Forbidden City

The Forbidden City (Palace Museum, 紫禁城) was the imperial palace for 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties (1420–1912). It was the political and ritual center of China for nearly 500 years. It is called "Forbidden" because commoners were barred from entry, and even imperial officials needed special permission.

Recommended sightseeing time: 0.5-1 day Address: No. 4, Jingshanqian Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing

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Forbidden City (The Palace Museum) Reviews

4.8/5
48825 reviews
5/5
Impressive. It was interesting.
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5/5
This isn't our first visit to the Forbidden City. This time, we decided to go there in costume. And, of course, it was an unforgettable experience. Everyone wanted to take pictures with the funny Europeans in traditional Chinese costumes :). The weather in July is super hot, the sun is bright, everything is beautiful, but there are a lot of people. Then we went to the Temple of Heaven. Google says it's average, but in reality, there were millions of people there.
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5/5
Everything was fine. You can easily get through with your Russian passport; they scan it, and the system clears those who paid for it. A couple of us tried to buy tickets, but they don't sell them on the day. We decided to go to the Fool's Market without a reservation, but despite the huge crowd, it didn't work out. We ended up standing around for about 40 minutes and then went for a walk. The price was okay; it would be cheaper to buy tickets on site, but only if you're planning a long stay in Beijing, otherwise you might find that reservations for your dates are already sold out. Overall, I recommend it; everything went well; it's a fantastic place for those interested in Eastern cultures.
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5/5
🏯❤️ The Forbidden City was, without a doubt, my favorite place in Beijing!If you’re visiting Beijing, this is a place you absolutely shouldn’t miss. The palace is incredibly grand, and it’s hard to believe how massive and beautiful it is until you see it in person. Every courtyard and building is full of history, making the whole experience unforgettable.I had watched Story of Yanxi Palace three times before coming, so visiting the real palace felt even more special. 😂 It honestly felt like I had stepped into the drama, and I kept recognizing places from the scenes. That made the experience so much more exciting!I highly recommend getting a guide as well—it was one of the best decisions because I was able to understand the fascinating stories and history behind the palace instead of just walking through it.If I ever return to Beijing, this is definitely the first place I’d visit again. ❤️
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5/5
The city's majestic scale and vast area make it impossible to explore in a day. There are no interiors of the emperor's and his family's houses, nor of those belonging to the court. It's unclear how they lived or what they used. Organizational issues were a bit disconcerting—the need to purchase entrance tickets before entering, and having to stand in the sun with a guide for about an hour. Getting inside the city took an hour due to the large number of people, and there were only two terminals for inspecting personal belongings, then for checking a pass with your passport. It's exhausting in the scorching sun. The guide Ilya was great; everything was organized perfectly.
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Forbidden City Tickets
Plan your visit to the Palace Museum, Beijing. Learn how to book Forbidden City tickets, opening hours, the best walking routes, and entry tips

What is the Forbidden City (The Palace Museum, Beijing)?

The Forbidden City (紫禁城, Zǐjìnchéng), now officially known as the Palace Museum, served as the Chinese imperial palace from the Ming dynasty to the end of the Qing dynasty (1420 to 1912). For nearly 500 years, it was the ceremonial and political center of Chinese government and the reclusive home of 24 emperors.

It is called "Forbidden" because no one could enter or leave the palace without the emperor's express permission. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site and houses the world's largest collection of preserved ancient wooden structures.

Category

Details

Total Area

72 hectares (178 acres)

Construction Period

1406 – 1420 (14 years)

Total Buildings

980 surviving buildings

Legendary Room Count

9,999.5 (Symbolizing heaven has 10,000)

Key Layout

Divided into the Outer Court (State Affairs) and Inner Court (Living Quarters)

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The Palace Museum
The Palace Museum
4.8/5
48825 Reviews
# Historic landmark# Exhibitions
Trip.com userImpressive. It was interesting.
€12
Details

Forbidden City (The Palace Museum) - Map & Layout

Forbidden City Map & Route

Source from china highlights

How to Buy Forbidden City Tickets & Reservation Tips

Forbidden City Recommended Route & Must-See Attractions

Advance reservation is mandatory. Tickets are no longer sold at the gate for most visitors and often sell out 7 days in advance.

  • Booking Window: Tickets open 7 days in advance at 8:00 PM (Beijing Time).
  • Where to Buy: * Official WeChat Mini-Program: Search for "故宫博物院" (Palace Museum). This is the most reliable method.
    • Official Website:The Palace Museum Booking Portal.
    • Travel Platforms: Sites like Trip.com offer tickets (often bundled with tours) if you find the official site difficult to navigate.
  • ID Requirement: You must bring your physical passport. Your passport number is your ticket.

Forbidden City Opening Hours

The museum is closed every Monday (except for national holidays).

