🇨🇳 Beijing Inbound Travel FAQ (2025 Edition)
Perfect for first-time international visitors planning a Beijing tour.
1. Do I need a visa to visit Beijing?
Most travelers need a visa, but Beijing now offers 144-hour visa-free transit for many nationalities. This allows you to stay in Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei for up to 6 days without a visa, as long as you meet the transit requirements.
2. Is Beijing safe for foreign tourists?
Yes. Beijing is one of the safest major cities in the world. Violent crime is extremely rare. As long as you avoid unlicensed taxis and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places, you will be perfectly fine.
3. How can I avoid crowds in Beijing?
Avoid Chinese public holidays, student summer vacation, and major weekends. Start early in the morning, follow local tour advice, and choose less crowded Great Wall sections such as Jinshanling or Mutianyu on weekdays.
4. Is English widely spoken in Beijing?
Not everywhere. Hotel staff and airport staff speak English, but many taxi drivers and restaurant workers do not. This is why joining a local tour or hiring an English-speaking guide helps a lot.
5. What is the best time of year to visit Beijing?
The best months are:
March – early June
September – November
Avoid Chinese New Year, Golden Week, and July–August (peak crowd season).
6. Which Great Wall section should I visit?
Mutianyu: Best for families, fewer crowds, round-trip cable car
Badaling: Most famous but very crowded
Jinshanling: Best for hiking and photography
Simatai: Night tour available
7. Do I need to book Forbidden City tickets in advance?
YES. Tickets often sell out. Booking 3–7 days early is recommended. There is no walk-in ticket option.
8. How far is the airport from the city center?
Beijing Capital Airport (PEK) is about 40–60 minutes by car depending on traffic. Beijing Daxing Airport (PKX) is 45–70 minutes away.
9. How do I pay for things in Beijing?
You can use:
WeChat Pay International
Alipay International
Credit cards in hotels
Cash (RMB)
Many small shops no longer take credit cards, so a mobile payment app helps.
10. Can foreign tourists use public transportation easily?
Yes. The subway system is clean, affordable, and covers most attractions. Signs are in English. Taxis are also easy to find, but always choose official taxi lines or Didi (China’s Uber).
11. What should I wear when visiting religious sites?
Normal clothing is fine. No strict dress code. However, modest outfits are recommended at temples.
12. Can I drink tap water in Beijing?
No. Always drink bottled water. Hotels provide kettle-boiled water.
13. Is the air pollution really bad?
Air quality has improved a lot in recent years. On some days, the sky is perfectly clear. During poor air days, wearing a mask is recommended.
14. Should I hire a private driver or join a group tour?
If you want flexibility and comfort, a private tour is the best option. If you want to avoid crowds and maximize your time, a local guide is extremely helpful.
15. Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. It is recommended for medical emergencies or unexpected changes.
16. Are vegetarian or halal foods available?
Yes. Beijing has many vegetarian restaurants and halal-certified options, especially around Niujie (Ox Street).
17. How much does a typical Beijing one-day tour cost?
Private tours usually range from USD 120–350 depending on group size, destinations, and vehicle type.
18. How can I stay connected online during my trip?
You may need a VPN to access Western websites. Most hotels provide Wi-Fi. You can buy a local SIM card or use eSIM for mobile data.
19. How many days do I need in Beijing?
3–4 days is ideal for a first visit. Adding an extra day allows for more relaxed sightseeing.
20. How do I book a private Beijing tour with you?
You can contact us directly:
WhatsApp:+86 15810701565
Email: contact@holiday-beijing.com
Or send us a message on our website
We offer airport pickup, private drivers, English-speaking guides, and tailor-made tour plans.