Flights from Munich (MUC) to Beijing (BJS)

About Beijing

Discover Beijing

Why visit Beijing?
Beijing is a dynamic capital where grand imperial landmarks sit alongside bold contemporary architecture and creative districts. You can explore vast palaces, leafy lakes, and hutong alleyways, then end the day in lively neighbourhoods filled with cafés and local eateries.

What to expect
The city is centred around broad avenues and historic ring roads, with key sights such as Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the lakes of Shichahai defining its core. Districts like Chaoyang and Sanlitun offer modern malls, cultural venues, and international options, while traditional quarters preserve a slower-paced atmosphere.

Plan your trip
Beijing works well as both a standalone city break and a starting point for exploring northern China. From here, you can reach several Great Wall sections, as well as high-speed rail links to other major cities. Allow enough days to balance landmark visits with time to wander neighbourhoods at your own pace.

Top sights in Beijing

Forbidden City

Walk through the vast courtyards, gates, and halls of this former imperial palace complex, set at the heart of Beijing.

Tiananmen Square

Visit one of the world’s largest public squares, framed by monumental buildings and wide open space.

Temple of Heaven Park

Stroll among ancient ceremonial halls and expansive parkland, where locals gather to exercise and socialise.

Summer Palace

Explore lakes, pavilions, and shaded walkways in this historic retreat, known for its scenic views and hilltop vistas.

Great Wall at Mutianyu

Take a day trip to this well-preserved section of the Great Wall, with sweeping mountain views and walking trails.

Houhai and Shichahai Lakes

Enjoy a lakeside walk or boat ride, then explore nearby hutong lanes lined with cafés and restored courtyards.

798 Art District

Discover contemporary galleries, outdoor installations, and creative shops in a former industrial complex turned arts hub.

Jingshan Park

Climb the central hill for a panoramic view over the Forbidden City’s rooftops and the surrounding cityscape.

Experience Beijing’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Beijing’s extensive metro network is usually the quickest way to move between major sights and business districts. Taxis and app-based rides are useful late at night or when travelling with luggage. Within historic areas, walking or cycling offers an intimate way to explore hutongs and lakeside paths.

Local life & culture
Neighbourhood parks are central to daily life, with residents gathering in the mornings and evenings to exercise, chat, or enjoy music. Around the hutongs, you will find a mix of traditional courtyard homes and small creative spaces. Modern districts host galleries, performance venues, and cultural events throughout the year.

Where to unwind
For quieter moments, seek out the city’s large parks and lakes, where tree-lined paths and pavilions create a relaxed atmosphere. Early mornings and late afternoons are especially pleasant, with softer light and cooler temperatures. In winter, some lakes transform into outdoor activity spots when conditions allow.

A taste of Beijing

Street food & local specialties
Beijing is known for hearty northern flavours, from hand-pulled noodles to savoury pancakes and dumplings. Traditional neighbourhoods and small side streets reveal simple eateries and snack stalls, where you can sample local staples in a relaxed setting.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Modern districts such as Sanlitun and areas around major shopping centres offer a wide range of casual restaurants and cafés. You can choose from regional Chinese cuisines and international flavours, with smaller plates and shared dishes making it easy to try a variety of tastes in one meal.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable evening, consider restaurants with views over city landmarks or set within restored courtyards. Some venues near the lakes or in high-rise buildings combine atmospheric settings with refined menus, creating a special backdrop for a business dinner or celebration.

Retail therapy in Beijing

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Central Beijing features modern malls that combine international brands, local designers, cinemas, and dining in one place. Areas such as Wangfujing and Sanlitun are popular for their mix of fashion, lifestyle stores, and comfortable indoor spaces where you can take a break between sights.

Markets & local crafts
Traditional-style streets and smaller markets are good places to browse for handicrafts, tea, textiles, and design pieces. Neighbourhoods around Dashilan, Nanluoguxiang, and Panjiayuan are known for stalls and boutiques where you can find everything from souvenirs to more contemporary local labels.

Evening retail scene
After dark, illuminated shopping streets and lively pedestrian areas give the city a different energy. Many malls and commercial streets remain open into the evening, making it easy to combine dinner and shopping. Public transport and taxis provide convenient access back to your hotel at the end of the night.

Best time to visit Beijing

Spring bloom (March to May, shoulder season)
Spring in Beijing sees gradually warming days, with average temperatures around 10–20°C (50–68°F). Trees and parks come back to life, making it a pleasant time for outdoor sightseeing and exploring historic gardens and lakes.

Summer heat (June to August, peak season)
Summer brings warm to hot weather, with averages of 25–30°C (77–86°F) and higher daytime peaks. Longer daylight hours suit full-day excursions, including trips to the Great Wall, as well as evening walks when the city streets are lively.

Autumn clarity (September to November, peak season)
Autumn is often clear and crisp, with typical temperatures of 10–20°C (50–68°F). The changing colours in parks and at the Great Wall provide striking scenery, and comfortable conditions make it ideal for full days of walking and exploring.

Winter chill (December to February, low season)
Winters are cold, with average temperatures from -5 to 5°C (23–41°F), but the dry air and occasional snow can create beautifully sharp views. With fewer crowds at popular sites, you can enjoy a quieter experience and a different side of the city.

Frequently Asked Questions