Flights from Manila (MNL) to Beijing (BJS)

About Beijing

Discover Beijing, where history meets modern energy

Beijing blends imperial landmarks, wide boulevards, and striking contemporary architecture into a city that feels both historic and forward-looking. As China’s capital, it offers grand public spaces, world-class museums, and neighbourhoods where centuries-old courtyards stand beside glass-and-steel towers.

From early morning walks along tree-lined hutong lanes to evenings spent exploring vibrant shopping streets and lively food districts, you will find each area has its own rhythm. Wide avenues, efficient transport, and clearly defined districts make it easy to move between iconic sites, quieter parks, and emerging cultural hubs throughout your stay.

Top sights in Beijing

Forbidden City

Walk through grand gates and vast courtyards in this former imperial palace complex, now a museum of traditional architecture and artefacts.

Tiananmen Square

Visit one of the world’s largest public squares, framed by monumental buildings and an impressive central flagpole.

Great Wall at Mutianyu

Take a day trip to this scenic section of the Great Wall, known for its forested hillsides, watchtowers, and well-restored ramparts.

Summer Palace

Stroll around lakes, pavilions, and landscaped gardens that once formed an expansive summer retreat for the imperial court.

798 Art District

Explore galleries, design shops, and cafés housed in former factory buildings in this contemporary arts neighbourhood.

Experience Beijing’s culture and city life

Spend time in Beijing’s historic hutong areas, where narrow alleyways, traditional courtyard homes, and small local shops reveal a more intimate side of the city. Joining a guided walking or cycling tour is a good way to learn about the stories behind the architecture, and to discover quieter backstreets and local markets.

Culture lovers can plan a day around the city’s museums and theatres. The National Museum and Capital Museum present wide-ranging collections, while performance venues host everything from classical music to acrobatics. In the evening, head to neighbourhoods around the city centre to find modern galleries, design studios, and live-music bars showcasing Beijing’s creative scene.

For time outdoors, Beijing’s parks offer generous green spaces for walks, casual exercise, or simply watching city life unfold. Around the lakes in Houhai and at larger parks, you can enjoy boat rides in warmer months or relaxed strolls under colourful autumn leaves.

A taste of Beijing

Beijing’s dining scene ranges from long-established restaurants specialising in classic dishes to modern eateries that reinterpret regional cuisine. You can enjoy favourites such as crisp roast duck, hand-pulled noodles, and dumplings, served in settings that vary from elegant dining rooms to busy, informal venues.

Food streets and evening markets are ideal for sampling a variety of small plates and snacks in one place. Here, you can try grilled skewers, savoury pancakes, and seasonal specialities while watching the city wind down for the night. Many shopping districts also have dedicated food courts, offering convenient options between sightseeing and retail stops.

International restaurants, cafés, and bakeries are easy to find in central areas and business districts. Whether you prefer a quick breakfast, a leisurely afternoon tea, or a late dinner, you will have a wide choice of styles and atmospheres to match your day.

Retail therapy in Beijing

Beijing offers everything from luxury malls to compact boutiques, making it easy to fit shopping into your itinerary. Modern retail complexes in central districts group international brands, local designers, dining, and entertainment in one place, so you can browse, dine, and relax without rushing.

For something more traditional, visit markets and speciality shops that focus on crafts, textiles, tea, and decorative items. These areas are ideal for picking up thoughtful mementoes and gifts, and often sit near older neighbourhoods that are interesting to explore on foot.

Creative districts such as 798 feature independent design stores and galleries selling limited-edition pieces, art books, and contemporary homeware. In contrast, major commercial streets offer large department stores and flagship outlets, giving you a more classic city-shopping experience.

Best time to visit Beijing

Spring (March to May, shoulder season) brings mild days around 10–22°C (50–72°F) and clear, fresh air, ideal for walking city streets and parks as trees and flowers come into bloom.

Summer (June to August, peak season) is warm and lively, with temperatures around 22–31°C (72–88°F). Longer daylight hours suit day trips to the Great Wall and evenings on restaurant terraces or around the city’s lakes.

Autumn (September to October, shoulder season) is often dry and pleasantly cool at 10–20°C (50–68°F), with blue skies and colourful foliage in parks and at the Summer Palace.

Winter (November to February, low season) is cold, typically from -5 to 5°C (23–41°F), but offers crisp days, quieter attractions, and the chance to see historic landmarks in a calmer atmosphere.

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