Flights from Europe to Beijing (BJS)

Discover Beijing

Discover Beijing

Why visit Beijing?
Beijing blends imperial landmarks, broad boulevards, and contemporary districts into a city that feels both historic and forward-looking, with grand sights at every turn.

What to expect
You can stroll through vast palace complexes, explore traditional hutong alleys, then step into modern art zones and business quarters, all linked by an extensive metro network.

Plan your trip
Beijing works well as a city break or as a starting point for journeys across northern and western China, thanks to its major international airport, high-speed rail connections, and varied accommodation.

Top sights in Beijing

Forbidden City

Walk through courtyards, ceremonial halls, and intricate pavilions in this vast former imperial palace at the heart of Beijing.

Tiananmen Square

Visit one of the largest public squares in the world, framed by monumental buildings and close to key museums.

Great Wall of China (Mutianyu or Badaling)

Take a day trip to these restored sections of the Great Wall for sweeping mountain views and atmospheric watchtowers.

Temple of Heaven Park

Explore elegant ceremonial buildings set within expansive parkland where locals gather for music, dance, and exercise.

Summer Palace

Enjoy lakeside paths, ornate bridges, and hilltop temples in this former royal retreat on the edge of the city.

798 Art District

Browse contemporary galleries, design shops, and street installations in this converted factory zone in northeast Beijing.

Beijing hutongs

Wander narrow lanes lined with courtyard homes, small cafes, and local shops for a more intimate view of city life.

Experience Beijing's everyday rhythm

Getting around
Use Beijing's metro as your main way to move quickly between landmarks, with clear signage and frequent services across the city. Taxis and app-based rides are useful late at night, while walking and cycling give you time to appreciate hutongs and smaller streets.

Local life & culture
You can see morning tai chi, musical gatherings, and games in city parks, especially around Temple of Heaven and Jingshan Park. Creative districts such as 798 and lively areas near universities highlight Beijing's artistic and student life.

Where to unwind
Parks like the Summer Palace, Beihai Park, and the lakes around Shichahai offer calm spaces for boat rides, walks, or quiet corners. Early mornings and late afternoons provide softer light, cooler temperatures, and a gentle pace away from the main roads.

A taste of Beijing

Street food & local specialties
You can sample classic Beijing-style roast duck, handmade noodles, and savoury pancakes in busy local streets and family-run eateries. Night-time snack streets and neighbourhood food alleys offer quick bites and a lively atmosphere.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Shopping centres and business districts house a wide range of restaurants serving regional Chinese dishes and international flavours. Smaller portions, shared plates, and set menus make it easy to try several tastes in one sitting.

Signature & scenic dining
For special meals, you can choose restaurants with views of historic rooftops, lakeside settings, or skyline panoramas from upper floors. Many venues near key landmarks and modern towers create memorable backdrops for relaxed, unhurried dining.

Retail therapy in Beijing

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Beijing's central districts feature large malls with international brands, lifestyle stores, cinemas, and cafes, all in air-conditioned comfort. These complexes often sit above metro stations, making them easy to fit into a day of sightseeing.

Markets & local crafts
Smaller streets and dedicated market areas showcase calligraphy, tea, textiles, and contemporary local labels, ideal for thoughtful gifts. Districts known for culture and arts are good places to look for design pieces and handicrafts with a Beijing flair.

Evening retail scene
After dark, illuminated shopping streets, plazas, and selected night markets stay open for browsing, snacks, and people-watching. Well-connected metro lines and taxis help you return to your hotel smoothly once you have finished exploring.

Best time to visit Beijing

Spring shoulder season runs from April to early June, with temperatures around 15–25°C (59–77°F) and generally clear, comfortable days for sightseeing. Summer peak season is from late June to August, when temperatures can reach 25–32°C (77–90°F), with hotter afternoons and occasional showers. Autumn shoulder season, from September to October, brings pleasant 10–22°C (50–72°F) days, often considered the most comfortable time to explore the city, while winter low season from November to March can see temperatures between -5 and 5°C (23–41°F), with crisp, cold air and quieter attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions