Flights from Guangzhou (CAN) to Beijing (BJS)

About Beijing

Discover Beijing

Why visit Beijing?
Beijing is a city where imperial landmarks, wide boulevards, and intimate hutong alleys sit side by side. You will find grand palaces, tranquil parks, and a fast-evolving skyline that together create a distinctive, energetic atmosphere.

What to expect
In Beijing, broad avenues link major districts like Dongcheng, Chaoyang, and Xicheng, each with its own character. You can explore historic courtyards in the older neighbourhoods, then step into modern business hubs and cultural venues that showcase contemporary China.

Plan your trip
Beijing is a natural starting point for exploring nearby sections of the Great Wall and the wider region of northern China. With extensive high-speed rail links and domestic flights, it works well as both a short city break and the first stop on a longer journey.

Top sights in Beijing

Forbidden City

Walk through grand courtyards, ornate halls, and traditional roofs in this vast former imperial residence at the heart of Beijing.

Tiananmen Square

Visit one of the world’s largest public squares, framed by imposing buildings and monuments that define the city centre.

Great Wall at Mutianyu or Badaling

Take a day trip to walk along restored sections of the Great Wall, with sweeping mountain views and well-maintained paths.

Summer Palace

Stroll around lakes, pavilions, and garden pathways in this scenic former royal retreat on the city’s north-western edge.

Temple of Heaven Park

Explore a vast park with striking historic architecture and open spaces popular for morning walks and local activities.

Beijing hutongs

Wander through narrow alleyways lined with traditional courtyard homes, small cafes, and creative spaces in older neighbourhoods.

798 Art District

Discover galleries, design shops, and outdoor installations set within a former industrial area turned creative quarter.

Olympic Green

See modern landmarks such as the Bird’s Nest stadium and enjoy broad plazas and landscaped open areas.

Experience Beijing’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
The Beijing Metro is the most efficient way to cover longer distances across the city, linking key sights and business districts. Taxis and app-based rides are useful for late evenings or areas farther from stations, while walking is ideal within compact hutong neighbourhoods.

Local life & culture
In older quarters, you can see residents chatting in courtyards, playing games in parks, and using small local shops as social hubs. Modern districts feature galleries, theatres, and cultural centres that host exhibitions and performances throughout the year, giving you many ways to experience local creativity.

Where to unwind
Beijing offers generous green spaces, from expansive city parks to lakeside paths ideal for relaxed strolls. Early morning and late afternoon are comfortable times to visit, when the light is softer and the atmosphere is calmer, giving you a restful contrast to the city’s busy streets.

A taste of Beijing

Street food & local specialties
Beijing’s food scene ranges from steamed snacks to hearty northern dishes, with many options found in older streets and compact neighbourhood markets. You can try shared plates and simple bites that highlight bold flavours and contrasting textures.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Contemporary malls and lifestyle complexes bring together a wide variety of regional and international cuisines in one place. Portions are often suited to sharing, so you can sample noodles, grilled dishes, and lighter plates across several venues in a single visit.

Signature & scenic dining
For a special evening, choose a restaurant with views over a lake, a landscaped park, or a central skyline. These venues focus on careful presentation and a relaxed atmosphere, helping you enjoy the city’s night-time lights while you dine.

Retail therapy in Beijing

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Large shopping centres in central districts feature international brands, local designers, and entertainment options under one roof. They are convenient places to combine shopping with cinema visits, casual dining, and meetings with friends or colleagues.

Markets & local crafts
Smaller streets and indoor markets are good for browsing clothing, accessories, and pieces from emerging local labels. Areas with older architecture often hide boutique stores and studios, where you can find more individual items and souvenirs.

Evening retail scene
After dark, main shopping streets and mall facades are lit up, creating a lively atmosphere for an evening stroll. Many centres stay open into the night, and reliable public transport makes it straightforward to return to your hotel when you are finished.

Best time to visit Beijing

Spring bloom (March to May, shoulder season)
Spring in Beijing gradually warms from around 10°C (50°F) to 22°C (72°F), with clearer days and emerging greenery in parks and around lakes. It is a pleasant time for walking city streets and visiting outdoor sights, with a steady but manageable flow of visitors.

Summer energy (June to August, peak season)
Summer brings average temperatures between 24°C (75°F) and 30°C (86°F), along with warm evenings and occasional showers. This is a busy travel period, with extended daylight hours that give you more time to explore key landmarks, take day trips, and enjoy rooftop or terrace venues.

Autumn and winter charm (September to February, low season)
Autumn starts mild, around 18°C (64°F), before cooling towards winter averages close to 0°C (32°F) and below. Clear, crisp days are common, and the cooler months offer a quieter atmosphere at many attractions, rewarding you with spacious parks and calmer city streets.

Frequently Asked Questions