Season

Dates

Hours

Last Entry

Peak Season

April 1 – Oct 31

8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

4:00 PM

Off-Season

Nov 1 – March 31

8:30 AM – 4:30 PM

3:30 PM

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How to Get to Forbidden City & Entering Guide

The Forbidden City is a one-way south-to-north route. You must enter from the South and exit from the North.

How to Get There

  • Subway: Take Line 1 to Tiananmen East or Tiananmen West.
  • Note: You must pass through security for Tiananmen Square first. Allow an extra 30–45 minutes for this security check before you even reach the palace gates.

Where to Enter

  • Entrance: Meridian Gate (Wumen). This is the massive U-shaped gate at the southern end.
  • Exit: Gate of Divine Prowess (Shenwumen) or East Prosperity Gate (Donghuamen).
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Forbidden City Recommended Route & Must-See Attractions

Forbidden City Recommended Route & Must-See Attractions

Must-See Attractions in the Central Axis

To see the best of the palace in 3–4 hours, follow the Central Axis:

  1. Hall of Supreme Harmony (Taihe Dian): The heart of the palace where grand ceremonies and coronations took place.
  2. Hall of Central Harmony & Preserving Harmony: Where emperors rested and held imperial banquets.
  3. Palace of Heavenly Purity: The Emperor’s primary residence in the Inner Court.
  4. Hall of Mental Cultivation: The "office" where later Qing emperors actually lived and worked.
  5. The Treasure Gallery (Extra Ticket Required): Located in the northeast; it houses the famous Nine Dragon Screen.
  6. Imperial Garden: A classical garden at the northern end, perfect for a break before exiting.
Forbidden City Recommended Route & Must-See Attractions

Hidden Gems You May Like

  • The Nine Dragon Screen: A 30-meter-long glazed tile wall (located in the Treasure Gallery, requires a separate 10 RMB ticket).
  • The Clock Gallery: A collection of 18th-century mechanical clocks from Europe and China (extra ticket required).
  • The Corner Towers: Viewed from the outside moat at sunset, these are the most photographed parts of the palace.
  • The Icehouse (Bingku): Ancient stone cellars once used to store ice for the summer, now converted into a unique restaurant and café.
Forbidden City Recommended Route & Must-See Attractions

Interesting Historical Insights

  • The "No Tree" Court: You will notice there are no trees in the three main courtyards of the Outer Court. This was done to maintain the Emperor's dignity (no shadows) and to prevent assassins from hiding.
  • Roof Creatures: Look at the corners of the roofs. The more small animal figures there are, the more important the building is. The Hall of Supreme Harmony is the only building in China allowed to have 10 of these creatures.
  • The Legend of the "Cold Palace": There was no specific "Cold Palace" (Leng Gong). It was simply a term for any secluded, run-down courtyard where a concubine was banished for falling out of the Emperor's favor.

Pro Tip: After exiting the North Gate, cross the street to Jingshan Park. Climb the hill for the iconic "postcard view" looking back over the golden roofs of the entire Forbidden City.

Best Time to Visit Forbidden City

  • Best Month: Late October to early November. The weather is crisp, the sky is often "Beijing Blue," and the autumn leaves provide a stunning backdrop.
  • Best Time of Day: 8:30 AM (First entry) to beat the large tour groups, or 2:00 PM for the "golden hour" light as the crowds begin to thin toward closing.
  • Avoid: Chinese National Holidays (Golden Week in October) and Labor Day (May), as daily visitor caps make tickets nearly impossible to get.
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Discounted Beijing Tour Packages

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[10% Off] Beijing Hotel Recommendations

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Beijing Hotels

5 star

Legendale Hotel Beijing

9.1/10Good6834 Reviews
Tian'anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.55km from city centre
Let me start with an overall impression: the decor is quite distinctive, but the facilities are definitely dated. If you have high standards for your living environment and aren't too concerned about value for money, you might want to reconsider. Most of the doormen are unprofessional; they don't proactively open car doors or help with luggage, they just stand there watching. A key highlight: SUV drivers and new drivers should seriously reconsider using the hotel's parking garage. Both the entrance and exit are 180-degree plus sharp turns, and the lanes are extremely narrow, making it very difficult to navigate. Furthermore, when my friend tried to leave the parking lot for the first time, the parking barrier hit his car. This happened because of the unreasonably sharp turn at the exit and the short time interval before the barrier came down again. The duty manager was quite helpful and actively tried to resolve the issue. However, when my friend attempted to leave the parking lot a second time, he was hit by the barrier again, even under the manager's watchful eye. This time, he even tried to drive out a bit faster. We've since reached a resolution with the hotel, but I still hope future guests will be extra cautious. Overall, it's indeed a beautiful building, but the interior maintenance is seriously lacking. Staying for a day for a photoshoot might be okay occasionally, but I won't be returning.
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Sofitel Beijing Central

