Beijing

Capital of one of the world's most dynamic countries, Beijing reflects the changes that China is currently undergoing. In a city where the past is being swept away to make way for the future, development is taking place at a staggering pace. However beside the modern skyscrapers you can still find the hutongs, remnants of a by-gone era, which give a glimpse into how Beijing's citizens used to live. Most famously Beijing offers visitors access to some of China's most amazing landmarks: the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and the Temple of Heaven all reside within the old city walls and just outside the city's perimeter lies the enormous Great Wall, one of the wonders of the world and an enduring reminder of the power of China's imperial era. An absolute must for any first time visitor to China.

Beijing has much to offer as a short break destination in its own right and we have outlined a few of our recommended highlights below.

10 things to do in Beijing

1. Walk the Great Wall of China
2. Visit the Forbidden City
3. Take a bicycle and explore the twisting alleyways of the hutongs
4. Feast on Peking duck
5. Have a night at the Beijing Opera
6. Sharpen your haggling skills at the Silk Market
7. See the locals practising their dance moves at Beihai Park
8. Stroll in the Summer Palace’s gardens
9. Watch the flag raising ceremony in Tiananmen Square
10. Discover a lesser-known temple, such as the Taoist Dongyue Temple