Beijing Travel

Beijing's central axis links the Forbidden City, Tiananmen and the Drum and Bell Towers, the Great Wall runs across the hills to the north, and the Summer Palace and Temple of Heaven preserve imperial garden and ritual architecture intact. Save half a day for the hutongs and Shichahai, where old and new meet on the same street.

Essential sights

The Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, the Great Wall at Badaling or Mutianyu, the Summer Palace, the Temple of Heaven, the National Museum and Yonghe Temple; for culture lovers add Prince Gong's Mansion, Liulichang and Nanluoguxiang.

Suggested pace

Five classic days: Tiananmen – Forbidden City – Jingshan; Temple of Heaven – Qianmen; Mutianyu Great Wall; Summer Palace – Old Summer Palace; hutongs and Shichahai.

Six to seven days: add the National Museum, Yonghe Temple and Prince Gong's Mansion, or an evening of Peking opera or acrobatics — ideal for families and senior groups.

Season and transport

September to November brings clear, crisp days and April to May is mild and green; winter is dry and cold but quieter, and the Great Wall after snow is unforgettable. Arrive at Capital or Daxing International Airport; the metro is excellent downtown, while the Great Wall and outer sights are best reached by private car.