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Red walls and golden roofs of the Forbidden City in Beijing

China

Meet travelers in Beijing

Imperial palaces, hutong alleys and the Great Wall at sunrise

Beijing is China's history in one city: the Forbidden City, temples, old hutong lanes and the Great Wall within reach. Day trips and early starts are better with company, and travelers often team up for the Wall or for a night of hotpot.

Best time to visit
April to May and September to October
Clear skies and mild temperatures; summers are hot and winters freezing and dry.
Country
China
Asia

Where travelers stay in Beijing

  • Do

    Dongcheng

    The Forbidden City, Jingshan Park and the Lama Temple.

  • Na

    Nanluoguxiang & Gulou

    Hutong lanes, courtyard cafés and bars around the Drum Tower.

  • Sa

    Sanlitun

    Shopping, international restaurants and the city's nightlife.

  • Ho

    Houhai

    Lakeside walks and bars, ice skating in winter.

Things to do together

  • Hike the Mutianyu or Jinshanling section of the Great Wall.
  • Climb Jingshan Park for the view over the Forbidden City.
  • Rent bikes and explore the hutongs.
  • Share a Peking duck or a hotpot dinner.

Staying safe in Beijing

  • Many Western apps and sites are blocked: set up messaging and maps before you arrive.
  • Pay with Alipay or WeChat Pay (both accept foreign cards) and carry your passport, which is needed for tickets.
  • Book the Forbidden City and main sights online in advance; they sell out.

More advice in our safety guide.

How to find a travel buddy for Beijing

  1. 1. Add your trip. Choose Beijing from the city suggestions and set your dates.
  2. 2. See who overlaps. Your trip shows travelers heading to Beijing on overlapping dates.
  3. 3. Connect. Like profiles you’re interested in; a mutual like opens a conversation.

Beijing FAQ

How do I meet other travelers in Beijing?

Add your Beijing trip with dates in Travel Datings to find travelers on the same dates and plan the Great Wall or hutong walks together.

Which part of the Great Wall is best?

Mutianyu is restored and less crowded than Badaling; Jinshanling is wilder and great for hiking.

Do I need a visa for China?

Many nationalities now get visa-free or transit-free stays; check the current rules for your passport before booking.

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