Hristina Lozanovska 
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.
Stay in Wangfujing for your first visit to Beijing: it is central, walkable to the Forbidden City and packed with shopping. Pick Qianmen for families and value, Sanlitun for nightlife, Gulou for old-Beijing hutong culture, and Dongcheng to be nearest the Forbidden City.
To make your choice even easier, I went through nearly all 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.
¥ Payments & apps: set these up before you land
Beijing runs on mobile payments, so download Alipay or WeChat Pay and link an international card before you arrive, as cash and foreign cards are increasingly hard to use in shops, taxis and restaurants. Add Didi for ride-hailing, and set up a VPN before you land if you want to reach Google, WhatsApp or Instagram, since they are blocked inside China.
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 featured area – a luxury, mid-range, and budget hotel, plus an Airbnb. However, since Airbnb is not available in China, I recommend an apartment, a higher budget, or a mid-range hotel for each area.
Contents
Watch my video, it will give you a visual explanation of all the areas:
Here’s a map of the 5 Beijing areas recommended in this article:
- WANGFUJING: for first-timers
- QIANMEN: for families
- SANLITUN: for nightlife
- GULOU: for local culture
- DONGCHENG: for the Forbidden City
| Area | Best for | Vibe | Top hotel pick (Booking score) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wangfujing | First-timers, shopping | Central, walkable to the sights | Mandarin Oriental Wangfujing (9.6) |
| Qianmen | Families, value | Restored historic hutongs | New World Beijing (9.1) |
| Sanlitun | Nightlife, dining | Trendy, international | InterContinental Beijing Sanlitun (9.3) |
| Gulou | Local culture | Old Beijing, Drum Tower | The Orchid Hotel (9.3) |
| Dongcheng District | Forbidden City access | Imperial core, central | Howard Johnson Paragon (9.0) |
1. Wangfujing – where to stay in Beijing for first-timers
The Wangfujing area is situated in the Dongcheng District (more on this later) and is the capital’s main shopping spot and one of the country’s top shopping streets.
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 it is also the best location 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 evidenced by 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 begin at Chang’an Avenue and walk 1.6 km (1 mile) North to reach 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 you’ll be close to the city center; Beijing’s Central Business District is just a 7-min drive away, so you can always explore another part of the city.
Now, let’s take a look at the best accommodations in Wangfujing:
In a central location near many of Beijing’s top attractions, this 5-star hotel offers impeccable service and a range of 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
Surrounded by shopping malls and stylish restaurants, this hotel has nicely decorated guest rooms with high-quality furniture and an air purifier
This budget hotel offers air-conditioned rooms featuring a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, plus free Wi-Fi access
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 for the Zhengyangmen area, which occupies 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 on the eponymous Qianmen Street (map), which is full of stores, workshops, and traditional restaurants. This is a pedestrian street, so you can enjoy a leisurely stroll, pick up souvenirs, and stop at a restaurant to indulge in a delicious meal.
FUN FACT: Qianmen Street was known as Zhengyangmen Street during the Ming and Qing dynasties but adopted its present name in 1965. Zhengyangmen literally translates to ‘Front Gate,’ referring to the gate in the Beijing city wall.
Start your day of exploration at the southern end of Qianmen Street by visiting 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 free, but queues can be 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 the Beijing Zoo, the country’s oldest zoo, and the Beijing Aquarium, famous as an inland aquarium.
Situated within walking distance of the Temple of Heaven, this upscale hotel offers comfortable rooms with city views. 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
A conveniently located hotel providing easy access to the subway line, offering a tour desk, a library, and luggage storage
This hotel features a 24-hour gym, a hot spring spa, and elegantly decorated rooms, situated near many major attractions
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 Center 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)
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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 nearby spots worth exploring, such as Chaoyang Park (map).
Check out some of the best hotels in Beijing featured below:
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, work out in the gym, and relax in the spa center. Plus, you can choose from 3 on-site dining options and enjoy free parking.
Other accommodation options in Sanlitun
Guests at the Holiday Inn Express will enjoy modern rooms, a rich breakfast buffet, and fresh coffee in the lobby
Each of the rooms at this hotel features a large double bed, a TV with satellite channels, and a kitchen
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, so it’ll be perfect for travelers who want 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., 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 to Old Beijing, I have to tell you – there’s no place like Gulou!
