Flights from Dubai (DXB) to Beijing (BJS)

About Beijing

Discover Beijing

Why visit Beijing?
Beijing blends imperial landmarks, grand avenues, and fast-changing districts into one memorable city. You can walk between centuries-old courtyards and sleek shopping streets, then end the day in leafy parks or lively hutong lanes.

What to expect
The city is anchored by broad boulevards, distinct ring roads, and key sights such as the Forbidden City, the Great Wall within easy reach, and Tiananmen Square. Neighbourhoods range from creative hubs filled with galleries to traditional alleys where daily life plays out at a slower pace.

Plan your trip
Beijing works well as both a standalone city break and a gateway to northern China. From here you can explore different Great Wall sections, nearby historic towns, and high-speed rail links to other major cities, making it a strong base for a wider itinerary.

Top sights in Beijing

Forbidden City

Explore the vast palace complex of the former imperial court, with grand halls, courtyards, and intricate architectural details.

Tiananmen Square

Visit one of the world’s largest public squares, framed by imposing monuments and important cultural institutions.

Great Wall at Mutianyu

Take a day trip to this scenic, well-preserved section of the Great Wall, known for its forested ridges and panoramic views.

Summer Palace

Stroll through lakeside gardens, pavilions, and walkways in this expansive former royal retreat on the city’s outskirts.

Temple of Heaven Park

Admire striking historic architecture and watch locals practising tai chi, music, and games in the surrounding parkland.

798 Art District

Discover contemporary galleries, design shops, and cafés housed in repurposed factory buildings in this creative neighbourhood.

Beijing hutongs

Wander through narrow alleyways lined with courtyard homes, small shops, and cafés that offer a glimpse of older Beijing life.

Jingshan Park

Climb to the hilltop pavilion for a sweeping view over the Forbidden City and the central city skyline.

Experience Beijing’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Beijing’s extensive metro network is usually the most efficient way to cover longer distances, especially during busy periods. Taxis and app-based rides complement the metro for door-to-door trips, while walking within central districts lets you explore hutongs and hidden courtyards at your own pace.

Local life & culture
Early mornings often begin in parks, where residents gather for exercise, music, and socialising. Creative districts host galleries, design studios, and performance spaces, while university areas and business zones bring a steady flow of students and professionals. You will find a mix of long-time residents and newcomers shaping the city’s evolving character.

Where to unwind
Many visitors head to lakeside neighbourhoods, leafy parks, or landscaped riverbanks to step away from the city’s busy avenues. These spots are particularly pleasant in the late afternoon and early evening, when the light softens and temperatures cool. They provide calm places to pause, reflect on the day, and plan tomorrow’s sightseeing.

A taste of Beijing

Street food & local specialties
Beijing is known for classic dishes such as roast duck, hand-pulled noodles, and hearty dumplings. Lively hutong areas and traditional food streets offer small eateries and stalls where you can try regional snacks and quick meals between sightseeing stops.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Shopping malls and mixed-use complexes around key commercial districts bring together cafés, bakeries, and restaurants serving flavours from across China and beyond. Menus range from simple, comforting bowls to shareable plates, so you can sample several dishes with friends or family in one sitting.

Signature & scenic dining
For a special evening, you can book a table at refined restaurants known for their take on classic Beijing cuisine or modern seasonal menus. Some venues offer views over city landmarks or attractive neighbourhoods, adding a memorable backdrop to your meal.

Retail therapy in Beijing

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Central Beijing features large shopping centres that combine international fashion, lifestyle brands, cinemas, and dining under one roof. These complexes are popular meeting points, giving you a convenient way to shop, eat, and relax in the same place.

Markets & local crafts
Away from the main avenues, you will find streets and compact markets that showcase local designers, handicrafts, and art pieces. Districts with creative communities and older residential neighbourhoods are good places to look for distinctive souvenirs and everyday items.

Evening retail scene
In the evenings, illuminated shopping streets, plazas, and lifestyle districts become lively, with shops, cafés, and entertainment open late. Well-connected metro lines and clear signage make it straightforward to reach these areas and return to your hotel after a night out.

Best time to visit Beijing

Spring (chūn jì, March to May, shoulder season)
Spring in Beijing brings gradually warming days, with average temperatures around 10–20°C (50–68°F). Parks and city streets feel fresh, making it a pleasant time for walking tours and outdoor sights.

Summer (xià jì, June to August, peak season)
Summer is warm to hot, with average temperatures from 22–30°C (72–86°F) and higher at midday. Long daylight hours suit full-day excursions, including trips to the Great Wall and evening walks in lively neighbourhoods.

Autumn and winter (qiū dōng jì, September to February, low season)
Autumn is often crisp and clear, with 10–20°C (50–68°F) days that are ideal for city exploration, while winter can fall below 0°C (32°F). Cooler months offer quieter attractions and a different perspective on Beijing’s historic landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions