Choosing the best area to stay in Beijing can be a bit overwhelming, especially given the city’s immense size and the sheer number of districts. From bustling shopping streets to peaceful traditional hutongs, each part of the city offers a different experience for travelers. In this guide, we’ll explore the top eight areas in Beijing, delving deep into their unique vibes, attractions, and accommodation options to help you decide where to stay.
Beijing is a vast city, not just in population but also in geography. It is made up of numerous neighborhoods that offer varying experiences—from historical landmarks and traditional Chinese culture to modern shopping districts and lively nightlife scenes. When planning your stay, it’s important to keep in mind that while areas might look close on the map, the distances between them are often significant. Public transportation, particularly the metro, is essential to getting around this sprawling metropolis.
Most tourists gravitate toward a handful of key neighborhoods. These areas are well-connected by public transportation, but they are spread out, meaning each one provides a very distinct experience. If you prioritize being close to Beijing’s top tourist attractions, areas like Qianmen, Wangfujing, Xidan, or Houhai might be the best choices. On the other hand, if nightlife and modern amenities are what you’re after, then Sanlitun should be on your radar.
Personally, Sanlitun stands out as my favorite area in Beijing. It’s where I stayed during my last trip, and I plan to stay there again on future visits. It has a great mix of restaurants, bars, and vibrant nightlife, making it the perfect spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing. But don’t just take my word for it—let’s break down each area so you can decide which one suits your travel style best.
One thing you won’t need to worry about too much in Beijing is your budget. Despite being a global capital, Beijing is relatively affordable compared to cities in Europe or North America. The city offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxurious 5-star hotels, ensuring that travelers with any budget will find a place to stay.
Now, let’s explore the best areas in Beijing for your stay, analyzing what each has to offer in terms of attractions, atmosphere, and accommodation options.
1. Wangfujing: Ideal for First-Time Visitors
Wangfujing, located in the heart of Dongcheng District, is undoubtedly one of Beijing’s most famous and popular areas for tourists. This long and bustling street is renowned for its shopping, making it the commercial heart of the city. If it’s your first time in Beijing, Wangfujing offers the perfect introduction to the city’s dynamic blend of old and new.
One of Wangfujing’s biggest draws is its array of shopping opportunities. The area is home to large shopping centers such as the Beijing APM Shopping Mall and the impressive Oriental Plaza. These malls house a mix of local boutiques, international brands, and even the massive Wangfujing Bookstore, the largest bookstore in Beijing. In addition to the big-name retailers, the area is also known for its night market, where adventurous foodies can sample exotic delicacies like starfish, scorpions, and even snakes. It’s not for the faint of heart, but it’s an experience you’ll never forget.
Wangfujing is more than just shopping, though. The area is close to several major tourist attractions, including Jingshan Park, Tian’anmen Square, and the Forbidden City. You’ll also find some more unusual spots, like the Christian Church of St. Joseph, a beautiful structure that feels out of place in the middle of Beijing but adds to the area’s eclectic charm.
In terms of transportation, Wangfujing is very well connected. The southern part of the pedestrian street has a metro station on Line 1, and the area is also served by numerous bus lines, making it easy to get around the city from here.
Because of its central location and popularity with tourists, hotel prices in Wangfujing tend to be a bit higher than in other parts of Beijing. However, you’ll still find that prices are relatively affordable compared to Western cities. You can book a 4-star hotel for around €100 per night, while 5-star accommodations go for about €150 per night. Budget options are more limited in this area, but if location is your priority, Wangfujing is well worth the investment.
2. Qianmen: Historic Charm and Central Location
Just south of Tian’anmen Square lies Qianmen, one of the most historic and central neighborhoods in Beijing. This area is steeped in history, and walking through Qianmen feels like stepping back in time to the heart of old Beijing. The district is a mix of traditional architecture and modern attractions, making it an ideal spot for sightseeing.
Qianmen is known for its historic gate, an architectural masterpiece dating back to the 15th century. The gate serves as the entrance to Qianmen Street, which has been a commercial hub for over 500 years. Today, the street is lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it one of the best places in the city to enjoy some shopping or grab a bite to eat.
