10 Best Things to Do When You're Visiting Beijing

Just a short flight from Malaysia, Beijing is where history meets hustle—a city that surprises you at every turn. The moment I arrived at Tiananmen Square and gazed across the Forbidden City, I could feel the weight of centuries under my feet. It’s like Melaka times a thousand—bigger, deeper, and layered with both imperial elegance and modern ambition.

And the food? Next level. From smoky Beijing roast duck to sizzling street snacks in hidden hutongs, the city’s culinary scene is a blend of bold flavors and cozy traditions. Add in those majestic landmarks, scenic parks, bustling markets, and sleek rooftop bars? Confirm worth the trip.

Whether you’re wandering palace grounds, sipping jasmine tea in a courtyard café, or hunting for vintage finds in Gulou, Beijing always delivers something unforgettable.

1. Stand in Awe at the Forbidden City

Stepping into the Forbidden City felt like stepping into a living scroll painting. The sheer scale is jaw-dropping—massive red gates, golden rooftops, and ornate carvings as far as the eye can see. As I wandered through the courtyards and halls once reserved for emperors, I couldn’t help but feel the silent echoes of dynasties past.

📖 About Forbidden City

Once home to emperors for over 500 years, this UNESCO site is the world’s largest imperial palace complex.

📅 Best Time to Visit

Morning or late afternoon (less crowded and better lighting for photos)

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly?

Yes! Educational and awe-inspiring for all ages

💡 Pro Tips

• ✔️ Book tickets online in advance (daily limits apply)
• ✔️ Don’t miss the Hall of Clocks or Imperial Garden
• ✔️ Wear comfy shoes—it’s a huge area to explore

2. Hike the Great Wall at Mutianyu

Nothing prepares you for that first glimpse of the Great Wall snaking over endless mountains. I chose the Mutianyu section—it’s less crowded than Badaling and more scenic. The cable car ride up gave me a bird’s eye view, but the real thrill came from hiking between the towers, wind in my face and history underfoot.

📖 About the Great Wall (Mutianyu)

This restored section offers breathtaking views and fewer tourists, perfect for first-time visitors.

📅 Best Time to Visit

Spring or autumn for clear skies and mild weather

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly?

Yes—cable cars and toboggan rides make it fun for all ages

💡 Pro Tips

• ✔️ Go early to avoid the crowds
• ✔️ Bring snacks and water—few shops on-site
• ✔️ Wear layers—it gets windy on the Wall

3. Explore Tiananmen Square and Watch the Flag Ceremony

I arrived just before sunrise, the air crisp and still. A quiet crowd had already gathered, bundled in jackets, their faces turned toward the giant red flag fluttering faintly in the early morning breeze. As the first rays of sunlight peeked over the rooftops, the marching footsteps of the honor guard echoed across the vast expanse of Tiananmen Square. The solemn rise of the flag was synchronized perfectly with the national anthem, and in that moment, I felt the gravity of standing in one of the most politically and historically significant places in China. Around me, the square slowly came to life—vendors setting up, security checks humming, and the soft rustle of flags flapping in the breeze. It was more than a ceremony—it was an experience steeped in emotion, pride, and cultural meaning.

📖 About Tiananmen Square

Tiananmen Square is one of the largest public squares in the world, a central site of China’s modern history and a must-visit place in Beijing for those interested in national heritage.

📅 Best Time:

Just before sunrise for the flag-raising ceremony

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly:

Yes, suitable for all ages. The square is flat and stroller/wheelchair accessible, though early hours may be challenging for young children or elderly visitors.

💡 Pro Tips

• ✔️ Bring ID—security checks required
• ✔️ Combine with a visit to the Forbidden City (just north)
• ✔️ Be respectful during national ceremonies

4. Wander Through the Hutongs of Beijing

I found myself strolling through the narrow alleys of a Beijing hutong just as the afternoon sun dipped low, casting golden light on grey brick walls. The air smelled of sizzling scallion pancakes and old wood warmed by the day’s sun. Elderly locals sat outside playing cards, radios buzzed with Beijing opera, and bicycles clinked past, baskets overflowing with groceries. I ducked into a hidden courtyard teahouse, where birds chirped from hanging cages and steam curled up from clay teapots. It felt intimate and timeless, like I’d stepped into a living postcard. The pace slowed. The city noise faded. It was the most authentic glimpse of Beijing life I’d had all trip.

📖 What Makes This Activity Special?

