Where to Stay in Beijing • 5 BEST Areas for a Memorable Stay
Get ready to journey to a city that doesn’t look like anywhere you’ve been before! Temples, history, cultural landmarks, the best shopping malls, amazing local foods, and nightlife – welcome to the capital city of China, Beijing! If you’re planning to visit this amazing city, you’re probably asking the question: where to stay in Beijing?
I know that Beijing can seem a little overwhelming, so to make your planning easier, I’ve compared all the areas and picked out the best spots for visitors.
As a result of my research, I can tell you that Wangfujing is the best area to stay in Beijing for first-time visitors, with its numerous shopping and entertainment opportunities.
To make your choice that much easier, I went through nearly all of the hotels in the city and handpicked the best ones for you! And since Beijing is a very popular travel destination, hotels can fill up quickly, so don’t forget to book in advance and get the best deals on top hotels.
If you’re ready, let’s start our tour of Beijing, China!
Quick Picks for Your Stay
These are the top hotels in Wangfujing, Beijing:
NOTE: as some of you may know, in my articles, I always recommend several accommodation options for each of the featured areas – a luxury, mid-range, and budget hotel, plus an Airbnb. However, since Airbnb is not available in China, I recommend an apartment or an additional budget or mid-range hotel for each of the areas.
Here’s a map of the 5 Beijing areas recommended in this article:
1. Wangfujing – where to stay in Beijing for first-timers
The Wangfujing area is situated within the Dongcheng District (more on this later) and is the main shopping spot in the capital city and one of the top shopping streets in the country.
Besides shopping, it offers a range of dining and entertainment opportunities and has a very lively atmosphere, which is why I recommend it for first-time visitors to the city.
The focal point of the area is Wangfujing Street (map), a large pedestrian street lined with shops, boutiques, and large designer stores. I’m certain you can spend at least a couple of days exploring all the shops along this street. But if you’re staying here, you should know that this is also the best location to stay in Beijing for exploring various historic landmarks.
TIP: if you like shopping, be sure to check out the Xidan area, situated in the Xicheng District. This is a major commercial and shopping hub, and it’s plenty of fun to visit for a day. Unfortunately, there aren’t too many accommodation options in the area, which is why I don’t recommend it as a good place to stay during your trip to Beijing.
This part of the city has been a hub of activity for centuries, as you can see from the nearby attractions.
The Imperial Ancestral Temple (map), situated just outside the Forbidden City, is a historic spot where sacrificial ceremonies were held during the rule of both the Ming and Qing dynasties.
If you decide to explore Wangfujing Street from start to finish, you’ll need to start at Chang’an Avenue and walk 1.6 km (1 mile) North to arrive at the National Art Museum of China – I highly recommend spending a few hours exploring the museum’s vast collection.
On your way to the museum, you’ll come across the Huang Cheng Gen Heritage Park (map) and the Peking University Red Building (map), both worth a quick stop.
Staying here means that you’ll be close to the city center; Beijing’s Central Business District is just a 7-min drive away, so you can always go and explore another part of the city.
Now, let’s take a look at the best accommodations in Wangfujing:
Luxury hotel
In a central location, near many of the top Beijing attractions, this 5-star hotel offers impeccable service and many upscale amenities. Guests will benefit from a 24/7 front desk, an on-site currency exchange, and room service and use the available facilities, including a gym and an indoor swimming pool.
Other accommodation options in Wangfujing
Mid-range
Surrounded by shopping malls and stylish restaurants, this hotel has nicely decorated guest rooms with high-quality furniture and an air purifier
Budget
This budget hotel offers air-conditioned rooms featuring a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, plus free Wi-Fi access
Airbnb
Each of these serviced apartments has a seating area with a flat-screen TV, a well-equipped kitchen, and a private bathroom
Things to do in Wangfujing
- Go shopping along Wangfujing Avenue
- Pay a visit to the Imperial Ancestral Temple
- Try some delicious street food at the Wangfujing Night Market (map)
- Explore the collections at the National Art Museum of China
- Walk around Huang Cheng Gen Heritage Park
- Stop by the University Red Building
- Spend a few hours at the Oriental Plaza (map) shopping mall
- Venture out to the Beijing Central Business District and explore this part of the city
2. Qianmen – where to stay in Beijing with family
Qianmen is the colloquial name of the Zhengyangmen area that takes up the Western part of the Dongcheng District. Situated just a 7-min drive Southwest of Wangfujing, this area is bustling with life. It provides an in-depth look into local life and easy access to many major attractions, making it the best place to stay in Beijing with family.
