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Picture of Beijing, China

Travel Guide for
Beijing

China

Monsoon-influenced, humid continental

Introduction

Beijing, China’s vibrant capital, is a city where ancient history and modern life blend seamlessly. Located in the north of the country, it boasts iconic sites like the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and lively hutongs—narrow alleyways lined with shops and street food.

In mid-June, expect warm weather, perfect for exploring parks and outdoor attractions with friends. Enjoy authentic local eats, people-watching at open-air markets, or biking around scenic spots—all budget-friendly ways to soak up Beijing’s rich culture and dynamic energy.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleTravelling with friends

Dates13-14 June 2025

BudgetLow budget

AccommodationHotel

Interests and Activities:

family activities

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Picture of Beijing, China

Itinerary

Experience a fun-filled day with friends by exploring Beijing's vibrant culture, scenic parks, and engaging public spaces while keeping expenses to a minimum.

Stroll and Picnic at Temple of Heaven Park

Begin your day with a relaxing walk through the Temple of Heaven Park, a sprawling green space loved by locals for tai chi, music, and casual games. Pack snacks for a budget-friendly picnic under ancient trees.

See the Sights at Nanluoguxiang Alley

Wander the lively lanes of Nanluoguxiang, famed for its traditional hutongs, quirky shops, and street snacks. It's perfect for affordable window shopping and snapping fun group photos with friends.

Visit Beijing Olympic Park

Explore the iconic Olympic Green, where you’ll find landmarks like the Bird's Nest and Water Cube. The vast open spaces are great for group games, strolls, and picnics without spending much.

Beijing Private Tour of Temple of Heaven, Tian'anmen Square, Forbidden City

Beijing Private Tour of Temple of Heaven, Tian'anmen Square, Forbidden City

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Explore Beijing’s architectural wonders and cultural heritage with three tailored packages. The Budget Option (subway transport without lunch) covers Tiananmen Square, the UNESCO-listed Forbidden City (with private guide), and Temple of Heaven. The Comfort Option offers the same route as the Budget Option but upgrades to private car transfers for hassle-free travel, plus a local lunch. The In-depth Option adds the UNESCO-listed Summer Palace to the above sites (Tiananmen, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven). It includes private car and guide, letting you fully experience four cultural landmarks, from the Forbidden City’s imperial history to the Summer Palace’s garden beauty, along with local dining. All packages feature personalized guidance to avoid rushed visits, ensuring an immersive Beijing experience.

4.9 (194 reviews)

From $100 USD

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Key Facts

Location

Northern China

Currency

Renminbi (Yuan) (CNY)

Religion

Buddhism, Taoism, Folk

Population

21,893,095

Language

Mandarin Chinese, Beijing dialect

Electricity

220V, 50Hz, Type A/C/I

Time zone

UTCCST (UTC+8)

Country code

+86

Internet access

Widespread, fast, some restrictions

Climate

Monsoon-influenced, humid continental

See More China Facts

Language:

Chinese

  • hello

    你好 (nee how)
  • goodbye

    再见 (dzye jee-en)
  • yes

    是的 (shir duh)
  • no

    不是 (boo shir)
  • how much

    这个多少钱? (juh guh dwor shao chyen)
  • please

    (ching)
  • thank you

    谢谢 (shieh shieh)
  • excuse me

    对不起 (dway boo chee)

Map

Logistics

Beijing is easiest to reach by air, with Beijing Capital and Daxing International Airports serving many global cities; booking early can secure affordable rates. Budget travelers arriving from nearby countries might consider international trains from Mongolia or Russia, or long-distance buses from within China, though train tickets should be reserved in advance.

Once in China, bullet trains connect most major cities to Beijing quickly and economically—perfect for friends traveling together. While June weather can bring rain, there are typically no major disruptions around June 13-14, though it’s wise to have flexible travel plans in case of summer storms. Boats aren’t practical for getting to Beijing since it’s inland.

