Some cities reveal themselves slowly—but Beijing grabs hold of your senses from the moment you land. From ancient hutongs echoing with centuries of stories to futuristic skyscrapers piercing the smoggy skyline, this city is a fascinating blend of old-world soul and modern ambition. Where you stay in Beijing can shape how you experience that contrast.
Each neighborhood in Beijing tells a different version of the city’s story. Whether you're drawn to the historic charm of Dongcheng, the nightlife of Sanlitun, or the business buzz of Chaoyang, choosing the right area can mean the difference between a frustrating commute and a seamless, unforgettable trip.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best neighborhoods in Beijing based on what kind of traveler you are—be it your first time in China, a food lover chasing local eats, or a family looking for convenience. Let’s find out where to stay in Beijing.
Dongcheng – Where Beijing’s Past Meets Your Present
If you want to feel Beijing rather than just see it, Dongcheng is the place. Wandering its maze of hutongs is like stepping back in time—then you turn a corner and stumble upon a sleek cocktail bar or a trendy boutique hotel. Home to the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and some of the city’s best preserved old neighborhoods, Dongcheng blends imperial history with contemporary culture in a way no other district does.
Who Should Stay in Dongcheng?
✔ First-time visitors – You’re right in the heart of historic Beijing, surrounded by major landmarks and must-see attractions.
✔ History buffs – From the Forbidden City to Mao’s mausoleum, this district is a dream for anyone fascinated by China’s dynastic past.
✔ Culture lovers – Dongcheng is home to traditional tea houses, Peking opera theatres, and centuries-old alleyways.
✔ Families – Easy access to parks and museums makes it great for those traveling with kids.
❌ Nightlife chasers – While there are some bars, you’ll find the real party scene in places like Sanlitun.
Best Hotels in Dongcheng
Luxury: The Peninsula Beijing – Opulent suites and an unbeatable location just a short walk from Wangfujing.
Mid-Range: Hotel Kapok – Forbidden City – Chic, modern design right next to the palace walls.
Budget: Yitingzhenshe Hotel (Beijing Qianmen) – Cozy, backpacker-friendly and walking distance to Qianmen Street.
What to Do in Dongcheng
Best things to do in Dongcheng include:
- 🏯 The Forbidden City – Beijing’s crown jewel and former imperial palace.
- 🛍️ Wangfujing Street – Great for shopping and sampling unusual street food (fried scorpions, anyone?).
- 🏮 Hutong Tours – Take a guided rickshaw ride or explore on foot through traditional alleys.
- 🎭 Lao She Teahouse – A classic place for Peking opera, storytelling, and a proper cup of Chinese tea.
Food & Dining in Dongcheng
If you’re a foodie, Dongcheng has layers. You’ll find everything from time-honored dumpling houses to Instagrammable modern bistros.
- 🥟 Try Baoyuan Dumpling House for colorful jiaozi.
- 🦆 Craving Peking Duck? Da Dong Roast Duck in Dongcheng is iconic.
- 🏮 Ghost Street (Guijie) is lined with late-night hot pot spots—perfect for a spicy food fix after sightseeing.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Nearest Subway Stations: Dongsi (Line 5), Wangfujing (Line 1), and Qianmen (Line 2).
🚕 From Beijing Capital Airport: ~45 mins by taxi (Estimated fare: ~CNY 100 / PHP 800).
Well connected by metro and buses—you can get to just about anywhere in Beijing without hassle.
Pros & Cons of Staying in Dongcheng
✅ Pros:
✔ Walking distance to top attractions like Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City
✔ Strong historical and cultural character
✔ Plenty of local eats and tea houses
❌ Cons:
✖ Can get crowded with tourists, especially around the major landmarks
✖ Nightlife is mellow—bars close early
✖ Hutong guesthouses may lack modern amenities
Chaoyang – Beijing’s Modern Powerhouse
Chaoyang is where business suits meet cocktail culture. Home to embassies, multinational HQs, art districts, and high-end malls, this massive district is the city’s economic and diplomatic heart. It’s also where you’ll find some of Beijing’s most upscale bars, hotels, and expat-friendly zones.
Who Should Stay in Chaoyang?
✔ Business travelers – Close to the CBD, convention centers, and major embassies.
✔ Nightlife lovers – Sanlitun’s bars, clubs, and rooftop lounges are legendary.
✔ Luxury seekers – World-class hotels and shopping at your doorstep.
