Beijing, the capital of China, is a vibrant city where ancient history meets modern innovation. As one of the oldest capitals in the world, Beijing is home to iconic landmarks like the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven, all of which showcase its rich cultural heritage. It’s also a bustling metropolis with plenty of delicious local cuisine. Whether you want to explore historic sites or try world-famous delicacies like Peking Duck, Beijing has something for everyone. The following guide brings together Beijing’s most famous attractions and most distinctive foods to help you make the most of your trip to Beijing!
Here’s a handy guide to help you navigate China’s power socket and plug types, so you can keep your devices charged during your trip.
Before you begin your journey, make sure to book your Beijing eSIM card to stay connected with fast, reliable data throughout your trip！
Must-Visit Attractions
The Great Wall of China
No trip to Beijing would be complete without visiting the Great Wall. Stretching over 13,000 miles, this ancient wonder is an iconic symbol of China’s history. The most popular sections to visit near Beijing include Badaling, Mutianyu, and Jinshanling. Whether you hike along its steep paths or take a cable car, the panoramic views from the Wall are truly breathtaking.
East Side of Exit A of OCT Metro Station, No. 13 Guangqiao Street, Overseas Chinese Town
FromDKK 267
The Forbidden City
The Forbidden City, also known as the Imperial Palace, is a massive palace complex that once served as the home of Chinese emperors for almost 500 years. Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest and most well-preserved palatial structures in the world. With its grand halls, beautiful gardens, and fascinating exhibits, it’s an essential stop for anyone interested in Chinese history and culture.
Beijing: The Forbidden City Entry Ticket
Mandarin / English
Duration:3hrs
Available from Jan 24
|
E-Voucher
from AU$ 28.94
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Explore one of the world’s most iconic landmarks with a 3-hour tour. Available in Mandarin & English, this e-ticket lets you skip the hassle and enjoy a seamless experience. 🏰
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Important: Tickets must be reserved in advance. Limited availability, so book now and get ready to immerse yourself in history!
Tower A, Tian'an Building, Hualong Street, Nanheyan Street
FromDKK 604
Temple of Heaven
The Temple of Heaven, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most important religious buildings in Beijing. This stunning complex was used by emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties for annual ceremonies to pray for good harvests. The architecture here is impressive, with its symbolic and harmonious design meant to represent the relationship between heaven and earth.
Beijing Temple of Heaven Park + Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests + Echo Wall + Circular Mound one-day tour
Mandarin / English
Duration:2hrs
Available from Jan 19
|
Instant Confirmation
from AU$ 48.02
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Visit iconic landmarks like the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, Echo Wall, and Circular Mound with a professional guide. Learn about the history and cultural significance of these UNESCO sites in both English and Mandarin. 🏯
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Important: Tickets must be reserved in advance. Limited availability, so book now and immerse yourself in Beijing's rich heritage!
Summer Palace
Located just outside Beijing’s city center, the Summer Palace is a beautiful imperial garden and palace that served as a summer retreat for emperors. The vast park includes temples, bridges, pavilions, and the famous Kunming Lake, where you can take a boat ride for a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Tiananmen Square
One of the largest public squares in the world, Tiananmen Square is a key landmark in Beijing’s heart. It’s home to several monumental sites, including the Monument to the People's Heroes, the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong, and the National Museum of China. The square is also where you’ll find the famous Tiananmen Gate, which leads to the Forbidden City.
Building 2, No. 5, Nanxiaoshun Hutong
FromDKK 877
Beijing Cuisine
Peking Duck
Beijing is renowned for its Peking duck, a dish famous for its crispy skin and tender meat. The traditional method of roasting the duck gives it a unique flavor that is best enjoyed with thin pancakes, hoisin sauce, and fresh vegetables. Head to iconic restaurants like Quanjude or Da Dong for an unforgettable dining experience.
