Beijing Travel Tips: Where to Stay, Attractions, Itineraries & More
As a Canadian traveller who’s visited dozens of global cities, Beijing is definitely one-of-a-kind. Ancient palace grounds sit steps from sleek skyscrapers, old alleyways brim with local life, and world-class food and unique cultural experiences await at every turn. Hike the Great Wall, explore the vast Forbidden City, savour crispy Peking duck, and watch locals practice tai chi at dawn. This is your practical, all-in-one guide to planning a perfect Beijing trip for Canadian visitors.
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Best Time to Visit Beijing: Seasonal Travel Tips for Canadians
Beijing has four distinct seasons, and Canadians will easily recognize its freezing winters and sweltering summers. Proper trip timing is key to a comfortable, enjoyable visit. Below, I break down seasonal weather, crowd levels, and major festivals that impact travel plans.
Spring and Autumn: The Sweet Spots for Beijing Sightseeing
March–May (spring) and September–November (autumn) are Beijing’s best travel seasons. These shoulder seasons feature mild temperatures, low humidity, and far fewer tourists than peak periods. Days are ideal for outdoor sightseeing, while cool evenings make strolling historic sites pleasant and relaxed.
This is the perfect time to explore open-air landmarks including the Great Wall, Summer Palace, and Temple of Heaven. Spring brings blooming blossoms across city parks, while autumn covers Beijing in stunning golden and red foliage, creating picture-perfect sightseeing conditions.
Visiting Beijing in Summer and Winter: What to Expect
- Summer (June–August): Beijing’s summer is hot and humid, with temperatures frequently climbing above 35°C, which can make outdoor sightseeing exhausting. The biggest advantage of visiting in summer is extended daylight hours, allowing you to squeeze in more daily activities. To beat the heat, plan all outdoor landmark visits in the early morning and keep hydrated to prevent heat exhaustion.
- Winter (December–February): Cold, dry winter weather will feel very familiar to Canadian travellers. While warm winter layers are a must, this is an underrated travel season with huge perks. Tourist crowds thin out drastically, major attractions become quiet and peaceful, and Beijing’s historic landmarks take on a tranquil, crisp winter charm.
Two major holidays disrupt travel routines: Chinese New Year (late Jan–mid Feb) and National Day Golden Week (Oct 1–7). Lunar New Year offers vibrant cultural celebrations but brings huge domestic crowds and occasional business closures. National Week floods major sites with tourists, so avoid these periods for relaxed sightseeing.
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Beijing weather - best times to visit Beijing
17 Oct, 2026 BeijingWeather:Heavy rain.Northeasterly wind:0–10 km/hour.Humidity:96%.Sunrise/sunset:06:26/17:33
BeijingTravel:Not suitable.Umbrella:Advised.UV strength:Very low
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Must-Visit Attractions: Top Things to Do in Beijing
Beijing’s top attractions combine timeless imperial history and authentic local culture. Whether you have 3 days or a full week, these must-see spots and practical on-the-ground tips will help you avoid stress and maximize your visit.
Top Beijing Attractions Overview
Below is a streamlined guide to Beijing’s must-see landmarks, including key highlights, visiting tips, and ideal timing to help Canadian travellers plan efficient, stress-free sightseeing.
Attraction | Core Highlights | Best Time to Visit | Practical Travel Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s largest imperial palace complex (720,000㎡), home to 24 ancient emperors. Adjacent Tiananmen Square is one of the globe’s largest public squares, representing Beijing’s iconic central landmark area. | Early morning (8:30 AM opening) | Book timed-entry Forbidden City tickets online in advance; no reliable walk-up tickets in peak seasons. Use north/east entrances for fewer crowds. Spend 2–3 hours exploring. Carry ID for routine security checks at Tiananmen Square and avoid midday crowds. | |
The most traveller-friendly Great Wall section with fully restored ramparts, breathtaking mountain scenery, far fewer crowds than the tourist-heavy Badaling section, plus cable car and toboggan facilities. | Early morning on clear weekdays | Located a 1.5-hour drive from central Beijing. Private car transfers are strongly recommended over complicated public transit. Plan 3–4 hours onsite; take the cable car uphill to avoid strenuous climbing. | |
A classic imperial worship park and a window into local Beijing life. Locals gather daily for tai chi, dancing, and traditional music, delivering authentic cultural vibes. | Sunset / early morning | Visit at sunset for the most atmospheric local scenes. Dress modestly and keep voices low to respect local customs and the site’s cultural significance. | |
Sprawling lakeside imperial retreat featuring Kunming Lake, ancient wooden corridors, classic stone bridges, and peaceful royal garden scenery. | Late afternoon (golden hour) | Soft late-afternoon light creates perfect photography conditions. Take time to wander the waterfront walkways and relax by the lake for a leisurely experience. | |
The best viewpoint for panoramic, unobstructed skyline views of the entire Forbidden City and Beijing’s historic old town core. | Clear daytime, sunset | Visit on sunny, clear days for crisp, postcard-worthy views. Pair with a Forbidden City visit for a seamless one-day historic itinerary. | |
Beijing Hutongs (Nanluoguxiang & Drum Tower Area) | Ancient narrow alleyways that preserve old Beijing’s courtyard culture and local lifestyle. Nanluoguxiang offers boutique shopping and snacks, while nearby Drum Tower hutongs retain authentic residential charm. | Late afternoon to evening | Stroll Nanluoguxiang for casual snacks and souvenirs. For a less commercial, genuine local experience, explore the quiet alleyways around the Drum and Bell Towers. |
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38450 booked
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Beijing Travel Food Tips: What to Eat and Where to Find It
Beijing’s culinary scene boasts centuries of imperial flavours and local classics. As a Canadian traveller who’s sampled the city’s best bites, I’ll share must-try dishes, reliable spots, and common tourist food traps to avoid.
