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Beijing

Hutong lanes, teahouse afternoons & imperial landmarks

Browse Beijing

Beijing is one of the most rewarding places to explore, and this local guide brings together the best things to do, where to eat and where to stay in one place. Highlights include Wudaoying Hutong, Pearl Market (Hongqiao) and Nanluogu Alley. Food lovers should not miss Daoxiangcun Pastries and Siji Minfu. Below you will find 13 hand-picked local recommendations across sights, restaurants, hotels and tours, which you can filter by category and budget to plan the perfect trip, whether you have a weekend or a week.

Beijing at a glance

  • Ideal stay: 2 to 3 days
  • Best time to visit: spring and autumn
  • Highlights: Wudaoying Hutong and Pearl Market (Hongqiao)
  • Where to stay: Mutianyu and Chaoyang
  • Local picks: 13 hand-chosen recommendations
  • Getting around: walkable, plus easy public transport

Local tips for Beijing

Stories and neighbourhood know-how from our local guides.

Where to stay in Beijing

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Dongcheng

Da Dong

The celebrated modern take on lean, crackling Peking duck.
★ 4.3
$$$
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Dongcheng

Daoxiangcun Pastries

A Beijing institution for over a century, beloved for traditional pastries and desserts. Locals grab them for breakfast alongside porridge. Point at the counter to pick one of each and find your favourite – try the tao su cookie or the walnut he tao pai.
★ 4.8
$
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Qianmen

Naga Tree Coffee

Why it matters: founded in 2024 by Ren Jiayi, an entrepreneur with disabilities, Naga Tree is China’s first fully accessible cafe — it employs staff with disabilities and doubles as a community hub where blind visitors borrow braille books and wheelchair users socialize in a genuinely barrier-free space. It hides in Sanjing Hutong near Qianmen, an easy add-on to a Dashilar wander. Order a hand brew and browse the coffee merchandise that helps keep the project running. Notice the details while you sip: wind chimes at the door to guide visually impaired guests, adjustable tables, and restrooms with automatic doors.
★ 4.2
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Dongcheng

Siji Minfu

A local favourite for crisp Peking duck near the Forbidden City.
★ 4.4
$$
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Before you go

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Book your trip to Beijing

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Beijing travel FAQ

How many days do you need in Beijing?

Two to three days is enough to enjoy the highlights of Beijing at a relaxed pace.

Where is the best area to stay in Beijing?

Stay central and walkable to the main sights for a first visit.

What are the best things to do in Beijing?

Browse the local picks above, from top sights and museums to where to eat and stay. Or read our best things to do in Beijing guide.

What is the best time to visit Beijing?

Spring and autumn usually bring the most comfortable weather and thinner crowds, though Beijing is worth visiting year-round.

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