Jiaozi (Dumplings)
A beloved comfort food in Beijing, jiaozi are Chinese dumplings stuffed with various fillings, such as pork, beef, vegetables, and even shrimp. They’re usually boiled, steamed, or pan-fried and served with soy sauce or vinegar. Make sure to try these at a local dumpling restaurant or street food stall for an authentic taste.
Shuan Yangrou (Hot Pot with Lamb)
Shuan Yangrou, or hot pot with lamb, is a beloved Beijing specialty. Unlike the general hot pot, this dish features thinly sliced lamb that’s quickly cooked in a flavorful broth. The broth can range from mild to spicy, allowing you to enjoy the tender lamb alongside a variety of vegetables, tofu, and dipping sauces. It's a fun and communal dining experience, making it a great choice for groups who want to enjoy a hearty and interactive meal together.
Zha Jiang Mian
Zha Jiang Mian, or “fried sauce noodles,” is a classic Beijing dish. It consists of wheat noodles topped with a savory sauce made from fermented soybean paste, minced pork, and various vegetables. The dish is hearty, flavorful, and simple, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Tanghulu (Candied Haw)
Tanghulu is a popular Beijing street snack that consists of hawthorn berries coated in a crisp, sweet sugar syrup. The berries are skewered on a stick, creating a shiny, hard candy shell that contrasts beautifully with the tartness of the fruit inside. Often found at food stalls or markets, Tanghulu is a fun and refreshing treat, especially during colder months, and it’s a must-try for anyone wanting to experience authentic Beijing street food.
What is the Best Time to Visit Beijing?
- Spring (March to May): Ideal for sightseeing with mild temperatures and blooming flowers.
- Autumn (September to November): The most pleasant weather, with clear skies and colorful fall leaves.
- Summer (June to August): Hot and humid, but also the peak tourist season.
- Winter (December to February): Cold and snowy, but less crowded, offering a unique experience.
Summary Table:
| Season | Months | Weather | Pros | Cons |
| Spring | March - May | Mild, pleasant | Ideal for sightseeing, flowers in bloom | Crowds starting to grow |
| Summer | June - August | Hot, humid | Plenty of activities, vibrant atmosphere | High temperatures, crowded |
| Autumn | September - November | Cool, crisp | Best weather, fewer crowds, fall foliage | Can still be crowded in October |
| Winter | December - February | Cold, snowy | Fewer tourists, unique atmosphere | Very cold, limited activities |
Overall, Spring and Autumn are the best seasons to visit for pleasant weather and good sightseeing conditions.
Getting Around in Beijing
Getting around Beijing is quite convenient with a variety of transportation options. Here are the main ways to travel in the city:
1. Subway
- Best for: Quick, affordable, and convenient travel around major attractions and neighborhoods.
- How it works: Beijing has an extensive subway system with 24 lines covering most of the city.
- Cost: Affordable, with fares starting around ¥3 for a single ride.
- Tips: Can get crowded during rush hours, but it's the fastest way to avoid traffic.
2. Buses
- Best for: Reaching areas not covered by the subway.
- How it works: Beijing has a large bus network, including regular buses and express routes.
- Cost: Inexpensive, with fares generally around ¥2–¥3.
- Tips: Buses can be slow due to traffic, especially during peak hours.
3. Taxis
- Best for: Direct routes to specific locations and when traveling with luggage.
- How it works: Available at taxi stands, or through apps like Didi (similar to Uber).
- Cost: Base fare is around ¥13 for the first 3 km, with an additional charge per kilometer.
- Tips: Traffic can be heavy, so traveling during non-peak hours is recommended. Have your destination written in Chinese if you don’t speak the language.
4. Didi (Rideshare Apps)
- Best for: Convenient, private travel with door-to-door service.
- How it works: Use apps like Didi Chuxing to book a ride.
- Cost: Similar to taxis but can be cheaper, depending on demand and traffic.
- Tips: Use the app to see estimated fares before confirming your ride.
5. Bicycles and E-Scooters
- Best for: Short trips, exploring neighborhoods, or enjoying the city at your own pace.