✔ Long-term visitors or expats – International schools, services, and groceries are here.
❌ Budget travelers – Accommodations here tend to be pricey.
❌ Culture-first travelers – Fewer traditional sights compared to older districts.
Best Hotels in Chaoyang
Luxury: NUO Hotel Beijing – Modern Chinese elegance with an artistic flair.
Mid-Range: Holiday Inn Express Beijing Dongzhimen – Reliable comfort in a prime location.
Budget: Beijing Youth Hotel – Decent dorms and private rooms near Sanlitun.
What to Do in Chaoyang
Top attractions near Chaoyang include:
- 🖼️ 798 Art District – Contemporary art in reimagined factory spaces.
- 🍸 Sanlitun Bar Street – Iconic nightlife strip for drinks, dancing, and people-watching.
- 🛍️ China World Mall – Luxury shopping in the CBD.
- 🌳 Chaoyang Park – Perfect for morning jogs or a relaxed stroll.
Food & Dining in Chaoyang
This district is an international food haven.
- 🍣 Hatsune – Famous for its Californian-style sushi.
- 🥘 Middle 8th – Known for spicy Yunnan cuisine.
- 🍔 Tons of Western chains and upscale fusion spots in Sanlitun and the CBD.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Nearest Subway Stations: Dongzhimen, Tuanjiehu, and Guomao (Lines 2, 10, 1, and Airport Express).
🚕 From Beijing Capital Airport: ~30 mins via Airport Express (Dongzhimen) or 40 mins by taxi (~CNY 80 / PHP 640).
Well connected and foreigner-friendly with plenty of English signage.
Pros & Cons of Staying in Chaoyang
✅ Pros:
✔ Trendy, modern vibe with upscale amenities
✔ Great nightlife and international restaurants
✔ Easy access to the airport and business hubs
❌ Cons:
✖ Expensive accommodations
✖ Not many traditional tourist attractions
✖ Can feel more “global city” than “authentic Beijing”
Xicheng – Where Old Beijing Lives On
Wander through Xicheng and you’ll feel the pulse of traditional Beijing—hutongs, teahouses, and hidden courtyards that whisper stories of dynasties past. It’s home to locals, scholars, and old-school charm, making it perfect if you want to stay somewhere that still feels deeply authentic.
Who Should Stay in Xicheng?
✔ Culture lovers – Explore historic sites and live like a local in hutongs.
✔ Families – Peaceful parks, museums, and family-run eateries abound.
✔ Foodies – Some of Beijing’s most traditional eats are tucked into these lanes.
❌ Party seekers – Quiet at night, limited bar scene.
❌ Business travelers – Far from the commercial hubs.
Best Hotels in Xicheng
Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton Beijing Financial Street – Elegance near cultural landmarks.
Mid-Range: Qian Na HOTFL – Stay in a restored hutong home.
Budget: Ibis Hotel – Classic vibes, great for backpackers.
What to Do in Xicheng
Best things to do in Xicheng:
- 🛕 Beihai Park – Serene lakeside gardens with centuries of imperial history.
- 🎭 Mei Lanfang Memorial Hall – Tribute to a Peking Opera legend.
- ☕ Teahouses near Huguosi Street – Sip tea and watch a traditional show.
Food & Dining in Xicheng
This is dumpling and noodle heaven.
- 🥟 Huguosi Snacks – Local chain for Beijing-style street food.
- 🍜 Hidden noodle shops – Especially around Xinjiekou and Ping’anli.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Nearest Subway: Xidan, Ping’anli, Fuchengmen (Lines 1, 4, and 6).
🚕 From Capital Airport: ~50 mins by taxi (CNY 100 / PHP 800).
Well-connected via subway, though traffic can be slow during rush hours.
Pros & Cons of Staying in Xicheng
✅ Pros:
✔ Deeply local and cultural environment
✔ Access to hutongs and historic parks
✔ Less touristy, more authentic
❌ Cons:
✖ Limited nightlife
✖ Not ideal for first-time visitors who want to stay near top attractions
✖ Fewer luxury hotel options
Haidian – The Brainy Side of Beijing
This district is home to top universities like Peking and Tsinghua, earning its title as the “intellectual hub” of China. It’s spacious, green, and quieter—think students, professors, and science museums over crowds and clubs.
Who Should Stay in Haidian?
✔ Academics & long-stay travelers – Close to major universities.
