Flights from Penang (PEN) to Beijing (BJS)

About Beijing

Discover Beijing

Why visit Beijing?
Beijing blends imperial grandeur with modern energy, where historic palaces and wide boulevards sit alongside glass towers and creative districts. You can explore iconic landmarks, peaceful parks, and lively neighbourhoods that reveal the citys many layers.

What to expect
You will find broad avenues lined with trees, hidden courtyards tucked behind traditional alleyways, and a skyline that keeps evolving. Key areas such as Tiananmen, Wangfujing, Sanlitun, and the Olympic district each offer a distinct atmosphere, from ceremonial squares to contemporary lifestyle hubs.

Plan your trip
Beijing works well as both a standalone city break and a starting point for wider exploration in northern China. From here, you can join excursions to sections of the Great Wall, or connect onwards by high-speed rail and air to other major cities in the region.

Top sights in Beijing

Forbidden City

Walk through vast courtyards and ornate halls in this former imperial palace complex in the heart of Beijing.

Tiananmen Square

Visit one of the worlds largest city squares, framed by grand public buildings and important cultural institutions.

Temple of Heaven Park

Stroll through landscaped grounds and admire striking historic architecture set within a large urban green space.

Summer Palace

Explore lakes, pavilions, and hilltop views in this former royal retreat on the outskirts of the city.

Great Wall near Beijing

Take a day trip to well-preserved sections of the Great Wall, offering sweeping views of the surrounding hills.

798 Art District

Discover galleries, design shops, and outdoor installations in a converted industrial area popular with creatives.

Houhai and surrounding hutongs

Wander around lakeside paths and narrow lanes lined with courtyard homes, cafes, and small boutiques.

Experience Beijings everyday rhythm

Getting around
Beijings extensive metro network is usually the fastest way to move between major sights and business districts. Taxis and ride-hailing services complement the metro for shorter hops, while walking within neighbourhoods such as Wangfujing or Houhai lets you notice details at a gentler pace.

Local life & culture
You can see neighbourhood life unfold in parks, residential lanes, and public squares, from early-morning exercises to relaxed evening gatherings. Historic alleyways sit close to modern developments, creating a cityscape where traditional courtyards and new cultural venues share the same streets.

Where to unwind
Parks and lakes across the city offer quiet corners, shaded paths, and open spaces for a break between sightseeing. Early mornings and late afternoons are pleasant times to visit these green areas, when the light softens and the citys pace feels more relaxed.

A taste of Beijing

Street food & local specialties
Beijing is known for hearty northern flavours, with snacks and noodles available in lively streets and local eateries. Areas near traditional markets and older neighbourhoods are good places to try regional favourites in a casual setting.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Around commercial districts such as Sanlitun and Wangfujing, you will find a broad mix of cafes, mid-range restaurants, and international options. Menus often encourage sharing, so you can sample several dishes in one meal and tailor your choices to your appetite.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable evening, consider restaurants with views of city landmarks, skyline vistas, or lakeside outlooks. Many higher-floor venues and hotels offer refined settings where you can linger over your meal while watching the city lights.

Retail therapy in Beijing

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Central Beijing features large shopping centres that combine international labels, local brands, and plenty of dining options. Areas such as Wangfujing and Sanlitun have become lifestyle hubs where shopping, entertainment, and leisure blend together.

Markets & local crafts
You can browse for crafts, textiles, and distinctive gifts in smaller markets and dedicated shopping streets. Neighbourhoods like Nanluoguxiang, Liulichang, and parts of the old city offer interesting finds from local designers and artisans.

Evening retail scene
After dark, illuminated shopping streets and late-opening malls create a lively atmosphere for an evening stroll. Night-time window-shopping is easy to pair with dining nearby, and the metro system helps you return to your hotel comfortably at the end of the day.

Best time to visit Beijing

Spring (chun) – shoulder season
From March to May, temperatures usually range from 10°C to 22°C (50°F to 72°F), with trees and parks gradually turning green. It is a popular time for outdoor sightseeing, and light layers help you adapt to the shift from cool mornings to milder afternoons.

Summer (xia tian) – peak season
June to August is typically warm to hot, around 22°C to 30°C (72°F to 86°F), with longer daylight hours and occasional showers. This is a busy period for families and holidaymakers, and many visitors enjoy extended time in parks and at nearby sections of the Great Wall.

Autumn and winter (qiu tian and dong tian) – low season
From September to February, conditions shift from crisp autumn days around 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F) to colder winter temperatures often between -5°C and 5°C (23°F to 41°F). Clear days can offer excellent visibility at scenic viewpoints, and quieter crowds suit a slower exploration of major sights.

Frequently Asked Questions