- How it works: You can rent bikes or e-scooters through apps like Mobike or Ofo.
- Cost: Typically ¥1 to ¥5 per ride.
- Tips: Be mindful of traffic and use designated bike lanes when available.
Essential Tips for Traveling to Beijing
- Language: While many people in Beijing can understand basic English, learning a few Chinese phrases or using a translation app can be helpful.
- Cash and Cards: While credit cards are widely accepted, it's still a good idea to carry some cash, especially for small purchases or in rural areas.
- Weather: Always check the weather forecast and pack accordingly, especially if visiting in winter when temperatures can drop significantly.
- Cultural Respect: Be mindful of local customs, such as showing respect to elders and using both hands when giving or receiving gifts.
- Internet Access: Google services, Facebook, and other foreign websites may be restricted in China. You can use a VPN to access these sites if needed.
Plan Your Trip
Flights to Beijing
Beijing is well-connected to major cities around the world, so booking a flight to this bustling metropolis is relatively easy. The main international airport, Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK), is located about 30 kilometers from the city center. Alternatively, the newer Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX) offers additional flight options.
Flights to Beijing
- One way
- Return
SYD11:0528h 25m1 stopPKX13:30Sydney - Beijing|Sun, Jun 7|Hong Kong AirlinesDKK 2,012DKK 2,78228% off28% offDKK 2,782DKK 2,012- SYD11:1528h 15m1 stopPKX13:30Sydney - Beijing|Mon, Jun 8|Hong Kong AirlinesDKK 2,125DKK 2,78224% off24% offDKK 2,782DKK 2,125
SYD09:1522h 45m1 stopPKX06:00Sydney - Beijing|Tue, Jun 9|Malaysia AirlinesDKK 2,225DKK 2,78220% off20% offDKK 2,782DKK 2,225
SYD1:00 PM3h 5mDirectBJS2:00 PMSydney - Beijing|Sat, Jun 6|Hong Kong AirlinesFind more flightsFind more flights
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Hotels in Beijing
Beijing offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget. For luxury, stay at high-end hotels like The Peninsula Beijing or the Rosewood Beijing, which offer exceptional service and amenities. Mid-range options such as the Beijing Marriott Hotel or Novotel Beijing Peace are also popular and offer good value. Budget travelers will find plenty of hostels and guesthouses around the city, especially near major attractions.
Beijing
5 star
Good6862 Reviews
Tian'anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.55km from downtown
Prime location, and the hotel is truly luxurious with excellent facilities. Even though it's an older property, it's very well-maintained. The cleanliness is top-notch, though the hairdryer felt a bit old and could use an upgrade. I used to always stay at the Regent across the street, but next time I'm in Beijing, I'll definitely choose this hotel again – the bed is much softer and more comfortable than at the Regent.FromDKK 848
Very Good12643 Reviews
International Trade CBD/Chaoyang Joy City Beijing|2.52km from downtown
I stayed at the Sofitel last year, and I chose it again this year because of my excellent previous experience. I messaged Manager Li in advance on WeChat, and everything was perfectly arranged. They upgraded us to a quiet room on a higher floor with a view of the China Zun. I also realized the subway station is actually less than a five-minute walk away, which I didn't notice last time! Taking a taxi around the Second Ring Road is really slow every day. Plus, Ziguangyuan and Scitech are right behind the hotel, so the surrounding amenities are pretty good. The only thing the room really needs is an upgrade to smart devices; otherwise, everything else was great!FromDKK 803
Very Good3560 Reviews
Yansha Commercial Area Beijing|7.59km from downtown
I had such a wonderful stay at Boyue Hotel and honestly wish I could have stayed longer. From the moment I arrived, everything stood out. The hotel is incredibly clean, well maintained, and very welcoming.
The service was truly exceptional. The staff were all kind, warm, and professional, but I have to give a special mention to Yunah at reception. She was absolutely lovely, so helpful, patient, and genuinely caring. She really made my stay feel special and stress free.
