Beijing is a timeless city, where grand imperial palaces, ancient temples, and majestic gardens tell stories of China’s rich past. If you’re planning a trip, here are the top 10 historical attractions you shouldn’t miss. For curated tours, check out our Beijing tour packages to make your visit effortless.
1. The Forbidden City (Palace Museum)
Once the imperial palace for the Ming and Qing dynasties, the Forbidden City (also known as the Palace Museum) is a vast complex of nearly 1,000 buildings with over 8,700 rooms. Its majestic halls, ornate architecture, and imperial gardens provide a deep dive into China’s dynastic history.
2. The Great Wall of China (Mutianyu / Badaling Sections)
Stretching across the rugged landscape, the Great Wall is perhaps China’s most iconic symbol. Sections like Mutianyu and Badaling are well-preserved and offer vivid panoramic views. Walking along the Wall gives you a sense of the scale and legacy of ancient Chinese fortifications.
3. Temple of Heaven
Built in the early 15th century under Emperor Yongle, this grand complex was where emperors worshiped for good harvests. Its circular design, ornate altars, and surrounding park make it both architecturally impressive and spiritually meaningful.
4. Summer Palace (Yiheyuan)
A royal retreat for Qing dynasty emperors, the Summer Palace combines lakes, gardens, and palaces in a harmonious landscape. Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill are highlights, along with the elegant bridges and halls. A relaxing and inspiring place to escape the bustle of the city.
5. Tiananmen Square & Gate of Heavenly Peace
This enormous square is the political and cultural center of modern China. It’s surrounded by landmarks like the Great Hall of the People, Mao Zedong Memorial Hall, and the Monument to the People’s Heroes. The Gate of Heavenly Peace (Tiananmen Gate) offers an iconic entrance toward the Forbidden City.
6. Jingshan Park
Located immediately north of the Forbidden City, this man-made hill (built from earth excavated from the moat of the imperial palace) gives one of the best panoramic views of Beijing. Especially beautiful during sunrise or sunset.
7. Ming Tombs (Shisanling)
The burial site of 13 Ming dynasty emperors, the Ming Tombs include exquisite mausoleums, spirit ways with statues, and the highlights of Changling and Dingling. It’s also part of the cultural route outside the city, giving visitors a deeper view of imperial burial traditions.
8. Beihai Park
One of the oldest and best-preserved imperial gardens in China. With its lake, traditional pavilions, long corridors, and striking White Dagoba, Beihai Park is a calm oasis allowing you to imagine life during the emperors’ time.
9. Marco Polo Bridge (Lugou Bridge)
Known for its stone lions lining the sides and its association with the Marco Polo Bridge Incident (1937), this bridge is rich in both architectural detail and historical significance. A bit outside the center, but worth the trip.
10. Beijing Ancient Observatory / Drum & Bell Towers
The Beijing Ancient Observatory showcases beautiful Ming and Qing dynasty astronomical instruments and gives perspective on ancient Chinese astronomy. Meanwhile, the Drum and Bell Towers stand as symbols of timekeeping and daily life in old Beijing.
Why Choose a Tour Package?
Visiting these sites is more rewarding with guided tours, expert historical context, and seamless logistics — entry tickets, transfers, and local guides. To truly make the most of your time and cover the best attractions without hassle, consider booking one of our Beijing tour packages today. Relax, explore, and let us take care of the details