9.3/10Very Good12762 Reviews
International Trade CBD/Chaoyang Joy City Beijing|2.52km from city centre
💯 We chose Sofitel during our Dragon Boat Festival trip to Beijing, and it was a perfect experience. The location is superb, making it incredibly convenient to get to all the major attractions. The room was spacious and bright, with a stunning city view from the floor-to-ceiling windows, and the bedding was comfortable in a quiet environment. The location is fantastic, with easy transportation, right in the core of Jianguomen within the Second Ring Road. It's just a few minutes' walk to the subway station, and a very short drive to Tiananmen, the Forbidden City, and Wangfujing. It makes sightseeing and getting around incredibly hassle-free, making it the top choice for a trip to Beijing. Beira warmly checked us in and even upgraded our room type. It was a very pleasant stay! 👍
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Air China Boyue Beijing Hotel

9.3/10Very Good3587 Reviews
Yansha Commercial Area Beijing|7.59km from city centre
1. **Unbeatable Location:** Situated at No. 36 Xiaoyun Road in Chaoyang District, right in the heart of the Third Embassy Area, just a 3-minute walk to the US Embassy. It's also close to Liangmaqiao/Sanyuanqiao subway stations (approx. 900 meters) and offers easy access to Sanlitun, Solana, and the airport expressway. 2. **Excellent Service Reputation:** The front desk staff are professional and responsive, handling requests like turndown service, deliveries, and room changes with great care. Following Air China's service standards, cleanliness rates 4.7/5 and service 4.7/5. 3. **Spacious and Comfortable Rooms:** Starting from 40 sqm, rooms are well-designed with comfortable bedding and excellent soundproofing. Bathrooms are large, feature separate wet and dry areas, include a bathtub, and have ample hot water. 4. **Comprehensive Facilities:** Enjoy a complimentary indoor swimming pool and gym, free parking, and a lobby lounge/coffee shop/tea room, making it ideal for both business and leisure travelers. 5. **Abundant Breakfast:** A rich buffet with both Chinese and Western options. Window seats offer great views, and the breakfast is considered high value for money. 6. **Great Value for Money:** Offers 5-star amenities at a lower price point compared to other 5-star hotels in the same area.
From€58

Grand Millennium Beijing

8.8/105849 Reviews
International Trade CBD/Chaoyang Joy City Beijing|4.64km from city centre
This was my first stay at the Grand Millennium Beijing, and it exceeded my expectations by far. It wasn't overly crowded, so it felt very peaceful and quiet. The swimming pool is a major highlight, integrated seamlessly with the gym on a different floor, creating a spacious, high-ceilinged area with a Southeast Asian vibe. I encountered many Hong Kongers there, from business travelers in the elevator to an elderly couple in the executive lounge; they were all very humble and friendly. The surrounding area boasts a wide variety of restaurants, and the Fortune Plaza Mall is practically a canteen for Beijing's white-collar workers. The night view is also top-notch, with the CCTV Headquarters lit up beautifully. A pleasant surprise was bumping into a celebrity while working out – the 'rooster among roosters,' haha. The Grand Millennium is fantastic, giving me every reason to return. The male manager who handled my check-in was very gracious, and the service was just perfect.
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Hotel New Otani Chang Fu Gong

9.5/10Outstanding6407 Reviews
International Trade CBD/Chaoyang Joy City Beijing|2.63km from city centre
I always choose this hotel when I go to Beijing, first because of its convenient location and second because of its excellent service. This time, after watching Nicholas Tse's concert, I specifically changed my booking to stay here the next day. Although there was a slight hiccup, the night manager didn't drag his feet or fail to resolve the issue because it was late; instead, he fixed it very quickly and to my satisfaction. So, I will definitely choose them again next time.
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Business travel

Beijing Xinqiao Hotel

9.1/10Good10473 Reviews
Tian'anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|0.86km from city centre
After comparing several hotels for our family trip to Beijing, we finally settled on the Xinqiao Hotel, and it made our entire trip comfortable and hassle-free – a solid five-star rating! 📍The location is absolutely fantastic. Right outside, you'll find Chongwenmen Subway Station for lines 2 and 5. It's just a 10-15 minute walk to Tiananmen Square, Wangfujing, and Qianmen, and only a few subway stops to the Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven. The surrounding New World and Guorui malls offer plenty of dining and shopping options. Plus, it's very close to Beijing Railway Station, making travel incredibly convenient, especially when traveling with kids. 🛁The room was full of pleasant surprises. The entire room features natural hot spring water drawn from a thousand meters underground, so all the water for washing is natural spring water, making showers wonderfully relaxing. The room was impeccably clean, the bedding was soft and dry, and the mattress was just the right firmness. It was quiet and peaceful at night. We stayed in a family duplex suite, which had two floors and two bathrooms, offering ample space – perfect for a family of three. The amenities were complete, and they even thoughtfully provided children's toiletries and slippers. The attention to detail was exceptional.
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Sunworld Beijing Wangfujing Hotel (The Forbidden City)