Just like in Wangfujing, the neighborhood is centered around the eponymous Qianmen Street (map), full of stores, workshops, and traditional restaurants. This is a pedestrian street, so you can enjoy leisurely strolls, get some souvenirs, and stop at one of the restaurants and indulge in a delicious meal.
FUN FACT: Qianmen Street was called Zhengyangmen Street during the Ming and Qing dynasties but received its present name in 1965. Zhengyangmen literally translates to ‘Front Gate,’ referring to the gate that was part of the Beijing city wall.
Start your day of exploring at the Southern end of Qianmen Street by paying a visit to the Zhengyangmen gatehouse (map). Move on to the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong (map), which is not only the final resting place of the famed Chinese leader but also an amazing museum. Entry to the museum is completely free, but the queues are quite long, so be prepared to wait!
Continue North and stop by the Monument to the People’s Heroes (map), then visit the National Museum of China, where you’ll see the largest collection of Chinese relics in the entire world.
Finally, you’ll arrive at Tiananmen Square (map), a huge city square and a must-visit while in Beijing. Although all of these are family-friendly activities, if you want to do something extra fun with the kids, you can make the 20-min drive out to Beijing Zoo, the oldest zoo in the country, and the Beijing Aquarium, famous for being an inland aquarium.
Luxury hotel
Situated within walking distance of the Temple of Heaven, this upscale hotel has comfortable rooms that offer views of the city. You can also enjoy the luxurious facilities – the spa, the indoor pool, the gym – and even indulge in a massage. There’s an on-site tour desk offering car rentals and ticketing services.
Other accommodation options in Qianmen
mid-range
A conveniently located hotel providing easy access to the subway line, offering a tour desk, a library, and luggage storage
budget
This hotel features a 24-hour gym, a hot spring spa, and elegantly decorated rooms, situated near many major attractions
airbnb
A short walk away from Wangfujing Subway Station, this cheap hotel offers comfortable rooms and free parking
Things to do in Qianmen
- Explore the shops at Qianmen Street
- Visit the Zhengyangmen gatehouse
- Stop by the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong and the Monument to the People’s Heroes
- See the collection at the National Museum of China (Chinese National Museum)
- Admire the architecture of the National Centre for the Performing Arts (map)
- Spend some time walking around Tiananmen Square
- Take the kids to the Beijing Zoo and Beijing Aquarium
- Venture out to the nearby Xicheng District and Beihai Park (map)
3. Sanlitun – where to stay in Beijing nightlife
Sanlitun is part of the Chaoyang District, located a 20-min drive Northeast of Wangfujing. The area has a very modern vibe and boasts numerous dining and partying options; it’s the best place to stay in Beijing if you’re looking for an active nightlife scene!
If you head to Sanlitun Bar Street you will find a crazy amount of bars, clubs, trendy cafes, and great restaurants. So put on your dancing shoes and get ready to experience Beijing at night!
When you start feeling hungry, I suggest you head to Jingzun Peking Duck Restaurant (map) and have some of the restaurant’s staple – Peking duck!
As far as tourist attractions go, you won’t see them in the confines of the Sanlitun area. However, there are a few spots nearby that are worth exploring, such as Chaoyang Park (map).
Check out some of the best hotels in Beijing featured below:
Luxury hotel
InterContinental Beijing Sanlitun
This luxurious hotel provides easy access to historic landmarks, such as Tiananmen Square, as well as the Tuanjiehu Subway Station. You can go for a swim in the indoor pool, workout in the gym, and relax in the spa center. Plus, you can choose from the 3 dining options on-site and benefit from free parking.
Other accommodation options in Sanlitun
mid-range
Guests at the Holiday Inn Express will enjoy modern rooms, a rich breakfast buffet, and fresh coffee in the lobby
budget
Each of the rooms at this hotel features a large double bed, a TV with satellite channels, and a kitchen
airbnb
Conveniently located in central Beijing, these apartments offer access to a shared kitchen and luggage storage services
Things to do in Sanlitun
- Go bar hopping on Sanlitun Bar Street
- Have some delicious duck at the Jingzun Peking Duck Restaurant
- Go for a stroll at Chaoyang Park
- Try various flavors of dumplings at Baoyuan Dumplings Restaurant (map)
- Do some shopping at The Place (map) shopping mall in the Dongzhimen District
4. Gulou – where to stay in Beijing for local culture
Gulou is located 6 km (4 mi) North of Wangfujing (about a 15-minute drive), and it is one of the best areas to stay in Beijing if you are looking for a culture fix! The area has a very old-timey feel to it, so it’ll be perfect for travelers who want to have a traditional Beijing experience.