Must-Try Beijing Dishes: From Peking Duck to Hotpot
Beijing’s culinary identity is defined by classic, must-order dishes that every first-time visitor should taste. From world-famous roast duck to comforting local staples, here are the iconic bites and trusted restaurants to add to your food itinerary:
- Peking Duck: Beijing’s signature dish, featuring ultra-crispy roasted skin, tender juicy meat, and traditional servings of thin pancakes, hoisin sauce, cucumber, and scallions. For different flavour styles, choose Da Dong for modern, refined tastes or Deyuan for authentic, traditional classic Peking duck.
- Beijing-Style Mongolian Hotpot: A perfect warm meal for cool weather. It features a mild, clear broth paired with fresh lamb slices, light and less greasy than spicy hotpot. Reliable local options include the historicDong Lai Shun and service-oriented chain Haidilao.
- Jing Jiang Rousi & Handmade Dumplings: Jing Jiang Rousi (sweet bean shredded pork) is a classic local savoury dish best eaten with thin pancakes. For fresh, handmade Chinese dumplings favoured by locals and travellers alike, head to Mr Shi’s.
Beijing Food Experiences: Teahouses, Street Food, and What to Skip
For a cultural evening, visit Lao She Teahouse, ideal for first-timers. It offers tea ceremonies, classic Beijing snacks, and live folk performances including acrobatics and traditional opera.
For authentic street food, head to hutong lanes near Nanluoguxiang and Drum Tower for affordable fresh bites like jianbing and fried chestnuts. Crucially, skip Wangfujing Snack Street — it’s overpriced, low-quality, and purely tourist-focused.
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Getting Around Beijing: Transportation Tips for First-Time Visitors
Photo via Beijing Daily App
Beijing’s public transit is affordable, clean, and user-friendly. Here are my top tips for first-time visitors to navigate the city smoothly for sightseeing and day trips.
Using the Beijing Metro: Routes, Costs, and Insider Tips
The Beijing Metro is my top downtown travel pick. With 27 lines, full English signage and announcements, and fares of 3–5 RMB per ride, it’s budget-friendly and reliable. Grab a rechargeable Yikatong transit card at any station for seamless travel on metro and buses.
Avoid weekday rush hours (7–9 AM, 5–8 PM) and busy weekend afternoons near tourist sites, as trains get extremely crowded.
DiDi, Taxis, and Private Drivers: When to Use Each
DiDi, China’s equivalent of Uber, is the best option for door-to-door city travel. It’s cheaper and more reliable than street taxis with transparent pricing. Download the app and set up foreign payment before arrival to avoid onsite hassle.
Street taxis work for short downtown trips, but private drivers are far better for Great Wall and Summer Palace day trips. They eliminate confusing public transit transfers and let you travel at your own pace.
Where to Stay in Beijing: Best Neighbourhoods for Every Traveller
Your accommodation neighbourhood shapes your Beijing experience. I’ve sorted the best areas for Canadian travellers based on sightseeing needs, budget, and travel style.
Dongcheng District: Best Location for Sightseeing
Dongcheng District is perfect for first-time visitors. This central area is walking-distance from core landmarks: the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Temple of Heaven, and top hutongs, cutting down commute time significantly. Dongcheng offers full-range accommodation, from budget hutong guesthouses to mid-range and luxury hotels, suiting all traveller budgets.