9.2/10Very Good3504 Reviews
Tian'anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.62km from city centre
Pros: excellent location next to Wangfujing. Opposite is 7-11 and some food stalls so not to worry if you need food late at night. Hotel allows storage of bags when we go out for short trip and collection of parcels. They helped to liaise with courier on collection of the package which we appreciate given we have no China number. Pillow selections are available if you prefer harder pillow. Cons: hotel quite dated and old. The air dryer is old school dryer and can be replace with a better & faster version. Shower side has no door so water splash out to the sink area. Def need renovation if they want to keep up with other hotels
From€72

Crystal Orange Hotel Beijing Tiananmen Wangfujing

9.4/10Outstanding11296 Reviews
Tian'anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.25km from city centre
The location is unbeatable! It's just a few minutes' walk to Wangfujing, and you can stroll to Tiananmen and the Forbidden City. There's a subway station right across the street, making it super convenient to get around. The room was spotless. The mattress was just right – not too soft, not too firm – and the soundproofing was good. The bathroom had a separate wet and dry area, and the shower had great water pressure and hot water. I really liked the scent of the toiletries too. Breakfast was delicious, with stir-fries, baozi (steamed buns), and zhajiangmian (noodles with fried sauce) – very satisfying. All the staff were lovely. When I checked in, they proactively told me the quickest way to get to the Forbidden City and Tiananmen. They replenished water and tissues daily in the room, and even gave me a souvenir when I checked out. Overall, it offers good value for money, and I'd likely stay here again on my next trip to Beijing.
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Beijing New World Centre Tongpai Hotel

9.1/10Good6744 Reviews
Qianmen, The Temple Of Heaven and Chongwenmen Beijing|1.02km from city centre
The hotel truly lives up to the photos on Ctrip – no discrepancies, no exaggerations, just genuinely good as pictured. As a returning guest, whenever I'm in Beijing, I always stay at the Holiday Inn Express Chongwenmen; it feels just like coming home. I won't rehash what's already displayed. I just want to highlight the hotel's unbeatable location. From here, you can bike to the Forbidden City in 10 minutes; take the subway to the National Museum in 10 minutes; or bike to the Temple of Heaven in 10 minutes. Besides enjoying the scenery and park, there are hidden gems of authentic Beijing cuisine around the Temple of Heaven, waiting for you to savor one by one. If you've eaten your fill, it's a pleasant 10-minute walk to the City Wall Park for a stroll, where you can enjoy flowers in spring, fruits in summer, and beautiful scenery in autumn and winter – all for free. Staying at the Holiday Inn Express is, in a word, 'perfect,' or even better, 'absolutely perfect.'
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Peace Hotel Beijing(Forbidden city)

8.6/101725 Reviews
Tian'anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.47km from city centre
Traveling with kids, this hotel was an excellent choice! The environment was clean and tidy, and the overall atmosphere was very welcoming. The staff were friendly, warm, and attentive, even giving a small gift to my child. Breakfast offered a good variety, with plenty of options for kids like pastries, porridge, and fruits, all very fresh. There's also an M&M's vending machine on the first floor that my child loved. Overall, it's great value for money. It's our top pick for family trips, and we'll definitely be back!
From€79

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Family friendly

Manxin Hotel Beijing Tiananmen Wangfujing

9.5/10Outstanding7082 Reviews
Tian'anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.28km from city centre
While there was an initial misunderstanding due to a hygiene concern which caused distress on our first night stay that I had to escalate the matter through Trip.com, the hotel manager turned the experience around. The night before check-out, we had a genuine and positive conversation at the lobby. She was humble and openly acknowledged her shortcomings and appreciated for helping her learn and grow as a leader. Good to know that a manager willing to take accountability and desire to improve. Every hotel staff we have interacted with are professional and friendly. Aside from the good service recovery, we loved the hotel's convenience: 1. Siji Minfu Peking Roast Duck Restaurant (四季民福) is next to the hotel along with other food options in the same stretch. 2. The hotel is perfectly located within walking distance to Wangfujing Pedestrian Street (shopping and food). 3. The fun robot that delivers food right to our doorstep! The hotel also prepared light snacks for our airport journey. Overall, this hotel is highly recommended!
From€71

Livefortuna Hotel

9.6/10Excellent5411 Reviews
East Second Ring Workers' Stadium Area Beijing|2.95km from city centre
I and my family have a 3 nights stay in the cosy family rooms. The hotel location is very convenient for getting around and exploring the area. The buffet breakfast offers both Western and Asian options. It would be even better if there were more vegetarian dishes available for vegan guests. Overall, it was a good experience, and I enjoyed my stay.
From€68

Kerry Hotel, Beijing

9.2/10Very Good2539 Reviews
International Trade CBD/Chaoyang Joy City Beijing|4.46km from city centre
This is my top choice for a short getaway! The lobby is clean and grand, and the room facilities are new and in perfect condition. Even the hard-to-reach spots were spotless. Front desk staff, Sun Yan, Li Zhongqiu, and Zhang Yaonan, provided warm and professional service. The check-in and check-out process was smooth. Honestly, I couldn't find a single fault. Highly recommend!
From€120