The neighborhood is also conveniently located for exploring other famous landmarks such as Prince Gong Mansion (map), the Lama Temple (map), and the Beijing Temple of Confucius (map).
If you are looking to shop or craving traditional food, head to Nanluoguxiang (map), a pedestrian street known as the most famous part of the Hutongs. This street will provide a glimpse into inner-city life, but it 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:
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 swim in the indoor pool, order room service, and use the laundry and dry cleaning services.
Other accommodation options in Gulou
This 4-star hotel is located in a traditional old residence and offers a nice courtyard and comfortable rooms
A hotel situated in a historic Beijing hutong, offering rooms decorated in traditional Chinese style and various day tours
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 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, since it’s 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 in the Hall of Supreme Harmony, and admire the Palace of Earthly Tranquility and 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 and many other important landmarks, including the Great Wall of China, the Lama Temple, and many, many others.
Aside from being home to the majority of the city’s main landmarks, Dongcheng is also dotted 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.
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 a variety of activities.
Other accommodation options in Dongcheng District
Just a short walk away from the subway station, this hotel has air-conditioned rooms with an in-room safe
Featuring a restaurant and a tea bar, the hotel offers rooms with en suite bathrooms, plus free Wi-Fi and parking
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
| 👑 Luxury price: | US$250 |
| 💵 Mid-range hotel: | US$120 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | US$70 |
| 📍 Best Area: | Wangfujing |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Mandarin Oriental Wangfujing |
| 🧳 Best mid-range hotel: | Sunworld Hotel |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Jinjiang Inn |
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 to stay close to Beijing Capital International Airport. Being such a large flight hub, 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 ($$$): Cordis By Langham Hospitality – located just next to Beijing Airport, this is one of the best luxury hotels, with a free airport shuttle, spacious rooms with balconies, a fully equipped fitness center, a spa and wellness center, plus a nice bar.
- Mid-range ($$): Atour Hotel – this comfortable hotel offers free airport shuttle service and spacious rooms with private bathrooms, air conditioning, and a flat-screen TV.
- Budget ($): Ramada by Wyndham – an affordable hotel offering free 24-hour airport pick-up and drop-off, 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 for its convenient location near the city center, extensive shopping options, and amazing hotels such as the Mandarin Oriental Wangfujing and the Sunworld Hotel.
⏳ How many days do you need in Beijing?
I recommend you stay in Beijing for at least 4 to 5 days. It is China’s second-largest city after all! This will give you enough time to experience the culture and see the main landmarks.
🤔 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 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?
The top spots for staying in Qianmen are the upscale hotel New World Beijing and the more affordable Nostalgia Hotel and Beijing XinQiao Hotel.
🇨🇳 Where to stay in Beijing to visit the Great Wall of China?
The Dongzhimen area is a great choice if you’re planning to take a bus or arrange a tour of the Great Wall of China. Some of the top hotels in this area are Beijing Hotel NUO and the Howard Johnson Paragon Hotel.
👨👩👦👦 What are the best hotels for families in Beijing?
The best area to stay in Beijing with family is Qianmen, and the best family-friendly hotels are New World Beijing and Nostalgia Hotel.
🚶🏽 Is Beijing a walkable city?
Beijing is too large to explore entirely on foot, but individual areas like Wangfujing, Qianmen, and Gulou are very walkable. For longer trips, use the extensive, cheap subway or ride-hailing apps like Didi. Note that most apps and payments in China run through Alipay or WeChat Pay, so set one up before you arrive.
📅 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.
🛂 Do you need a visa to visit Beijing in 2026?
Many travelers can use China’s visa-free transit (up to 240 hours / 10 days) when flying through Beijing to a third country, and several nationalities have short visa-free entry. Rules change often, so check the latest China visa policy for your passport before booking.
✈️ How do you get from Beijing’s airports to the city center?
From Beijing Capital Airport (PEK) the Capital Airport Express subway reaches Dongzhimen in about 25 to 30 minutes for a flat CNY 25, with shuttle buses as a backup. From Daxing (PKX), the Daxing Airport Express links to the subway in around 20 minutes. Didi and metered taxis are easy alternatives once you have an app and Alipay set up.
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 in Beijing to stay 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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