Beijing's Must-See Attractions: A Complete Guide

It wasn’t until I stood at the top of the Great Wall, breathless and in awe, that I realized the true vastness of Beijing’s history and culture. This city isn’t just ancient relics and landmarks; it’s a complex tapestry of modern life mixed with thousands of years of history. But, had I started my trip here? No. My journey began in one of the most unexpected places.

The heart of Beijing is filled with iconic sites like the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and the Temple of Heaven. These attractions are etched in every tourist’s mind. But I found myself captivated by less-known treasures first. 798 Art District, for example, felt like a refreshing jolt of modernity amidst the ancient surroundings of the city. This thriving hub of contemporary Chinese art contrasts sharply with the ancient monuments just a short distance away. If you think Beijing is just about its imperial past, think again—there's so much more than meets the eye.

From there, my adventure took an unexpected turn, but I’ll get back to that later. First, let’s talk about Tiananmen Square, the largest city square in the world. It’s not just a public space but a symbol of the new China, filled with deep political and historical significance. The sheer scale of it is overwhelming, especially when coupled with the imposing sight of the Monument to the People's Heroes and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong. Walking through the square feels like stepping into the pages of a history book, each corner telling a different story.

Yet, if you want to dive into Beijing’s real story, the Forbidden City is where it all begins. This vast palace complex was the imperial seat for 24 Ming and Qing dynasty emperors. The sprawling courtyards, halls, and hidden chambers echo with centuries of intrigue, power, and mystery. It’s impossible not to be drawn into the layers of history that have played out here, but it’s equally easy to be overwhelmed by the sheer scale of the site. A tip for future visitors: plan at least half a day here, if not more.

But let me take you back to where the story really gets personal—the hutongs. Ah, the hutongs. These narrow alleyways form the veins of the old city, where traditional courtyard homes still stand. It’s here where I first experienced the quieter, more intimate side of Beijing. Wandering through the hutongs, you’ll encounter everything from vibrant street markets to serene temples hidden between the alleys. I found myself in the Nanluoguxiang hutong, a lively area filled with boutique shops and street food, but it wasn’t the hustle and bustle that caught my attention. It was a small courtyard, tucked away behind a modest gate, where I was invited in for tea by a local family. Their stories of living in the same home for generations made Beijing feel less like a tourist destination and more like a living, breathing city.

Of course, no trip to Beijing would be complete without visiting the Great Wall of China. Yet, this wasn’t where my journey began, as many would expect. I visited the Mutianyu section of the wall after exploring the city, and by then, I already had a deeper appreciation for the capital’s layers of culture. The Great Wall is more than a structure; it's a testament to human ambition, perseverance, and ingenuity. Mutianyu, with its restored towers and breathtaking views, offers a glimpse into the sheer determination it took to create such a marvel. A pro tip: visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and get the best views.

One of the highlights for me, surprisingly, was the Summer Palace. Located a bit further out from the city center, this imperial garden is a serene escape from the urban hustle. The sprawling lake, bridges, and pagodas make it feel like a scene from a traditional Chinese painting. Walking along the banks of Kunming Lake at sunset, it’s easy to see why the emperors would retreat here to escape the pressures of court life.

Then, there’s the food. Beijing cuisine, with its bold flavors and centuries-old traditions, is an experience in itself. From the famed Peking duck to street snacks like jianbing (a savory crepe filled with egg, cilantro, and crispy wonton), the culinary scene is as rich and diverse as the city’s history. The food markets, especially in areas like Wangfujing, offer a glimpse into local life, where tourists and locals alike enjoy a variety of dishes that range from exotic to comforting.

But the true essence of Beijing isn’t just in its monuments or its food. It’s in the way the city effortlessly blends the old with the new. As I strolled through Qianmen Street, a pedestrian shopping area that dates back to the Ming dynasty but is now filled with modern shops and restaurants, it hit me. Beijing is a city constantly evolving, yet always rooted in its past.

From the imperial grandeur of the Forbidden City to the modern vibes of Sanlitun, where luxury brands and international restaurants cater to a global crowd, Beijing is a city that never stands still. It’s a city where you can explore ancient temples in the morning and enjoy a cocktail in a high-rise bar at night.

The trip ended where it should have begun, at the Great Wall, but not before I had experienced every facet of the city’s remarkable diversity. By the time I stood on the Wall, looking out over the mountains, I realized that Beijing isn’t just a destination—it’s a journey, one that reveals itself layer by layer, alley by alley, and dish by dish. Beijing is a city that rewards curiosity, and it’s a place where every visitor can write their own story.