Forbidden City
UNESCO site
Palaces, courtyards and five centuries of imperial history.
Half day
Mapping your next journey
Imperial capital
Beijing.
Beijing Municipality
Imperial landmarks, quiet hutongs and ambitious contemporary culture meet in China’s many-layered capital.
World HeritageFirst-time favouriteAll seasons
Plan your trip
A quick guide to help you plan like a pro.
Best forChoose your focus
Must-see spots
Iconic places you should not miss.
Mutianyu Great Wall
Mountain landmark
Restored watchtowers and sweeping ridgeline views.
Full day
Temple of Heaven
Sacred architecture
A serene ceremonial complex set within a lively park.
2–3 hours
Shichahai Hutongs
Local neighbourhood
Lakeside lanes, courtyard homes and evening snacks.
2–3 hours
Gallery
Real places, real moments.
How to get there
Getting to Beijing is easier than you think.
By air
Capital and Daxing airports connect Beijing worldwide.
40–70 min to central BeijingBy train
High-speed rail reaches most major Chinese cities.
4.5h from ShanghaiBy road
Private transfers are best for Great Wall day trips.
1.5h to MutianyuEditor’s picks
Three previews from 15 stays across high, mid-range and value tiers.
Cours et Pavillons
Dongcheng
A refined courtyard stay in a traditional hutong.
From A$238/night
Open the full editor window for five high-end, five mid-range and five smart-value options. Hotel profiles link to Tripadvisor search for current feedback and availability.
Traveller perspectives
Original editorial scenarios in short and detailed formats.
“The sunrise walk on the Great Wall was worth the early alarm.”
ER
Emily R.Australia
“Beijing felt enormous at first, but the days were paced beautifully. Our hutong afternoon and dumpling stop gave the imperial sights a much more human scale.”
DK
Daniel K.Singapore
“Loved the contrast between quiet temple parks and the energy around Sanlitun.”
MT
Maya T.Canada
Representative names and original LeBo editorial copy informed by recurring themes in public Tripadvisor traveller feedback .
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