6 Places You Have to See If It's Your First Time in Beijing

Is this your first time visiting Beijing? If so, you're about to immerse yourself in a city where ancient history and modern energy contrast in the most fascinating way. To make sure you don't miss the most iconic places you'll definitely want to see, we've prepared this list of Beijing's "must-sees." With this simple guide, you'll be sure to make the most of your experience.

1. The Forbidden City

As Beijing's most famous historical site, the Forbidden City, with its 600-year history, served as the royal palace for 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties. This vast wooden complex, along with its countless cultural relics, is a must-see. After all, who can say they've visited Beijing without setting foot in the Forbidden City?

• What you'll see: The city is divided into two distinct parts. The Outer Court was where the emperors conducted affairs of state, while the Inner Court was their family residence. You'll be able to walk through its majestic halls and courtyards, feeling the weight of history with every step.
• The details: Millions of cultural relics are on display within the complex, some in the original palaces for which they were created and others brought together in themed exhibitions for better preservation.
• Note: To enter, you must book a ticket online in advance.

2. The Great Wall

This long, high, and sturdy wall was a military defense project in ancient China, created to protect the center of the country from invasions by northern nomads. Its oldest sections date back to the 7th century BC, but the parts that remain today were mainly built during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644).

• Where to go in Beijing: The best-preserved and most popular sections are located around Beijing. Badaling is the essence of the Great Wall, but it tends to be very crowded. Mutianyu is beloved by foreign tourists for its beautiful natural scenery and a slightly more tranquil atmosphere. If hiking is your plan, the Jinshanling and Simatai sections are your best bet, offering a more authentic experience and spectacular views.

3. The Summer Palace

This palace served as a holiday resort for the imperial family during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). Situated around Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill, the park is built in the classic style of southern Chinese gardens and is the best-preserved royal garden in the country.

• What to do here: You'll experience the unique design of ancient Chinese architecture as you stroll along bridges, through pavilions, and along painted corridors. The highlight is Kunming Lake. Weather permitting, taking a boat ride on the lake is one of the most enjoyable activities you can do in Beijing, especially in spring.

4. Prince Gong's Mansion

As the largest princely mansion in China, this site comprises over 30 exquisitely designed and well-planned buildings. It was the private residence of Heshen, a powerful and corrupt minister of the Qing Dynasty. This mansion stands as a silent witness to the history of the Qing Dynasty, from its rise to its fall.

• Don't miss: Three things are essential here: the Western Style Gate, the Grand Theater (a private opera house) and the Stele of the "Fu" Character (symbol of good fortune), which Heshen brazenly stole from the imperial palace.

5. Tiananmen Square

Located in the very heart of Beijing, this remarkable square is a national symbol. It's a vast open space where you can visit several key monuments in a single day. There you'll find:

The National Museum of China: On the east side of Tiananmen Square is this museum, which was created in 2003 from the merger of the Museum of Chinese History and the Museum of the Chinese Revolution.

• What you'll find inside: The museum presents the development of modern China through a wealth of artifacts, photographs, books, and models. Its history collection illustrates China's long history and glorious culture from 1,700,000 years ago until 1921, when the last emperor abdicated. It's a perfect complement to everything you've seen in the Forbidden City.

6. Beijing Hutongs

"Hutongs" are the name given to the alleyways that connect the traditional square courtyard houses called "Siheyuan." More than 6,000 of these alleyways—long, short, wide, narrow, straight, or winding—weave the urban fabric of old Beijing.

• Why they're special: Each hutong tells a story, showcasing the city's historical development and cultural evolution. Strolling through them is like escaping the modern avenues and stepping into the everyday lives of Beijing's residents.
• Where to explore them: The most visited hutongs are located mainly south and north of the Forbidden City, including the Shichahai area (ideal for a rickshaw ride), the Drum and Bell Towers, and Nanluoguxiang, a street full of shops, cafes, and life. Here, you don't just see history, you experience it.

Final Tip for Your Visit

This list presents the must-see places that will give you a complete picture of Beijing: from imperial power and monumental defenses to everyday life and recent history. Plan ahead, as places like the Forbidden City and the Great Wall require a good part of the day. Wear comfortable shoes, because Beijing is best explored on foot, and public transportation is also convenient. Don't forget to enjoy the local cuisine; dishes like the famous Peking duck are a must on your trip. Have a great trip!