Flights from Kolkata (CCU) to Beijing (BJS)

About Beijing

Discover Beijing, where history meets modern life

Beijing is a city where imperial palaces sit alongside glass towers, and quiet hutong lanes open out onto broad, tree-lined boulevards. As the capital of China, it offers a compelling mix of grand avenues, contemporary culture, and centuries-old traditions woven into everyday life.

From the vast expanse of Tiananmen Square to the graceful curves of the Forbidden City, you can trace the story of dynasties and rulers in the heart of the city. Step beyond the centre and you will find creative districts, leafy parks, and residential neighbourhoods where street food stalls, teahouses, and local markets give a glimpse into daily life.

Beijing is also a gateway to some of the most iconic landmarks in the country, including dramatic stretches of the Great Wall set against rolling hills. Whether you are visiting for business, study, or leisure, the city rewards slow exploration and offers new layers to uncover each day.

Top sights in Beijing

Forbidden City

Walk through grand courtyards, ornate halls, and intricate gateways in this vast former imperial palace complex in the centre of Beijing.

Great Wall at Mutianyu or Badaling

Head out of the city to explore restored sections of the Great Wall, where watchtowers and stone ramparts follow the ridgeline of the surrounding hills.

Tiananmen Square

Visit one of the world’s largest public squares, framed by imposing government buildings and cultural institutions, to feel the scale of the capital.

Summer Palace

Stroll around lakes, pavilions, and shaded walkways in this expansive royal garden, known for its scenic views and elegant architecture.

798 Art District

Explore contemporary galleries, street installations, and design shops in this former industrial area transformed into a creative hub.

Experience Beijing’s culture and city life

A visit to Beijing is an opportunity to experience both grand cultural landmarks and everyday local life. Join a guided tour through the Forbidden City and nearby historic sites to gain context on the city’s long past, then contrast it with a walk through the 798 Art District, where converted factory spaces now house galleries, cafes, and design studios.

For a slower pace, spend time in Beijing’s parks and hutong neighbourhoods. Early in the morning, city parks fill with residents practising tai chi, dancing, or playing traditional instruments, creating a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. In the hutongs, you can wander narrow lanes lined with courtyard homes, small shops, and family-run eateries, or join a walking or cycling tour to learn how these neighbourhoods have evolved.

Outdoor enthusiasts can plan a day trip to the Great Wall, choosing from stretches such as Mutianyu or Badaling, where well-maintained paths and cable cars make access easier. Each section offers wide panoramas and a chance to appreciate the landscape that surrounds the capital, especially in the soft light of early morning or late afternoon.

A taste of Beijing

Beijing’s dining scene ranges from time-honoured specialties to inventive contemporary cuisine. The city is renowned for dishes such as roast duck, often served with thin pancakes, crisp skin, and a variety of accompaniments, best enjoyed in restaurants that specialise in the preparation. Noodle shops, dumpling houses, and hotpot restaurants are also easy to find, each offering their own regional flavours.

Street-side eateries and food courts introduce you to quick, satisfying bites, from skewers and buns to seasonal snacks. In older neighbourhoods, many vendors focus on recipes passed down through generations, while in newer areas around business districts and shopping malls, you will discover modern interpretations of classic dishes.

For a broader view of the city’s culinary energy, look for areas where small bistros, tea shops, and dessert cafes cluster together. These lively pockets are ideal for trying different places in one evening, whether you prefer simple, comforting meals or more refined multi-course menus.

Retail therapy in the capital

Beijing offers a wide variety of shopping experiences, from contemporary malls to traditional markets. Large commercial streets and modern complexes host international brands, local designers, and lifestyle labels, often combined with cinemas, restaurants, and family-friendly entertainment.

If you enjoy exploring markets, you will find places where stalls are filled with clothing, accessories, homeware, and decorative pieces. Some areas are known for antiques and collectables, where browsing is as much about discovering unique objects as it is about understanding local tastes and craftsmanship.

For something more tailored to design and creativity, visit districts that combine independent boutiques with galleries and cafes. These neighbourhoods are ideal for picking up original fashion, jewellery, and art pieces created by emerging designers and artists based in the city.

Best time to visit Beijing

Spring in Beijing (March to May, around 10°C–23°C / 50°F–73°F) is a shoulder season, with gradually warming days, blossoming trees, and clearer skies. It is a pleasant time for walking tours, park visits, and excursions to the Great Wall before summer heat arrives.

Summer (June to August, around 22°C–31°C / 72°F–88°F) is the peak season, bringing warm, often humid weather, longer daylight hours, and a busy programme of events. This period is ideal if you enjoy lively streets, later evenings outdoors, and making the most of rooftop terraces and lakeside parks.

Autumn (September to early November, around 10°C–22°C / 50°F–72°F) is another shoulder season, known for comfortable temperatures and crisp, clear days. The changing colours in parks and around the Great Wall create especially scenic conditions for photography and outdoor activities.

Winter (late November to February, around -5°C–5°C / 23°F–41°F) is the low season, with cold, dry days that often bring blue skies. It is a rewarding time to experience quieter attractions, festive decorations, and hearty seasonal dishes that suit the cooler weather.

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