Weather

Beijing experiences a continental climate with four distinct seasons: hot, humid summers; cold, dry winters; and short, pleasant spring and autumn periods. Temperatures can swing sharply throughout the year, from below freezing in winter to well over 30°C (86°F) in mid-summer.

From June 13 to June 14, expect warm weather, with daytime highs around 29-32°C (84-90°F) and increased humidity. Occasional showers or thunderstorms may occur, but extreme weather events are unlikely. The air quality can vary, so planning outdoor family activities in the mornings or after rain showers is ideal for comfortable sightseeing.

Food & Drink

Beijing’s cuisine is famous for dishes like Peking duck, jianbing (savory crepes), zhajiangmian (noodles with soybean paste), and spicy lamb skewers sold at vibrant night markets. Try street stalls in Wangfujing Snack Street or Donghuamen Night Market for authentic, affordable bites, and sip local yanjing beer at a lively hutong bar.

Visit inexpensive places like Mr. Shi’s Dumplings for creative dumplings, or grab noodles at Xianlaoman. Cafés in Gulou hutong neighborhoods offer cozy spots for coffee and tea. Bars like Great Leap Brewing are great for local craft beer.

Tipping isn’t expected, as service charges are often included. Many restaurants cater to vegetarians, but checking ingredient lists is wise. During holidays, reservations are recommended since spots fill up quickly.

A picture of Peking Duck

Peking Duck

Peking Duck is a famous Chinese dish featuring crispy duck skin, tender duck meat, and thin pancakes, all...

A picture of Xiaolongbao

Xiaolongbao

Xiaolongbao is a type of steamed bun (baozi) originating from Jiangsu province. Filled with hot soup and a...

A picture of Mapo Tofu

Mapo Tofu

Mapo Tofu is a spicy Sichuan dish made with soft tofu, minced meat, and fermented black beans, all...

A picture of Hot Pot

Hot Pot

Hot Pot is a communal dining experience involving a simmering pot of flavorful broth into which various raw...

A picture of Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken is a classic Sichuan dish featuring tender chunks of chicken stir-fried with peanuts, vegetables, and...

Accommodation

For budget travelers seeking hotels, the Dongcheng and Xicheng districts are ideal—close to sights like the Forbidden City and Wangfujing. Well-rated options include the 365 Inn Hostel and Beijing Saga Youth Hostel, which offer private rooms at reasonable prices, perfect for groups of friends wanting comfort without extravagance.

Chaoyang is another energetic neighborhood with affordable chain hotels like Jinjiang Inn and ibis, and you’ll find booking deals on websites like Booking.com, Trip.com, and Agoda. June is busy due to local tourism and graduation trips, so book early and consider flexible rates in case plans change. Beijing’s public transit is excellent, so prioritize easy subway access for convenience.

Attractions

4.3 (772 reviews)
Great Wall of China at Badaling and Ming Tombs Day Tour from Beijing

Great Wall of China at Badaling and Ming Tombs Day Tour from Beijing

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

See two of China's most popular destinations, the World Heritage-listed Great Wall of China and the Ming Tombs, on one unforgettable guided day trip from Beijing. You'll visit the Badaling section of the Great Wall, one of the best-preserved parts of this colossal structure, and explore the Chang Ling Tomb, the largest of the excavated Ming emperor burial sites. Lunch and round-trip hotel transport are included, with expert commentary from a knowledgeable guide throughout your full-day tour. To complete your sightseeing you'll have the opportunity to enjoy Jade Factory and tea taste.