Grand Kingtown Hotel BeijingBeijing West Railway (Station Lize Business District)

9.6/10Excellent6923 Reviews
Beijing West Railway Station Area Beijing|7.17km from city centre
Traveling with my parents, we arrived at the hotel in about four or five minutes after exiting the West High-Speed Rail Station. The room was clean and odor-free, and the bedding felt soft, skin-friendly, and comfortable – not scratchy at all. Lying down, I instantly felt all my fatigue melt away. The air conditioning was set at the perfect temperature, neither too hot nor too cold, and the windows provided excellent sound insulation, so we barely heard any traffic noise from outside. After a hot shower, I quickly fell asleep in bed and woke up the next day feeling incredibly refreshed. Such a comfortable stay is truly a rare find! 🛌
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Bai Fu Yi Hotel

9.3/10Very Good3039 Reviews
East Second Ring Workers' Stadium Area Beijing|5.33km from city centre
First off, every staff member we encountered at the hotel was incredibly warm and welcoming, from the front desk to the housekeeping team. They were all very polite and proactive in helping resolve any issues, which was fantastic! However, we did encounter quite a few minor problems during our stay. 1. Check-in time: We arrived at 1:30 PM to check in, only to be told our room wasn't ready and we'd have to wait about an hour. We waited at the front desk until 2:30 PM without any notification. After we prompted them, the front desk called housekeeping, and it wasn't until 3:00 PM that a staff member finally took us to our room. 2. Upon reaching the room, the staff member informed us we'd have to wait for the room key. This was the first time I've ever encountered this situation. We waited two or three minutes before another staff member brought the key over. 3. We booked a two-bedroom suite. Both bedrooms and the living room had TVs, but only the TV in one bedroom worked. The TVs in the other bedroom and the living room had no signal, meaning if our family wanted to watch TV, we all had to squeeze into one room. 4. When we took a shower in the evening, we realized that perhaps the room was cleaned too hastily. The entire suite only had two sets of toothbrushes, and there was no shampoo or shower gel. It made me wonder if the room was properly inspected after cleaning. 5. The toilet paper in the bathroom was placed too close to the trash can, making it easy for the toilet paper to touch the bin. The towels were placed directly above the toilet, which could easily lead to contamination from toilet bacteria. 6. The next morning, we went down for breakfast and asked a staff member at the lobby bar where breakfast was served, and they didn't even know there was breakfast! That was quite surprising. Overall, the hotel offers good value for money, and the staff are great, but there were simply too many small issues. Perhaps training needs to be strengthened or management processes need to be optimized.
From€66

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Hot spring

Beijing Marriott Hotel Changping

9.1/10Good2946 Reviews
Changping Town/Shisanling Resort Beijing|40.96km from city centre
The room was quite spacious, and the air conditioning was comfortable. The sofa was a big help when traveling with kids. It was very convenient for going to the hot springs and swimming. Even though it was crowded during the Dragon Boat Festival, the overall experience was still pretty good! We stayed one night and got to enjoy two half-days of activities, leaving us wanting more. Plus, there's a Wanda Plaza nearby with plenty of food and drink options – highly recommend! The breakfast was also quite rich and varied.
From€95

COMMUNE BY THE GREAT WALL , IN THE UNBOUND COLLECTION BY HYATT

9.2/10Very Good1232 Reviews
Badaling Great Wall/Badaling Wildlife Park Beijing|56.95km from city centre
My first time here was over 10 years ago for a company meeting, and I stayed in the bamboo house then. Unfortunately, I was too busy with work those two days and didn't get a chance to truly appreciate the scenery. After that, I only stopped by once for a meal in passing. This time, my experience was excellent. I really felt that this is a great place to completely unwind and escape the hustle and bustle, while still being not too far from the city center. The only minor downsides were that the facilities are a bit old, and it would have been perfect if the windows were cleaned more thoroughly. Also, the wild Great Wall that used to be accessible for climbing is now closed, which was a slight disappointment. But overall, these points are negligible. Finally, a big thank you to Olivier, Manager Wang Yuanyuan, and their colleagues for their warm hospitality and thoughtful care, which made our two days here wonderful and unforgettable.
From€107