Chaoyang and Sanlitun: Beijing's Modern, Cosmopolitan Hub
Chaoyang District’s Sanlitun area is Beijing’s most international hub, home to five-star hotels, upscale malls, embassies, and a vibrant expat dining and nightlife scene.
Close to the trendy 798 Art District, it’s ideal for travellers wanting modern comforts alongside occasional historic sightseeing, with a short metro ride to old-town attractions.
Find Your Beijing Stay by Travel Style
5 star
Good6574 Reviews
Tian'anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.55km from city centre
I had seen the Grand Hyatt earlier, but this was my first time staying for three days. The opulent lobby and European-style sculptures were impressive. From the moment I stepped out of the car to the front desk, the staff took care of my luggage, which made things so much easier. All the other services also made me feel right at home. If I go back to Beijing, I'll definitely stay here again.From£139
Very Good13045 Reviews
International Trade CBD/Chaoyang Joy City Beijing|2.52km from city centre
This stay at the Sofitel Jian Guo Men left me with a great overall impression.
Before arriving, I communicated with the duty manager, Eli, letting him know it was our first stay and that it coincided with our anniversary. Upon check-in, he immediately upgraded us to an Executive Floor room and had it specially decorated. The attention to detail was exceptional, and we were incredibly impressed from the moment we arrived.
The first impression upon entering was excellent. The lobby had incredibly high ceilings and a grand, bright decor, completely avoiding the oppressive feeling you sometimes get in older hotels.
The layout of the Executive Room was also quite interesting; it wasn't just a generic square box. The space was well-utilized, making it feel much more spacious than I had imagined.
The service overall was hassle-free. Whether it was dealing with the front desk or requesting room service, any issues were addressed very quickly, with no need for back-and-forth.
In the evening, I specifically went to the bar on the basement level. The bartender, Pamper, was very amiable. She asked about my preferred tastes, and the cocktails she made were perfectly to my liking.
Overall, it's a hotel with excellent value for money and well worth staying at.From£90
Very Good4033 Reviews
Yansha Commercial Area Beijing|7.59km from city centre
I drove to Beijing, and since out-of-town cars can't enter the Second Ring Road, I chose this hotel on the Third Ring Road. It's a very old hotel; the room facilities are basically from the 1980s. The worst part was the bed – the kind where if one person turns over, the whole family gets woken up, which meant I didn't sleep well all night.
As for the service, it was very poor. Trip.com advertised free ice cream and a 15% discount, but neither was available when I arrived. The front desk said there was no ice cream because the weather was cold. The counter staff said I could have biscuits instead and that while the 15% discount wasn't available, a 5% discount was. However, when checking out, I was told it was full price, with the explanation that the discount was only for August. I then asked why it was still advertised as a free gift if it wasn't available, which was speechless. This issue delayed my trip by half an hour. Eventually, the lobby manager came and gave me a box of biscuits, and that was the end of it. I just want to say that if an activity isn't available, it shouldn't be advertised. No one knows the process, the explanations are inconsistent, and the management is chaotic.From£50
5885 Reviews
International Trade CBD/Chaoyang Joy City Beijing|4.64km from city centre
Before booking, I read the negative reviews, which were mostly complaints about the service. After staying, I felt like this hotel was one giant obedience test.
Upon entering the room, I noticed a strong smell from the air conditioning ducts. I picked up the phone and dialed 'one touch.' The operator transferred me to the front desk, who said they would get back to me shortly. 'Shortly' meant I had to call again to get any kind of answer.
After changing rooms, the next day my room card stopped working. That's when I understood why there was a phone in the hallway. After calling, they said an auntie would come to help open the door. Ten minutes later, the auntie finally arrived. After opening the door, she said a concierge would bring a new room card later. Well, it never arrived within two hours. Eventually, when I went to pick up my takeout, I had to go to the front desk myself to get a new one.
The tissues in the room ran out. The auntie replaced them with new ones, but just left the new pack on top of the tissue box instead of putting them inside. I don't understand that.
There was a short black hair in the bathtub...
The mini-bar was completely empty on the first night, possibly due to the room change.
