Beijing, China’s vibrant capital, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and modern marvels. Whether you’re drawn to ancient palaces, scenic wonders, or mouthwatering cuisine, this city has it all. In this guide, we’ll dive into the 8 best Beijing tourist highlights, complete with prices, to help you plan an unforgettable trip. From the iconic Great Wall to the cuddly pandas at Beijing Zoo, these attractions offer something for everyone—history buffs, families, and food lovers alike. Let’s explore!
1. The Forbidden City (Palace Museum)
The Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum, is the heart of Beijing’s historical legacy. Once home to 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties, this UNESCO World Heritage site boasts over 9,000 rooms and sprawling courtyards1. It’s a living museum of Chinese architecture and imperial life.
- Price: High season (April to October): 60 RMB; Low season (November to March): 40 RMB
- Best for: History enthusiasts and families (be ready for lots of walking)
- Best months to visit: April, May, September, October
Walking through its grand gates feels like stepping into a history book. The red walls and golden roofs tell tales of power and tradition. According to Travel China Guide, it’s one of the most visited sites in China—and for good reason2.
Tip: Book tickets online up to seven days ahead via the official website to skip the lines. Wear comfy shoes—you’ll need them!
2. Mutianyu Great Wall
No trip to Beijing is complete without the Great Wall, and the Mutianyu section is a standout. Less crowded than Badaling, it offers breathtaking views of rolling hills and well-preserved watchtowers. It’s a perfect mix of history and nature.
- Price: Entrance: 40 RMB; Cable car (round trip): 120 RMB (adults), 60 RMB (children)
- Best for: Outdoor lovers and families (cable car available for accessibility)
- Best months to visit: April, May, September, October
Imagine standing atop a structure that’s stretched across mountains for centuries.
Tip: For a thrill, try the toboggan slide down—it’s a fun twist on your Great Wall adventure!
3. Temple of Heaven
The Temple of Heaven is where emperors once prayed for bountiful harvests. Its circular design and serene park setting make it a peaceful retreat from Beijing’s bustle. Today, it’s also a spot to see locals practicing tai chi.
- Price: High season (April to October): 25 RMB; Low season (November to March): 15 RMB
- Best for: Cultural explorers and families
- Best months to visit: April, May, September, October
The temple’s blue-tiled roof symbolizes the sky—a nod to its spiritual roots. Beijing Government Park Tours suggests visiting at dawn to catch the tai chi sessions.
Tip: Check out the Echo Wall—whisper on one side, and your voice magically travels to the other!
4. Summer Palace
The Summer Palace is a masterpiece of Chinese landscaping, with Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill stealing the show. Built as a royal retreat, it’s now a haven for anyone seeking beauty and tranquility.
- Price: Entrance: High season 30 RMB, Low season 20 RMB; All-inclusive ticket: High season 60 RMB, Low season 50 RMB
- Best for: Nature lovers and families (expect some walking)
- Best months to visit: March to May (spring blooms), September to October (autumn hues)
Picture this: a boat gliding across the lake, framed by willow trees and ancient pagodas. The Summer Palace Official Website recommends the all-inclusive ticket for full access to gems like the Tower of Buddhist Incense.
Tip: Rent a paddleboat for a relaxing lake experience—it’s worth it.
5. Tiananmen Square
Tiananmen Square is the world’s largest public square and a symbol of China’s past and present. Flanked by landmarks like the Great Hall of the People, it’s a place where history feels alive.
- Price: Free
- Best for: History buffs and all ages (can get crowded during holidays)
- Best months to visit: April to June, September to October
Standing here, you’re at the crossroads of centuries. China Discovery notes its significance as a must-see for first-timers3.
Tip: Arrive early to beat the crowds, and brace yourself for security checks.
6. Hutong Rickshaw Tour
Beijing’s hutongs—narrow, traditional alleyways—offer a peek into the city’s past. A rickshaw tour takes you through these charming lanes, past courtyard homes and local markets.
- Price: 100-200 RMB (varies by tour operator)
- Best for: Cultural explorers and all ages
- Best months to visit: April to June, September to October
It’s like pedaling through a time capsule, with every corner revealing a slice of old Beijing. Tour-Beijing praises it as a top cultural experience4.
