Beijing Travel Guide: Top Attractions, Food & Hotels in China’s Capital
Discover Beijing’s iconic sights like the Great Wall and Forbidden City, local food streets, and best hotels. Plan your trip with this 2025 guide.
Beijing, China’s political and cultural heart, blends ancient history with modern vibrancy. With over 3,000 years of history, the city offers world-famous landmarks, bustling food streets, and diverse accommodations. Whether you’re drawn to imperial palaces or cutting-edge skyscrapers, Beijing delivers unforgettable experiences.
Must-See Attractions in Beijing
The Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was the imperial palace for 24 emperors across 500 years. Its grand halls and intricate architecture showcase China’s royal legacy.
Nearby, the Temple of Heaven’s Circular Mound Altar and Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests reveal ancient rituals for bumper crops.
The Great Wall, a short trip from Beijing, is a marvel of ancient engineering. Mutianyu and Jinshanling sections offer breathtaking views and hiking trails. For a quieter experience, Huanghuacheng’s "Great Wall in Water" merges history with scenic beauty.
Food Streets & Local Flavors
Gui Street lights up at night with lamb spine hot pot and spicy crayfish. Wangfujing Snack Street serves jellied beancurd and fried tripe, while South Luogu Lane’s Spanish fried dough sticks with ice cream surprise visitors. Huguo Temple Snack Street offers budget-friendly bites like fried sugar cakes.
Where to Stay: Hotels & Prices
Luxury hotels like The Peninsula and Aman Summer Palace start around CN¥2,900 ($400/€370) per night. Mid-range 4-star hotels average CN¥800-1,200 ($110-170/€100-155), while budget hostels near hutongs offer beds from CN¥200-300 ($30-40/€27-36). Prices rise 20-30% during peak season (July-October).
The conversions use approximate current exchange rates (1 USD ≈ 7.25 CN¥, 1 EUR ≈ 7.85 CN¥) rounded for easy traveler reference.
Local Life & Nature
Beijing’s hutongs, like Nanluogu Alley, preserve traditional courtyard homes. Locals practice tai chi in Temple of Heaven Park at dawn. For nature, Summer Palace’s Kunming Lake and Beihai Park’s willow-lined waterways offer serene escapes.
With 21.5 million residents, Beijing thrives as a city of contrasts—where dynastic history meets futuristic skylines. Whether exploring the Ming Tombs or Universal Beijing Resort’s Harry Potter world, every corner tells a story.