The rooms are spacious, comfortable, and spotless, which made it easy to relax after a long day. I was also really impressed with the breakfast and restaurant service. The food was great, and I loved that the restaurant is available for most of the day. It is super convenient.
Another big plus is the location. The hotel is very central, close to embassies and key areas in the city, and it is easy to get to and from. Everything you need is within reach.
Overall, I truly enjoyed my stay. Everything from the cleanliness to the service and location exceeded my expectations. I would definitely recommend Boyue Hotel and would happily stay there again.FromDKK 376
5931 Reviews
International Trade CBD/Chaoyang Joy City Beijing|4.64km from downtown
This was my first stay at the Grand Millennium Beijing, and it exceeded my expectations by far. It wasn't overly crowded, so it felt very peaceful and quiet. The swimming pool is a major highlight, integrated seamlessly with the gym on a different floor, creating a spacious, high-ceilinged area with a Southeast Asian vibe. I encountered many Hong Kongers there, from business travelers in the elevator to an elderly couple in the executive lounge; they were all very humble and friendly. The surrounding area boasts a wide variety of restaurants, and the Fortune Plaza Mall is practically a canteen for Beijing's white-collar workers. The night view is also top-notch, with the CCTV Headquarters lit up beautifully. A pleasant surprise was bumping into a celebrity while working out – the 'rooster among roosters,' haha. The Grand Millennium is fantastic, giving me every reason to return. The male manager who handled my check-in was very gracious, and the service was just perfect.FromDKK 696
Outstanding6407 Reviews
International Trade CBD/Chaoyang Joy City Beijing|2.63km from downtown
The room isn't huge, and it's not a brand-new hotel, but the facilities and service are excellent. Let's start with the facilities:
1. The bedside lamps aren't directly overhead; they're adjustable, so you won't disturb anyone sleeping next to you.
2. The toilet is a Toto Washlet, and the flush is incredibly quiet. Many hotels now have smart toilets, but their flushes can be deafening, waking up everyone in the room in the middle of the night. This hotel's smart toilet is the quietest I've ever encountered, which is a huge plus.
3. The curtains are electric blackout blinds that move up and down, which I prefer because they don't collect dust easily.
4. The breakfast selection is quite extensive and very good.
5. The small garden isn't large, but it features rockeries, a waterfall, flowers, and several different types of trees, including hawthorn, apple, and even a Japanese Puxian cherry.
Now, about the service:
1. There's an AI photo booth and a claw machine on the first floor, both free. The staff are incredibly enthusiastic. If a child can't grab a doll, they'll even open the machine to adjust the doll's position, making it easier for the child to win. The photo booth generates AI photos based on your shots and chosen backgrounds, printing them out as a fridge magnet – very cool!
2. When my child was taking a bottle of mineral water to go out, a staff member on the first floor noticed and proactively came over to attach a portable clip to the bottle so it could be hung.
We stayed here for two days, and it felt more and more comfortable with each passing night. The room was also very quiet. Additionally, right next to the hotel is an ancient observatory, which was once the Royal Observatory. It's well worth a visit, with volunteer guides who explain China's astronomical history beautifully. Highly recommended.FromDKK 633
Gym
Good10357 Reviews
Tian'anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|0.86km from downtown
Hygiene: The hygiene is excellent; the room was cleaned punctually every day, and amenities were refreshed daily during my stay.
Environment: The hotel's environment is also good, and the transportation is very convenient. The subway entrance is right outside the hotel lobby, making it super easy to get around. It's very convenient to get to Tiananmen Square and Wangfujing, and even walkable.
Service: The service attitude is excellent, very warm and welcoming. The front desk staff handled check-in with great enthusiasm and thoughtfulness, especially Xiao Zhai. Seeing that we had a child with us, she promptly upgraded our room. All our requests were handled very efficiently. When my child accidentally left a toy in the hotel, the lobby manager immediately arranged for staff to search for it after receiving our call and gave us timely feedback once it was found. The concierge team was also great, handling food deliveries and luggage storage with warmth and care.