At breakfast, I opened a Chinese steamed dim sum, and there was a black hair inside... Breakfast ended at 10:30 AM, and many guests came at 10:35 AM to get coffee, but it was all gone...From£84
Excellent6505 Reviews
International Trade CBD/Chaoyang Joy City Beijing|2.63km from city centre
The hotel boasts a great location, right by the East 2nd Ring Road, and just a six to seven-minute walk from Jianguomen subway station. While there aren't a ton of dining options around, within a three-minute walk across the street, you'll find a decent hot pot place, a Zigongyuan restaurant, a McDonald's, and a Starbucks. Basically, all the essentials are covered. The service is excellent. The rooms aren't brand new, but they are well-maintained. There's a small but charming garden filled with various fruits and vegetables that were bearing heavily during my stay. I also noticed many peonies and cherry blossom trees, so it must be beautiful in spring.From£74
Outstanding7657 Reviews
China International Exhibition Center Area Beijing|7.13km from city centre
When we arrived at this hotel, I hadn't even realized it was the one I booked until we pulled in front of the lobby. It was so nice I was amazed that it was ours for what we paid. Incredibly stunning interior and exterior. The rooms and service live up to the standard as well. Absolutely perfect stay in the northeast corner of Beijing and I do believe we will come back to stay here next time. The attendants at the front desk were incredibly helpful, especially the one guy who helped me order on dianping and put together a porridge the Beijing way. The gym was the best I've ever seen in a hotel. Stacked with equipment for strength training with a separate room for martial arts training. It was like having a commercial gym as part of your hotel stay for free. Genuinely one of my most pleasant stays in a long time!From£65
Business travel
Good10596 Reviews
Tian'anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|0.86km from city centre
The front desk lady was very attentive. My second stay was still great. The location is excellent, right by the subway station. You can take bus 101 directly to the Temple of Heaven, and it's also within walking distance to Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, not too far. The only downside is that the bathtub 🛁 is too small, and the water temperature fluctuates between cold and hot, and the water pressure is quite low. I even got cold water halfway through my shower, so I didn't dare to wash my hair. For hot pot nearby, I recommend Yayun Li Ji; it's good value for money and tastes decent.From£59
Very Good3547 Reviews
Tian'anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.62km from city centre
The housekeeping lady on 8th floor was kind and always made sure to top up water and throw rubbish as I didn’t need my room cleaned everyday. The location was excellent and short walk and there’s a nice halal Lanzhou Beef noddle shop across the road and a fruit seller either outside the hotel or across the road in front of 7-11. A good spot to get some fruits after dinner.From£63
Outstanding11268 Reviews
Tian'anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.25km from city centre
Visiting Beijing during the National Day holiday, I decisively chose the Orange Crystal Hotel Tiananmen Wangfujing branch, and my stay exceeded expectations! The hotel's location is truly exceptional; the subway entrance is right across the street, making transportation incredibly convenient. It's very close to the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square, so you don't have to spend a long time stuck in traffic or taking taxis. This saved a lot of hassle during the holiday travel, allowing more time to explore attractions instead of commuting. The hotel's overall environment is simple yet elegant, and the rooms are spotlessly clean with soft and comfortable bedding, ensuring a peaceful rest after a day of sightseeing. The front desk service was warm and polite, and check-in was efficient and smooth. The Wangfujing commercial district is nearby, making dining and buying souvenirs very convenient. For friends visiting Beijing during the National Day holiday who prioritize convenient transportation, I highly recommend this place!From£74
Good6418 Reviews
Qianmen, The Temple Of Heaven and Chongwenmen Beijing|1.02km from city centre
For the most part, the stay was great! We appreciated the air purifier and humidifier in the room. Some of the amenities were a bit dated and the paint on the walls was cracked and chipping. The subway station outside the hotel was very convenient! The view of the sunset each night was quite nice too.From£61
1781 Reviews
Tian'anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.47km from city centre
🌟 Heartfelt hospitality in the heart of Beijing! Special thanks to Mike Wong and Hanson Wang for an unforgettable stay!Our stay at Peace Hotel Beijing (Forbidden City) left us with the warmest and most unforgettable impressions. The hotel is incredibly well-located right in the center of Beijing, within walking distance of the main attractions, making our sightseeing trips exceptionally convenient and easy.A special highlight was the lounge on the 19th floor where the club dinners are held. Dining with a glass of wine while enjoying the breathtaking, majestic view of the Forbidden City and Jingshan Park is an unparalleled pleasure! The atmosphere there is truly magical.However, the most valuable and outstanding feature of this hotel is how they treat their guests. We experienced not just a high standard of service, but genuine love, warmth, and true, deep hospitality that is so rare to find these days.We arrived at the hotel very early — at 8:00 AM, exhausted from our journey, and were mentally prepared to wait hours for check-in. To our amazement, we were not only greeted with a smile, but were given a room immediately, saving us from tedious waiting!I would like to express my deepest and most sincere gratitude to Mike Wong and Hanson Wang. They took incredible care of our family. Mike personally showed us two excellent rooms to choose from, helping us patiently and politely. The room we fell in love with on the 17th floor was instantly handed over to us.It is because of such dedicated, caring, and professional employees like Mike Wong and Hanson Wang that the brand builds its flawless positive image, making guests want to return over and over again. I highly recommend that the hotel management recognizes both Mike's and Hanson's outstanding dedication and awards them a well-deserved bonus or promotion. They are a true asset to your team!Thank you so much for an impeccable welcome. We will definitely be back and recommend this amazing hotel with all our hearts!From£78
Outstanding6929 Reviews
Tian'anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.28km from city centre
I honestly don’t understand how anyone could leave a bad review for this hotel. The staff took such great care of me throughout my stay. The location is excellent, very close to the metro and many of Beijing’s main tourist attractions.