✔ Tech/business visitors – Zhongguancun is Beijing’s “Silicon Valley.”
✔ Nature lovers – Scenic lakes and gardens offer a breath of fresh air.
❌ Short-term tourists – Long travel time to city center and attractions.
Best Hotels in Haidian
Luxury: Shangri-La Beijing – Great business facilities and skyline views.
Mid-Range: Holiday Inn Beijing Haidian – Solid option near Tsinghua.
Budget: Peking Uni Youth Hostel – Clean, convenient for students and researchers.
What to Do in Haidian
Top attractions in Haidian:
- 🏯 Summer Palace – A must-see for gardens, lakes, and palaces.
- 🧠 Beijing Planetarium – Fun for kids and science fans.
- 📚 Wudaokou – Known for its university crowd and casual eateries.
Food & Dining in Haidian
It’s student-budget friendly.
- 🍜 Yoshinoya, dumpling chains, and dozens of spicy Sichuan diners.
- 🍰 Trendy cafés near universities serve affordable fusion menus.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Nearest Subway: Wudaokou, Haidian Huangzhuang (Lines 4, 13).
🚕 From Capital Airport: ~45 mins by taxi (CNY 90 / PHP 720).
Further out, but fine if you're planning to stay a while.
Pros & Cons of Staying in Haidian
✅ Pros:
✔ Peaceful, leafy, and academic vibe
✔ Close to Summer Palace
✔ Budget-friendly eats
❌ Cons:
✖ Far from major tourist areas
✖ Not much nightlife
✖ Limited English signage
Fengtai – Best for Budget Stays & Local Life
Fengtai isn’t flashy, but that’s what gives it charm—it’s where real Beijing life happens. A bit off the beaten path, it’s ideal if you’re looking for authentic markets, local food, and cheap places to stay without the tourist markup.
Who Should Stay in Fengtai?
✔ Budget travelers – Affordable hotels and restaurants.
✔ Long-stay visitors – More residential, with everything you need nearby.
✔ Off-the-beaten-path explorers – Great local parks and markets.
❌ First-time tourists – It’s far from major attractions.
❌ Nightlife seekers – Limited after-dark options.
Best Hotels in Fengtai
Luxury: Wanda Realm Beijing – Polished and spacious, good for business or families.
Mid-Range: Jinjiang Inn Select – Reliable, clean, and close to local eateries.
Budget: 7 Days Inn Beijing South Railway Station – Super affordable, basic rooms.
What to Do in Fengtai
Top attractions in Fengtai:
- 🌳 Beijing Garden Expo Park – Huge and relaxing with landscaped gardens.
- 🛍️ Fengtai Market – Try local snacks and bargain hunting.
- 🏞️ Lugou Bridge (Marco Polo Bridge) – A historical site rarely crowded.
Food & Dining in Fengtai
A local food paradise—especially for noodle lovers.
- 🍲 Old-school Beijing hotpot shops in the neighborhood.
- 🥟 Great dumplings near the Beijing South Railway Station area.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Nearest Subway: Fengtai Science Park, Dabaotai (Lines 9, 14).
🚕 From Capital Airport: ~60 mins by taxi (CNY 120 / PHP 960).
Convenient by subway but takes time to reach downtown.
Pros & Cons of Staying in Fengtai
✅ Pros:
✔ Cheaper stays and local vibe
✔ Big parks and quiet neighborhoods
✔ Less touristy
❌ Cons:
✖ Long travel to central Beijing
✖ Few major attractions
✖ Sparse nightlife
Shunyi – Suburban Calm Near the Airport
If you prefer a quieter, suburban vibe—and being close to the airport—Shunyi is your place. It’s known for its expat communities, international schools, and spacious homes, making it perfect for families or long-stay travelers.
Who Should Stay in Shunyi?
✔ Families & long-term visitors – Green space, international schools.
✔ Business travelers – Convenient airport access.
✔ Expats – Many live here for its peaceful vibe.
❌ Short-term tourists – Far from central attractions.
❌ Party-goers – It’s quiet and residential.
Best Hotels in Shunyi
Luxury: Hilton Beijing Capital Airport – Perfect for layovers or early flights.
Mid-Range: Cordis Beijing Capital Airport – Comfortable and stylish.
Budget: Atour Hotel Shunyi – Good value, clean, and near the metro.
What to Do in Shunyi
Best things to do in Shunyi:
- 🌾 Beijing Chaoyang Country Park – Great for picnics and walks.