Facilities: Although the hotel facilities are a bit old, they are very well maintained.FromDKK 428
1737 Reviews
Tian'anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.47km from downtown
The room itself is typical of an older hotel, a decent size. It had twin beds, a chaise lounge, a large desk, and a small tea table, all with ample space. The amenities were comprehensive. The shower was over the bathtub. Honestly, it felt very much like an old four-star hotel in Europe. But this is the Peace Hotel! Built on the site of the original garden, it was specifically designed to host international conferences. Once you learn about the historical events and figures associated with it, you realize it's definitely worth staying at least once! The buffet restaurant on the top floor offers views of almost the entire Forbidden City! I went there the next morning (April 28th) before breakfast just to check it out. The restaurant staff asked for my room number, and when I told her I hadn't booked breakfast and was just visiting, she then gave me a very enthusiastic and comprehensive introduction to the hotel! My main purpose for this trip was to see the flowers, visiting places around the Forbidden City like Jingshan Park, the Imperial Ancestral Temple, Zhongshan Park, and Taoranting. The transportation was super convenient; I just cycled everywhere.FromDKK 620
Outstanding3708 Reviews
Tian'anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.72km from downtown
I have to rave about the location – it's incredibly convenient for getting anywhere. You can walk to Metro Lines 1 and 5, making travel absolutely effortless. Step out of the hotel, turn left, and just 50 meters away is a mall with so many shopping and dining options, you'll be spoilt for choice. All your retail therapy and foodie needs are easily met!
The room was an even bigger surprise. It was incredibly spacious and bright with fantastic natural light. The floor-to-ceiling window offered an amazing view – so comfortable to just lie there and take in the scenery. The facilities were also comprehensive. The pillows and mattress were incredibly comfortable; I slept like a baby and woke up completely refreshed.
And let's not forget the breakfast on the second floor. The variety of Chinese and Western dishes was extensive, offering so many choices. Every morning, I left feeling completely satisfied.
I had such a wonderful stay these past few days. I'll definitely choose this place again next time I visit!FromDKK 736
Very Good2518 Reviews
International Trade CBD/Chaoyang Joy City Beijing|4.46km from downtown
I wonder if the staff handling Ctrip bookings understand the hotel's motto: 'A love letter to the city.' Every interaction with a customer reflects how welcomed hotel guests truly feel. Even with a great stay, if a guest notes an early arrival, copying and pasting a response about full-day charges from X to X o'clock and half-day charges from X to X o'clock is simply wrong and inappropriate. (In this situation, I just canceled. 😑 It's not like Beijing doesn't have other resort hotels.) It's disheartening and unprofessional. Aside from a staff member whose English name was 'Huang something,' the entire communication process lacked any international standard. It was cold, indifferent, and they couldn't be bothered to do a little extra. I suspect the people processing Ctrip orders hate their jobs. What I remember most vividly is a previous booking where, due to a minor note, Ctrip called me twice to relay the hotel's requests. I angrily complained, and that's why there wasn't a third call. Your reservation handling truly leaves a lot to be desired. To say it's unwelcome isn't quite right; it's more like a letdown. It feels like they treat guests like employees, responding like they're reciting from an employee manual. The service at the executive lounge, however, was as thoughtful and consistent as ever. The male staff members are familiar faces and speak excellent English; the female staff rotate frequently. The bathtubs on the executive floor need renovation. And please don't give me a room ending in '3' next time. The iced latte at breakfast was very good. I will continue to frequent the executive lounge and monitor the reservation department's attitude. I'll complain if necessary, after all, going to a hotel on the weekend should be enjoyable. Housekeeping efficiency is extremely high.FromDKK 981
Good2844 Reviews
Changping Town/Shisanling Resort Beijing|40.96km from downtown
