For travel enthusiasts, Beijing—the historical and cultural heart of China—is a must-visit destination. The city is famous not only for its ancient landmarks from imperial dynasties but also for the captivating blend of traditional charm and modern vibrancy. From the world wonder of the Great Wall, the grandeur of the Forbidden City, to the nostalgic Hutong alleyways, Beijing offers a colorful and immersive travel experience.

If you're looking for practical tips on food, accommodation, and sightseeing in Beijing, this article will help you get fully prepared for your journey to this millennia-old capital.

1. Discovering Beijing – China’s “Thousand-Year Capital”

1.1 Where is Beijing?

 Beijing is the capital of China, located in the northern part of the North China Plain. Geographically, it lies to the north of Hebei Province and borders Tianjin to the southeast. The city is naturally shielded by mountains to the north, west, and northwest, forming a protective barrier, while vast plains stretch out to the east and southeast.

Thanks to its strategic location, Beijing has long been not only a political and cultural hub but also a world-renowned tourist destination with over 3,000 years of history. From ancient alleyways to futuristic landmarks, Beijing represents a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. With a highly developed network of airports, railways, and expressways, Beijing is an easily accessible destination for both domestic and international travelers.

Beijing is also a major transportation hub connecting different regions within China and beyond.

1.2 What makes Beijing so appealing to travelers?

Beijing has long captivated visitors with its seamless fusion of history, culture, and modern development. The city is home to exceptional cultural heritage and grand historical sites such as the Forbidden City and the Great Wall of China, offering a window into ancient China’s golden age.

Beyond history, Beijing is renowned for its diverse cuisine—especially the world-famous Peking Duck and an exciting array of street food. Meanwhile, its modern flair shines through architectural marvels like the Bird’s Nest Stadium and bustling commercial centers, reflecting the youthful and dynamic spirit of a city on the rise.

Beijing is a compelling destination that fulfills travelers' interests in history, culture, and contemporary experiences.

2. How to Get to Beijing

From Vietnam, travelers can reach Beijing conveniently by air. Flights depart from either Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, with an average flight time of 4 to 5 hours. Round-trip ticket prices typically range from 6 to 10 million VND, depending on the time of booking.

If you choose to fly with Vietjet, you can enjoy promotional fares starting from just 390,000 VND here

Upon arriving in Beijing, you’ll have a wide range of transportation options for getting around the city. Beijing boasts a modern and diverse public transport system, making it easy for visitors to explore. The subway is the fastest and most convenient option, with an extensive network and low fares. Public buses are a more economical choice. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are ideal for short trips, while bicycles and e-bikes offer a more intimate and enjoyable way to experience the city. For destinations farther from the city center, commuter trains provide a comfortable and affordable alternative.

3. Recommended Attractions in Beijing

• Forbidden City: Once the political and ceremonial center of China for nearly 500 years, the Forbidden City is the largest palace complex in the world, with more than 980 majestic buildings. Every architectural detail reflects the grandeur and refinement of the Ming and Qing Dynasties, making it not only a historical relic but also a symbol of cultural continuity in China.

The Forbidden City is the world’s largest imperial palace, home to emperors of the Ming and Qing Dynasties.

• Great Wall of China: One of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Great Wall stretches majestically across winding mountain ranges. Walking along its steps offers a powerful sense of history and reveals the enduring resilience of the Chinese people.

The Great Wall delivers a unique historical experience and breathtaking natural scenery.

• Temple of Heaven: The Temple of Heaven, where Ming and Qing emperors prayed for good harvests, is a masterpiece of architecture deeply rooted in feng shui philosophy. Its centerpiece, the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, features a striking circular blue roof symbolizing the heavens. This sacred site offers a deep insight into traditional Chinese spiritual beliefs and rituals.

• Summer Palace: Once the imperial summer retreat, the Summer Palace impresses with its perfect harmony of royal architecture and natural beauty. With the expansive Kunming Lake, a vibrant Long Corridor, and lush gardens, the palace resembles a living landscape painting. It’s an ideal destination for relaxation and enjoying the peaceful, magnificent surroundings.

