Beijing is a city where centuries-old history stands side by side with modern marvels—a living museum of China’s imperial legacy, philosophical traditions, and vibrant contemporary culture. Whether you’re drawn to grand palaces, sacred temples, or avant-garde art hubs, Beijing offers a mosaic of experiences that capture the essence of China. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best places to visit in Beijing—each a destination in its own right, and together, a compelling portrait of the city’s enduring spirit.
1. Old Summer Palace (Yuanmingyuan)
Imperial Ruins | Historic Beauty | Cultural Wanderers | Architectural Marvel
Once a sprawling masterpiece of classical Chinese landscaping and European-style palaces, the Old Summer Palace—also known as Yuanmingyuan—tells a poignant story of beauty and loss. Located just northwest of the city center, this vast complex of gardens, lakes, and ruins was the summer retreat for Qing emperors, symbolizing the height of imperial luxury and artistic achievement.
What makes Yuanmingyuan so moving is its ruined grandeur. In 1860, Anglo-French troops looted and burned the palace during the Second Opium War. Today, its surviving foundations and archways are a stark, poetic reminder of that devastation. As you walk through its overgrown paths and tranquil waterscapes, you’ll feel the echoes of what was once called the “Garden of Gardens.”
Don’t miss the Western Mansions area with its European-style stone ruins, and the Fuhai Lake, perfect for a quiet boat ride. Come early in the morning or near sunset to avoid crowds and enjoy its reflective serenity.
2. Great Wall of China (Badaling or Mutianyu Sections)
World Wonder | Epic Hike | Bucket-List Travelers | Ancient Defense
A trip to Beijing isn’t complete without standing atop the Great Wall, gazing over the hills that stretch endlessly toward the horizon. While the Wall spans thousands of miles, two sections near Beijing are especially popular for visitors—Badaling and Mutianyu.
Badaling, the most visited section, is easily accessible and well-restored, offering dramatic views and an iconic feel. It’s ideal if you’re short on time or traveling with kids, though expect crowds.
For a more scenic and less congested experience, I recommend Mutianyu. Surrounded by lush forested mountains, this section boasts restored watchtowers and a cable car for easier access. You can also hike a stretch for panoramic views and a deeper appreciation of its historical scale.
Both sites are about 1.5 to 2 hours from central Beijing, and it’s best to go early in the day. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and check the weather—conditions on the Wall can be windy or hot, depending on the season.
3. Forbidden City (Palace Museum)
Imperial Heritage | Palace Tour | First-Time Visitors | Dynastic History
Right at the heart of Beijing lies the Forbidden City, the majestic seat of power for 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties. With nearly 1,000 buildings across 180 acres, it is the world’s largest palace complex and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Walking through the towering Meridian Gate, you’ll be transported into a world of vermillion halls, golden rooftops, and intricately painted beams. Highlights include the Hall of Supreme Harmony, where emperors once held court, and the Imperial Garden, an oasis of ancient pines and sculpted rocks.
Plan for at least half a day to explore the Palace Museum thoroughly. It’s best to book tickets online in advance, as entry numbers are capped daily. Audio guides in multiple languages are available and highly recommended for historical context.
Don’t forget to pause at the central axis—the same line that links the Forbidden City to Tiananmen Square and beyond—a powerful symbol of China’s imperial and national identity.
4. Temple of Heaven
Spiritual Harmony | Ming Architecture | Cultural Enthusiasts | Ritual Site
A masterpiece of Ming dynasty architecture and cosmological symbolism, the Temple of Heaven is where emperors once came to pray for good harvests and divine favor. Located in the southeastern part of Beijing, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is as much a sacred site as it is a stunning work of design.
The centerpiece is the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, a triple-gabled circular structure built entirely of wood without a single nail. Its deep blue tiles and vibrant detailing mirror the heavens above. Other key structures include the Imperial Vault of Heaven and the Circular Mound Altar, all aligned with ancient Chinese cosmological beliefs.
But the temple grounds are more than just monuments—they’re a living cultural hub. Come in the early morning to witness locals practicing tai chi, singing opera, or flying kites. It’s a joyful, communal space that gives you a glimpse of daily Beijing life.
Plan for at least two hours to explore both the architecture and the vast surrounding park. The site is especially beautiful in spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the tree-lined walkways are at their most picturesque.
5. Tiananmen Square
National Symbol | Political History | Thoughtful Travelers | Civic Landmark
Adjacent to the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square is not only the world’s largest public square but also one of the most politically and historically charged spaces in China. It has borne witness to moments of great pride, solemn ceremony, and complex history.
At the north end stands the Tiananmen Gate, adorned with the iconic portrait of Chairman Mao, marking the entrance to the Forbidden City. In the center lies the Monument to the People’s Heroes, and just south, the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong, where visitors still line up to view the leader’s preserved body.
The flag-raising ceremony at dawn is a solemn and patriotic event worth witnessing, especially for early risers. Crowds gather to watch as soldiers march in formation and raise the Chinese flag with military precision timed to the sunrise.