Didn't want to travel too far for our holiday, so we chose the Marriott Badaling to relax with the kids. The hotel's location is excellent, just a stone's throw from Wanda Plaza, which caters to all our dining, drinking, and shopping needs. The room was spacious and well-arranged, maintaining Marriott's usual high standards. Breakfast offered a wide variety of options; even though it was crowded during the holiday, the queue was orderly, and there was plenty of food. There are many hot spring pools with good privacy, but soaking in them these past two days was a bit awkward – the outdoor wind was too strong and it was a bit sunny, while the indoor water was a bit shallow and the activities felt a bit childish, not really suitable for older kids. The indoor swimming pool, however, was great, with clean, odorless water and plenty of lounge chairs. Overall, this short getaway was quite satisfying. A special thanks to Skyller for helping us get extra perks and for the very attentive, butler-style service. I'll definitely recommend this place to friends and family for a holiday.FromDKK 657
Swimming pool
Outstanding7388 Reviews
China International Exhibition Center Area Beijing|7.13km from downtown
The hotel is located right at the southwest corner of Sanyuan Bridge and offers great value for money. Transportation is incredibly convenient, with the Sanyuanqiao subway station on Line 10 directly across the street. The Phoenix Galleria shopping mall, also across the street, has a wide variety of restaurants, and for even more options, Sanlitun or Solana are nearby. Getting to the airport is a breeze; you can hop onto Jingmi Road right from the hotel and then transfer to the Airport Expressway at Siyuan Bridge, reaching Capital Airport very quickly. The hotel's gym is well-equipped. The staff are all very enthusiastic, especially a young doorman who always greets guests warmly upon entering and leaving, making you feel right at home.FromDKK 534
Outstanding5169 Reviews
International Trade CBD/Chaoyang Joy City Beijing|4.7km from downtown
We stayed here during the May Day holiday, and it was quite busy. There was a minor hiccup initially: I had requested a room with a good view when booking, but upon arrival, the designated 13th-floor room with a view wasn't ready. They offered a 11th-floor room with a fire door instead. The front desk staff was very accommodating, saying I could change rooms anytime if I wasn't satisfied. The 11th-floor room did offer a view of the CCTV Tower, but having an internal door made me feel a bit uneasy, so I asked to switch again. They then arranged a quiet room on the 19th floor. The staff throughout this process were incredibly friendly, and their service was prompt and excellent. The room itself was simply decorated but had great facilities, and the water pressure was strong. Even with the May Day crowds, food deliveries were quite timely. The only downside was the exorbitant parking fee. It's 10 yuan an hour for underground parking with no cap. After one night, my parking bill came to 225 yuan. Compared to the room rate of over a thousand, the parking fee was quite painful. Those who need parking should be prepared!FromDKK 1,088
Very Good2533 Reviews
Wangjing Area Beijing|10.16km from downtown
The room design is well considered, and the space is clean and nicely maintained. However, the key concern during my stay was the ventilation and air conditioning. Despite setting the temperature to the lowest (18.5°C with cooling mode on), the room remained warm and rather stuffy, with no window available for natural ventilation.
I do appreciate the attentiveness of the staff—they noticed the situation and kindly provided ice and standing fans. Nevertheless, the room still felt uncomfortably warm, and the ventilation did not improve significantly.
As a result, I contacted customer service to request a room change the following morning, as the environment had become quite uncomfortable. Thankfully, the replacement room had a functioning air conditioner. Although the fridge was initially not working, it was promptly replaced.
Another aspect worth noting is the shower experience. After a long day, a good shower is essential for relaxation. Unfortunately, the water pressure was relatively weak, which affected the overall comfort.
Overall, the stay was acceptable, though there is room for improvement—particularly in the air conditioning design, as the airflow is directed towards the bathtub area, which may not be the most practical or user-friendly arrangement.
These observations are shared purely from a personal perspective, with the intention of providing constructive feedback for future enhancement.FromDKK 757
Very Good3904 Reviews
International Trade CBD/Chaoyang Joy City Beijing|4.88km from downtown
After a wonderful stay at Rosewood Guangzhou, my experience at Rosewood Beijing was quite disappointing.