Qianmen is close to several of Beijing’s top tourist destinations, including Tian’anmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven. It’s also home to Dashilan Street, a bustling area known for its traditional oriental shops and restaurants where you can try local specialties like stewed liver. The narrow hutongs (alleys) in this area are filled with character and provide a glimpse into Beijing’s more traditional way of life.
Despite its historic charm, Qianmen is well-connected by modern public transportation. The area is served by metro lines 2 and 7, as well as numerous bus lines, making it easy to reach other parts of the city from here.
Qianmen is a fantastic choice for travelers who want to be close to Beijing’s main attractions while also enjoying a taste of the city’s rich history. The area has a range of accommodations to suit different budgets, although the hotel offerings are not as vast as in some other parts of the city. You’ll find the highest concentration of hotels around Qianmen Square, with options ranging from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels.
3. Houhai/Nanluoguxiang: Traditional Beijing with a Lively Twist
If you want to experience a more traditional side of Beijing while still enjoying plenty of modern amenities, Houhai and Nanluoguxiang are two neighborhoods you should definitely consider. These adjacent areas offer a charming mix of old-world Beijing and contemporary culture, making them a great choice for travelers who want to dive into the city’s past without sacrificing comfort.
Houhai is known for its picturesque lakes, Houhai and Qianhai, which are surrounded by bars, cafes, and restaurants. The area is especially lively in the evenings, with locals and tourists alike flocking to the lakeside for a drink or a meal. If you’re looking for a place with a great atmosphere where you can enjoy a peaceful stroll during the day and a vibrant nightlife scene in the evening, Houhai is an excellent choice.
Nanluoguxiang, meanwhile, is famous for its traditional hutongs, narrow alleyways lined with old-style courtyard houses. These hutongs have been preserved and are now home to boutique shops, cafes, and art galleries. It’s a fascinating area to explore on foot, and it offers a more intimate glimpse into Beijing’s history compared to the grand palaces and temples of other areas.
In terms of attractions, Houhai and Nanluoguxiang are home to several important landmarks, including the Drum and Bell Towers and the former residences of prominent historical figures like Prince Kung and Soong Ching-ling. These neighborhoods are also well-connected by public transportation, with metro line 8 serving the area.
Accommodation in Houhai and Nanluoguxiang is diverse, ranging from modern hotels to more traditional guesthouses located within the hutongs themselves. Staying in one of these guesthouses is a unique experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture. Whether you prefer a quiet spot in a historic hutong or a lively location near the lakes, you’ll find plenty of options in these neighborhoods.
4. Xidan: A Shopper’s Delight in the Heart of the City
For those who love to shop, Xidan is a dream come true. Located in the Xicheng District, Xidan is one of the busiest commercial areas in Beijing, attracting both locals and tourists with its wide array of shopping centers, boutiques, and department stores. If you enjoy being in the middle of the action, with shopping and dining options at your fingertips, Xidan is a great place to stay.
The main attraction in Xidan is Xidan Street, which is lined with countless shops and malls. Whether you’re looking for international brands, local fashion, or unique souvenirs, you’ll find it all here. Xidan is also home to several cultural landmarks, including the Xishiku Cathedral and the nearby Northern Sea lakes, which offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the shopping district.
Xidan is well-connected to the rest of Beijing, with the Xidan metro station serving lines 1 and 4. The area is also just a short distance from some of Beijing’s top attractions, including Tian’anmen Square and the Forbidden City, making it a convenient base for sightseeing.
In terms of accommodation, Xidan offers a variety of options, from luxury hotels to more affordable guesthouses. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want to stay in a central location with plenty of shopping and dining options while still being close to the city’s main attractions.
5. Sanlitun: The Best Spot for Nightlife and Dining
If you’re looking for a modern, lively area with a great selection of restaurants, bars, and nightlife, Sanlitun should be at the top of your list. Located in the Chaoyang District, east of Beijing’s city center, Sanlitun is one of the most vibrant and cosmopolitan areas in the city.
Sanlitun is home to many of Beijing’s embassies, which gives the area a distinctly international feel. The streets are lined with trendy cafes, cocktail bars, and restaurants serving cuisine from all over the world. It’s also a great place for shopping, with a mix of high-end boutiques and more affordable stores.