What impressed me most was their attention to detail. On my first day, they even wiped down and cleaned my suitcase for me. The food was also really good, and when I was leaving, they even gave me a small gift, which was such a thoughtful gesture.
I had a wonderful experience here, and if I come back to Beijing, I would definitely choose to stay here again.From£79
Family friendly
Excellent5894 Reviews
East Second Ring Workers' Stadium Area Beijing|2.95km from city centre
Great location and excellent value for the comfort and function. Good Restraunts on site w a bar, Japanese and Hunan/canton all on offer- and there are many food places within a block. Very walkable. It was 15-20 min taxi to all the big attractions like temple of heaven, shopping etc. front desk English speakers made things go smoothly. The biggest surprise was in-room washer dryer- I left with all clean clothes-cycle took 3hrs but start, sightsee and clean clothes!!From£55
Very Good2560 Reviews
International Trade CBD/Chaoyang Joy City Beijing|4.46km from city centre
The gym service was terrible. The last picture shows the very bad gym staff member who was playing on his phone in the changing room, a place where people are naked and where there are signs prohibiting phone use. When I tried to get his attention, he ignored me. This person also ignored guests at the front desk when checking in and out, not even greeting them. When I returned my wristband, he just kept his head down doing his own thing. It was a lady next to him who, seeing his lack of response, rather awkwardly took the wristband from me. Regular training should resolve this issue. Otherwise, it's a hotel with great value for money. The front desk staff was fantastic, patiently explaining various issues and even upgraded my room. I think the lady's name was Zhang Dandan? I've forgotten. The executive lounge offered a wide variety of food, and the quality was excellent.From£115
Excellent7851 Reviews
Beijing West Railway Station Area Beijing|7.17km from city centre
The hotel is located directly opposite Beijing West Railway Station South Square, with metro and bus access nearby, making its location excellent. The staff were warm and attentive, even upgrading my room. The room facilities were complete, quiet, comfortable, and offered a great view. The breakfast was rich and delicious. Overall, I'm very satisfied and it's definitely worth staying here!From£44
Outstanding2968 Reviews
East Second Ring Workers' Stadium Area Beijing|5.33km from city centre
A surprisingly wonderful trip! I arrived at the hotel late at night, feeling exhausted. The gentleman at the front desk, wearing glasses, was incredibly professional and efficient. He quickly checked me in and even upgraded my room. He thoughtfully provided extra bottled water, which really shows how well-trained the hotel staff are.
The room was spacious and bright, making for a very comfortable stay. The hotel's location is fantastic! During my stay, I visited Sanlitun, Liangma River, and Solana, not only enjoying delicious food but also experiencing the unique atmosphere of the embassy district.
I'll definitely stay here again if I have the chance!From£62
Very Good3301 Reviews
Changping Town/Shisanling Resort Beijing|40.96km from city centre
Facilities: Average
Cleanliness: Everything I saw was quite clean
Environment: As it's a resort hotel, the environment is good for a vacation
Service: Beyond words, super excellent.
✨ The ultimate staycation in the Beijing suburbs | Le Meridien Changping is so therapeutic.
Escape the hustle and bustle by driving forty minutes from the city♨️
Le Meridien Changping is truly a great place for a weekend getaway.
The room is spacious and airy, and the bathtub by the window creates an amazing ambiance.
The huge Tanglegong hot spring has over twenty indoor and outdoor pools.
After a soak, all the fatigue completely dissipates.
The heated swimming pool and gym are fully equipped.
The breakfast selection is rich and delicious, and the service is attentive and thoughtful.
You don't need to travel far; you can still have a leisurely vacation feeling right here in Beijing.