Grand Bay Hotel Beijing

9.7/10Excellent4935 Reviews
Miyun reservoir Beijing|70.35km from city centre
Escaping the city hustle for a weekend getaway here was an absolute delight! This hotel, nestled deep in the mountains of Miyun, immediately transports you with lush greenery and crisp, clean air the moment you step in, instantly melting away work stress. The floor-to-ceiling windows and observation balcony offer stunning layered mountain views right from the sofa. The L'Occitane toiletries, soft bedding, and excellent soundproofing showcase their attention to detail. I slept incredibly well in the peaceful quiet of the night. The biggest surprise was the mountain hot springs. Over a dozen therapeutic pools are scattered throughout the forest, and soaking in them while enjoying the evening breeze was incredibly therapeutic. The salt steam room also worked wonders for my sore shoulders and neck. The staff were all wonderfully gentle and attentive. A special shout-out to Luna Zhang for her exceptional service! Any request was met with a swift and thorough response; their service was incredibly thoughtful and warm. ❤️ Breakfast offered a rich variety with all sorts of pastries. The hiking trail behind the hotel seems perfect for fitness enthusiasts, but I missed out due to the rain – guess I'll have to come back!
From€159

BRICKYARD RETREAT

9.6/10Excellent416 Reviews
Mutianyu Great Wall/Xiangshuihu Great Wall area Beijing|59.45km from city centre
A truly great vacation isn't about an abundance of facilities, excessive service, or a high-brow experience. It's about that genuine sense of relaxation it gives you. During our two days at The Brickyard, we saw so many smiling faces. Everyone was happy, whether they were staying, dining, or just hanging out. You see glazed tile elements everywhere, and the design language in every corner, from the tile kilns, chimneys, and caves, to the flooring decorated with shattered glazed tiles. The former glazed tile factory has been reborn. There's no TV here, and while there's a gym, hot springs, spa, and nail salon, the facilities themselves fade into the background. Check-in, afternoon tea, breakfast, dinner, the rooms, the transportation – everything was perfect, just like coming home. It’s only 1 kilometer from Mutianyu Great Wall, and the hotel provided a private car transfer and even gifted us tickets. In the evenings there’s a bonfire, and in the afternoons, handicraft activities – absolutely no dull moments. The hotel is located in Bohai Town, nestled in a small mountain valley, with an abundance of negative oxygen ions and far from the noise of the 'Sleepless Valley.' All you hear are birds chirping, and you see the distant Great Wall and chestnut trees everywhere. Oh, and laughter, of course. Highly recommended, we'll definitely be back! We are old because we are good, We are good because we are old!
From€172

Grand Metropark Longxi Conference Center Beijing

9.3/10Very Good1258 Reviews
Daxing Airpot Beijing|32.32km from city centre
The rooms are clean and tidy, and come with a balcony. When checking in, you need to register your vehicle to park in the underground parking lot 🅿️, otherwise, you might be charged a parking fee. We had three king-size rooms, and 1119 had the best view, overlooking the lake from the balcony, with a beautiful sunrise in the morning. The room directly opposite could see the golf course behind, which was great for sunset views. The bathroom and bathtub are in separate spaces opposite each other, designed with two sinks for simultaneous use. The front desk is on the second floor, and the connecting corridor to the hot spring ♨️ is also on the same floor, though it's a bit of a walk. The buffet restaurant is on the first floor. Complimentary fruit was provided in the room.
From€69

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Gym

Park Plaza Beijing Wangfujing

9.4/10Outstanding3628 Reviews
Tian'anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.72km from city centre
This five-star hotel truly delivers on luxury, making for an exceptional experience. The location is definitely a highlight – it's incredibly convenient for getting anywhere. With Metro Lines 1 and 5 just a short walk away, getting around is effortless. Step out of the hotel and turn left, and you'll find a mall within 50 meters, offering such a wide array of shopping and dining options that you might have trouble choosing. All your retail therapy and foodie cravings will be easily satisfied. The room itself was a pleasant surprise. It was exceptionally spacious, bright, and well-lit. The floor-to-ceiling window offered an amazing view – it was incredibly relaxing to just lie down and take in the scenery. The amenities were comprehensive, and the pillows and mattress were incredibly comfortable. I slept like a baby, straight through the night, waking up completely refreshed. Breakfast also deserves a mention. There was a rich variety of both Chinese and Western dishes, with plenty of options to choose from, making for a satisfying start to each day. The staff were consistently warm, polite, and attentive to every guest's needs. Their service was truly outstanding, deserving of high praise! I thoroughly enjoyed my stay these past few days and will definitely choose this hotel again on my next visit.
From€87

Kempinski Hotel Beijing Yansha Center

9.3/10Very Good6047 Reviews
Yansha Commercial Area Beijing|7.02km from city centre
My recent stay at the Kempinski Hotel Beijing Lufthansa Center in a Deluxe River View King Room was generally satisfying. The hotel's location is excellent, making business commutes very convenient. The river view room offered a spacious vista with good natural light and soundproofing. The public areas were clean and elegant, and the room's cleanliness was well-maintained. All facilities were complete and in good condition. Both the front desk and room service were prompt and attentive. Overall, the hardware and service match the hotel's star rating, making it suitable for business travelers. The only minor drawback is that some of the soft furnishings in the guest rooms appear slightly dated, with room for improvement in the details. Nevertheless, I would still prioritize staying here on future business trips to Beijing.
From€119