Tiananmen Square is a space of contrasts—grand yet stark, open yet deeply symbolic. Allow time to absorb the atmosphere, and be respectful of its significance, particularly in light of its complex historical events.
6. Lama Temple (Yonghe Temple)
Tibetan Buddhism | Serene Escape | Spiritual Seekers | Living Monastery
The Lama Temple, or Yonghe Gong, is Beijing’s most famous Tibetan Buddhist temple and an oasis of incense and calm amidst the city’s hustle. Originally built as a residence for a Qing prince, it later became a lamasery, blending Han Chinese and Tibetan architectural styles.
As you pass through its series of ornate halls, you’ll encounter richly decorated prayer wheels, giant incense burners, and statues of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. The star attraction is the Maitreya Buddha in the Wanfu Pavilion—a towering 18-meter-tall statue carved from a single piece of white sandalwood.
The temple remains active, so you’ll often see worshippers lighting incense and chanting. Be sure to move clockwise through the halls as a sign of respect, and dress modestly during your visit.
Yonghe Temple is conveniently located near the Beijing Confucius Temple, making it easy to combine the two for a deeper look at Beijing’s religious and philosophical traditions.
7. 798 Art Zone
Contemporary Art | Creative Scene | Urban Explorers | Industrial Chic
Step into the avant-garde heart of Beijing at the 798 Art Zone, where contemporary art meets post-industrial grit. Once a sprawling complex of Soviet-era electronics factories, this area in Dashanzi has been transformed into one of China’s most dynamic cultural districts.
Wander through its graffiti-covered alleys and Bauhaus-style warehouses, now repurposed as galleries, design shops, cafes, and studios. You’ll find a rotating mix of experimental exhibitions at spaces like UCCA Center for Contemporary Art, alongside quirky installations and street art that blur the line between public space and gallery.
This is the place to experience Beijing’s creative pulse—bold, unfiltered, and constantly evolving. It’s not just for art aficionados either; the entire area is highly photogenic, with sculptures, murals, and industrial relics offering plenty of visual intrigue.
Plan for a half-day visit, especially if you enjoy slow strolls, coffee breaks, and discovering independent bookstores or concept stores. Many of the venues host events, talks, or performances, so check ahead for current happenings if you want a more immersive experience.
8. Beihai Park
Scenic Retreat | Lake Views | Local Encounters | Qing Garden
A tranquil haven just west of the Forbidden City, Beihai Park is one of Beijing’s oldest and most beloved imperial gardens. Built during the Liao dynasty and refined by subsequent dynasties, it’s centered around a vast lake and dotted with temples, pavilions, and meandering walkways.
At the heart of the park is the White Dagoba, a striking Tibetan-style stupa perched on Jade Flower Island. Climb the hill for panoramic views over the lake and city rooftops—it’s especially magical at sunset. The Nine-Dragon Screen, an elaborate glazed tile wall, is another highlight, famed for its vibrant artistry.
Locals come here to dance, play instruments, or row paddle boats across the calm waters. For travelers, it’s a peaceful way to experience Beijing’s leisurely rhythm and natural beauty.
Visit in spring when cherry blossoms bloom, or in autumn when the willows turn golden. You can also rent a boat and drift across the lake, with the skyline of old Beijing as your backdrop.
9. Ming Tombs (Shisanling)
Imperial Necropolis | Ancestral Reverence | History Buffs | Sacred Burial Grounds
Nestled at the foot of Tianshou Mountain, about 50 kilometers north of central Beijing, the Ming Tombs—known as Shisanling, or “Thirteen Tombs”—are the final resting place of 13 Ming dynasty emperors. This UNESCO-listed necropolis is both awe-inspiring and atmospheric, offering insight into imperial rituals and architecture.
The most accessible and elaborately restored tomb is Dingling, the burial site of Emperor Wanli and his empresses. You can descend into the subterranean chamber and see replicas of the red-lacquered coffins and stone thrones. The Sacred Way, lined with stone guardian animals and officials, creates a grand approach to the tombs and is ideal for a scenic walk.
Visiting the tombs gives you a broader view of Chinese beliefs about death, legacy, and cosmology. It’s also a rewarding half-day trip, often combined with a visit to the Great Wall at Badaling, which lies nearby.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the site covers a wide area, and bring water—especially in warmer months.
10. Jingshan Park
Panoramic View | Leisure Walks | Photographers | Hilltop Garden
Just north of the Forbidden City lies Jingshan Park, a quiet hilltop retreat with perhaps the best panoramic view in all of Beijing. The park centers around Jingshan Hill, a man-made mound created using earth excavated from the palace moat and nearby canals during the Ming dynasty.
Climb the gentle slopes to the Wanchun Pavilion at the summit. From here, you’ll enjoy a sweeping view over the golden roofs of the Forbidden City, framed by Beijing’s modern skyline to the south and the Drum and Bell Towers to the north. It’s especially popular at sunrise and sunset, when the city is bathed in golden light.