It's the top choice for a relaxing weekend getaway 💭
#BeijingLeDuogangMarriott #BeijingSuburbanHotSpringResort #BeijingWeekendGetawayFrom£57
Outstanding12329 Reviews
Universal Beijing Resort and Sorrounding Beijing|22.5km from city centre
This is my second time staying here. I chose the Reber Hotel again for my trip to Beihuan this year. The location is incredibly convenient; after a long day of walking, being able to get back to the hotel for a rest in just a few minutes by taxi is pure bliss. The stay itself was fantastic – the room facilities were great, and the front desk and restaurant staff were all friendly and kind. The hotel also offers a free shuttle to the amusement park, which is a thoughtful touch. Another satisfying and happy trip!From£38
Hot spring
Very Good1270 Reviews
Badaling Great Wall/Badaling Wildlife Park Beijing|56.95km from city centre
The room is nestled halfway up the mountain, and from the floor-to-ceiling windows, you can see the blue sky, green trees, and lush mountains right from your bed. At night, while taking a stroll, the stars overhead were incredibly bright. During the National Day holiday, the hotel organized many activities, including complimentary badminton and billiards, as well as tie-dyeing and mountain hikes. Alvin at the front desk was very attentive and provided excellent service throughout, being particularly thoughtful and meticulous. This peaceful atmosphere was incredibly relaxing, so we didn't hesitate to extend our stay for another day, and the kids absolutely loved it.From£101
Excellent5066 Reviews
Miyun reservoir Beijing|70.35km from city centre
Pros:
1. The hotel is nestled halfway up the mountain, offering fresh air and truly beautiful surroundings. It's a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle, and the hotel's decor and maintenance are quite good. Our butler, Bella, was incredibly meticulous and thoughtful, taking care of every little detail. She met all our needs, making our stay exceptionally comfortable.
2. There's a wide array of facilities and activities, including a mountainside hot spring, indoor pool, Hatha yoga, singing bowl therapy, a gym, and a kids' club. It's perfect for families, and the kids' club is large and newly renovated – it just reopened in May. It's definitely more fun than the kids' clubs at other hotels I've visited. Plus, children aged 4 and up can be supervised for free, which made my little one super happy!
3. The room key card came with a park map, showing hiking trails. There's an easy 5-kilometer mountain boardwalk, perfect for families, where you can visit the Eight Planets viewing platforms.
4. The breakfast was impressive! They had steaks, lamb chops, and a rich variety of both Chinese and Western dishes. However, the cured meats were generally a bit too salty.
Cons:
1. For a 5-star hotel, there was no safe in the room.
2. While there's an abundance of kids' activities, most of them come with a fee.
3. Since the kids' club was newly renovated, the smell was quite strong, making my eyes and throat uncomfortable.
Overall, we were still very satisfied. I imagine it would be even more atmospheric to visit in winter for the hot springs, though I expect it would be extremely crowded.From£153
1272 Reviews
Daxing Airpot Beijing|32.32km from city centre
The rooms are clean and tidy, and come with a balcony. When checking in, you need to register your vehicle to park in the underground parking lot 🅿️, otherwise, you might be charged a parking fee. We had three king-size rooms, and 1119 had the best view, overlooking the lake from the balcony, with a beautiful sunrise in the morning. The room directly opposite could see the golf course behind, which was great for sunset views. The bathroom and bathtub are in separate spaces opposite each other, designed with two sinks for simultaneous use. The front desk is on the second floor, and the connecting corridor to the hot spring ♨️ is also on the same floor, though it's a bit of a walk. The buffet restaurant is on the first floor. Complimentary fruit was provided in the room.From£53
Very Good2165 Reviews
Alpine Skiing Centre/Horticultural Exposition Park Beijing|70.55km from city centre
We stayed at the Hyatt Regency World Garden with our child during the Mid-Autumn Festival, and I expected it to be chaotic with so many people, but the experience far exceeded my expectations! The front desk handled check-in efficiently, and even during peak hours, the staff calmly directed guests, maintaining order amidst the crowd – making us feel at ease the moment we walked in. The swimming pool wasn't even crowded during the holiday, and they have a shallow pool for toddlers, which was great. It's also very close to Qibabu Paradise, just a short walk away. The overall service was warm and considerate, lively yet orderly, making it very family-friendly for those with young children. We'll definitely choose this place again for our next holiday and highly recommend it to all families traveling with kids!From£57
Outstanding253 Reviews
Beijing Wtown/The Simatai Great Wall Beijing|111.5km from city centre
Our experience was exceptional. We reserved a Deluxe Room - With View (Balcony) three months in advance. This reservation included a package comprising breakfast for two, a Simatai Great Wall Day Tour Ticket (inclusive of a round-trip cableway ride), a Beijing Wtown Ticket for two, and a Hot Spring Experience Voucher for two. The package proved to be both valuable and perfectly suited to our needs. The reception staff demonstrated remarkable helpfulness, particularly the individual who assisted us with check-in and resolved an issue. His kindness was greatly appreciated, and we remain grateful for his assistance on that day. If I had the opportunity to return, I would certainly choose Wangjing Tower Boutique hotel again. 🫶🏻✨️🍁From£151
Outstanding431 Reviews
Beijing Wtown/The Simatai Great Wall Beijing|111.39km from city centre
Pros:
1. The hotel is conveniently located near the entrance to Simatai Great Wall. It's easy to access the Wall for hiking, and you can also enjoy views of it from the second floor of the room. The Wall is visible in the distance from the window, making it a secluded retreat away from the hustle and bustle.