Nuo Hotel Beijing

9.1/10Good2539 Reviews
Wangjing Area Beijing|10.16km from city centre
The surrounding area offers great entertainment and amenities, with beautiful scenery. Parks, cafes, and pubs are all within walking distance. From the room window, you can see a large lawn, making it perfect for a relaxing weekend getaway. The decor is Chinese style, and both the rooms and public areas are very well-designed. The guest traffic is moderate, so it's not noisy. The concierge staff proactively help with luggage, deliver and retrieve items, and open car doors. The service is incredibly warm and thoughtful.
From€105

Grand Hyatt Beijing at Oriental Plaza

9.4/10Outstanding9720 Reviews
Tian'anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|0.86km from city centre
The Grand Hyatt Beijing is my top choice whenever I visit Beijing, and this stay was absolutely perfect! As soon as I stepped into the lobby, I was captivated by the iconic water feature. What impressed me even more was the front desk service. Amy, with her warm smile, was incredibly efficient. She not only handled my check-in quickly but also thoughtfully provided information about the hotel facilities and nearby transportation. Every staff member I encountered greeted me proactively, offering attentive and enthusiastic service that made me feel right at home. The room was spacious and comfortable with excellent soundproofing, and the location is unbeatable, right on Wangfujing Street. I will definitely stay here again on my next trip to Beijing!
From€206

Four Seasons Hotel Beijing

9.2/10Very Good2057 Reviews
Yansha Commercial Area Beijing|7.18km from city centre
The hotel's location is superb. You can walk to Liangma River, Solana, and Chaoyang Park, which are beautiful both day and night. No need to fight crowds at tourist spots; just strolling around here is quite chill. It's also less than a 30-minute drive to Capital Airport. While the facilities are a bit older compared to newer hotels, they are well-maintained, and the overall ambiance is still there. The gym is well-equipped, and the pool is decent. Breakfast was a bit disappointing, not quite living up to the standard of other Four Seasons locations.
From€197

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Swimming pool

Grand Metropark Hotel Beijing

9.5/10Outstanding7537 Reviews
China International Exhibition Center Area Beijing|7.13km from city centre
I'd seen this hotel before but never had the chance to stay, so I finally got to experience it this time. The city view room had an absolutely stunning view, and with good weather, I could take tons of photos during the blue hour. Liu Shujun at the front desk handled my check-in quickly and professionally, and her service attitude was excellent~ (Take the escalator to the 3rd floor for check-in at the front desk, then the elevator to your room~) It was very quiet, with great soundproofing, so I could get a good night's sleep!
From€73

Jen Beijing by Shangri-La

9.4/10Outstanding5186 Reviews
International Trade CBD/Chaoyang Joy City Beijing|4.7km from city centre
Hotel Jen Beijing has an excellent location, with views of the CCTV Tower directly from the room. The only minor inconvenience was a table placed in front of the window, blocking access and slightly obstructing the view. The room's cleanliness was impeccable. The sofa can be converted into a bed, and the housekeeping staff even set it up with a mattress, sheets, and duvet cover, making it feel quite spacious – perfect for families traveling with children. On the third floor, there's a tea and coffee lounge, which executive room guests can access anytime. Breakfast offered a wide variety of options, and the restaurant itself was quite large. The hotel also has direct access to China World Mall and China World Hotel. From China World Mall, you can take the scenic elevator to the sixth-floor platform for an unobstructed view of the CCTV Tower, which also houses a cafe – I imagine it's lovely in the evening.
From€135

Rosewood Beijing

9.2/10Very Good4003 Reviews
International Trade CBD/Chaoyang Joy City Beijing|4.88km from city centre
Rosewood Beijing is my top choice when visiting Beijing, especially as a Trip.com Black Diamond member. The hotel offers numerous exclusive benefits, including room upgrades, late check-out, and welcome fruits. Even with high occupancy, they proactively upgraded me to a Grand View Room facing the China Zun and CCTV Tower, which I was very pleased with. This is my second stay at a Rosewood property. As the first Rosewood in mainland China, it's not as new as the Guangzhou location, having opened in 2014, but the service and quality remain consistently excellent! I also enjoyed the Executive Lounge; the service was fantastic, and the champagne was delicious.
From€284

