Beijing
The safest first China trip — as long as the timings are right.
Beijing is one of the destinations we cover in China. Best season: April to May, September to October. Altitude: About 44 m. China Custom Tours (chinacustomtours.hk) runs private tailor-made trips in Beijing with a dedicated vehicle and guide, and no shopping stops.
- Best season
- April to May, September to October
- Temperature
- Summer 24–34°C, winter -8–4°C
- Altitude
- About 44 m
- Published routes
- 3
Beijing
Beijing is China's political and cultural centre and the safest first trip: dense sights, good metro, plentiful hotels and direct flights. But the crowds are real, so sequencing matters — enter the Forbidden City at opening, choose Mutianyu, walk the Temple of Heaven from the south gate. It is also a rail hub: 4.5 h to Xi'an, 5.5 h to Shanghai.
| Best season | April to May, September to October |
|---|---|
| Temperature | Summer 24–34°C, winter -8–4°C |
| Altitude | About 44 m |
Last updated 2026-10-13 · maintained by the China Custom Tours editorial desk
The places at the heart of these itineraries.
Forbidden City, Tiananmen, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, hutongs.
Where Mutianyu Great Wall is.
Badaling Great Wall and Longqing Gorge.
Thirty minutes by rail — Wudadao and the Italian quarter.
Every one of these can be rebuilt around your dates.
ClassicBeijing, the Great Wall & the Forbidden City
Everyone visits Beijing. The difference is whether you queue at Badaling or walk a quiet stretch at Mutianyu.
HistoryXi'an, Terracotta Army & the Silk Road
Capital of thirteen dynasties and the eastern start of the Silk Road. The Terracotta Army deserves half a day, not two hours.
Best first tripChina Essentials: 12 Days
If you are only visiting China once, do Beijing, Xi'an, Dunhuang and Shanghai in one go.
Beijing travel questions.
How do I book Forbidden City tickets?
Real-name booking, usually released seven days ahead. We book for you on release day. It is closed Mondays so the itinerary order adjusts.
Badaling or Mutianyu for the Great Wall?
We recommend Mutianyu: fewer people, better preserved, with a cable car and toboggan. Badaling is more famous but often means an hour of queuing in peak season.
Is Beijing suitable for elderly parents?
Yes. Short distances between sights, morning starts and an afternoon hotel rest. Wheelchairs can be borrowed at the Forbidden City and the Summer Palace.
Want to go to Beijing?
A draft itinerary and a clear price within one working day.