2025 Top 10 Things to Do In Beijing

1. Forbidden City (Palace Museum)

As the world’s largest and best-preserved imperial palace complex, the Forbidden City draws visitors eager to explore centuries of Ming and Qing dynasty history in its grand halls and sprawling courtyards .

2. The Great Wall of China (Mutianyu/Badaling)

Climbing the Great Wall is a must-do. Sections at Badaling and Mutianyu are renowned for their restoration, accessibility, and panoramic mountain vistas—ideal for both casual walkers and photographers .

3. Summer Palace (Yiheyuan)

This imperial garden masterpiece surrounds Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill with ornate pavilions, covered walkways, and scenic boat rides—offering a refreshing escape and a peek into Qing-era leisure .

4. Temple of Heaven (Tiantan)

A UNESCO World Heritage Site where emperors once prayed for good harvests. Visitors are captivated by the circular Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests and the acoustical marvel of the Echo Wall, often paired with early-morning tai chi.

5. 798 Art Zone

Once an electronics factory district, 798 now pulses with contemporary art galleries, street murals, and trendy cafés—making it Beijing’s premier destination for modern art enthusiasts.

6. Hutong Exploration (e.g., Nanluoguxiang, Shichahai)

The city’s historic alleyways (hutongs) invite visitors to bike or stroll past courtyard homes, boutique shops, and local teahouses—offering an authentic taste of old-Beijing community life.

7. Beijing Street Food Crawl (Wangfujing Snack Street)

Sampling local snacks—such as jianbing, tanghulu, and lamb skewers—along Wangfujing or Guijie is a culinary adventure that captures the flavors and energy of Beijing’s street-food scene.

8. Beijing Olympic Park (Bird’s Nest & Water Cube)

Home to the iconic Bird’s Nest stadium and Water Cube aquatics center from the 2008 Olympics, the park offers guided tours and striking night-time illuminations, symbolizing China’s modern achievements.

9. Lama Temple (Yonghe Gong)

A magnificent Tibetan Buddhist temple housed in the former residence of Emperor Yongzheng, famed for its soaring sandstone Buddha and richly decorated prayer halls.

10. Beihai Park

One of China’s oldest imperial gardens, featuring a central lake, the White Dagoba on Jade Flower Island, and scenic walking paths—perfect for a leisurely afternoon boat ride or picnic