Flights from Brussels (BRU) to Beijing (BJS)

About Beijing

Discover Beijing, a capital of contrasts

Beijing is a city where ancient alleyways and imperial landmarks sit beside wide boulevards and modern glass towers. As the capital of China, it blends historic palaces, hidden courtyards, and landscaped parks with thriving business districts and contemporary art spaces. You feel the scale of the city, yet pockets of calm are never far away.

Walk through broad avenues lined with trees, explore neighbourhoods of low-rise traditional houses, or pause in a teahouse overlooking a tranquil lake. From sunrise views on historic walls to evening strolls in lively dining streets, Beijing rewards unhurried exploration and curiosity in every season.

Top sights in Beijing

Great Wall at Mutianyu or Badaling

Head out of the city to walk along restored sections of the Great Wall, enjoying sweeping mountain views and a sense of this vast historic structure.

Forbidden City

Explore the former imperial palace, with its grand courtyards, ornate halls, and intricate details that reveal centuries of craftsmanship.

Summer Palace

Stroll around lakes, pavilions, and long painted corridors in this landscaped retreat, once a warm-weather escape for the imperial court.

Temple of Heaven Park

Visit expansive gardens and striking ceremonial buildings, then wander the surrounding park where locals gather, chat, and enjoy outdoor activities.

Houhai Lakes and hutongs

Wander narrow hutong lanes near the Houhai lakes, stopping at cosy cafés, bars, and small boutiques along the waterfront.

Experience the culture of Beijing

Exploring Beijing is as much about its daily life as its famous landmarks. Join a walking tour of the hutongs to see traditional courtyard homes, learn about local architecture, and visit family-run shops that have served their neighbourhoods for generations. Renting a bicycle is a relaxed way to move between lakes, parks, and quieter side streets.

For a deeper insight into the citys arts scene, visit converted factory districts and galleries that now host contemporary exhibitions, design studios, and performance spaces. In the evening, you can enjoy acrobatic shows, theatre performances, or live music venues that showcase both established and emerging talent.

Outdoor enthusiasts can plan day trips to nearby hills and sections of the Great Wall for light hiking with impressive views. In cooler months, parks offer crisp air and open spaces, while in warmer seasons, boating on the lakes or relaxing in shaded gardens provides a refreshing break from the urban pace.

A taste of Beijing

Beijing is known for its rich culinary traditions, from famous roast duck to hearty northern-style noodles and dumplings. You can dine in long-established restaurants that specialise in classic dishes, or try modern venues that reinterpret local flavours with contemporary presentation and ingredients.

Street-side eateries and casual neighbourhood restaurants invite you to sample grilled skewers, hand-pulled noodles, and delicate snacks, often prepared in open kitchens where you can watch the chefs at work. Many areas come alive in the evening with outdoor seating and bright signs, making it easy to wander and choose whatever looks most appealing.

The city also offers a wide range of international options, from simple cafés to refined dining rooms in hotels and high-rise towers. Whether you are travelling for business or leisure, you will find plenty of places for a quick lunch between meetings or a leisurely dinner to end the day.

Retail therapy in Beijing

Shopping in Beijing ranges from high-end malls to lively markets and small design boutiques. Modern retail districts feature international fashion, cosmetics, and lifestyle brands, along with spacious food courts and rooftop terraces that make it easy to spend a full afternoon indoors.

If you prefer something more local, explore streets lined with independent shops selling clothing, homeware, tea, and handcrafted items. Some historic neighbourhoods have been revitalised with galleries, bookshops, and studios where you can find unique gifts or design pieces with a distinctly Beijing character.

Large markets and commercial streets remain popular for textiles, accessories, and a wide variety of everyday goods. While browsing, it is worth allowing extra time to explore side lanes and inner courtyards, where smaller businesses and quieter cafés often sit just away from the main crowds.

Best time to visit Beijing

Spring in Beijing (March to May, around 10–22°C / 50–72°F) is shoulder season, with gradually warming days, blossoming trees in parks, and generally clear skies. It is a pleasant time for walking the citys historic sites and enjoying outdoor cafés and lakeside paths.

Summer (June to August, around 22–30°C / 72–86°F) is peak season, bringing warm, often humid weather and longer daylight hours. This period suits travellers who enjoy evening strolls, outdoor dining, and day trips to the Great Wall when the surrounding hills are green.

Autumn and winter (September to February, around -5–20°C / 23–68°F) are low season, offering crisp air, cooler temperatures, and fewer crowds at major attractions. Autumn is known for comfortable days and colourful foliage, while winter can be cold yet atmospheric, with clear days ideal for photography and unhurried sightseeing.

Frequently Asked Questions