub for contemporary art and galleries
Vibe:
Vibrant
Tip:
Art Enthusiasts
Get To:
Yes, subway access
A creative space filled with modern art
🕉️
Guo Yi Temple
Ancient Temple
123 Gongti North Road
4.5
Free
8 AM - 5 PM
Lesser-known but beautiful temple complex
Vibe:
Serene
Tip:
Culture Seekers
Get To:
Yes, bus access
A tranquil escape from the city hustle
🏘️
Nanluoguxiang
Historic Alley
Nanluoguxiang
4.5
Free
10 AM - 10 PM
Vibrant hutong with shops and eateries
Vibe:
Charming
Tip:
Culture Seekers
Get To:
Yes, bus access
A lively historic neighborhood
🕌
The Tanzhe Temple
Historic Temple
Tanzhe Temple Road
4.5
Free
8 AM - 5 PM
One of the oldest temples in Beijing
Vibe:
Peaceful
Tip:
History Buffs
Get To:
Yes, bus access
A serene place for reflection and worship
4 Jiuxianqiao Road
4.5
$$
10 AM - 6 PM
Leading contemporary art institution
Vibe:
Artistic
Tip:
Art Lovers
Get To:
Yes, subway access
A hub for modern art and exhibitions
Must Visit:

Chinese New Year, Beijing Opera

The Summer Palace in Beijing features vast imperial gardens and stunning lakes, providing visitors with a tranquil retreat amidst the city’s bustling pace.

Places to Eat

🍜
Da Dong Roast Duck
Local Cuisine
1-2 Dongsi Liutiao Street
4.7
$$$
11 AM - 10 PM
Famous for its Peking duck
Vibe:
Cozy
Get To:
Yes, taxi access
Tip:
Food Lovers
Iconic dish in a stylish setting
🍲
Bian Yi Fang
Unique Cuisine
43 Qianmen Street
4.6
$$
11 AM - 10 PM
Specializes in Beijing-style roast duck
Vibe:
Rustic
Get To:
Yes, subway access
Tip:
Food Adventurers
Traditional flavors in a casual setting
Wangfujing Street
4.5
$$
10 AM - 11 PM
Popular street food destination
Vibe:
Casual
Get To:
Yes, subway access
Tip:
Snack Lovers
A must-visit for foodies
1 Donghuamen Street
4.4
$$
5 PM - 12 AM
Vibrant night market for street eats
Vibe:
Lively
Get To:
Yes, subway access
Tip:
Food Lovers
A culinary adventure after dark
Must Try:

Peking Duck, Jiaozi, Hot Pot

Places to Drink

🍸
The Hidden Hut
Hidden Bar
21 Fangzhuang Road
4.7
$$$
6 PM - 2 AM
Speakeasy-style bar with creative cocktails
Vibe:
Intimate
Get To:
Yes, bus access
Tip:
Night Owls
A secret spot for craft cocktails
🍹
The Lounge at the One
Rooftop Bar
1 Jian Guo Men Wai Avenue
4.6
$$$
5 PM - 1 AM
Rooftop views of the city skyline
Vibe:
Trendy
Get To:
Yes, nearby
Tip:
Nightlife Enthusiasts
Chic lounge with stunning city views
🍺
Jing-A Brewing Co.
Craft Brewery
44 Dongzhimen Inner St.
4.5
$$
12 PM - 10 PM
Local craft brewery with a range of beers
Vibe:
Laid-back
Get To:
Yes, taxi access
Tip:
Beer Enthusiasts
A hub for craft beer lovers
Maan Coffee
Artisan Café
118 Nanluoguxiang
4.5
$$
8 AM - 10 PM
Offers a variety of artisan coffees
Vibe:
Cozy
Get To:
Yes, bus access
Tip:
Coffee Lovers
A haven for coffee enthusiasts
Music / Dance:

Traditional Chinese opera, Peking opera

Places to Network

We'll be updating more places soon!
Key Industries:

Technology, Manufacturing

Beijing

"Step into Beijing, the city where the past and future meet in grand imperial harmony."

