6. Beijing
Please note all prices and currency conversions are approximate at time of writing.
China’s vast capital has something for everyone. A fusion of ancient heritage and modern dynamism, it has a thriving blues music scene.
Getting around
Beijing’s busy streets can be daunting, but its public transport system is efficient. On the subway, most signs and announcements are in Chinese and English. Taxies are affordable, but they can be hard to hail in rush-hour traffic (have a hotel name and destination written in Chinese to show the driver).
Many people use DiDi or HelloRide as a convenient bike-sharing alternative. Bus routes are extensive. Get a Beijing Transportation Smart Card for cashless payments.
Travel from Beijing Capital International Airport to the city centre by train for ¥25, by taxi for ¥150 or by bus for ¥30.
Travel from Daxing International Airport to the city centre by train for ¥35, by taxi for ¥250 or by bus for ¥50.
Local tastes
There are gastronomic delights for foodies in every neighbourhood.
Moka Bros, Chaoyang District: Ideal for breakfast meetings, this trendy cafe offers healthy international fare in a bright space. The owners have a few eateries, but this venue is their most popular.
Liqun Roast Duck Restaurant: This is where the locals go for great food at a reasonable price. The decor is simple, but it is known for its Peking duck and braised duck gizzard. Book in advance.
King's Joy: A vegetarian restaurant with a Michelin Star — that is the calling card for this Dongcheng District eatery set within an old temple.
Where to stay
Beijing’s luxury hotel scene is growing at speed, but there are still bargains to be found.
China World Summit Wing: All rooms are elegant with floor-to-ceiling windows and marble bathrooms. There is access to quality business facilities and high-end dining.
Kelly's Courtyard Hotel: For a budget hotel close to the financial district, this charming courtyard hotel is perfect. It is in Xidan District, known as the Chinese Wall Street.
Mandarin Oriental Wangfujing: A high-end hotel offering tailored spaces for meetings and events. The spa and wellness centres are regarded as among Beijing’s best.
Where to play
Given China’s rich culture and history, its status as a haven for travellers is no surprise.
The Forbidden City: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this palace complex is famous for its imperial history and grand architecture. Get there early for one of the 80,000 tickets issued per day.
The Great Wall, Mutianyu: A well-preserved and less-crowded section of the Great Wall, this site is 90 minutes from the city — an ideal half-day trip. Built in 1368AD, a distinctive feature of this site is its three ancient watchtowers.
798 Art District: This 1950s factory is now a modern art zone with Beijing’s best art galleries, cafes and design shops — perfect for a creative break or a full day’s visit. The mix of contemporary art and communist history tells a compelling story.
Insider tip
Schedule business meetings to avoid rush hour (roughly 7.30–9.30am and 5.00–7.00pm) as trains and roads get crowded.