The name Gulou means ‘Drum Tower,’ and it comes from one of the most famous landmarks in the area – the Beijing Drum and Bell Towers (map).
Both the Drum Tower and the Bell Tower date back to 1272 and were originally used as musical instruments. Later on, they were used to tell time, and now, they are one of the top Beijing attractions.
The area is home to several lakes, most notably Houhai Lake (map). You’ll also see traditional hutongs, which are alleyways formed around siheyuan, i.e., authentic residences with traditional courtyards.
Thanks to its well-preserved traditional Chinese architecture, it is one of the coolest areas in the city. So, if any of you were wondering where to stay in Beijing for tourists who want to feel like they’ve been transported back in time to Old Beijing, then I have to tell you – there’s no place for it like Gulou!
The neighborhood is also in a convenient location for exploring other famous landmarks like Prince Gong Mansion (map), the Lama Temple (map), and the Beijing Temple of Confucius (map).
If you are looking to do some shopping or are craving some traditional food, head to Nanluoguxiang (map), a pedestrian street that is known as the most famous part of Hutongs. This street will provide a glimpse into inner city life but also offers a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops selling souvenirs and traditional crafts.
And, these are the ultimate accommodation choices for your stay in Gulou, Beijing:
Luxury hotel
Within walking distance of the Dongzhimen Subway Station, this 5-star hotel boasts modern and comfortable interiors, a restaurant, a fitness room, and a business center. During your stay, you can also go for a swim in the indoor pool, order room service, and benefit from the laundry and dry cleaning services.
Other accommodation options in Gulou
mid-range
This 4-star hotel is located in a traditional old residence and offers a nice courtyard and comfortable rooms
budget
A hotel situated in a historic Beijing hutong, offering rooms decorated in traditional Chinese style and various day tours
airbnb
Situated in a traditional Chinese building, this hostel offers both private rooms and shared dormitories perfect if you’re backpacking
Things to do in Gulou
- See the impressive Bell and Drum Tower
- Walk around the hutongs and admire the architecture
- Wander around the Lotus Market Marina (map)
- Visit the Lama Temple and the Confucius Temple
- Go to the Prince Chun’s Mansion
- Do some souvenir shopping at Nanluoguxiang
5. Dongcheng District – where to stay near the Forbidden City
I’ve previously mentioned Dongcheng; this is a large district in the Eastern part of central Beijing that encompasses both the Wangfujing and Qianmen areas. However, for my last recommendation, I’m going to talk about the rest of the district, seeing as this is the best location for visiting the Forbidden City and has a very vibrant vibe.
Before you visit the famous Forbidden City, I highly recommend you pay a visit to Tiantan Park, better known as the home of the Temple of Heaven (map), a large complex of religious buildings that symbolize the connection between Earth and heaven.
Then, you should spend a good portion of your day exploring the Forbidden City (map); start at the Meridian Gate, visit the museum at the Hall of Supreme Harmony, and admire the Palace of Earthly Tranquility and all the surrounding buildings.
Once you’re done exploring the Forbidden City, exit through the Gate of Divine Prowess and have a relaxing stroll in Jingshan Park (map).
FUN FACT: the Ming dynasty constructed the Forbidden City, as well as many other important landmarks, such as the Great Wall of China, the Lama Temple, and many, many others.
Aside from being home to a large majority of the city’s main landmarks, Dongcheng is also scattered with interesting museums for you to explore. You will have a lot to discover here, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes!
Once you’ve had your fill of history, head to the smaller Dongzhimen area located inside the wider Dongcheng area. Here, you will find many nice shopping places, such as the historic Wudaoying Hutong Street (map). While here, don’t overlook Gui Jie, also known as Ghost Street, a famous snack street where you can try some delicious street food.
If you’re looking for where to stay for the Great Wall of China and that Old Beijing feel, Dongcheng is the best location. Plus, many other major attractions, like Tiananmen Square, are just a short walk away from the Beijing hotels in this area, so there are plenty of ways to fill your time.
