Ask a QuestionAs one of the most famous and tourists-attracted destinations of China, Beijing possesses various scenic sites and rich historical and cultural relics. What are the best attractions in Beijing? Best Places to visit in Beijing is aiming to give you guidance to explore the mysterious city and the world heritage sites. The Forbidden City, the Great Wall, the Temple of Heaven, the Summer Palace, Hutongs, Universal Beijing Resort etc. are all best places to visit in Beijing if it's your first time here. Additionally, we’ve put together a list of other must-see attractions such as the Lama Temple, Beijing Zoo, Qianmen Street, and the Shichahai area for travelers with different interests. We also provide a tourist map to make your visit more convenient and enjoyable.
| Top 10 to Visit--For first-timer | Historical & Cultural | Family-Friendly | Shopping & Dining | Leisure & Entertainment |
The star attraction of Beijing is the Great Wall, which was inscribed into the list of the World Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1987. Badaling and Mutianyu Sections are the most famous ones for visitors to explore.
Situated in the northwestern suburbs of Beijing, Badaling Great Wall is one of the best-preserved and most accessible sections. It was first constructed some 500 years ago during the Ming Dynasty with large and solid square rocks. With its strategic position, Badaling Section took tremendous labor and materials at taht time.
With well-equipped tourist facilities, Badaling is the first section that opened to tourists. It was a vital protective screen of Beijing city and the important military pass of Ming Dynasty in ancient times. Winding along the ridge of the mountains, Badaling Section of the Great Wall is vividly dragon-like.
If you are an incredible powerhouse, you can hike up to the top of the Great Wall. But if you do not have physical powers, you can take a cable car to go up the Great Wall to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the wall and mountains around.
Situated in Miyun County, northwestern suburbs of Beijing, Mutianyu Great Wall, which was first built in the mid-6th century during the Northern Qi, has the largest construction scale and best quality among all sections of Great Wall. Rebuilt in the late 15th century, this 2,250-meter-long, at 7-8 meters high and 4-5 meters wide with 22 watchtowers section, it was served as the northern barrier defending the capital and the imperial tombs.
Compared with other sections of Great Wall, Mutianyu Great Wall possesses unique characteristics in its construction.
• Watchtowers are densely placed along this section of the Great Wall.
• Both the outer and inner parapets are crenelated with merlons.
• The Mutianyu Pass consists of 3 watchtowers, one big in the center and two smaller on both sides.
• It is of more than 90% vegetation coverage.
Muitanyu Great Wall is also worth visiting. Compared with Badaling Great Wall, Mutianyu is less crowded. So you do not have to stand mobs of pushy people. Cable car is also available in Mutianyu Great Wall. The most popular Mutianyu Great Wall day tour: One Day Mutianyu & Forbidden City Tour.
Located in the heart of Beijing, magnificent Forbidden City, also known as the Imperial Palace Museum, is the symbol of imperial power. Built in Yongle Period, Ming Dynasty (1406 A.D. - 1420 A.D.), it is the largest and well-preserved wooden building complex of the world. These were laid out very precisely in accordance with a feudal code of architectural hierarchy which are designated specific features for reflecting the paramount authority and status of the emperor.
Forbidden City can be taken as a sample of the traditional Chinese palatial architecture. In 1987, it became a World Heritage Site. Besides, it is also listed by UNESCO as the largest collection of preserved ancient wooden structures in the world. Highly recommended day tour : One Day Beijing City Must-See Essence Tour.
First constructed in 1420 of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), Temple of Heaven was the venue for the Ming and Qing emperors to offer sacrifices to the Heaven and pray for harvest. Located at Chongwen District, it covers and area of 2.7 million square meters, is the existing largest sacrificing temple in China. Its main structure comprises Circular Vault of Heaven, Circular Mound Alter, Hall of Prayers for Good Harvest and Palace of Fast. Renowned for its precise outlay, unique architectural structures and decorations, Temple of Heaven was recorded as one World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO in 1998.
