Great Wall at Mutianyu
Walk restored ramparts over forested ridges, with a toboggan ride down.
Beijing
China's imperial capital holds the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven and centuries-old hutong alleyways, with the Great Wall climbing the mountains just beyond the city. It is ranked #30 on Time Out's Best Cities 2026 list.
- Metro population
- 21,500,000
- Country
- China
- Region
- Asia
Overview
Why visit Beijing
Beijing has been China's capital for much of the last 700 years, and the Ming-era monuments still dominate. The Forbidden City, home to 24 emperors, is the largest palace complex on Earth, facing the vast expanse of Tiananmen Square.
The city's soul lives in its hutongs, the narrow lanes of courtyard homes radiating from the old centre. Around Houhai's lakes, rickshaws, teahouses and snack stalls keep the neighbourhood feel alive, while the 798 Art District and Sanlitun show Beijing's modern side.
The Great Wall is the day trip everyone comes for. The restored Mutianyu section, about 90 minutes away, winds over forested ridges with far fewer crowds than Badaling. Back in the city, order Peking duck, roasted to a crackle and wrapped in pancakes, a dish perfected for the imperial court.
Things to do
Top things to book in Beijing
Popular tours and tickets. Compare prices and book ahead to skip the lines.
Forbidden City Tour
Explore the imperial palace with a guide and skip the confusion.
Peking Duck Dinner
Taste the city's signature roast duck at a classic restaurant.
Hutong Rickshaw Tour
Weave the old alleyways and courtyard homes by rickshaw.
Plan your trip
Compare prices for Beijing
Pick your dates once and search hotels, homes, flights and tours on every major site.
Compare two at a time
Side by side in Beijing
Tour prices change by date and group size, so each site opens with your search ready to check today's price.
Starting prices checked on Nov 9 on each company's site. Prices depend on age, country and dates; confirm before you buy.
We may earn a commission when you book through our links, at no extra cost to you.
Fun facts
Things you didn't know about Beijing
- 01
Home To 24 Emperors
The Forbidden City was the imperial palace for the Ming and Qing dynasties from 1420 until 1912.
- 02
The Great Wall Next Door
The Mutianyu section of the Great Wall lies in the mountains about 70 kilometres from the city centre.
- 03
Seven UNESCO Sites
Beijing has seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven and Summer Palace.
- 04
First Double Olympic City
Beijing is the first city to host both the Summer Olympics, in 2008, and the Winter Olympics, in 2022.
- 05
A Square For A Million
Tiananmen Square is one of the largest public squares in the world, built to hold a million people.
- 06
Ancient Alleyways
Some hutong lanes date back more than 700 years, though many have been lost to redevelopment.
- 07
Peking Duck
The city's signature dish has been roasted in Beijing for around 600 years, first served to emperors.
- 08
3,000 Years Old
A settlement has stood on this site for over three millennia, and the city has been a capital under five dynasties.
- 09
The Bird'S Nest
The lattice-steel National Stadium, nicknamed the Bird's Nest, held the opening ceremonies of both Olympic Games.
- 10
Temple Of Heaven
The circular Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests was built entirely without nails.
Random Beijing fact
Tap the button for a random fact about Beijing.
FAQ
Quick answers about Beijing
Where is Beijing located?
Beijing is in China, in Asia.
What is the population of Beijing?
The greater Beijing area is home to about 21,500,000 people.
What is Beijing famous for?
China's imperial capital holds the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven and centuries-old hutong alleyways, with the Great Wall climbing the mountains just beyond the city.
Is Beijing worth visiting?
Yes — Beijing was ranked #30 on Time Out's Best Cities 2026 list. Explore its facts, attractions and top things to book on this page.
Did IShowSpeed stream from Beijing?
Yes — IShowSpeed streamed from Beijing on his 2025 China tour, including his viral Great Wall backflip. See his full world tour map.
Enjoying Famous Cities?
If these guides helped you plan a trip, or just daydream about one, you can say thanks with a coffee. Every bit keeps the site independent and free.