What to do in Beijing: must-see spots and hidden gems
- theordinaryallure
- Feb 16
- 6 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
What to do in Beijing: must-see spots and hidden gems to experience China's capital cool vibes
[Last updated: October 1, 2025]
They say Beijing "is all about government", and honestly, that was our first impression. The city has unusual vibes, it feels almost too orderly and the nightlife doesn’t compare to other big cities.
But once you know where to look, Beijing reveals a fascinating, unexpected side — a more underground, vibrant reality 🔥.
Here’s a guide to the places truly worth visiting — because trust me, Beijing has its own hidden charm.
Let's go
Not sure how to vibe your China trip? Chill, we got you covered—here you can find our travel essentials for exploring China stress-free. 🌟✈️
The Great Wall of China
Let’s start with the most iconic. The Great Wall of China needs no introduction — it’s a bucket-list experience. There are several spots to visit, varying in crowd levels, accessibility, and ruggedness.
💡 Pro tip: if you’re into trekking and want the most breathtaking views, Jinshanling is said to be the best section.
We chose Mutianyu — a perfect balance between stunning scenery and convenience. About an hour and a half from Beijing, it offers incredible views, an easy hike, and way fewer crowds than the popular Badaling section.
How to get there
🚕 DiDi (China's Uber), the comfiest option. Negotiate a round-trip fare in advance; not the cheapest, but a huge time-saver.
🚌 Public Transport, budget-friendly but more time-consuming and tiring.
🫶🏻 Good to know
book in advance on Trip.com for a combo ticket including the shuttle bus and cable car — great if you want to skip the ticket line.
once you arrive at the entrance, you have three ways up: on foot, via cable car, or by chairlift (less crowded and leads straight to the most relaxed section).
toboggan ride down? Cool, but:
buy the ticket separately at the entrance.
after exploring the Wall, head to the chairlift entrance (if you took the cable car, go to the right section’s end);
expect long lines.
Go early to beat the crowds.
Prices are higher than average in China, but absolutely worth it.
💗 What we loved: jaw-dropping views, unique vibes, and a strong energy filled with history.
Forbidden City
Pure magic. 💫 Right in the heart of Beijing, it is a city within a city. Forget the Instagram pics — it’s a whole different vibe in person! A maze of stunning, majestic buildings. Once the emperor’s domain, this was where concubines schemed to bear a male heir and secure power — a mix of wealth, politics, and drama worthy of a reality show.
🫶🏻 Good to Know
reservations required at least one day in advance (on the official site bookings open 7 days in advance );
passport needed for entry.
💗 What we loved: stepping into another era and the sheer grandeur of the architecture.
Tiananmen Square
Tiananmen Square is one of the biggest public squares in the world and a total icon of Chinese history and culture. Right in the heart of Beijing, it’s surrounded by legendary spots like the National Museum of China and Mao Zedong’s Mausoleum — basically where history and politics collide IRL.
🫶🏻 Good to know
Hours: mostly open all day, but for places like Mao’s Mausoleum there are specific times and security checks. During ceremonies or holidays, some access might be limited.
Access: free, but you need to register at least 24h in advance. You can do it on WeChat (search 天安门广场 and use the translation feature) or on platforms like Trip.com.
Tip: hit it at sunrise or sunset — fewer tourists and perfect light for pics.
💡 Pro tip: every morning and evening there’s the flag-raising/lowering ceremony, super Instagrammable and open to everyone. While you’re there, the Forbidden City is just a short walk away.
💗 What we loved: this square is HUGE — walking through it, you instantly feel in the middle of Beijing’s power game.
Lama Temple (Yonghe Gong) and Temple of Heaven (Tian Tian)
Lama Temple: a peaceful oasis in the city’s chaos. The scent of incense, golden architecture, and spiritual energy make it a multi-sensory experience. Don’t miss the giant wooden Buddha at the Pavillion of Ten Thousand Happinesses. Post-visit? Browse Tibetan shops for a spiritual souvenir. 🌿
Temple of Heaven: surrounded by a massive park, it’s the perfect spot to soak in local culture — musicians playing traditional instruments, elders playing cards, and locals practicing tai chi. The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, with its intricate blue and gold details, reflects sunlight beautifully. If you’re lucky enough to catch a sunset here, it’s a moment to remember. 🌅
🫶🏻 Good to Know
no need to book in advance
dress code: stylish but respectful.
be mindful, spirituality is part of the experience.