4. Beijing Travel Tips

4.1 Best Time to Visit Beijing

Beijing is a captivating destination with four distinct seasons, each offering its own beauty and experiences. However, to make the most of your trip, spring and autumn are considered the best times to explore this ancient capital.

Spring in Beijing lasts from March to May. The weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. It's also the blooming season for flowers like cherry blossoms and apricot blossoms, creating vibrant scenery across the city. Spring is a perfect time to visit historical landmarks like the Forbidden City and the Great Wall, where you can enjoy fresh air and lush landscapes.

Autumn, from September to November, is often regarded as the most beautiful season in Beijing. The skies are clear, sunlight is gentle, and the trees turn brilliant shades of red and gold, painting a romantic and poetic picture. It's also the ideal time to enjoy seasonal treats like candied hawthorn skewers and roasted chestnuts, offering a unique cultural and culinary experience.

If you enjoy vibrant atmospheres, summer (June to August) may be a good time to visit. Though it can get hot—with temperatures frequently above 30°C—Beijing hosts various festivals and outdoor activities during this time.

Winter (December to February) brings a typical northern chill, with temperatures dropping below 0°C, and sometimes even to -10°C. However, if you love winter, this is a chance to witness a completely different Beijing, with snow-covered landmarks that resemble a picturesque painting.

No matter the season, each visit to Beijing offers its own charm and atmosphere.

4.2 Where to Stay in Beijing

Beijing offers a wide range of accommodation options for every budget:

• Luxury Hotels: Regent Beijing, China World Hotel, Waldorf Astoria Beijing, The Peninsula Beijing

• Mid-range Hotels: Novotel Beijing Xinqiao, Holiday Inn Express Beijing, Inner Mongolia Hotel

• Budget Hostels/Guesthouses: Peking Youth Hostel, 365 Inn Beijing, Beijing Downtown Travelotel, Chinese Box Courtyard Hostel

4.3 What to Eat in Beijing

• Peking Duck: This world-famous dish features crispy skin and tender, flavorful meat. The duck is roasted in a special oven and typically served with thin pancakes, cucumber, scallions, and a sweet bean sauce.

• Stinky Tofu (Chòu dòufu): A popular street food with a bold, unforgettable flavor. Though the smell may be strong, the taste is loved by many locals.

• Zhajiangmian (Fried Sauce Noodles): A traditional Beijing dish made with wheat noodles topped with a savory fermented soybean paste, often mixed with ground pork and fresh vegetables.

• Xiao Long Bao (Soup Dumplings): These delicious steamed dumplings have a delicate wrapper and are filled with juicy meat and savory broth. They’re especially popular during festivals and holidays.

Beijing’s “food paradise” keeps travelers coming back for more.

4.4 How Much Does a Trip to Beijing Cost?

Here’s an estimated self-guided travel budget for a 4–5 day trip to Beijing:

• Flight tickets: 6,000,000 – 12,000,000 VND

• Accommodation: 2,000,000 – 6,000,000 VND/person (depending on hotel category)

• Food & drinks: Around 500,000 – 1,000,000 VND/day

• Transportation: 100,000 – 150,000 VND/day

• Entrance fees: 1,000,000 – 2,000,000 VND (depending on the attractions you visit)

• Shopping & souvenirs: 200,000 – 1,000,000 VND/person

Total estimated cost: 10,000,000 – 15,000,000 VND/person – a reasonable budget for discovering such a vibrant and culturally rich city.

Beijing is truly a destination that offers everything—from culture and history to cuisine and modern charm. It’s bound to leave you with unforgettable memories.To make your journey seamless, book your flight to Beijing today with Vietjet! And don’t forget to check out the “0 VND ticket promotions” available daily from 12 PM to 2 PM, for both domestic and international routes here. 

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