Beijing’s Best Activities: 10 Must-Do Experiences for an Unforgettable Trip
These activities offer a rich blend of history, culture, and local experiences, allowing visitors to explore Beijing’s iconic landmarks, enjoy its famous cuisine, and immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
Beijing, a city with thousands of years of history and modern civilization, is the holy land in every traveler's heart. Whether it's to trace the footsteps of history or feel the pulse of the city, there are countless reasons to visit here. Here are ten things you must do when traveling to Beijing that will make your trip full of meaning and memories.
1. Climb The Great Wall and be a good man
“As one of the symbols of China, the Great Wall is a must-see for every traveler visiting Beijing. Whether it's the majestic BaDaling Great Wall or the beautiful and quiet Mutianyu Great Wall, every step of the way echoes with history and makes you marvel at the wisdom and courage of the ancients.
2. The Forbidden City, through the past and present
The Forbidden City, also known as the Forbidden City, is the world's largest and most well-preserved wooden structure of ancient buildings. Strolling between the red walls and yellow tiles, it is like traveling back to the Ming and Qing Dynasties to feel the majesty and luxury of the royal family. Don't forget to visit the Treasure Museum and the Clock Museum, where there are countless breathtaking rare treasures.
3. Witness the flag-raising ceremony at Tian'anmen Square
Early in the morning, when the first ray of sunshine pours on Tian'anmen Square, accompanied by the sound of the national anthem, the five-star red flag rises. Standing here, participating in or witnessing this solemn flag-raising ceremony is a deep appreciation of the dignity of the country and a baptism of the soul.
4. Stroll in Summer Palace, enjoy the beauty of the royal garden
Summer Palace, one of the four famous gardens in China, is famous for its grand scale, exquisite architecture and rich cultural connotation. Stroll along the Kunming Lake, take a boat trip or climb up Wanshou Mountain for a distant view, all of which will make you mesmerized by the serenity and beauty of the place.
5. Savoring authentic Beijing snacks, a feast for the taste buds
Beijing has a wide variety of snacks, from fried noodles and bean juice with charred rings to roast duck and shabu-shabu, each of which is the ultimate temptation for the tastebuds. Let your taste buds take a trip to a small restaurant in the hutongs or to Wangfujing Snack Street.
6. Visit Hutongs and experience the old Beijing style
Beijing's hutongs are the city's unique cultural symbols, which have witnessed the changes of history and preserved the living atmosphere of old Beijing. Stroll around NanluoguXiang and Shichahai, weaving through the narrow hutongs, feeling the unique tranquility and simplicity.
7. Visit the National Museum to appreciate the profoundness of Chinese civilization.
The National Museum has a rich collection of cultural relics and artifacts, from ancient stone tools and pottery to paintings and ceramics, each exhibit is a treasure of Chinese civilization. Here you can experience the profundity of Chinese civilization up close.
8. Stroll in 798 Art District, feel the charm of modern art
798 Art District is an art landmark in Beijing, where many galleries, art studios and cultural and creative stores are gathered. You can enjoy various avant-garde artworks and feel the unique charm of modern art while strolling in the area.
9. Night of the Bird's Nest and Water Cube, Recalling the Olympic Splendor
As the landmarks of the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, the Bird's Nest (National Stadium) and the Water Cube (National Swimming Center) are even more unique at night. Climb to the top of the Bird's Nest and overlook the entire Olympic Park, or stroll around the Water Cube and feel the passion and glory of the Olympic Games.
10. Rafting in Beihai Park, enjoying leisure time
Beihai Park is one of the best examples of Beijing's royal gardens, with its beautiful lakes and mountains. Rent a boat, rowing leisurely on the lake, or sit by the lake, sipping a pot of tea, enjoy a leisurely time, let the soul get completely relaxed.
Beijing, an ancient yet modern city, is waiting for every traveler to explore, experience and feel.
Explore our recommended itineraries and contact us to customize your ideal Beijing adventure.
China Historical & Landscape Tours
China Cultural and Natural Tour
Contact Us
What Our Clients Say?
Based on 10,000+ traveler reviews
Daniel Dorothea
Canada
Reviewed on April 29,2025
Shopping on Nanjing Road in Shanghai was just amazing! It's truly the "First Commercial Street of China", where tradition and modernity blend perfectly. You can find awesome souvenirs and experience the trendy vibes in cool stores. The neon lights at night are just spectacular, shining bright like Times Square in New York. The food here is incredible too. I had a feast for my taste buds. Shanghai, I'll definitely be back!
Destination(s):
Shanghai
Date of
Experience:
May 08,2024
Elvis Eva
Canada
Reviewed on June 20,2025
As a solo traveler from Canada, I was nervous about navigating China alone—but this 11-day tour was PERFECT! From hiking the Great Wall at sunrise (Day 3) to gasping at the Terracotta Army (Day 5), every day delivered ‘pinch-me’ moments. The real showstopper? Zhangjiajie’s Avatar Mountains (Day 7)! Our guide made the stone pillars come alive with stories.
Massive thanks for handling all logistics—bullet train tickets, entry passes, car! And the 4-star hotels surprised me.
Destination(s):
Beijing Xian Zhangjiajie Shanghai
Date of
Experience:
June 02,2025
Simon
America
Reviewed on May 29,2025
Our 2-day Zhangjiajie tour was beyond spectacular! As someone who’s visited Beijing and Shanghai for work, this trip revealed China’s wild, magical heart. Day 1 in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park felt like stepping onto Pandora—I’m a huge Avatar fan, and Yuanjiajie’s floating peaks left me breathless. The misty pillars and lush valleys like pure movie magic!
Then came Fenghuang Ancient Town, we eat dinner beside the thundering waterfall. It seems Unreal! The night views of stilt houses glowing over the river were straight from a fairy tale.
For fellow Avatar lovers and adventure seekers: Don’t miss this bucket-list experience! 10/10 would return.
A Well-Traveled Film Buff, May 2025
Destination(s):
Zhangjiajie
Date of
Experience:
May 08,2025