From $87 USD

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4.6 (709 reviews)
Beijing Essential Full-Day Tour including Great Wall at Badaling, Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square

Beijing Essential Full-Day Tour including Great Wall at Badaling, Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

See all of Beijing’s cultural and historical highlights on a comprehensive and captivating full-day tour of China’s capital city. Stroll amid the majestic charm of Tiananmen Square; marvel at the imaginative architecture at the Forbidden City; and see the verdant splendor that surrounds the Badaling Great Wall of China. Alongside your knowledgeable guide, gain fascinating insight into the rich history and distinctive culture of Beijing and enjoy convenient round-trip transportation from selected hotels. •Full-day tour of Beijing's essential attractions: Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City and Great Wall at Badaling •Visiting one of the best preserved sections of the Great Wall of China at Badaling •Shopping at the Longdi Jade Factory •Pickup and drop off from hotels within 4th ring circle road

From $99 USD

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5.0 (364 reviews)
Beijing: Full-Day Small-Group Great Wall Hiking at Jinshanling

Beijing: Full-Day Small-Group Great Wall Hiking at Jinshanling

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

As the most popular hiking trip of Great Wall around Beijing, it will show you both untouched and restored sections of the Great Wall at Simatai West and Jinshanling within 3 hours. We will reach the Wall by Kylin Tower at Simatai West, and then walk westward to Jinshanling. We will get off the wall at Shalingkou at Jinshanling, or you can walk another 30 minutes if you feel energetic and then get off the wall at Zhuanduokou . The unrestored wall, the watch towers, the beacon towers snake on the mountain from east to west. You will have chance to meet local farmer friends, try local home-made food and learn local community development. It is the best place for keen photographers along the wall. Regarding fitness it is a medium-level hiking for all ages.

From $138 USD

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5.0 (235 reviews)
Beijing: Mutianyu Great Wall Private Tour

Beijing: Mutianyu Great Wall Private Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Visit the Great Wall of China at Mutianyu, It's UNESCO World Heritage sites. The Great Wall of China is one of the most popular attractions in China, yet the Mutianyu section attracts fewer visitors, which means you get a less crowded experience of this world-famous landmark.

From $80 USD

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4.9 (34 reviews)
Private Half Day Tour to Beijing Panda House and Summer Palace

Private Half Day Tour to Beijing Panda House and Summer Palace

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

In this private 4-hours tour, you will see the adorable giant panda bear in Beijing Panda House as well as to explore the famous Summer Palace, the largest royal garden in the world where you can enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the Kunming Lake. In addition, passing by the Olympic Sites to see the exterior of Bird Nest and Water Cube.

From $131 USD

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4.3 (638 reviews)
Great Wall of China at Mutianyu Full-Day Tour Including Lunch from Beijing

Great Wall of China at Mutianyu Full-Day Tour Including Lunch from Beijing

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This full-day Beijing sightseeing tour to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall of China provides an opportunity to experience steeper sections of the wall.The Mutianyu section is older than popular Badaling section and features outer and inner parapets, three watch towers and even an optional cable car ride! To complete your sightseeing you'll have the opportunity to enjoy a jade factory and tea tasting.

From $79 USD

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4.9 (71 reviews)
Private Night Tour: Discover Beijing in Bustling Lights

Private Night Tour: Discover Beijing in Bustling Lights

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This is an evening private tour with English speaking guide from your hotel to many city landmarks and attractions. You will be able to enjoy the beautiful sightseeing of Beijing during the night. Your driver take you around to see through Beijing CBD, SOHO Business Street, Changan Street, Tiananmen Sqaure, Birdnest, Watercube Olypmpic park, Houhai Lake Bar Street and much more to be offered. You will find this capital city in a combination of modern and ancient.

From $81 USD

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4.9 (1953 reviews)
Beijing Full Day Tours: Tiananmen Sq, Forbidden City, Great Wall

Beijing Full Day Tours: Tiananmen Sq, Forbidden City, Great Wall

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Maximize your time with our Beijing full-day tour to tick off three World Heritage Sites in one go: Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, and Great Wall. We’ll handle everything, from hotel pick-up and drop-off, entrance fees, lunch, to the Great Wall round-trip cable car or chairlift up & toboggan down. - Conquer the Great Wall of China at the less-crowded Mutianyu - Explore Beijing’s central axis: Tiananmen Square and Forbidden City - Seamless, door-to-door hotel transfers - All-inclusive and no extra charges: entrance fees, cable cars, and a buffet lunch included

From $99 USD

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