Things to do in Beijing

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Forbidden City which includes a fountain
Forbidden City featuring heritage architecture and a square or plaza
Beijing showing a monument and heritage elements as well as a large group of people
Olympic Park which includes modern architecture
Dongcheng - Wangfujing which includes a statue or sculpture and heritage elements

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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Beijing must see attractions

1. 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 featuring street scenes and a city

2. 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 showing a river or creek, a lake or waterhole and heritage architecture

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, heritage elements and a monument

5. 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 showing a city, a temple or place of worship and religious elements

6. 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 featuring heritage elements

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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!

 


 


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
Dongcheng - Wangfujing

Dongcheng

4.5/5(737 area reviews)

Home to major cultural attractions like the Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven, Dongcheng boasts vibrant nightlife in Nanluoguxiang's hutongs and shopping at Wangfujing. Prestigious hotels and nine metro lines ensure a convenient stay.

Dongcheng
China showing a garden

Chaoyang

3.5/5(7 area reviews)

Discover a bustling district with foreign embassies, Sanlitun bar street, and a thriving business area. Explore attractions like 798 Art Zone, Olympic Green, and Chaoyang Park, while enjoying convenient access to 14 metro lines and Beijing Capital Airport.

Chaoyang
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)

Beihai Park and Jingshan Park offer serene green spaces, while the bustling Xidan commercial district and Houhai bar area provide lively entertainment. Explore historic sites like Prince Gong's Residence and enjoy easy access to seven metro lines.

Xicheng

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Popular day trips from Beijing

Frequently asked questions

Is Beijing worth visiting?
Known for its culture and history, finding fun things to do in Beijing is a cinch. Don't forget to add Wangfujing Street to your itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Beijing?
After you've checked off popular attractions like Wangfujing Street and Forbidden City, spend some time experiencing the food and retail options in Beijing.
What is the top tourist attraction in Beijing?
You can't go home without checking out Wangfujing Street, ranked the top tourist attraction in Beijing.
Is three days enough to stay in Beijing?
You can easily enjoy top attractions like Wangfujing Street, Forbidden City and The Palace Museum with a three-day getaway in Beijing. On average, most travelers book two days here. There's plenty to do and see nearby too, so stay a little longer and head to Daxing.
Is Beijing a walkable city?
Some leading sights in Beijing, such as Wangfujing Street and Forbidden City, are within walking distance. You can also experience several of the city's neighborhoods on foot. Only 2 miles from the city center of Beijing is Dongcheng and Wangfujing Shopping Area is 2 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Beijing with kids?
What to do in Beijing for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, avid foodie or fan of Mother Nature, 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 top ways to find free things to do in Beijing is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on interesting neighborhoods, parks and other attractions you can experience without getting your cash out. Wangfujing Street is one spot that doesn't have an entrance fee.

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