Located in the northwestern suburbs of Beijing, built in 1750, Summer Palace is the existing largest and best-preserved imperial garden, and a fine example of imperial gardening art. The Summer Palace mainly comprises Wanshou Hill that means longevity in Chinese, and Kunming Lake.
It well absorbed the creative design ideas of private gardens in southern China, Summer Palace concentrates the beauty and essence of Chinese garden architecture and boasts a large collection of valuable cultural relics. It earned a place in the World Heritage List in 1998.
A leisure stroll in winding Beijing hutongs will give you an insight into the lives of ordinary Chinese people and reveal their social culture in today's Beijing City. Hutong means a lane or alley, is in fact the passage formed by lines of Siheyuan (a compound with houses around a courtyard) where old Beijing residents live. The gray-tiled houses and deep alleys crossing with each other in identical appearance like a maze, you will find it much fun to walk through but be care not to lost yourself.
A visit to hutongs plus a drama by the Beijing People's Art Theatre, such as “Teahouse" or "SmallHutong" in the evening, will help you appreciate the fundamental part of Beijing's life. You can also take a short rickshaw Hutong tour winding around hutongs in Beijing.
Covered an area of 44,000 square meters, Tian’anmen Square is the largest urban central square in the world. With a capacity of 1 million people, it is the venue for important ceremonies. In the north of the square is Tian'an Gate, the Gate of the Heavenly Peace. The Monument to the People's Hero stands at the center of the square, facing the Memorial Hall of Chairman Mao Zedong in the south, the China National Museum in the east, and the Great Hall of the People in the west.
Solemn national flag raising and lowering ceremonies are held on the square at dawn and dark every day. When look at vivid five-star red flag in rosy down, there is heat and excitement in the heart. During in the night, the square will become more attractive with the lighting.
The above sites are "can't miss" best places to visit in Beijing. You should put them on the itinerary list while planning Beijing tour. Usually, it takes about 3-4 days to cover all those places. We would like to recommend you the best Beijing Tour that are including all above essential sites:
Located in the 44 of West Jingshan Street, Xicheng District of Beijing, Jingshan Park is the best place to have a panoramic view of the Forbidden City and the central axis of Beijing. Jingshan Park is located at the central point of the north-south central axis of the inner city of Beijing. It is the imperial garden of the Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties and was once the highest point in the center of Beijing. It used to be the place of ancestor worship of emperors of Qing Dynasty.
At Jingshan Park, you can overlook the Forbidden City, admire the wooden-structural architectures of Ming and Qing Dynasties and know about the history of these dynasties. If you do not get the tickets of the Forbidden City in Beijing, Jingshan Park is a good choice for you to overlook the Forbidden City.
Located in Tongzhou District, Universal Beijing Resort is one of the latest and largest Universal theme parks in the world, blending global blockbuster entertainment with distinct Chinese cultural elements. Covering seven immersive themed lands, including the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Jurassic World Isla Nublar, and Kung Fu Panda Land of Awesomeness, this park offers a thrilling experience for movie fans of all ages. Beyond rides and attractions, visitors can enjoy live shows, unique dining, and character meet-and-greets that make it a complete entertainment destination. With its cutting-edge design and advanced technology, it is an ideal place for families and adventure enthusiasts.
Located in the Olympic Green, the National Stadium, also known as the Bird's Nest, is a remarkable symbol of modern Beijing and the 2008 Olympic Games. Designed by renowned architects Herzog & de Meuron, it features an intricate, lattice-like steel structure that is especially striking when illuminated at night. Visitors can explore the stadium's interior to learn about its cutting-edge engineering and Olympic history, or stroll around the surrounding Olympic Park to see nearby attractions like the National Aquatics Center (Water Cube) and the Olympic Forest Park. The stadium is also a popular venue for concerts, sports events, and night tours, offering a spectacular view of Beijing's skyline.
Nightview of Bird's Nest
As one of Beijing’s must-visit attractions, the Ming Tombs are the final resting place of 13 emperors of the Ming Dynasty. Located in Changping District, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its grand architecture and sacred atmosphere. The tombs are surrounded by picturesque mountains, embodying the traditional Chinese belief in harmony between humans and nature. Visitors can explore the Sacred Way, lined with stone statues of guardians, and marvel at the underground palace of Dingling, the only tomb excavated so far. Many visitors also choose to combine a visit to the Ming Tombs with a trip to the nearby Badaling or Juyongguan sections of the Great Wall for a deeper understanding of China's ancient history.
