Beijing, the capital city of China, is known for its rich culture, mouthwatering food, and stunning landmarks. This city has a perfect blend of ancient and modern architecture, making it a unique destination for travelers. Beijing is home to some of the world’s most iconic attractions, making it one of the most visited cities globally. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. In this post, we’re going to highlight the five best things to do in Beijing to make the most out of your trip. So, if you’re planning a trip to Beijing, keep reading.
The 5 Best Things to Do in Beijing
- Forbidden City and Huanghuacheng Great wall
- Emperors Masterpieces of the Forbidden City and Great Wall Tour
- [4days 3nights] Beijing+Xian Tour from/back to Beijing by air
- Beijing Layover Tour: Mutianyu Great Wall with Speaking-English Driver
- [5 days] Capital Beijing 2 nights + Modern Shanghai 2 nights By high speed Train
The 5 Best Things to Do in Beijing
1. Forbidden City and Huanghuacheng Great wall
Explore the fascinating Forbidden City and the Huanghuacheng Great Wall on this full-day tour from Beijing. You’ll be picked up at your selected pickup point at 12:00 AM and travel in an air-conditioned vehicle to the Forbidden City, one of China’s most popular landmarks. Once you arrive, you’ll have the opportunity to explore and learn about the history of this impressive imperial palace.
After visiting the Forbidden City, enjoy a delicious lunch before heading to the Huanghuacheng Great Wall. This section of the Great Wall is known for its water features and stunning mountain scenery. You’ll have plenty of time to take in the views and capture some unforgettable photos.
Throughout the tour, bottled water and travel insurance will be provided. Please note that this tour is not wheelchair accessible and it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with heart problems or other serious medical conditions. A moderate physical fitness level is required.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded. Any changes made less than 24 hours before the start time will not be accepted. Cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time. This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
2. Emperors Masterpieces of the Forbidden City and Great Wall Tour
Explore the fascinating Forbidden City and Great Wall on this Emperors Masterpieces tour. Your experienced English-speaking guide will pick you up from your hotel and take care of everything for you, including local taxes and gratuities. You’ll have the option to take a cable car or gondola ride at the Great Wall for an additional fee of RMB120 per person. Enjoy a delicious lunch before returning to your hotel. Please note that a valid passport is required on the day of travel and minimum numbers may apply. In the event of cancellation, the policy allows for a full refund if done at least 24 hours in advance. Come see these iconic treasures of Beijing for yourself!
3. [4days 3nights] Beijing+Xian Tour from/back to Beijing by air
This four-day, three-night tour of Beijing and Xian allows you to experience the best of these two iconic Chinese cities. As included in the tour package, you will have lunch and dinner, all entrance tickets, and the opportunity to give tips to your guide and driver should you wish to do so.
The tour begins with a pickup from Beijing airport according to your flight arrival time, and transportation is wheelchair accessible. During the tour, you can expect to visit the top attractions of both cities, and infant seats are also available upon request.
Please note that this tour package is non-refundable and changes cannot be made after booking. However, we aim to offer unforgettable experiences for all travelers who participate.
4. Beijing Layover Tour: Mutianyu Great Wall with Speaking-English Driver
Experience a unique and memorable layover in Beijing with this private airport transfer tour to Mutianyu Great Wall. Hike along the wall while admiring the beautiful surroundings and breathtaking views. You even have the option to take a cable car ride and toboggan down the hill for an extra thrill. Enjoy the convenience of pick up and drop off at Beijing Airport, tailored to your flight schedule. This is a private tour for you and your group, ensuring a more personalized experience. Mobile tickets are accepted, so there’s no need to find a printer. Benefit from your own private transport and guide, and make the most of your time in Beijing with this unforgettable layover tour.
5. [5 days] Capital Beijing 2 nights + Modern Shanghai 2 nights By high speed Train
Explore the best of China’s bustling cities with this 5-day tour. Start by spending 2 nights in the historic capital of Beijing where you’ll visit the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Great Wall at Mutianyu, and enjoy an acrobatic show. Then, take a high-speed train to the modern metropolis of Shanghai for another 2 nights of sightseeing including the Bund, Yu Garden, and Xintiandi. Throughout the tour, you’ll have a knowledgeable English speaking guide, air-conditioned coach transportation, and all entrance tickets included. Optional tips for the guide and driver are appreciated. Pickup from Beijing airport or train station is included, with the exact meeting point determined by your flight or train arrival time. This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason, so be sure to confirm your travel dates before booking.
The Ultimate Guide to Beijing: Answering the Most Frequently Asked Questions
Beijing, the capital city of China, is a bustling metropolis that has a rich history, culture, and cuisine. It’s a destination that attracts millions of visitors every year, but with so much to see and do, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. In this comprehensive guide, we aim to answer all of the frequently asked questions about Beijing that will help you plan your trip with ease.
1. When is the Best Time to Visit Beijing?
The best time to visit Beijing is in the spring (April-June) or autumn (September-October). During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities like sightseeing, hiking, and cycling. The summer months (July-August) can be very hot and humid, while the winter months (December-February) can be frigid and snowy. However, if you don’t mind the weather extremes, you can still find plenty of things to see and do in Beijing throughout the year.