First, let's talk about the positives: the design of the public areas and rooms is stunning, and the club lounge, gym, and pool facilities are excellent, meeting the standards of a luxury five-star hotel. The maintenance of these facilities is also quite good.
Now for the areas that need improvement, primarily the service. It's the worst service I've ever encountered in a hotel costing over 1500+ RMB per night. The overall impression is one of aloofness and bureaucracy.
The butler's pre-arrival communication was unhelpful, and it seemed like different departments within the hotel didn't communicate with each other. There was incorrect information regarding club lounge benefits. The butler claimed the room type I wanted to upgrade to was fully booked, but the front desk said there was one available for a paid upgrade. Despite informing them beforehand that I was traveling with a child, extra slippers and toothbrushes weren't provided promptly. This experience falls far short of what I've had at some Marriott and Crowne Plaza hotels costing 500+ RMB per night. Considering Rosewood's 5000+ RMB room rate, this aspect is truly subpar.
The executive lounge's service and food were also very disappointing. It was the first time in my life I was asked for my room number three times in the lounge.
During happy hour, it was often difficult to find the bartender and noodle chef. The slightly pale, somewhat red-faced male bartender provided poor service; he seemed unwilling to speak much and would simply walk away even when guests were right in front of him.
While the afternoon tea in the lounge was decent quality, the variety was too limited. The happy hour food was also overly Westernized, consisting mostly of cold dishes. This is China, after all. There was only one hot dish, beef cheek, and a bowl of Chaoshan beef kway teow, which was too cold and not very suitable for families with children. For drinks, there were three white wines, two red wines, and one sparkling wine, all of average taste. For spirits, only two types of whiskey used for cocktails were complimentary; others required an additional charge. Overall, the lounge food felt like a higher-end Andaz, but Andaz is free, while Rosewood's lounge prices are even more expensive than the Ritz, yet the food is nowhere near as good as the Ritz. Perhaps every hotel defines its lounge differently, but they should still strive to satisfy a wider range of guests.
The front desk staff also lacked smiles, and the concierge wouldn't even look at you when speaking. The elevator attendant, however, was quite good.
The breakfast on the first floor was also overly specialized and disappointing. The variety was the worst I've encountered in a hotel costing over 1500+ RMB per night. It was quite Western-biased; the bread was excellent, just like at Rosewood Guangzhou, but the Chinese options were far inferior to Rosewood Guangzhou, with too little variety – only the congee was decent.
Furthermore, I forgot my child's swimming goggles and cap in the bathrobe pocket. After checking out, I contacted the hotel to help locate them. I was told they were in the bathrobe in the room, but then they replied that the pool staff couldn't find them. I reiterated my request, and they said the laundry also couldn't find them. This could have been a chance for them to earn some brownie points, but it further highlighted Rosewood Beijing's shortcomings in service.FromDKK 2,097
Very Good5458 Reviews
East Second Ring Workers' Stadium Area Beijing|5.18km from downtown
Every time I visit Beijing with my kids, I choose InterContinental. It's just across the street from Sanlitun, making shopping and dining incredibly convenient. Plus, there are two subway stations nearby, so getting anywhere is a breeze.
The room was comfortable, quiet, and spotless, with great natural light. Mika Flora, one of the staff members, was incredibly gentle and responsible, providing excellent service throughout our stay.
The hotel's breakfast offered a wide variety of delicious options, and the service was prompt. My only suggestion would be to improve the quality and variety of pastries in the dessert section. For instance, most hotel restaurants seem to have savory floss bread, and adding more sweet and savory options could make the selection even richer.FromDKK 1,629
Breakfast
Outstanding4153 Reviews
International Trade CBD/Chaoyang Joy City Beijing|2.93km from downtown
We stayed here for a family trip during the May Day holiday. The hotel's location is excellent, making it super convenient for getting around and finding places to eat. The service was pretty good too. As for the facilities, the room size was a bit on the smaller side, which I guess might be due to the hotel's overall positioning, so I can understand that. The biggest letdown, though, was the breakfast. It was extremely mediocre; our group of three families all felt there was absolutely nothing good to eat. We ended up just having some fruit and eggs. It pales in comparison to business hotels like Atour, Jianguo Puyin, or Orange Crystal, which feels mismatched with the hotel's caliber. I hope they can improve this in the future.FromDKK 424
Excellent2446 Reviews
The Grand Canal CBD Beijing|21.34km from downtown
We stayed at the hotel for two nights. While it’s located a bit far from the city center, getting downtown by metro is very easy and convenient (Jiukeshu metro station is a short DiDi away).
