How to make the most of your layover in Beijing

Beijing, China’s capital, has a fascinating ancient history to explore and culture to soak up. This makes the city an exciting destination for a layover. It's known for landmarks like the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and sections of the Great Wall. Beijing is packed with sites that showcase its imperial past and cultural heritage.

Its famous hutongs (traditional alleyways) and sprawling parks give a glimpse into daily life. Areas like Wangfujing and the 798 Art District reveal the city’s contemporary, artistic side. Convenient transport connections and visa-free layovers for some travelers make it easy to explore Beijing’s highlights. Families, businesspeople, and digital nomads won't be disappointed even on a short stopover.

Things to keep in mind before leaving the airport

You're probably going through Beijing Capital International Airport if you're transiting in Beijing. It's the largest and most used airport they have. Keep reading for some key info about the airport and the rules you should know for your stay in Beijing.

Visa requirements in Beijing

Not sure if you need a visa? If you're from a visa-exempt country, you can spend 72 hours in Beijing without a visa. If you aren't, you'll have to apply for a regular 30-day visa. If your country has a diplomatic agreement with China, you could get a stamp for a 144-hour visa-free transit in the Beijing area.

Minimum layover times in Beijing

1. In-airport short layover:
2. Domestic flights: 1 hr
   If you're not leaving China, you'll probably stay in the same terminal and probably won't need extra security checks. But make sure to still leave enough time for lines and getting to a gate. Boarding closes nearly 20 minutes before take-off, so take that into account.
3. International flights: 2-3 hrs
   If you have an international flight, extra security checks like passport control are pretty common, so keep them in mind. When you get to customs, you’ll find two lanes. The red one is for those who have items to declare. If you don't, you can use the green one. A free shuttle bus can take you to and from the two terminals for your connecting flight. Also, you can't board just 20 minutes before take-off, which some people tend to overlook.
4. In-airport long layover: 4 hrs
   Feel free to do some last-minute shopping in some of the luxurious shops like Lous Vuitton, Emporio Armani, and DIOR. The themed airport lounges are public lounges where you sit back, watch some TV, and relax in a theme of your choice while your devices charge. There are also Pay Lounges, hotel-like rooms, where you and your family can rest up and take a few free showers. You can also find fun spots like the Underwater World and Starry Corridor, which have realistic projections of the ocean and sky. The many gardens near the gates and play areas for your kids are perfect for unwinding before your next flight.
5. Out-of-airport layover: 6 hrs
   Don't want to sit in an airport lounge? There are plenty of things to see at this Beijing airport, but the city has a lot more! You've also got some options for traveling to the city. Take a cab or hop on the airport shuttle bus that'll take you to Beijing South Railway Station. Check their website and choose what time works for you. If you get the 144-hour visa, you can go on a 6-day layover tour through all of Beijing.

What to do in Beijing during a layover

Looking for things to do during a Beijing layover? The city has some intriguing places to learn about China's culture, history, and art style. Before you leave Beijing Capital Airport, dump some of your extra stuff with a Bounce partner for an extra springy step. Explore Beijing with lighter feet and a wider smile.

Morning layover in Beijing

No matter what your layover duration is, it's always worth exploring the city. Take a look at our list of things you can do in Beijing in the morning hours:

1. Start your layover by exploring the Forbidden City, an imperial palace that'll give you a glimpse into China's history.
2. Tiananmen Square is one of the largest squares in the world, and it's just across the Forbidden City.
3. If you want a real blast from the past, visit the Temple of Heaven, which dates back to the Ming Dynasty.
4. Taste some traditional Peking duck at the Quanjude Roast Duck Restaurant.

Afternoon layover in Beijing

Beijing's city center has something around every corner. A few more hours in the afternoon is just what you need to soak up some more of China's culture.

1. Looking for some galleries, cafes, and shops with Chinese art? The 798 Art District has what you need!
2. If you're on a tour of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Summer Palace has a huge garden filled with lakes, pavilions, and temples.
3. Experience the fun of making Haidilao Hot Pot! Pick broths, meat, and vegetables to create the perfect combo for yourself.
4. The Noodle Loft is famous for its hand-pulled noodles and cozy vibes for a romantic sit-down.

Evening layover in Beijing

A whole-day layover is a perfect reason to leave Beijing airport and explore the city. Here are some more must-see spots in Beijing:

1. Wangfujing Street is where you can go shopping and snack on a scorpion or candied hawthorn.
2. Are you into opera? The Liyuan Theater has traditional Chinese operas that combine music, dance, and jaw-dropping acrobatics.
3. Dong Lai Shun in Wangfujing Street is where you can try some Mongolian-style hot pot.
4. Make sure to stop by Yaouji Chaogan for the liver stew. It's surprisingly scrumptious!

Overnight layover in Beijing

Glance at our list of nighttime spots to visit and places to crash after:

1. You didn’t think we’d leave out the Great Wall of China, did you? Its Mutianyu section is a great spot to check out since it’s less crowded and well-preserved.
2. Nanluoguxiang Hutong is an alley where you can get a taste of old Bejing with its shops, cafes, and bars open into the night.
3. Aerotel Beijing Capital Airport is a cheaper hotel perfect for a convenient stay during a Beijing airport layover.
4. Beijing Hotel NUO is a luxury option, perfect for a mix of modern and traditional vibes.

Tips to make the most out of your time in Beijing

Looking for some useful info about Beijing? Look no further! Here are some tips that'll prepare you for your stay in Beijing, China:

• Mandarin Chinese is the official language, but you’ll hear basic English if you need to book a room at a hotel or get some info.
• They use the Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY or RMB).
• The weekend falls on Saturday and Sunday.
• Watch out for scams in Beijing, especially with unlicensed taxis. They tend to often target tourists with inflated prices. Don't let them pressure you into getting into their vehicle.
• Accommodation will run you about 300 CNY, you can find a meal for 30 CNY, and public transportation is surprisingly cheap.

The most important tip: dump your bags with us! Find a Bounce partner near the airport or somewhere else in the city, and we'll take care of your stuff. Digital nomads don't need their laptops while exploring the city, so leave the extra weight behind and don't worry about any valuables while you explore!