Beijing’s hutongs are centuries-old alleyways that preserve the city’s cultural roots—perfect for those looking to experience real, local life beyond tourist spots.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Yes, great for older kids and adults; narrow lanes may not suit strollers or wheelchairs

💡 Pro Tips

• ✔️Bring cash for snacks and small shops
• ✔️ Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds
• ✔️Wear comfortable shoes—some paths are uneven

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5. Feast on Beijing Roast Duck

The scent of roasted duck hit me the moment I walked into Quanjude. Aromatic, rich, and mouthwatering. Soon, a chef in crisp whites rolled over a whole golden-brown duck and expertly carved paper-thin slices table-side. I picked up a warm pancake, added a sliver of duck, cucumber, scallion, and a smear of sweet bean sauce—then took a bite. The crispiness of the skin, the tenderness of the meat, the sweetness of the sauce—it was pure perfection. Locals chatted around me, waiters poured hot jasmine tea, and the hum of conversation made the entire experience feel warm and celebratory. It was more than just a meal—it was a Beijing must-try moment.

📖 What Makes This Activity Special?

Beijing roast duck is the city’s most iconic dish, served in elegant, centuries-old restaurants with time-honored traditions. It’s a culinary and cultural experience rolled into one.

📅 Best time to do this:

Dinner for the full experience

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Absolutely—great for sharing with family or groups, and most restaurants are spacious and welcoming for all ages

💡 Pro Tips

• ✔️ Ask for crispy skin with sugar for a traditional treat
• ✔️ Order side dishes like duck bone soup to complete the meal
• ✔️ Reserve a window seat for a view if dining at a flagship branch

6. Bite into Juicy Beijing-Style Dumplings

The first dumpling was steaming hot, its skin slightly crispy from the pan-fry, yet chewy enough to hold in the explosion of savory broth and minced pork inside. As I took a bite, a burst of umami and ginger warmth filled my mouth—comforting, juicy, addictive. I sat at a no-frills, family-run eatery tucked away in a side alley near Gulou, where the clatter of chopsticks and the hiss of sizzling dumplings created a cozy, lived-in vibe. Locals came and went with ease, chatting over plates piled high with golden-bottomed jiaozi. It felt like I had discovered one of Beijing’s best-kept food secrets.

📖 What Makes This Dish Special?

Beijing-style dumplings are slightly thicker and heartier than their southern cousins. They can be boiled, steamed, or pan-fried—each method bringing out different textures. Unlike soup dumplings from Shanghai, these focus on rich fillings like pork, cabbage, or leeks, often paired with black vinegar and garlic. Mr. Shi’s Dumplings in the hutongs is a popular spot known for its wide variety and friendly atmosphere.

📅 Best time to eat this:

Lunch or late dinner, especially in colder months

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Absolutely! Dumplings are fun, easy to eat, and great for sharing—perfect for all ages. Vegetarian options are widely available.

📍 Where to find it:

Mr. Shi’s Dumplings (Baochao Hutong), or many local eateries across the city

💰 Cost:

¥30–¥60 per plate; casual street-style or small sit-down venues

💡 Pro Tips

• ✔️Try both pan-fried and boiled versions to compare textures.
• ✔️ Ask for homemade chili oil—many shops make their own.
• ✔️ Go with a local friend if possible to order like a pro.

7. Sip Cocktails with a View at Atmosphere Bar in Beijing

Stepping into Atmosphere Bar on the 80th floor of China World Summit Wing, I was immediately captivated by the city lights stretching endlessly beneath me. The air was mellow, with soft jazz playing in the background and the gentle clink of cocktail glasses all around. My drink—a smoky Old Fashioned with a hint of oolong—arrived in a crystal glass, perfectly balanced and surprisingly smooth. I sank into a velvet armchair by the floor-to-ceiling window and watched the Beijing skyline twinkle beneath the stars. The ambiance was upscale but never pretentious, ideal for a classy night out with friends or a romantic date.

📖 What Makes This Spot Special?

Atmosphere Bar is the highest bar in Beijing, offering jaw-dropping views of the city skyline, especially on clear nights. It’s known for its expertly crafted cocktails, live jazz performances, and elegant interior. This is one of the best bars in Beijing for a refined nightlife experience, far above the city’s buzz.

📅 Best time to go:

After 8 PM on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds

📍 Where to find it:

Atmosphere Bar, 80th floor, China World Summit Wing, CBD area

💰 Cost & Dress Code:

¥100–¥180 per cocktail; smart casual recommended; reservations advised for window seats

💡 Pro Tips

• ✔️Request a window table when booking for the best view.
• ✔️Try their tea-infused cocktails—uniquely local and surprisingly complex.
• ✔️Arrive just before sunset for golden hour photo ops.

8. Wander Through Historic Finds at Panjiayuan Antique Market

The moment I stepped into Panjiayuan Antique Market, I was surrounded by an eclectic maze of treasures—jade pendants, vintage propaganda posters, hand-painted porcelain, Tibetan jewelry, and centuries-old calligraphy brushes. Stalls spilled out into open-air lanes, where vendors sat sipping tea and chatting with curious visitors. The air smelled of incense and old books, and the hum of bargaining in Mandarin added to the charm. I ran my fingers over carved jade bracelets and flipped through stacks of old postcards with Beijing stamps from decades past. It felt like walking through a living museum where every item had a story.

