Beijing is a dynamic city, a place strung between its glorious ancient history, its rather dramatic recent history and its ever-changing place in the modern world. And now is a great time to visit. There’s a sense of momentum and reinvention, with skyscrapers designed by world-renowned architects springing up close to ancient temples, palaces and brutalist Communist monuments, and the hútòngs, with their seemingly bottomless history of commerce and hospitality, are getting a hip makeover.

Many of our Guru’s recommendations for the best places to stay in Beijing were built around the 2008 Olympics, when hundreds of modern rooms went up around the city. These properties have since had to extend their appeal to compete, and some of them have done some very creative things. Our Guru’s recommendations for the best places to stay in Beijing are all well located, but they’re spread across the city, with some in the Central Business District, some in the shopping district and some closer to the historic sights.

You’ll certainly be kept busy by all that there is to do, so get the accommodation planning out of the way now as the best places to stay in Beijing get quickly booked up.

Where to stay

• Donghuamen Residential District is known for its bustling night market that's an absolute must-visit for all foodies.
• Chaoyang District is home to the city's CBD, as well as featuring the Silk Street Mall and the expansive Sun Park which even has a man-made beach.
• Sanlitun is the ideal place for younger visitors to stay: being known for its wonderful nightlife and great restaurants.

What not to miss

• Beijing is home to no less than six World Heritage Sites: the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace, Tiananmen Square, Mao’s Mausoleum, the Temple of Heaven, the Peking Man Site and The Great Wall of China.
• The city is home to some fabulous markets: Panjiayuan Antique Market, Wangfujing Street, Pearl Market and Ditan Temple Fair.
• There are also a number of impressive religious sites. Head along to the Lama Temple, Hall of Prayer for Good Harvest, or the Hall of Great Harmony.

The best places to stay in Beijing

For Donghuamen Residential District

• In the heart of the shopping district, The Peninsula is a vast five-star property with 525 elegant, spacious rooms and great views of the city. There are free bikes, a gastronomic restaurant and an excellent spa.

For Chaoyang District

• The Rosewood is a luxurious, 282-room hotel in Beijing’s Central Business District. The rooms are generous in size and the decor is ‘design chic’ with clean lines and modern art. There’s also a great spa and several excellent restaurants.

For Sanlitun

• Opposite House is an impressive contemporary hotel in the swanky ‘Village at Sanlitun’ area. There are 99 rooms with plenty of glass and light wood. There are two restaurants and both are worthy of a visit, and you’re quite close to the Forbidden City.

For an apartment or villa

If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• International visitors can fly into the Beijing Capital International Airport before taking the Airport Express Train into the centre of town.
• You're best off visiting in the shoulder season months: April and May, and September and October. The winters are extremely cold and the summers are hot and humid.
• If you'd like to explore the surrounding area then consider hiring a car with Rentalcars.

Still not sure?

• Browse through our entire list of the best places to stay in Beijing.
• Expand your search to include all our recommendations in China.
• Alternatively, feel free to contact one of our friendly gurus for advice.