The hotel staff were exceptionally kind and helpful everyone was welcoming, friendly, and went above and beyond to solve any issue we had.
Another big plus: the staff speaks English!
The rooms are cozy and beautifully designed.
Overall, we had a very pleasant and successful stay, and we highly recommend this hotel!FromDKK 178
Excellent15 Reviews
Beijing Wtown/The Simatai Great Wall Beijing|109.66km from downtown
Very satisfied, the kids had a great time
Hygiene: Hygienic conditions are also very good
Environment: Full score for the environment
Service: Nothing except the phone at the front desk couldn't get through, and I also helped to make coffeeFromDKK 1,186
Excellent366 Reviews
Tian'anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.47km from downtown
For this friends' gathering, we wanted to experience a traditional courtyard hotel. We chose the Waldorf Astoria over the Aman, and it was an excellent experience! The room was very new and spacious, and the courtyard was beautiful. All the staff were incredibly thoughtful.
Before check-in, our dedicated butler, Amber, contacted us to ask if we needed any anniversary decorations and about our bedding preferences. We arrived quite early, and our room wasn't ready yet, so they kindly prepared a room for us in the main building to rest. They guided us through the entire process, and the service was incredibly detailed and attentive, giving us a fantastic first impression right from check-in.
For breakfast, we opted for room service. The variety was extensive, with American, Continental, Chinese, and even low-fat options.
Staff member Will also provided very attentive service. The hotel even offered a complimentary travel photography service. Although it was raining, the photographer (a young man named Yueqian) found great spots, and the photos turned out natural and beautiful.
While taking photos in the courtyard, we met another staff member, Judy, who was very enthusiastic. She gave us many tips on photo locations and also told us about fun places to visit in Beijing.
If we weren't heading to Universal Studios, we would have loved to stay a few more days. The overall experience was excellent, and I'd love to bring my parents here next time.FromDKK 7,432
Outstanding872 Reviews
Tian'anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.12km from downtown
Youfang Hotel has an antique and charming decor, excellent hygiene, and clean, comfortable bedding. It's a safe and secure place to stay with children. The location is very convenient, close to Beijing's city center and JinYu Hutong subway station, making it easy to get around with elderly family members and kids. The hotel service deserves a perfect 10 out of 10; the staff are patient with children and attentive to guests. I'd definitely stay here again if I have the chance!FromDKK 365
FAQs About Things to Do in Beijing
What are the top attractions to visit in Beijing?
Some of the must-see attractions in Beijing include the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, and Tiananmen Square.What is the best time to visit Beijing?
The best times to visit Beijing are during spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October), when the weather is mild and pleasant.What is Beijing known for?
Beijing is famous for its rich history, iconic landmarks like the Great Wall and Forbidden City, its unique cuisine (such as Peking Duck), and its cultural heritage.Can I visit the Great Wall of China in one day from Beijing?
Yes, many visitors take a day trip to the Great Wall from Beijing. Popular sections like Badaling and Mutianyu can be reached within a couple of hours.What is the local food to try in Beijing?
Be sure to try Peking Duck, hot pot, jiaozi (dumplings), zha jiang mian (fried sauce noodles), and Tanghulu (candied hawthorns) while in Beijing.How do I get around Beijing?
Beijing has an extensive public transportation system, including subways, buses, and taxis. You can also use ride-hailing apps for convenience.