Places to Shop

🛍️
Panjiayuan Antique Market
Vintage Market
1 Panjiayuan Road
4.6
Free
8 AM - 6 PM
Massive market for antiques and collectibles
Vibe:
Eclectic
Get To:
Yes, bus access
Tip:
Shopaholics
A treasure trove of vintage finds
🌙
Sanlitun Night Market
Night Market
Sanlitun Road
4.6
Free
5 PM - 1 AM
Lively night market with street food and shops
Vibe:
Bustling
Get To:
Yes, bus access
Tip:
Shopaholics
An energetic market after sunset
🎁
The Silk Market
Local Handicrafts
8 Dongzhimen Outer St.
4.4
$$
9 AM - 9 PM
Famous for silk products and traditional crafts
Vibe:
Charming
Get To:
Yes, subway access
Tip:
Cultural Enthusiasts
A shopper's paradise for textiles

Luxury

For More Tips Read Further

Imperial, Modern

Famous for the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, its imperial palaces, and rich cultural heritage.

Home to the Great Wall of China

Beijing, China’s bustling capital, offers a stunning juxtaposition of ancient history and modern innovation. Home to landmarks like the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Summer Palace, the city is rich in cultural significance. As China’s political and cultural heart, Beijing is an incredible city to explore, blending centuries of history with cutting-edge development and a vibrant local culture.

Watch Out

Watch out for Crowded Areas
Skip Super Touristic Places

Off the beaten path places in

Beijing

Transportation

Metro, buses, bicycles

City Overview

Beijing, the capital of China, is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. It blends ancient traditions with modern development.

Beijing

3 Day City Guide

- Day 1: Morning: Visit the Forbidden City. Afternoon: Explore Tiananmen Square. Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant. - Day 2: Morning: Visit the Great Wall at Mutianyu. Afternoon: Explore the Summer Palace. Evening: Attend a traditional Peking opera performance. - Day 3: Morning: Visit the Temple of Heaven. Afternoon: Explore the hutongs (traditional alleyways). Evening: Enjoy a night out in Wangfujing.

Current Trends

- Culinary trends: Rising interest in fusion cuisine and local food experiences. - Cultural events: Growing focus on traditional arts and crafts. - Tech innovations: Use of digital platforms for local event promotion.

Local Events Guide

- Beijing International Film Festival (April): Showcasing local and international films. - Chinese New Year Celebrations (January/February): Celebrating the Lunar New Year with festivities. - Beijing Design Week (September): Featuring local designers and artists.

Local Insider Tips

- Explore historical sites like the Forbidden City and the Great Wall. - Enjoy the local food scene, including Peking duck and street food. - Visit contemporary art spaces like 798 Art District.

Sustainable Travel

- Sustainable initiatives: Focus on urban green spaces and eco-friendly transportation. - Community engagement: Supporting local artists and cultural initiatives. - Eco-friendly practices: Increasing emphasis on sustainable tourism.

Beijing

Explore the Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences:

Ready to see through a local’s eyes?
Our curated guide unveils top hidden gems, secret spots, and local favorites that you won’t find in typical travel guides.
Whether it’s a cozy café tucked away in a historic neighborhood, a scenic trail only known to insiders, or unique cultural sites, has so much more to offer beyond the tourist hotspots.
Dive into our off-the-beaten-path guide and discover the true heart —perfect for adventurous travelers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone looking for an authentic journey

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Unlock the Hidden Side:

Each spot in our City guide is handpicked to help you experience the city like a local, avoiding the crowds and discovering the best-kept secrets.
From charming local eateries and breathtaking viewpoints to tucked-away art galleries and vibrant local markets, this guide lets you explore beyond the surface.
Follow our recommendations for an unforgettable adventure and see why these places stand out as favorites among locals.
For more unique experiences like these, explore our full collection of off-the-beaten-path city guides and make every trip a journey of discovery.