As one of the most important Tibetan Buddhist temples in the world, the Lama Temple (Yonghe Temple) stands as a magnificent blend of Han Chinese and Tibetan architectural styles, reflecting its rich spiritual heritage. The highlight of the temple is the towering 18-meter-tall Maitreya Buddha statue, carved from a single piece of white sandalwood, recognized by the Guinness World Records as the largest of its kind.
The Lama Temple is conveniently located near several other attractions. Just across the street is the Confucius Temple and the Imperial College Museum, both worth a visit for those interested in Chinese philosophy and ancient education. About 200 meters to the north lies Ditan Park (Temple of Earth), known for its ancient trees and tranquil atmosphere. A 15-minute walk to the east leads to Dongzhimen Street, also known as 'Gui Street,' famous for its late-night food scene and lively atmosphere.
Lama Temple
Located in the heart of Beijing, Prince Gong's Mansion (Gong Wang Fu) is one of the most beautifully preserved Qing Dynasty royal residences. The mansion complex is a perfect blend of solemn imperial architecture and elegant garden landscapes, reflecting the grandeur and cultural richness of its era. The main mansion features solemn halls and intricately carved wooden structures, while the surrounding gardens are renowned for their picturesque scenery, complete with winding corridors, serene ponds, and lush greenery. As you wander through the mansion, you can imagine the splendor and prestige of the high-ranking officials who once lived here.
The National Museum of China is the ultimate destination for those eager to explore China's extensive history and cultural achievements. As one of the largest museums in the world, it boasts over a million cultural relics, including ancient bronzes, stunning jade carvings, and priceless artifacts like the famous Houmuwu Ding, the world's largest ancient bronze vessel, the intricately designed Four Ram Zun, and the exquisite jade burial suits. With its vast collections, the museum offers an unparalleled journey through China's 5,000-year-old civilization, it’s an essential stop for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
Located in the Olympic Park area, the China Science and Technology Museum is a good place for families and science enthusiasts alike. The museum has five main exhibition halls: "Science Paradise" for young children, "Glory of China" showcasing ancient scientific achievements, "Exploration and Discovery" focusing on scientific principles, "Science and Life" highlighting modern technologies, and "Challenge and Future" inspiring innovation. In addition to the interactive exhibits, the museum also houses a range of special effect theaters, including a 4D cinema, an IMAX dome theater, a motion theater, and a giant screen theater, providing a truly immersive educational experience.
As one of the oldest zoos in China, Beijing Zoo is renowned for its vast collection of animals and picturesque classical Chinese gardens. It is home to over 5,000 animals representing more than 450 species, including the world-famous giant pandas, which are the zoo’s most popular residents. In addition to the pandas, visitors can see rare and exotic species such as Siberian tigers, golden monkeys, snow leopards, and Chinese alligators. The zoo is also known for its beautiful seasonal scenery, including vibrant peony blossoms in late April to early May and stunning lotus flowers in the summer, creating a tranquil atmosphere for a leisurely stroll.
Additionally, Beijing Zoo is conveniently located just outside Xizhimen in Beijing. Its front gate is close to the Beijing Exhibition Center, while the back gate is near the Five Pagodas Temple (Wuta Si), allowing visitors to explore multiple attractions in one trip if they have a full day. The Beijing Aquarium is also located within the zoo grounds. As a perfect finale to the visit, travelers can even take a boat ride directly to the South Ruyi Gate of the Summer Palace (Yiheyuan).
Overall, this area is ideal for family trips and animal lovers, offering great value for money, easy transportation access, and a wonderful opportunity to discover wildlife while enjoying a relaxing day out.
