Where to Stay in Beijing
From Wangfujing's tourist core to Sanlitun's expat east side β how to pick the right Beijing base and what to expect at check-in.
Where to base yourself
Beijing is vast, so pick your hotel by neighborhood β the metro covers every sight, but the right base saves an hour a day.
Wangfujing & Dongcheng
The classic tourist core: walk to the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square and the hutongs of Nanluoguxiang. Mid-range to upscale, busy day and night.
Sanlitun & Chaoyang
The modern, foreigner-friendly east side. Embassies, malls, bars and international restaurants cluster here. Best if you want nightlife and English menus.
Houhai & Gulou
The hutong north of the Forbidden City β courtyard hotels, lakeside walks and the old-city atmosphere. Boutique stays and hostels dominate.
Near the high-speed rail
Beijing South (Beijingnan) serves trains to Shanghai and Tianjin. Stay near it only if you have an early departure β it's functional, not charming.
Booking tips
Book international chains direct or via Trip.com using the link below. Hotels require your passport at check-in; a deposit (cash or card hold) is standard. Foreign-guest-licensed hotels are the rule β all chains and most Trip.com listings qualify.
Booking through this link may earn me a commission at no additional cost to you.
Locals' Tip
Stay in a courtyard hotel near Houhai for the old-Beijing atmosphere β you'll walk to hutong cafΓ©s and lakeside bars at night.