2. What are the Must-See Attractions in Beijing?
Beijing is home to many famous attractions that you can’t afford to miss. The most popular include:
The Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China is a colossal structure that stretches over 13,000 miles across China. It’s one of the most iconic sights in the world and a must-visit attraction when in Beijing.
The Forbidden City
The Forbidden City was the imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s a magnificent complex of buildings, gardens, and courtyards that gives visitors a glimpse into China’s imperial past.
The Temple of Heaven
The Temple of Heaven is a beautiful Taoist temple that was used by the emperors to pray for good harvests. It’s a peaceful oasis in the city that’s worth visiting for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere.
3. What are the Best Foods to Try in Beijing?
Beijing is famous for its delicious cuisine, which is a blend of traditional Chinese dishes and local specialties. Some of the must-try dishes include:
Peking Duck
Peking Duck is a Beijing specialty that consists of roast duck that’s been marinated in spices and cooked to perfection. It’s usually served with thin pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce.
Dumplings (Jiaozi)
Dumplings are a staple food in Beijing and can be found in almost every restaurant. They come in various shapes and sizes and can be filled with meat, seafood, or veggies.
Hotpot
Hotpot is a popular meal in Beijing that consists of a simmering pot of soup stock at the center of the table. You cook your own meat, seafood, and veggies in the stock and dip them in various sauces for added flavor.
4. What is the Best Way to Get Around Beijing?
The best way to get around Beijing is by subway or bus. The subway system is modern, efficient, and affordable, with 23 lines that cover almost every corner of the city. Buses are also a good option and are particularly useful for short journeys or getting to destinations not covered by the subway.
5. What is the Currency Used in Beijing?
The currency used in Beijing, as well as the rest of China, is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). You can exchange foreign currency at banks and exchange bureaus, or withdraw cash from ATMs using your international bank card.
6. What is the Language Spoken in Beijing?
The official language spoken in Beijing is Mandarin Chinese, although many locals also speak English, especially in tourist areas.
7. Is Beijing Safe for Tourists?
Beijing is a relatively safe city for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, you should still take precautions to protect yourself, such as keeping your valuables close and being aware of your surroundings. Also, be careful when crossing the street as traffic can be chaotic, and drivers often don’t follow traffic signals.In conclusion, Beijing is an incredible destination that’s full of fascinating history, mouth-watering cuisine, and plenty of things to see and do. By answering these frequently asked questions, we hope to have provided you with a good starting point for planning your trip. So go ahead and book your tickets, pack your bags, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!
The 5 Best Things to Do in Beijing – Your Ultimate Guide
Beijing is a city that is bursting with culture, history, and things to see and do. From the impressive architecture, delicious street food, and breathtaking views, you are sure to find something that will captivate you. If you are planning a visit to Beijing and wondering what are the best things to do, read on for our comprehensive guide!
1. The Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China is undoubtedly one of the top attractions in Beijing, and for a good reason. This enormous architectural marvel spans over 21,000 km and dates back over 2,000 years. There are several sections of the Great Wall to visit, but the Mutianyu section, about 45 miles from Beijing, is the most popular with tourists. Here, you can ride a cable car to the top of the wall and take a leisurely stroll with panoramic views of the surrounding scenery. Be prepared for crowds, especially during the peak season!
2. Forbidden City
The Forbidden City is a UNESCO World Heritage site and was once the grand imperial palace during the Ming and Qing dynasties. It is the largest and best-preserved imperial palace complex in the world, consisting of over 800 buildings and covering 183 acres. A stroll through the complex will take you back in time as you imagine the emperors and their families walking through the grand halls and courtyards. Make sure you have comfortable walking shoes, as it will take at least half a day to explore this vast complex.
3. Tiananmen Square
Located in the heart of Beijing, Tiananmen Square is one of the world’s largest city squares and a must-visit landmark. It has historical and cultural significance regarding modern-day China and is where Mao Zedong declared the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949. The square is surrounded by important buildings such as the National Museum of China, the Great Hall of the People, and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong. It is free to enter, but be prepared for security checks and long queues, especially during peak seasons.
4. Temple of Heaven
The Temple of Heaven is another UNESCO World Heritage site and is a masterpiece of Chinese architecture, with its majestic hall, temple, and altar all built-in vibrant colors and decorated with intricate details. This temple complex was once used by Emperors to perform annual ceremonies to pray for good harvests. The surrounding gardens, full of ancient cypress and juniper trees, provide an excellent place for a peaceful stroll. If you are interested in nature, visit the temple early in the morning to see locals practicing Tai Chi and other traditional exercises.
5. Summer Palace
The Summer Palace is the quintessential Chinese royal garden, covering an area of 290 hectares in total, including 70,000 square meters of building area. The stunning gardens, lakes, and pavilions make for a breathtaking backdrop, and the palace dates back to the Qing Dynasty. The palace comprises several magnificent buildings, including the Hall of Joyful Longevity, the Marble Boat, and the Long Corridor, all of which offer stunning views of the lake and surrounding hills. Don’t forget to bring your walking shoes, as the Summer Palace is vast, and you’ll need to climb stairs to get to the top of the hills.
Final thoughts
Beijing is a city with a rich history, culture, and heritage. With so many things to see and do, it can be hard to decide where to start. Our guide to the top 5 best things to do in Beijing has hopefully given you a great starting point to plan your visit. Remember to take your time, embrace the local culture, and enjoy all that Beijing has to offer.
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