Qianmen Street, located just south of Tiananmen Square, is one of Beijing's oldest and most famous commercial streets. This bustling pedestrian street is lined with traditional architecture, creating a nostalgic atmosphere that captures the essence of old Beijing. It is home to many time-honored brands and eateries, here, you can sample authentic Beijing flavors, such as the famously pungent Yin San Douzhi (a fermented mung bean drink), the iconic Peking roast duck at Quanjude, and the hearty Zhajiangmian (noodles with soybean paste) from Fangzhuanchang. If you're curious about Beijing's unique local tastes, try the Douzhi Ice Cream at Yin San Douzhi – its flavor might be an acquired taste, with a slightly sour and fermented note, but it quickly gives way to a surprisingly creamy finish.
There is also Lao She Teahouse where you can enjoy local Beijing operas and other cultural performances. In the middle of Qianmen Street and Zhengyang Gate, there is a bus for night tours of Chang'an Avenue.
As one of Beijing’s most iconic landmarks, Sanlitun is a vibrant hub of fashion, dining, and nightlife, known for its high-end boutiques, stylish architecture, and bustling bar scene. This trendy district is a magnet for both locals and international visitors, offering a taste of modern Beijing’s dynamic lifestyle.
Sanlitun is divided into two main sections: the upscale Taikoo Li North, which features luxury brands like Gucci, Dior, and Balenciaga, and the more casual Taikoo Li South, known for its trendy streetwear stores and popular international chains. The area is also home to numerous stylish cafes, rooftop bars, and Instagrammable spots, making it a favorite destination for fashion enthusiasts and social media influencers.
Wangfujing, located east of the Forbidden City, refers to the area centered around Wangfujing Street – a historic shopping destination in Beijing renowned for its concentration of large-scale shopping malls. The district features a vibrant food street with diverse regional cuisines and the iconic Wangfujing Catholic Church, making it a popular hub for shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. Beyond its commercial appeal, the area serves as a tourist zone with nearby landmarks including the Forbidden City’s East Glorious Gate (Donghua Men), the palace moat, and the former residence of Lao She, all within walking distance. Wangfujing Street now operates as a pedestrian-only thoroughfare, ensuring a comfortable vehicle-free environment for visitors
Located about 35 kilometers northwest of central Beijing, Fragrant Hills Park is a renowned scenic area famous for its stunning autumn foliage. Every fall, the park's vibrant red maple leaves attract thousands of visitors, creating a breathtaking natural spectacle. In addition to its beautiful landscapes, the park is home to several historic temples, pavilions, and cultural relics, offering a rich blend of nature and history. The park also features ancient trees, serene lakes, and winding mountain paths, making it a great destination for hiking and photography. For those looking to relax, the park has various amenities, including teahouses, restaurants, and souvenir shops, providing a comfortable rest stop during your visit.
Beihai Park, one of Beijing’s oldest and best-preserved imperial gardens, is a picturesque retreat known for its classical Chinese landscaping, serene lake, and iconic White Dagoba, which stands proudly atop Jade Flower Island. The park is divided into four main areas: the northern shore, eastern shore, Jade Flower Island, and the Round City. Highlights include the Nine-Dragon Screen, Five-Dragon Pavilion, and the tranquil boating experience on the lake, especially in summer when the lotus blossoms are in full bloom. With its rich history, beautiful scenery, and convenient access (just a short walk from Beihai North Station on Metro Line 6), Beihai Park is a must-visit for those seeking a blend of culture and nature in the heart of Beijing.
Shichahai, comprising three picturesque lakes – Qianhai, Houhai, and Xihai – is one of Beijing’s most charming historic districts. Known for its scenic waterfront, centuries-old hutongs, and vibrant nightlife, it’s a perfect spot for a day of cultural exploration and an evening of lively entertainment. The area is home to numerous historic sites, including former residences of famous Chinese figures and traditional courtyards. Visitors can enjoy boating in summer, ice skating in winter, and bar hopping along the bustling Houhai Bar Street year-round. Its proximity to other iconic attractions like Nanluoguxiang, Beihai Park, Jingshan Park, the Forbidden City, and Tiananmen Square makes it a convenient stop for those exploring central Beijing.
Map of Beijing Attractions
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