Beijing Attractions

Discover the must-see attractions and landmarks in Beijing

Forbidden City
Forbidden City

Imperial palace complex with 9,999 rooms, served as home to emperors for nearly 500 years

3-4 hours
¥60 (Apr-Oct), ¥40 (Nov-Mar)
Early morning or late afternoon

Highlights:

  • Hall of Supreme Harmony
  • Imperial Garden
  • Treasure Gallery
Great Wall (Mutianyu)
Great Wall (Mutianyu)

Best-preserved section near Beijing with stunning mountain scenery and fewer crowds

4-6 hours (including travel)
¥45 + Cable car ¥100
Spring and autumn for best weather

Highlights:

  • Watchtower 14
  • Cable car ride
  • Toboggan descent
Tiananmen Square
Tiananmen Square

World's largest public square, symbol of China's political power and history

1-2 hours
Free
Early morning for flag ceremony

Highlights:

  • Flag-raising ceremony
  • Monument to People's Heroes
  • Great Hall of the People
Temple of Heaven
Temple of Heaven

Masterpiece of Ming architecture where emperors prayed for good harvests

2-3 hours
¥35 (park + buildings)
Morning when locals practice Tai Chi

Highlights:

  • Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests
  • Echo Wall
  • Circular Mound Altar
Summer Palace
Summer Palace

Imperial garden with beautiful lake, traditional architecture and landscaping

3-4 hours
¥60 (Apr-Oct), ¥50 (Nov-Mar)
Late afternoon for sunset views

Highlights:

  • Longevity Hill
  • Kunming Lake
  • Long Corridor
Planning Your Beijing Attractions Tour

Best Visiting Order

  • • Start early with major attractions to avoid crowds
  • • Group nearby attractions together
  • • Save indoor attractions for hot afternoons
  • • End with evening attractions for night views

Money-Saving Tips

  • • Book tickets online for discounts
  • • Consider multi-attraction passes
  • • Visit free attractions during peak hours
  • • Check for student or senior discounts