Flights from Beijing (BJS) to Seattle (SEA)

About Seattle

Discover Seattle

Why visit Seattle?
Seattle blends waterfront scenery, evergreen forests, and a dynamic urban core. You can explore creative neighbourhoods, discover a strong technology and arts scene, and enjoy a relaxed, outdoors-focused lifestyle that runs from the Puget Sound to the surrounding mountains.

What to expect
You will find compact districts such as Downtown, Belltown, and Pioneer Square easy to explore on foot, while the waterfront and Pike Place Market showcase the citys maritime and market heritage. Modern attractions, museums, and galleries sit alongside cosy cafés and independent boutiques, giving each area its own distinct character.

Plan your trip
Seattle works well as both a city break and a starting point for wider adventures in the Pacific Northwest. From here, you can access nearby islands, national parks, and scenic drives, making it an ideal base if you want to combine urban experiences with time in nature.

Top sights in Seattle

Space Needle

Ride up this iconic tower for panoramic views of the Seattle skyline, Elliott Bay, and snow-capped peaks on the horizon.

Pike Place Market

Stroll through this historic market to see fresh produce, artisan stalls, street performers, and lively waterfront views.

Chihuly Garden and Glass

Discover colourful glass sculptures set in striking indoor galleries and a landscaped outdoor garden beneath the Space Needle.

Museum of Pop Culture

Explore interactive exhibits celebrating music, film, games, and creative expression inside a bold contemporary building.

Seattle Waterfront

Walk along the piers for views over Elliott Bay, attractions such as the Seattle Great Wheel, and easy access to harbour cruises.

Kerry Park

Head to this small viewpoint on Queen Anne Hill for one of the classic postcard views of the city and Mount Rainier on clear days.

Ballard Locks

Watch boats move between freshwater and saltwater, and in season, see salmon navigating the fish ladder at this working lock system.

Experience Seattles everyday rhythm

Getting around
Seattles light rail connects the airport with Downtown and several key neighbourhoods, making it an efficient way to start your visit. Buses and streetcars fill in many gaps, while ferries offer scenic crossings on Puget Sound. For shorter distances, walking and app-based ride services work well.

Local life & culture
You will notice a strong café culture, an interest in technology and start-ups, and an appreciation for independent shops and venues. Neighbourhoods such as Capitol Hill and Fremont showcase creative street life, while the citys many small venues host live music, talks, and cultural events throughout the year.

Where to unwind
Along the shoreline, waterfront parks provide open views and easy walks at any time of day. In the city, urban green spaces invite you to pause between sights, and nearby viewpoints reward you with sunsets over the bay or the mountains when the skies are clear.

A taste of Seattle

Street food & local specialties
Pike Place Market and nearby streets are ideal places to try local snacks and seafood dishes served from casual counters and small eateries. Food trucks appear across the city, especially at lunchtimes and events, offering everything from comfort food to lighter, seasonal options.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Neighbourhoods such as South Lake Union, Capitol Hill, and Ballard feature relaxed restaurants, cafés, and bars clustered along walkable streets. Menus typically mix local produce with international influences, and sharing plates or smaller portions often make it easy to sample a few different flavours in one meal.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable evening, you can book a table in dining rooms with views of the skyline, waterfront, or surrounding hills. Some hotels and high-rise buildings offer refined spaces where the setting, service, and plating all combine to create a special occasion.

Retail therapy in Seattle

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Central Seattle offers several shopping centres where you can find international brands, lifestyle stores, and everyday services under one roof. These complexes often include cafés, cinemas, and casual dining, making them easy places to spend a few relaxed hours between sightseeing stops.

Markets & local crafts
Beyond large stores, areas such as Pike Place Market, Capitol Hill, and Ballard highlight independent makers, vintage finds, and small design labels. Here you can browse jewellery, art, and homeware made by local creatives, often meeting the people behind the products.

Evening retail scene
After dark, streets in Downtown and neighbourhood districts remain lively, with illuminated windows and late-opening shops in certain areas. Seasonal street events and evening markets sometimes add to the atmosphere, and public transport makes it straightforward to reach these districts without driving.

Best time to visit Seattle

Summer season (June to August, peak season)
In summer, daytime temperatures in Seattle average around 21–26°C (70–79°F), with long, bright evenings and relatively low rainfall. This is a popular time for outdoor festivals, harbour cruises, and hiking in nearby parks, with many attractions scheduling extended opening hours.

Mild spring and autumn (March to May, September to October, shoulder season)
During spring and autumn, temperatures usually sit between 10–18°C (50–64°F), with cooler mornings and a mix of sunshine and showers. These months bring colourful foliage or blossoming trees, and a calmer feel at major sights, making them appealing for relaxed urban exploration.

Cooler winter months (November to February, low season)
Winters in Seattle are generally mild, averaging 5–9°C (41–48°F), with more frequent rain and occasional crisp, clear days. This season is well suited to museum visits, cosy cafés, and indoor events, while nearby mountains often offer snow sports for day trips.

Frequently Asked Questions