About Beijing
Beijing is China's capital, laid out around the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square. The Temple of Heaven and the Summer Palace show the scale of imperial building. Older hutong lanes around Houhai and Nanluoguxiang survive between broad modern boulevards.
The city suits trips centered on Chinese history. Sections of the Great Wall at Mutianyu and Badaling lie within a day trip, and the Lama Temple and 798 Art District add variety. Beijing also pairs with Xi'an and Shanghai on longer routes by high-speed rail.
Why travelers love it
Top attractions
2 Beijing itineraries
Beijing questions
Is 5 days enough for Beijing?
Five days covers Beijing's main sites with time for the Great Wall. Use the metro and book Forbidden City tickets online as soon as they open, seven days ahead. The Forbidden City is closed on Mondays.
Do I need to book Terracotta Army tickets ahead?
Book Terracotta Army tickets online at least three days in advance. The site opens at 8:30 and entry costs 120 yuan.
How long is the high-speed train from Beijing to Xi'an?
The high-speed train from Beijing to Xi'an takes 4.5 hours. Book second class seats through the official app for about 500 yuan and depart from Beijing West station.
Is Zhujiajiao worth a day trip from Shanghai?
Zhujiajiao works as a half-day trip on Metro Line 17, about an hour from central Shanghai. Walking the town is free; some sights and boat rides charge separately.
Is 7 days enough for Beijing, Xi'an and Shanghai?
Seven days covers the main sites with one day for travel between cities. Book high-speed train tickets at least ten days ahead.
Do I need to book Mutianyu Great Wall tickets in advance?
Buy Mutianyu tickets online the day before to skip the line. Add the round-trip cable car fee if you want to reduce walking.