Luxury hotel
This gorgeous hotel showcases the charm of Old China, decorated with rich furnishings and many priceless antiques. Some of the top facilities at the hotel include a spa center and an indoor pool. You can also work out in the state-of-the-art gym or turn to the tour desk, which can help you organize various activities.
Other accommodation options in Dongcheng District
mid-range
Just a short walk away from the subway station, this hotel has air-conditioned rooms with an in-room safe
budget
Featuring a restaurant and a tea bar, the hotel offers rooms with en suite bathrooms, plus free Wi-Fi and parking
airbnb
This budget accommodation has air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, a 24/7 front desk, and a cafe on-site
Things to do in Dongcheng
- Visit the Temple of Heaven
- Spend a day exploring the Forbidden City
- Snap a photo of the Meridian Gate
- Check out the views from Jingshan Park
- Embark on a bus tour to see the Great Wall of China
- Go shopping at Wudaoying Hutong Street
- Try some delicious street foods at Ghost Street
- Join a guided tour of the Summer Palace
BONUS: Best Hotels near the Beijing Capital International Airport
Whether you’re stopping over for one night or don’t want to miss an early flight, you always have the option of staying close to the Beijing Capital International Airport. Being such a large flight hub as it is, there’s a good selection of accommodations near the airport, from luxury to budget hotels.
That being said, here are your best options to stay close to the airport, organized by price, from highest to lowest:
- Luxury ($$$): Cordis By Langham Hospitality – located just next to Beijing Airport, this is one of the best luxury hotels, with a free airport shuttle, spacious rooms with a balcony, a fully-equipped fitness center, spa and wellness center, plus a nice bar.
- Mid-range ($$): Atour Hotel – this comfortable hotel provides an airport shuttle service, free of charge, and spacious rooms with private bathrooms, air conditioning, and a flat-screen TV.
- Budget ($): Ramada by Wyndham – an affordable hotel offering a 24-hour airport pick-up and drop-off service for free, as well as spacious guest rooms, 24/7 room service, and free parking.
FAQs about where to stay in Beijing
🗺️ Which is the best area to stay in Beijing?
The best place to stay in Beijing, especially for first-time visitors, is Wangfujing due to its convenient location near the city center, the extensive shopping opportunities, and some amazing hotels, such as the Mandarin Oriental Wangfujing and the Sunworld Hotel.
🤔 Can foreigners stay in any hotel in China?
In theory, yes. Foreign guests can stay at any Chinese hotel if they register with the local police station. However, some smaller properties may turn away foreigners to avoid the registration process. You won’t have any trouble booking any of the hotels recommended in this post.
❓ Is Beijing safe for tourists?
Beijing is a very safe city to travel to for tourists, and because of this, it’s a great destination for solo travelers. Although there are some pickpockets around the main tourist areas, you can protect yourself by keeping your valuables out of sight.
🛎️ Where to stay on Qianmen street?
🇨🇳 Where to stay in Beijing to visit the Great Wall of China?
⏳ How many days do you need in Beijing?
I recommend you stay in Beijing for at least 4 to 5 days to experience the culture and see the main landmarks such as the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and the National Art Museum, plus take a day trip to the Great Wall of China.
👨👩👦👦 What are the best hotels for families in Beijing?
🚶🏽 Is Beijing a walkable city?
Since Beijing is such a large city, it’s not very walkable, but it has a great public transport system and many reasonably priced taxi services. I’d recommend Beijing Taxi, especially if you need to get somewhere quickly and securely.
📅 What is the best time to visit Beijing?
The best time to visit Beijing is between March and May and September and October when the weather is not too hot or too cold.
Final thoughts on where to stay in Beijing
We’re at the end of my guide on where to stay in Beijing! I hope you found my advice helpful and decided on which area to stay in Beijing and which of the recommended hotels to book.
However, if you’re still undecided, let me share my 2 favorite hotels in Wangfujing:
- Mandarin Oriental Wangfujing – this upscale hotel is in a great location and offers access to a pool, as well as 2 restaurants
- Sunworld Hotel – a very comfortable and tastefully decorated hotel with a modern gym and a tour desk that arranges various activities
Regardless of where you choose to stay in Beijing, book your hotel in advance of your trip; all the best spots sell out quickly, and you don’t want to compromise on quality during your trip.
If you have any more questions, feel free to pop them in the comments section below – I’ll be more than happy to get back to you!
Have an unforgettable stay in Beijing,
Hristina
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