2. The hotel offers excellent service. Housekeeping is prompt, and the staff are attentive and welcoming.
3. The duplex suite A is very spacious, perfect for families with elderly members and children. Kids, especially, will love rolling and crawling on the tatami mat.
4. Slippers and bath towels are replaced daily, and complimentary fruit is provided every day.
5. After checking out, I left my headphones in the room. The hotel proactively contacted me and arranged for them to be couriered to me, which I truly appreciate.
Cons:
1. The room is very inconvenient for elderly guests with mobility issues. The main bed is on the second floor, making it difficult for them to go up and down. The first floor has a tatami mat, which makes it hard for elderly guests to get up and lie down. If they need to get up at night, they would definitely need assistance.
2. While the room is large, whether the Japanese wabi-sabi style truly suits Chinese guests, especially for a hotel charging 5,000 yuan per night, is a question that needs consideration. The wabi-sabi aesthetic often translates to very sparse furnishings: no comfortable sofas, no bedside tables, no bedside lamps, and certainly no central control panel for all lights and appliances. The tatami mat essentially means sleeping on the floor with a low table, making it very inconvenient and challenging to get up, sit down, or place and retrieve items, which clashes with Chinese living habits.
3. The private hot spring bath in the room only has one switch for hot water, making it impossible to adjust the temperature. Its size is also awkward; it's fine for one person, but feels cramped for two. For a room type designed for six people, such a small bath is quite inconvenient. Furthermore, the inner wall of the bath is made of solid wood, raising concerns about hygiene.
4. The smart toilet was broken and remained unrepaired even after reporting it.
5. The two bedrooms on the second floor, designed to accommodate at least four people, share a single small bathroom, which is a very impractical design.
Additionally, the entire Gubei Water Town is not suitable for elderly visitors with mobility issues, especially those in wheelchairs. The flagstone paths are very uneven, and there are many steps, which would make a wheelchair ride extremely bumpy and uncomfortable.From£198
Breakfast
Good2630 Reviews
Wangjing Area Beijing|10.16km from city centre
1. The location is right by the 4th Ring Road, not far from Wangjing.
2. It has quasi-5-star amenities—everything you'd expect, including a bathtub, is provided.
3. Parking is fairly convenient with spaces right out front; it costs 80 RMB for a full 24 hours.
4. Food deliveries are brought directly to your room door by staff. I'd suggest using delivery robots instead—it's faster, more convenient, and saves on labor.
5. The surrounding area has supermarkets, restaurants, and pharmacies, so it covers all the basics.From£97
Outstanding5103 Reviews
International Trade CBD/Chaoyang Joy City Beijing|2.93km from city centre
I still remember how bustling the Beijing Scitech Plaza was ten years ago. Years later, when I returned, everything had changed. The once vibrant Scitech Plaza was no longer as grand, but the service at the Scitech Hotel was still as comforting and satisfying as ever. It felt very warm. From the young man greeting guests at the elevator to the cleaning staff, everyone made me feel a warmth that eased my tired journey. I was so busy catching an international flight in Beijing that I completely forgot it was Mid-Autumn Festival today. The young man by the elevator gave me a mooncake – a sudden and pleasant surprise that made me incredibly happy. Even a 4 AM international flight didn't seem so tiring at that moment. I hope you continue to improve and thrive. - Guest from Room 603From£35
Outstanding1963 Reviews
The Grand Canal CBD Beijing|21.34km from city centre
I booked this hotel for my father's medical appointment. It was excellent, and the front desk staff were very warm and welcoming. The room was spacious, clean, and bright, and the air conditioning worked perfectly. I was pleasantly surprised by the thoughtful service, especially the fresh-ground coffee – a perfect pick-me-up when I had an early start. The breakfast was decent too. Most importantly, it's incredibly convenient for Luhe Hospital, just across the road. I'll definitely stay here again for his follow-up appointments.From£22
72 Reviews
East Second Ring Workers' Stadium Area Beijing|4.23km from city centre
Booked the smallest room for 50€.
