10 Best Things to Do in Beijing: Must-See Attractions & Activities

Ever feel like you have a travel bucket list so long you might need a second lifetime? Yeah, same. But if Beijing isn’t on it yet, let’s fix that—fast. This city mixes ancient wonders with tech-powered modern chaos (honestly, is there anything more epic than ancient pagodas next to high-speed trains?). Whether you’re trip planning or just daydreaming, finding the best things to do in Beijing isn’t just practical—it’s basically essential for anyone craving history, street eats, and adventure.

1. Walk the (Actual) Great Wall of China

Alright, starting with a heavy hitter: the Great Wall. I know, cliché, right? But you cannot visit Beijing and skip this. And yes, it really is as gobsmacking as everyone says.

• Best sections: The restored Mutianyu is less crowded than tourist-mobbed Badaling. Want untouched and wild? Try Jiankou (watch your step!).
• Travel hack: Go early morning—selfie sticks haven’t arrived yet 😉
• Fun fact: The Wall’s visible from space thing? Sorry, NASA says that’s a myth—but your Insta pics are guaranteed stunners.

Pro tip: Wear decent shoes. I once tried to climb part of Jiankou in flimsy sneakers—big mistake. 0/10, would not recommend.

2. Lose Yourself in the Forbidden City

Things to do in Beijing don’t get much more iconic than wandering the sprawling courtyards of the Forbidden City. This place is huuuuge (9,999.5 rooms? Who’s counting half-rooms, anyway?). I got lost here for an hour once and honestly, didn’t even mind.

• Must-see: Hall of Supreme Harmony (it’s the big, “wow!” one).
• Skip the lines: Buy tickets online if you dislike queues as much as I do.
• Did you know? Commoners couldn’t even look at this place back in the day. Talk about exclusive.

3. Stand in Awe at the Temple of Heaven

You want serene and spiritual? Head to Temple of Heaven Park. Locals practice tai chi at sunrise, trees older than your great-grandparents, and a main temple built entirely without nails (my IKEA bookshelf is jealous).

• Best for: Early morning strolls.
• Fun moment: Watch retired folks belt out Beijing opera by the east gate.
• Pro tip: Bring a picnic—parks in Beijing are next-level chill spots.

4. Chow Down on Beijing Duck

I’d honestly travel across the world for good food. Beijing roast duck? Worth every greasy, delicious calorie.

• Where to go: Quanjude is famous, but Da Dong makes a juicier version IMO.
• How to eat: Crispy skin, a brush of hoisin, cucumber, scallions, pancake—repeat.
• Try this: Local jiaozi (dumplings). Cheaper than a movie ticket, way tastier.

Honest note: Some “tourist traps” have okay duck, but small alleys and decades-old hole-in-the-walls? GOLD.

5. Stroll the Summer Palace (& Take a Dragon Boat)

If you only have time for one “palace,” this is it. The Summer Palace feels like a magical lakeside escape—you half expect to see a Disney princess (or, more realistically, a member of local cosplay club).

• Don’t miss: The Longevity Hill views and those trippy painted corridors.
• Must do: Ride a dragon-shaped paddle boat on Kunming Lake.
• Hot tip: Go in late afternoon so you catch sunset over the lake—a total “Instagram or it didn’t happen” moment.

6. Get Lost in the Hutongs

Wait, what’s a hutong? Think old-school alleyways packed with stories, red lanterns, and adorable neighborhood cats (every hutong has one, trust me).

• Best hutongs: Nanluoguxiang (vibey but a bit touristy), Wudaoying (hipster cafés galore), Shichahai (classic lakeside vibes).
• Try: Street food like jianbing (savory crepes) or candied hawthorn skewer. Way better than your airline snack, no shade.
• Insider hint: These areas turn magical at night—lanterns lit, music floating, dreamy.

Honestly, I think wandering the hutongs is one of the most authentic things to do in Beijing, hands down.

7. Marvel at the Lama Temple

Feeling “I need more zen in my life?” Detour to the Lama Temple (Yonghe Gong). Incense smoke wafts, monks chant, intricate carvings everywhere. Also: a massive 18-meter-tall Buddha carved out of a single sandalwood tree. How?!?

• Best for: Re-centering after crowded tourist spots.
• Fun fact: Once an imperial palace, now a chill spot for locals and pilgrims.

8. Check Out 798 Art District

Weird art? Check. Funky cafés? Check. Ultra-Instagrammable murals? Double-check. 798 Art District is where Beijing throws its artsy party hats on.

• Why go: It’s gritty, creative, and nothing like those ancient temples. If you’re an art nerd (or just love edgy backdrops for selfies), add it to your things to do in Beijing list.
• Extra tip: Look for open-air sculptures and guerilla pop-ups in old factories.

Real talk: Not every gallery is mind-blowing, but wandering the alleys here is always a trip.

9. Browse the Panjiayuan Antique Market

Do you need a Qing Dynasty teapot or Mao memorabilia? Of course not. Will you leave Panjiayuan Market with a bag of random trinkets and a giant grin? 100%.

• Why visit: Flea market madness, rare art, vintage coins—awesome for people-watching, too.
• Bargain hard: Haggling isn’t rude, it’s basically an Olympic sport here.
• Local tip: Best on weekends when all the good stalls open.

Warning: You will over-buy. It’s not a bug, it’s a feature. 🙂

10. Discover the Secret Side of Beijing at Jingshan Park

You ever want “the” photo? The money shot of the Forbidden City and Beijing skyline? Hike up the small hill in Jingshan Park for panoramic bliss.

• Also love: Locals singing folk songs under the trees (yes, really).
• Pro move: Arrive right before sunset. Watch the light hit the golden roofs—chef’s kiss.
• Bonus: The climb is like 10 minutes tops (no fitness regrets).

Hand to heart, this exact spot’s in my top three “wow, I’m actually here!” Beijing moments.

Other Cool Things to Do in Beijing (Bonus Round!)

Honestly, the city overflows with hidden gems and fun distractions. Here’s a super-quick list so you don’t miss out:

• Beihai Park: Boats, pagodas, and killer views.
• Peking Opera: Even if you don’t understand a word, you’ll feel the drama.
• CBD Skyline at Night: Beijing glows differently after dark.
• Local food tours: Street food > overpriced hotel buffet, always.

Essential Beijing Travel Tips

Let’s keep it real—amazing trips thrive on good hacks:

• Transport is cheap and easy: Subway rocks (grab a Yikatong card).
• VPN is life: China blocks Google, Instagram, etc. A VPN is a must for FOMO avoidance.
• Learning a little Mandarin wins hearts: Even “ni hao” (hello) or “xiexie” (thanks) gets big smiles.
• Cashless is king: Alipay/WeChat Pay rule. Otherwise, carry cash for tiny shops.

Psst—No, you don’t need to eat scorpions on a stick. Unless you really, really want to…

Final Thoughts: Why Beijing Needs to Be on Your Must-Visit List

So, those are my 10 absolute must-do things to do in Beijing—and a few bonus tricks, because I can’t help myself. From ancient wonders to street food feasts, Beijing hits that perfect “magic travel balance” of comfort and culture shock. You’ll go home with a camera roll packed with jaw-dropping scenery, and a suitcase that somehow weighs double (don’t ask).

If you’ve ever wanted to feel tiny in the best way—standing on the Great Wall, staring out over golden-roofed palaces—this city’s for you.

So yeah, if you’ve been sleeping on this, now’s the time to wake up and give it a shot. Trust me—you’ll thank yourself later. 😉 Any other Beijing tips or hidden gems? Drop ‘em in the comments below!