Beijing Travel Guide for First-Timers (2026)

Beijing is China's capital and best first stop — the Forbidden City, Great Wall, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, and hutong alleys, with easy metro and Alipay payments.

🌏 North China

🗓️ Suggested: 3–4 days

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北京市东城区

Beijing Shi, Dongcheng Qu

Hotel / city name in Chinese — show to taxi or DiDi drivers

Why visit

Beijing is where China’s imperial past and modern power meet. Must-sees: the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, and a section of the Great Wall (Mutianyu or Badaling).

Getting around

Beijing Capital (PEK) and Daxing (PKX) airports; both link to the city by express rail/metro. For trains to other cities see Trains & Transport →.
Metro is extensive and cheap — buy a Yikatong transit card or use the metro QR in Alipay. For maps and navigation use Amap guide →.
DiDi works well; show drivers the Chinese address below. Public restrooms are common at stations and sights — carry tissues, as they often lack paper.

Payment tip

Alipay/WeChat Pay are accepted almost everywhere. Set up Mobile Payment → before you arrive, and carry a little cash for hutong stalls and small temples.

Suggested plan

Day 1: Forbidden City + Jingshan Park + Wangfujing evening.
Day 2: Great Wall (Mutianyu) day trip.
Day 3: Temple of Heaven + Summer Palace + hutong walk in Nanluoguxiang.
Day 4: 798 Art District + National Museum.

Don’t miss

Peking duck dinner, a hutong rickshaw ride, and a tea house performance.

Frequently asked questions

How many days do I need in Beijing?

Three to four days covers the highlights: Forbidden City, Great Wall, Summer Palace, and a hutong walk.

Can I use credit cards in Beijing?

Mostly no for small vendors. Set up Alipay or WeChat Pay; carry some cash for hutong stalls and temples.

What is Beijing most famous for?

The Forbidden City, the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, Peking duck, and centuries of imperial history.

When is the best time to visit Beijing?

Spring (Apr-May) and autumn (Sep-Oct) have the clearest skies and most comfortable temperatures.

How do I get from Beijing to the Great Wall?

Mutianyu is about 1.5-2 hours by bus or private car; many travelers book a day tour or use DiDi.

Last updated: 2026-08