- 🛍️ Euro Plaza Mall – Popular with expats.
- 🎡 Beijing International Flower Port – Seasonal flower exhibitions.
Food & Dining in Shunyi
A mix of local and international—great for picky eaters.
- 🍕 International restaurants in expat zones like Pinnacle Plaza.
- 🥢 Local BBQ joints and dumpling shops in residential blocks.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Nearest Subway: Shunyi Station (Line 15).
🚕 From Capital Airport: ~15–20 mins by taxi (CNY 40 / PHP 320).
Great airport access, but long commute to city center.
Pros & Cons of Staying in Shunyi
✅ Pros:
✔ Quiet, green, and family-friendly
✔ Close to the airport
✔ Comfortable for long stays
❌ Cons:
✖ Far from tourist attractions
✖ Not ideal for nightlife or short trips
✖ Less cultural charm
Tongzhou – Beijing’s Up-and-Coming CBD
Tongzhou is Beijing’s designated sub-center and a rising star for residential life and business. With new malls, government buildings, and riverfront developments, it’s ideal if you want modern amenities without central Beijing prices.
Who Should Stay in Tongzhou?
✔ Business travelers – Especially if working in the CBD extension.
✔ Long-term travelers – Affordable rents, modern facilities.
✔ Families – Spacious and safe.
❌ First-timers – Far from must-see sites.
❌ Backpackers – Lacks youth culture and hostel scene.
Best Hotels in Tongzhou
Luxury: Sunrise Kempinski Hotel – Lake views and cutting-edge design.
Mid-Range: Holiday Inn Express Tongzhou – Reliable and well located.
Budget: IU Hotel Beijing Tongzhou Liyuan – Great for commuters on a budget.
What to Do in Tongzhou
Top attractions in Tongzhou:
- 🏞️ Grand Canal Forest Park – Ideal for walks and bike rides.
- 🖼️ Beijing Songzhuang Art District – Contemporary art enclave.
- 🏬 Joy City Mall – Local favorite for shopping and dining.
Food & Dining in Tongzhou
Modern, mall-heavy dining scene.
- 🍣 International food courts and local Sichuan places.
- 🍜 Street food zones outside subway stations in Liyuan.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Nearest Subway: Liyuan, Tongzhou Beiguan (Lines 6, Batong).
🚕 From Capital Airport: ~60 mins by taxi (CNY 120 / PHP 960).
Improving infrastructure, but traffic can be heavy.
Pros & Cons of Staying in Tongzhou
✅ Pros:
✔ New, clean, and modern infrastructure
✔ Less crowded than downtown
✔ Great parks and malls
❌ Cons:
✖ Still under development
✖ Lacks historic character
✖ Long commutes
Shichahai – Hutongs, Lakes, and Classic Beijing Charm
This is the hutong heartland of Beijing—scenic lakes, traditional courtyards, and slow-living energy. If you’re after postcard-perfect old Beijing, Shichahai offers that with a side of café culture and rowing boats.
Who Should Stay in Shichahai?
✔ Couples – Romantic lake views and boutique inns.
✔ Photographers & artists – Beautiful traditional scenery.
✔ Cultural travelers – Deep dive into old Beijing.
❌ Business travelers – Not ideal for work trips.
❌ Luxury seekers – Mostly boutique and budget stays.
Best Hotels in Shichahai
Luxury: The Orchid Hotel – Hidden gem in a hutong with style.
Mid-Range: Shichahai Sandalwood Boutique Hotel – Antique charm, great location.
Budget: Leo Courtyard – Authentic feel at backpacker prices.
What to Do in Shichahai
Top attractions in Shichahai:
- 🛶 Houhai Lake – Rent a boat or walk along the promenade
- 🛕 Prince Gong Mansion – One of Beijing’s best-preserved Qing homes.
- 🛍️ Yandai Xiejie – Trendy alley full of souvenirs and snacks.
Food & Dining in Shichahai
Think fusion of modern cafés and old-school snacks.
- 🍢 Try lamb skewers and yogurt at Beijing Daoxiangcun.
- ☕ Lakeside cafés are great for a chill evening with a view.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Nearest Subway: Shichahai Station (Line 8).
🚕 From Capital Airport: ~45 mins by taxi (CNY 90 / PHP 720).
Easy subway access, walkable to nearby attractions.