One of the main attractions in Sanlitun is the Yashow Market, one of the city’s largest imitation markets, where you can find a wide range of goods at bargain prices. But what really sets Sanlitun apart is its nightlife scene. Sanlitun Bar Street is packed with bars and clubs, making it the go-to spot for partygoers. If you’re in the mood for a night out, you’ll find plenty of options here.
Sanlitun is a bit further from the main tourist attractions, but it’s well-connected to the rest of the city by metro line 10, which stops at Tuanjiehu Station. The area is also close to Chaoyang Park, one of Beijing’s largest green spaces, offering a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Accommodation in Sanlitun is varied, with everything from luxury hotels to more budget-friendly options. Prices are higher here compared to other parts of the city, but the lively atmosphere and convenient location make it a popular choice for travelers.
6. Chaoyang Park: A Green Oasis in the City
If you enjoy being surrounded by greenery and large open spaces, Chaoyang Park is a fantastic place to stay. Located in the Chaoyang District, this area is centered around the sprawling Chaoyang Park, the largest park in Beijing. The park is a haven for nature lovers, with beautiful gardens, swimming pools, an artificial beach, and even a fairground.
Chaoyang Park is also home to the Ecological Valley, a unique area framed by hills that create a special microclimate for the growth of aquatic plants. The park also features a theater that hosts a variety of events throughout the year, making it a lively cultural hub.
While Chaoyang Park is not as centrally located as some of the other areas on this list, it is well-connected by metro line 14, which stops at Chaoyang Gongyuan Station. The area is also close to Sanlitun, so you can easily enjoy the dining and nightlife options there while staying in a quieter, more natural setting.
Accommodation options around Chaoyang Park range from luxury hotels to more affordable options, making it a good choice for travelers who want to enjoy Beijing’s green spaces without sacrificing comfort.
7. Beijing CBD: Exclusive Business District with Luxury Hotels
Beijing’s Central Business District (CBD) is located in the Chaoyang District, east of the city center. This area is the financial heart of Beijing, home to the headquarters of many multinational companies, shopping centers, and modern office buildings. If you’re visiting Beijing on business or simply enjoy staying in a more upscale, modern area, the CBD is an excellent choice.
The skyline of the CBD is dominated by some of Beijing’s most iconic skyscrapers, including the CCTV Building and the World Trade Center Tower III. The area is also filled with restaurants, bars, and cafes that cater to the professionals working in the district.
Despite being a business district, the CBD is well-connected to the rest of the city. Metro lines 1 and 10 stop at Guomao Station, making it easy to reach other parts of Beijing.
As you might expect, accommodation in the CBD tends to be on the pricier side, with luxury hotels dominating the scene. However, there are also some mid-range and budget options available for those who want to stay in this exclusive area without breaking the bank.
8. 798 Art District: A Creative Haven for Art Lovers
If you’re an art enthusiast or simply want to experience a different side of Beijing, the 798 Art District is a must-visit. Located in the Chaoyang District, northwest of the city center, this area is known for its avant-garde art galleries, studios, and design companies.
The 798 Art District is housed in a former industrial complex, and the area has been transformed into a vibrant hub of creativity. Here, you’ll find a mix of contemporary art exhibitions, street art, and quirky shops. It’s a fascinating area to explore, especially if you’re looking for something a little different from the traditional tourist attractions in Beijing.
The 798 Art District is not as centrally located as other areas, but it’s easily accessible by metro line 14, which stops at Wangjing Nan Station. The area has a range of accommodation options, from budget hotels to luxury properties, making it a great choice for travelers who want to experience Beijing’s creative side.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Area for Your Stay in Beijing
Beijing is a city of contrasts, where ancient history meets modern innovation. Each neighborhood offers a unique experience, making it important to choose the right area for your stay based on your preferences.
For first-time visitors, Wangfujing and Qianmen are ideal choices due to their central location and proximity to major attractions. If you’re looking for a more traditional experience, Houhai and Nanluoguxiang offer a charming mix of old and new. Sanlitun is the best spot for those who enjoy nightlife and modern dining, while Chaoyang Park provides a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.
No matter where you choose to stay, Beijing’s diverse neighborhoods ensure that you’ll find a place that suits your travel style and offers a comfortable, memorable experience. Whether you’re exploring ancient temples, shopping in modern malls, or enjoying the city’s vibrant art scene, Beijing has something to offer every traveler.