Beijing Travel Guide: Explore China’s Imperial Capital
Welcome to Beijing, China’s vibrant capital where ancient history meets modern life. From the iconic Great Wall and Forbidden City to serene hutongs and bustling street markets, Beijing offers an unforgettable experience blending culture, architecture, and cuisine. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, this Beijing Travel Guide helps you discover the city’s top attractions, authentic local food, and flexible travel itineraries — curated for international visitors who want to plan ahead or dive deep into the city’s stories.
Beijing Tourist Attractions
Beijing is a 3,000-year-old capital and a UNESCO-recognized historic city, where imperial history meets modern urban life. As the heart of China for over six centuries, it is one of the most important destinations in any Beijing Travel Guide.
Top Beijing Attractions include the Forbidden City, the world’s largest and best-preserved imperial palace, once home to 24 emperors; the Great Wall at Badaling, the most iconic section of the Great Wall, offering panoramic views via cable car; and Nanluoguxiang, a historic hutong area known for traditional courtyard houses, local snacks, and boutique shops.
Beyond the famous landmarks, travelers can discover Beijing’s cultural depth through historic temples, Lama Temple, and intangible cultural heritage workshops. These authentic experiences reveal the city’s living traditions and are essential for anyone exploring the best things to do in Beijing.
Top Beijing Tourist Attractions
Temple of Heaven
Badaling Great Wall
Forbidden City
Tiananmen Square
Summer Palace
Prince Gong’s Mansion
Beijing Local Food Trails
| Imperial Favorites | Hutong & Local Treats |
|---|---|
| Peking Roast Duck – Signature dish | Zhajiangmian – Noodles with fried bean sauce, try Fangzhuan Factory No. 69 |
| Quanjude – Crispy skin, tender meat, hung oven | Pea Cake & Rolling Donkey – Soft desserts at Hugusiji Xiaochi |
| Siji Minfu – Roast duck & almond tofu, Forbidden City views | Douzhir – Fermented mung bean juice with crisp rings & pickled radish at Lao Ciqikou |
Beijing Local Food Trails ：Classic Main Dishes & Food Street
Peking Duck
Mutton Hot Pot
Luzhu Huoshao
Braised Pork Face with Yanqing Huoshao
Dashilar & Guijie Ghost Street
Nanluoguxiang & Yandai Xiejie
Beijing Travel Itineraries
Planning your Beijing visit is easier with curated itineraries. Short trips focus on iconic attractions like the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and the Great Wall, while multi-day plans include hutong tours, food trails, temple visits, and day trips to surrounding cultural sites.
Our Beijing itinerary blogs also provide practical tips: public transport guidance, ticket booking, and recommended accommodations. Travelers can choose routes that suit culture enthusiasts, foodies, photographers, or families.
Classic Beijing Travel Itineraries
Badaling Great Wall
Forbidden City & Hutong
3-Day Beijing Itinerary
5-Day Beijing Itinerary
Beijing Travel Guide: Attractions, Food, and Travel Itineraries
Beijing, an ancient capital with over 3,000 years of history, is recognized by UNESCO as a “World Historical City.” More than a destination, Beijing is a living museum where imperial heritage and modern city life coexist. This Beijing Travel Guide is your starting point to explore the city’s top attractions, local food experiences, and carefully planned travel itineraries. From iconic landmarks and historic hutongs to must-try Beijing cuisine and practical travel routes, everything you need is organized in one place.
Whether you’re planning a detailed Beijing itinerary or gathering inspiration for a future trip to China, this guide helps you discover the history, culture, and flavors that define the imperial capital.
Subscribe to Urban China Travelogue
Planning a trip to China or curious about its culture and flavors? Subscribe to Urban China Travelogue for insider tips, curated itineraries, and expert advice on attractions, local food, and hidden gems. Discover China like a local—whether you’re traveling soon or just dreaming.