Pros & Cons of Staying in Shichahai
✅ Pros:
✔ Old Beijing atmosphere
✔ Romantic lakeside setting
✔ Lots of cafés, boutique shops
❌ Cons:
✖ Not much nightlife after 10PM
✖ Smaller accommodations
✖ Hutongs may be confusing to navigate
Wangfujing – Central, Convenient, and Tourist-Friendly
If you want to be in the thick of it all, Wangfujing is unbeatable. Minutes from the Forbidden City, it’s full of malls, street snacks, and easy subway links. It’s Beijing’s answer to Times Square, with a side of duck.
Who Should Stay in Wangfujing?
✔ First-time visitors – Walking distance to key landmarks.
✔ Shoppers – Famous pedestrian street with top brands.
✔ Families – Central and safe.
❌ Peace-seekers – Constant foot traffic and noise.
❌ Budget travelers – Hotels are pricey here.
Best Hotels in Wangfujing
Luxury: The Peninsula Beijing – Iconic and central with flawless service.
Mid-Range: Novotel Beijing Peace – Comfortable and close to everything.
Budget: Zijingong Hotel – A rare budget find in the area.
What to Do in Wangfujing
Best things to do in Wangfujing:
- 🏛️ Forbidden City – Just a short walk away.
- 🍢 Wangfujing Snack Street – Try scorpions, dumplings, and more.
- 🛍️ Oriental Plaza Mall – Massive and modern.
Food & Dining in Wangfujing
It’s a tourist dining hotspot.
- 🍗 Peking duck at Quanjude.
- 🦐 Try grilled seafood and exotic snacks on the side streets.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Nearest Subway: Wangfujing Station (Line 1).
🚕 From Capital Airport: ~40 mins by taxi (CNY 80 / PHP 640).
Perfect location for major sightseeing.
Pros & Cons of Staying in Wangfujing
✅ Pros:
✔ Central and convenient
✔ Near major landmarks
✔ Great for food and shopping
❌ Cons:
✖ Crowded and commercial
✖ High prices
✖ Not much nightlife variety
Gulou – Youthful Energy Meets Hutong History
Centered around the Drum and Bell Towers, Gulou is where old Beijing charm meets Gen Z cool. Quirky cafés, rooftop bars, vintage shops, and hutong guesthouses—this is the creative soul of the city.
Who Should Stay in Gulou?
✔ Young travelers & creatives – Hipster cafés and live music.
✔ Culture seekers – Classic Beijing alleyways.
✔ Solo travelers – Easy to meet people in hostels and bars.
❌ Luxury travelers – More indie than upscale.
❌ Business visitors – Not business-focused.
Best Hotels in Gulou
Luxury: Houhaiyuan Hotel – Trendy, stylish, and hidden in a hutong.
Mid-Range: The Qomolangma Hotel – Lively and centrally located.
Budget: Lemeng Hotel – Vibrant vibe in a central spot.
What to Do in Gulou
Best things to do in Gulou:
- 🛎️ Climb the Drum Tower – Great views over the city.
- 🎸 Catch live music – Venues like School Bar are legendary.
- 🛒 Boutique shopping – Vintage clothes, vinyl, handmade goods.
Food & Dining in Gulou
You’ll find everything from soy milk stands to artisan burgers.
- 🍜 Try zhajiangmian at Noodle Bar by Okra.
- 🍰 Chill in cafés with rooftop seating overlooking the alleys.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Nearest Subway: Guloudajie Station (Lines 2, 8).
🚕 From Capital Airport: ~45 mins by taxi (CNY 90 / PHP 720).
Walkable and well-connected.
Pros & Cons of Staying in Gulou
✅ Pros:
✔ Cool and cultural
✔ Great food, music, and shopping
✔ Authentic Beijing feel
❌ Cons:
✖ Can be noisy at night
✖ Smaller boutique stays only
✖ Can be hard to navigate with luggage
🌏 The Perfect Stay Awaits in Beijing
Beijing has a neighborhood for every kind of traveler—whether you're after historic charm near Gulou, modern luxury in Wangfujing, or family-friendly peace in Shunyi. The right base can completely shape your Beijing experience.
Now that you’ve explored where to stay, it’s time to lock in your accommodation. Book your hotel in Beijing early for the best options and deals!
Planning your trip? Compare your flight from Manila to Beijing, check the latest travel promotions, and grab an eSIM for China. Not sure when to go? See our full Beijing travel guide for things to do in Beijing.