Tip: Pair your tour with a stop at Nanluoguxiang, a lively hutong with shops and cafes.
7. Quanjude Peking Duck
Peking duck is Beijing’s culinary crown jewel, and Quanjude has been perfecting it since 1864. The crispy skin and juicy meat, wrapped in thin pancakes, are a foodie’s dream.
- Price: Whole duck: ~200 RMB; Half duck: ~99 RMB
- Best for: Food lovers and families
- Best months to visit: Year-round (pairs well with spring or fall sightseeing)
One bite, and you’ll understand why it’s a Beijing staple. TripAdvisor Reviews rave about Quanjude’s unbeatable flavor5.
Tip: Reserve a table ahead of time, especially during peak seasons.
8. Beijing Zoo (Panda House)
The Beijing Zoo is a hit with families, thanks to its giant pandas. With over 450 species, it’s a fun and educational stop, but those adorable pandas steal the spotlight.
- Price: Zoo entrance: High season 15 RMB, Low season 10 RMB; With Panda House: High season 19 RMB, Low season 14 RMB
- Best for: Families with kids
- Best months to visit: March to May, September to October
Watching a panda munch bamboo is pure joy. Beijing Government Park Tours highlights it as a top family outing6.
Tip: Visit in the morning when the pandas are most active.
Quick Reference Table
Here’s a handy breakdown of the Beijing tourist highlights and their costs:
| Highlight | Price (RMB) | Best for | Best Months |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forbidden City | 60 (high), 40 (low) | History buffs, families | Apr, May, Sep, Oct |
| Mutianyu Great Wall | 40 (entrance), 120 (cable car) | Outdoor lovers, families | Apr, May, Sep, Oct |
| Temple of Heaven | 25 (high), 15 (low) | Cultural explorers, families | Apr, May, Sep, Oct |
| Summer Palace | 30/20 (entrance), 60/50 (all-inclusive) | Nature lovers, families | Mar-May, Sep-Oct |
| Tiananmen Square | Free | History buffs, all ages | Apr-Jun, Sep-Oct |
| Hutong Rickshaw Tour | 100-200 | Cultural explorers, all ages | Apr-Jun, Sep-Oct |
| Quanjude Peking Duck | ~200 (whole), ~99 (half) | Foodies, families | Year-round |
| Beijing Zoo (Panda House) | 15/10 (zoo), 19/14 (with pandas) | Families with kids | Mar-May, Sep-Oct |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: When’s the best time to visit Beijing tourist highlights?
A: Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to October) offer mild weather—perfect for exploring outdoors (Read more: Best Month to Visit Beijing: Quick Guide).
Q: Are there free attractions in Beijing?
A: Yes! Tiananmen Square is free, though nearby sites like the Forbidden City have fees.
Q: How do I book Forbidden City tickets?
A: Go online to the official website and book up to seven days in advance.
Q: Is the Great Wall doable for people with mobility issues?
A: Absolutely—Mutianyu’s cable car makes it accessible for everyone.
Q: Where’s the best spot for Peking duck?
A: Quanjude is a classic choice with a long-standing reputation.
Beijing blends the old and the new like few cities can. From the awe-inspiring Forbidden City to the tasty thrill of Peking duck, these eight highlights capture the essence of this incredible capital. Spring and autumn are your best bets for pleasant weather, so pack your bags and get ready to explore. Whether you’re snapping photos atop the Great Wall or watching pandas play, Beijing promises memories that last a lifetime. Happy travels!
Source:
- https://www.britannica.com/topic/Forbidden-City ↩︎
- https://www.travelchinaguide.com/cityguides/beijing/forbidden.htm ↩︎
- https://www.chinadiscovery.com/beijing/tiananmen-square.html ↩︎
- https://www.tour-beijing.com/hutong/ ↩︎
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g294212-d1052779-Reviews-Quanjude_Roast_Duck_Wangfujing-Beijing.html ↩︎
- https://english.beijing.gov.cn/specials/parktours/guidevisitors/beijingzoo/overview/202301/t20230112_2897180.html ↩︎