📖 What Makes This Shopping Spot Special?

Panjiayuan is the most famous flea market in Beijing, a must-visit for antique lovers and culture seekers. It’s especially popular for Chinese ceramics, Cultural Revolution memorabilia, and folk art. While not everything is genuinely “antique,” the thrill is in the hunt. The market is a blend of history, craftsmanship, and curiosity.

📅 Best time to shop:

Weekend mornings for the full market experience

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Yes—great for curious kids and elderly shoppers. There are shaded walkways, snack vendors, and nearby cafés for breaks.

📍 Where to find it:

Panjiayuan Antique Market, Chaoyang District; nearest Metro: Panjiayuan Station (Line 10)

💰 Price range:

¥20–¥5000+; budget to high-end antiques. Always bargain—start at 50% off the asking price and work your way up.

💡 Pro Tips

• ✔️Bring cash for better bargaining power.
• ✔️Arrive before 10 AM to beat the crowds and grab rare finds.
• ✔️Look for hand-painted snuff bottles and traditional paper cuttings as unique souvenirs.

9. Experience Lantern Festival Magic in Beijing

As dusk fell over Beijing, I found myself in Ditan Park, surrounded by a glowing forest of vibrant lanterns shaped like dragons, lotus flowers, and zodiac animals. The air smelled sweet with the scent of tangyuan—sticky rice balls stuffed with sesame paste—served hot from street vendors. Laughter echoed from children chasing light projections, while traditional music floated from a nearby stage. Giant lantern displays pulsed with color, and calligraphy artists demonstrated their craft on red paper fans. The whole park felt like a fairytale come alive under the full moon’s glow. It was festive, joyful, and steeped in rich cultural charm.

📖 What Makes This Festival Special?

The Lantern Festival marks the final day of Chinese New Year celebrations, symbolizing unity and hope. In Beijing, locals light lanterns, eat tangyuan, and enjoy folk performances. It's a tradition dating back to the Han Dynasty, blending spirituality with celebration. Some temples also host riddle-solving games written on lanterns—a favorite pastime for all ages.

📅 When & where:

The 15th day of the Lunar New Year (usually February), celebrated citywide

📍 Best places to experience it:

Ditan Park, Longtan Park, and the Summer Palace lantern shows

💰 Cost:

¥10–¥30 for park entry; lantern displays included

💡 Pro Tips

• ✔️Arrive before sunset to see the lanterns both by daylight and when they light up.
• ✔️Wear warm layers—nights in February are chilly!
• ✔️ Bring a good camera for low-light shots, or just enjoy with your eyes.

10. Meditate with Monks at a Hidden Temple in Beijing

Tucked away in the western hills of Beijing, I found myself stepping through the quiet stone gates of Tanzhe Temple just as the morning mist lifted. The scent of incense lingered in the crisp air, and soft chanting echoed from the main hall. I joined a small group seated cross-legged on wooden mats as a Buddhist monk gently guided us through a silent meditation. Time slowed down. I could hear birds chirping, leaves rustling, and the occasional ringing of a distant temple bell. Unlike the crowds of Lama Temple, this experience felt deeply personal—spiritual, grounding, and beautifully still.

📖 What Makes This Experience Unique?

Tanzhe Temple is one of the oldest temples in Beijing, yet it remains relatively undiscovered by tourists. Participating in a morning meditation session here offers a rare glimpse into monastic life and Buddhist practice. It’s an authentic, soul-nourishing escape from the city’s pace—one that few travelers even know exists.

📅 Best time to do this:

Early morning on weekdays, especially in spring or autumn

📍 Where to start:

Tanzhe Temple, Mentougou District; accessible by Metro + local bus or private hire

💰 Cost:

¥55 entry + ¥50–¥100 for guided meditation session (if available)

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Best for adults or older teens interested in mindfulness; not ideal for young children or those with mobility concerns due to uneven paths.

💡 Pro Tips

• ✔️ Wear modest, comfortable clothing for meditation.
• ✔️Bring water and snacks—there are few vendors nearby.
• ✔️ Visit the hillside pagoda after your session for peaceful views.

Explore Beijing Now!

Beijing is one of those cities that truly lingers with you—its mix of ancient history and fast-paced modern life creates a rhythm unlike anywhere else. Walking through centuries-old hutongs one minute and sipping cocktails on a rooftop the next makes every day feel like a fresh discovery. Sure, the traffic can be a bit intense and the air isn’t always the clearest, but honestly, that’s a small price to pay for a city this rich in culture, food, and unforgettable experiences. There’s a certain magic to Beijing—whether it’s a sunrise at the Great Wall or late-night dumplings in a hidden alley. If you’re planning a trip, there are some great deals on flights to Beijing and plenty of amazing hotels in Beijing to fit every style. Now’s a great time to plan—there are amazing discounts on flights and hotels in Beijing right now. Hope you get to experience it all soon—happy travels!

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