Regent Beijing

9.5/10Outstanding6972 Reviews
Tian'anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.66km from city centre
As a seasoned hotel connoisseur, I've stayed in countless so-called luxury hotels, many of which offer the same cookie-cutter service. But the Regent Beijing genuinely impressed me with its unique blend of understated elegance and sophistication, reminiscent of old money charm. 📍 Unbeatable Prime Location The hotel is situated at the intersection of Jinbao Street and Wangfujing, right next to Dengshikou Station on Metro Line 5. My Forbidden City view room was absolutely breathtaking. In the morning, I could lie in bed and watch the Forbidden City's glazed golden roofs faintly emerge through the mist; in the evening, I could gaze upon the Forbidden City, the CCTV Tower, and even the Western Hills right from my room. This experience of viewing the imperial city from the comfort of your bed is truly unique to Beijing. 🤵 Impeccable and Discreet Service As a long-standing luxury hotel, the service was perfectly nuanced. The front desk proactively upgraded my room upon check-in. The staff were attentive, professional, and handled issues efficiently and thoughtfully. They were never overly effusive but always seemed to appear exactly when needed. The Regent Beijing isn't a trendy, 'insta-worthy' hotel that wows you at first glance. Instead, it's a classic masterpiece that gets more comfortable the longer you stay, with sophistication evident in every detail. Whether for business travel or a leisure trip, this is my top choice for accommodation in Beijing. I highly recommend it to every traveler seeking quality!
From€127

NUO Resort Hotel-Universal Beijing Resort

9.6/10Excellent7848 Reviews
Universal Beijing Resort and Sorrounding Beijing|24.16km from city centre
I previously stayed at the Universal, and this time I decided to try Nuo Hotel. Overall, it was pretty good, but the butter at breakfast was expired. I opened several packets, and they were all like that. The restaurant manager quickly confirmed it with the kitchen staff and came over to apologize, removing all the expired butter. They admitted it was their mistake. I find it unbelievable that a hotel could make such a basic error. With food safety being so compromised, I wouldn't dare to go back. I still had an unopened packet of butter on my table from earlier, so I took a photo of it before leaving. The other packets, which were consumed, were brought from the kitchen by the staff and were not expired.
From€242

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Breakfast

Scitech Hotel

9.5/10Outstanding4466 Reviews
International Trade CBD/Chaoyang Joy City Beijing|2.93km from city centre
The Swissôtel Beijing is an established top-tier hotel in Beijing. Although it's been around for some time, its overall maintenance, facilities, service quality, current pricing, and even its location are, all things considered, still truly outstanding. During my one-day stay, they delivered Beijing specialty snacks to my room three times. The staff were very dedicated and service-oriented. It's highly suitable for tourists because of its incredibly convenient location. Finally, I'd like to thank the staff members Xiao Qiu, Xiao Tong, and Xiao Ying for their thoughtful and meticulous service. I was extremely satisfied with my stay and highly recommend it!
From€80

Yingxiangcheng Hotel (Beijing Canal CBD Luhe Hospital Branch)

9.5/10Outstanding2314 Reviews
The Grand Canal CBD Beijing|21.34km from city centre
The room was spacious, clean, and tidy. What I liked most was the TV, which offered a wide variety of free TV series. Ordering takeout was also incredibly convenient (watching 'Dream of the Red Chamber' while enjoying bubble tea and braised dishes was just bliss). Although the hotel was a bit far from tourist attractions, it actually allowed us to take less popular routes, avoiding the crowds. This meant we had a good chance of getting a seat for the entire journey instead of standing, which was a huge relief (I honestly couldn't handle the crowded Beijing subway anymore during the last few days). Finally, a big shout-out to the front desk staff! The two ladies working on the evening of Jan 2nd and the afternoon of Jan 3rd were both gentle and enthusiastic. The hotel also provided excellent luggage storage service. Five stars! 💓💓💓💓💓
From€24

Gu bei yu shang du jia bie shu(gubeikoushuizhenjingqudian)

9.6/10Excellent14 Reviews
Beijing Wtown/The Simatai Great Wall Beijing|109.66km from city centre
Very satisfied, the kids had a great time Hygiene: Hygienic conditions are also very good Environment: Full score for the environment Service: Nothing except the phone at the front desk couldn't get through, and I also helped to make coffee
From€146

Waldorf Astoria Hutong Courtyard

9.7/10Excellent356 Reviews
Tian'anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.47km from city centre
To experience the authentic courtyard atmosphere, I specifically chose the hotel's Hutong Suite. Outside, Beijing was freezing, but as soon as I entered the room, I was instantly warmed. The bedding was incredibly comfortable, and in the evening, they even provided a complimentary wellness tea and special small snacks, which was a very thoughtful touch! In the morning, I also enjoyed the hotel's breakfast in-room dining service, recharging for the day in the ancient-style room. A special shout-out to Chloe and Willow, thank you for your warm and attentive service. I will definitely choose to stay here again next season!
From€790

Youfang Hotel

9.4/10Outstanding893 Reviews
Tian'anmen Square and Wangfujing Area Beijing|1.12km from city centre
Youfang Hotel has an antique and charming decor, excellent hygiene, and clean, comfortable bedding. It's a safe and secure place to stay with children. The location is very convenient, close to Beijing's city center and JinYu Hutong subway station, making it easy to get around with elderly family members and kids. The hotel service deserves a perfect 10 out of 10; the staff are patient with children and attentive to guests. I'd definitely stay here again if I have the chance!
From€57

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