Best Time To Visit

Most of Beijing's attractions feature timeless architecture and rich cultural heritage, making them enjoyable year-round. However, the outdoor temperatures are most pleasant in spring and autumn, as winter can be too cold and summer too hot for comfort. Additionally, the city’s parks and gardens are particularly beautiful during these seasons, with blossoming flowers in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. It's best to avoid Chinese public holidays, especially from October 1st to 7th, when the city is crowded with local tourists.

Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)

The Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) is located approximately 32 kilometres northeast of Beijing's city centre, this is the busiest airport in Asia and one of the busiest in the world. It has three terminals, with Terminal 3 being the primary terminal for international flights. The airport offers extensive facilities and services, making it a major hub for both domestic and international travel. The Airport Express Train is the fastest and most convenient option, connecting Terminal 3 and Terminal 2 to Dongzhimen Station in downtown Beijing in about 20 minutes. Taxis offer a more direct route, taking 45 minutes to an hour depending on traffic. For a budget-friendly choice, the Airport Shuttle Bus provides multiple routes to various parts of the city, taking about an hour.

• Web:

  en.bcia.com.cn

Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX)

The Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX), opened in September 2019, is located about 46 kilometres south of Beijing. It is known for its impressive design and state-of-the-art facilities, including the world's largest single-building airport terminal. The airport is expected to handle 100 million passengers annually by 2025, making it one of the busiest airports globally. The Daxing Airport Express train links the airport to Caoqiao Station on Line 10 of the Beijing Subway in about 20 minutes. Another efficient option is the Beijing–Xiong'an Intercity Railway, which connects the airport to Beijing West Railway Station in approximately 30 minutes. Taxis are also available, taking about an hour to reach the city centre. Alternatively, the Airport Shuttle Bus offers several routes to different parts of the city, taking about 1.5 hours.

• Web:

  daxing-pkx-airport.com

• More info:

  Also known as Beijing New Airport.

Public Transport

The subway is the best way to move around the city and avoid traffic jams in Beijing. Currently, there are 24 lines in operation. Line 1, Line 2 and 4 run through the centre of Beijing and cover most of the attractions. The subway runs from 5am to 11pm daily. Subway stations are marked by navy blue signs with a 'D' (for Ditie or subway) in a circle. Route signs are bilingual. Bus service is another option to travel around the city. With more than 1,600 routes, the buses take you through both the downtown and suburbs. Buses generally run from 5am to 11:30pm. Applications like 'Beijing Public Transport' (北京公交) or 'Ruubypay' (亿通行) will help you pick the best route. You can pay with cash, coins and notes by putting the exact amount into the fare box on the bus, or pay with a transportation card or applications. For the card, you need to tap both on and off on the bus. The transportation card in Beijing is called Yikatong, and using it offers travel discounts. You can purchase and top up a Yikatong card at the service centre in the subway stations. At major stations, you can refund the card as long as you have your receipt. You can also top up the card using the machines at stations.

• Web:

  www.travelchinaguide.com/cityguides/beijing/transportation

Taxi

Taxis are the default mode of transportation for many foreigners in Beijing. Have your destination written down in Chinese and hail a cab. Make sure there is a taximeter and it starts at its initial point. You can also use the popular ride hailing app Didi if you have a Chinese phone number and internet access. Beijing taxi drivers may speak only a little English. Expect to get your change; tipping is discouraged. Taxi from the airport to the city centre takes approximately 50 minutes, depending on the traffic. Ask for your receipt by saying "Fa-piao / 发票".

• Web:

  english.visitbeijing.com.cn/article/47OLiWSO3PP

Electricity

In Mainland China, the standard power plugs and sockets are Type A, Type C, and Type I. The voltage is 220V, and the frequency is 50Hz. Type A plugs have two flat parallel pins, Type C plugs have two round pins, and Type I plugs have three flat pins in a triangular pattern. It's advisable to carry a universal adapter if you plan to use devices with different plug types. Make sure your devices are compatible with the 220V voltage to avoid any electrical issues.