Recommended Duration: 2–3 days
As China’s capital, Beijing is home to two major international airports and numerous global flight routes, making it easy to find direct or affordable connecting flights.
Beijing stands as the cultural and political heart of China, offering an accessible window into the country’s long and storied past. Must-see landmarks include the Forbidden City - a magnificent imperial palace complex from the Ming and Qing dynasties - and the Great Wall, an awe-inspiring ancient fortification spanning rugged mountains. The Temple of Heaven, where emperors once prayed for good harvests, remains a masterpiece of Chinese ritual architecture.
Beyond the iconic sites, Beijing invites you to connect with local life. Wander through the traditional alleyways known as hutongs, take a rickshaw ride through historic neighborhoods, and join hands-on cultural activities like dumpling making, paper cutting, and diabolo (Chinese yo-yo) playing. Don’t miss Beijing’s culinary delights, from aromatic Peking duck to hearty zhajiangmian (noodles with fried sauce).
Despite its status as a bustling metropolis, Beijing remains an affordable destination. Accommodation, guides, and transportation are reasonably priced, so including Beijing in your itinerary won’t stretch your budget.
