When choosing the best place to stay in Beijing, your itinerary and the purpose of your travel will help determine the most convenient location for you.
Before we delve into the different districts, it’s useful to understand Beijing’s Ring Roads and map layout.
The Ring Roads
Beijing is structured radially, extending from the center, where the Forbidden City is located, outward to the remote areas where the Great Wall lies.
The Great Wall is isolated from the city’s main attractions. If the highlight of your trip to Beijing is your visit to The Great Wall, then staying within the 3rd Ring Road will be the most convenient for you since tour operators usually pick up tourists around this area.
It is advisable to book a dedicated tour or arrange a private transfer, which will conveniently pick you up from your hotel in the central districts. Try to find tour packages that include hotel pick-up services or tour packages with set meet-up and drop-off locations.
Dongcheng District
Dongcheng District the historical heart of Beijing, housing many of the city’s most famous landmarks. You can find the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Temple of Heaven, and Wangfujing here. This makes Dongcheng the best location for tourists to stay since most of the major attractions are close together and gives you good access to all the important cultural sites and tourist spots.
The proximity of these landmarks makes transportation within the area convenient. I personally stayed in Wangfujing because of the availability of public transportation. There are a lot of hotels to choose from that fit any budget, and the best part is the Wangfujing Walking Street. The malls and shops offer numerous dining, shopping, and entertainment options, that are open until late at night. It’s perfect for grabbing a late-night snack or picking up some cool souvenirs.
Here are some hotel suggestions within Wangfujing Street:
Mid-range: Sunworld Dynasty Hotel
Luxury: Mandarin Oriental Wangfujing
Xicheng District
Xicheng District is known for its traditional Hutongs and cultural landmarks. It’s a quieter area compared to Dongcheng, offering a more relaxed atmosphere while still being close to major attractions like Beihai Park, Shichahai, and Liulichang Culture Street.
Hotel suggestions within the Xicheng District
Mid-range: Grand Mercure Beijing Central
Luxury:
JW Marriott Hotel Beijing Central
Chaoyang District
Beijing is a city of contrast, where traditional sites blend with modern architecture. Chaoyang District, where the central business district (CBD) is located, features towering skyscrapers, upscale shopping malls, luxury hotels, and nightlife. This area showcases modern innovative Chinese architecture that made a buzz.
For those seeking posh hotels and luxury shopping experiences, Chaoyang District is your ideal destination.
Hotel suggestions within Chaoyang District
Luxury: Four Seasons Beijing
Haidian District
Haidian District is where the educational institutions and technological hubs are. It’s a great area for those interested in history, culture, and academia, with beautiful parks. You can find the Summer Palace, Old Summer Palace, Beijing Botanical Garden, Zhongguancun (China’s Silicon Valley), and prestigious universities in here.
Mid-range: Holiday Inn Beijing Haidian
Conclusion
It is easier to find your most ideal accommodation when you know your itinerary and the activities you will do. Whether it’s luxury, convenience, or cultural immersion, you can ensure you will spend your time efficiently in this beautiful city if you when you choose a location that aligns with the purpose of your trip.
Find out the best places to visit in Beijing in this 7-Day Itinerary to Beijing, China.
