Things to do in Beijing

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Forbidden City featuring heritage architecture and a square or plaza

Beijing Attractions

Beijing, one of the world's largest and most vibrant cities, is full of rich Chinese history and features a blended mix of Asian cultures. This city is perfect for tourists who want to enjoy a blend of ancient traditions and modern-day marvels. There are a variety of things to do in Beijing for people of all ages.

The Great Wall of China is one of the top spots to visit. As such, you should begin your Beijing journey by visiting the Great Wall at Mutianyu. Part of many Beijing excursions, this part of the wall has been greatly preserved throughout the centuries. While it is a bit further from the center of Beijing than other sections, the area is rarely crowded, making for a great outing with your family.

While the Palace of Museum itself is one of the best local places to visit during your trip, the Hall of Great Harmony located within the museum is a must see for everyone. The Hall of Great Harmony features ancient architecture, artifacts, temples, and a large number of statues originally sculpted centuries ago.

There are a large amount of Beijing tours available to ensure you don’t miss any of the must-see spots of the area. As such, make sure the tour you choose includes a stop at the Temple of Heaven. This historical religious structure, built in 1420, was originally used by emperors to pay respects to their Gods from the heavens. Now, the Temple of Heaven stands as one of the main tourist focal points and one of the great attractions in Beijing. Don't forget to schedule a visit to this wonderfully preserved historical site.

To take advantage of all the wonderful Beijing activities available to visitors, Expedia recommends you carry a map at all times. Don't miss out on a great opportunity to take your family to one of the most exciting cities in Asia and book your vacation today!


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Most popular activities in Beijing

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What to do in Beijing

Free Things to Do in Beijing

Traveling on a limited budget in Beijing? Spend time, not your paycheck, on fantastic experiences.

Beijing Police Museum - Speak to the staff and learn about the unique collections exhibited at this museum.

Red Gate Gallery - If you're eager to find out more about the area's buzzing arts and culture scene, make sure you stop by.

Jingshan Table Tennis Park - Let down your hair and add a little excitement to your vacation here.

Dongsishitiao Bridge - If you're impressed by modern design and architecture, add this attraction to your must-see list.

Hall of Preserving Harmony - If you'd like to explore the area's history through its landmarks, add this one to your to-do list.

Tiananmen Square - Find out why locals and travelers alike are enchanted by the unique vibe of this place.

Houhai Lake - Spend a while near the water to rest and recharge your batteries.

Chairman Mao Memorial Hall - Flick through your guidebook and find out why this place deserves a spot on your travel itinerary.

Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception - Stop for some quiet contemplation and find out a few things about this site's religious significance.

Zhongshan Park - Recharge your mind and body by spending a bit of time with Mother Nature.


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Beijing? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Beijing on a sunny day?
What to do in Beijing on a rainy day?
There’s no need to splish, splash and splosh your way through a soggy day when there are plenty of terrific indoor activities to try:


What is Beijing famous for?
Bring comfy shoes because there are plenty of landmarks you just have to see:

  • Great Wall of China
  • Forbidden City
  • Great Wall of China
  • Tiananmen Square

What should I not miss in Beijing?
Don’t venture home without crossing off the following fantastic attractions:

  • Wangfujing Street
  • Temple of Heaven
  • Summer Palace
  • Tsinghua University

Are there cheap things to do in Beijing?
What can you do in Beijing for free?
You’ll barely have time to pull your wallet out of your bag with so many free things to do:

  • Tiananmen Square
  • Wangfujing Street
  • Beihai Park
  • Hongqiao Market


Discover the most popular places to visit in Beijing

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Beijing

Temple of Heaven which includes a temple or place of worship, religious aspects and heritage architecture

Downtown Beijing

3.5/5(6 area reviews)

Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, the North Cathedral and Houhai Park are among the famous attractions in the city center of Beijing.

Downtown Beijing
National Museum of China featuring signage

Wangfujing Shopping Area

Historic 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
South Chaoyang

Chaoyang

3.5/5(7 area reviews)

Museums, art galleries, and cocktail bars highlight some notable features of Chaoyang. Make a stop by Alien's Street Trade Market or Temple of the Sun while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Dongdaqiao Station or Hujialou Station to get around town.

Chaoyang
Dongcheng - Wangfujing

Dongcheng

4.5/5(737 area reviews)

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

Dongcheng
Summer Palace showing heritage elements and a river or creek

Haidian

4/5(67 area reviews)

A hub of stunning lakeside palaces and a home for Beijing’s universities, this district is an enchanting and original destination.

Haidian
Houhai Lake which includes heritage elements and a lake or waterhole

Xicheng

4/5(90 area reviews)

Dotted with gorgeous lakes, spiritual hubs and traditional architecture, the West City is a vast window into the customs and culture in central Beijing.

Xicheng

Popular day trips from Beijing