More Cities to Visit:

🇩🇪
Berlin
Berlin Hidden Gems
9.9
7
Euro (EUR) €
Berlin Hidden Gems
Vibe:
Berlin is home to over 1,700 parks, including the sprawling Tiergarten, and is a city that blends history and modernity effortlessly.
Tip:
Berlin’s unique cultural blend creates an exciting atmosphere. It offers a perfect mix of history, art, and innovation. Explore the remnants of the Berlin Wall, immerse yourself in contemporary art at the East Side Gallery, and visit its 170+ museums. Berlin's ever-evolving food scene, from vibrant street food markets to upscale dining, showcases the city's fusion of tradition and modernity. Whether you're in a minimalist café or a techno club, Berlin is constantly changing, with new trends emerging every day.
🇺🇸
Chicago
Local Chicago
10.4
8
US Dollar (USD) $
Local Chicago
Vibe:
Chicago has the world’s first skyscraper, the Home Insurance Building, built in 1885, shaping modern architecture.
Tip:
Chicago is a city of contrasts, where the old and new coexist. Its towering skyscrapers, like the Willis Tower, offer panoramic views of the city. In contrast, the rich blues and jazz culture continues to thrive, with legendary clubs that have hosted the likes of Muddy Waters and Buddy Guy. The city's food culture is just as diverse, from its signature deep-dish pizza to the internationally recognized Chicago-style hot dog. Whether you're visiting for its architectural wonders, live music, or culinary delights, Chicago promises an experience like no other.
🇵🇹
Lisbon
Hidden Lisbon
16.7
6
Euro (EUR) €
Hidden Lisbon
Vibe:
Lisbon is home to the oldest bookstore in the world, Livraria Bertrand, established in 1732.
Tip:
Lisbon is a captivating city that offers an ideal mix of history, culture, and modern vibrancy. Its ancient monuments and picturesque neighborhoods like Baixa and Bairro Alto are filled with art, while the lively Fado music captures the soul of the city. In the evening, Lisbon’s culinary delights—especially seafood—are a must-try for food lovers. Lisbon’s scenic tram rides give you an unforgettable view of this coastal gem.
🇭🇺
Budapest
Budapest Unveiled
11.5
8
Hungarian Forint (HUF) Ft
Budapest Unveiled
Vibe:
The Széchenyi Thermal Bath is one of the largest medicinal baths in Europe, with 15 pools and 3 outdoor pools.
Tip:
Budapest offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. The city’s historic buildings, such as Buda Castle and the Parliament, are a testament to its rich past. The Danube River adds a magical charm to the city, especially at night when the bridges and buildings are lit up. Budapest’s thermal baths are a must-experience, offering visitors the chance to relax in natural hot springs. Whether it’s enjoying Hungarian dishes at a traditional restaurant, exploring the city’s museums, or dancing in the vibrant nightlife scene, Budapest is a city that never fails to captivate.
🏙️
Columbus
Academic
4-28°C
Moderate
US Dollar (USD) $
Academic
Vibe:
Home to Ohio State University, major business hub
Tip:
Columbus is a city in the midst of growth, offering a rich cultural landscape with numerous museums, parks, and theaters. The presence of Ohio State University brings an energetic vibe to the city, which is reflected in its ever-evolving food scene, music venues, and arts programs. Known for its eclectic mix of modern and historical attractions, Columbus also draws visitors with its diverse green spaces, bike-friendly streets, and dynamic local events. Whether visiting for business or leisure, the city offers something for everyone.
🇦🇹
Vienna
Unseen Vienna
11.4
7
Euro (EUR) €
Unseen Vienna
Vibe:
Vienna has a rich tradition of coffeehouse culture, with many establishments dating back centuries.
Tip:
Vienna is a city where grandeur and tradition are beautifully intertwined. Its coffeehouses, with their rich cultural history, are perfect places to relax and enjoy Austrian pastries. The city’s classical music heritage, reflected in the Vienna State Opera, ensures that music lovers will be in paradise. Vienna’s artistic legacy, including its stunning palaces and museums, offers a wealth of experiences for culture seekers.