Holidays in Beijing

Beijing has been at the centre of the Chinese universe for more than a thousand years. However, while the Beijing of the 21st century - a vast megalopolis of eight-lane highways, tower blocks and 22 million people - is a world away from the provincial capital of old, the city's glorious history is never far away. With breathtaking temples, sumptuous palaces and evocative alleyways scattered all around the city, and one of the world's truly astounding sights – the Great Wall – close by; Beijing's history resonates just as triumphantly as its indomitable march toward modernity and prosperity.

Beijing holidays: travel essentials

Late spring and autumn are often the best times to take Beijing holidays as this is when crisp, sunny days are complimented by the leaves turning red and gold. Moreover, travellers visiting at these times will avoid the often overbearing heat of summer and biting winds of winter. Flights to Beijing are plentiful from the UK and take around ten hours from London. Beijing's huge subway system is up there with the best in the world so getting around the city is rarely a problem (although queues can be frequent at some of the busier stations). Beijing is eight hours ahead of the UK (GMT+8).

Beijing holidays: highlights

It is fair to say Beijing has more than it's fair share of 'must-see' sights. First up is the world's largest public square, Tiananmen Square. As well as being impressive in its own right, Tiananmen Square also serves as the entrance to another unmissable sight, the Forbidden City; an immaculate collection of courtyards, halls and gardens that was home to twenty four of China's emperors. The splendidly spiritual and refreshingly serene Temple of Heaven park, located just south of Tiananmen Square, is also a must, as is the unbelievably grandiose Summer Palace on the outskirts of the city.