Location was fine and the AC worked.
Toilet flushed well, which is rare.
I think the price was high because of the national holiday but still doesn’t explain why the room was full of dust.
Also the room smelled like cigarette but turning the AC on it goes away.
If the price was below 40€ it would be worth it.From£20
1 Reviews
Beijing Wtown/The Simatai Great Wall Beijing|109.66km from city centre
Very satisfied, the kids had a great time
Hygiene: Hygienic conditions are also very good
Environment: Full score for the environment
Service: Nothing except the phone at the front desk couldn't get through, and I also helped to make coffeePerfect6624 Reviews
Wangjing Area Beijing|10.59km from city centre
The room was clean and tidy, and I even got an upgrade! The staff were very friendly and always addressed any issues promptly. Since I stayed in a relatively high-end room type (which was an upgrade due to special circumstances, and I'm grateful for that), the overall experience was excellent. However, I heard that most rooms have a very dark color scheme, which I personally wouldn't be able to accept. The overall color palette is a bit dim. All in all, it was a great stay! 👍From£46
Essential Beijing Travel Tips: Practical Advice Before You Go
These essential pre-trip and onsite tips cover visas, digital access, currency, etiquette, and safety to help Canadian travellers avoid common pitfalls.
Digital Essentials: WeChat Pay, and Alipay
Major Western apps (Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook) are unavailable in China. Prepare alternative mapping tools in advance and set up WeChat Pay or Alipay with your foreign bank card. Cashless payment is universal for transit, food, and shopping, making these apps essential for smooth travel.
Visa, Entry Requirements, and Currency Tips for Canadians
- Visa & Entry Policy: Canadian passport holders enjoy 30-day visa-free entry for tourism, business trips, family visits, and transit, valid from February 17 to December 31, 2026. Always double-check the latest policy updates before departure, as entry regulations are subject to adjustment.
- Currency & Cash Tips: The official currency is Chinese Yuan (RMB/CNY). International bank cards are accepted at ATMs of major branches such as Bank of China. Though mobile cashless payment dominates the city, keep a small amount of physical cash for street vendors and small local shops that do not support digital payments.
Cultural Etiquette and Things to Avoid in Beijing
- Historic & Temple Manners: Dress modestly when visiting temples and heritage sites, refrain from touching ancient artefacts, and keep your voice low to preserve a respectful atmosphere.
- Public Order: Never cut queues at tourist attractions, metro stations, or public facilities. Queue-jumping is widely considered impolite in local culture.
- Dining Etiquette: Avoid sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, as this gesture resembles traditional funeral customs and is considered unlucky.
- General Courtesy: Beijing locals are incredibly welcoming to foreign travellers. Simple politeness and consideration will make your interactions smoother and more pleasant throughout your trip.
Suggested Beijing Itineraries: How to Plan Your Trip
Below are two ready-made itineraries: a streamlined 3-day plan for quick trips, and a 7-day schedule to explore Beijing’s hidden gems in depth.
3 Days in Beijing: A First-Timer's Itinerary
Day 1: Core Historic Landmarks & Hutong Evening
Start early at Tiananmen Square, then explore the Forbidden City all morning and afternoon. Catch sunset views at Jingshan Park, then wander nearby hutongs for street food and local evening scenery.
Day 2: Mutianyu Great Wall Day Trip
Spend the full day exploring Mutianyu Great Wall. Head out early to avoid crowds, hike and sightsee through the afternoon, then return downtown for a relaxed evening dinner.
Day 3: Imperial Parks & Classic Dinner
Visit the Temple of Heaven in the morning to watch local daily activities, then explore the Summer Palace in the afternoon. Finish your trip with a classic Peking Duck dinner, optionally paired with a teahouse show or acrobatics performance.
Is 7 Days in Beijing Too Long? How to Fill a Week
Seven days in Beijing is absolutely worthwhile. A full week lets you skip rushed sightseeing and explore underrated highlights. Days 4–7 can cover the 798 Art District, Panjiayuan Antique Market, Beihai Park, and Yonghe Lama Temple.
Add visits to the Bell and Drum Towers, Sanlitun rooftop bars, and a day trip to the Ming Tombs. A week-long stay delivers a deep, authentic understanding of Beijing beyond typical tourist checklists.
Final Thoughts
Beijing uniquely blends ancient history and modern vitality. With friendly locals, convenient transit, distinct seasonal charm, and incredible food and sights, it is one of Asia’s most rewarding travel destinations and deserves a spot on every Canadian traveller’s bucket list.
Beijing Travel Tips FAQs
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