💗 What we loved: the atmosphere, the intense scent of incense, and the vibrant colors.
Summer Palace
The Summer Palace is a real gem – the ultimate escape from city chaos, and basically the emperors’ version of The Hamptons. Perfectly manicured gardens, huge lakes, and that dreamy mix of nature and history. 🌿✨
🫶🏻 Good to know
Tickets: it’s best to book in advance, especially during peak season. You can get them via WeChat (official channel, but a bit tricky) or more easily on sites like Trip.com.
Opening hours: from April to October, the entrance is open until 7 PM; in winter it closes a bit earlier. Always double-check online for updated times (here).
How to get there: Metro line 4 (Beigongmen or Xiyuan stop) or just grab a taxi/DiDi if you want to skip the hassle.
💗 What we loved: the contrast between imperial architecture and nature, with plenty of corners that are super Instagram-friendly.
Hutongs: wandering through Beijing's hidden alleys
Beijing has its towering skyscrapers and bustling highways. But then there’s the hidden side — the hutongs, the city’s historic alleyways. 🍃
Here, the real Beijing unfolds: a mix of tradition and modernity. Stop by a minimalist tea house, explore local food markets, browse unique boutiques, or stumble upon art galleries and tiny bars.
💗 Hutongs we loved: first, Nanluoguxiang – hipster and retro, packed with everything from perfumes and cosmetics to action figures and bakeries. Wudaoying – quieter, ideal for exploring concept stores and cozy cafés. Qianmen Hutongs – winding alleys filled with lanterns, markets, and restaurants.
💡 Pro Tip: need a break from exploring Qianmen Hutongs? Head to the massive Starbucks Reserve for a coffee or drink.
Cool shopping: luxury brands, pop up stores and vintage markets
Aside from boutique-hopping in the hutongs, don’t miss:
🛍️ Wangfujing street – a pedestrian street blending high fashion and street vibes. International brands (hello, Charlotte Tilbury!) meet kitschy souvenir stalls.
🛍️ Taikoo Li Sanlitun – a luxury shopping mecca. Acne Studios, Toteme, Diptyque, Byredo, Apple, plus pop-up stores from emerging designers. And definitely check out To Summer, an ultra-cool Chinese perfume brand with aesthetic packaging.
🛍️ Panjiayuan Antique Market – a paradise for vintage lovers. Find ceramics, Chinese furniture, and gemstone jewelry. Bargaining is a must!
🛍️ Quianmen street – historic avenue selling artisanal goods, premium teas, and traditional Chinese medicine.
💗 What we loved: To Summer’s hand cream and solid perfumes, stunning packaging! 😍
Nightlife
Okay, let’s be real — if you’re looking for NYC or Berlin-style nightlife, you might be disappointed. But if you’re open to a chiller, more authentic experience, Beijing’s nightlife has its charm.
🍸 Where to go: 🌟 Sanlitun – Beijing’s go-to district for fashion lovers, foodies, and night owls. Perfect for a chic cocktail or trendy dinner. 🌟 Houhai Bar Street – live music bars featuring young, talented local singers. 🌟 Peking Duck is a must – Quanjude and Da Dong are the places to go for a traditional dinner. 🌟 For an elegant yet affordable gourmet dinner, Poetry Wine Solo in Nanshengou Hutong (Qianmen) is a dream. It’s part of the Michelin-starred Poetry Wine family.
Where to stay
Beijing is huge—you won’t find a location where you can walk everywhere. Distances are massive.
✨ First time in Beijing? Dongcheng, Wangfujing, and Qianmen are top picks because you’re right in the heart of the city, surrounded by iconic street food and all the must-see spots just steps away.
🍹 Love nightlife and international vibes? Chaoyang and Sanlitun are your playground: epic cocktails, clubs, and super shopping.
🌿 More chill and culture obsessed? Go for Xicheng (maybe near Shichahai) or Haidian—they’ll make you fall in love with green parks, hidden cafés, and authentic corners like a true local. 📸💛
We stayed in Dongcheng district at Howard Johnson Paragon Hotel Beijing, and we loved it. The area was charming, and the hotel was spotless and stylish.
💗 What we loved: the prices! Even over New Year’s, 4-star hotels in great neighborhoods, with spacious, clean rooms, were surprisingly affordable.
Beijing isn’t like other cities, but once you crack its code, it’s fascinating and full of surprises. Ready to go? 💥 When you’re back, tell us your favorite spots! 💕