Jingshan is more than just a viewpoint. It’s a cherished local gathering place where retirees sing opera, play traditional instruments, and practice dance or calligraphy. Visit early in the morning for a glimpse into Beijing’s active and social daily life.
History buffs will note that this is also the site where the last Ming emperor, Chongzhen, tragically ended his reign, adding a solemn layer to the park’s otherwise tranquil atmosphere.
11. Beijing Temple of Confucius
Philosophical Legacy | Cultural Roots | Scholars & Learners | Confucian Shrine
A short walk from the Lama Temple, the Beijing Temple of Confucius is a serene complex dedicated to China’s greatest philosopher. Built in 1302, it’s the second-largest Confucian temple in the country, offering an elegant, scholarly ambiance distinct from the grandeur of Buddhist and imperial sites.
The temple is a quiet enclave of red walls, ancient pines, and stone steles etched with the names of past scholars who passed the imperial exams. One of its most striking features is the Chengxin Gate, behind which lie solemn courtyards and ceremonial halls where Confucian rites were once conducted.
You’ll also find fascinating artifacts in the Confucian Museum, including ritual vessels, stone drums, and ancient musical instruments. The peaceful setting makes it a perfect spot for contemplation and a deeper understanding of Chinese ethics, education, and philosophy.
Combine your visit with the neighboring Imperial Academy (Guozijian), the highest educational institution in imperial China, to get a fuller picture of traditional scholarly life.
12. Beijing Capital Museum
Curated Heritage | Interactive Exhibits | Culture-Lovers | Art & History Museum
To understand Beijing’s complex historical layers, there’s no better place than the Beijing Capital Museum. Housed in a modern architectural gem near Muxidi, this expansive institution showcases over 200,000 cultural relics, though only a portion is on permanent display at any one time.
The exhibits are thoughtfully curated, covering everything from ancient bronzes and Buddhist statues to Qing dynasty calligraphy and intricate jade carvings. One highlight is the Ancient Capital Beijing exhibit, which traces the city’s evolution through dynasties with maps, models, and artifacts.
Unlike more tourist-heavy sites, the Capital Museum offers a quieter, more reflective experience. English signage is available, and guided tours or audio guides help deepen your understanding of Beijing’s cultural trajectory.
Set aside two to three hours for your visit. Admission is usually free, but you’ll need to book tickets in advance online or at the gate with ID.
13. Beijing National Stadium (Bird’s Nest)
Modern Icon | Olympic Legacy | Sports Fans | Architectural Showcase
A symbol of modern China’s ambition and design innovation, the Beijing National Stadium, affectionately known as the Bird’s Nest, is a must-see for architecture enthusiasts and Olympic fans alike. Designed by Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron in collaboration with Chinese artist Ai Weiwei, the stadium was the centerpiece of the 2008 Summer Olympics and remains a landmark of contemporary Beijing.
Located in the Olympic Green, the stadium’s interwoven steel beams mimic a bird’s nest, symbolizing shelter and new beginnings. While it still hosts sporting events and concerts, many visitors come just to admire its structure—especially when it’s illuminated at night, casting reflections across the water features nearby.
You can explore the interior through a self-guided tour that includes exhibition areas, VIP lounges, and the stadium’s upper decks for sweeping views. Adjacent to the Water Cube (Beijing National Aquatics Center), it’s worth combining both visits for a fuller appreciation of the Olympic legacy.
For an immersive experience, consider attending a performance or event here. Otherwise, evening strolls around the lit-up plaza offer one of Beijing’s most photogenic modern vistas.
14. National Museum of China
National Treasures | In-Depth History | Curious Minds | Grand Exhibition Hall
Facing Tiananmen Square, the National Museum of China offers a sweeping narrative of Chinese civilization from prehistoric times to the present. One of the world’s largest museums, it blends the Museum of Chinese History and the Museum of the Chinese Revolution into a single institution that’s both encyclopedic and state-of-the-art.
Inside, you’ll find treasures like the 2,000-year-old Simuwu Ding, the heaviest ancient bronze vessel ever found, and the exquisite Jade Burial Suit of Prince Liu Sheng. The museum’s galleries span millennia, from Neolithic pottery to Tang dynasty murals and modern propaganda posters.
It’s a place where you can trace the rise and transformation of China in a curated, contemplative setting. Multilingual labels, digital guides, and rotating exhibitions make it accessible and engaging even for first-time visitors.
Admission is free, but advanced reservations are essential and security checks are strict—bring valid ID or passport. Plan at least three hours to explore the highlights, or longer if you’re a history aficionado.
Final Thoughts
Beijing is a city that defies easy definition. It’s where imperial grandeur meets revolutionary legacy, where ancient philosophies breathe alongside contemporary creativity. Whether you’re wandering through palace courtyards, climbing the Great Wall, or sipping tea in a local hutong, you’ll find each corner of Beijing telling its own story.